The Start of Something

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Scootaloo hummed a tune aimlessly as she walked the road that lead to the White Tail Woods. Today was her first flying lesson with Rainbow Dash. 'Finally! And it only took three years for me to convince her to help me!' Scootaloo knew that Dash had become more occupied with work ever since she became the manager of the weather teams that oversaw any and all weather operations in and around Ponyville.

"I haven't seen her a whole lot lately though...I'm sure she's just been busy these last few months. She's going to be so shocked about how much I've grown." While each of the Crusaders had grown, Scootaloo was now the tallest, standing a half a head taller than both Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom (but still a few inches shorter than most ponies).

While they were both happy for the pegasus, they wished they could see the end of her boasting. However, the thing Scootaloo was most proud of was the increase in her wing size. While she knew that they too would grow with age, she was afraid that they might grow withered and useless as she got to her current age.

However, she was relieved to find that her wings grew normally (which made her estatic). She stretched them out and fluttered them slowly before closing them back against her sides. "Now let's see...She said that she'd meet me around here somewhere..."

Scootaloo scanned the air around the clearing she was in and saw a cloud lazily floating by with a small tuft of rainbow hanging off the side. "Aha! Hey, Rainbow Dash!" Instead of getting an answer, the cloud just continued to float on, with no sign that the prismatic pegasus heard her. Scootaloo puffed her cheeks out in annoyance and walked under the cloud, shouting for Rainbow Dash.

"Hey! C'mon Rainbow Dash! You promised to help me!" Scootaloo cried out, her neck starting to hurt from craning her head up to look at the cloud. So naturally, she didn't see the pony she was about to run into. "Ahh!" She shouted in alarm as she went from seeing a cloud in the blue sky, to a patch of grass on the dirt road.

"Oh my, I'm so sorry about that." Scootaloo lifted her head and saw Fluttershy sprawled out onto the ground in front of her.

"Oh, er...sorry Fluttershy. Guess my head was getting lost in the clouds again."

"It's alright." The yellow pegasus said, brushing herself off.

"Oh! Can you do me a HUGE favour?" The orange pegasus asked, her face inches away from Fluttershy's.

"Of course. What can I do for you?"

"Can you fly up to that cloud and wake up Rainbow Dash for me?"

"Is she up there? I could've swore I saw her in town before I left."

Scootaloo gave her a look of confusion before saying, "Yea, I'm pretty sure. Look, isn't that her tail hanging off the side?" Fluttershy moved her head and up Scootaloo couldn't help but stare at her fellow pegasus's neck as it moved.

"Umm...I think there's a pegasus up there, but I don't think that's Rainbow Dash. See?" Fluttershy waited for a reply, but after hearing silence, she looked down and saw Scootaloo staring intently at her. The timid pony fought the light blush that tried to jump onto her face and said. "Umm...Scootaloo?"

"Huh? Oh, sorry about that. What'd you say?"

"I said, there IS a pegasus up there, but it isn't Rainbow Dash."

"Are you sure? Cuz that looks like...her...tail..." Scootaloo looked up as she spoke, but now that the cloud had moved and she wasn't standing directly under the cloud, she could see that the tail was coloured red instead of rainbow. "Oh...hehehe..." Scootaloo chuckled sheepishly.

"What do you need her for if I may ask?" Fluttershy asked. Scootaloo's chest puffed out a little and her wings flared at her side.

"Nothing really. She's just going to teach me how to fly, that's all." Scootaloo's chest deflated a little as she heard a giggle.

"Best of luck then. Rainbow isn't exactly a nice trainer. Trust me."

"R-right. I'll keep that in mind. Now, you said you saw her in town?" Fluttershy nodded and Scootaloo turned and began running towards Ponyville. "Thanks Fluttershy!" The energetic pegasus shouted as she headed for town. Fluttershy just chuckled and continued towards her cottage home.

As soon as Scootaloo made it into town, she went to the closest pony who she thought would know of Rainbow Dash's location. "Twilight! Have you...seen...Rainbow Dash..." The young pegasus asked in between breaths.

"Huh? Oh, um...I think I saw her heading out towards Sweet Apple Acres. Why, did you need something?" Scootaloo sighed and plopped herself down onto the ground to catch her breath. When her breathing had dropped down to a more normal level, she explained that Rainbow had promised to start giving her flying lessons today. "Ahh, I see. Well, would you like to go with me to Sweet Apple Acres with me?"

"Uh...sure. But why do you need to go out there?"

The librarian smiled and helped Scootaloo up off the ground and said, "Apple Bloom took a book from the library a week ago and I need to go remind her that it'll be overdue soon."

"Can you do that? I mean, don't libraries just send a bill if a book is overdue or something?"

"Yes, but I think more for the safety of the book than the cost." Scootaloo rolled her eyes as Twilight simply grinned. As they headed out towards the workplace and home of the Apple family, the two ponies conversed on many things (most being things about Scootaloo's schoolwork). When they arrived, they both saw a rainbow blur fly past them back towards town.

"Ugh..." Scootaloo said with an irritated sigh.

"Why not just try tomorrow? She may be busy with weather preparations. If I remember right, there's going to be a storm coming later on this week."

"A storm? Just my luck..."

Twilight gently patted the younger pony's head and said, "Hey, if anything else, I'll try and get ahold of her sometime this week before the storm and tell her that she has a promise to keep, alright?"

Scootaloo nodded and said, "Thanks Twilight. Guess I'll see ya later than. Tell Apple Bloom I said hi, okay?"

"You got it." Twilight waved as Scootaloo trudged her way back towards town. "Yea...she's probably just busy and forgot is all..." The young pegasus sighed as she saw the moon creeping up over the east horizon as the sun lowered itself over the west. "Guess I should head back home." With a defeated flip of her hair, she continued towards Ponyville.

The next morning, Scootaloo was brought back to reality by a series of knocks on her door. "Coming..." She mumbled aloud, rubbing her eyes as she clambered out of bed. She was surprised at who she saw. "Mom? What're you doing here?" Scootaloo asked, moving out of the way to allow her mother entrance into her home.
The older mare was a pale yellow colour with a dull vermillion mane that curled around her neck and a tail that was cropped just below her back knees. Her cutie mark was of a ballerina shoe, showcasing her talent as a dancer (something she kept trying to pass onto Scootaloo).

"Just thought I'd come and see how my baby was doing." Scootaloo groaned as a light tinge came onto her face.

"Please mom..."

"Right, sorry hun. But how are you?"

"I'm alright. Didn't think you'd be back from vacation for at least another week."

"Me neither, but you can only do so much in Fillydelphia before you get bored." Scootaloo smiled as she watched her mom move throughout the kitchen.

"Guess that's where I get my restlessness from."

Her mom laughed aloud and said, "Must be. Celestia forbid you get something from your father." Scootaloo rolled her eyes and began to help her mother prepare breakfast.

"So tell me, did you really just want to come see how I was doing or did you just want to make me breakfast?"

Her mother just gave a sheepish smile and said, "I'm eating too." The two mares laughed and continued to cook together. As they were catching up and waiting, another knock came at the door. "My, aren't you popular today."

"Yea, and it's only twelve in the afternoon." Scootaloo said with a smile. Once again, she was surprised at who was at the door. "R-r-Rainbow Dash?!"

"The one and only!" Scootaloo had to keep her jaw closed for fear it would fall off onto the floor.

"H-how do you know where I live?" She asked, stepping aside to let her idol in.

"I asked around. Nice place ya got here Scoots." The rainbow pegasus said with a whistle, inspecting the place. "Needs a few more Wonderbolts posters...plus at least one more of yours truly."

"Y-yeah. Oh! Hey, I want you to meet someone!" Scootaloo led Rainbow into the kitchen and said, "Rainbow Dash, this is my mom Sky Dancer. Mom, this is Rainbow Dash."

"Ahh yes. My daughter speaks highly of you Ms. Dash." The mother said, shaking hooves with the cyan pegasus.

"Heh, yea. I get that a lot." Dash said with a grin. "So, you ready to begin your training Scoots?"

"Training? What training?" Sky Dancer asked, giving her daughter a look of confusion.

"Rainbow Dash is going to help me learn to fly." Sky Dancer looked at Rainbow, then back to her daughter.

"Scootaloo, if this is such a big problem to you, I can help you or-"

"No! I mean...no thank you mom. Besides, Rainbow Dash is the best flier in all of Ponyville, right?"

"Of course! And not just Ponyville, but all of Equestria!" Dash struck a pose that made her mane flow behind her head as her wings flared out.

"Er...that's...nice. Listen sweetheart, I'll talk to you later, alright?" Sky Dancer kissed Scootaloo's forehead and headed for the door.

"Wait, aren't you gonna-"

"Sorry hun, but I just remembered that I...have a haircut and I'm going to be late!" With that, the front door was closed, leaving Scootaloo alone with her hero.

"So tell me, how long have you been living on your own?"

"Not for too long. Maybe...a few months?"

"Impressive." Rainbow followed Scootaloo as she gave the older pegasus a tour of her home. Most of it was painted a dark blue with the exception of the bathroom, which was painted a cool green. "Did you paint this all yourself?"

"I had some help from my mom on some of the harder to reach spots, but yea. I pretty much redid everything. It all used to be some weird red colour and it just looked...bleh."

Dash laughed and said, "Yea, red isn't really the best colour for a house, but blue...I can dig blue."

"Heh, yea. Well...that's pretty much my house."

"Hold on...what about your bedroom?" Scootaloo couldn't stop the dark blush that rushed onto her face.

"Er...y-yea. I just uh...I figured you wouldn't want to see it. It's uh...really dirty."

Dash shrugged and said, "Can't be worse than my room. C'mon, show me." Scootaloo swallowed the lump in her throat and silently led Dash to the back where her room is.

'Okay...don't panic. Your lifelong hero and the mare you have a HUGE crush on is coming to your room...It probably won't be like that...but what if it is? What do I do!? Am I ready for this? I mean...I've dreamt about it for a long time but-' Scootaloo's thoughts were cut short as she ran face-first into her door. She heard Dash snicker, but didn't say anything. 'Okay...here goes nothing.' Scootaloo took a deep breath and opened the door.

Inside, the room was washed in a faint lavender colour from the sun peaking out over the black curtain she had over her window and reflecting off the violet walls. However, the violet had no effect on the lush green blanket that covered the queen sized bed she slept on (both were gifts from her mother). It was WAY too big for Scootaloo alone, but she didn't mind too much.

"Hmm..." Was all Scootaloo heard before Dash rushed by her and flopped down onto the bed. Scootaloo could barely keep herself from passing out at the sight in front of her. Rainbow Dash was lying on the bed on her stomach with her back legs spread, giving Scootaloo a good look (or at least it would be if Dash was a bit more...excited) of her legs and everything in between, despite the fact that everything was smooth.

The orange pegasus could feel her restraint slowly disappearing as she felt the magic around her lower parts start to fade. "Eh, this bed is nice...but it's no cloud that's for sure." Dash began to turn around, so Scootaloo bolted from the room and said, "I need to pee!" When she was safely locked in the restroom, Scootaloo sighed and simply sat on the edge of her tub.

"C'mon...go away..." She whispered at the partially exposed flesh between her legs. "Now's NOT the time for this." She mumbled angrily.

"Hey, you almost done in there?"

"Y-yea!"

"Alright. I'm gonna go eat some of those pancakes you made earlier while I wait, kay?"

"That's fine." Scootaloo sighed as she heard Dash's muffled hooves leave the hallway and go down the stairs. Thankfully, Scootaloo was able to leave the bathroom before too much time passed.

"I gotta hand it to ya Scoots...these pancakes are pretty good."

"T-thanks. My mom helped make them though, so I can't take all the credit." The younger pegasus explained as the older one devoured what little food she had left. When she finished, Rainbow washed her plate and stretched, giving a loud sigh.

"Okay squirt, ya ready for what's in store?"

"Yea! I can't wait!"

Rainbow chuckled and said, "Then let's go." On the way out of town, the two pegasi talked of various things (thought it was mostly about the Wonderbolts).

Finally, Scootaloo asked, "So...how's life going for ya?"

"Huh? What do ya mean?" Rainbow gave the younger of the two a strange look.

"I mean...like...how is your life outside of work and stuff?"

"Umm...like what?"

"Er...like...your bachelorette life? I mean, a good lookin' pegasus like you MUST get tons of guys to ask you out right?" Rainbow grinned and Scootaloo swallowed a lump in her throat.

"I see what this is about."

"Y-you do?"

"Yup." Rainbow stopped and looked at Scootaloo and said, "You like a guy, don't'cha?"

"Heh...kinda...Thought, it's more like a mare than a stallion..."

Rainbow laughed and said, "Kickin' it outside the norm huh? I like that. So, who is she? Do I know her?"

"No! I mean...I don't think so. She's been in Ponyville awhile, but she doesn't go out much."

Rainbow nodded and said, "Well, all ya gotta do is go up to her, plant a kiss right on her lips and ask if she wants to go steady." By this point, Rainbow Dash was a few inches away from Scootaloo, her eyes locking with Scootaloo's eyes and trapping her in one place.

'Her eyes are so beautiful...' Was the only thought that Scootaloo's mind could process as Rainbow's cerise eyes gazed into her pale lavender ones.

"Well, enough fooling around." The cyan pegasus said, turning away and looking up into the sky. Scootaloo rubbed her face and nodded to herself.

'Okay Scoots, keep it together.'

"Alright squirt, first things first; stretching." Rainbow began to her body and wings and all Scootaloo could do was watch in total silence. To Scootaloo, every move that Rainbow made was fluid and graceful. The way her muscles moved, the way her wings beat; everything was perfect. "Just like that. Now you try." Scootaloo snapped to attention and nodded.

'Crap...what did she do?' So, the orange mare did the first few stretches that came to mind; the most basic of all stretches.

"Great! Now then..."

When Dash had finally decided to call it quits, it was four in the morning. "Ugh...I've never been so sore." Scootaloo groaned as she kicked open the door to her home. "I hope I'll get up in time for school..." She glanced over to the table in the living room and saw papers spilling out of her saddlebags. "Crap...I have homework..."

The pegasus clambered onto the couch and began her work. While the work itself wasn't hard, it was the sheer amount that bothered her. "I'm never gonna get to bed at this rate." She growled, leering at the paper as if to make it disappear. However, when that didn't work, Scootaloo sighed and continued to work.

The next time she put her pencil down, the sun was peaking over the west horizon. The mare squinted and moved her foreleg to block her eyes from the brightness. "What time is it..." She mumbled with a tired sigh. She glanced up at the clock behind her and saw that it was six-thirty. "Ugh...." Scootaloo slammed her head down onto the table and grumbled.

It wasn't long before her stomach began to grumble with her. "Yea yea, I hear ya." The pony stumbled into the kitchen and quickly made herself a bowl of cereal. After wolfing it down and washing her bowl, she made her way upstairs and hopped into the shower. As she was washing her mane, a thought occurred to Scootaloo.

'Maybe I can just...skip school today. Hmm...no. If anypony saw me, they'd wonder why I wasn't in school and all that hassle. Ugh.' She rinsed her mane out and then hopped out, turning off the shower and drying herself off with the nearby towel. As she brushed her mane, she looked up at the small clock above the bathroom door.

It read seven-forty. "Ahh! I'm gonna be late! Oh, Burnt Oak is gonna kill me!" She threw her brush back into the bathroom before rushing downstairs to stuff everything into her saddlebags and heading for school. When she arrived, she was out of breath and her body was on fire. 'Never run when body is sore....'

She moaned inside her head. "Ahh, how nice of you to join us Scootaloo." The pony in question winced and turned to see her teacher Burnt Oak standing behind her, glaring at her.

"Er...hello Mr. Oak."

"Take your seat." Was all he said before moving past her to go to the front of the room.

"What happened? You look like you just ran a marathon." Sweetie Belle whispered.

"I'll tell you later. Where's Apple Bloom?"

"She has family coming down so she got to stay home to help with...whatever it is they're going to be doing." Scootaloo nodded and turned her attention to the board. However, she could only listen for so long before her eyes began to wander and her mind began to lose interest.

She already knew most of the material from this lesson, so she figured she'd be fine with just a small mental break. As she looked out the nearby window, she could've swore she saw a rainbow streak across the sky and loop around to begin some aerial maneuvers.

"Scootaloo! What's the answer to this problem?" The orange pegasus snapped back to attention and saw an angry stallion and a problem on the board.

"Umm...thirty-six?"

Burnt Oak's eyes narrowed into daggers as he said, "Correct, but stop looking outside. You're here to learn, not daydream." The purple maned pony sighed in relief and watched the board until school was over.

"That was a close save this morning. What were you watching anyways?"

"Thanks, and I saw Rainbow Dash flying around, practicing her tricks." Sweetie Belle smiled and rolled her eyes. Both her and Apple Bloom knew of Scootaloo's crush on the older mare and while they both thought it was adorable, they also teased her relentlessly about it.

"Well well well, if it isn't the flightless chicken of Ponyville." Both mares looked up to see a young pegasus stallion from their class, a smug look on his face as he flapped his wings.

"Well, if it isn't the biggest ego in Ponyville." Scootaloo shot back.

"Pff, nice. You stay up all night thinking that one up."

"No, you must be confusing me with yourself."

The stallion growled and said, "At least I can fly." With that, he turned and flew off.

"What a creep. Eventually you'll show him that you CAN fly, right?"

"Of course! After training with Rainbow Dash, him and every other pegasus that mocks me will be left speechless as I soar effortlessly through the air." To stress the point, Scootaloo's wings shot out from her sides and she struck a pose, making Sweetie Belle applause.

"Well, I hope the training goes well for you."

"Where're you going?"

"I'm going to spend time with Rarity today so I can't go crusading today."

"Oh, alright. That just gives me more time with Rainbow Dash."

Sweetie Belle snickered and said, "Go get'er." It took Scootaloo a moment to register what Sweetie had said before a large blush coloured her face.

"S-shut up!" This made the snickering turn to laughter. Scootaloo just glared at her friend as she continued to laugh and walk towards the Carousel Boutique, leaving Scootaloo behind. "I'll show them that it's not just infatuation..." Scootaloo turned and began to head towards the clearing that had been designated as the meeting place for her and Rainbow.

While she did love Rainbow, her friends just told her it was simply infatuation. 'She probably just loves you like a younger sister is all. I hate to be rude, but don't put too much stock into a relationship with her.' Sweetie Belle had told her once. Scootaloo frowned and stomped her hoof down, leaving a small indent in the earth.

"I'll show them too. I WILL learn to fly and I WILL be Rainbow's marefriend." With a nod, Scootaloo ran towards the edge of White Tail Woods. When she arrived, Rainbow Dash was already there, napping on a low flying cloud. "Hey! I'm here!" She heard a light snort from the cloud, then saw Rainbow's face hang over the side of a cloud, her eyes hazy and her movements slow.

"Oh, hey squirt. I'll be down in a sec." Rainbow's head disappeared and a few minutes later, she hovered down to the ground. "Alright, you ready for today's session?"

"Yes Ma'am!"

Dash chuckled and said, "I like your spirit. Alright, we'll start with stretches and pick up from yesterday." Scootaloo nodded and began to stretch. "Whoa whoa whoa, hold on there kid. We're doing different stretches today. Watch and learn." So, Scootaloo watched as Dash began to do stretches that were obviously more complex than what they had done yesterday. "Alright, now you try."

"Alright." Scootaloo made it through the first few with no problem. However, on the last few, she messed up right at the end.

She heard Rainbow sigh and say, "Close, but try again. Watch me." So, the prismatic pegasus repeated the stretches with Scootaloo doing them right along side her. However, the last two tripped her up once again, causing her to fall flat on her face.

"Can we just move on..." Scootaloo asked, spitting out a few crumbs of dirt that had found their way into her mouth.

"Nope. We're going to keep working on this until you get it. Now get up and let's try again." The orange pegasus groaned and started to repeat the stretch. It took her several more tries before she got it done the way Dash had wanted. "Great! Now as a reward, you can take a break and watch what you'll be able to do once we get you airborne."

Before Scootaloo could say anything, Dash was up into the air and flying around, showing off her moves to her one pony audience. Naturally, Scootaloo watched in awe as the older mare flew loop-de-loops with ease, or how she would drop into a dive and pull up at the last second.

'I can't WAIT until I can do that!' Her wings fluttered in excitement as Rainbow Dash preformed any and all tricks she had in her repertoire with no difficulty whatsoever. This lasted for about an hour before Dash finally came back down.

"Like what'cha see huh?" Scootaloo just nodded and before she could say anything, Rainbow Dash put her hoof under Scootaloo's chin and looked her straight in the eyes. "All you gotta do is want it and before ya know it...you'll be up there!"

Dash pushed Scootaloo's chin up and the two gazed into the pure blue sky. Scootaloo nearly fell when Rainbow suddenly removed her hoof from under Scootaloo's chin. "Now let's get back to work."

Scootaloo moaned as her sore muscles protested any movement at all. While she had managed to get away from the training at a decent time, her body still ached. "It'll all be worth it though." Scootaloo told herself as she slowly eased into the warm bath she had drawn for herself.

She winced as the warm water met her skin, but sighed happily after she was comfortably sitting in the water. As her muscles relaxed, she felt a small urge to sleep rise up. "That'd be nice...but I have homework..." She mumbled, submerging her head under the soapy water.

Scootaloo ran her hooves through her mane, getting rid of the dirt, bits of grass, and small knots that littered it after the training. She popped back up from under the water and rinsed her hair off before draining the water and drying herself off. She stretched her wings out and while it hurt, it felt good for her to get them away from her sides.

"Now to do homework." She scrubbed her mane with her towel and just left it on her head as she trotted down the stairs. Before sitting down, she headed into the kitchen to grab something to drink, then flicked on her radio. She changed the station a few times before getting down to work. Luckily for her, she had managed to finish a lot of the work in school so there wasn't too much for her this time.

However, she underestimated how little there actually was because when she had finished, it was only nine-twenty. "Huh...what do I do now?" She fell back onto the couch and looked up at her ceiling. "Maybe go for a walk..." Scootaloo suggested to nopony but herself.

After laying there for another few minutes, she got up, tossed the towel back onto the couch, and headed out the door, locking it behind her. As she walked, Scootaloo couldn't help but admire the way the moonlight illuminated the ground, buildings, everything that it touched was brought up in a faint blue glow.

'Wow...maybe I should go walking at night more often...' As the pegasus walked, she failed to notice the pegasus walking in the opposite direction, admiring the moonlit scenery in a similar manner. It wasn't long before the two bumped into each other. Scootaloo groaned for a moment and said, "Sorry about that. Wasn't really paying attention."

"No, it was my fault. Sorry." A timid voice replied. Scootaloo turned and saw Fluttershy dusting herself off.

"Fluttershy? What're you doing out at this hour?"

"I could ask you the same thing young lady." Scootaloo fought the small blush that was crawling onto her face.

"I-I'm not a young lady! I'm an adult!" The chuckle that followed didn't help the blush.

"Right, I'm sorry. But really, what are you doing? Don't you have school tomorrow?"

"Well yea, but I finished my homework early, so I figured I'd go for a calming night-time walk. What're you doing out? Don't you have animals to take care of?"

"That's actually what I was doing. Not a whole lot of animals actually live with me nowadays. So, I have to make house calls basically." Scootaloo nodded and stood there for a moment before Fluttershy spoke again. "Would you like to walk with me? A little company would be wonderful."

"Sure. It'd be nice to have somepony to talk to." As the two ponies walked in and around town, they spoke of many topics; animals, school, flying, weather, life. Just about anything was brought up and spoken about.

"So...tell me, are there any stallions in your life? You've become quite the beautiful mare." Scootaloo nearly dropped in embarrassment.

"W-well...uhh..n-not really. I mean...some are nice but most of them are jerks. But...there is a pony I really like..." Scootaloo had stopped walking by now and was drawing small circles in the dirt.

"May I ask who?" If it were possible, Scootaloo's coat would've rivaled that of Big Mac's.

"Well...it's..." The last of the sentence was lost in mumbles.

"Hmm? I didn't quite catch that." Scootaloo felt strange. Usually it was Fluttershy who would be the one who's sentences were lost in shy mumbles while Scootaloo was always ready to speak her mind.

"I said...I love...Rainbow Dash..." She expected Fluttershy to either gasp, run away, or lecture her about how it wasn't exactly normal for a mare to love another mare.

"Oh?"

"Y-yea..."

"I see. Well...I wish you the best of luck in your love life."

Scootaloo nodded and asked, "Thanks...but what about you? Surely you must have a mare or stallion in your life by now?" This time it was Fluttershy's turn to become red.

"N-no...I mean...I'm not exactly the prettiest pony and-"

"No way! You are like...one of THE prettiest mares I've ever seen! You should be able to get a lover easily!" Fluttershy's cheeks tinged pink while Scootaloo's burned dark red. "Er..."

"I'm flattered you think so, but not many ponies share your opinion."

"Well...their loss."

The yellow pegasus smiled and said, "Well...I'll talk to you later, okay?" Scootaloo gave her a look of confusion until Fluttershy pointed past her. The orange pegasus turned around and saw that they were standing in front of her house.

"Wow...Er...Thanks Fluttershy. I'll talk to ya later." The canary pegasus gave a wave and headed for her cottage home while Scootaloo went into her own home. As Scootaloo ascended her stairs, she felt...lighter. Like the whole conversation with Fluttershy had taken a weight off her shoulders. As the young pegasus crawled under her blankets and closed her eyes, she sighed happily as she drifted into the realm of dreams.

Training

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The next morning, Scootaloo jumped out of bed and hummed a light tune as she went through her usual morning routines. When she finished brushing her teeth, she headed for school, still humming.

"You're in a good mood." A southern accented voice called out behind her as she was walking. A grin appeared on Scootaloo's face as she turned and saw her fellow Crusaders.

"Hiya girls!"

"So what's got you so chipper?" Sweetie Belle asked, a smile appearing on her face as well.

"Dunno. Maybe it's just because I got a great night's sleep last night?" The other two laughed and the three quickly got into a discussion about what they were going to do this weekend. "Maybe we could go camping?"

"Pff, no way. Why not have a sleep over at my place?"

"So we can get up early and work? No thanks." Each pony had a small frown of concentration on their faces as they continued towards their school.

"Look, we'll pick this up after school." Apple Bloom said as they walked through the doors.

"Glad to see you aren't late today." The pony behind Scootaloo said. The pegasus turned and smiled.

"Thanks Silver Spoon. It feels kinda weird to actually be here before Burnt Oak."

The earth pony laughed and said, "I'm sure he'll definitely be surprised when he comes in." Scootaloo just nodded. When they were young, she couldn't STAND Silver Spoon, but it was mostly just due to Diamond Tiara's influence. Thankfully, Diamond Tiara had been transferred to a private school, allowing Silver Spoon to show her true colours and it turns out, she wasn't all that bad.

"Well well, decided to join us BEFORE the bell rang Ms. Scootaloo?"

The addressed pegasus turned with a smirk and said, "Figure I'd change it up a little." Burnt Oak rolled his eyes and took his seat at the front of the class.

"Alright, open up your books to page forty-three." Scootaloo sighed and did as she was told and as soon as she was sure Burnt Oak wasn't looking in her direction, her gaze shifted to the window. When the bell rang for lunch, the students filed outside to the picnic area and pulled various meals from their saddlebags. Of course the three Crusaders sat together and were accompanied by Silver Spoon.

As the four mares laughed and talked, a pony walked by towards the school that caught their attention. "Miss Cheerilee!" The earth pony in question stopped and smiled.

"Hello girls. Enjoying lunch?"

They all nodded and Apple Bloom said, "Yea! So what're you doin' here if ya don't mind mah askin'?"

"Oh I just came to talk with Mr. Oak."

"Ooh! What about?" Sweetie Belle asked, curiosity burning her her olive eyes.

"Nothing too serious as I'm sure you're assuming Sweetie." The unicorn fought the light blush that came onto her face and Cheerilee continued. "I just wanted to talk to him about teaching and all and to tell him that his daughter is doing just fine. Well, I'll let you girls get back to your lunch." The girls all waved to their former teacher and went back to their lunches.

About twenty minutes later, the stallion called them back inside to continue their lessons. It didn't take long before the final bell rang and all the ponies ran out the door. Scootaloo walked out alongside her friends, but they didn't make it very far before Burnt Oak called after them. "Excuse me girls, but may I talk to Scootaloo for a moment?"

The other Crusaders looked at their pegasus friend with concern in their eyes, but Scootaloo waved it away and said, "Don't worry, he probably just wants to get on my case about how I keep staring out the window. It won't take long." They nodded and waited as Scootaloo ran back to the schoolhouse. "Yes Burnt Oak?" The stallion looked at her and held up a paper.

"Do you know what this is?" The pegasus took a closer look and saw that it was yesterdays assignment, one that she had apparently gotten a perfect grade on.

"Umm...that's yesterday's writing assignment?"

"Yes. Now, I have a serious question to ask you." He took a breath and lowered the paper. "You're a brilliant student and hardly ever get lower than an A- on anything so I must ask...why don't you apply to finish early? You have the knowledge, so why do you insist on staying and looking out the window when you could actually be out there doing something?" Scootaloo was silent for a moment before laughing.

"I appreciate the concern and I'm flattered you think I'm so smart...but I can't just leave my friends behind, ya know? If I finished early, then I'd feel bad because they'd still be here. Besides, school doesn't bother me TOO much and while I don't learn much from our books anymore, I still learn a lot from you Mr. Oak."

The stallion chuckled and sighed. It was in that moment Scootaloo could see the age on the older pony's face. While he wasn't old enough to have grey hair, time had definitely taken it's toll on him. He had told the class once that he used to live in Hoofington where the children were much more rambunctious than any children he had ever seen.

Eventually he found the love of his life and moved to Ponyville where he begun teaching the ponies after elementary. He looked up and said, "Very well then. But promise me one thing: that you look at the board a little more than out the window?"

Scootaloo smiled and said, "I'll see what I can do." The stallion laughed lightly and said, "Alright, go on. Out with ya." He gestured his hooves into a "shooing" motion and the pegasus headed back out.

"So what'd he want?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"I was right. He just complained about my staring out the window." Scootaloo felt a little bad whenever she lied like this. Her friends didn't really know the extent of her intelligence, so it hurt the pegasus whenever her friends struggled in school. However, she knew that if Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle actually knew how smart she was, they'd push her to graduate early, just like Burnt Oak.

While they meant well, Scootaloo wanted to spend as much time with her friends as possible. As the trio was arriving in town, a voice called out to Scootaloo. "Hey Scoots!" The orange pegasus turned and grinned.

"Hi Rainbow Dash!"

The cyan pegasus landed in front of the girls and said, "You ready for some serious training this weekend?" Scootaloo frowned and looked back her friends.

"Well...I kinda had plans this weekend..."

Dash frowned and said, "So you DON'T want to learn from the best huh?"

"No! I mean, I do! But don't you sleep until sometime in the afternoon anyways? I could just meet you later in the day right?"

"Nope. Besides, I have to get up on weekends to work so I'll be up and ready by ten when my work is done." Scootaloo sighed and turned to her friends, an apology forming in her eyes. While she could see the unhappiness Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle hid behind their eyes, she also saw their smiles.

"Go ahead. Besides, it'll be worth it to see those other pegasus ponies in our class struck speechless by your flying skills." Sweetie Belle just nodded and said,

"What she said!" Scootaloo grinned and hugged her friends.

"Thanks girls. I'll make ya proud!" The earth pony and unicorn continued their walk as Rainbow grinned at the slightly smaller pegasus.

"Ya ready squirt?" Scootaloo nodded and with that, Dash took off with Scootaloo running on the ground behind her. When they arrived at their usual spot, Scootaloo was surprised to find camping supplies.

"What's all this for?"

"We're going to be staying out here all weekend to work on your training." The orange pony's jaw dropped.

"B-but I can't stay out here ALL weekend! I have to work Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon."

Rainbow waved away the concerns and said, "You'll have plenty of time to work for weather management once we get you off the ground. And to make up for it, I'll give you a raise right from the get go. You'll be making as much as the ponies who've been working there for two months!" Scootaloo's frown quickly flipped itself on her face and she nodded.

"Alright then! Let's get started!" The purple maned pony said, pawing at the ground in eager anticipation.

"Slow down there Scoots. We gotta stretch first." Scootaloo nodded and awaited further instruction.

~~~

That night, Scootaloo wished she had never been born a pegasus. Her whole body ached to the sudden rigorous training that she was undergoing, and her wings were no better. By the time Dash had suggested stopping for the night, Scootaloo was surprised that she hadn't dropped from exhaustion before then.

"Gotta say, you're making progress...but not decent progress. Ya gotta step it up a little Scoots or it's going to take even LONGER!" The rainbow maned pony sighed in exasperation and said, "Be ready to rise real early. We've got a lot to get done tomorrow, and I don't wanna see you slackin' just because you're tired."

With that, Rainbow Dash stretched and yawned. "I'm gonna hit the hay now. Don't wait too long." Scootaloo could've swore she saw Dash wink as she headed into the tent. The simple thought of what that wink could mean sent Scootaloo's face from orange to red in ten seconds flat. She shook the thought from her head and thought, 'Though...maybe it IS time I start my advances...'

Scootaloo waited a little longer until she heard the tell-tell signs of the prismatic pony's slumber. "Geez...even though it's been a good six years, she still snores like that?" Scootaloo remembered the last time she had been camping with Rainbow and while the experience was harrowing, she was able to come out on top...for the most part.

Despite the fact that Dash had promised to take Scootaloo under her wings, the orange pony barely saw the older flier after that. Whenever confronted, Rainbow would shrug and say, "I've been busy. Sorry kid." Scootaloo sighed and gave a light stretch, resisting the urge to hiss in pain before joining Rainbow in the tent. However, the sight that greeted her made the younger pony freeze.

Dash had rolled from her side of the tent to being sprawled out in the middle, her legs far apart and slightly twitchy as the cyan pegasus slept. What Scootaloo wouldn't give for Rainbow to be awake and beckoning her to lay down on her muscular pegasine body. 'Maybe...maybe I could just lay on her for a second...see what it feels like.'

Slowly, Scootaloo moved over her crush and stared down at the sleeping pegasus. Then, she began to descend with antagonizingly slow speed. Every small twitch of the face or meager shifting of a hoof made Scootaloo freeze until complete stillness (or at least as close to stillness as Rainbow could be) retook the prismatic pony before she dared move again.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, contact was made. Scootaloo shivered as she lowered herself onto the elder flier; the way Rainbow's coat brushed against her own, the way Scootaloo could practically feel the way Rainbow's body adjusted to accommodate the weight placed on top of it.

Scootaloo sighed in bliss as she laid there on her crush without a care in the world. However, a sudden shift nearly made the orange pony gasp and before she knew it, she was being nuzzled by Rainbow Dash, who had rolled onto her side and pulled Scootaloo into an embrace, much like a filly would with favourite toy and mumbled incoherently.

'WhatdoIdo whatdoIdo whatdoIdo?!' Panic washed over Scootaloo as the worst case scenarios played out in her mind at what would happen when the weather manager would say and do when she woke up with Scootaloo in her hooves.

'Calm down Scoots! This is what you've been dreaming of! Well...kinda. Take this opportunity and just enjoy it.' Scootaloo smiled and closed her eyes, even going so far as to snuggle a little closer to her secret lover and was asleep in minutes.

~~~

When Rainbow Dash woke up, she was surprised to say the least. In her hooves was a content Scootaloo, ready to just sleep the day away in the comfort of the tent and in Rainbow's sleep-induced embrace. 'Huh...she looks pretty happy. Almost blissful....wait...no way. I'm the one she's crushing on, aren't I?' As if to answer, Scootaloo sighed happily and nuzzled Rainbow's chest.

The prismatic pegasus grinned and thought, 'I'm flattered. Maybe I can help her by using this.' While Rainbow felt a little bad about using her fellow pegasus's emotions, she figured that if Scootaloo could come out on top, she'd reward the little pony. "Well well well, what do we have here?" Dash asked in a fake surprised voice.

Scoots jolted awake and began to stammer, "Y-you grabbed me a-and-" Dash burst into laughed and released the orange pony.

"No need to be embarrassed. Tons of ponies want to say they've slept in my hooves and not a whole lot of them were as cute as you Scoots. So get up and get ready, cuz we've got a whole day ahead of us." Rainbow stood and walked out, giving her rump a light swing as she walked out, feeling Scootaloo's gaze burning into her.

When the tent flap closed, it took all the willpower in the orange pony's body not to shout and jump for joy. 'Alright, now I just have to keep this up and soon, Rainbow Dash will be mine!' Scootaloo let out a triumphant puff of air from her nostrils and she rushed outside and saw that Dash was already in the air, pulling off advanced aerial maneuvers that Scootaloo knew were only warm-ups to the flying pegasus.

The orange pegasus lifted her wings away from her side and flapped them a few times to get them ready for the grueling task that was to come. Sure enough, there was much soreness that followed the tough training regime of the weather manager of Ponyville and Scootaloo wondered if this was such a good idea. During several points of the training, Scootaloo honestly thought she was going do die.

However, Rainbow always swooped in and helped, right at the last second. Finally, the duo took a break for lunch. Scootaloo collapsed on the ground and looked for a picnic basket or something to provide nourishment. "How...are we gonna have lunch...if there is none?" The orange pony asked in between deep breaths that felt good at the slight expense that her chest felt like it was on fire every time she took a breath.

"Give it a minute." Sure enough, after a few moments passed, a yellow dot began to approach. "Ahh! There's our meal." Rainbow said, rubbing her stomach as thoughts of food filled her mind. As the dot drew closer, Scootaloo squinted and saw that it was Fluttershy, carrying a small basket no doubt filled with delicious homemade food. Just the thought of Fluttershy's cooking made the young pegasus's stomach growl in anticipation.

Scootaloo had tried some food made by the canary yellow pegasus a few years back and had never forgot the taste. "Hey Flutters! Just in time." Dash said, meeting her friend halfway to snatch the food and quickly dig in after landing beside the youngest of the group.

"Oh, don't eat too fast. You'll get the hiccups and you know as well as I do that flying is much harder with hiccups." Rainbow waved a hoof in acknowledgment while continuing to wolf down the food. Fluttershy then moved her concern from Rainbow to Scootaloo, who had yet to move from her spot to eat. "Are you okay?" Fluttershy asked, helping the orange pegasus to her hooves.

"Yea. Just doing what I gotta do, ya know?" Scoots gave a small smile before heading to the basket to get some food before Dash devoured it all. The three pegasi sat around and enjoyed the lunch that Fluttershy brought, all while Dash moved between eating and bragging about her skills.

Finally, with an abrupt clap of her hooves, Rainbow said, "Alright Scoots, let's get back to work." Scootaloo sighed and stood up, giving herself a light stretch. "Care to see how a pro teaches Flutters?" The pegasus in question chuckled lightly and gave her answer by staying put. "Alright Scootaloo, let's get back to it."

So, Fluttershy watched as her fellow pegasus ponies went through the stretches taught in Cloudsdale Flight Camp. However, at one part, Rainbow Dash smiled and said, "Alright squirt, now for the next test...we're gonna practice on clouds!" Before Scootaloo could say anything, Dash flew up and began to gather clouds for a suitable practice ground.

The orange pegasus swallowed several lumps in her throat as the cloud landing got bigger and bigger. Scoots nearly screamed when she felt a hoof on her shoulder. She turned and saw Fluttershy standing beside her, a warm smile on her face. "It'll be okay." Scootaloo felt immense relief rush through her veins at the words and she relaxed against the hoof on her shoulder.

The relief was short lived. Dash dropped down in front of Fluttershy and Scootaloo and the youngest stiffened as she was suddenly torn away from the comforting hoof and brought into the sky. Of course, she didn't make any motion that she was scared at the prospect of being placed on a cloud. While she knew that it would hold her, it was a whole new experience for her since she'd spent her whole life on the ground. "Ready?"

"Y-yes!" With that, Dash let go and Scootaloo held the scream that was building up in her throat back with sheer willpower. When she hit the cloud, she gave a surprised gasp as all the built-up air was forced from her lungs. 'Wow...clouds are harder than I thought...' she absently thought as she struggled to get her air back.

"Heh, yea. Clouds'll do that to ya the first time ya hit'em that hard." Scootaloo coughed for a moment before standing wearily on her hooves, lightly tapping the clouds as if to make sure it would actually hold her. Dash of course couldn't help but laugh at the younger pegasus's hesitance.

"Don't laugh Rainbow. She's never been on a cloud before." Fluttershy's timid voice called out before she actually appeared over the lip of the cloud.

"Well she's gotta learn somehow and since she can't actually fly yet, this is the next best thing. Besides, she's fine, right Scoots?"

"R-right! I'm not a-afraid!"

"See!" Rainbow asked, her chest puffed up in pride. Though Fluttershy could see otherwise. Even though Scootaloo was smiling and had her chest puffed out as well, Fluttershy could see the quivering knees that Scootaloo stood on.

'Poor girl...' Was all Fluttershy could think. So, once again Fluttershy sat while the other two flier ponies worked on training. Several times, Scootaloo locked up when she thought she was going to plunge through the fluffy mass or when she would've normally went tumbling over the edge.

Dash sighed and said, "Ugh, c'mon Scoots! You're never gonna get anywhere if you aren't afraid to fall."

"Easy for you to say! All you have to do is spread your wings and you'll be fine!"

Rainbow frowned and said, "Yea yea, get back to training." before flying off to practice her own moves. Scootaloo sighed and went back to what she had been learning. Eventually, Fluttershy bid them both a farewell, promising to come back tomorrow and bring lunch.

As she walked by Scootaloo, she whispered, "I believe in you." Scootaloo looked up and into Fluttershy's eyes and saw only truth.

"Really?"

"Mhmm. I know you'll get it soon." With a wink, Fluttershy opened her wings and gently glided down to the plains below before heading for home. It wasn't until another four hours that Dash landed back on the cloud mass and yawned.

"Alright kid, that's enough for today. We'll pick back up on this tomorrow." Scootaloo stood and waited, staring at Rainbow Dash.

"What?"

"Aren't you gonna fly us back down?" The grin that appeared on Rainbow's face scared Scootaloo.

"Nope. Tonight, we're sleepin' up here."

"On the cloud?!"

"Yup! It'll be great conditioning to get you used to using clouds. Trust me, you'll be fine." Then, the seasoned flier plopped down, nuzzled a small patch of cloud, and closed her eyes.

"B-but what about our tent and stuff? Don't you think somepony could steal it?"

"Nope. I took it back to Pinkie earlier today when you were training. Now quit your belly aching and get some sleep." It wasn't even a minute later that Dash was snoring. Scootaloo sighed and moved on the opposite side of the cloudmass and covered her head with cloud.

"Well...at least it cancels out the snoring..." She said with a small smile. It took awhile, but eventually Scootaloo found sleep. Sadly, all night she was plagued by a nightmare of her, endlessly falling to some unknown doom that awaited her. She screamed and screamed until her throat was dry and raw from the air rushing into and out of it as she plummeted.

She tried opening and flapping her wings, but discovered that they were tattered and useless, whipping around behind her as the wind pulled them every which way. 'I'm going to die!' She thought over and over as she continued to fall. Finally, Scootaloo's eyes widened as she saw the ground rushing up to meet her, with jagged rocks acting as a wicked grin with which to impale her on and tear her apart.

"No...NO!" Then, right before she was torn asunder, she woke up. Scootaloo threw herself away from where she had been sleeping, nearly falling over the edge and reenacting the dream. Cold sweat poured down her body as she pushed her wings open and felt them, making sure they were intact and useable. She breathed heavily for awhile and knew that there was no way that she'd be returning to sleep. So, she sat near the edge (but not close enough that she could peer over it) and awaited Celestia's sunrise.

~~~

When Rainbow Dash finally woke up, Scootaloo had nearly drifted back to sleep. "Heh, eager to get started huh?" The sudden noise after not hearing anything for hours caused Scootaloo to cry out and jump. Dash naturally laughed as Scootaloo shivered in both fear and anger.

"I could've fallen to my death!" Scootaloo shouted.

"You would've been fine. I would've swooped in and saved the day like always. Now, let's get to work." Scootaloo was aghast at how easily Rainbow Dash shrugged away her fear and it made the orange pegasus's blood boil. However, instead of acting on her rage, she swallowed it and just glared at Dash whenever the older pony wasn't looking.

Normally, Scootaloo would've let loose with a barrage of insults, even if it was to her idol, but no matter how she looked at it, it would have been a loss. There was nothing Scootaloo could do short of jumping off and hoping she flew if Dash left her there, and that was a scenario that Scoots never wanted to think could or would happen. So, she simply seethed silently as she stretched and went through the hoops Dash had her jump through.

Thankfully, Rainbow ordered a lunch break and Scootaloo dropped, breathing heavily. 'Who knew anger could motivate so well...' The orange pony thought as she awaited the arrival of the third pegasus. As she waited, she watched Dash soar through the air effortlessly and couldn't help but let the rage slip away and be replaced with awe and admiration.

'What was I so angry for? She obviously cares enough to save me. I mean...she'd save anypony in trouble, but still.' She sighed happily as she continued to watch the older pegasus strut her aerial stuff. Finally, a timid voice called out and Scootaloo smiled.

"Umm, hello?"

"We're still up here Fluttershy!" Dash yelled, doing a flip before landing on the cloud beside Scootaloo. Seconds later, the yellow pegasus of Kindness landed with a basket in her mouth and both Scootaloo and Dash wondered what kind of delicious treats were inside. "Thanks 'Shy!" Dash rushed forward and took the basket and just like the day before, dove into the food that lie inside the basket.

"How're you doing today Scootaloo?" Fluttershy asked, sitting down beside the prone pegasus.

"Not too bad. Still really sore, but that was expected. How're you?"

"Oh, I'm not too bad. You may want to get over and get something or else Rainbow Dash might eat it all." Scootaloo chuckled and with a little help from Fluttershy, managed to get onto her hooves and get to the basket. When Dash had finished, she immediately headed into the sky to work off what she had eaten while Scootaloo finished up what was left.

"She isn't being too hard on you, is she?"

"Huh? Oh, nah. I mean, it's rough, but it has to be." Scootaloo said, taking a sip of the juice box she had found.

"True, but it doesn't have to be TOO rough." Fluttershy replied, watching Rainbow fly with her eyes. Scoots simply shrugged and continued eating. It wasn't until she was halfway finished with a sandwich that she realized that Fluttershy was staring rather intensely at her.

"Umm...is there something on my face?"

"Did you get a good night's rest last night?"

"Eh? Where'd that come from?"

"Well...it's just that you have somewhat bloodshot eyes and there are bags starting to form under your eyes." Scootaloo felt under her eyes before she answered.

"Well...It wasn't the greatest night of sleep I've had."

Fluttershy nodded and said, "You should really try to get more rest. It may hurt you later if you don't."

"Kinda hard to go back to sleep when you have a nightmare..." Scootaloo whispered. Before Fluttershy could ask what the nightmare was about, Dash called out to Scootaloo, chastising the young pegasus for sitting around longer than needed. "Guess I better get back to it." Scootaloo walked away to the other side of the cloudmass and began her training anew. As dusk approached, Fluttershy managed to get Rainbow's attention.

"Perhaps I should take her home..." The concerned mare looked over to Scootaloo and saw that the pony could barely stand, let alone keep her eyes open as she forced air into her lungs.

"Huh? Why?"

"She has school tomorrow and she needs her rest. Plus, she may have homework that needs finished."

Dash frowned and said, "But this is WAY more important than that stuff." Fluttershy furrowed her brow and turned to stare at Rainbow.

"No, it isn't." Dash felt a light quiver go through her as her life-long friend turned her angry gaze on her. Rainbow had seen Fluttershy glare at some ponies, and even had seen her use The Stare, but this was entirely different. It was if she were gripping Dash's very soul and twisting it to her will in the most non-painful way possible and making Dash submit, despite Rainbow's competitive nature.

'I'm glad looks alone can't kill a pony.' Dash thought in fear. However, she couldn't allow herself to look afraid, so to save face she nodded and said, "Yea...alright. Scoots! When's your next break from school?"

The pony in question snapped her head up as if she had been napping and said, "Huh? Oh...um...after this coming week, we have Spring Break so we'll have a whole two weeks off."

"Then that's when we'll pick up." With that, Dash flew off, trying to shake the fear that remained from Fluttershy's glare. When Rainbow Dash had disappeared completely from sight, Fluttershy sighed and dropped the angry look and instead turned it to one of concern as she walked over to Scootaloo.

"Poor dear..." Scootaloo looked as if she had flown through several tornadoes at night during a new moon; her mane was dishevled and sticking up everywhere, her whole body shook as her muscles fought to keep her standing, her breathing had lightened somewhat but she was still panting.

"C'mon. Let's get you home." Fluttershy knelt and took Scootaloo onto her back and carefully opened her wings, then began to glide towards Ponyville, occasionally flapping her wings. When she had arrived, Scootaloo had completely passed out on her back. Fluttershy chuckled quietly and thought, 'She's quite adorable when she's sleeping.'

The yellow pony opened the door and carried the younger mare upstairs to where she thought her room was and after opening several doors, Fluttershy managed to find it. With the skill of a mother, Fluttershy tucked in Scootaloo and brushed her lips against the young pony's forehead, drawing a happy sigh from the orange mare. Fluttershy smiled warmly and walked out, quietly closing the door behind her.

Work and A Sudden Decision

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When Scootaloo woke up, she hesitated to open her eyes. 'Maybe I can just lay here and sleep in...' was her first thought. However, as time rolled on, she felt herself becoming restless, despite the soreness that throbbed over her whole body.

Slowly, the young pegasus cracked an eye open and her first sight was her clock. 'Nine twenty-two? Wait...' Scootaloo's mind began to work faster as she became more awake and aware. "Crap! I'm late for school!" She attempted to leap out of her bed, but ended up getting caught in her blanket and falling to the floor with little grace. "Ow..."

The light throbbing had intensified after getting acquainted with the floor and Scootaloo grumbled quietly as she kicked the blanket off of her. After getting it off, the orange pegasus heard hoofsteps coming up the stairs. "Who-" She was cut off as the door opened and revealed the yellow animal care-giver.

"Are you alright? That sounded like quite the fall."

"Nothing I can't handle." Scootaloo said with a prideful grin and a slapping of her hoof on her chest. "Ahh..." The action brought along a fresh wave of pain and Scootaloo hissed. "Anyways...I gotta get to school. I'm WAY late!"

The orange pony attempted to walk past Fluttershy, but the older pony put a gentle hoof on her younger counterpart's chest and said, "It's alright. I already went and talked to your teacher. He gave me all the homework you'd have for today and wishes you recover soon." Scootaloo stopped and gawked at Fluttershy.

"R-really?"

Fluttershy nodded and said, "I figured that Rainbow Dash probably over-worked you, so I knew that you'd need a full day's worth of recovery."

"Wow...thanks Fluttershy."

The pegasus in question smiled warmly and said, "You're quite welcome. Now, whenever you're ready, I made you some breakfast." With that, the pink maned pony turned and left the room, pulling the door shut behind her.

"Wow...am I still dreaming? A day off from school to relax and a cute pegasus to care for me?" A dark blush ran up to Scootaloo's face as she finished the last sentence. "I mean a CARING pegasus. Yea...caring." She shook her head and headed out, holding in her breath as every step caused small waves of pain to rush up from her hooves. "I really need this break..."

After slowly making her way downstairs, Scootaloo headed into the kitchen to see Fluttershy humming as she made pancakes. "Wow...this looks amazing!" The orange flier said, getting herself into a chair and staring at the pancakes already made for her.

"Oh, thank you Scootaloo. A full tummy helps with the recovery. Plus, I couldn't have you complaining as we begin your light therapy."

"Therapy?" Scootaloo asked in confusion as she took a bite of the pancake (which was blueberry).

"Mhmm. If you overwork yourself, your muscles seize up and becoming restrictive due to all the acidic buildup. So, we have to ease them back to normal. While your body would do this anyway, I'm afraid it'd take more than an afternoon's worth of rest to fix it since she worked you so hard." Scootaloo nearly gagged at the sentence that left Fluttershy's mouth, a large blush showing on her face. "Are the pancakes too hot? I'm sorry."

"N-no, they're fine. I'm just a little hot is all." Scootaloo quickly went back to eating so to avoid further conversation. Fluttershy looked over her with concern before turning back to her own pancakes. As Scoots finished up her food, she looked up at Fluttershy, who had since sat down to eat her own food and asked, "Is it alright if I go take a warm bath?"

Much to her surprise, Fluttershy shook her head and said, "Not yet. If you bathe before your therapy, you'll be too tired to actually do it since the warm water will coax you to sleep. Sorry."

"It's alright. Guess I'll go...sit in the living room while I wait." Fluttershy nodded and continued eating. Scootaloo hadn't been sitting for more than two minutes before Fluttershy joined her.

"Alright, please lay down on your stomach." Scootaloo nodded and did as she was told, stretching her hooves out. She shivered lightly when she felt Fluttershy's hooves press down and began to massage and kneed the muscles that lay under her skin. Apart from the occasional sharp intakes of pained air, Scootaloo felt rather relaxed under the hooves of the care-taker.

"You should do this for a living. I'm sure Aloe and Lotus would love to have you work with them." Scootaloo said as Fluttershy was working with a particularly bad knot between Scootaloo's wings.

Fluttershy chuckled and said, "They've actually offered a job a few times...but I don't know. Working on ponies that I don't know seems kind of...strange for me."

"Ahh, because of your shyness?" Scootaloo didn't have to turn to know the older pony was nodding.

"Alright, how're you feeling?"

"Amazing!" Scootaloo went to stand, but she was held in place by a tender hoof.

"Now hold on. I still have some spots to cover, including your wings."

"Oh...alright." Scootaloo didn't know how to feel about another pony (other than her mother) touching her wings. Many pegasi didn't allow other ponies to touch their wings; including other pegasi. Unless of course the pony in question was special, usually only found in pegasus who were in a relationship.

As Scootaloo started to become lost in thought, she was quickly brought back to reality as she felt hooves skim over her flanks. Her head shot up and (despite the pain) turned her blushing face around to look at Fluttershy. "Hmm?"

"N-nothing." Scoots turned back around and laid back down, ignoring the heat in her face.

"Sorry if this makes you feel uncomfortable."

"It's alright. I just wasn't expecting you to massage my flanks and back legs is all." A light giggle was all Scootaloo heard as Fluttershy continued her work. Finally, Scootaloo felt Fluttershy's hooves hover near her wings.

"May I?"

"Mhmm." As soon as the lightest touch was felt, Scootaloo's body shivered in delight.

"Are you alright?"

"Y-yea. I just haven't ever had another pony touch my wings is all. It feels...strange. In a nice way I mean." Scootaloo heard nothing but instead was answered with actions. She felt the careful hooves of the older pony work on her wings and Scootaloo could've died at the moment and would've been perfectly content.

'Is this what it's like when you don't do it yourself? This is amazing! Plus, she's a pegasus herself so she definitely knows what she's doing. I bet doing this with Dash would be phenomenal!' Scootaloo thought happily. A strong shiver went through her body, as well as a wave of heat as she felt Fluttershy begin to preen her wings as well. "W-what are you doing?!" Scootaloo asked quickly, hoping to stop the older pony.

"I'm sorry...your wings just looked a little...haphazard so I thought I'd help and preen them for you."

"And I thank you but that's something I'd rather do myself." Scootaloo turned and was ready to apologize but saw Fluttershy nodding.

"I understand. You've never let another pony touch your wings so I imagine that it's a little...heated for you." Scootaloo had never blushed harder in her life as the implications of Fluttershy's words hit her. She saw that the yellow pony also had a blush on her face. "Sorry."

"I-it's fine. I'm uh...I'm gonna go take that shower now."

"Of course. I think I'll just go now. Hope you feel better." With that, Fluttershy turned to walk out and Scootaloo began her trek up the stairs, noticing that it was much easier and less painful to do so. However, a gasp and the sound of breaking glass made her rush back downstairs.

"What's wrong?" Scootaloo asked, surveying the scene. Fluttershy was standing next to a small corner stand, holding a frightened mouse in her hooves while a picture was face down on the floor, shards of glass littering the ground.

"I'm so sorry Scootaloo. I was going to leave but this poor little mousey bumped into the stand and the picture almost crushed him." Fluttershy explained as Scootaloo picked up the picture. The young pegasus's eyes glazed over for a moment as she stared at the picture. On it, Scootaloo's mom and Scootaloo displayed happy faces, despite the hidden pain in their eyes.

The rest of the picture was torn off. "Who else was in the picture?" A curious Fluttershy asked, looking at the picture as Scootaloo replaced it.

"My dad." Scootaloo's eyes hardened at the mention of her father figure, but said nothing else as she began to scoop up the glass to throw away.

"Oh...is he-"

"Gone? Yes, he is. Dead? Unfortunately not."

The expected gasp came and Fluttershy said, "What a terrible thing to say!"

Scootaloo turned and was about to scream, but after seeing the look of fear in Fluttershy's eyes, took a deep breath and said, "Sorry...but he's a bad pony."

"There's no such thing as a bad pony; only a pony who has made bad decisions." Scootaloo snorted and tossed the glass away.

"Then he made some pretty bad decisions." Before Fluttershy could ask what they were, Scootaloo said, "And no, I really don't want to talk about it. Now if you excuse me..." The orange pony walked past Fluttershy with cold eyes as she made her way back upstairs.

'I wonder what he did...' Fluttershy thought as she exited the house. 'It's really none of my business though.' With a sigh, the timid pegasus began her trek home.

Scootaloo sat in the warm water of her tub, a blank look on her face, but fury in her eyes. "Why can't you just stay gone?" She said, splashing her hoof down on her reflection, distorting it and subsequently splashing Scootaloo's face.

The mare sighed and continued to wash her body while trying to rid her mind of the resurfacing memories of her father. When she finished, she dried off and watched the water drain, swirling into the pipes. "Just like you." She said with a bitter tone. Scootaloo made her way back downstairs and into the kitchen to get a glass of juice.

However, halfway through the cup, she sighed. "I need to get my mind off of it...maybe I should go over to Roseluck's and explain why I wasn't there this weekend, maybe do some work to make up for it." Her plan set, the orange pegasus left her home and headed for the flower shop.

When she entered, the bell above the door jingled and a moment later, a very pale yellow pony with a mane and tail of two shades of red appeared behind the counter. "Oh, hiya Scoots. What can I do for ya?"

"I wanted to apologize for not coming to work this week-end. I was with training with Rainbow Dash so I could fly."

The earth pony chuckled and said, "And what, leave us down here on the ground? You wound me Scootaloo. But seriously, it's alright. I had Daisy cover your shifts, so you owe her. Go talk to her whenever you can and see when you can work for her."

"Alright. Is she here?"

"Actually, she is. She should be in the back with Lily." Scootaloo thanked the store manager and headed into the back. She was immediately swept away in the menagerie of scents that flowed into her nostrils. To most ponies, it would've been overwhelming and cause them to turn back.

To Scootaloo and the Flower Trio (as many ponies liked to call them), it was a step into a sort of paradise. Here among the many flowers, there was a strange sense of tranquility that could hardly been found anywhere in Ponyville. Roses, lilac, lavender, rosemary, tulips; all sorts of different flowers asked for attention with their colour and smells.

If Scootaloo wasn't on a mission, she would've stopped to smell some (and maybe take a small nibble on a few). However, the sound of laughter caused Scootaloo to move a little faster. In the back by the azaleas, she found Daisy and Lily, laughing over something only they knew. "Well well, what's up squirt?"

"Hey! I'm almost as big as you are!"

"Almost being the key word there." Scootaloo smiled and Daisy continued to speak. "So what's up?"

"I came to thank you for taking my shifts this weekend. I was preoccupied with learning to fly."

Daisy nodded and said, "Well...I was gonna chew you out, but I guess flying IS pretty important to a pegasus, so I forgive you...this time." The pony moved and ruffled Scootaloo's mane.

"And here I was about to ask you when I could work for you, but since you messed up my perfect mane..." Scootaloo teased, lightly combing her mane down.

Lily laughed and said, "Guess that means I'll have more time with Daisy here. Whatever shall I do?"

Daisy grinned and turned to her fellow pony and said, "I can think of a few things." before leaning in and kissing Lily. Scootaloo smiled and coughed into her hoof, breaking the two apart.

"Well, if you're serious...you can take my Wednesday and...Friday shifts. That sound good?" Scoots nodded and Daisy gave her a light pat on the head. "Good girl. Now run along before I snip at'cha!"

Scootaloo laughed and said, "Alright, grandma." Daisy's jaw dropped while Lily dropped to the floor in laughter. "What? You brought it upon yourself." Scootaloo explained as she headed back for the front.

As soon as Scootaloo crossed the threshold, Roseluck asked, "I take it from Lily's laughing that Daisy set herself up again?"

"Naturally." The two chuckled and Scootaloo told the florist when she'd be taking Daisy's shifts.

"Sounds good to me."

"Also, I was wondering if I could do some work today. That is, if you don't mind." Roseluck put a hoof to her chin in thought before speaking.

"Well...I SUPPOSE you could do some work. We've got a couple of deliveries that need taken care of. When you're done with those, come back and I'm sure I'll have some more for ya."

"Thanks Roseluck." The red-maned mare just waved the thanks away and went into the back to chew out the two other flower ponies for not working. After Scootaloo went home to pick up her scooter, she quickly stopped back by the shop, grabbed the deliveries and headed out.

Since Scootaloo had been all over town many times on her scooter, the mare knew the layout of the town like the back of her hoof as she expertly made her way to each destination. She usually took shortcuts and moved quicker, but today, Scootaloo decided to take it slow and made her way from place to place at a relaxed speed.

'It's almost weird...Ponyville looks...different at this speed.' The orange pony thought as she headed back to the flower shop. She parked her scooter outside and headed in.

"Wow...that actually took longer than it usually does. You not feelin' good?"

"Actually...I'm feeling really good. That massage really did wonders for me." Roseluck rose an eyebrow in questioning and Scootaloo made sure the other two ponies weren't around before speaking. "Yea. Rainbow Dash over-worked me while training- and yes, I got the same reaction-" Scootaloo had to stop and explain while Roseluck just snickered.

"So apparently, Fluttershy carried me all the way home and even stayed the night to help me this morning. When I got up, I was really sore and she gave me a massage or some kind of physical therapy, and I gotta say...I haven't felt this good in a long time."

"Well, it definitely shows I can tell ya that. You sure you don't like Fluttershy more than Dash?" Scootaloo gasped and put a hoof over the florist's mouth.

"Shhh! And yes I'm sure." Roseluck had been known to easily read other ponies and right now, she could sense a definite confusion coming from Scootaloo.

'Must be hard for her; admiring a pony and thinking that you love her for so long is gotta be tough. But maybe it's better this way...from the looks of it, she really likes Fluttershy.' While the pony wanted to speak her mind, she restrained herself. 'Not really my place to comment...for now.'

"Hello? Equestria to Roseluck, come in Roseluck." The pale pony snapped back to reality and looked down to see Scootaloo giving her a questioning look. "You alright?"

"Yea, just kinda zoned out there for a second. What'd ya say?"

"I asked what else you had for me to do."

"Oh! Well follow me and we'll see what we can find." So for the rest of the morning, Scootaloo helped out and did her part around the store. It wasn't until two ponies came that Scootaloo took a break.

"Mom? Twilight?"

"Scootaloo? What're you doing here? Shouldn't you be in school?" Twilight asked, looking at the clock on the wall behind the younger pony.

"She's right. You shouldn't be out yet, it's only one-fifteen."

"Well..." Scootaloo quickly recounted her weekend to her mother, who had a deep frown by the story's end.

"Ooh that Rainbow Dash! Over-working my little Scoots like that. Why I oughta-"

"Mom! It's fine, really! It'll all be worth it." Her mother looked at her like she had grown a horn.

"Are you joking? She needs to go a little easier on you."

Scootaloo frowned and said, "But this is the best way for me to learn! Rainbow Dash is the best flier in Equestria! I'll be flying in no time if I stick with her."

Sky Dancer shook her head and said, "If I could give that mare a piece of my mind..." It was here that Twilight finally decided to remind mother and daughter that she was still present.

"What do you mean? Not that I'd advise shouting or fighting, but why can't you give her a piece of your mind?" Both Sky Dancer and Scootaloo looked down at the floor, but ultimately it was Sky Dancer who looked at the unicorn with a sad smile on her face.

"It's because I physically can't. While I may be a pegasus...my wings are merely for show anymore." Twilight gasped as Sky Dancer continued. "My wings were broken a long time ago...the result was that I could no longer use them. I'm pretty much just a glorified earth pony now."

"Oh my gosh...I'm SO sorry that I brought it up. I mean-"

"It's alright hun. I've come to peace with it so it really doesn't bother me much. I can still stretch them out, but I can never fly again."

Twilight nodded and said, "Either way, you have my condolences. I can't imagine what that would be like; to be able to soar through the skies and have it taken away in an instant...I guess it'd be like if I lost my horn." Twilight shuddered at the thought and said, "But really, I am sorry for bringing it up."

Sky Dancer chuckled and said, "Like I said, it doesn't really bother me much, but thanks nonetheless." The mother turned her gaze to her daughter and said, "Scootaloo...I want you to be careful with this Rainbow Dash mare, alright? I support your want to fly, but that doesn't mean you should go about doing it recklessly. Understand?"

"Don't worry about me. I'll be fine." Sky Dancer just rolled her eyes and leaned over the counter to kiss her daughter's forehead.

"You take it easy alright?"

"Will do Momma. Love ya."

"I love you too." With a wave, the two adult mares walked out and left Scootaloo alone in the front.

"Did we have a customer?" Roseluck asked, poking her head out of her office.

"Nope. Just my mom and Twilight Sparkle."

Roseluck laughed and said, "No excuse! You should've at LEAST tried to sell them something."

Scootaloo saluted and said, "Yes ma'am!"

"At ease soldier!" Scootaloo lowered her hoof and Roseluck retreated back into her office, chuckling.

A few hours later, the door bell jingled, announcing the arrival of more potential customers. "Well hiya girls. Looking for Scoots?" The store owner asked a pair of mares; an earth pony and a unicorn. They both nodded quickly, making Roseluck laugh. "She's in the back tending to the lavender." The two thanked her and rushed past her. Scootaloo was, as Roseluck said, watering the lavender.

"Wonder if I can take some home? The lavender I've got is starting to wither..." The young pegasus wondered aloud before being attacked by her friends.

"Scootaloo!" They both cried in unison, causing Scootaloo to jump. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle laughed as Scootaloo tried to calm her thundering heart.

"Girls! That's not funny!" The pegasus angrily shouted as her friends were on the floor, laughing. When the laughter had died down and Scootaloo's heart resumed normal speed, the Crusaders demanded to know what happened to their third member. So for the third time that day, Scootaloo retold the events of her weekend (with the exception of the massage).

"Wow...so wait, you didn't come to school, but you're working?" Sweetie Belle asked, suspicion in her eyes. "That's because I took a warm bathe and had a nap. Besides, I'm still pretty sore, which is why I'm not doing as much today as I usually do. I mean, all I've done is drop off a few deliveries and water the flowers. This is cake compared to what I normally do." Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle looked at each other, then back at Scootaloo.

"True. So when do ya get offa work?" The young Apple asked.

"I dunno. I just kinda came in and took over for Lily. Hey Rose?" Scootaloo shouted to the front.

"Yea Scoots?" The florist shouted back.

"When do you think I can leave?"

"Whenever you want. Technically you aren't on duty right now." Roseluck said.

"Does that mean I'm not getting paid?" Scootaloo was answered with a laugh.

"So is that a yes...or a no?" Apple Bloom asked, her confusion mirrored by her fellow Crusaders.

"No idea. Let's go find out." When the three had made it to the counter, Roseluck was nowhere to be seen and on the counter was a bag of bits.

"Thanks Rosey."

"I told you not to call me that!" The three Crusaders all screamed in surprise as Roseluck appeared from behind a set of hanging plants that were in the front of the store. "Heh, get outta here." The girls all rushed out, each one trying to catch their breath.

"Well...now what do we do?" Scootaloo asked.

"Umm...wanna go walking around until we find out what to do?" Sweetie Belle replied, shrugging.

"Normally, I'd be down for that. But today...I really don't wanna move around a whole lot."

"I got it! How about we go to the park and...um..."

"Relax and do homework?" Scoots suggested.

"Yea! That's perfect! C'mon girls, let's go!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed, leading the Crusaders (after stopping by Scootaloo's house to grab the homework dropped off by Fluttershy). When they arrived, they easily decided that their spot was to be one that would supply shade for as long as they were there. After a quick argument, the trio decided to set up shop under the tree closest to the fountain.

When they were all comfortable, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom began to talk about their day at school while Scootaloo got to work on her homework.

"You should've heard Rumble. He was acting all high and mighty." Sweetie Belle got on her hindlegs and said in a deep voice, "I'm Rumble and I'm the best flier in our class." She finished with a deep frown, making the other Crusaders laugh aloud.

"Hiya girls! What'cha laughin' at?" The three looked over and saw Pinkie Pie with a snorkel sticking her head out of the fountain.

"Pinkie Pie? What're you doin' in the fountain?"

"I asked first."

The trio smiled and Scootaloo answered, "Sweetie Belle was imitating a bullheaded pony in our class who thinks he can fly better than anyone in our class."

"What a meanie! You're gonna show him your stuff when you learn how to fly like Dashie, right Scootaloo?"

"Of course! Now then...what ARE you doing in the fountain?"

"Oh, I'm searching for sunken treasure of course!" With a grin, the pink party pony replaced the snorkel and dove back into the water. Out of curiosity, the three ponies walked over and peered into the depths of the fountain to see a faint pink dot moving around like it was swimming around the bottom.

"There's no way...I mean, the fountain can't be that deep...right?" Scootaloo asked her fellow Crusaders.

"I'm just gonna chalk that up to Pinkie...bein' Pinkie." Apple Bloom said, moving away from the fountain.

"Agreed." Both Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo said in unison as they too backed away from the strange fountain to continue their work. After awhile, the three took a break, leaving their spot to venture out for ice cream.

Luckily, a pony was smart enough to set up a small stand in the park selling the treat and it didn't take long for the Crusaders to return, each with a cone of ice cream precariously balanced in their hooves or mouth. The trio ate the frozen treats, laughing as they talked of various things ranging to the future, their past adventures, as well as their present lives.

Sadly, the coming of dusk caused them all to part ways, each saying good-bye as they all headed for their homes. When Scootaloo arrived, she unlocked the door and just before she could close it behind her, a voice called out to her. "Hey, squirt!"

"Rainbow Dash?" The cyan pegasus landed in front of the door and grinned, pushing herself inside.

"So were've you been hiding all day? I couldn't find you at school or anywhere."

"Yea...I was taking a rest day."

Rainbow frowned and said, "A rest day?"

Scootaloo could feel the shame that Dash was trying to place on her and said, "Yes. I mean...I want to be awesome like you, but you've been flying pretty much your whole life and me..."

"Well...I suppose that's true. Very well, I'll allow you the occasional rest day. But don't get too used to the idea. If you wanna be the best, you have to train like the best." Scootaloo nodded and watched as Rainbow headed into the kitchen. "You got anything to eat?"

Scootaloo nodded and walked in, trying hard not to stare at the way Rainbow's flanks seemed to dance as she went from counter to counter, searching for sustenance. The orange pony nearly jumped back when a rainbow coloured tail gently swished against her muzzle.

"My bad Scoots." Dash said with a tone of playfulness. Scootaloo's face immediately lit up with heat as implications ran through her mind like ponies participating in the Running of the Leaves.

"I..er..." Rainbow Dash laughed and grabbed a pair of apple chips before digging into them.

"Well...I have decided that if I'm going to be your personal trainer, I'm going to be staying here with you." Scootaloo nearly dropped at the sentence.

"W-what?! I don't think I can-"

"I'll sleep with you in your room." Scootaloo tried to say something, but all that came out was random noises. She went from looking at Rainbow's flanks, to staring at her carpet, then nothing but darkness.

Words of Advice

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Rainbow turned when she heard a thud! behind her and smiled at the sight of the orange pegasus passed out on the floor with a dark red blush on her unconscious face. "Cute. Guess I should get her to bed though." Dash lifted the younger pony up and laid her out on the bed.

Scootaloo landed on her back and her legs drifted apart, showing her soft and bare underside. Rainbow Dash couldn't tear her gaze away as thoughts began to pool in her mind. 'She's never been with anypony before...I wonder if she...' Rainbow tentatively reached out to give a light rub to the younger pony's stomach, but stopped.

'She isn't a filly anymore, she's pretty much a grown mare now. It kind of feels like I'm taking advantage of her though...but she loves me right? So she should be fine with it if I just...' Rainbow shook her head and left the room, trying to get the image of the vulnerable pony out of her mind. She went down into the living room and got onto the couch. 'It's been so long since I was with another mare...Could I really hold a relationship again?'

As Rainbow became lost in thought, she couldn't help it as her hoof slowly traced a line up and down her belly, each time going lower and lower. A light moan left her lips as she felt the magic all ponies shared faintly shimmer, revealing her most vulnerable areas to nopony but herself. The pools of cerise slowly closed as she skirted her hoof around the pink flesh.

Each time she made a pass downwards, she circled around her sex, groaning as she resisted the urge to assault her quivering marehood. 'Gotta make it last...' Dash absently thought as she continued her ministrations to her lower half. The cyan pegasus had to constantly stifle her moans for fear of waking the younger flier up.

'But imagine if she came down and saw her idol and love interest like this...' Rainbow bit her lip as her hoof came in contact with the centre of her dipping slit. "Ahh..." She allowed a small moan of pleasure to escape her lips, if only to further her own carnal need. The prismatic pegasus focused on the image of Scootaloo coming down and actually helping Dash reach her climax.

By now, Rainbow had slid off the couch and was on her back knees as she furiously rubbed her hoof against the small pink pearl while she lost herself to the passion, allowing more and more moans to escape her mouth. Dash paid no heed to the droplets of her sex falling onto the carpet and darkening the area.

Finally, with one last burst of speed, Rainbow reached the plateau of bliss and her vision became hazy as rapture spread through her veins like adrenaline. She was only slightly aware of the juices flowing past her hoof and onto the floor as her head lolled back and rested on the couch.

When the pegasus came down from her high, she slowly made her way into the kitchen and washed off her hoof before grabbing a cloth rag to scrub her juice off the floor. "Man...I needed that." Dash said with a sigh of content as she worked on removing the stain she had created.

When she finished cleaning, she tossed the rag into the sink and quickly covered it in soap and began to scrub it back and forth between her hooves to eliminate the smell (and probably taste) of her sex. When she was satisfied, Rainbow went back into the living room to crawled onto the couch again. However, it wasn't long before the pegasus was bored.

"Guess I'll hit the hay as well. Nothing much else to do now." With that, Dash gave a quick stretch and headed upstairs and crawled into the bed next to Scootaloo and was asleep in seconds.

~~~

When Scootaloo awoke the next morning, she noticed two things. First, that Dash was in bed with her and second, it was seven-twenty. 'Ugh...why can't I enjoy this?' she thought as she carefully crawled out of bed to avoid waking the other pegasus. As quietly as she could, Scootaloo tip-hoofed down the stairs and into the kitchen where she quickly made her usual breakfast and ate it just as quick before gathering all of her homework and heading off to school.

As Scootaloo walked, she noticed that her level of soreness was at an all-time low. 'I really need to thank her for this. But what would I do? Buy her something? Take her out to eat?' Suggestion after suggestion filed through her mind. However, she gave up once the school was in sight. 'Maybe I could ask somepony for help later? Maybe...Roseluck? Or Twilight? Maybe...Daisy and Lily?'

The orange mare smiled and headed to her desk as she awaited the day's beginning. School went by as usual; Burnt Oak would go over the assignments, followed by some readying or studying which was then followed by lunch. During the break, Scootaloo told her fellow Crusaders about Dash basically moving in with her.

"Wow! At this rate, you'll get'er for sure!" Apple Bloom exclaimed.

"I know right? I can't wait!" Scootaloo said enthusiastically. Sweetie Belle on the other hand, wasn't convinced.

"I don't know Scoots...while this may seem like your infatuation is taking the shape of real love...it just doesn't seem natural to me I guess. Not the fact that you're both mares, but at the fact that you two haven't even gone on your first date, haven't shared a kiss, all that stuff. So why would she move in with you other than to continue your training?"

Scootaloo frowned and was about to say something, but Burnt Oak cut her off, announcing that it was time to go back to class. Throughout class, Scootaloo frowned. 'How could she SAY something like that! I mean, seriously! She's supposed to support me in times like this but instead goes and does the opposite...'

Scootaloo was so deep in her brooding that it wasn't until Burnt Oak slammed a ruler down on her desk, causing her to scowl and shout, "What!?" The stallion looked down at her, surprise in his face before it quickly turned to a look of disapproval.

"I was going to ask if you knew the answer to this problem, but instead I think I'll TELL you that you've got an hour of detention after school." The instructor spun and went back to his lesson.

Scootaloo looked directly at Sweetie Belle and mouthed, "Thanks a lot." The pegasus then promptly turned her anger towards the window, hoping the clouds (or lack thereof) would cheer her up. It didn't. When school let out, Scootaloo was still in a sour mood as everypony else filed outside, leaving only her and Burnt Oak.

"What's wrong Scootaloo?" The instructor asked.

"Nothing." Came the curt response.

"Doesn't seem like nothing."

"Well it is." Mr. Oak sighed and took off his glasses to rub the bridge of his nose.

"You sure that-"

"Yes I'm sure. Look, no offense Mr. Oak, but I just don't want to talk about it. I'd rather serve my detention in silence if you don't mind." Scootaloo said, never meeting her teacher's gaze.

The aged stallion replaced his glasses and said, "Very well then Ms. Scootaloo." After that, complete silence filled the room, apart from the occasional shuffle of papers coming from the instructor. Finally, when the hour had passed, Burnt Oak said, "You can go." without looking up.

During the hour, Scootaloo had berated herself for snapping at her teacher and wished to apologize.

"Umm...sorry about earlier...I've got a lot on my mind."

"I know. Care to talk about it?" Scootaloo moved from her desk and took a seat closer to the older pony. Soon, Scootaloo was explaining everything to the wise stallion, everything from her crush on Rainbow Dash to her recent training sessions.

Finally, after a few long and deep breaths after Scootaloo finished, Burnt Oak looked straight in the young pegasus's eyes and said, "Sounds like you're in quite a pickle." Scootaloo's jaw dropped at the bluntness of the response.

"I already knew that!" Burnt Oak chuckled and looked to his left out the window that Scootaloo was caught staring through many times.

"You mustn't be upset with Sweetie Belle. She just wants what's best for you."

"By belittling my affection for Rainbow Dash?"

"No, by looking out for your BEST interests. From what you've told me of this Rainbow Dash, it seems she only wants you around as her adoring audience." The words hit Scootaloo like a ton of apples.

"S-she also enjoys my company. We can talk for hours at a time!"

"What do you two usually talk about?"

"...Her exploits or the Wonderbolts."

"And never about what you want to talk about?" Scootaloo was silent as she searched for a time when Dash had shown a genuine interest in Scootaloo's stories or anything that related to her. She drew up blank.

"I..." Burnt Oak said nothing, instead staring at her with sad eyes. The instructor went to speak, but Scootaloo cut her off. "Wait! There was one time awhile back...I was walking home from school and I was walking alone since Sweetie and Apple Bloom weren't at school. Anyways, it started raining and I was already having a bad day since I was relentlessly bullied about being a blank flank pegasus who couldn't fly.

I started to cry...and as I was crying, a hole opened up in the clouds and I saw Rainbow Dash looking down at me, a sad look on her face. She came down and we sat in the rain together as she hugged me and told me that everything was going to be okay. That was the day I knew that I truly loved her." The dark coloured stallion listened as the young pony spoke.

'Hmm...it sounds like Rainbow Dash is only leading her on for herself, but at the same time, she sounds like she truly does wish Scootaloo happiness...What to do, what to do.' When Scootaloo finished her story, Burnt Oak stood up from behind his desk ans walked over to the window and gazed out into the blue sky.

"I...I'm not sure what to tell you now dear. It sounds like you are right and she does care for you, but you cannot completely dismiss your friend's concern. To ignore it would be foalish. Only time will tell." Scootaloo nodded and waited for more. However, the stallion silently remained in front of the window, his back to her.

The pegasus took this as her cue to exit. On her way back to town, Scootaloo saw both Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom sitting on a bench, waiting for her. As she approached, the unicorn dropped her gaze to the dirt as Apple Bloom looked torn. Scootaloo walked up in silence and simply stood in front of her friends. Finally, the pegasus broke the silence. "Hey..."

"Hey..." The unicorn answered quietly.

"Listen Sweetie Belle...I'm uh...I'm sorry about earlier. You were just lookin' out for me and I had no reason to take it out on you."

"No, I'm sorry. I know how important being with Rainbow Dash is to you and I should be more supportive instead of being negative like that." The two friends looked at each other, a small smile on their faces. Without another word, the two wrapped their hooves around each other and chuckled as Apple Bloom joined the hug.

"Now that we got the sappy part outta the way, how about we go do somethin' fun!" The earth pony suggested, getting a cheer from the other Crusaders. The three bumped their hooves together and ran off, laughing as they went.

~~~

When Scootaloo got home, she was surprised to see Dash in the living room, sitting on a small, chair shaped cloud. "'Sup Scoots?"

"How did...why is there..."

"Oh, this? No offense but your furniture isn't exactly comfortable so I broke up a cloud and turned it into a chair." Dash said with a grin. Scootaloo also noticed a Wonderbolts poster hanging on the wall beside the kitchen. "Nice huh?" Scootaloo simply nodded and headed into the kitchen to make a small snack.

She heard Dash hover in behind her and say, "Don't forget, we've got training tonight, tomorrow, and on Thursday."

"I can't train tomorrow; I've gotta work since I missed out this weekend."

Dash sighed and said, "You can skip it one more time can't'cha?"

"I really can't. This place isn't going to pay for itself."

Dash rolled her eyes and said, "That's why you should live in a cloud home; you'd never have to pay rent or anything for it."

Scootaloo nodded and said, "Maybe after I learn to fly you can help me make one?"

"Sure! It'll be easy." Dash said, fluffing the orange pony's mane. Rainbow left the room and Scootaloo quickly finished making her sandwich. She sat at the table and ate while Rainbow entertained herself with a paddle-ball in the other room. When the food was eaten, Scootaloo headed back into the living room to work on homework.

"Man, I'm sure glad I never had to do anything like that back at Flight School." Scootaloo just nodded and continued working. An hour or so later, Dash grumbled and flew small circles in the small room. "Ugh, I'm so bored. Hey Scoots, let's go out and do something."

The orange pony resisted the urge to blush and said, "Let me finish my homework and-"

"You can do that later." Dash had put her hooves down around Scootaloo's homework and filled Scootaloo's vision with her face. No matter how hard she tried, the young pegasus couldn't stop the blush that rose to her face. "Please?" Dash asked, a tone of playfulness lacing her voice.

"I..." She looked away from Rainbow's face, but a cyan hoof under her chin made her look back.

"C'mon Scoots. I'm bored, you're bored...let's go do something!" Scootaloo swallowed the lump in her throat and leaned forward slowly.

'You can do this Scootaloo! Just kiss her!' The orange pony thought loudly to herself. However, just before contact, a knock came at the door, making both pegasi jump in shock. "I-I'll get it!" Scootaloo quickly jumped off the couch and headed to the door.

She was surprised to see a pegasus looking down at the ground as she opened the entrance to her home. "Fluttershy? What're you doing here?" From behind Scootaloo, Dash called out to her friend.

"Hey 'Shy!"

"Rainbow Dash?" Fluttershy looked past Scootaloo and saw Rainbow waving to her. This obviously confused the yellow pony, but she said nothing on the matter. "I just wanted to come and check on you, see if you were doing alright."

"Oh, yea. I'm doing good. Better than I have for a long time in fact." Fluttershy smiled.

"That's good. Guess I'll head back home and-"

"Wait! Fluttershy, hold on." Dash appeared above Scootaloo and smiled at her shy friend. "Me and Scootaloo were about to go do...something. Wanna join us?"

"W-what did you plan on doing?" Fluttershy asked, already afraid of what kind of idea her racing friend would cook up.

"I have no idea yet." The prismatic pegasus said with a grin.

"I...I guess that would be alright. If you don't me joining that is." The yellow pegasus said, glancing down at the ground.

"I don't. Do you Scoots?" Scootaloo shook her head, happy that there would be another pony there to make things less...tense for her. "Awesome! Let's go!" So, for the next few hours, the trio of pegasi walked with Dash making most of the noise as she talked and gave suggestions as to what they should do.

Everything she suggested didn't get very far as the other two ponies disagreed. Normally Scootaloo would've jumped on the idea of doing things that would impress Rainbow Dash, but she didn't want to put Fluttershy in situations she didn't want to be in. Finally, Rainbow sighed in frustration and said, "Fine. I'll just go flying around. See ya back at home Scoots."

With that, the cyan pegasus took off, her rainbow trail quickly becoming lost in the darkness of night, leaving Fluttershy and Scootaloo together.

"So...when did she move in if you don't mind me asking?"

"Yesterday was when she decided that she'd be living with me. It's pretty awesome." Fluttershy nodded and the pair just stood their, neither pony knowing what to do.

"Well...I should probably get going. I'm sure my animal friends are worried."

"Oh...alright." Fluttershy bid the younger pony good night and headed for home. However, as Scootaloo watched her go, she remembered that she needed to do something nice for her. "Fluttershy wait! I need to ask you something."

The pink-maned pony stopped and looked back at Scootaloo. "I wanted to thank you for what you did for me and I wanted to ask if you'd let me repay you."

Fluttershy gave a warm smile and said, "You don't have to do anything nice for me. It's reward enough to know that you're alright."

"No! I WANT to do something for you. It's the least I could do since you took such good care of me." Fluttershy was about to protest, but Scootaloo smiled and said, "Don't worry, it's alright. As soon as I figure out what I'm going to do for you, I'll let you know."

Scootaloo knew that the yellow pony wasn't going to allow somepony else to show her kindness like this, so the orange pegasus turned and ran before Fluttershy could say anything against Scootaloo's plan. Fluttershy stood there, shocked as Scootaloo ran off, and left the timid pegasus on her own. When the younger pony disappeared around a corner, Fluttershy couldn't help but laugh as she continued on her way home.

~~~

When Scootaloo got back home, she saw that Rainbow was nowhere to be found. The young pegasus took a breath and before she did anything else, Scootaloo sat down and finished what was left of her homework. After that, her gaze slowly moved to the hovering chair of cloud.

"I wonder..." Scootaloo hopped up and moved over to the chair and poked it. It shifted slightly, but otherwise remained still. "Okay...you stood AND slept on clouds for two days...you can do this." The young pegasus took a breath and hopped up onto the chair. As soon as she landed in the chair, it hovered backwards and bounced harmlessly off the wall.

"Whoa! This is awesome!" Scootaloo enthusiastically bounced in the chair, laughing like a filly as it rose and fell with her bouncing while never touching the ground.

"See? Told you clouds were better."

"Ahh!" Scootaloo screamed and fell out of the chair, rolling on the floor and spinning to face the mysterious voice. Standing in the doorway was Rainbow Dash, laughing loudly.

"The look on your face!" Scootaloo blushed in embarrassment as Dash walked in and shut the door behind her. "But seriously, what'd I tell ya?"

Scootaloo just nodded and said, "I can't wait till I have a cloud home!"

"That's the spirit! Now then, if ya don't mind, I'm going to bed. See ya tomorrow squirt." With that, Rainbow yawned and headed upstairs. Scootaloo watched her go and Burnt Oak's words rang her her mind.

'But you cannot completely dismiss the words of your friend.' The orange pony shook her head and sighed, heading back into the kitchen to plan what she was gonna do for Fluttershy. Sadly, she couldn't think of anything creative other than taking her out to dinner.

"Ugh! That's too normal! I want to do something nice for her but all I can think of is take her out to dinner?" Scootaloo pushed the papers in front of her off the table and sighed, rubbing the bridge of her nose. "Alright, tomorrow I ask Roseluck for advice. Maybe Lily and Daisy can help too since they're actually in a relationship together."

The pegasus mare cleaned up the notes she had tossed onto the floor and put them in her saddlebag before heading up to her room where her bed and Rainbow Dash were waiting for her.

~~~

Scootaloo awoke with a start and looked around. She was surrounded by total darkness and could feel panic starting to rise up in her system. However, the snore that rose from the darkness next to her calmed her and offered comfort. 'I'm at home in bed.' The orange pony sighed quietly and closed her eyes, attempting to return to sleep.

However, sleep would not accept her attempts and cruelly rejected her. With a heavy sigh, Scootaloo rolled off the bed and made her way to the bathroom. With night-adjusted eyes, the mare shuffled her way through the dark home and into the bathroom (and managed to keep her hoof-stubbing to a minimum of one). After conducting her business and washing her hooves, Scootaloo made her way downstairs and into the kitchen.

She flicked on the small light, shielding her eyes from the light that assaulted her vision, threatening to blind her (not really, but it certainly felt that way). As her eyes slowly adjusted, Scootaloo stumbled around, trying not to be loud as she grabbed a few things and started to make herself some coffee.

Normally Scootaloo didn't touch the stuff and wondered to this day why her aunt had gifted it to her. However, there were mornings where Scoots would wake up and feel lethargic, groggy, and just overall sluggish. This was going to be one of those mornings. While she awaited the drink, Scootaloo gazed outside the window and saw Luna's illustrious work of art still stretching across the sky.

'What time is it? I thought it'd be later than this...' Turning her gaze away from the window, the now fully awake mare turned and saw that it was only three thirteen. 'I've only been asleep four hours? Ugh...' Scootaloo put her head on the table and inhaled slowly, then exhaled.

She took her head off the table and walked out of the house through the back door. The cool night air rushed to meet her and despite her natural pegasine warmth, Scootaloo shivered. It was like the air had gently wrapped itself around her in a light embrace before moving on, leaving her to stand in silence at the beauty of the night. "How anypony sleeps while there is this much beauty at night is beyond me."

"I as well." Scootaloo turned, resisting the urge to scream and saw the Princess of the Night standing on the roof of her home.

"Princess Luna? What're you doing here?"

"Simply surveying the night world, keeping an eye out for anything suspicious as I have always done." The lunar princess flapped her wings once and hovered down to the smaller pony. As she came down, Scootaloo watched the Princess's wings in awe and jealousy.

"I wish I could have wings as magnificent as yours." The alicorn looked at Scootaloo with a strange look before gently lifting Scootaloo's right wing and inspecting it.

"Your wings are beautiful and healthy as far as I can tell."

"Yea, they look nice...but you can actually use yours...I'm a grown mare and I still can't fly!"

Luna chuckled politely and asked, "Where was it written that pegasi had a set age of flight? I remember no such rule or requirement."

"It may not matter to you, but it does to me. Every day I have to live with the embarrassment that I'm a pegasus who can't fly...but luckily, I've got the best flier in Equestria to help me! I mean...other than yourself Your Majesty."

The royal pony rolled her eyes with a smile and said, "I know what you mean. However, are you sure that training with Rainbow Dash will help? Flight is something you must discover on your own."

Scootaloo sighed and mumbled, "That's what my mom always says..." The Princess put a hoof around Scootaloo and pulled her into a light hug.

"Take heed in her words. Mothers are some of the smartest minds in Equestria."

Scootaloo nodded and was silent for a moment before she looked up at the Princess and with a straight face asked, "Would you like some coffee?" Luna looked down at the mare in confusion for a moment before bursting out into laughter.

"If you do not mind, I would appreciate a cup." Scootaloo silently walked into her house with Luna in tow. The two sat at the table as the orange mare poured two cups of coffee, asking the royal princess if she wanted anything specific in hers. "I'll have two spoons of sugar, nothing more." Scoots nodded and handed the cup to the Night Princess after adding the sugar.

"Princess...can I ask your advice?"

"Of course. What is it you need?" Scootaloo took a few deep breaths, adding spoonful after spoonful of sugar to her coffee.

"I want to do something nice for Fluttershy, but I don't know what to do! I mean, she helped me out and I want to show my appreciation but I also want to do something original...is this making any sense at all?" Luna was silent for a moment as she sipped the bittersweet beverage.

"Yes, it makes sense. You wish to convey your feelings to Fluttershy in the most romantic way possible and-"

"Whoa whoa whoa whoa whoa! T-that's not what I meant at all!" Scootaloo interrupted, blushing and waving her hooves back and forth. "She helped me and I just wanted to thank her for it. Like...treat her to dinner or get her some flowers or something!"

"Ahh, my mistake. Well then, why don't you..." The lunar alicorn stopped to think for a moment while Scootaloo took a deep swig of her coffee, the over-sweetened drink sending a shiver throughout her body. "Oh! Take her on a walk through the shopping district of Canterlot and if she shows interesting in anything, purchase it for her." Scootaloo nodded, taking the plan into her mind.

A smile formed on her lips and it quickly transformed into a grin. "That's a great idea! Thank you Princess!" The lunar mare simply smiled and sipped her drink. While the pair finished their drinks, they talked about the stars in the sky, Scootaloo's friends; simple things. Finally, Luna took one last sip and her coffee was gone.

"Well, I'm afraid I must take my leave. I will have to lower the moon to make way for my sister's sun soon."

"Ahh, well...thanks for helping me."

"Tis no trouble at all. While my sister may be more...popular, I am always willing to help those in need." Scootaloo smiled and followed Luna outside. "Take care Scootaloo. I hope Fluttershy enjoys your appreciation. May the moon and sun watch over you." With that, Luna's wings extended from her sides and with a few flaps was airborne.

Scootaloo watched in awe as the Night Princess disappeared into the starry sky. She gave a wave to where Luna had disappeared and headed back inside to wash the cups they had used. After they had been put up to dry, Scootaloo glanced at the clock and saw that it was five in the morning. The young pegasus sighed and said, "Well...time to play the waiting game."

With that, she walked into the living room, grabbed a book, and waited.

Author's Notes:

Well, it's five in the morning and my Insomnia won't let me sleep, so I figured, "Hey, I'm gonna post a chapter since I've got nothing better to do!"

Well...that and since I'll be moving back into my college dorm later today, I have NO idea when I'd be able to do this so why not now while I have nothing else to do (can't sleep, can't play Xbox cuz it's downloading stuff, and I don't feel like writing right now). So, with that, I hope you enjoy the growing drama that is...Learning to Fly ^^

Oh! That reminds me, I recently helped out a friend of mine (StormHoof32) with a chapter of his DashFire fic called "If Only They Knew". I got to write a WHOLE chapter for it and stuff. It's a nifty little story so far and I recommend giving it a look. I mean, I personally prefer...how to put this...shipping stories that are uncommon (like ALL the stories I write), but it's pretty decent. Kay, rambling now. Sorry (Also, it's his birthday today!)

Rainy Day

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When the clock chimed seven, a crack of thunder scared Scootaloo off the couch. "W-what? Thunder?" Scootaloo headed over to the window and saw an overcast sky blocking Celestia's sun. "How'd I miss those?" Scootaloo headed upstairs and opened the door to her room. To her surprise, Rainbow Dash was gone. "How'd she get past me? I never saw her leave the house."

"It's called a window Scoots." Scootaloo spun around, a hoof on her hammering heart.

"Rainbow! Stop scaring me!"

Dash just laughed and said, "You set yourself up for these Scoots. It's not my fault." Scootaloo rolled her eyes and stepped out of the way to allow Rainbow to step into the bedroom.

"So what time did you leave?"

"About...five thirty-ish I think. Now...if you excuse me...I'm gonna head back to sleep. All that work really tired me out."

"But you slept from...ten until five or so."

"Trust me...it's tough work." With that, Dash plopped down onto the bed.

"Hey, wait a sec...I thought the storm was scheduled for last week?" Scoots asked in confusion.

"It was, but there were a few mishaps and we ended up pushing the storm back because of them." The young flier nodded and turned to leave the room. "Have fun learning." Scootaloo couldn't tell if Dash was being serious or if she was just kidding around. She wanted to ask, but before she could even open her mouth, Scootaloo heard the tell-tale signs that Rainbow had fallen asleep.

The purple-maned pony chuckled and quietly shut the door and headed downstairs. Even though it had yet to rain, Scootaloo grabbed her umbrella just in case and headed for school. As she walked, Scootaloo watched the thunder and lightning with a smile on her face. The young pony loved the rain and wished the pegasi would bring rain to Ponyville more often.

Sadly, more rain would have a definite effect on the many crops surrounding the town. "Maybe I can just take a few rainclouds every now and then and make it rain in a small secluded spot just for myself..." Scootaloo grinned as the image of herself sitting under a pouring cloud popped into her mind. The grin was short lived as Scootaloo arrived at the school and saw Rumble sitting outside.

"Well well well, if it isn't Scootaloo."

"What do you want Rumble?" She asked, trying to walk past her classmate. However, the young stallion pushed her back and denied her entry.

"Who said you could come in here? Only smart ponies are allowed in school."

"Really? Then why are you here?" She replied with a scowl.

"Ha! Nice try but nothin' you can say is gonna get to me this time." The young stallion sneered, his wings flaring up from his sides.

"This time? So you're saying that I've gotten to you every other time we've fought?"

Rumble frowned and said, "No! What I meant was that-"

"That I outsmart you every time we fight like this, I know. Such a shame really. Wish I could help you out but apparently, I'm not a smart pony." Rumble was fuming by now and it was obvious he wanted to lash out. "Do us both a favour and just leave me alone Rumble. You aren't gonna get anywhere if you just keep making fun of me."

Scootaloo took a step forward and like she predicted, Rumble shoved a hoof out to push her back. However, since the young pegasus had foreseen his reaction, Scoots dodged to the left and the pegasus stallion fell to the ground. His face burned in rage as Scootaloo smirked and walked past him, leaving Rumble to be laughed at by his peers. The orange pony took her seat and waited for Burnt Oak to arrive. However, a few seconds later, Scootaloo heard something behind her.

"Hey chicken!" Scootaloo turned and before she could do anything at all, a hoof smashed itself into her muzzle, sending her onto the floor. "That'll teach ya!" Scootaloo tasted blood in her mouth as she turned to see Rumble sneering down at her. "Oh, and if you say anything to Burnt Oak, that'll only be the start of your problems."

Scoots was about to leap off the floor and attack the stallion, but the sound of an older voice stopped her, and instead she just got off the floor and slid back into her seat.

"Alright students, take out your pencils and get ready for the quiz." He said, writing the subject of the quiz on the board and proceeding to hand out the tests. "Seeing as how the today's storm was delayed from last week, the pegasi have informed me and every other school instructor that the storm is going to be more powerful than usual. So if you finish early, you will be allowed to leave early to get home before the storm. However, if not, then you'll probably be picked up by your parents."

As she was preparing, Scootaloo looked around for her fellow Crusaders but saw neither hide nor hair of them. Scootaloo sighed, wincing in pain as she grabbed the pencil in her mouth. A fresh wave of pain rushed across her face and for a moment Scootaloo saw a flash of white jump across her eyes. She felt her face scrunch up in irritated pain as she waited for her vision to return. "Is something wrong Ms. Scootaloo?"

"Uh...no...I just um...thought I had to sneeze. It's all good now." The instructor watched her for a moment before heading back to his desk. Since Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle weren't at school, Scootaloo held nothing back. While her writing was a little sloppy due to the pain her her mouth, she finished quickly nonetheless.

Scootaloo held her hoof up, letting the older stallion know that she had finished. Everypony let out a quiet gasp; Scootaloo the slacker had finished first. Burnt Oak however was unsurprised as he took her paper and nodded toward her, letting her know that she was free to leave. As she walked past Rumble, she stuck her tongue out at him as she continued out the door.

The stallion growled but stayed silent. The mare let herself smile as she headed out (ignoring the fresh pain that flared up). "And it's only nine! Guess I can get some extra hours in for money!" With a slight hop in her step, the young pegasus headed for her workplace.

~~~

When she arrived, Roseluck was swarmed behind the counter. Scootaloo wasted no time in rushing behind the counter and grabbing the lists of orders. She then ran into the back and started grabbing the flowers that were asked for on the lists and put them on the front counter for Roseluck to distribute.

When the rush had ended, Roseluck took a large breath and plopped down on the chair behind the counter.

"I'm glad you came when ya did Scoots." The pegasus smiled and hopped up onto the counter.

"Kinda strange for a rush on Wednesday...as well as right before a large storm." Scootaloo said, staring out at the clouds and watching the occasional bolt of lightning rush through the darkened clouds.

"Well...it's kind of romantic. I mean think about it; you're trapped inside with your lover, the sky is a soft grey from Celestia's sun shining down onto the clouds from behind, the sound of rain hitting the roof, the sight of distorted light as the rain pours down the windows, the way the cool air somehow finds it's way into your home to make you cuddle together..."

With every image the earth pony planted within Scootaloo's mind, the younger pony imagined herself with Rainbow Dash cuddling on the couch of Scootaloo's home, the two of them happily content as shadows danced across the floor from the rain-slicked windows.

"I love ya squirt."

"I love you too Dash." Scootaloo imagined the pair closing their eyes and bringing their lips together.

"Umm...Scootaloo? Equestria to Scootaloo?" The pegasus in question shook her head to rid herself of the fantasy image and look over at Roseluck.

"Huh?" Roseluck couldn't help but laugh at the quizzical look on Scootaloo's face.

"Maybe I should quit the florist business and become an author if my words can do that."

Scootaloo smiled and said, "Then where would I work?"

"You could...be my editor!" The pegasus laughed and headed into the back to water the flowers.

~~~

"Are you leaving Fluttershy?" Twilight asked, looking up from her book and at her pegasine friend.

"Yea, but I'll be back. I just want to make sure that some of my animal friends are going to be fine during the storm. I'll be right back." Fluttershy headed out of Golden Oaks Library and quickly made her way from small little animal homes that were around the town. Each place she stopped at was given her approval.

Halfway through her inspections, the timid pegasus felt drops of rain lightly fall upon her coat. "Oh my..." Fluttershy knew that she needed to hurry lest she be caught in the storm. However, it swiftly became apparent that she wasn't going to make it. The rain was getting heavier faster than she could move. So, the yellow pegasus looked around for somewhere to take shelter.

However, by now everypony was in the safety of a building or shelter. "Oh no..." The roar of thunder made Fluttershy scream and shiver on the ground, closing her eyes as she tried to wish the storm away. Normally Fluttershy loved the rain, but this was a storm, not a light rain. She shakily got off the ground and looked around once again, moving her rain-soaked mane out of her eyes.

"Fluttershy?" The shy pony turned and saw Scootaloo standing in the doorway of the flower shop. "C'mon! Get in here!" Fluttershy ran as quickly as she could, tackling the pegasus to the ground in an embrace.

"Oh Scootaloo, thank you so much!" Fluttershy could feel the pony under her become a bit warmer, signaling a blush.

"Er...no problem Fluttershy. C-could you please get off?"

"Sorry." The older pegasus stood up and helped the younger pony up. Scootaloo caught herself staring into Fluttershy's calm cyan eyes while rain slid down her yellow coat and matted down her pink mane.

"You can look into the pretty pony's eyes later. As far as I can tell, you're still on the clock." Scootaloo snapped out of her trance and looked away, trying to fight back the blush on her face.

"R-right! I'll be in the back." Scootaloo headed into the back with her face down, leaving Roseluck and Fluttershy alone in the front.

"Hold on a second and I'll get you a towel."

"Thank you." Fluttershy couldn't help but shiver as she waited in the shop area of the building. Seconds later, the creme coloured earth pony returned with a dark purple towel.

"What were you doing out there? Surely you knew about the storm."

"I had to make sure that my animal friends would be alright since they live more in their own homes rather than in mine." Roseluck nodded and waited while Fluttershy dried herself off. When the pegasus was comfortably dry, she handed the towel back. Roseluck hung the towel up and offered a seat to Fluttershy in her office.

The two sat in silence as Roseluck did paperwork. However, the earth pony slowly became unnerved by the silence. She was used to noise, not silence. She needed the sound of another pony's voice. "So..." Fluttershy looked up with an absolutely adorable look on her face. 'Sweet Celestia she's cute! If I wasn't already hooked up with my darling little dentist...'

"Yes Roseluck?"

"Uh...I...Oh! So you got a thing for my little flower girl?" The florist nearly died laughing while Fluttershy nearly passed out from the amount of blood rushing to her face. The timid pegasus tried to speak, but all that came out of her mouth were cute little noises that hardly resembled words and it only egged Roseluck to laugh even more.

When Roseluck had wiped the tears from her eyes, she waited for Fluttershy to come out from behind her mane. "Seriously though, don't try and deny it. I could see it in your eyes when you were getting lost in her's."

"I-"

"Like I said, don't deny it. We earth ponies are good are reading ponies. Just ask Applejack." Fluttershy remained silent. She knew full well about the strange "sixth sense" earth ponies used for reading ponies with scary accuracy. Fluttershy had already had this discussion with Applejack a few years back when the pegasus was dropping Winona off after her bi-weekly check-up.

Fluttershy had been staring at Scootaloo and Applejack pulled her off to the side and Fluttershy thought she would go deaf in one ear after the orange earth pony got finished lecturing her.

~~~Flashback

"Ya can't go on lovin' a young mare like that Fluttershy! Don't get me wrong, lovin' a mare's all well and fine but she's barely left her filly years behind!"

"I know...but there's just something about her...please don't look at me like that. I know she's too young for me but I can wait...I can't explain it Applejack, but whenever she visits, I just feel a huge rush of happiness rush through me." Applejack gave her friend a sideways glance as she turned her head to watch the Crusaders before speaking again.

"Ah dunno Flutters...ah mean, it's understand the feelin' of love. Look at me and Rainbow: We're both really competitive and fight alot, but we still manage to get by. But this...this is different." Fluttershy sighed and looked down at the ground, finding that she had dug a small rut into the earth. Applejack could see the hurt in her flying friend, so she steppped closer and wrapped a hoof around her friend.

"Now listen sugarcube, I'm not sayin' that you gotta give up right here and now. If ya'll're serious 'bout waitin'...than ah think you could have a shot. She seems to take a right shinin' to ya."

Fluttershy looked up to her friend and said, "Mhmm. She seems to come over more often without the other girls."

"Oh? What for?"

"Well...she has a little friend that she likes to see and help take care of; a little fox she named Star."

Applejack smiled and said, "Well that's good. Now c'mon, the girls're waitin'."

~~~Flashback end

"Well...yea. I have for awhile but I wanted to wait until she got a little older in case some ponies would have trouble with me dating a younger pony..."

"Yea. You've got to be at least...five years older than her right?" Fluttershy answered not with words, but with a blushing nod.

"Heh, that's pretty cute Fluttershy. Well, I honestly wish you the best of luck because I honestly don't think that Rainbow Dash can take care of her like you could. Don't get me wrong, Dash is a successful mare...but something tells me that she'd be better with you." Fluttershy's blush just became more pronounced as Roseluck spoke.

"T-thank you."

"Just tellin' the truth my friend and believe me when I say that the truth can work wonders in the kind of situation. It worked for me and Colgate, so I know that it'll work for you two as well." Fluttershy nodded but was otherwise silent. "So tell me, how're you gonna win her over?"

"Oh...I can't do that."

"What?! Why in Luna's name not?" Roseluck asked, nearly leaping out of her seat. Fluttershy however, cringed in fright at the sudden movement.

"I-it's because I d-don't want to ruin her dream. She wants to be with Rainbow so badly...I'd feel horrible if I took her away from that."

"So you'd rather just let her get her heart broken?"

"Of course not! It's just..." Fluttershy stopped, taking a few light breaths. Roseluck sighed and moved around her desk to hug Fluttershy. "I have to give Dash a fair chance...even if it means that Scootaloo may never look for romance with a mare ever again." It twisted Rose's heart to see such a deserving mare shot down before she she could even get a chance.

"No. There's gotta be something we can do! I mean..." Fluttershy looked into the florist's eyes and it took all of Roseluck's will for her not to cry. "C'mon Fluttershy...you're gonna make me tear up here." Fluttershy lowered her head and Roseluck could feel the silent sobs that racked the older pony in her arms. Rose could do nothing more but offer Fluttershy the comfort she needed.

~~~

Scootaloo sighed as she watched the rain pour down the large windows of the greenhouse area of the flower shop. "Maybe I should've went home first so I would've got stuck with Dash..." Her mind drifted back to the image that had been painted in her mind when Rose was describing the romantic-ness of a rainy day. 'Soon, it will be more than just a hopeful thought in my head.'

Through the distorted glass, Scootaloo saw an empty town and it struck her as weird. Scootaloo expected to see a few ponies, despite the downpour but had yet to see any. Instead, she saw an empty Ponyville. The town always had something going on and to see it completely devoid of life was rather odd. She was about to turn around and go back to watering when she saw a pony.

However, what surprised her was that the pony was off the ground...and had no wings. "What in Celestia's name?" She rushed up to the window to get a better look. "Is that...a unicorn?" The pony was wrapped in a lavender aura that only seemed to darken his grey coat. His mane (a mix of grey with blue streaks) was all wet and clinging to parts of his face. Scootaloo squinted, trying to get a better look at the pony since he didn't look familiar.

He turned his head and looked straight at her. The unicorn smiled as he waved nonchalantly while continuing to float along. Scootaloo waved back, unsure what to think. She wanted to see the pony even closer to get a more detailed look, but the rain distorted the window and only allowed for basic colour and outline. She continued to watch the strange pony until he floated around a corner and disappeared in the torrent of water. "Wow..."

Scootaloo couldn't help but laugh at the strangeness of the random event she had just seen. "Definitely gonna have to ask the other Crusaders about this. Oh! Maybe Roseluck or Fluttershy has seen him around!" The young mare headed into the front area of the store, but saw it abandoned so headed into the office. Inside, she saw Fluttershy holding a small glass of cider in her hooves while Roseluck had her glass sitting on her desk.

"Heya Scoots. Care for a glass?" The young pegasus nodded and took the small glass filled with the beverage with a smile.

"Hey, I got a question for you two."

"What'cha got for us Scoots?" Scootaloo began to tell the other mares about the short encounter she had with the floating stallion and asked if they had seen him. "Don't know his name but I've seen him floating around...literally. Makes a good number of ponies stop and stare. Kind of funny really." Roseluck said with a smile before taking a sip of her cider.

"I've seen him too, but never floating. When I see him he's sitting around the outskirts of Ponyville reading or just...sitting there. He seems nice and he looks nice too." Fluttershy said, taking a small drink of the sweet beverage.

Roseluck laughed and said, "Yea...he is kind of pretty...in a feminine sort of way." The two pegasi couldn't help but laugh. As the rain poured on, the three mares continued to talk and drink cider and enjoy each others company. However, it was interrupted when Scootaloo yawned and lightly groaned, moving a hoof to her muzzle.

"Are you alright Scoots?" Roseluck asked, taking a closer look at her employee.

"Yea. I just got sucker punched earlier today and it's still a little sore."

"Why'd you get hit?" Fluttershy asked, her voice switching from relaxed to concerned as she inspected Scootaloo's face.

"There's this jerk in my class named Rumble who just won't leave me alone about my inability to fly. He thinks he can bug me by insulting me but I always manage to turn it around on him-"

"You show him." Roseluck said suddenly, making Scootaloo smile before she continued.

"Anyways, he tried to push me out of school but I dodged and he fell on the ground because of it. Well, after I got in and sat down, somepony said something and when I turned around, he sucker punched me. I couldn't retaliate because Burnt Oak walked in the door so all I could do was sit down."

"Oh you poor girl." Fluttershy said, moving over and pulling Scootaloo into a hug.

The young pony blushed lightly and said, "T-thanks but it's fine. I'll get him back eventually." Both Fluttershy and Roseluck spoke at the same time.

"No!"

"Yea!" The older ponies looked at each other. "If she doesn't do anything, he'll just keep it up." Roseluck explained.

"But she can't just hurt another pony!" Fluttershy replied, worry in her eyes.

Roseluck sighed and said, "I guess...but she can't just let it slide. Like I said, if she doesn't do SOMETHING at least then he's just gonna keep attacking her like that. That's how bullies work."

"She could tell her teacher." The timid pony suggested, tenderly rubbing Scootaloo's muzzle. The orange pegasus winced occasionally, but otherwise was relaxed and even leaned into the gentle massage.

"That'll only make it worse unfortunately. This Rumble kid will get in trouble and take it out on Scootaloo." Roseluck said quickly.

"I'm not some defenseless filly you know." Scootaloo mumbled.

"We know sweetie but we just don't want you to get in trouble." Fluttershy said to the young pony.

"And I'm grateful but I agree with Roseluck. I've gotta do something or else he'll never leave me alone. And I know exactly what I'm gonna do."

"What?" Fluttershy and Roseluck asked, both leaning a bit closer.

"I'm gonna fly." The older ponies smiled and leaned back in their chairs, with Fluttershy reluctantly letting go of the young pegasus. It wasn't long before the trio settled back down into a relaxed stated and laughing about various things. About an hour later, Scootaloo got off the chair she was on and stretched. "I'll be right back. I gotta use the little filly's room."

As soon as she was out of the office, Roseluck turned to Fluttershy and said, "Please Fluttershy, you're killing me here. I know you don't want to make a move or anything but please...at least allow yourself a little indulgence. It's tearing me up to see this." Fluttershy answered with silence as her gaze moved down to the floor. "If you don't, I'll MAKE it happen."

The pegasus's gaze shot up off the floor as she stared at Roseluck. Before Fluttershy could voice any objection, Scootaloo came back into the office.

"Any idea when the rain is supposed to let up? It still coming down pretty heavily."

"Well...since it was pushed back for so many days, it'll probably last until tomorrow morning." Fluttershy said, looking through the office door and out into the downpour. Roseluck looked out the window as well and nodded before she spoke.

"Seems that way. Tell ya both what; since it's obvious that nopony is going to go out into this rain, other than that strange floaty stallion, why don't you let me close up and we'll head into my home instead of hanging out here in the workplace."

"Are you sure? I mean, if you want I can leave." Fluttershy said quietly. However, a particularly loud burst of thunder made her leap out of her chair and into Scootaloo's chair, clinging to the younger pony.

"That's what I thought. Gimme a second and we can head on up." Roseluck walked out of the office and Fluttershy sheepishly let go of Scootaloo and got back onto the floor. Moments later, the creme coloured earth pony returned and ushered them into the door on the opposite side of the office. Roseluck opened it, revealing a staircase and ushered them to head up, where they walked through another door. "Welcome to my humble home." Roseluck said with a grin. "Honey? You off work yet?"

"I never opened up." A feminine voice called out from somewhere inside the home. The timid pegasus felt the urge to jump at sudden answer, but managed to hold her fear in check. Roseluck disappeared for a moment and returned with a light blue unicorn beside her.

"Girls, this is my marefriend of three years. Colgate, this is my employee Scootaloo and my friend Fluttershy."

The blue mare smiled, showing well cared for teeth and said, "Nice to meet you both. Can I get you two anything?"

"Can I have some apple slices?" The young pegasus asked, jumping on the chance for food. Colgate laughed and looked over to Fluttershy.

"I'm fine. Thank you though." The unicorn disappeared around the corner. "She's very beautiful." Fluttershy said.

"Flattery will get you everywhere." Colgate said, handing a few apple slices to the orange pony with her magic.

"Thank you." Scootaloo said, taking them into her mouth before looking for somewhere to sit down.

"Let's go into the living room." Roseluck said, leading the way.

The group all moved into the living room and as soon as they were all seated, Scootaloo immediately turned to Colgate and asked, "You seen a floating unicorn stallion before?" The whole group was silent as they turned to Colgate.

The dentist put her hoof to her chin in thought for a moment and said, "Well yea. He floats by the office every now and then as if he's a pegasus. It IS a little annoying because the pony I'll be working on will move their head to watch him and that makes it a little hard to continue doing whatever it is I'll be doing." They all laughed and conversation carried on like normal. Several hours later after Celestia's sun had neared the opposite end of the sky, the four mares moved into the kitchen to make dinner.

~~~

When dinner had been cooked and eaten, they all agreed to bake cinnamon rolls. However, after one too many "accidents" of frosting ending up on a pony's nose, a small war broke out and frosting began to fly. By the time a cease-fire had been called, the damage had been done.

Frosting was slowly crawling down the walls, manes were sticky and clinging to their faces, and there were large sticky patches of fur. The four ponies looked at each other...and fell to the floor laughing.

When the group could breath again, Roseluck said, "Okay...let me go get the tub full of water and Fluttershy and Scootaloo can wash themselves off while we stay out here and clean." Both pegasi were about to object, but Colgate cut them off.

"Hey girls, try this." Her horn flared up with magic and stuffed part of an already glazed cinnamon roll in their mouths, effectively stopping any protest. As they chewed, Fluttershy and Scootaloo looked at each other, both blushing lightly.

A minute later, Roseluck reappeared with a smile and said, "Alright, it's ready for you." As the pair walked past Roseluck, Fluttershy blushed darker when the earth pony winked at her. The two walked into the bathroom and both swallowed a huge lump in their throats.

Sleepover

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Neither pegasus could say anything as they avoided eye contact. "I-if you want, I can wait." Fluttershy suggested, breaking the awkward silence.

"No, it's al-alright. Besides, if we t-took turns, it would only take longer." Fluttershy nodded and allowed Scootaloo to settle into the warm water first. She moved towards one end of the tub and motioned for Fluttershy to join.

'Keep calm and carry on Fluttershy. You can do this.' The older pegasus took a deep breath and lowered herself into the water, her back pressed up against Scootaloo. It sent a shiver up and down her spine and she knew that Scootaloo could probably feel it. Instead of saying anything, the two proceeded to wash the sticky frosting off of them.

"Um...Fl-Fluttershy?"

"Yes?" The yellow pegasus turned and saw an adorable blush on Scootaloo's face.

"C-can you wash my back? There is some glaze there but I can't seem to reach it."

"Oh, um...of course. Hold on a moment." Fluttershy turned slowly and saw that Scootaloo had her wings stretched out.

"It feels like it's right between my wings." Fluttershy took a quiet breath and slowly stretched her hooves out and hesitantly began to rub the spot between the younger pegasus's wings. Scootaloo bit her bottom as soon as she felt hooves touch her, a light pleasure running through her body.

'Wow...her coat is really soft...' Fluttershy noted as she scrubbed and massaged the younger pony's back as she searched for glaze.

'Can't...make...noise...' Scootaloo thought as Fluttershy scrubbed the glaze off. The two continued to sit in silence with the occasional small squeak from Scootaloo as Fluttershy's hooves passed around her wings.

'This is nice...but why can't it be Rainbow doing this?' Scootaloo mumbled mentally as Fluttershy continued. After a few more minutes (which was slow for both ponies, but for different reasons) the older pegasus sighed.

"I'm sorry..." Fluttershy finally said, lowering her hooves.

"What're you sorry for?" Scootaloo asked, not daring to turn due to the dark redness she knew was on her cheeks.

"I'm obviously making you uncomfortable and I don't mean to." Scoots heard the sound of water rushing back down into the tub, telling her that Fluttershy was trying to exit the bath.

"Fluttershy, it's alright. I'm just... a little nervous is all. Like I said before, I'm not used to other ponies touching my wings or around the joints. It feels really good though, I promise."

Fluttershy smiled despite knowing that Scootaloo wouldn't turn around and lowered herself back into the water and resumed washing the orange pony's back. So while Fluttershy washed Scootaloo's back, she hummed a light melody.

Scootaloo was thankful that the older pony was distracted and wouldn't hear her light moans. 'Dang it...if she keeps this up, I'm gonna lose it!' Scootaloo thought worriedly. She needed to make the older pegasus stop somehow.

After a few seconds of thought, Scootaloo spoke.

"What song is that if you don't mind me asking?" She asked, hoping to distract Fluttershy into stopping.

"Hmm? Oh, it's just a little song I like to hum from time to time for my animals. I don't know the name of it or where it comes from, but my dad used to hum it for me when I was a filly."

"Oh...well...it's really pretty." Scootaloo replied.

"Thank you." Fluttershy said happily, continuing the scrubbing. 'Oh man...I can feel my control about to slip...' Much to Scootaloo's relief, Fluttershy lowered her hooves.

"There you go; all clean." The care-taker gave Scoots a light pat on the head.

'My turn.' Scootaloo thought mischievously. "Thanks Fluttershy. Now turn around and let me clean you." Now it was Fluttershy's turn to blush.

"Oh, t-that's alright. You don't-" Fluttershy began to say, but the younger pony cut her off.

"No, I insist. It's only fair that I clean you after you cleaned me." Fluttershy swallowed a lump in her throat and turned around, praying to Luna that she could control herself since she was a lot like Scootaloo in the fact that not many ponies touched her wings.

Seconds later, she shuddered in delight as Scootaloo began to rub her back looking for smudges of glaze. 'Just bite your lip and close your eyes.' Fluttershy told herself. However, it didn't help as Scootaloo's hooves haphazardly searched for glaze that may not have even been on her back. The younger pony randomly applied pressure at spots she thought there was frosting, causing Fluttershy to stiffen slightly every time it happened.

'Heh, this is kind of fun. Nice too...I wonder if Dash would ever let me do this to her?' Scootaloo thought with a smile.

"S-Scootaloo...I th-think that's good."

"You sure?" To punctuate her sentence, Scootaloo pressed right between Fluttershy's wing joints and pushed upwards. The result was a loud "Eep!" from the older pony as she spun around and grabbed Scootaloo's shoulders.

"Y-yes! I'm s-sure!" Scootaloo saw the blush on Fluttershy's face and the look in her eyes and only one thought ran through her mind.

'Holy Celestia...she's cute when she's flustered.' Scootaloo slowly felt a blush crawl onto her face as she continued to gaze upon Fluttershy's face and the older pony couldn't help but thing the same thought.

~~~

After Fluttershy and Scootaloo had been sent away into the bathroom, Roseluck smiled and began to wipe the glaze off the floor. She couldn't help but swing her hips as she scrubbed the deliciously sticky substance off the floor while a tune ran through her head.

"Honey, we have guests. Don't taunt me like that." was heard before snap! and Roseluck's head shot up as a light pain flared from her flank. She turned and saw Colgate mischievously holding a rag with her magic.

"I'm taunting you huh?"

"Yes. It's very...distracting to watch you clean." Colgate said, lowering the rag.

"Then turn away." Roseluck suggested, a smile of her own growing.

"And what are you going to do if I don't?"

"Hmm...what AM I going to do to a sexy mare who has the audacity to look at my flank whilst I clean?" With each word Roseluck spoke, she took a step closer to Colgate, backing the unicorn up against the wall until the blue pony was forced to stand on her back legs, her back pressed up against the wall. Roseluck pinned her lover with hooves on both sides of Colgate and licked her lips. "I think this will have to suffice."

The earth pony leaned forward with closed eyes and gently pressed her muzzle to her lover's fur. Then, she opened her mouth just a bit and let her tongue snake out to lick a patch of matted blue fur.

Colgate inhaled sharply as Roseluck drug her tongue down over the sweetened patch. After licking the spot for a few minutes, Roseluck moved on and every time Colgate moved, the creme pony would bite down, earning herself a heated moan from the dentist. Roseluck could practically hear the desperation in the pinned mare's voice as she begged for more.

Rose moved her head away from a glazed patch of fur and got her face close to Colgate's ear and whispered, "Like you said...we have guests."

"But Rose...that's just mean..." Roseluck chuckled and lowered herself back onto the ground with Colgate following close behind, her breathing laboured and heavy.

"Now come on, we've got to-" Roseluck couldn't finish her sentence as she was grabbed with magic and turned around only to be tackled to the floor and have her lips assaulted with hot, hungry kisses from the dentist. 'Heh...this could get bad.'

Roseluck thought as she fought to gain dominance in her own mouth. However, whenever the pinned earth pony attempted any movement, Colgate would simply push her back down with magic.

The mock battle lasted for a good number of minutes. However, a light cough brought the two back to reality and they saw the two damp pegasus standing in the hallway, a dark blush on both of their faces. Colgate leapt off of Roseluck, a blush of her own gracing her face. Nopony spoke as Roseluck rolled onto her stomach and got to her hooves. Finally, the earth pony spoke.

"Umm...Colgate started it."

"M-me?! You're the one who backed me against the wall and teased me!"

"Which wouldn't have happened if you wouldn't have snapped my flank with the rag."

"Well if you wouldn't swing your hips back and forth and made yourself so distracting-" The mini argument was interrupted by Scootaloo trying to hide her laughter. However, she did a poor job of it and ended up falling to the floor, laughing aloud. Then, it was Roseluck who started laughing, followed by Colgate, and finally Fluttershy.

When the mares had finished laughing, they all cleaned the kitchen and moved into the living room. They lit a fire and thanks to Colgate's magic, no water traveled down the chimney to water down the fire.

Roseluck hopped up onto one couch and patted the spot before her. Colgate smiled and quickly took the spot and the next moment was spent with the two getting comfortable. 'They look so...natural together like that.' Fluttershy thought, a small tinge of jealousy rushing though her mind. 'Roseluck, I know what you're doing.'

Fluttershy crawled up onto the opposite couch and wondered how else Roseluck was going to "make" Fluttershy indulge herself. "Hey Scoots, why don't you take a seat with Fluttershy instead of on the floor." The florist said as Scootaloo planted her bum on the ground.

'Oh...that's how.'

"I dunno...that's really up to Fluttershy." The yellow pegasus was about to speak, but Roseluck cut her off.

"Of course she won't mind! Besides, I bet her wing would keep you pretty warm." Scootaloo turned and Fluttershy could do nothing but offer a light smile. Scootaloo crawled up onto the couch and within seconds she was lying comfortably against Fluttershy with a yellow wing draped over her.

"Thank you Fluttershy."

"Y-you're welcome." Fluttershy looked directly at Roseluck and saw a coy smile on her lips. Fluttershy simply smiled back but was a little upset that her friend would do this to her.

'I know she means well...but I still feel bad...if this kind of thing keeps up, I may just take her from Rainbow...' Fluttershy hid her unhappiness behind Scootaloo's head as the youngest pony started the conversation.

For the rest of the evening, the four sat there sharing various stories ranging from stories of Scootaloo's school to Colgate's dentist office. At one point, Colgate looked the pair of pegasus over and smiled before saying, "You two look really cute together." The fliers blushed and looked each other in the eyes for a few moments before looking away.

"T-that's nice of you to say, but I don't think Fluttershy is interested in me like that. I mean, I'm pretty rowdy and wild and a lot like Rainbow Dash and I really don't think Fluttershy would appreciate having me as a marefriend. Right?" Scootaloo said, chuckling as she tried to force the blush away.

"Y-yea..." Roseluck could see the pain in Fluttershy's eyes and desperately wanted to do something for the poor pegasus.

'Maybe I shouldn't have told Colgate to say that...She looks even worse now.'

"Oh! That reminds me. Fluttershy, I know how I'm going to repay you for taking care of me when I was really sore." The yellow pegasus was silent, allowing Scootaloo to continue. "I'm gonna take you on a walk through Canterlot and maybe get some lunch while we're there."

"That sounds nice, but you don't have to-" Scoots cut off the older flier.

"Nope. I don't wanna hear you reject. Please?"

"Well..." Fluttershy saw Roseluck staring right at her and subtly nodding her head.

"Do it!" The florist mouthed as Scootaloo was looking at Fluttershy with a pouting lip.

"Alright. It'd have to be in the afternoon though."

Scootaloo grinned and said, "That's fine. That'll give me time to get myself figured out." Fluttershy nodded and conversation continued on like normal.

However, when one o' clock rolled around, Scootaloo yawned and Colgate said, "Perhaps we should all be getting to bed. Come on, we'll show you to the guest room."

Roseluck nodded, allowing for her lover to climb off the couch before heading to the master bedroom while the dentist showed the way to the guest bedroom. "You'll have to um...share the bed. We don't have a whole lot of room. Sorry."

"That's alright. I can sleep on the floor and-"

"Don't be ridiculous Fluttershy. We can share the bed." Fluttershy was silent as a light blush came to her face. Colgate opened the door to a moderate sized room, with a few decorations to keep the room lively.

"Thank you Colgate." Fluttershy said quietly.

"No problem. Good night you two."

"G'night Miss Colgate." The dentist chuckled and headed back down the hall to her room where her lover was waiting.

"That poor girl. I wish we could do something for her." Colgate said with a sigh.

Roseluck sighed as well and crawled into the bed before she said, "I know, but she doesn't want to stand in the way of Scootaloo's love for Rainbow Dash."

"I've seen Rainbow a few times and I can honestly say that Fluttershy is so much better for her!"

"I know." Colgate crawled into the bed as well and right into the waiting hooves of her marefriend.

"Are you sure we can't do anything for them?" The dentist asked with concern.

"I'm not sure love...I'm not sure."

The pair sighed and snuggled close to each other and Roseluck whispered, "I love ya."

"I love you too."

~~~

After Colgate had left, Scootaloo looked around the room and flapped her wings a few times before saying, "Alright, so which side of the bed you want?"

"Oh...it doesn't matter. I'll just take whichever side you don't take." Scootaloo nodded and crawled into the bed.

"Wow...this bed is really comfy despite it being small."

"The size of the bed doesn't matter. This bed looks about the same size as the one I have at my home." The older pegasus said, crawling into the bed. It was silent for a few minutes before Scootaloo spoke.

"It must be really lonely at your home...I mean, you said all of your animals have pretty much moved out right?"

Fluttershy sighed heavily and said, "Yes. It does get quite lonely out at the cottage since a lot of animals don't need help like they used to. All that's left is my little Angel Bunny, a few squirrels, a wolf cub, and Star."

Scootaloo was quiet for a moment and said, "How is Star?"

"She misses you. Every day she sits at the window and watches for you."

Fluttershy felt Scootaloo move a little closer before she said, "I miss her too and I want to come see her but I've just been busy...plus with my training now..." Scootaloo sighed and spun around in the bed to face the older pegasus. "Can I come see her tomorrow?"

"I'm sure she'd love that." Scootaloo smiled and nuzzled Fluttershy's chest, making the yellow pony blush. Slowly, Fluttershy wrapped her hooves around Scootaloo. The older pegasus expected for the younger mare to back away or to push her away, but instead Scootaloo sighed in content and was asleep moments later.

Fluttershy sighed quietly and softly rubbed Scootaloo's mane, resisting the urge to cry. 'This may be the only chance I'll ever have to be like this with her...' As the night wore on, Fluttershy tried her hardest to not fall asleep and lose the opportunity to cuddle with the pony she loved. However, at around three, Fluttershy fell asleep.

She had passed out holding Scootaloo as close as she could, fearing that it may all turn out to be a dream and that the young mare would be gone when she woke up.

~~~

When Roseluck woke up later that morning, she found that Colgate had already left the bed. The florist rolled around in the bed for a few minutes, stretching and yawning before rolling out of bed and heading to the kitchen. When she walked in, she saw the blue unicorn humming as she cooked some kind of breakfast.

"Good morning my love." The creme coloured earth pony said, wrapping a hoof around her lover and pulling her into a kiss. "The girls up yet?"

"I haven't seen them so I'm assuming they aren't. Would you mind going and waking them up?"

"Sure." Roseluck gave Colgate one more kiss before heading to the guest bedroom. She knocked lightly before cracking open the door. Inside, she saw the two pegasus ponies sleeping soundly and that Fluttershy's hooves were wrapped protectively around Scootaloo. The two seemed like the perfect couple in that moment. So, Roseluck just quietly shut the door and left the two alone.

"You wake 'em up?"

"I couldn't. They just looked so peaceful together and the way I see it, this may be one of the only times Fluttershy will get to hold Scootaloo like that so why not let her enjoy it?"

"You're sweet." Colgate said, adding a few things to the oatmeal she was making.

"And that's why ya love me."

The unicorn giggled and said, "Let's not forget your overwhelming modesty." Roseluck rolled her eyes and took a seat at the table.

~~~

When Scootaloo woke up, she didn't open her eyes. She was much too warm and much too comfortable to move. "I don't usually remember my bed being this warm..." she mumbled lightly before snuggling closer to the source of warmth. However, the longer that Scootaloo was near the heat, she began to notice something. There was the slight feeling of something rising and falling in front of her accompanied by the sound of what might've been breathing.

Plus, whatever was covering her didn't feel like just a blanket. Whenever she moved, Scootaloo felt a slight tickle. So, she finally opened her eyes and a quiet gasp left her lips as a massive blush rose to her cheeks. She was resting in Fluttershy's hooves with her face practically nestled in her chest and with a wing wrapped around her.

'Oh...wow...this is really...nice.' The young pegasus thought. Scootaloo smiled and just laid there, relaxed and allowing her thoughts to drift. 'I wonder if it'll be like this whenever I get with Rainbow...I mean, it won't be the same obviously. Fluttershy is really calm, she's quiet, she doesn't judge...she's smart...While Rainbow Dash is just as nice and smart, she's kind of loud when she sleeps and has the potential to be calm, but it doesn't really suit her...'

Scootaloo's thoughts were interrupted as Fluttershy took a deep breath and pulled Scootaloo closer, sighing happily. This sparked a thought within the young pony's mind. 'What if me and Fluttershy got together instead of me and Rainbow Dash? Would that even be possible? I mean...there's no way that she'd want to put up with a pony like me. I'm brash, I can't fly, most adult ponies can barely stand me...I'm a lot like Rainbow Dash...There's absolutely no way that Fluttershy would even CONSIDER hooking up with me. She could do so much better than me.'

Scootaloo couldn't stop the sigh that escaped her lips. She had brought herself down into a strange sort of sadness: a sadness from the thought that she couldn't be with Fluttershy. "But it makes no sense...I want to be with Rainbow Dash. So why is this making me so sad?" She whispered to herself.

"Huh?" Scootaloo froze when Fluttershy spoke up. "Did you say something?" The yellow pegasus asked, her speech slightly slow from her just waking up.

"N-no. I didn't say anything."

"Oh...alright." Scootaloo felt herself being snuggled tightly again as Fluttershy began to go back to sleep. The yellow mare mumbled something before closing her eyes again.

"Umm...Fluttershy?"

"Hmm?"

"Don't you think we should get up?" It took Fluttershy a moment before she remembered that she wasn't in her own bed.

"Oh! Right." That's when the older pegasus noticed that she had her hooves wrapped around the younger in a loving embrace. "I'm sorry!" Fluttershy said, quickly taking her hooves back and rolling off the bed.

"I-it's alright. I mean...I was pretty warm and happy so it's all good."

"R-right..." Fluttershy fought down the blush that wanted to make itself known. When the two were ready, the left the room and followed the sweet smell that hung in the air.

"What's that amazing smell?" Scootaloo asked as soon as she was in the light of the kitchen.

"That would be my lovely unicorn's famous cinnamon strawberry oatmeal."

"Well...it's not famous, but it's certainly delicious!" Colgate said, levitating two bowls to the table.

"Thank you Colgate." Fluttershy said before she began eating.

"Yea, thanks!" Scootaloo said quickly as she started eating. The dentist simply smiled as the two ate, their appreciation showing on their faces.

"Is it still raining out?" Fluttershy asked as she finished her oatmeal, glancing out the nearby window.

"Yea. It's not as heavy as it was yesterday, so it looks like it'll be stopping soon." Roseluck said, taking a look out the window as well. Fluttershy nodded and got up to wash her bowl.

"Wow...that's some serious storm power. I can't WAIT until I'm able to help make the weather!" Scootaloo said, finishing off the rest of her food. "I hate to be a bother...but is there any more of that stuff?" Roseluck and Colgate laughed and the unicorn answered by setting a full bowl in front of the young pegasus.

"Eat as much as you like."

"Thanks!" Scootaloo immediately dug into her next bowl and while she ate, the older ponies talked about the weather. Scootaloo had another two bowls before she joined in on the conversation. Finally, around one, a small ray of sunshine through the overcast sky.

"Well, looks like the rain stopped. However, the roads'll be made of pure mud for a few more hours." Roseluck said, stepping away from the window.

"I hope my animal friends made it through the storm alright..." Fluttershy glanced out the same window as the earth pony, a look of concern in her eyes.

"Well...why don't you fly out there and check? I mean, you'd be able to stay in the air as you went from place to place and when you finished, you could just come back here." Scootaloo suggested.

"That's a great idea! Thank you Scootaloo." Fluttershy hugged the orange pony before opening the window and taking flight to head to wherever her friends were.

As soon as the yellow pegasus was gone, Roseluck turned to Scootaloo and said, "So, how'd ya sleep?" A small blush came to Scootaloo's face.

"Pretty good. How about you?"

"Fantastically. But then again, I always sleep well with my soulmate. Don't I love?"

"I'm surprised I can get up with you holding me so tightly." Colgate said with a warm smile.

Roseluck smiled and sauntered up to Colgate before saying, "I can't help it. I just never wanna let you go." She glanced back at Scootaloo before planting a kiss on Colgate's lips. The dentist chuckled against her lover's lips and pulled away.

"I love you."

"Love ya too. Now, Scoots...I wanna ask you a serious question."

"Alright, what's your question?"

Roseluck took a few breaths before looking Scootaloo straight in the eyes and asked, "Do you really love Rainbow Dash?" The orange pony was taken aback by the question and nearly fell off her chair in surprise.

"Of course! You know how I feel about her so why do you need to ask?"

"Tell me again." Scootaloo couldn't believe that Roseluck was acting so...serious. No smile had started to form, there was no hint of her just kidding behind her eyes; she was stone-faced and serious.

"W-well...She's amazing, she's talented...She cares about other ponies, she's loyal, graceful, beautiful...she speaks her mind, she doesn't let anypony walk over her..."

"I don't mean like that. Tell me what sets your heart on fire whenever Rainbow Dash is around you." Scootaloo nodded and thought for a moment.

"When she's around me, it feels like I could go for hours on end just hanging out with her and spending time with her...everything just seems like it'll go right."

"To me that sounds like hanging out with a good friend or with an older sister." Scootaloo frowned, her confusion quickly turning to anger.

"What do you know! It's different for me and her! She understands my problem and wants to help me! She truly cares about me flying while the rest of you don't!" With that, Scootaloo jumped out of the chair and headed down the stairs that would lead out of the building.

"Scoots wait!"

"No!"

"Scootaloo, stop!" However, the young pony had already unlocked the door.

"I don't want to hear another word! You're just like the girls; "Oh, it's just infatuation, it isn't a real love". Well I'll show you all that this is true love!" Scootaloo threw the door open and slammed it behind her, storming off despite the muddy roads. Roseluck stood on the threshold of her home, Colgate beside her with a hoof over her mouth.

"Should we-"

"No. If she wants to be stubborn and act like a child, then let her. If she can't see what's in front of her, then she'll learn the hard way." Roseluck said, a small frown on her lips.

"Surely you don't mean that." The florist sighed and hung her head.

"No...but she's not going to listen to anypony about this. She's too headstrong and once she's got her head wrapped around an idea, Scootaloo's gonna stick with it." Colgate put a hoof on Roseluck's back and slowly rubbed it.

"C'mon...we need to get back upstairs and wait for Fluttershy." Roseluck just nodded and allowed herself to be led back upstairs.

~~~

Scootaloo grumbled under her breath about how she thought Roseluck was her friend and about how she was going to show them all. "Hey."

"I said I don't-" Scootaloo turned, her voice already climbing to a shouting tone when she saw a familiar cyan pegasus hovering above her. "Rainbow? What're you doing out?"

"I was worried when I woke up and you weren't in bed this morning, so I've been flying around lookin' for ya." Rainbow swooped down and grabbed Scootaloo out of the mud and headed for a nearby water source that the young pegasus could use to wash herself off. "Where were you anyways?"

Scootaloo's brow furrowed and she said, "I don't wanna talk about it."

"Um...alright. Well...get yourself washed and we'll head back home alright?"

"Okay..." Rainbow was confused. Usually Scootaloo became immediately happy at the sight of her, but at the moment, the young pegasus seemed a little...pissed off and numb all at the same time. After a few minutes of watching Scootaloo scrub mud off of herself, Dash asked if she was ready. "Yea...let's go home." Rainbow nodded and picked up Scootaloo once again and headed for home.

'I gotta do something to get her to open up. Seeing her like this is kinda depressing.' Dash thought as she hovered near the front door. She turned and kicked it just hard enough for the door to open and allow them entrance. Scootaloo hopped out of Rainbow's grip and stood still for a moment before heading upstairs. "Where're you going?"

"I kinda just wanna be alone right now. Sorry."

"'Sall good. Before you head up though...are you alright? I mean, do you need to talk about anything?"

Dash could've swore she saw a tear glimmer in Scootaloo's eyes before she said, "No...but thank you Rainbow Dash. I'll see ya later." Scootaloo turned away and continued up the stairs.

"Um...no problem." The prismatic pony waited until she heard the bedroom door open and close before she landed on the couch.

"Weird... Maybe I should go up there and sit with her for awhile..." Dash thought it over for a few minutes before she sighed. "No. She said she wanted to be alone, so I'll leave her alone. I know I HATE to be bothered when I just wanna be alone." So, the rainbow maned pony curled up and opened the Daring Do book she had brought and immersed herself in a world of adventure.

~~~

Scootaloo plopped down on the bed and scolded herself for letting tears stream from her eyes. "They don't know her like I do...I know it'll work out between us." She muttered into her pillow, wiping the tears away as she did. The young pony lay within the softly glowing room for hours and eventually passed out.

~~~

When she woke up, she glanced over at her clock with a sluggish speed. "Two..."
Scootaloo laid there for a few more minutes before rolling off the bed and headed out into her home.

When she made it downstairs, the orange pegasus was surprised to see Fluttershy sitting on the couch, worry etched onto her face. "Fluttershy? What're you doin' here?" Scootaloo asked, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

"Oh, you're up." Fluttershy hovered over and pulled Scootaloo into a hug. "When Roseluck told me you had left, I flew over here as fast as I could. However, Rainbow told me that you had gone to your room to be alone so I've been waiting until you came down."

"Thanks, I guess...but why're you so concerned?"

"Well...Roseluck told me what happened..." Fluttershy said with a sad look in her eyes. However, Scootaloo's eyes sharpened and she narrowed them as she pulled herself away from the yellow pony's embrace.

"What does she know? I'll get Rainbow Dash and when I do, they'll all be sorry they doubted me."

"Why are they going to be sorry? If anything, they'll be happy for you." Scootaloo's look when from upset to confused. "What I mean is, they'll be happy that you were able to find a pony who loves you back and is willing to be with you..." Fluttershy explained, trying her hardest to hold back the tears that wanted to rush forth from her eyes. Realization dawned on Scootaloo as the words sunk in.

"You mean...they'll accept that I was right and be happy about it despite the fact that it means that they were wrong?" Fluttershy nodded.

"So...oh man...I need to apologize to Roseluck when I go to work later..." Scootaloo said, hanging her head. "And I was so mean to her before I left...I hope she can forgive me."

Fluttershy walked over and lifted Scootaloo's head before saying, "I know she will. She's your friend and that's what friends do; they forgive each other." Scootaloo smiled and hugged Fluttershy.

"Thanks Fluttershy...I'm really glad that you're my friend." Even thought Fluttershy knew what Scootaloo had meant, that statement had felt like a thousand blades had just been shoved into her heart.

'Just...a friend...that's all I am...and that's all I'll ever be...' Never in her life had Fluttershy ever wanted to cry so hard. However, she had to hide it for Scootaloo's sake. 'She'll be much happier with Rainbow Dash. I have to accept that.' Fluttershy sighed mentally and saw that Scootaloo was staring at her.

"Umm...are you okay? You just kind of blanked out there for a minute."

"Y-yea...I'm alright. Oh! That reminds me...are you ready to go see Star?"

"Of course! I have to go to work at four-thirty though." Scootaloo said with a grin. So, Fluttershy stepped out, grabbed Scootaloo, and headed for her cottage.

Surprise in Canterlot

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When the pair arrived, Scootaloo hopped out of Fluttershy's hooves and ran to the door. She opened it up and as soon as it had opened, the orange pegasus was knocked to the ground and laughed as she was assaulted with licks from a happy animal. "Star! I missed you!" Scootaloo said, rolling around on the ground while holding the fox close to her chest.

The fox barked and yipped, her tail wagging quickly back and forth in excitement. Fluttershy smiled as she walked up to her home and seeing the pair roll around. "I told you she missed you." She said as she walked past the duo and headed into the kitchen.

While Fluttershy tended to her animals, Scootaloo played with Star, filling in the fox of everything that had happened to her up until the current moments. Scootaloo had to whisper through parts of it so as not to alarm Fluttershy or cause the yellow pony to get upset. "So as you can tell, I'm in quite a jam...but on the plus side, I'm making progress with Rainbow."

Star yipped happily for her pony friend, her tail swishing back and forth. "C'mon. Let's go help Fluttershy before I have to go to work." The fox nodded and for the next hour and a half, the pair helped Fluttershy with what few animals were living in the cottage and with whatever else she had them do. However, as four-ten rolled around, Scootaloo gave Star a big hug and said, "I'll be back to visit when I can alright?"

Star pulled away and looked at Scootaloo with pain in her eyes. "I know that's what I said last time...and I'm really sorry it took me so long to come back out here but I promise that I'll be back sooner and hopefully...with a surprise." Star regarded the young pegasus for a moment before licking her cheek. "Thanks Star." The fox barked in response, wagging her tail slowly.

"I'll catch you later Fluttershy!" Scootaloo said, taking off for town.

"Be careful!" Fluttershy called out after her, watching until Scootaloo was but a speck in the distance. The yellow pegasus sighed and looked at Star. "I wonder what her surprise is. Guess we'll just have to wait and find out huh?" Star just wagged her tail as she turned her gaze to Fluttershy.

~~~

Scootaloo burst in through the doors of the flower shop, scaring the pony behind the counter. "Daisy! Where's Roseluck?" The addressed pony simply frowned and turned her nose. "Please Daisy, I need to talk to Rose."

"You can later. You're here to work, not chat." Scootaloo sighed heavily and just headed into the back.

'Crap...Ugh! I'm such an idiot!' The pegasus mentally berated herself as the hours slowly ticked by. If there wasn't so much work to be done, Scootaloo probably would've started to beat her head on the wall in frustration at herself. When eight rolled around, Scootaloo took a small break, sitting at the back of the greenhouse as she usual did when she wanted to be alone.

"Scootaloo." The orange pony nearly jumped at the sudden voice. She turned and saw the lead florist.

"Roseluck! I'm so-" The earth pony held up her hoof, making Scootaloo stop.

"Listen Scoots...about earlier...I wanted to apologize. I had no right to attack you like that and I just wanted to say that I'm sorry."

"No, it's me who should apologize. I mean, you were just giving your opinion and you have every right to and instead I just blew up on you." The two ponies looked at each other in silence before a small smile appeared on Roseluck's face while Scootaloo held back a snicker. Seconds later, the two were hugging and laughing loudly.

"So I take it that we forgive each other?" Roseluck asked, taking a seat next to Scootaloo.

"Of course. I mean, if I didn't, I'd probably lose my paycheck."

Roseluck chuckled again and said, "Even if I wanted to do that, it's illegal and I'd get arrested for it. But in all seriousness though, I stand by what I said. I honestly think you'd be better off with another pony. But hey, if you can make it work, then I'll stand by ya."

"Thanks Roseluck. That means a lot to me." The two sat in silence for a good ten minutes before Scootaloo hopped off and said, "Well...it's almost closing time...guess I better get things tidied up so I can get home. I have to plan for mine and Fluttershy's trip to Canterlot tomorrow."

"Nah, I'll clean up. You go ahead and go home." Scootaloo smiled and thanked the older pony before heading home. When the young pegasus walked through the door, she was nearly tackled off her hooves.

"You ready for tomorrow?"

"R-Rainbow? What do you mean?" The cyan pegasus gave her a look of confusion as she moved off of Scootaloo.

"Umm...you said that after Friday, which is today, that Spring Break was starting. So that means we're going to be starting the serious part of your training tomorrow!"

"B-but...I can't." Rainbow did nothing to hide her irritation.

"Why not? You said you wanted me to help you, but every time I suggest we train, you weasel your way out of it. I'm starting to think you don't really want me to help you. I think you just want to waste my time!"

"That's not true! I really do want you help and I love that you're taking time out of your personal life to help me but I have something that I NEED to do."

"Yea right. What could you possibly have to do that's more important that training?"

"Well...I promised Fluttershy that I'd repay her after she helped me." Rainbow's glare changed from anger to skepticism. "It's true! Why would I lie to you Dash? I have nothing to gain from angering you. Please believe me."

"Well...alright. But only because you're my friend and I don't wanna see you upset." Scootaloo blushed hotly and looked away.

"T-thanks."

Rainbow hugged Scootaloo and said, "No problem. But seriously, we're starting on Sunday no matter what."

Scoots nodded and said, "Well...guess I should be getting to bed." Scootaloo moved away from Rainbow and began walking upstairs.

"Yea...I could go for some sleep too." The orange pony smiled and continued on with Dash behind her. When Scoots pushed open the bedroom door, she was picked up in a flying tackle and pushed down onto the bed. The blush Scootaloo had just gotten rid of immediately found it's way back onto her face as Rainbow looked down at her, a grin on her lips.

Scootaloo herself couldn't stop the chuckle that left her mouth as prismatic locks tickled her face. "Hey squirt...I just wanted to thank you. For letting me stay here I mean...I know I didn't ask or anything, but you've been cool about it."

"A-anything for you Rainbow." The two remained like that for a few minutes, their eyes locked onto each other as they gazed at one another. 'C'mon Scootaloo! Just kiss her already! You can do this!' Scootaloo cried out in her mind. The orange pegasus steeled herself as she closed her eyes and puckered her lips. However, when she pressed forward, Dash had already snuggled into the bed and was under the blanket.

With a defeated sigh, Scootaloo crawled on the bed until she was situated on her side and brought the covers over her head. She sighed quietly and simply laid in the darkness. At time wore on, she couldn't even tell if she had fallen asleep or not with the whole room being shrouded with shadows. Scootaloo rolled over to one side, and then the other as she attempted to sleep (or return to sleep).

However, her body was restless and her mind was racing. 'Ugh, I need to go for a walk or something.' The young pegasus thought as she carefully rolled out of bed and headed downstairs. She glanced at the clock on the wall as she headed out and saw that it was one-thirty nine. "What's with these late nights? This is getting kind of ridiculous."

The orange pegasus said after walking in silence for what she guessed was an hour. "Well...at least I can look at the night sky for as long as I want." Scootaloo said, admiring the various constellations, the stars themselves, and even just how the sky seemed dark but still held an ethereal glow of blue.

"Admiring my night again dear Scootaloo?" The young pegasus turned and smiled as Princess Luna lowered herself down onto the ground.

"Of course Princess." Luna chuckled softly as she tucked her wings back against her side.

"So why are you up so late once again?"

"I can't sleep. Or...I don't think I can. I tried and I have no clue as to whether I slept or not."

"Well, I can assure you that you did get a little rest." The Night Princess said as she looked down at the younger pony.

Scootaloo sighed in relief and said, "That's good. I don't want to be tired for mine and Fluttershy's day out tomorrow." Luna nodded and the pair walked in silence for awhile. "Hey Princess? Can I ask you something?"

"But of course. And please, call me Luna." Scootaloo nodded before she asked her question.

"You can see into ponies' dreams and control them right?"

"I can see and interact with a pony in their dream as I'm sure you remember from long ago."

"Yea! When I went camping with Rainbow Dash and the girls." The lunar princess nodded and continued.

"However, I cannot control a pony's dream, merely...shift small pieces. You see, everypony knows subconsciously when magic is invading their minds, which is why you don't see any unicorns controlling other ponies: because it doesn't work. When a pony's mind detects that magic, their subconscious begins to push it out and erase all traces of tampering.

That's why I can only get away with changing small things like moving a rock or making a small gap appear. When I do change something big like creating a bridge over a large crevasse, it will quickly decay and it will be like it never existed. Does that make sense?" Scootaloo sighed and nodded.

"Why did you want to know?"

"I was just wondering if you could let me get more sleep by letting me dream normally or by taking away the nightmares or by changing the nightmares INTO dreams..." Scootaloo had stopped and the Princess of the Night looked down at the distraught pegasus.

"I've noticed your string of nightmares and I do wish I could change them for the better, but only you can change them. Your mind is focused on something that you yourself have yet to realize and until you do, these dreams will most likely continue." The orange pony sighed and looked up at the sky, seeing twinklings stars as well as the moon itself.

Once again, silence overtook the pair. It wasn't unwanted by either pony as they both knew that they didn't have to say anything to enjoy each others company. Scootaloo became lost in thought as they walked, allowing her hooves to simply lead her where they wished. It wasn't until Luna lightly shook her that Scootaloo returned to reality. "Where are we?" She asked, looking to the midnight blue alicorn.

Instead of answering, Luna simply pointed ahead and Scoots followed to where the hoof was pointing. "Wow." Ahead of them in the distance was the back of Fluttershy's cottage, standing out against the horizon. "How did we...when did..." Scootaloo was confused as to how they had ended up where they were.

"I'm not entirely sure myself. I simply followed you as I thought you knew where you were heading."

Scootaloo shook her head and said, "N-no. I was lost in thought this whole time." Luna chuckled and placed a hoof softly on top of Scootaloo's head.

"Perhaps we are here for a reason? Is there any reason at all why you would lead yourself here on accident?" Scootaloo searched the depths of her mind, but she came up empty.

"Not that I can think of. I mean, I don't really need to be here until later." Again, Luna simply nodded. The older pony looked up at the sky while the younger looked down at the ground. "Hey Prin- I mean, Luna?"

"Hmm?"

"Can I tell you something personal?"

"Of course." Luna said, looking down at Scootaloo.

"Promise you won't laugh." Scootaloo said, looking straight into the sapphire eyes of the Night Princess.

Luna stood there for a moment, as if contemplating something before smiling and said, "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Scootaloo was surprised that Luna even KNEW how to recite a Pinkie Promise, let alone know the actions to go along with it. The orange pegasus gave a light chuckle before she took a deep breath.

"Well...Yesterday night I was staying with my friend Roseluck and her marefriend at their home. Me and Fluttershy got stuck there during the storm and so we spent the night. Anyways, when I woke up the next morning...I was being hugged by Fluttershy. Not like a normal hug, but like in an embrace. It was like she never wanted to let me go and it got me to thinking.

Normally, I picture myself with Rainbow Dash, but at that moment, I wondered what would happen if I actually got with Fluttershy instead of Rainbow Dash. I figured that since I was so much like Dash that Fluttershy wouldn't want to be with me since I was so rowdy and for some reason...I got kinda upset at the thought." Luna was silent as she listened, but her mind was not.

'Perhaps I was right and she truly DOES care for Fluttershy. That would explain the nightmares as well. She is conflicted about who she really wants to be with, despite the fact that she isn't aware of her affection for Fluttershy yet.' Luna broke away from her thoughts and saw that Scootaloo was looking up at her. "Perhaps you care for Fluttershy more than you realize." Luna suggested, deciding to attack this head on.

"W-what?" Scootaloo could feel a light blush on her cheeks and hoped that the darkness of night would hide it.

"I know you care deeply for Rainbow Dash, but maybe Fluttershy has found a way into your heart as well."

"N-no way! I mean, we're friends and she's helped me, but I don't think she'd like me as..." Scootaloo's voice slowly trailed off and she found herself sinking into sadness again. She shook her head. 'I don't wanna think about this.' Scoots told herself. She looked int Luna's eyes and said, "I know you're just giving me your opinion, but I doubt that me and Fluttershy could ever be together."

Luna nodded and thought, 'Well, at least this will push her in the right direction. This will truly make her rethink what she really wants.' The two stood in silence for a few minutes before Luna said, "Come. We should get you home so you can try to get some rest." Scootaloo nodded but said nothing as Luna began the trek back to Ponyville.

'How am I gonna sleep with the thought that I might see Fluttershy as more than a friend? I can't start doubting myself about Rainbow though!' Scootaloo's mind was a jumbled mess as she walked, becoming oblivious to the world around her as she became wrapped up in her mind. Luna had expected Scootaloo's silence as they walked and delved into her own thoughts.

'Mayhaps it wasn't my place to comment. I don't have as much interaction with Scootaloo as some of the other ponies. Maybe tomorrow night I will visit her employer Roseluck and ask her some questions.' When the pair had arrived back in town, Luna expected Scootaloo to say something or make some kind of reaction. However, when Night Princess stopped in front of Scootaloo's home, she was surprised to see the young pegasus walk by. "Um...Scootaloo?"

No response. "Scootaloo? We're here." Scootaloo just continued to walk. "Scootaloo, be careful not to run-" Luna stopped herself as the orange pony ran face first into the side of a building. Scootaloo hissed in pain and rubbed her muzzle tenderly. "Are you alright? Had I have known you were so lost in thought I would've stopped you sooner. Sorry." Luna apologized as Scootaloo walked up, still rubbing her muzzle.

"Stupid Rumble..." She hesitantly lowered her hoof but brought it right back up as a light pain flared into her face and blurred her vision momentarily.

"Hold still." Scootaloo was about to ask why, but she saw Luna's horn glowing lightly and lower it. The alicorn gently tapped Scootaloo's muzzle and seconds later, the pain was gone.

"Wow..." The young pegasus said in awe as she felt her muzzle. "The pain's gone! I didn't know you could do that!" Scootaloo said with a large grin.

Luna blushed at the praise and said, "It's no trouble at all. Take care Scootaloo." The young pony nodded and as Luna was about to take off, Scootaloo walked forward and lightly hugged the lunar alicorn's leg. Luna smiled and hugged Scootaloo back before taking off and eventually disappearing into the horizon.

Scootaloo yawned and retreated into her home, looking over at the clock as she ascended the stairs. 'Three-twenty huh?' The young pony stifled a yawn as she walked into her bedroom and took her place next to Rainbow Dash. She snuggled the pillow and blankets until she was warm and was asleep within minutes.

~~~

When Fluttershy woke up that morning, something was different. As she went through her usual morning routines, she tried to figure it out. "I don't know what it could be Angel. Do you have any idea?"

The rabbit looked at her as if to say, "Do I really look like I care? Now hurry and bring me nourishment." Fluttershy simply sighed and gave him his food and turned away to look out the window. 'Okay...so today's the day I go on an unofficial date with Scootaloo...So of course I'm happy.

But there's just something else I can't put my hoof on...It feels like I'm even happier than I would be, despite I'm getting Scootaloo to myself the whole day!' Fluttershy smiled and let out a small squee in excitement, but it quickly turned into a frown. 'No...I can't enjoy it TOO much though or else I may do something I regret.' The care-taker sighed and headed over to her couch, grabbed a book, and waited for Scootaloo.

~~~

Scootaloo awoke with a yawn, and a sleepy smile. "I feel so refreshed." The young pegasus took a leisurely stretch, groaning happily as she heard and felt various joints crack and pop. After that, she rolled out of bed and hummed as she headed to the bathroom to shower and get ready for the day.

When Scootaloo had finished showering, she went downstairs to eat, then proceeded to count her money. "Alright...so I can afford to bring about...150 bits and still be able to pay my rent later this month." The pegasus said happily. So, she put the bits she was taking in a pouch and after securing it to her side, left her home and started towards Fluttershy's.

~~~

When Scootaloo arrived, she saw the older pegasus sitting in the small alcove behind her windows and waving before getting up to meet Scootaloo outside. "Are you ready?" The Crusader asked, not noticing the blush on Fluttershy's cheeks.

"Yea." With a light hop in her step, Scootaloo turned and lead the way back to the Ponyville train station. When the two arrived, Fluttershy began to walk over to the stallion behind a counter to purchase her ticket, but was stopped when Scootaloo flashed two tickets in front of her.

"Took care of that before I came to get'cha. So now we just gotta wait for the train." Fluttershy smiled and praised the young mare for her preparations. "Heh, thanks." Scootaloo replied with a sheepish smile. So the pair sat on one of the benches and awaited their train. It wasn't ten minutes before the next train pulled into the station, allowing the two to get onto the train.

To help pass the time as Scootaloo and Fluttershy waited for the train to depart, they played variety of games. However, Fluttershy was surprised when she looked back from her window as she was searching for something pink to see Scootaloo snoozing soundly. Fluttershy smiled and gently stroked the young mare's mane. Fluttershy did this until the train started to move, making Scootaloo mumble from the noise.

As the train moved, Fluttershy sighed and looked out the window. It wasn't until a pressure on her side made her look back. What she saw made her smile and blush all at the same time. Scootaloo had slid to the side, landing against Fluttershy and immediately began to snuggle up against the older pegasus. Fluttershy was about to wrap a hoof around Scootaloo, but stopped suddenly.

'I can't do this...I'll just be hurting myself even more when she gets with Rainbow...' The yellow pegasus sighed and while she didn't push Scootaloo away, she didn't hug her or keep her close either. The train ride was fairly quiet as the vehicle sped up the mountain to Canterlot.

Fluttershy used this time to think over various things in her life, nothing of too much importance. Finally, as the train was pulling into the Canterlot station, Fluttershy gently shook Scootaloo. "Scootaloo? We're here." The young mare yawned loudly and cracked her eyes open.

"Huh? Oh yea..." Scootaloo yawned again and stretched her limbs out, getting rid of the stiffness that had settled in them. "Sorry about that Fluttershy. I guess I didn't get as much sleep as I thought I did."

"It's alright. Besides, that's what ponies are supposed to do on a train: sleep the whole time."

Scootaloo laughed and said, "Well then you aren't very good at following the rules are you?"

This time it was Fluttershy who laughed as they exited the train and said, "Only because I can get away with it." Scoots rolled her eyes playfully and the two began their walk. When the two had arrived, the clock had just struck two.

"So what do you wanna do first: get lunch or go walk around?" Before Fluttershy could say anything, her stomach growled loudly, answering for her. The older pegasus blushed in embarrassment and Scootaloo just snickered. "Lunch it is then."

The two headed down the road and searched for a suitable place to sit and enjoy a meal. Finally, the two decided to eat at a small cafe called Moon's Light. The pair took a seat at one of the outside tables and moments later, a unicorn came up to the table.

"Hello ladies. Welcome to Moon's Light. What would you like to drink?" Scootaloo answered first. "I'll have...apple cider." The waiter nodded and looked at Fluttershy. "Iced tea please."

"Got'cha. Be right back." The stallion wandered back into the cafe, leaving the two pegasi to make small talk. The two were in the middle of discussing literature when the stallion came back, holding their drinks in his magical grasp. "One apple cider for the young lady...and one iced tea for the beautiful mare." He said, a smile on his face as he handed Fluttershy her drink.

Scootaloo mumbled angrily as she sipped her cider. "O-oh, umm...th-thank you."

The unicorn winked and said, "So, you two decide on what you'd like?"

Scootaloo nodded and said, "I'll have half of a veggie club sandwich."

He nodded, writing down what she had said and a moment later, Fluttershy said, "I'll just have a salad."

He nodded once again and said, "Be right back beautiful." Fluttershy cursed the small blush that made it's way onto her face. She saw Scootaloo roll her eyes and stick out her tongue behind his back as he walked away.

"Scootaloo, that wasn't very nice." Fluttershy said, trying not to giggle. Scoots could see that Fluttershy was attempting to hold back her laughter and smiled.

"I'm not always a nice pony ya know." They both laughed and continued on with conversation as they awaited their food. When the waiter came back, he placed both plates down and took a seat between the two.

"So, where ya from gorgeous?" He asked, his gaze directed at Fluttershy.

"U-um...I'm from P-Ponyville."

"Ponyville eh? Not a bad town. It's a little rural for my tastes, but not bad. So what're ya doin' here in Canterlot?" Fluttershy avoided the question by taking a bite of her salad. However, he just stared at her, smiling and waiting. Fluttershy desperately wanted to just disappear and get away from the stallion.

"Hey, she's trying to eat. Aren't you being a little rude? Besides, don't you have to go do wait tables and help other customers?" Scootaloo asked, irritation clearly in her tone.

"I'm on break." He replied without even glancing at the young pegasus. Scootaloo huffed and took a bite of her sandwich. "So how about after I get off work, me and you go do something? Maybe go catch a movie?" He suggested. Fluttershy nearly choked on the salad in her mouth at his proposition.

"Er...well I...um...I-I'm sorry but I don't think-"

"Oh come on. I'll show you a great time, I promise." He said with confidence.

"I'm s-sure you would but-" Fluttershy was cut off.

"I'll even pay for everything."

"C-could you please just go?" The timid pegasus asked, looking down at the ground. The waiter ignored the request and continued to pester Fluttershy. Scootaloo put her sandwich down and was about to chew out the stallion when another voice beat her to it.

"I believe she told you to leave." Another stallion said, standing at least a couple inches above the waiter with wings flared out at his side.

"I will when she accepts my offer."

"Which she obviously won't do." Fluttershy looked up and at the pegasus stallion staring down the waiter and a smile rose to her face.

"And who are you to tell me that?" The waiter asked in irritation.

"Her father."

All For You

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The tall pegasus fluffed his wings at his side with a light frown on his face as he peered down at the smaller stallion. "I...er..." The waiter started to say, searching for something to say to get him out of this predicament.

"I suggest you do as she wishes and leave her be." The yellow stallion said, looking the unicorn in the eyes.

"O-of course sir! Forgive me." With that, the waiter turned and hurried back into the cafe, nearly bumping into a few ponies and coming close to running into the wall. Fluttershy slid her chair out from the table and hugged the pegasus.

"Hello Daddy. I didn't know you'd be in Canterlot today." They broke away and he gave a mock frown, putting a hoof to his eye like he was tearing up.

"But I sent you a letter a few days ago. Obviously you just don't care for your dear old dad. Oh the pain..."

Fluttershy chuckled and said, "I must've forgotten. I've been a bit...preoccupied lately." The yellow stallion smiled and looked over at Scootaloo, who had been staring at him. She looked down and quickly went back to her sandwich.

"And who is this young lady?" He asked, taking the seat the unicorn had been using.

"That's my friend Scootaloo. Scootaloo, this is my father Warm Breeze."

"A pleasure to meet you sir." Scootaloo said, shaking his hoof.

"Ho ho! Such a polite mare. Please, just call me Warm Breeze. Sir makes me feel old." Fluttershy snickered at her father and Scootaloo smiled, relaxing at the joke. "So tell me my beloved daughter, what are YOU doing in Canterlot this fine day?" The pegasus in question swallowed the salad she was eating and took a quick drink before answering.

"Scootaloo insisted on repaying me after I helped her out so we're taking a day to walk around Canterlot." Warm Breeze nodded and looked over at Scootaloo.

"Helped you huh? What'd my little girl do for you?"

Scootaloo fought the blush that tried to rise to her face and said, "S-she um...g-gave me a massage." Warm Breeze burst into laughter and the blush got past Scootaloo's will and manifested itself onto her face.

"Dad! It's nothing like that! She was over-worked and...stop laughing!" Fluttershy said while giggling as her father began laughing with renewed vigor. Scootaloo couldn't help but laugh as well, not caring at the multitude of ponies staring in their direction. When Warm Breeze had finally calmed down, he allowed the pair to explain the situation.

As the finished, Warm Breeze nodded and said, "Ahh, so Rainbow Dash is helping you fly huh? If she's anything like she was when she was a filly, I wish you the best of luck." He smiled and took a drink of the tea he had ordered while the story was being told.

"Thanks. We're supposed to be starting our major training regimen tomorrow so...yea."

Warm Breeze chuckled and said, "Once again, best of luck to you. Perhaps I should send Fluttershy to keep an eye on you two. Don't want her to over-work you again." As he finished his sentence, he began to snicker and it made both the mares blush. Fluttershy glanced over at Scootaloo for a second before looking down at her plate. "So tell me you two...how are things in Ponyville?" The two mares began to talk of their lives in the small town while Warm Breeze simply listened.

Finally, Scootaloo stopped and stared at Warm Breeze. "Hey, I got a question for ya."

"I might have an answer."

"You ever see a unicorn...floating? Grey coat, grey with blue streaked hair?"

Warm Breeze laughed and said, "Actually yes. He visits Cloudsdale occasionally to generally cause panic among the pegasi. It's quite funny to watch as he just nonchalantly hovers above the clouds while the pegasus ponies just gawk." Scootaloo laughed loudly while Fluttershy just looked off at the distant city of pegasi, pondering who this strange pony was. "Scootaloo, do you mind if I have a quick chat with Fluttershy?"

"Of course not. Go right ahead."

The stallion laughed and said, "So polite. I wish the pegasus of Cloudsdale that were your age were this nice." Warm Breeze gently led his daughter away and when he was sure they were alone, he looked her straight in the eyes with a smile and said, "You like her, don't you dear?" Instead of blushing or trying to deny it, the yellow mare sighed sadly and nodded.

Warm Breeze pulled her daughter in for a hug which she eagerly returned. "Have you..." He began to ask. However, he was stopped when he felt her shake her head against him. "Why not?" Fluttershy quickly began to describe the situation to her father, who took it all without saying a word "So...she loves Rainbow Dash and you want her to be happy?" Fluttershy just nodded, refusing to allow the tears in her eyes to fall. "Oh sweetheart..."

Warm Breeze hugged Fluttershy a little tighter and wiped away the few tears that had slipped past her eyes. "Chin up my little girl. It'll all turn out alright. I promise." Fluttershy looked into her father's eyes and saw the characteristic tranquility that she had only ever seen in her parental figure. His cool hazel eyes exuded calmness and Fluttershy found herself becoming relaxed and that all her sorrow was leaving her body. "I love you honey."

"Love you too dad." The two yellow ponies hugged one last time before heading back to Scootaloo.

"You two sure took awhile. Is everything alright?"

"Of course dear Scootaloo. Nothing to worry about, right hun?"

"Yes daddy." Scootaloo snickered at Fluttershy's endearment for her father.

However, Warm Breeze was unfazed and said, "Well, guess I'll let you two get back to your day. Enjoy the city." The elder stallion leaned over and kissed his daughter's forehead before wandering off.

"I like your dad." Scootaloo said, drinking the last of her cider. Fluttershy chuckled and did the same, placing the now empty glass on the table and moved to grab her money. "Don't worry about it. I'll pay." Scootaloo said, already putting bits onto the table.

"You don't have to. I mean, you did pay for our train tickets and brought me here." Fluttershy replied, pushing Scootaloo's money back towards her.

"Nah, I insist. Remember, I'm repaying you."

'I wish I could enjoy this more...' Fluttershy sighed internally and just nodded. "Thank you Scootaloo."

"No problem. Now come on, let's get movin'." Scoots said, hopping out of the chair and heading down the street with Fluttershy right beside her. As the mares walked through Canterlot, they spoke of the city itself; the buildings, the art, the fashion, everything about the city that caught their attention. Needless to say, their eyes caught many shops and the two found themselves entering or admiring what seemed to be every other store or kiosk.

'Oh man...what do I do? She's shown interest in so many things. How do I know which one to get her? Which one is the right decision?' Scootaloo wondered as the two pegasi browsed through a tea shop. The pair of pegasi continued looking through shop after shop, even as Celestia's sun painted Canterlot in a mellow golden orange light. 'We've been through so many stores...and I can't even remember half of them!' Scootaloo shouted to herself mentally as she followed Fluttershy into a small glass shop.

Inside, there were many different items crafted from glass, each item holding some sort of significance to one thing or another. Fluttershy stared in amazement at many of the works of glass art, and Scootaloo did as well. However, one piece stood out from the rest. Sitting in a small alcove in the corner of the store, hidden from view in plain sight, was a simple glass butterfly.

'This...this is it! This is Fluttershy's gift. It's so like her; a beautiful butterfly hiding in plain sight for ponies to merely catch a glimpse of.' Scootaloo felt joy rush through her system as she celebrated the small victory. She had waited until Fluttershy walked out before rushing up to the counter with the gift.

The mare behind the counter smiled warmly and said, "I hope she likes it."

"Me too. Thank you." Scoots said, genuine happiness in her voice. She headed out of the shop and called out to Fluttershy, holding the small glass sculpture behind her wings.

"Hmm? Is everything okay Scootaloo?"

"Of course! I just wanted to say that I had a great time today. I really enjoyed spending the day with you."

"Oh, m-me too Scootaloo. It was nice to get away from Ponyville for awhile for a change of scenery. Though I must admit, I am eager to return home. All these ponies are starting to make my nervousness skyrocket." It was true, there were many ponies who were coming out of their homes to enjoy a nice evening walk.

"Alright, but before we head back to the train station...I got you something. My final gift to you."

"Oh Scootaloo, you didn't have to-" The orange mare cut off Fluttershy by presenting the glass butterfly.

"Tada!" Fluttershy was struck speechless as Scootaloo placed the small sculpture in her hooves. "Do you like it?" Scoots asked, eagerly awaiting an answer. However, Scootaloo was surprised when she saw a few tears fall from Fluttershy's face. "Fluttershy?" The younger pony reached out, but Fluttershy looked up and Scootaloo saw a deep seated sadness in Fluttershy's eyes.

"Why Scootaloo?"

"W-well...I just wanted to make it up to you. I mean...you took such good care of me that day and I really wanted to make you happy. This whole day...It's all for you." That last sentence replayed itself over and over in Fluttershy's mind.

'It's all for you.' Fluttershy took a few shaky breaths as tears continued to pour freely from her eyes.

"Fluttershy..." Scootaloo said, uncertainty in her voice. What happened next seemed to happen at a fraction of normal time. Fluttershy brought a hoof to her mouth to suppress a sob, dropping the glass butterfly in the same instant. The yellow pegasus then turned and ran, attracting the attention of everypony who was outside. Scootaloo stood there, shocked as the events played in slow motion.

'Fluttershy?' It was a whole three minutes before reality came back to Scootaloo. "Fluttershy!" Scoots promptly took off in the same direction, running as fast as she possibly could to hopefully catch up to the older mare. However, it quickly became apparent that three minutes was all it took for Fluttershy to get lost.

Scootaloo slowed to a halt, her breathing heavy and laboured. 'I don't understand...why'd she run off like that? Was it something I said?' Scootaloo started moving again and hoped to Luna's moon that her friend was okay.

~~~

Scootaloo was exhausted. She had been searching for hours for any sign of Fluttershy, even as Luna's moon rose into the sky. The orange mare took a seat on a nearby bench to catch her breath. 'Where could she be...' Scootaloo sighed and gazed into the night sky with sadness in her eyes. "Please, give me a sign...anything at all!" Scoots screamed into the silent city, refusing to allow the tears in her eyes to fall.

After she had calmed down, the orange pegasus sighed once again and hopped off the bench and slowly began to walk aimlessly through the darkened capital. As she walked, Scootaloo was thankful for the quiet that blanked the city as it allowed her to think clearly. 'There must be some reason she ran off like that...What could I have done to hurt her like that?' As she was getting lost in thought, a sound cut through the silence. Scootaloo froze as she listened. "Is that...a cello?"

Scootaloo took off towards the sound that had shattered the silence of night time Canterlot. As she turned corner after corner, Scootaloo could easy tell that she was getting closer and closer. Finally, Scoots emerged from under a bridge and on her right was a single mare, grey in colour with a purple music note cutie mark. "Finally! Hey, have you seen a yellow pegasus with a flowing pink mane? Her name is-"

"Fluttershy, I know."

"How do you know Fluttershy?"

"She's an old friend." As Octavia spoke, she examined Scootaloo. 'Orange coat, purple mane, lavender eyes...So this is the mare Fluttershy yearns for...'

"I see...Well, have you seen her?" Scoots asked, eager to continue her search.

"Actually yes, I have." Scootaloo's face lit up as she took a relieved breath.

"Great! Which way did she go?" The young pegasus asked quickly. Octavia pointed to the building behind her.

"She's seeking sanctuary within the confines of my home."

Scootaloo thanked the mare and asked, "Can I go see her?" Octavia shook her head, causing Scoots to frown. "Why not?" Scoots asked, irritation already taking root in her tone.

"Because you have hurt her quite badly and she's in no condition to speak with anypony." Octavia said calmly, looking up into Luna's night.

"That's why I need to talk to her! So I can make things right!" The cellist looked straight into Scootaloo's eyes, causing the pegasus to take a small step back.

A few seconds later, Octavia nodded and said, "Wait here for a moment." The pegasus nodded and watched Octavia head inside her home.

After what felt like an eternity, Octavia opened the door and said, "Down the hall on your left, then the second door on the right. Scootaloo nodded and went to move past the grey mare but was stopped by a hoof. "Listen to me and listen well. If you hurt Fluttershy any more than you already have...you WILL regret it." The orange mare swallowed the sudden lump in her throat as the musician glared at her with cold, calm eyes. With that, Octavia released Scootaloo and sat back on the porch to continue playing her cello. As Scootaloo walked through the home, her mind was racing.

'Oh...what do I say? I spent all that time looking, but I didn't think of anything to say when I found her...ugh, I'm such a foal.' When Scoots had finished berating herself mentally, she found the door she had been looking for and could hear very faint sobs coming from the other side. Scootaloo took a few deep breaths and flapped her wings for good measure before knocking on the door.

"Please Octavia, just leave me alone..." The young mare was crushed to hear that much sorrow in Fluttershy's voice.

"N-no...it's me, Scootaloo." The orange pony was met with silence. "Can I come in?" Again, she was met with silence. 'Well...I didn't hear a no.' So Scootaloo cautiously opened the door and was met with near darkness. A curtain was drawn in front of the window, letting only a slight glow into the room. The young pegasus squinted as her eyes slowly adjusted to the dimly lit room. She could see Fluttershy's silhouette quivering on the bed.

"P-please Scootaloo...just leave. I don't want to be rude, but you'll just hurt me trying to help me." Scootaloo was hurt to hear the words, but she knew she couldn't back down.

"We both know I can't do that Fluttershy. I have to make up for whatever I've done to you and the only way I can do that is if I know what's wrong." Much to Scootaloo's surprise, Fluttershy laughed. It wasn't her usual kind, soft laugh but rather a cold and unfeeling laugh that was more like an angry bark. She also stood up off the bed and slowly closed in on Scootaloo, making the orange pony back up into a corner.

"Oh come on now Scootaloo. Surely you aren't that oblivious! You honestly can't stand there and tell me you can't say that you don't see what's going on!" Scootaloo tried to speak, but she was cut off by the frustrated pegasus. "Do you have ANY IDEA how hard this is for me? For you to start caring about how I am and how I feel?"

"I..."

"For such a long time, I've watched you grow. I've seen you laugh, cry, hate...and you think you can just fix this all just by demanding I tell you what's wrong?" Fluttershy was inches away from Scootaloo's face. The orange pegasus's eyes finally adjusted and she could see tears streaming down Fluttershy's face. However, the tears were now of anger instead of sorrow.

"I'm sorry..."

"How can you be sorry if you don't even know what you're doing?" Fluttershy turned away and went to stare out the window while Scootaloo just slid down against the wall and sat on the floor.

'What does she mean...I don't understand! What can she mean? The only thing I can think of is that she...' Scoots looked over at the older pegasus, watching as the moonlight softly illuminated her body, turning Fluttershy into a silhouette. 'She looks so beautiful in the moonlight...' As this thought crossed Scootaloo's mind, she began to understand. 'She's always been there for me when my friends weren't, I could always count on her for advice...'

Scootaloo looked up and saw Fluttershy sneaking a peak at her, making the yellow pegasus turn back to the window. The young pegasus walked over and tapped Fluttershy's shoulder.

"Please Scootaloo...I'm sorry I shouted at you but you need to-" Fluttershy's words were halted as Scootaloo wrapped her hooves around Fluttershy. Neither pony said anything as Scootaloo hugged and Fluttershy stood there shocked. "I..." Fluttershy wanted desperately to say something, but no matter what, the words in her mind refused to leave her mouth.

"C'mon...it's late. We should probably get going so we don't impose upon Octavia any longer." Fluttershy simply nodded, not trusting her mouth. The two made their way back down the stairs and were about to walk out the door when they were stopped by the cellist.

"No. You two are staying as my guests. Besides, the train's are finished running for the night. You'll have to wait until tomorrow so I insist you two say." As the grey mare spoke, she was pushing them them back into the house. They both tried to object, but Octavia heard none of it. "Now both of you march back upstairs and get some rest. You've both been through quite a bit today." The mares, unknowing as to what they should do, simply listened and went back up the stairs. When they went back into the room, they both crawled into bed without a word and closed their eyes.

It wasn't more than an hour before Fluttershy hovered down and into the kitchen where Octavia was waiting, sipping a cup of what Fluttershy assumed was her favourite tea. "So, how'd it go?" Fluttershy sighed, sitting down and taking a drink of the tea that had been prepared for her.

"I'm not sure Octavia...I accidentally yelled at her and even though she hugged me, I'm not convinced that her mind's been changed." Octavia nodded and took another drink.

"That may be so, but she's definitely conflicted now."

"That's not what I wanted! I didn't mean for any of this to happen..." Octavia sighed and lightly hugged the shy pony.

"I know dear, but we can't always control what happens. It'll work out for you. It always does." Fluttershy just nodded and sipped her tea.

"I don't know Octavia..." The two sat there in silence as they drank their tea, both left to their own devices. Eventually, both cups were drained and both mares bid each other a good night. Fluttershy stopped in front of the room she was sharing with Scootaloo. "Don't worry." Fluttershy nodded and thanked the cellist and crawled into bed and feel asleep.

The First Week

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When Fluttershy woke, she immediately noticed the young pegasus in her hooves. The events of the previous night played fresh in the yellow mare's mind, causing to sigh. 'Why does life have to be so cruel...' Fluttershy glanced around then room she was in to pass the time. Thewalls were a dark shade of blue with a few pictures ofvarious music related subjects. Above her, a ceiling fan spun quietly, spreading a light breeze throughout the room.

On the bedside thabl opposite her was a simple lamp and clock. The clock read ten-fifty. We should probably be leaving soon.' Fluttershy thought. So she took a breath and said Scootaloo's name. The young mare mumbled, but remained asleep. Fluttershy tried the tactic a few more times before she bit her bottom lip. 'Well...I've always wanted to try this...' So, Fluttershy took a breath to steel her resolve, then leaned close and with her mouth right next to Scootaloo's ear whispered, "Scootaloo...Time to get up."

She ended her statement with a breath of warm air on Scootaloo's ear. The young mare's eyes opened and she shot up, a blush on her face. "I'm up!" Scootaloo said quickly, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Fluttershy just giggled and rolled off the bed, stretching her wings. Scootaloo yawned and crawled off the bed as well to stretch. When the pair had finished, they headed down the stairs and into the kitchen.

"Good morning to both of you. I take it you two worked something out?" Octavia asked, taking a sip of whatever beverage she had in her cup. The pegasi ponies looked at each other, blushed, then looked away.

"Sort of..." Fluttershy said quietly.

"Well...That's good I hope. Would either of you care for breakfast?" At the mention of food, both Scootaloo and Fluttershy's stomach's growled.

"We'd love to...but we need to be getting back to Ponyville."

"Ahh, very well then. Are you leaving now?" Octavia asked. Both fliers nodded and the cellist said, "Alright. Have a safe trip home." They both thanked the grey mare for her hospitality and headed to the train station. The walk to the station was laden with silence, both mares were thankful for it. Each pegasus was deep in thought about what had happened the night before.

'I can't believe I almost told her...' Fluttershy thought.

'Fluttershy still looks upset...I wonder if there's anything I can do to help.' The image of Fluttershy dropping the glass butterfly with tears in her eyes quickly came to mind, causing Scootaloo to sigh unhappily. 'Oh yea...' When they arrived, they showed their tickets to the pony asking for them and got ready to board when a voice called out to Fluttershy. The yellow mare turned and saw Octavia running towards her, a letter clutched in her teeth.

"Octavia?" Fluttershy looked at her cousin in concern when the cellist stopped in front of her, taking several greedy breaths of air.

"I...hate...running..." Octavia said between breaths, the letter falling from her mouth. Fluttershy leaned down, grabbed it, and made the motion of returning it, but Octavia just shook her head. "I was hoping you could do me a favour and deliver this letter to your friend Twilight Sparkle."

"Of course I can Octavia. I'll drop it off as soon as we get back into town."

They grey mare pulled Fluttershy into a hug and said, "Thank you. And good luck with your young friend."

"Thank you." Octavia watched Fluttershy get onto the train and waved as itpulled away from the station. As it was on the way to Canterlot, the ride back was just as uneventful. When the train finally pulled into Ponyville, the pair eagerly got off. As they stood there amidst the multitude of ponies, they had no clue as to what they should or could say to each other.

"Well...I guess I'll see ya later..." Scootaloo said, attempting to smile despite the confusion in her mind.

"Y-yeah...Take care during your training."

"I will, thanks." With that, they went their separate ways with Fluttershy heading to Golden Oaks Library and Scootaloo to the flower shop.

~~~~

When Fluttershy arrived at the library, she knocked and waited. "Hello Fluttershy." The pegasus leapt away from the door in fear of the sudden voice. "Up here." Fluttershy moved her hooves away from her eyes and saw Twilight smiling down at her from the balcony. "Sorry for scaring you. It was an accident." Fluttershy smiled and spoke as she flew up to her friend.

"It's alright. So what're you doing out today?" The pegasus asked as she landed and took a seat.

"Nothing really. Just doing a little recreational reading." Fluttershy looked past Twilight and saw three stacks of books, each stack containing six books. 'Guess I shouldn't be surprised. It IS Twilight after all.' Fluttershy chuckled and Twilight smiled.

"Would you like to come in for something to drink?" The lavender pony asked, already heading for the door.

"I'd be delighted." Fluttershy follwed Twilight into the house and down into the kitchen where Twilight poured them both a cup of apple juice.

"So how was your day in Canterlot?" Instead of answering immediately, Fluttershy just took a sip of her juice. "Fluttershy?"

"Hmm? Oh...It was fine." The pegasus said quickly, avoiding Twilight's gaze.

"What happened?" Twilight asked in concern. Fluttershy considered lying, but quickly shook the thought from her mind.

"Well..." The next twenty minutes flew by as Fluttershy explained what had happened. "And now, I have no idea what to think. I didn't tell her, but I'm sure she figured it out and now she can barely speak to me..." Fluttersy buried her head in her hooves resting on the table.

"Oh Fluttershy...I'm sure that's not the case." Twilight said, trying to comfort her friend.

"She's smart Twilight...there's no way she didn't come to the conclusion that I have feelings for her!" Fluttershy shouted.

"Well...maybe that's a good thing. I mean, now that she knows, you can make the first move and-"

"No! I told you that I can't do that to her! I can't take her away from Rainbow Dash!" Now it was Twilight's turn to yell.

"You can't take her away if Rainbow isn't with her! You need to stand up for what YOU want Fluttershy, otherwise you'll be alone!"

Fluttershy sniffled and turned her gaze to the floor and in a barely audible whisper said, "I know..." Twilight couldn't bear to see Fluttershy like this. It was no longer Scootaloo that pained the yellow mare, but Fluttershy herself. The timid mare was tearing herself to pieces.

"You need to talk to her...to tell her." Twilight said, moving to console her friend.

"Why bother...she probably already knows..." Fluttershy said miserably, burying her head back against her hooves.

"Probably being the key word. Instead of assuming everything for her, why not let Scootaloo speak for herself?" The lavender mare suggested. At first, Fluttershy madeno indication that she even heard Twilight, let alone move. However, as seconds became minutes, Fluttershy's head slowly rose and Twilight saw a fierce determination and understanding in the yellow flier's eyes.

"You're right Twilight. Scootaloo is a mare now and as such, I should treat her as an adult. She is more than capable of making her own decisions!"

Twilight smiled and nodded, "That's right! Now go out there and tell her how you feel!" Fluttershy's ferocity was swiftly snuffed out as she lowered her head and hid behind her mane.

"Y-you mean n-now? I don't know Twilight...it's kind of sudden and well...I just don't think I'm ready to tell her yet..."

Twilight's enthusiasm died down and she said, "Alright, maybe not right now, but you have to do it before the end of the week or else I'll tell her for you." Fluttershy nodded and pulled Twilight into a hug.

"Thank you so much Twilight."

"That's what friends are for." The unicorn replied, returning the hug. As she did, an envelope fell from Fluttershy's mane. "Oh, sorry about that. Here, let me get that for you." Twilight gripped the envelope in her magic and, letting her curiosity get the better of her, snuck a peek at the front and saw that it was addressed to her.

"It's actually yours. That's the whole reason I came over in the first place; to drop off this letter."

"Who's it from?" Twilight asked, opening the letter.

"It's from Octavia." Twilight blushed lightly as a smile came onto her face. Fluttershy headed for the door, bidding the magical pony a farewell.

"...Huh? Oh, see ya Fluttershy." Twilight said, her eyes glued to the paper that hovered in front of her. The pegasus smiled and left, closing the door behind her. When Twilight finished reading the letter, she grabbed the envelope it had been in (since she had dropped it in her excitement to read the letter) and started to push it back in when something fell out. It was a photo. Twilight grabbed it and turned it around to peek at it. The photo nearly made Twilight pas out from the amount of blood that rushed to her face. 'I need to write- no! I need to see her!' So, Twilight quickly replaced the photo back into the envelope and rushed upstairs to hide it. "Spike? I'm going to Canterlot for the day!"

~~~~

When Scootaloo entered the flower shop, she saw Daisy behind the counter. "Hey Daisy. You seen Roseluck?"

"She's probably sleeping in her office." The mare replied.

"Asleep? How or why is she asleep at..." Scoots looked up at the clock and finished, "...Twelve-thirty?"

"Apparently, Princess Luna herself came and talked to Rosey last night."

"Really? I wonder what they talked about..." A third voice spoke up, scaring both Daisy and Scootaloo.

"Why not come in here and find out?" Roseluck laughed at the frightened pair and retreated back into her office. Scootaloo grumbled and followed afew seconds later, shutting the door behind her.

"So what did you and the Princess talk about?" Scoots asked quickly as Roseluck poured herself whatthe young pegasus assumed was coffee. The florist took a sip before answering.

"You." Scootaloo's jaw hung open in disbelief.

"Y-you talked ab-about me?"

"Mhmm."

"Why?" Roseluck took another drink and sighed happily as warmth spread throughout her body.

"Luna was concerned that you may be...confused about what you want romantically. So, she came to me since I know you pretty well and we talked. Tell me...are you confused?" The orange flier opened her mouth to object, but slowly closed it as her eyes wandered to the window.

"I...I guess I am." Was all she said. Roseluck nodded and waited a few minutes before speaking again.

"What happened in Canterlot?" Scootaloo took a deep breath and told the florist everything that had happened.

"And because of that...I think I know why it hurt Fluttershy so much..." The young mare looked straight into Roseluck's eyes and said, "I think it's because she likes me...a lot."

'Should I tell her? I mean, it's not my place to do so but still...'Roseluck thought as Scootaloo looked to her, eyes pleading for some sort of advice. "I see...and why do you think it's confusing you if your love for Rainbow Dash is set in stone?" Scootaloo was silent as she thought. After a good ten minutes, she spoke.

"I...I'm not entirely sure. But maybe...it's because I connect better with Fluttershy than I thought I did with Dash. She listens to what I have to say and she'll talk to me just to talk. Rainbow's the same way...but the conversations always involve her personally...Fluttershy cares for my well being and about me in general and so does Dash, but in a different way. Not like Fluttershy does...Plus..she knows what it's like to admire and love somepony, but not have those feelings returned...just like me." Roseluck got out of her seat and pulled Scootaloo into a hug.

"Listen...it's not really my place, but Fluttershy really loves you and she cares about you so much that she's torn herself up inside by not telling you how she feels, just so you could have a chance with Rainbow Dash without having to worry about something like this." Scootaloo nodded against Roseluck's chest and the cream coloured pony said quietly, "Ultimately, it's your decision, and while I personally think you should pick Fluttershy, I'll stand by you no matter what."

"Thanks Roseluck..." The pair sat there in silence and soon, pulled away from each other.

"So are you gonna tell her about this?" Rose asked, taking her seat back behind her desk. Scootaloo shook her head.

"No...not yet at least."

"Why not?"

"Because I made a promise to myself that I would be with Rainbow Dash and even though I don't feel as strongly for her as I used to, I still have to try. What kind of pony doesn't keep their word?"

Roseluck nodded, taking in the information before saying, "Alright...but promise me you'll tell her soon."

Scoots nodded and said, "If I can't get with Dash by the end of my training session...then I'll move on and tell Fluttershy."

"Atta girl." The mares chuckled and after a few minutes of idle conversation, Scootaloo bid Roseluck farewell and headed for home to find Dash and start her training. When Scoots got home, she opened the door and called out for the older pegasus.

"Rainbow Dash? You here?" She closed the door behind her as she walked into the house, then into the kitchen to make herself something to eat. When she walked in, Scootaloo saw a note on the table, which she figured she'd read after a sandwich and some juice. When she finished, she looked over the note which was written in the familiar mouth writing of Rainbow Dash.

"Squirt, you were taking too long so I went ahead and headed to the training area to begin setting things up. See ya there. ~Dash

"So that's where she went. Guess I better get going then." So, Scootaloo ran from her home and headed straight for White Tail Woods.

~~~~

As Scootaloo broke through the woods, she stopped in awe of what she saw. Above the clearing as a large mass of cloud. It was easily bigger than the last lump of cloud she had trained on and that alone told her that this training would be much more intense. "Hey! Rainbow Dash!" Scoots called out loudly. She saw a head topped with a multitude of colour peek over the side.

"About time you showed up! I was starting to think you were gonna chicken out on me!"

"Of course I showed up! I wouldn't just leave ya hangin'." Dash had flown down as Scootaloo spoke and ruffled the younger pegasus's mane.

"So are you ready?" Scootaloo nodded and Dash wrapped her forehooves around Scootaloo and lifted off. After a few minutes of flight, the pair passed over the lip of the massive cloud platform.

"Whoa..."

"Pretty awesome right? Took me all day yesterday and part of today to make."

"You did this all by yourself?" Scootaloo asked, taking in everything she could see.

Dash placed Scootaloo down and with a prideful smile said, "Of course. I mean, it was actually pretty easy, just a little time consuming." Scootaloo turned and looked at the older pegasus and smiled.

"Thank you Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow just waved away the thanks and asked, "You ready to start your training?" Scoots nodded energetically, causing Dash to laugh. "I like your enthusiasm. Alright, first off we're gonna start with stretches. However, before we do that, I need to tell you something very important." Scootaloo nodded at the seriousness of Dash's face. "While the training itself is highly important, there is another part of it other than just the traning itself.

You need to think of something to motivate you, something to light that fire in your belly any and every time you feel like giving up. For example, my motivation when I was your age wasn't for learning to fly, but to be the best. I pushed myself and my limits every time I could. Even to the extent where I was hospitalized a few times but that never stopped me. My motivation was anger and determination. Every time a pony would do better than me, I would push myself even harder so I could surpass them. It never took me very long to become the best again. Now, what drives you to want to fly?"

The young orange pony closed her eyes and sifted through her thoughts. Every time she thought of her current situation, a number of things popped up. The pain of being looked down upon, being called inferior or reject, the ridicule of her flightlessness, even the audacity of her friends saying they understood her pain. Scootaloo threw her eyes open and in her eyes was a burning fire. "I'm ready." Dash nodded and the two began their first day of training.

~~~~

Everything was burning, aching, sore, or all of the above. Scootaloo fell onto her stomach, thankful for the plush cloud beneath her. "Not a bad start, but there's definately room for improvement." Scootaloo gave a half nod before allowing her head to fall onto the cloud face first. "Get a good night's rest. We're starting early tomorrow and I want to get to the obstacle courses before noon and hopefully gliding before evening." Dash waited for a reply, but when no sound came, she turned and smiled. Scootaloo had passed out during the first few words. Rainbow chuckled quietly and whispered, "Good night Scootaloo." Before she too succombed to sleep's sweet lullaby.

~~~~

When Dash opened her eyes, Celestia's bright sun had yet to pass over the horizon. It seemed perfectly content to offer a soft glow to scarcely illuminate the world. After stretching, the cyan pegasus went to wake Scoots. "C'mon squirt, time to get up." Dash lightly shook the young pony as she spoke. Scootaloo mumbled and snuggled closer to the cloud. "Scootaloo, get up." Dash spoke louder and pushed with more force.

Scootaloo pushed Rainbow's hoof away and said, "Five more minutes..." Rainbow Dash sighed and flew off, grabbing a small cloud and postioning it over the young pegasus.

"Sorry squirt but..." Dash starting hopping up and down on the cloud, unleashing a downpour on the sleeping pony. "No insubordination on my watch!" Scoots cried out in alarm as the cold droplets pelted her, prompting her to quickly jump out from under the localized rain. The orange pegasus could hear her older counterpart snickering as she stood there drenched and dripping.

"Ha ha, real funny." Scootaloo growled, not bothering to mask her irritation.

"Sorry, but we got a lot to do today and we need to get started as quickly as we can."

"Fine. But was drenching me with water really necessary?" Scootaloo murmured under her breath.

"Well, in any case, you're up no so let's get to work. Come with me." Rainbow turned and started walking, Scootaloo behind her, trying to dry herself off. A moment later, the two were walking up to what Scoots assumed was an obsticle course. "This course is an exactly replica of my old flight camp's but with a few modifications of my own to make up for your...disadvantage. However, that doesn't mean you won't be prompted to use your wings at all." The pair halted at the start and Scoots looked it over as Dash continued to speak. "The course was designed to improve the fluidity of your movement as you switch between running and flying. Watch."

Dash's wings flared up as she started the course. Scootaloo watched intently as Rainbow navigated the course with ease. Scoots swallowed the lump of fear as Dash got to the section where her wings were needed. While she didn't outright fly, Rainbow instead used them to give herself forward momentum and to propel herself upwards to clear some of the higher obstacles. Finally, at the end of the course was a sudden drop followed by a long strip of cloud below.

Scootaloo watched carefully as Rainbow leapt off the side and kept her wings open, occasionnaly flapping them to keep herself going. After a few minutes, Dash glided over the finish, then walked up a set of stairs that placed her on the same level as the young pony. Rainbow flew over and lightly patted Scootaloo's back. "You got this." She then nudged Scoots towards the start of the course.

'Okay Scootaloo...you can do this.' The young pegasus thought, steeling herself for the course ahead. She looked at Dash, then back at the course.

"And...go!" Scootaloo took off forward, mimicing Rainbow as best she could, leaping over blocks and ducking under obstructions. Scoots did this pretty well. However, her momentum was lost as she began to hit the section where her wings were needed and she slowed down considerably. Scoots snuck a glance over at Dash and saw the cyan pony marking something down on a clipboard.

"Oh no...am I doing something wrong? Am I not doing well enough?" Scootaloo asked herself alound as she kept going. Ignoring the panic attempting to bubble up in her belly, Scoots continued on to the best of her ability. As she neared the end, it took all of the orange pony's willpower not to skid to a halt. 'Just jump and open your wings!' Scootaloo shouted mentally. "Here...goes...nothing!" As the last word left her mouth, Scootaloo jumped forward, closed her eyes, and opened her wings. When the sensation of freefall didn't overcome Scoots, she cracked open one eye.

All around her the world was lazily passing by. So, the orange pony opened her eyes fully and grinned. "I'm...I'm doing it!" Scootaloo felt rapturous energy fill her body as she felt the wind pull lightly at her coat, tussle her mane, and flowed under her wings. It felt incredible to Scootaloo to feel the breeze pass over and under her feathers, filling her with unbridled bliss. It was a feeling that Scoots wished would never end. All the years of being mocked by other pegasi for being a "grounded" pegasus and now she was proving them wrong.

Her elation must've shown because she heard Dash shout, "Try flapping your wings!" Scoots smiled and nodded. She moved her wings an inch upward and all her joy and happiness crumbled and made way for panic and fear as she began to plummet. The mare couldn't stop the scream that burst from her throat as she saw her flightless life pass before her eyes. However, her scream was suddenly cut off as she collied with a cloud, the remaining breath in her lungs forced out from the impact and leaving Scootaloo breathless.

The pained mare tried taking in huge greedy breaths, only to harshly cough the air back out. When Scoots could finally breath normally, Dash had managed to make it down beside her. "You alright?" The cyan pony asked, her eyes lit up with concern.

"Y-yea...just a little shook up is all." Rainbow nodded and sighed in relief.

"Well...at least something good came out of this." Scootaloo looked at Rainbow with a mix of confusion and anger. "We found out that we need to work on wing movement and strength. Also, it's clear that you're a natural when it comes to gliding." Rainbow Dash helped Scootaloo back onto her hooves and said, "Now that we know what we need to focus on, we can adjust accordingly. Let's go." The young pegasus nodded, taking a few deep breaths and rubbing her chest before following the older pony back up the cloud stairs.

~~~~

Three Days Later
Celestia's sun was slowly disappearing over the horizon, washing the land in a soft orange glow. Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash were lying near the edge of their temporary home, taking a much needed break (at least, that's what it was for Scootaloo). Both mares were quiet as they relaxed in the light of dusk. Finally, it was Rainbow who broke the silence. "Hey Scoots?"

"Hmm?" The pony in question mumbled, not bothering to open her eyes.

"I'm really impressed with how far you've come this past week and I just wanted to tell you that I'm proud of ya." Scootaloo lifted her head up and looked at Rainbow Dash, a smile on her face.

"Thanks Rainbow Dash...it means a lot to hear you say that."

The cyan pegasus chuckled and said, "I think you deserve a reward for all your hard work."

"You don't have to get me anything. You helping me is-" Scootaloo's statement was cut off as Rainbow pulled the young pegasus close and connected their lips. Scootaloo was shocked beyond belief and the only thing that ran through her head was, 'Oh...my...Celestia....'

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Scootaloo's mind went into overdrive. 'I can't believe it! Dash kissed ME!' The younger mare's heart sped and suddenly the world seemed brighter, sounds seemed more beautiful, colours seemed more vibrant...but despite the joy, Scootaloo felt...wrong. 'This...this is what I wanted right? So why am I not enjoying it as much as I should?' Scootaloo broke the kiss and looked away when she saw Rainbow's confusion.

"I-I'm sorry Dash...but I can't do this."

"What do you mean?"

Scootaloo took a breath and said, "I thought I would want this...but it doesn't feel right. Not because we're both mares but...I dunno."

"But I thought you loved me." Scootaloo turned her head and gazed at Rainbow, surprise in her eyes. "Y-you knew?"

"Yea? I've known for quite awhile now. I gotta say, you're cute when you're flustered." Scootaloo's surprise swiftly became anger.

"You knew this whole time and it didn't occur to you that should've told me that YOU KNEW?! Do you know how hard things are for me right now? Do you know how long I've tried to get your attention or have you notice me? Do you even care?" Dash finally managed to find her voice in time to answer.

"Of course I do!" Scootaloo just rolled her eyes.

"Yea, sure you do. Of course you care!" Scootaloo was right in Dash's face now. "For years I've tried to get you to notice me and my affection for you, but you never seemed to care. You always had something more important to do or somewhere to be every time I tried to bring it up! Do you realize how much sleep I've lost or how many tears I've shed because of you? NO, you DON'T!" Scoots took a few breaths before turning away and walking off. "I'm sleeping on the other side of the cloud...I need to be alone."

Dash stood there over and landing in front of the orange mare. "Don't you DARE accuse me of not caring! I care about my friends, Cloudsdale, Equestria, and a ton of other stuff! I'll stand by all of those things no matter what."

"Caring and being loyal are two different things. Besides, I know that when you're with Fluttershy and all them, you're constantly trying to make yourself stand out or make yourself look better. You don't care about anypony but yourself." Scootaloo made her way around Rainbow and kept walking. Needless to say, Dash was furious.

"I care about Applejack!"

The younger mare just turned and with a cold stare asked, "Then why aren't you two together?" All the anger in Rainbow's eyes drained away in an instant.

"Low blow.." The cyan pegasus mumbled, trying to resist the urge to tear up.

"It's also the painful truth." Scootaloo continued to walk to her destination on the cloud while Rainbow simply sat there, a single tear escaping her eye.

~~~~

The next day, the pair continued Scootaloo's training with Dash staying silent unless she was scrutinizing something Scoots had done wrong. The orange pegasus could practically feel the sting in every word that left Dash's mouth. 'Well...there's not much I can do about it now. I'll apologize when the weekend comes.' Scootaloo thought as she ran a course designed to kept her off the "ground" by forcing her to use her wings to get from one platform to the next. The young mare grit her teeth as she approached the last section.

In order for her to make it to the last platform, Scootaloo would actually have to fly instead of just using her wings for extra height in a jump or for added momentum for a running jump. Scootaloo excelled on the course as a whole, but she could never make the last jump, always falling when her wings refused her commands to fly. With a deep breath, Scotaloo jumped and spread her wings.

She decided to glide about half way before attempting to flap her wings. The result was the same as usual: failure. Scootaloo fell until she hit the familiar lump of cloud below her. Scoots gave a frustrated sigh, smacking the cloud before saying, "Can't I just move on to something else and come back to this?"

"No." Before Scoots could saying anything back, Dash was gone. The orange pony gave an irritated huff as she tossed her mane out of her face and started to climb the stairs that would take her back to the beginning.

~~~~

"Ugh! This is so stupid!" Scootaloo cried out angrily. She had failed the course for what had seemed like the hundredth time that day. In a fit of rage, Scoots spun and kicked out with her hind hooves at the base of the platform that mocked her. However, to her surprise, was the small poof sound she heard when her hooves connected. Scootaloo turned back around and saw a chunk missing from the cloud. Every other time the young flier had tried cloud manipulation, her hooves would either pass through the cloud, or they would connect as if the cloud were solid as if it were stone.

"Well, at least you're making SOME progress." The smile that had surfaced on Scototaloo's face disappeared when she heard Dash's voice. "We're done for the day." Scootaloo looked and saw Luna's moon begin to grace Equestria as Celestia's sun was bidding it farewell for the night. The orange mare sighed and headed for the stairs for the final time.

~~~~

When Scootaloo awoke the next day, she could immediately tell something was wrong. 'Dash isn't shaking me awake and it's much later than it usually is when we start...' The orange pony stood up and gasped at what she saw. Somehow, she was now far above the training cloud on a cloud that was hardly bigger than she was. Fear rose in Scootaloo chest as she tried to find any source of Rainbow Dash. "R-Rainbow Dash? What's going on?" The sudden answer that came almost immediately afterwards made Scoots shout in surprise and nearly fall off the cloud.

"It's a progress test." Rainbow Dash slowly flew out from below the cloud and continued talking. "This is a test used in every Flight School in Cloudsdale. It'll measure how much progress you've made in terms of flight. You'll have to fly from here, to that cloud over there." Scootaloo followed Dash's hoof and saw a cloud the size of a speak in the distance hovering at the same height as the cloud she was on.

The orange mare nodded hesitantly before nervously asking, "Umm...since we both know that my flying skills are next to none, perhaps we could maybe-"

"No. I'm not going to change or modify the course in any way, shape, or form. And you aren't allowed to back down either. Now get going, and don't worry about falling. The cloud will stop your fall as usual." Scootaloo swallowed the fear in her throat and hoped Dash couldn't hear her heart hammering in her chest or her knees knocking together as she approached the edge of the cloud. However, despite her overwhelming fear, a thought ran through the mare's mind as she gazed at the seeming infinite expanse below her.

'I bet this sight would be really beautiful if I were here under different circumstances...Equestria is spread out below me, the sun is shining warmly, the clouds below are peacefully hovering...' After a moment, Scoots shook her head. 'No more stalling. You can do this. Just glide most of the way across and then try to fly the rest of the way.' Scoots gave a small smile at the idea, at least, until Rainbow seemed to read her mind.

"And no gliding. This is a flight test, not a gliding test." Fear came rushing back into Scootaloo's body. The mare took one more look over the edge of the cloud and noticed that she was much higher up than she originally thought.

'Okay...you can do this Scootaloo. You can fly!' The young pegasus took a step back before running forward and jumping over the side, flapping her wings as hard and as fast as she could. When the usual sense of free-falling didn't become immediately apparent, Scoots couldn't stop the grin on her face as she slowly opened her eyes. "I-I'm doing it! I'm flying, I'm-" At this point, Scootaloo's wings quit working due to the over-exertion of her flying. "-falling!"

Scootaloo immediately began falling, panic spreading swiftly through her orange body. She tried to flap her wings again, but cried out as intense pain lanced up and down her wings. The orange pony blinked away the pain tears and screamed for her older counterpart. "Rainbow Dash! Help!" However, no cyan blur came rushing to help her, no rainbow streak came flying to rescue her. Scoots felt tears in her eyes as she continued to plummet and cry for Rainbow's assistance.

The orange mare began to flail in panic, hoping that it may at least slow her decent. However, it was clear that she wouldn't be slowing down any time soon. Scootaloo felt the tears leave her eyes and become lost in the wind as fear overtook her mind. Finally, the pain, exhaustion, and rapid loss of altitude combined with Scootaloo's short, quick breaths of panic made the pony close her eyes as she drifted into unconsciousness.

Dash watched it all unfold from Scootaloo's destination, a small look of irritation on her face. "Hmm...looks like she gave up." Rainbow had seen the younger pony stop moving and had interpreted it as defeat on Scootaloo's part. The cyan pegasus sighed, flipping her vibrant hair away from her face. "Guess I should start heading down." Dash stood and lazily began to fly down from her perch. As she continued her descent, Rainbow glanced down and saw that Scootaloo was about to make contact with the cloud. "And here I was, thinking that she was determined." Dash mumbled in both frustration and disgust.

However, a small voice spoke up in her mind. 'You know that isn't very fair. Don't take your anger out on her. You brought those words upon yourself and you have nopony to blame but yourself. If you keep this up, you'll do something you regret.' The Element of Loyalty just rolled her eyes and kept going, her eyes scanning the infinite expanse that was the sky. However, a large puff of white caught Dash's attention, causing her to look down. Her eyes widened in horror at what she saw.

A hole had appeared where Scootaloo had hit the cloud, allowing the young flier to continue to fall. "Hold on...she should've screamed or started doing something..." Realization hit Rainbow like a thousand thunderheads. "She isn't moving or screaming because she isn't awake!" Rainbow's wings snapped to her sides as she dove before flaring open to help her gain speed.

As Dash continued her dive, she felt a familiar sense of resistance as the air began to cone around her. "Hold on squirt! Dash is coming!" As the last word left her mouth, the cyan pegasus broke through the barrier and a spectrum of colour exploded behind her as she left a rainbow trail. However, it was quickly becoming clear that even with the tremendous burst of speed gained from the rainboom, the ground would meet Scootaloo before Rainbow could catch her. "No...no no no no no!"

Dash strained to get more speed, even as pain was starting to form in her wings. The cyan pegasus struggled to keep the pain in check, only wincing when it was becoming too much. "C'mon stupid wings! I need to go faster!" Tears were racing from Dash's eyes to become lost in the wind that roared past her. Rainbow knew that Scootaloo was going to die...and that it would be all her fault. She had allowed her anger and jealousy get the best of her, and now Dash was going to pay the price. Rainbow closed her eyes and hoped that Scootaloo wouldn't feel any pain as she...passed on.

One second...two seconds...three seconds

The cyan flier cracked an eye when there was no heart-wrenching snapping of bone, no gut-twisting sound of blood exploding from the body due to pressure. With her eyes fully opened, Rainbow was able to see why. There on the ground was Scootaloo, wrapped in the hooves of Fluttershy. "Flutters!" Dash hurried the rest of the way down and landed in front of her friend. "Thank Celestia you were-"

Rainbow's sentence was cut off as she staggered back a step from the force of the yellow hoof that had struck her face. Shocked, Rainbow looked up at her friend's face and was afraid of what she saw. Tears were freely flowing from Fluttershy's eyes while she wore a face of rage. Rainbow had seen Fluttershy annoyed and even angry, but she had never seen the shy pegasus this furious.

However, what scared Dash most wasn't the expression on Fluttershy's face, but rather the fact that Fluttershy had hit her...and that it had hurt. Never in all their years together had Rainbow Dash EVER seen the timid pony raise her hoof against another pony, and that frightened Rainbow more than her worst nightmare.

"What is WRONG WITH YOU?!" Fluttershy accused, making sure to keep Scootaloo close to her.

"I-I just.." Rainbow's sentence died in her throat as she tenderly touched where she had been hit, wincing as she did.

"You know full well that she can't fly very well, and you KNOW that the Distance Flight is only for pegasi about to graduate from Flight School! Honestly Rainbow Dash, how could you be so reckless?" Dash desperately wanted to say something, anything to defend herself, but found that she had lost her ability to speak, or even move as she was locked within a Stare so powerful and intimidating that Rainbow wouldn't wish it upon Nightmare Moon, King Sombra, or any other villain the Elements had faced in their lives.

"Did you even think of taking the correct safety precautions? Obviously you didn't because even I can tell that you haven't been doing routine maintenance on the cloud, and even then, where are the back-up clouds that are there in case something like this happens?" As Fluttershy spoke, she carefully lifted Scootaloo onto her back and covered the young mare with her wings as best she could.

"Do you have any idea how this could affect her wings? She'll be lucky if she can even USE them after this! I don't know what happened up there, but it's no excuse for letting this happen." Fluttershy turned away from the cyan pegasus and began walking. It was at this point that Rainbow had finally regained her ability to create words.

"But Fluttershy-"

"No! I don't want to hear ir Rainbow Dash! You've made some pretty stupid mistakes in your life, but this is definitely the worst." Fluttershy turned her head and with cold teal eyes whispered angrily, "I hope you're proud of yourself." With that, Fluttershy took off for home, taking care not to jostle the unconscious mare on her back too much.

Rainbow remainded motionless as she watched Fluttershy gallop off with Scootaloo on her back as her mind tried to make sense from what had just happened. Eventually, a single tear ran down her face. Then another, then it was followed by another. Finally, Dash's body unlocked and the pegasus collapsed, weeping. For the first time since Applejack left her three years ago, Rainbow Dash cried loudly and openly while the sun continued to shine as if nothing could go wrong in the world.

~~Two days later~~

Scootaloo's eyes slowly fluttered open as she woke from her heavy slumber. Naturally, she scanned the room she was in sluggishly as her mind tried to get up to speed. With limited mental prowess, Scoots deduced that the room she was in was quiet, comfy, and homely. There were various knick-knacks adorning the room, adding to it's already humble feeling. Next in her thought train was the bed. It was ridiculously soft and inviting, nearly prompting the orange pegasus to drift back into sleep's embrace.

As Scootaloo became more awake and aware, she began to truly listen for any kind of sound for an indication of where she was. All she could hear other than the occasional bird chirp was her own heartbeat and thoughts. 'Where am I? It seems awfully familiar but I can't quite put my hoof on it...' After a few moments of raking her mind, Scootaloo sighed as she kept drawing a blank. 'Guess I'll have to worry about the where later. Perhaps I should focus on what happened.'

Memories of her falling towards the ground and passing out before then swam in the mare's mind and she couldn't help but shudder. "Then...am I...dead?" Scootaloo pinched herself, wincing slightly as she rubbed the tender spot. "Guess not." Scoots looked around the room a bit longer before her gaze was drawn to the clouds lazily floating by outside the nearby window. "I wonder how those clouds are moving on their own?" The orange pony pondered aloud.

The urge to get up and check came and went as Scoots continued to lay in the bed, enjoying the stillness of the world around her. 'I wonder though...How exactly did I get here? Did Rainbow Dash save me? No...she couldn't have or else I'd be in a hospital right now or something, not somepony's home.' The orange mare tried to remember anything after passing out and all she could come up with was a fuzzy noise that sounded like somepony yelling into a pillow.

With a quiet sigh, Scoots gave up trying to figure out what the thought was. The young pony's thoughts turned into idle ones, thinking of things like what the other Crusaders were doing, or whether or not it would be busy at the flower shop. Eventually, Scootaloo's thoughts turned to Fluttershy. 'I wonder how she's doing? Probably fine other than me hindering her love life...Hmm...how do I go about addressing that? It's not exactly a casual topic. And how in the world to I tell her that I...like her too?'

Scootaloo knew she couldn't just be blunt and say something like, "Hey, this is crazy, but I think I love you back." However, she also didn't want to prolong it for too much longer and keep Fluttershy in that pain. The mare was so deep in thought that she didn't hear the delicate hoofsteps on the wooden floor. "Scootaloo?"

The sound of her name snapped the orange pegasus back to reality and saw Fluttershy staring at her, standing at the top of the stairs that led into the room. The familiarity of the scene finally clicked within Scootaloo's mind. 'That's why it looks so familiar...this is Fluttershy's room...in her house.' Scoots didn't say anything right away, instead prompting to move and sit up. However, Fluttershy moved quicker and gently pushed her back down. "Don't move around too much. You've been out for awhile."

"How long was I out for, a few hours?" Fluttershy seemed hesitant to answer the younger pony's question, but eventually yielded.

"Two days..." Scootaloo's eyes widened and she kicked off the blanket and dodged Fluttershy's grabs before rolling off the bed and onto her hooves. She didn't make it more than a step before collapsing to the floor as her legs became wobbly and gave out on her. Thankfully Fluttershy moved and caught her before she hit the floor. "Careful. You haven't been on your hooves for the duration of those two days so they might be a little...numb." Scoots nodded and struggled to get up before allowing Fluttershy to assist her.

"Out for two whole days...what exactly happened to me?" Fluttershy was quiet for a moment, as if collecting her thoughts before speaking.

"Well...I don't know all the details, but I'll tell you what I know. I was out for a walk when I thought I'd come check up on you and Rainbow. As I was headed towards the cloud, I saw you falling. At first I thought Rainbow would help you...but after you fell through the cloud I knew I had to act. I have never flown so fast in my life and I didn't know if I was going to make it to you in time..."

Scootaloo could see that this was distressing the kind mare as Fluttershy's mind acted out what would've happened should she have failed to catch Scootaloo. So, the orange mare gently put her hoof on Fluttershy's and said, "But you did get there in time, and for that I'm eternally grateful."

Fluttershy smiled warmly and whispered, "Thank you." The two sat in silence for a good ten minutes before a word was spoken. "So...if you don't mind my asking...what exactly happened up there?" The yellow pegasus asked, albeit hesitantly. Scootaloo looked down and was silent. "I-I'm sorry I asked. You don't-"

"No, you're fine. I'm just...playing it over in my head is all." Scoots explained. She took a breath and continued. "It was...Monday I believe...Dash told me that she had known about my feelings for her after she...kissed me." Scootaloo saw Fluttershy tense up and wanted to apologize, but instead kept going. "After she told me, I kinda flew off the handle and chastised her for it and of course she snapped back at me. Then, when she said that she cared about Applejack...I called her out on it."

Fluttershy gasped quietly, but said nothing, instead taking in all the information. Both mares were silent again as they went over their thoughts. However, the silence was broken by Scootaloo's stomach. The orange mare laughed awkwardly and asked, "So...can I maybe have some lunch?" Fluttershy laughed and nodded, helping her younger counterpart off the bed and down the stairs into the kitchen. Scootaloo fought the tingling sensations that quickly attacked her legs as she walked around.

"Where's Star?" Scoots asked, noticing the lack of a fox within the home.

"She's out with some of her friends. I told her to go out for a bit...she never left your side when I brought you here." The yellow pegasus said, grabbing various things with which to use.Scootaloo just nodded and continued walking around the kitchen, trying to rid herself of the tingling that plagued her. When she was satisfied, Scoots hopped up onto a chair and waited.

'Maybe I should say something? I need a way to break the ice...' Before Scootaloo could continue that particular train of thought, a bowl of vegetable soup was placed in front of her, steam rising from the bowl and into Scootaloo nose, making her mouth water.

"Is this okay?" Fluttershy asked as she placed a bowl down for herself.

"Yes. Thank you very much Fluttershy." Scootaloo blew on the soup a few times before taking a spoonful into her mouth. The warmth quickly spread through her body as she swallowed, making her shiver internally in delight. The pair ate in a silence, but for different reasons. Fluttershy's was a content silence, one that she was used to and Scootaloo's was from being deep in thought. When they had finished, the yellow mare took the bowls and placed them in the sink to be washed.

Scootaloo on the other hand headed for the door. "Thank you ever so much Fluttershy, I really appreciate everything you've done for me...but I need to be heading home. I have some...things I need to sort out." The orange pony opened the door, but found she couldn't cross the threshold of the home. So, she took a step back and tried again with the same result. "What the? Why can't I leave?" Scoots asked herself quietly.

"Because you're afraid." Scoots turned and saw Fluttershy standing beside her, looking off into the distance.

"Afraid?"

"Mhmm. Think about it. You nearly fell to your death and despite being unconscious for the actual event, you're still going through the shock of a near-death experience." Scootaloo said nothing, instead staring at the lazily floating clouds. "Those are Everfree clouds." Fluttershy said, noting the younger pegasus's interest in them.

"Huh? You mean like from the Everfree Forest? How?"

"I'm...not entirely sure how they form. But since I live so close to the Forest, I see them every so often if they make it this far. Watch." Scootaloo followed Fluttershy's hoof to a solitary cloud. The cloud darkened rather quickly, going from a pale white to a storm grey and began to quiver before simply popping with a crack of thunder. "Since Everfree clouds aren't pony-made, they are unstable outside of the Everfree Forest and as such, cannot survive very long outside the foreign environment of the Forest."

"Wow..." Scootaloo said, watching another cloud follow suite and pop with a crack of thunder. It wasn't very loud, but still audible to the two pegasi standing in the doorway. The pair stood there and watched the clouds before Fluttershy took a breath and said, "C'mon. I need to change your wraps and work on your wings."

"Huh? What do you mean?" Scootaloo turned to look at Fluttershy, but also saw the answer to her question. Her wings were completely wrapped in medical tape to keep them from moving. Fear swiftly rushed through Scootaloo's system at the thought of her wings being messed up permanently. However, reason found a spot in her thinking as she noticed there was no blood.

"Wait...there's no blood or anything. Why do you need to change them?" She asked Fluttershy. The older mare said nothing, instead pointing to a plush rug in the centre of her living room.

"I know, and I still need to check your wings. There were in pretty bad shape." Panic came back and flooded Scootaloo's mind as she laid down on the rug as instructed by Fluttershy.

"W-what exactly do you mean?" Scootaloo almost didn't ask the question, but figured that it'd be better for her to know so she didn't jump to conclusions or think up crazy theories.

"Well...due to the stress and exertion, you pulled, strained, and tore a few crucial muscles needed for flight. Plus, your feathers were in tatters and bent all out of shape. Finally, you had a few fractures on your wing bones. I wrapped them after Aloe and Lotus helped me with your muscles and after I treated the bones."

"Aloe and Lotus? You mean the spa sisters?" Scootaloo asked in confusion, trying not to cry out in pain as she felt every little one of Fluttershy's touches.

"Mhmm. Not many ponies know it, but they're actually Orthopedic Specialists, highly renowned from where they come from. Anyways, they taught me what I should do so I could care for you here and not move you around from place to place." The young mare nodded and bit her lip as Fluttershy continued her care. "I'm really sorry if this hurts." Pain kept exploding in Scootaloo's mind as time went on and every little grunt or groan she let out was quickly apologized for on Fluttershy's part.

Finally, when Fluttershy finished, she re-wrapped Scootaloo's wings while the young pony panted, wiping away the sweat beads on her brow. "Sorry..."

"It's alright...I think...I think I'm gonna just...go back to sleep if that's okay...." Scootaloo mumbled as her eyes closed and she went back to sleep. Fluttershy smiled and carefully loaded Scootaloo onto her back and replaced the young mare in her bed.

"Rest well Scootaloo." Fluttershy whispered before kissing the mare's forehead and quietly heading back downstairs.

A Confident Picnic, A Jealous Observer, and An Angry Mistake

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Scootaloo woke with a start, cold sweat drenching her body. 'J-just a dream...that's all it was...Just...a dream.' she thought to herself as she tried to stop shivering. The mare wiped away the sweat and just sat there in the bed, trying to calm herself down. She gazed out the window and saw a small sliver of Luna's moon, but whether it was rising or falling, Scootaloo had no way of knowing. "I need to get up." Scoots mumbled as she rolled off the bed. She was a little shaky on her hooves at first, but she managed to keep her balance and quietly head downstairs.

The first thing the orange pony saw was Fluttershy asleep on her couch. Scootaloo couldn't help but smile at the peaceful pegasus that was still sleeping. Once she was on the ground floor, Scoots turned and stopped at the back door, a light shiver rushing over her body. “You can do this...” Scootaloo took a deep breath and willed herself forward. She was surprised that it had worked as easily as it did as she walked out the back door as quietly as she could. She made it about six steps outside before a quiet bark made her stop.

The orange pegasus turned and saw Star sitting there, her tail wagging slowly. "Well c'mon then." Another bark and the fox quickly stepped in line with Scootaloo. The pair walked in silence for about a half hour before a voice called out to them.

"Pleasant night, isn't it?" Scootaloo turned and saw the Princess of the Night walking up to her.

“Yea. Just as lovely as always Prin-I mean, Luna.” The alicorn chuckled and once she had caught up, she matched pace with Scoots and Star.

“May I ask who your little friend is?” Luna asked, watching the fox scamper about.

“That's Star. I saved her from a pack of Timberwolves when she was little and she's been stuck to me ever since. She stays out here with Fluttershy though because I can't afford to keep her at my house.”

“I see. She is quite adorable. May I ask why she is named Star?” Scootaloo smiled as the memory came rushing back to her.

“Well, I spent all day thinking up a name for her and finally, when evening rolled around, I looked up and saw the first star of the night, so that's what I named her.” Scoots couldn't see it, but Luna was smiling and resisting the small tear that wanted to roll forth from her eye.

'Named after a star that I brought out...' The ponies walked and talked while the fox just bounded around in the grass surrounding the path they walked. Eventually, Scootaloo could no longer suppress the yawns that kept trying to fight their way out of her mouth. “We should get you back so that you may rest.” The younger pony nodded and followed the lunar pony back to Fluttershy's cottage. However, just before Scoots could walk in and bid farewell to the princess, she was stopped. “I didn't want to say anything or ask...but what happened to your wings?”

Scootaloo looked at the ground, but whether it was in shame or anger, Luna couldn't tell. “Training accident.” The dark royal pony simply continued to look at Scootaloo. “I...I fell and my wings were over-worked and strained so I couldn't use them...”

“Surely Rainbow Dash would've saved you, correct? I mean, she wouldn't just-”

“I don't really know...Fluttershy ended up saving me...I guess Dash thought that I had just gave up or something...I don't really know all the details after I passed out.” Scootaloo looked back up and saw anger cross Luna's face.

“That...that...ugh! I'll make sure she never sleeps another peaceful night as long as-”

“Luna please...while I appreciate the concern, You don't need to do that. I'm sure Fluttershy took care of it. Besides, I don't mean to offend or anything, but why does this bother you so much?” Luna sighed, fluffing her wings in agitation as she explained herself.

“You are a special pony, Scootaloo. You are one of the few who truly appreciate my night and as such, I feel...compelled to keep you safe and protect you all. Plus, I like to spend time with you. You are...fun to talk to.” Scootaloo couldn't help the small blush rush to her face.

“And I'm thankful for everything you've done. But it's okay. Rainbow Dash surely realizes what she's done and I'm sure she regrets everything about it.”

“Well...As you wish dear Scootaloo. However, I want to be very clear about something." The alicorn stopped, causing the orange mare to come to a halt as well. "If she ever tries anything as foalish as what she did to you again...I will curse her to be plagued for the rest of her life with nightmares spawned from the darkest corner of her mind and I will make her think twice about even closing her eyes to sleep. She will pay, of that I assure you..” Scootaloo nodded, slightly afraid at the conviction behind the regal pony's words. Scoots wanted to say something, but found that fear had a grip on her voice. So, she just walked silently until they could see Fluttershy's home. “Well, here we are. Have a pleasant rest Scootaloo.” With that, Luna turned and flew off.

“Wow...she's scary.” The young mare said as she waved. Star gave a small bark in acknowledgment before heading inside to rest with Scootaloo following behind her.

~~~~

As Scootaloo woke up, she felt rather lethargic, more so than she wanted to. “Feel...so...sluggish...ugh...” With what seemed like a colossal amount of effort, Scoots managed to roll out of bed and onto the floor. However, the young pony found it was difficult just to lift her hooves to move. “Why am I feeling so heavy?”

She asked herself this as she trudged down the stairs and into the kitchen where a busy Fluttershy was feeding various animals whilst making breakfast. “Good morning, Scootaloo.” The yellow pegasus said without turning to watch the younger pony slowly enter the room, plop down on a chair, and rest her head on the table.

“I feel like my head is gonna just break through the table it's so heavy.” Scoots mumbled.

“Huh? Heavy?” Fluttershy finished pouring something into a skillet before turning her attention to her ward.

“Mhmm. I feel sluggish and just...bleh right now. Not sick but just...slow.” Fluttershy nodded.

“I'm guessing that it's just your reaction to your wings being cooped up in those bandages and recovering.” The older mare speculated. Scootaloo said nothing, instead opting to just be still.

“So...what's for breakfast?” The orange pegasus asked after a few minutes of silence.

“Just omelets and pancakes. Is that alright?”

“Of course. I don't think anypony could complain about your cooking. I mean, it's so amazing and delicious. Speaking of which, how did you learn how to cook like that?”

Fluttershy smiled and said, “My dad actually taught me. My mother was a terrible cook so we always relied on Daddy to cook something.” It was obvious that Fluttershy, while not meaning to, was flaunting her father.

Scoots couldn't help but chuckle and say, “Ahh, gotcha.” When the meal had finished cooking, Scootaloo managed to sit up and eat the food, noticing that she was slowly losing the lethargy that had been keeping her down. “I feel much better now. Thanks, Fluttershy.”

The yellow pony blushed at the praise and said, “It's no problem.” Scootaloo handed her plate over to Fluttershy's awaiting hoof and thanked the older pony once again before getting out of the chair. Fluttershy waved the apology away and continued with her schedule. Scoots, on the other hand headed into the living room and sprawled out on the rug from before.

“What to do...what to do...” The young mare mumbled to herself as she tried to figure out a way to express herself to Fluttershy. 'This almost seems...wrong. I mean...I'm moving on from Dash a little...quicker than normal. Don't ponies who have their dreams crushed like that usually a bit more depressed for a longer time period? I mean...Dash nearly let me die, ignored and waved away all my affection for her as well as any attempts to really bond with her...But still, it seems a little abnormal that I'm moving on so soon. Maybe I did it because I'm unable to truly feel love...Is it going to be like that if I get with Fluttershy and we end up breaking up? Will I just move right along after that or...'

Scoots sighed and just continued to think. Meanwhile, Fluttershy had finished her chores in the kitchen and was about to move outside to take care of some animals. She, of course, snuck a peek at the orange pegasus before doing so. 'I hope she's doing okay...' Fluttershy thought as she closed the door behind her. As the yellow pony fed her animals and tended to their needs, a thought kept popping up in Fluttershy's mind, despite the numerous times she had tried to push it away. 'Scootaloo isn't going to get with Rainbow after all...does that mean I can...No! It's much too soon for me to even consider asking Scootaloo how she feels, or confessing myself to her. I mean, she just had her life dream crushed for Celestia's sake! I've waited this long, I can wait a little longer.' Fluttershy told herself, but it still made her anxious.

'What happens if they happen to make up? What will happen then? Will Scootaloo move on with Dash and leave me behind? Oh...' The timid mare could feel sorrow begin to build up in her chest, so she tried to shake it away and lose herself within her tasks. However, Fluttershy's train of thought was interrupted by a soft series of pokes. “Huh? Oh, is there something you needed Scootaloo?” The younger pony opened her mouth to speak, but slowly closed it and instead directed her gaze at the ground where she had already begun to dig a small rut. “Scootaloo, are you-”

“Would you like to go on a picnic with me?”The orange pony blurted out suddenly without looking up.

“A picnic? I dunno...are you sure you're up for it? I don't want you to strain yourself too hard.”

Scootaloo shook her head and said, “I'll be fine, but thanks for the concern. Anyways, this'll be good exercise for me. Plus, I have school tomorrow, so I figured I'd do something that I'll enjoy and will be less tiring before my Spring Break ends, ya know?” Fluttershy smiled and nodded.

“Alright. Allow me to finish up and I'll get started on the food and then-”

“Oh...well, I already fixed up some stuff. All we gotta do is grab a blanket and we'll be good to go.” Fluttershy was surprised, but just smiled. “My, you must really want to go on this picnic.” Scoots said nothing, but instead bobbed her head up and down, ignoring the strands of her mane tickling her face and headed back inside to make last minute preparations.

~~~~

'Why am I in such a twist about all this? I mean...I did kinda deserve that, but still! That was a little harsh...' A cyan pegasus thought to herself as she rolled on a cloud from her stomach to her back. She tenderly touched her face where she had been hit and winced. The pain was still fresh and if she weren't so distracted or upset, she might've taken it more seriously, but at this point, she honestly just didn't care. 'Maybe I should've just told her that I knew. Then none of that would've happened and then... what? Would I be happy? Could I be content with being with Scoots like that?'

After Dash had stopped crying when Fluttershy took Scootaloo away, she was at first somewhat glad. She now had time for herself again so that she could properly analyze what had happened. However, as the days went by, Rainbow found herself constantly thinking about how she wanted Scoots in her life romantically. 'I don't get it though...I never thought of her that way until recently.

But the thought that she'll move on from me and find love with somepony else...' A thought flashed through Rainbow's head: what if Scootaloo got with Fluttershy? 'She would be really thankful that Flutters saved her...they might even get to know each other better and...' The thought put Dash on edge. 'She's moving from me to Shy? Wow...' Emotion bubbled up within the cyan pegasus and it irritated her that she couldn't figure out what it was.

She was about to scream in frustration when she heard voices below her. “Wow Fluttershy! This part of the forest is so beautiful! I mean, all of White Tail Woods is pretty, but I don't think I've seen this part of it before.”

“Not many ponies actually walk through these woods unless it's for the Running of the Leaves. So it was only by chance that I found this area.” Rainbow Dash looked over the lip of the cloud and saw the yellow and orange pegasi walking together with smiles on their faces. Fluttershy had a picnic basket placed on her back while Scoots had a blanket on hers.

'What're they up to?' Dash followed them from above the clouds, walking along the surface and occasionally peeking down to make sure she was still on the right track. Finally, the pair came to a halt in a small clearing that was out from under the clouds, so Dash settled in at the edge of the closest cloud. However, while she could still see them, the distance made it hard to truly see them. So with a huff, Dash turned and took off for home to see if she could find something to help her. Meanwhile, on the ground, the two pegasi were setting up the blanket.

“Thanks for letting me take the wraps off my wings. It feels SO good to get them out of those.”

“You're welcome, but you'll need to re-wrap them tomorrow morning since you're going to be going home.”

Scootaloo nodded and said, “Do I have to wear them all day?” Fluttershy thought it over as she smoothed out some of the wrinkles in the blanket.

“I wouldn't think so, but leave them on at least until after school. It should only be a week and a half before you can leave them off. I'll speak with Aloe and Lotus tomorrow to be sure.” The young pegasus simply grinned. When they were both comfortable on the blanket, Fluttershy took out the sandwiches that Scootaloo had prepared and set them down on a plate. There were five sandwiches, each cut in half diagonally, and all of them were peanut butter and jelly.

As they dug into their food, they made casual talk. It was around this time that Dash had returned with a pair of binoculars. She quickly looked through them and frowned as she watched the pair below her enjoying each other's company. 'That could be me and Scootaloo...' Rainbow thought bitterly. She continued to watch them for awhile, biting her lip when something particularly amusing was said, causing Fluttershy and Scootaloo to laugh aloud. Finally, when they had both reached for another slice to have a whole sandwich, their hooves touched and they both immediately blushed. 'No way...she...she really does like Fluttershy...So then, what was I to her?'

Dash lowered the binoculars and narrowed her eyes in thought, looking away from the pair. 'Is this...am I...jealous?' As the information ran through Dash's head, she failed to see what had happened next.

“Oh, I'm s-sorry Scootaloo. Go ahead.” Fluttershy apologized and pushed the plate towards Scootaloo.

“N-no, it's alright. Go for it.” The pair simply sat there, neither pony going for another sandwich slice.

'Okay Fluttershy...no more stalling. I have to seize this opportunity like Twilight and Roseluck said! I know I said I'd wait...but she's just too cute!'

'Now's my chance...Here we go.' Both pegasi spoke at the same time.

“Scootaloo-”

“Fluttershy-” They both looked at each other in silence again before Scootaloo spoke. “Fluttershy...I uh...I have something I want to tell you.” The addressed pegasus's heart nearly skipped a beat as she jump to conclusions.

'What's she going to tell me? Is she going to say that she just wants to be friends? Is she going to confess something to me? Oh...' Scootaloo took a few deep breaths before she spoke again.

“Well...we've known each other for a good while now and in that time, you've taken care of me, you've helped me...however, in all that time, I was oblivious to how you felt because I was so focused on one thing that I couldn't see how badly I was hurting you. So...I was hoping that I'd be able to make it up to you by ask if you uh...wanted to maybe...go out with me?” As she neared the end of her sentence, Scootaloo's voice progressively got quieter until it was an almost inaudible whisper.

Thankfully, Fluttershy could hear her just fine since she was used to hearing words that quiet. A large grin formed on Fluttershy's face and to Scootaloo, the older pegasus looked blissfully lost within the thralls of pain medication like Apple Bloom had a few years ago when she had broken her leg. “Fluttershy?”

“Yes Scootaloo...I will go out with you.” Despite the blush on both faces, the pegasi smiled warmly at each other and continued eating in a content silence. Dash looked back down and seen that the mood had changed between the two of them. She peered through her binoculars and saw them both smiling happily with a faint blush on their faces.

'I...I don't believe it...I was replaced by Fluttershy...' Jealousy surged through the prismatic pony and she wanted to kick and scream but most of all...she wanted to just stop. She suddenly felt lethargic, tired, and worn out. After a minute, Rainbow slowly flapped her wings and flew in the opposite direction, unhappiness etched into her face. Down below, the orange and yellow ponies couldn't stop smiling at each other, nor could they fight down the blush they both wore.

Scootaloo wanted to say something, but at the same time was content with the silence. When they had finished, the pair packed up the basket and blanket and headed back slowly, enjoying the environment and each other's company. As they arrived back at Fluttershy's cottage, Celestia's sun was approaching the west horizon. “Thank you Fluttershy and um...T-thanks for accepting my offer and-”

“No, it was my pleasure. If anything, I should thank you.” Scoots chuckled and stared at the horizon for a moment before speaking.

“Would you...mind walking me home?” The orange pony said without taking her eyes away from the sunset

The older pegasus smiled warmly and said, “I'd be delighted.” So, after replacing the picnic items, the pair headed for Scootaloo's home. The couple made idle talk as they walked, not really paying much attention until they actually arrived. “Well...guess I should head home now...Are you going to be okay?” Fluttershy asked, looking in concern at her new lover.

“Yea...but I wouldn't mind you staying the night with me...”

Fluttershy could see the hesitance and slight fear in Scootaloo's eyes, so she said, “Honey, if you want me to stay, just say so.”

Scootaloo looked down at the ground and mumbled, “You... don't mind?”

The elder pegasus pulled the younger into a hug and said, “Of course not.” Scootaloo let out a sigh of relief against Fluttershy's chest and hugged her back.

“Thank you...” Scootaloo said into Fluttershy's coat. The yellow pegasus answered not with words but just by rubbing Scootaloo's back, being careful when her hooves neared Scootaloo's wings. The two sat there in the living room and remained there until Scootaloo fell asleep against Fluttershy.

'I can't imagine a more perfect ending for this night...' The older mare thought as she took Scootaloo up to her bed. After tucking her in, Fluttershy stared down lovingly at the orange mare before her. “Sleep tight my dear.” With that, Fluttershy leaned down and tenderly kissed Scootaloo's forehead before heading downstairs to sleep on the couch.

~~~~

The next morning when Scootaloo woke up, she sat up and looked at the clock. It read six-thirty. 'I'm...home? So then, was it all just a dream?' In a fit of fear, the mare rolled off the bed and rushed downstairs. She came to a sudden stop at the sight of her marefriend passed out on the couch, lightly scratching her nose. Relief flooded Scootaloo's body at the sight. 'That's a relief...I thought for a moment...'

Scootaloo shook the thought from her mind and carefully stretched her wings, hissing softly as pain lanced through them. 'Unfortunately that means that the damage to my wings also happened.' With a light sigh, the orange pony moved into the kitchen to begin making herself breakfast. As Scoots finished her cereal, she felt the sensation of a kiss being planted on her head, making her blush lightly. “Good morning Scootaloo.”

“G-good morning.” Fluttershy rummaged through a few cabinets before turning to Scootaloo and asking where the cereal was. Scootaloo couldn't help but giggle at the confused and slightly frustrated look on Fluttershy's face when she asked. “One cabinet over.” Fluttershy opened the next cabinet over and sure enough, there was the cereal.

The yellow pegasus chuckled in embarrassment and said, “I was close.” Scoots got up to wash her bowl while Fluttershy poured the milk and began eating. “When did you wake up? Are your wings feeling alright?”

“I woke up at six-thirty, and they're kinda sore but fine otherwise.” Fluttershy nodded and said, “That's good, but we'll still need to wrap them.” Scoots nodded in response, then headed back upstairs to take a quick shower. When she was finished and dry, Scoots headed back downstairs to see Fluttershy waiting with medical tape. With a sigh, the orange mare laid down in front of Fluttershy and bit her lip as the yellow pony began to wrap her wings. After the short respite (along with hundreds of apologies on Fluttershy's part), Scootaloo bid her new love farewell with a blush and a quick peck on the cheek before taking off for school.

Fluttershy beamed in happiness as she lifted a hoof to where Scoots had kissed her. After she came down from the euphoria, Fluttershy headed back inside and was in the middle of washing her bowl when she noticed that Scootaloo had forgotten her lunch. “Oh my. I better go take this to her.” So the pegasus took the lunchbox in her mouth and headed for the school.

~~~~

When Scootaloo got to school, she found that she was a whole ten minutes early. “Wow...this feels weird.” She mumbled in amusement. So, she sat down and waited, letting her thoughts drift. At first, she was happy for the silence as it allowed her to sift through her thoughts undisturbed. However, her joy swiftly became unhappiness as reality began to slip into her thoughts. 'My wings are wrecked...I lost faith in Dash...I may have been emotionally scarred by the events and just....ugh....' A strange sort of pain took root in Scootaloo and it began to scare her.

“Well well well, lookie here.” Scootaloo didn't even need to turn around to know who the voice belonged to.

“Get lost Rumble. I'm not in the mood.” She heard him chuckle, making her mock gag.

“What happened Scootaloo? Did your chicken nature get to you and you flapped your little wings too hard? Or maybe they were ashamed to be attached to you and just quit working.” Laughter erupted from behind Scootaloo, so she turned and saw most of her class standing behind Rumble.

“I'm gonna say it one more time Rumble. I'm. Not. In. The. Mood.” Scoots said with a harsh voice.

“Aww, well that's too bad because I'm in the mood.”

The orange pegasus stood up and looked the grey pegasus straight in the eyes and said, “Listen, I've had a rough two weeks, so I don't wanna hear your crap right now. I'm pissed as it is and you aren't helping.” As she spoke, Scootaloo narrowed her eyes to drive the point home and it worked...on everypony except Rumble. Most ponies knew that to use such language meant that a pony was pretty serious.

However, Rumble just shook it off and said, “Cry me a river why don't'cha? This just confirms what I've been saying all these years: you're a failure as a pegasus and you'll never be able to fly. Heck, why not just get your wings removed? Or even better, why not clip'em like your loser mommy did?” Rumble laughed at his own little quip, but he failed to notice the sheer rage and hatred radiating off of Scootaloo. Everypony else saw it, however, and even backed up.

“Don't you DARE say that about my MOTHER!” Scootaloo leapt forward, all restraint lost and tackled Rumble to the ground and began to pummel him. His friends tried to help, but were quickly repelled by the vicious mare. Blood began to fly from Rumble's mouth and nose as Scootaloo kept up her relentless attack. The orange pony howled in rage as she continued to attack his face, not caring about the loud cracking sound that came when she hit his chin particularly hard.

Rumble tried to scream and cry aloud, but all that came out were bubbly gurgles and whimpers as blood continued to pour from his mouth. “Scootaloo...” A light tap on her shoulder told Scootaloo that more ponies wanted her to stop. So, she spun and with the momentum struck whomever tapped her. A cacophony of gasps made Scootaloo stop and turn back around to look at who she had hit. Her eyes widened and her tears were no longer of the angry variety.

“F-Fluttershy?” Scoots stepped off of Rumble, who was immediately scooped up and rushed towards the hospital.

“I...I didn't...” Fluttershy turned to look at the young pony and reached out for her, but in her panic, Scootaloo took a step back before running off. Ponies who watched her run by were shocked to see the bloody hoof-prints she left, but eventually those faded, as did the tears that fell from her eyes until there was nothing left but numbness. Finally, with her body exhausted, Scootaloo collapsed. She ignored the pain as she drew in large gulps of air before coughing them back out. 'What have I done...'

A Gift and A Confession

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The orange mare fell into a state of...something. Something that was between depression and self-loathing. “What is wrong with me...I ask her out, then the next day I hit her because I can't control myself? Real smooth Scoots...real smooth.” The young pony's mind began to play out various scenarios as a consequence of her actions. Most involved Fluttershy backing out of their relationship, leaving Scootaloo alone and miserable to the point where she... shed her mortal skin.

Others involved Fluttershy calling upon the guards to hunt her down and lock her away for assault. Only one came up that brought her any comfort: the thought that Fluttershy would understand and wouldn't break up with her or anything like that. “Pff...fat chance THAT'LL happen...” The upset pegasus mumbled to herself. As the morning slowly gave way to the afternoon, Scootaloo fell into a fitful slumber in which she tossed and turned, rolling left and right as nightmare after nightmare assaulted her dreams. Finally, at around five-thirty, the orange pony opened her eyes and screamed.

Fear, pain, and anger. It all came out in the scream that poured forth from between Scootaloo's lips like a fountain. The orange mare leapt to her hooves and ran over to the closest tree, spun, and bucked it as hard as she could. Numbness immediately spread through her legs, but she didn't care. She continued to buck the tree with all her strength and fury until she could stand no longer. Panting, Scootaloo wiped away the tears that had begun to fall at some point during her outburst and sighed. While she did feel a little better to get all the pent up emotion out, she still felt miserable. “How could she even think about forgiving me?”

“Because she cares about you.” The sudden voice made Scoots shout in terror and attempt to run, but she didn't make it more than a few steps before the numbing sensation in her hind legs reminded her of it's presence. So, she turned to face the voice and was surprised by what she saw.

“W-Warm Breeze?”

He gave a light bow and said, “The one and only.”He took a few more steps before sitting down in front of the young pegasus. Scoots quickly straightened herself into a sitting position (which was difficult considering that she had fallen asleep on her stomach and her spine had yet to fully remember that it could bend).

“W-what brings you here?” He yawned for a moment and looked past her at what she assumed was the sunset.

“Well, I came to visit my daughter and see how she was doing.”

'Oh crap oh crap oh crap!' Ran immediately through Scootaloo's mind. “Is...is that right?” She asked nervously.

“Mhmm.” The mare was silent as her gaze drifted to the ground.

“So...I take it that you know...?”

“Mhmm.” After what felt like a lifetime had passed, Scootaloo slowly directed her gaze upward to look the stallion straight in the eyes.

In Warm Breeze's eyes was not the anger she was expecting, but rather a warmth that brought comfort to her troubled mind. Scootaloo stood up and without a moment's hesitation, threw herself at him and buried her face in his chest and with tear choked sobs cried, “I'm so sorry!” over and over while Warm Breeze just softly rubbed her back and whispered comforting words to the guilt-wracked mare. When her tears had run out, the first thing that Scootaloo said was, “I'm pathetic...”

“Oh? And what makes you say that?” The stallion asked, gently smoothing parts of Scootaloo's mane that had become disheveled.

“Here I am, crying my eyes out instead of apologizing and begging for Fluttershy's forgiveness. All because I'm too cowardly to go face the truth. Pathetic.” Warm Breeze softly chuckled, confusing the young pony.

“Fear is strange like that. However, I can guarantee that if you just explain to Fluttershy what happened like you did to me, she will understand.”

“That's not it though! I hit her! I Physically HIT her! I didn't mean to...but still!” Scootaloo said, pushing herself away from the stallion.

“I know you did. However, you are genuinely upset that you did it, and for that, I am not angry with you, nor is she. Trust me, go and talk to my daughter. It'll put both your mind and her heart at ease.” Scootaloo was silent before nodding.

“Okay...” Warm Breeze smiled and stood up, his knees popping as he did.

“Before I go...I want to give you something.”

“Huh?” The stallion lowered his head and very carefully bit the red ribbon that was tied around his right foreleg. Scootaloo wondered how she could've missed it.

“A ribbon?” The orange pony asked in mild confusion.

“Yup. This was given to me by Fluttershy's mother when we started dating...it wasn't until later when we were married and she was pregnant with Fluttershy that I promised her that when our little girl found the love of her life, I was to pass it on to that pony. And that pony... is you, Scootaloo.” Before Scoots could object to such a gift, he had already tied it around her right foreleg, in the same spot it had been on his own leg.

“You are a very special mare you know. I've seen plenty of stallions and a few other mares pine for my daughter, but they all just felt...wrong to me. I don't know what it was about them but they all just seemed like a bad match for Fluttershy. Call it a father's intuition.” Warm Breeze took a step back to admire his handiwork before smiling.“Take care of her, and love her with all your heart. Fare thee well Scootaloo, and good luck.”

With that, he stretched his wings and with one flap, Warm Breeze was airborne and with only two more, he had disappeared behind the treetops. Scootaloo was baffled about how quick he was. “Wow...” A light breeze brought her back to reality as the ribbon strands tickled her belly. “I can't believe he gave this to me...” Scoots admired the ribbon as she twisted her leg this way and that to get a better look at it. As far as she could tell, it was just a red silk ribbon. “I won't let you down, Warm Breeze...nor will I let Fluttershy down.” A determined nod later, Scootaloo was headed back for home as Luna's moon breached the horizon.

~~~~

When Scootaloo made it home, she stopped before she actually went inside. Through the kitchen window, Scoots could see Fluttershy pacing back and forth. It was obvious that the yellow pegasus was very upset and distraught about the events of earlier and were beginning to take their toll upon her. 'I'm so selfish...I put her through that pain just because I wanted to be alone and I just assumed that she'd hate me...I'm a terrible pony.' Scootaloo took a deep breath before she opened the door and called out to her lover. “Fluttershy?”

Not a second later, Scootaloo was swept up in a pair of yellow hooves and crushed in a hug. “Don't EVER do that again! I was so worried about where you had gone!” Scootaloo felt warm tears on her neck, so she comforted the pink-maned mare the best she could. When Fluttershy had calmed down, Scootaloo absently led the yellow pony to her bedroom where they took refuge in the darkness.

Fluttershy seemed to catch on to Scootaloo's intent, so she crawled onto the bed first and waited. The orange mare crawled on after her and immediately cradled herself within the yellow pony's waiting hooves. In the silent darkness, the couple laid, listening to each other's heartbeats while they searched for something to say. Finally, it was Scootaloo who spoke first. “Fluttershy? I'm really sorry about what I did...and I don't just mean about running off like I did. It wasn't right of me to just...lose my temper like that. Even worse is that I hit you...I'm so sorry...” Scootaloo pressed her face into the comfort of Fluttershy's chest and waited for an answer.

At first, she was afraid that Fluttershy was searching for the easiest way to let her down, but her fears were quickly quelled when the older pony spoke. “It's okay, sweetheart. You had every right to be angry with the stallion who was bothering you. I'll admit, you could've handled it a different way, but I don't hold what you did against you. You were just doing what you felt was right.”

“That doesn't excuse what I did. I never want to be that angry again. It scared me...to know that I was consciously doing that to him and that it felt good to do it...and then I hit you...” Fluttershy kissed the young mare's forehead before replying.

“I know. It may surprise you, but I was once in a situation exactly like the one you were in earlier.”

“Really?”

“Mhmm. It was when I was just a filly. There was this bully in my class who would relentlessly torment me for my terrible flying skills. One day, he said that I should just save myself the trouble and get the same disease my mother got and just pass away, and just like you, I attacked him.” Scootaloo couldn't believe what she was hearing. Fluttershy, the epitome of kindness, attacked another pony? If Scootaloo wasn't hearing it directly from Fluttershy's mouth, she'd most likely call the pony who told her a liar.

“I felt so afraid after that...I was afraid that I could just as easily hurt a friend or somepony I cared about like that, and it was because of that incident that I swore that I would never lift a hoof against another pony ever again...and I've upheld that vow up until I hit Rainbow after I saved you.”

“You...hit Rainbow?” Fluttershy sighed unhappily and tenderly squeezed Scootaloo against her for a moment.

“I did. I wish I could take it back, but what's done is done. Besides, I needed her full attention before I spoke. Of course, I could've easily done it another way nonviolently, but...”

“It's okay. You were upset and weren't really thinking everything through.” Scoots said, trying to keep Fluttershy out of the depression she was heading for.

“Maybe...But anyways, after I was pulled off the colt, I was transferred to another school in Cloudsdale.” Fluttershy leaned back a little and Scootaloo could see the dim reflection of herself in Fluttershy's beautiful eyes. “You are the only pony I've ever told this story to other than Octavia.”

“Thank you for trusting me with it. I promise not to tell anypony else.” Fluttershy smiled warmly and gently nuzzled the young mare. The two pegasi laid there in the darkness, a content silence hovering in the air.

Scootaloo was nearly asleep when she heard Fluttershy whisper, “Good night Scootaloo.”

“G'night Fluttershy.” The couple closed their eyes and drifted off to sleep, both more relaxed than they had been all day.

~~~~

When Scootaloo woke up the next morning, she couldn't help but blush a dark crimson. At some point during the night, either she or Fluttershy had pulled the other closer and now they were only inches a part, their lips close to touching. Scootaloo could feel the warm breath of the older pegasus on her muzzle and, while it made her smile, it also made her happily warm inside. 'I could get used to waking up like this.' The orange mare thought before carefully maneuvering out from betwixt the yellow hooves to get ready for school. Once again, as Scootaloo was eating her cereal, she felt a light kiss on her head. “Good morning Fluttershy.”

“Morning.” The yellow pegasus got herself a bowl as well and the couple ate and talked until it was time for Scoots to leave. “Would you like me to walk you to school? In case Rumble is there?” The orange pegasus hadn't thought about facing the stallion again so soon and wondered what would happen.

“Yea...that'd probably be a good idea.” Fluttershy nodded and washed her bowl, then followed Scootaloo out the door to the school. However, when they got close, an older mare shouted and quickly ran up to the pair.

“You! You're the little monster who hurt my poor little Rumble! Guard!” Scootaloo looked at Fluttershy in confusion as a guard came walking over.

“Yes Bright Sun?”

“This is the mare I was telling you about! I demand that you take her away!” The bright orange mare said smugly.

“Um...and do what? She isn't exactly old enough to be put into a prison or dungeon. How old are you Ms...?”

“My name's Scootaloo...and I'm about seventeen.”

The guard turned back to Bright Sun and said, “Yup. Too young. I mean, the most you could really do is fine her.” The guard then turned and trotted away, shouting at a stallion to keep his hooves on the ground and something about disturbing the peace, leaving behind an angry bright orange mare, a slightly confused orange mare, and a defensive yellow mare.

“You...you...ugh! This is all your fault! If you hadn't-” With every word, Bright Sun took a step closer to Scootaloo...that is, until she bumped into Fluttershy. “Move.” Bright Sun hissed.

However, Fluttershy stood strong and said, “You listen here. While I don't encourage violence and agree that this could've been handled differently, your son also could've chosen not to provoke my Scootaloo. So in all honesty, he brought it upon himself. So if you want to be angry at her, you'll have to go through me.” Fluttershy's eyes never left Bright Sun's, paralyzing the older mare in place.

“B-but... she... he...” Sensing her defeat, Bright Sun sighed and said, “Of course. I don't like the thought of my baby Rumble causing trouble like this...but I suppose I need to face that. I'm sorry for bothering you Ms. Scootaloo.” With that, the bright mare bowed in apology and slowly walked off.

“I feel kinda bad for her.” Scoots mumbled, her gaze directed towards the ground as her thoughts on yesterday sprang to mind.

Fluttershy sighed and said, “As do I...but she had no right to just pounce on you like that.” The yellow pony leaned down and kissed Scootaloo's forehead before wishing her a positive day and heading back for town. However, the kiss didn't go unnoticed by two certain ponies.

“Scootaloo!” They cried out simultaneously. The addressed mare turned and grinned at the sight of her friends running up to her.

“Sweetie Belle! Apple Bloom!” She met them half way and the trio hugged, laughing as they did. “Watch the wings!” Scoots said as she felt a pair of hooves drift dangerously close.

“Whoa! What happened? And what was with Fluttershy kissing your head? And...” A stream of questions came flying out of Apple Bloom's mouth, making it hard for Scootaloo to answer. Finally, it was Sweetie Belle's interruption that caused the earth pony to stop.

“I don't know about the wings, but the kiss means that our dear Scootaloo has gotten with Fluttershy. Right?” Scootaloo only needed to blush to confirm Sweetie Belle's question. “That's so adorable!” The unicorn said, crushing Scootaloo in yet another hug.

“T-thanks Sweetie...but I can't...breathe...”

“Oh, sorry. I'm just so happy for you.” Sweetie said, releasing the orange mare from her vice grip.

“Listen, I'll explain everything at lunch okay?” The two mares nodded reluctantly, wishing to know now. However, they knew that class came first, so they all headed into the building and waited.

~~~~

“I can't believe that!” Apple Bloom shouted, sending small bits of sandwich all over Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. “Rainbow Dash almost let you hit the ground and Fluttershy had to come save you?” The earth pony continued.

“That's what I believe happened. I don't actually know what happened after I blacked out...”Scootaloo said sadly. Silence passed between the three for awhile before both Apple Bloom and Scoots realized that during her whole story, Sweetie Belle had yet to say anything while Apple Bloom had interrupted every other third word. The two looked to Sweetie and saw that she was gazing off into the distance. Finally, after another minute or so had passed, she looked back at them and said,

“Romantragedy.”Shock stopped any attempt to speak as Apple Bloom and Scootaloo tried to figure out what Sweetie was talking about. When it became clear that the unicorn had no intention of simply explaining, Scootaloo took it upon herself to ask.

“Umm...beg pardon?”

“Romantragedy: romantic tragedy. You story is so romantic in the sense that Fluttershy had to come and save your life and that you two are a couple because of it. But it's also tragic due to you almost dying and I figured that I'd come up with a word for it.” Sweetie Belle said with a smile.

“Er...thanks but...I'm good Belle.” The unicorn just shrugged and spoke again. “So tell us...how'd it happen between you and Fluttershy?” Apple Bloom started to listen, but ended up turning her head, her attention being drawn elsewhere.

“Well...I think I've always had a thing for Fluttershy deep down in me, but I was so...infatuated with Dash that I couldn't recognize it. Plus, it turns out that Fluttershy has been watching me for quite awhile and that she's cared for me for just as long.”

Sweetie Belle smiled happily for her friend and said, “Well, I hope it goes well for you both.” Before Scoots could thank Sweetie, the unicorn slid up close and after making sure nopony was around, whispered, “So...have you two...done anything yet?” A small blush jumped onto Scootaloo's face as the implications played through her mind, but decided to play ignorant.

“W-what do you mean?”

“You know...” Sweetie Belle leaned ever closer and with her mouth next to Scootaloo's ears whispered, “Kiss?” Scoots nearly fell over in relief at the suggestion and let out a huge breath. “Or touched each other intimately?” Sweetie Belle finished bluntly.

“S-Sweetie Belle! Not out loud!” Scootaloo said, shoving her hoof into her friend's mouth to silence her.

“Bleh!” The unicorn said, spitting the hoof out.

“What're y'all doin'?” Apple Bloom asked, her attention drawn back to her friends.

“I was just asking a simple question and-”

“No, you weren't! That's a very personal question...and no I haven't.” The orange mare whispered the last bit of her sentence, making Sweetie smile and Apple Bloom regard them with confusion.

“Well...whatever. It's time to go back in anyways.” The Crusaders packed up the remnants of their lunch and headed back inside to finish their schooling for the day.

~~~~

A few hours after Scootaloo had left, Fluttershy left as well, heading for the Ponyville Spa to speak with Aloe and Lotus, as well as wait for Rarity for their usual get together. “Ahh, hello Fluttershy.”

“Good morning Fluttershy.” The twins said simultaneously, both with a smile on their face.

“Good morning ladies. Do you mind if I ask you a question?”

“Not at all dear Fluttershy. Please, by all means, ask.” Lotus said, leading Fluttershy back into what they called their “employee lounge”.

The trio took a seat on the couch and Fluttershy asked, “I don't wish to be rude or seem impatient, but how long will it be before Scootaloo can stop wearing bandages on her wings?”

The pair looked at each other and as if a message was sent telepathically between them, both Aloe and Lotus nodded and Lotus said, “Well, that depends on how much they've healed since we've mended them.”

“Well, I changed the wraps this morning and they seem to be stronger than what they were already.”

“Oh? Well that's good to hear. However, to be sure we'll need to examine them ourselves later. Does this afternoon sound good?”

“That would be wonderful.” Fluttershy said with a smile.

“What would be wonderful dear?” Another voice called out from the doorway.

“Oh! Hello Rarity.” The spa twins smiled and welcomed the fashionista as well. The unicorn gave Aloe and Lotus a hug and replying to their welcome in kind before turning back to Fluttershy.

“You still didn't answer my question darling.”

“Oh...well...can we talk about it as we go about our treatment?”

“Well of course!” Rarity said with a smile, leading the two into the back where Aloe and Lotus were preparing for them.

~~~~

“I do believe congratulations are in order! We'll have to have Pinkie throw you a party.” Rarity cried out when Fluttershy had told her about her new relationship. “I had always guessed that you had your eye on dear Scootaloo, but of course I do have an eye for this kind of thing.”The pegasus couldn't help but chuckle at her friend.

“Thank you, but being with Scootaloo is enough for me.”

“Nonsense darling! This sort of event simply MUST have at least some sort of get together with our friends. Let's see, I'll get Twilight and Applejack after I tell Pinkie, then you'll have to get Rainbow Dash and...Fluttershy dear, what's wrong?” As soon as the dress-maker spoke Rainbow's name, she could immediately see a shift in Fluttershy's emotions.

“I...I didn't tell you everything when I told you how I got with Scootaloo...”

“Oh?” Fluttershy nodded and took a few breaths before speaking again.

“You see...I saved Scootaloo from falling to her...death. Rainbow made her jump off a cloud as a test to see if she could fly from one cloud to the next, but I'm guessing Scootaloo tried too hard too early and ended up messing up her wings. I don't know why, but Rainbow didn't immediately swoop down to save her...so I'm happy I was in the area or else...” Rarity gasped aloud while Aloe and Lotus just looked at the marble floor. “I got mad and...and I lashed out at her. I think I may have broken her jaw or something, but I yelled and screamed at her and I'm afraid that...that...”

Fluttershy couldn't take it any more and she allowed the tears that had built up in her eyes to fall and she brought her hooves up to hide her face. “Oh Fluttershy...” The unicorn and two earth ponies wrapped their hooves around the teary pegasus to bring her comfort, allowing her to get the bottled pain out. When Fluttershy had finished crying, Rarity stood up, shaking off her luxurious spa robe and began to stomp towards the exit. “W-where are you going?”

“To give that bull-headed Rainbow Dash a piece of my mind!” The fashion pony said before continuing towards the door.

“N-no!” Fluttershy flew over Rarity and landed in front of her friend, holding up a hoof. “Hold on! Please Rarity, I know you want to do this, but for me, please don't. Both Scootaloo and I think she's suffered enough. I mean, she's probably still suffering. Besides, we don't want this getting out that Scootaloo nearly died. Imagine how angry the town would be if they knew?” Rarity snorted and lightly stomped her left hoof a few times, a habit that told Fluttershy that her elegant friend was quite frustrated.

“Oh very well...but the next time I see her, I'm going to give her such a look...” Rarity shook her head and angrily mumbled to herself as she walked out of the Spa.

“You think you can trust Rarity to keep that kind of gossip a secret for very long Flutters?” Lotus asked, walking up beside Fluttershy to watch the unicorn go.

“I know how much she likes to talk, but she'll definitely keep this a secret.” The yellow pegasus said confidently.

~~~~

Rarity stomped along the path back to Carousel Boutique, angrily whispering words under her breath. “Well howdy Rar. Whoa...uh, you okay sugarcube?” Rarity looked up and into the emerald green eyes of Applejack.

“No, not at all.”

“What's botherin' ya? Maybe ah can help?” The farmer asked.

“Well, you see...”

~~~~

When school had ended, Scootaloo bid her friends farewell and headed for the flower shop. As she walked in through the door, the familiar tingling sound of bells welcomed her and it wasn't a moment later that Roseluck appeared. “Welcome to...oh, heya Scoots.”

“Don't sound so enthused Rosey. All that happiness might make ya keel over.” The young pegasus replied with a grin.

“I'm gonna tell Colgate you said that, then you'll be sorry.” The rose pony chuckled.

“So anyways, what's up? How'd the training go? Can our little Scootaloo take to the skies and...” Roseluck stopped talking as she noticed the orange pony's eyes make their way to the ground. “So you can't fly yet. Nopony said you had to get it down right away. These things take time...or so I'm told.” Rose moved over to the pegasus and lightly patted her back. “Now come on. You've got quite a bit of working coming to you for skipping out for two whole weeks.”

Scootaloo smiled and mentally thanked the older pony for cheering her up. She was also glad that she had removed the wraps from her wings before coming. She didn't feel like repeating her story for a second time.

~~~~

As Scootaloo walked home, she rubbed her shoulder. “Wow...she wasn't kidding.” The pegasus suppressed a yawn and opened the door to her home, surprised at who she saw. “Fluttershy? Aloe and Lotus? What's going on?”

“I invited Lotus and Aloe here to examine your wings to see how soon you can go without wrapping your wings.” Scoots nodded and laid on the floor in front of the spa sisters.

“Ready when you are.” They both chuckled at her eagerness and began their examination. Scootaloo felt rather...uncomfortable in a sense at having two ponies touch her wings so intimately. While she knew that they probably weren't very aware at exactly HOW sensitive wings were, she still wished they would hurry. 'Don't think about it. Think about something else...um...clocks? No, uh...er...' Scootaloo bit her bottom lip as her mind raced to find something to focus on other than the hooves caressing her wings every which way.“H-how much longer?” She asked, hoping that nopony heard the small hiccup in her voice.

“Not too much.” Lotus said simply. The floored pony simply nodded and continued to bite her lip. About five or so minutes later, Scootaloo sighed in relief as Aloe and Lotus relinquished her wings and allowed her to snap them back to her sides. The spa sisters spoke to each other and Scoots just sat up and moved next to Fluttershy, earning herself a soft nuzzle, making the orange pony's face flush red. “Well, it seems that your wings are recovering remarkably fast all things considered. We guess that in about...a week you should be able to go without the bandages. You're quite lucky Fluttershy came to us so soon after it had happened or else it might've been worse than what it is.”

Scoots nodded and hugged Fluttershy tightly. “Thank you Fluttershy.” The yellow pegasus smiled warmly and wrapped a foreleg around the younger pony.

“You're quite welcome hun.” She leaned down and kissed the top of Scootaloo's head. “Would you girls like to stay for dinner? I mean...if it's okay with you Scootaloo?”

“Fine with me.” The spa sisters thanked the orange pegasus and the four of them conversed and laughed in the kitchen as Aloe and Fluttershy prepared the meal (turns out that while Aloe and Lotus were alike in numerous ways, Lotus couldn't cook to save her life). When they had all finished, Scootaloo and Fluttershy bid the spa ponies a farewell and a pleasant evening before sitting down in the living room. “Umm...Scootaloo?”

“Hmm?” Fluttershy twirled her hooves around each other for a moment before talking again.

“Where...where did you get that ribbon?”

“Hmm? Oh! Your dad actually gave it to me.” Scootaloo said, looking down at the ribbon around her foreleg. When she looked back up, she saw tears shimmering in Fluttershy's eyes.

“I see...” Without another word, the yellow pony pulled Scootaloo into an embrace so soft and warm, Scootaloo could help but hug back, lightly pressing her face into Fluttershy's chest as the older pegasus lightly hummed and rocked back and forth. “I don't know if it's too early to say this...but after seeing that ribbon around your leg, I can't help it. Scootaloo...I love you.” Scoots pulled her face away and saw a smile on Fluttershy's lips.

She couldn't help but return the smile and say, “I love you too Fluttershy.” The pair stared into each other's eyes for what seemed like an eternity before Scootaloo worked up the nerve to move forward and quickly press her lips against Fluttershy's, a large blush on her face as she did so. Fluttershy was surprised for a moment, but the smile she wore quickly returned.

“Come on...we should be getting to bed. You have school tomorrow and I need to go back home for awhile tomorrow to take care of what animals that are still with me.” Scoots nodded and followed Fluttershy up to her room and after letting the older pony get comfortable, quickly crawled into her waiting hooves, sighing happily as she felt Fluttershy against her.

“Good night Fluttershy.”

“Good night Scootaloo. Sleep well.” It didn't take long for either pony to fall into sleep's sweet embrace, with each of them dreaming blissfully of the other.

A Shift in Focus

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~~The Next Day~~

Rainbow Dash woke from her fitful slumber, sweat dripping from her brow and pain lancing up and down her jawline. The cyan pegasus moaned, wincing as she massaged her jaw. When the throbbing had mostly subsided, Rainbow rolled off the cloud she had slept on and just before she hit the ground, unfurled her wings and came to a sudden halt before landing.

The jolt made a fresh wave of pain wash over Dash's face, nearly making the pegasus fall over as white flooded her vision. The cyan pony cursed under her breath, keeping her hooves still except for the one massaging her jaw again. Once she was sure that there'd be no more mishaps, Rainbow began her slow walk through town, keeping her eyes glued to the ground. She was left in peace...for all of ten minutes.

“Hey!” Rainbow looked up and saw an angry mare marching up to her.

“Roseluck?” The florist was followed by a concerned blue unicorn with an hourglass cutie mark.

“How DARE YOU!” Roseluck shouted, shoving her muzzle into Rainbow's and crushing their noses together. Dash recoiled back, keeping the cry of pain locked in her mouth. “How could you do that to Scoots? I thought you were her friend!” The cream pony shouted, prodding Rainbow's chest with each word. The pegasus pushed Roseluck's hoof away, but said nothing as she redirected her gaze at the ground, resisting the urge to grind her teeth together and subsequently hurt her jaw even further.

“Roseluck, hun, leave her alone. Can't you see she's hurting?” Rainbow sent a mental thanks out to the pony defending her. “I mean, I'm as mad as you are, but this isn't going to solve anything.”

“You're right...this will!” Dash looked up to see a hoof poised to strike her. However, before it could connect, Roseluck was swept up in a blue aura of magic. Roseluck shouted this and that at the pony named Colgate, but the unicorn ignored her.

“I'm sorry about her...” Rainbow saw that Colgate couldn't even look her in the eyes and in a way, that hurt even worse than the hateful words that Roseluck had shouted.

“'Sfine...” Dash mumbled, stumbling her way past the pair. However, Rainbow's day only got worse from there. She was constantly being harassed by angry ponies that either had some tie to Scootaloo or were just concerned with Rainbow's “teaching” methods. Thankfully nopony attempted to attack her other than Roseluck, but every word stung like an angry swarm of hornets stabbing her all at once. Rainbow was nearly out of town when she was stopped by one last pony, and this pony was the one Dash had hoped to avoid.

“You...MONSTER! How could you do that to my baby girl? She trusted you and you nearly let her fall to her death? What is wrong with you?” Dash frowned and looked up into the eyes of Scootaloo's mother and spoke.

“I didn't mean to! What is up with all you ponies thinking I'm the worst thing to ever happen to Equestria? So I made a mistake and yes, I regret making it but what's done is done!” Pain rocked Rainbow's mind, vision, and her jaw as the mare opposite her smacked her.

“Don't you dare try and justify what you did.” Tears of red hot pain streamed down Rainbow's face as she felt the throbbing ache evolve into a roaring cascade of pain. Unable to take it any more, Dash ran past everypony who had stopped to watch the exchange and just kept running, not caring that every breath she drew only served to make her jaw hurt worse.

Finally, the cyan pegasus stopped running and took a moment to catch her breath and tend to her numbed jaw. When she had mostly composed herself, Dash looked up to try and guess what time it was. It was to no avail as clouds dominated the sky. 'Oh yea...rain storm scheduled for today...' Dash thought off the top of her head. So, instead Rainbow took in her surroundings. She had somehow managed to run into the depths of Sweet Apple Acres.

“Maybe a walk in the rain will clear my head...bonus for nostalgia.” Rainbow mumbled, wincing as the words worked their way out of her pained mouth. Dash took a few deep breaths before walking between the lanes of the apple trees, something she always did when she needed to think whenever she was with Applejack. Memories of happier times surfaced and it only served to push Rainbow's mood further down.

'You had it made and you ruined it...' As the rain began to pour, Dash made no motion to hide under a tree or to fly off. The cyan pegasus was quickly drenched, but took no note of it as she continued to walk.

~~~~

Applejack sighed happily as she towel-dried her mane, allowing the unruly mass of blonde flow around her head without being constricted by a small mane-tie as it usually was. She hummed a light tune to herself as she worked her mane into a less wet state and into a comfortable damp state. When finished, the farm pony tossed the towel into the basket behind her bedroom door and with a light kick, closed the door behind her. Applejack loved these rainy days for it was when she could truly relax, if only temporarily.

She loved the way her room was washed in a pale greyish-blue as the downpour rolled down her window, casting strange shadows on the wall opposite the windows. The orange mare smiled and walked over to the window that wasn't being pounded with rain and opened it to allow the smell of fresh rain into her room. Applejack stood there, her forelegs folded on the windowsill and her head resting on her legs.

She watched the quiet downpour with a tranquil gaze, thoughts coming into her mind and flowing out just as quickly. It was a state of contentment that Applejack relished. However, the tranquility was broken when the farmer saw a pony walking between the apple trees. At first, Applejack thought it might be a thief stealing her apples, but when she looked closer Applejack saw that familiar spectrum of colour being weighed down with water.

“What in tarnation is she doin'?” Applejack rushed out of her room and down the stairs and out the back door. “Rainbow? That you?” If the cyan pony heard her, she made no notion of it. “Rainbow Dash, stop.” However, Dash just kept walking. Applejack shook her head and walked out into the rain, thankful that the ground hadn't become too muddy. When she reached Rainbow, she put a hoof on the pegasus's shoulder and asked, “Sugercube? What's goin' on?”

Applejack made no effort to hide the concern in her voice. Dash didn't immediately turn her head so Applejack just waited patiently, not caring that she was getting drenched so soon after drying off. Finally, Rainbow slowly lifted her head and turned to look at the farmer. Applejack nearly cried at the sight. With one look into Rainbow's half lidded eyes, the farm pony could see all the built up pain, guilt, and anger built up inside her ex-lover.

There was a dull sheen to the cerise eyes that Applejack had never seen before and it scared her. Applejack was so used to the fiery passion and determination in Rainbow's eyes that to see something so contradictory made Applejack's heart hurt. “C'mon hun...let's get you inside.” Rainbow simply followed the orange pony's lead, not saying anything. When the pair had gotten inside, Applejack quickly grabbed two towels and brought them out. “Here ya go sugercube.”

Dash accepted the towel without a word and slowly dried herself off. Applejack had finished quicker and it allowed her to watch Rainbow's actions to try and gauge how upset she was. While Applejack had the fabled “Earth Pony Sixth Sense”, she also knew Rainbow on a very personal level and it was because of that she could usually guess whatever was wrong with Rainbow (or at the very least come close). Rainbow handed the towel back to Applejack when she had finished, but hadn't even touched her face. “Don't'cha wanna dry yer face?”

Rainbow shook her head, not speaking a word. “Sugarcube, why don't'cha-” Applejack carefully touched Rainbow's face and the mare recoiled, a flash of anger appearing and fading within her eyes.

“Please don't touch my face.” Dash whispered. Applejack leaned in to inspect the face of the cyan mare and expected Rainbow to pull away or say something, but instead she just stood there, a downcast look on her face.

“...Yer jaw is dislocated.” Rainbow just nodded. “You knew? How long's it been like that?” Dash was silent, looking back down at the floor. “Rainbow?”

“A few days I think...I don't remember...” Applejack looked on, wincing when Rainbow did.

“C'mon...let's go get yer jaw fixed up.” Rainbow again followed silently as she was lead deeper into the house and into Granny Smith's room. “Hey Granny? Ya mind fixin' up Rainbow's jaw real quick?” The elderly green mare yawned and mumbled.

“Eh wha? Oh hello there deary. When'd you drop by?”

“Hey Granny...” Rainbow mumbled.

“Granny, Dash's jaw's dislocated and we need ya to fix it.”

“Ahh, why didn't ya say so in the first place?” The green mare got off her rocker and tenderly rubbed Dash's jawline, causing Rainbow to wince and resist the urge to jerk away. She'd broken a few things here and there when she had been living with the Apples and while she had been wary of Granny's...abilities, she had quickly come to trust the older mare's ability to reset broken bones. “Ready hun?” Applejack asked, taking one of Rainbow's hooves in her own.

Dash just nodded and steeled herself. Granny mumbled something and all of the sudden, a loud crack! broke the silence of the house, followed by a howl of pain.

“There ya go deary...now then...” Granny clambered back into her chair and promptly fell back asleep as if she had never been awake.

“Dammit...” Rainbow muttered, wiping away the tears of pain trailing down her face.

“C'mon Sugarcube. Let's get'chu upstairs.”

“Thanks Applejack, but I should really-” The cyan mare's voice was cut short as a hoof tenderly placed itself upon her lips.

“I'm not hearing' any of that Sugarcube. Now c'mon.” Rainbow, knowing better than to argue with the orange mare, simply allowed herself to be lead once again. Rainbow was surprised to find that she could still remember the exact locations of squeaky floorboards and the fact that she could remember that there were exactly thirteen stairs that compiled the stairwell. When the pair had arrived in Applejack's room, the orange mare shut the door behind them and immediately asked, “What's wrong, Sugarcube?”

Rainbow sighed and said, “I'd rather not talk about it...”

“Ah know, but we both know that you'll feel better if ya tell me.”

“Maybe I want to keep it that way...” Applejack gave Rainbow one of those looks that said, “You DO know who you're talking to, right?”. Dash sighed and seated herself upon the once familiar mattress of Applejack's bed. “I messed up Applejack...like...really really badly.” The farm pony said nothing, instead hopping up onto the bed beside Rainbow Dash. “I'm sure you heard that I was training Scootaloo on flight...well, let's just say that she wasn't ready.”

The pair looked into each other's eyes and tears were welling up in Rainbow's eyes. “I nearly killed her Applejack...she almost died and it would've been all my fault...” Rainbow broke down at the end of her sentence and cried. Applejack pulled the pegasus into a hug which was fiercely returned with Rainbow burying her face into Applejack's coat while the farm pony just held her tightly and gently brushed her mane with her free hoof.

An hour went by with the two of them sitting in one another's hooves. Rainbow had quit crying half an hour into it and had explained the whole story to the farm pony. When she had finished, the pair had taken to sitting in absolute silence save for the lightly pounding rain on the roof and window. Rainbow eventually let go and stood in front of the window, shadows dancing across her face as the rain poured down the glass barrier. “Everypony hates me now...even one of the few ponies who I thought would always be by my side...”

“Sugarcube, I'm sure Fluttershy didn't mean to hit you...and I know for a fact that she's pro'bly regrettin' up a storm at her own home.”

“Maybe...” Applejack bit her lower lip. It tore her up to see the mare she cared about so down like this. “Where did I go wrong AJ?”

“What do ya mean?” the orange mare asked in confusion.

“I never should've let that happen...I never should have let myself get so riled up like that. I mean, with the way I was acting towards her, she had every right to stand up to me like that and speak her mind but...” Applejack was silent as she searched for the way to approach this.

“I think...Well, frankly, ya ain't used to rejection. So when this happened, it twisted yer insides with anger at the thought that there was somethin' you couldn't have.”

“Like when we split...” Rainbow said in both sorrow and bitterness.

“...Sort of.” Both mares couldn't help but think back on the day with melancholy.

~~Flashback~~

“What do ya mean ya aren't ready? I told ya ta get ready half an hour ago!” Applejack shouted up at her marefriend.

Rainbow frowned and hopped down from the tree she had been snoozing in and said, “I mean that I'm not ready! Besides, I don't even wanna go. There'll be a bunch of ponies there that I don't know and I won't even be able to show off my tricks because they'll all too busy with other stuff!”

AJ snorted and said, “You promised you'd come with us to Vanhoover for the Apple Family Reunion and help out!”

“Yea well...I'm not going. Wonderbolts try out are coming out soon so I have to step up my game and work on my tricks if I'm gonna impress'em.” Rainbow said with a puffed out chest.

“You can do that later. We could really use your help down there.”

“I said no!” By now the two mares were eye to eye, their faces barely inches apart. “C'mon Applejack...you know how much this means to me.”

“And you know how much it means ta ME that we tell the rest of mah family about us!”

Rainbow scoffed and said, “What am I, some kind of trophy for you to show off? I swear, every time we meet some of your family, you can't keep your mouth shut about how we're together and how you have a MAREFRIEND!” Applejack took a step back, her jaw dropped in shock. “So you'll have to excuse me if I'm not so flocking thrilled about meeting more of your family.” Rainbow hissed, her eyes narrowed in anger.

Not one to back down, Applejack reeled in her shock and said, “And what about you? Every time something big needs doin' 'round here, you take off to practice or to sleep! How many times have ya actually helped out when asked? Oh I dunno, maybe twice!” As AJ continued to shout, Rainbow's mood went from fiery and unstoppable to low and upset. “When we got together, you promised that ya'd help me whenever I needed it...and yet you've failed to uphold that promise so many times that ah've lost count...So you know what? I don't care that you ain't goin'. But ah swear to Celestia...”

Applejack turned and headed for the front where her family was waiting. “If ya'll haven't moved outta here when ah get back, ah'll personally kick. You. OUT!” It was Rainbow's jaw's turn to hang open in shock.

“Applejack...d-does this mean that...”

“Yea...it does. Sorry Rainbow, but ah think we're done.”

Rainbow sat there for a moment before shaking in anger and shouting, “FINE! I DIDN'T NEED YOU ANYWAYS!” And with that, the cyan pegasus took off, ignoring the tears flowing from her eyes. Applejack cried as well but did her best to keep the tears away, wiping her eyes before joining the other three Apples.

~~End Flashback~~

“It was a long time ago hun...and it was just as much my fault as it was yours.”

“But still...I swore after that night that I'd never fly off the handle like that again and yet I did it again...” Rainbow sighed and looked down at the floor.

Applejack lightly patted Rainbow's back and said, “C'mere...” Rainbow was lead back over to the bed and pushed down softly so that she was laying down. A thought quickly rushed through Rainbow's head, making her blush.

“What're you-”

“Making you comfortable in the way I think is best right now.” Applejack had maneuvered herself down in front of Rainbow and pulled the blue pegasus into a hug. Dash was hesitant at first, but soon enough had wrapped her hooves around Applejack's mid-section while the farm pony had her hooves resting around Rainbow's neck comfortably.

“When was the last time we laid like this AJ?”

“Sad to say that ah don't rightly remember Dashie...” The pair became silent, simply enjoying each other's presence. Rainbow looked into Applejack's emerald eyes and Applejack into Rainbow's cerise eyes and they each saw into the depths of the other's soul.

“Applejack...” Rainbow slowly leaned forward, her eyes closing as she went and Applejack did the same until their lips met softly in the cool tranquility of the rainy atmosphere. Neither pony put much pressure into the kiss, both content to simply feel the other's lips upon their own.

Finally, AJ pulled away and said quietly, “Rainbow...I never stopped loving you despite what I said back then...and every day since then I've hated mahself for what I did to you...can ya ever forgive me?” Rainbow was silent and AJ wondered if what she had done had been a terrible idea. 'She's so vulnerable right now and ah just took advantage of her! Ah'm a terrible pony and should've just-'

“I forgave you the next time I saw you AJ...but my pride wouldn't let me say it...Can you forgive me?” Applejack couldn't help the small laugh that rose to her throat as a tear slid from her eye.

“Of course I can sweetheart...” the two leaned forward again and tenderly kissed as a silent bolt of lightning lit up the sky, blinding the world in white and framing the kiss for a fraction of a second within their minds.

“I missed you so much AJ...”

“Ah missed you too Dashie...ah missed you too.”

~~Meanwhile, in Canterlot~~

“It's odd for Canterlot to get rain at the same time as Ponyville.” Twilight mused while in the comfort of her lover's hooves.

“True, but as I'm sure you can vouch for personally, there have been stranger things.” Twilight smiled, past escapades with her friends rushing through her mind. Octavia chuckled, sending light vibrations into Twilight's back to pan out slowly across her body.

“Perhaps, but it makes for a lovely atmosphere.” Twilight said with a smile and snuggled against her musician.

“Plus it just means you get to stay here longer.” It was Twilight's turn to laugh.

“Well I'm not complaining, that's for sure.” Octavia kissed the back of Twilight's head and was silent. The two smiled as the rain slid down the large window of Octavia's living room, watching the shadows dance their way down the wall and across the floor before disappearing and being replaced. However, as the time passed them by, Twilight began to move a little this way or twitch a little that way. Eventually it go to the point where she had actually spun around completely in Octavia's grasp, now facing the grey mare.

“Is something wrong Twilight?”

“I need to pee but I don't wanna get up...” The unicorn said lazily, shifting once again in Octavia's grasp. The musician laughed aloud at her lover's admission, making Twilight blush. “Don't laugh...this is a serious matter.”

“One that's solved easily enough.” Octavia replied.

“Oh? How do you-ahh!” Twilight began to ask before falling onto the carpeted floor.

“By pushing you off the couch of course.” Twilight smiled before standing where she quickly adopted a look of mock pain.

“Oh Octavia, you wound me so. You're always being so mean to me...” She pouted, shifting from hoof to hoof as the urge to use the little filly's room stayed present.

“Only because I love you. Besides, I needed to get up anyways. I'm feeling a little thirsty. You want anything love?”

“Just coffee.” The lavender mare answered as she walked into the bathroom. Octavia rolled her eyes with a smile on her lips and headed into the kitchen where she started to reheat that morning's coffee and pour herself a glass of pomegranate juice. The mare took a slow sip of the drink, savoring the sweetness that rushed down her throat and the tartness that bit at her mouth. However, she also noticed an odd bitter taste that didn't belong.

Half the cup was gone before Twilight wandered into the kitchen, a look of relief on her face. “Do we have any creamer?” Twilight asked as she took the coffee off the warmer and poured herself a mug.

“I'm not sure. I didn't see any in the fridge but I might've missed it.” Twilight nodded and opened up the fridge.

“Umm...honey? You uh...you didn't get anything out of this pitcher did you?”

“Hmm? Oh, yea. I got some pomegranate juice from it but I think it's going bad or something. It tastes a little bitter.” Twilight spun and Octavia saw that the unicorn's eyes were wide.

“Oh my...oh my oh my oh my...”

“Twilight...what have you been up to and why is it in my fridge?” The cellist looked directly into Twilight's, a slight tinge of fear within her mind. She knew of Twilight's knack for experimenting and had accepted it in stride but now that she had potentially ingested a project of Twilight's... “What...did I...just drink?” Octavia had stood up by now and was right in Twilight's face, heat rising to her face.

“Well...I uh...you see...” The cellist exhaled loudly and inhaled deeply, her face getting even hotter. Twilight coughed into her hoof and began to speak but the words were lost on Octavia as her thoughts roared loudly in her mind.

'Dear Celestia her voice is so beautiful...Everything about her is beautiful...her mane, her eyes, her lips, her flank, her...' Tavi could stand it no longer and pressed forward, crushing her lips against Twilight's. The lavender mare attempted to gasp, but it only allowed easier access to her mouth and the grey mare took full advantage of this fact. Twilight tried to resist and explain what exactly it was the Octavia had drank, but the cellist was having none of it and kept pressing their lips together in a hungry passion that made Twilight's resolve melt.

“T-Tavi...” Twilight breathed heavily when Octavia had allowed her a moment to do so.

“Twilight...I want you so bad right now.” The unicorn was surprised at the sultry tone that came from her marefriend's lips and it wasn't helping in her mission to restrain herself.

“Uh...I um...listen Tavi, you aren't in your right state of mind. What you drank was supposed to be a confidence booster for Fluttershy to help her confess to Scootaloo, but I think it turned into an aphrodisiac...a rather powerful one at that.” Twilight shuddered as Octavia planted kisses along the lavender mare's jaw and neck. “Oohhh...Octy...” Octavia chuckled and bit Twilight's neck tenderly, causing the magical pony to groan aloud. The sound was music to Octavia's lust clouded mind.

The cellist began to walk them to the bedroom, but her libido refused to let her take another step without being satisfied when the reached the dark ambiance of the living room. 'Good enough...' Tavi told herself. She resumed her attack on Twilight's lips, using her free hoof to wander across Twilight's body, touching and rubbing the spots that she knew would send Twilight into the blissful state that she was in.

Nips, bites, and licks across her lips, neck, collerbone, and ears while her hoof traced a snake-like pattern up and down Twilight's spine. Twilight bit her lower lip at her body being assaulted in such an intimate way. Octavia grinned as she felt the magic surrounding their vulnerable pink flesh began to fade.

The grey pony leaned up from Twilight's lips and planted a soft kiss on Twilight's horn, causing the magical mare to shiver in delight and slightly curl her body in response. Octavia chuckled and with agonizingly slow speed began to lick her way up and down the conduit of magical energy. She could feel the rising warmth on her tongue as she continued the ministrations with her tongue as pleasure flooded Twilight's mind.

Twilight managed to keep (most) moans in her throat, only allowing one or two to slip out in order to keep some semblance of control. However, when Twilight felt warm breath envelope her horn, she lost it. “Oh OctaviAHH!” The cellist smiled, wrapping her tongue around the solid appendage and began to suckle upon it, bobbing her head up and down while occasionally releasing it from the grips of her mouth to blow cool air upon it.

Twilight was defenseless as he horn was tormented with pleasure. The bookworm had heard other unicorns talk about these “hornjobs” but had never actually felt one until now...and it was amazing. Words were lost as thoughts were scattered by the overwhelming sense of pleasure that coursed through Twilight's body at that moment. It wasn't long before Twilight could feel the familiar feeling of rapture building within her body.

Closer...closer...closer...just before Twilight could experience a release, Octavia pulled away, a strand of saliva hanging from her tongue and connecting to the very tip of Twilight's horn. “If I didn't have much self-control, I would've let you finish as I am a little curious to see what would happen if you came to orgasm...but that's for another time. Now...”Octavia lowered herself and with a lusty grin, grabbed Twilight's hoof and rubbed it upon her own body to demonstrate that it was Twilight's turn to repay the favour.

The unicorn simply nodded, her thoughts still muddled with pleasure. Twilight tackled Octavia to the ground, assaulting her marefriend's lips with slightly drunken kisses. The grey pony chuckled against Twilight's lips and moaned when Twilight bit her lower lip. The lavender unicorn's actions were a bit more rushed than Octavia's, her mind filled with lust, pleasure, and the need for more.

Octavia wasn't prepared for the hurried Twilight's touch and her nerves were set ablaze as passionate love bites were left along her body. A moan left Tavi's throat as she spoke. “Ooh...Twilight...”The lavender unicorn said nothing, instead working tongue around Octavia's inner thighs. She didn't stay very long because almost immediately after Twi's tongue felt moist flesh, she attacked, causing Octavia to gasp loudly and wrap her hind legs around Twilight's neck.

The cellist was always surprised at how well Twilight performed despite the fact that she almost never went out and was a major shut-in who hardly left her home (Equestria destroying catastrophes aside). Twilight smiled as she took a small pink pearl in her mouth and heard Octavia moan her name loudly. She suckled on it, very carefully taking it between her teeth. The grey musician's eyes flew open and she unwrapped her hooves and leaned forward, retaking Twilight's horn into her mouth.

The sudden moist sensation around her horn made Twilight scream against Tavi's slit in bliss while Octavia groaned against Twilight's horn as the vibrations from Twi's screams amplified her pleasure. It wasn't long before either of them were close to finishing. As the pleasure began to override their vision in a rapturous white, they both scream each other's names.

As they rode the waves of their pleasure back into a normal state, they held each other, both of them slowly making their way onto the couch once again to watch the rain pour down the window. When their breathing normalized and their hearts slowed to a more synchronized beat, the smiled and looked into each others eyes. “I love you Octavia.”

“I love you too Twilight.” Then the pair shared a tender kiss and went back to watching the rain fall, both happily basking in the afterglow of such an intimate exchange.

Troubled Week, Casual Friday

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~~Back in Ponyville, The Next Day~~

Scootaloo mumbled as light from the sun crept onto her face. “Five more minutes...” The orange pony mumbled, trying her best to escape the tyranny of the light.

“Scootaloo...you need to get up.” Scoots smiled when she felt the familiar feeling of lips upon her forehead and opened her eyes to see Fluttershy smiling down at her.

“What time is it?” The sleepy pegasus asked, rubbing her eyes and stretching her wings.

“It's seven o' clock. Come down when you're ready. I've got breakfast cooking.” With that, the yellow pegasus kissed Scootaloo once again and headed downstairs.

“I'm so lucky...” Scoots said as she slowly crawled out of bed with a grin on her lips. She quickly remade Fluttershy's bed and headed downstairs, licking her lips as the aroma of breakfast gently wafted into her nose. “Lemme guess....waffles with...raspberry syrup?” Scootaloo asked as she walked into the kitchen.

“Close. Raspberry waffles with strawberry syrup.” Fluttershy replied with a chuckle. Scootaloo rolled her eyes playfully and took her seat and awaited her food. The couple made small talk as they waited and ate, laughing and having a good time.

When Scootaloo finished her second plate, she washed it and said, “Alright then. I'll stop by after I get off work alright?”

“Sounds good honey.” Scoots smiled and only blushed a little at the term of endearment as she walked into the living room to relieve the couch of her saddlebag. “Have a good day Scootaloo.” Fluttershy leaned down and planted her lips upon Scootaloo's. Every time they kissed, Scootaloo absolutely melted into Fluttershy's soft lips and it always left her wanting more.

“I will. Love ya.” The orange pony said as she opened the door.

“Love you too.” Scoots stepped out of the cottage and headed for school. When she arrived, she took her seat and went through the day as usual: listen to the lecture, go over homework, listen to Mr. Oak gripe about her staring out the window, hang out with her friends, then leave. Ever since she had gotten with Fluttershy, Scoots had just wanted to be with her all the time, no matter what. However, she still knew that while it'd be nice to be with Fluttershy all day every day, she still had responsibilities.

“Now remember, this paper is due first thing on Monday. Now have fun and enjoy your weekend.” The older stallion said, dismissing the ponies from class. Scootaloo smiled and grabbed her saddlebag from the floor and walked out with her friends.

“So what're ya'll doin' today?” Apple Bloom asked, her mouth full as she tried to stuff something into her saddlebag.

“I've gotta help Rarity with some dresses today...” Sweetie said, dread lacing her voice.

“And I've got work.”

Apple Bloom sighed and said, “Well shoot. I was gonna see if we could all hang out and have y'all help get me outta doin' chores.” The three mares laughed and Sweetie and Scoots jokingly berated Apple Bloom for wanting to get out of doing work. When they came to their usual intersection, they all split and took the paths that lead to their destinations. However, Scootaloo quickly became annoyed as she walked the path to the flower shop.

It seemed like every other pony would stop her and ask how she was or if she was hurt. While it annoyed her to have to answer the same questions over and over, it also confused the young pegasus. It wasn't until she actually got to the flower shop that it made sense. “Scoots!” The addressed pony looked open and was surprised to see Roseluck in mid-air, diving for her.

“Roseluck!?” Scootaloo jumped out of the way, allowing Rose to land where she had been seconds before.

“Why didn't you tell us what that jerk Rainbow did to you?” Quicker than Scootaloo could move, Roseluck had pulled her into a rib-crushing hug, rocking her back and forth and shouting this and that.

“R-Roseluck...I need...air...” A blue aura enveloped them both and pulled them apart.

“Sorry about her. She's been a little...hysterical since she found out what had really happened.” Scoots looked past Rose and saw Colgate walking towards them. The blue unicorn pulled Scootaloo into a soft embrace and asked, “How are you?”

“I'm doing pretty good all things considered.”

Colgate finally released Roseluck from her magical grasp and the cream coloured pony quickly said, “Oh Scoots, why didn't you tell us that she was so awful to you? I mean, when I found out, I flipped out on her! I would've really showed her a piece of my mind but Colgate here wouldn't let me...” Roseluck grumbled.

“Honey, go sit in your office for a moment. I want to talk with Scootaloo alone.” Colgate said softly. Roseluck was about to object, but Colgate cut her off. “I'll tell you later.” With a defeated sigh, the florist nodded and headed for her office, shutting the door behind her.

“Why's she acting so upset? I mean, I understand that we're friends and she's concerned but this is a little ridiculous. I've put the whole thing past me anyways and-”

“It's because Rosey sees you kind of like a daughter, you know? She just wants to keep you safe, and she cares for you quite a bit. She has watched you grow since you were still just a filly. When she found out, she was absolutely devastated. The flower shop was actually closed for a day and a half because she was so upset at the thought of you dying.” Scootaloo was silent as she processed what she was being told. “She was also a little upset that you didn't tell her straight away, but thankfully, I was able to calm her down. I figured you had your own reasons for keeping quiet, right?”

Scootaloo nodded, hesitating a moment before speaking. “Is that why everypony has been stopping me and asking if I'm alright?” Colgate nodded.

“I'm afraid the news of what happened to you has spread all over town.”

Scootaloo groaned and asked, “How? The only ponies who knew about it were me, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash...”

“I'm not sure how it started, but we heard it from Pokey Pierce. Other than that...”

Scoots sighed and said, “I'll go talk with Fluttershy about it.”

The pair stood in silence for a moment before Colgate asked, “Are you really okay with everything? This whole thing can't have been easy for you...”

The orange pegasus looked down at the ground and said, “I'd be lying if I said everything was okay....but I know that with Fluttershy by my side, everything is better than what it could be.” Colgate smiled and pulled the younger pony into a light hug.

“I'm glad to hear it, and I'm glad you two are together. I hope you bring happiness to each other for as long as you can.” Scoots smiled and thanked the dentist. “Now, I'm sure Roseluck wants to play a game of twenty questions with you. C'mon.” Scoots rolled her eyes with a smile and followed Colgate into Roseluck's office.

~~~~

When Fluttershy made it to Golden Oaks Library, she was more than a little upset. 'I should've known Rarity would say something....' The yellow mare sighed inside and knocked on the door.

“Hey Fluttershy. What's up?” Spike asked as he opened the door.

“Nothing much. I was wondering if Twilight was here?”

“Sorry, but she's in Canterlot right now visiting her friend Octavia.” Fluttershy nodded, a smile on her lips forming as she quickly formed the connection.

“I see. Well, when you see her, can you tell her I'd like to talk to her?”

“Of course!” The young dragon said happily.

“Thanks Spike. See ya later.” He waved the pegasus off and went back inside, mumbling happily about a gem cake. While her mood had been elevated slightly, it didn't last long as the next few ponies she walked by came up to her, asking about Scootaloo. 'That's it. I need to go talk to Rarity.' Fluttershy said with a frown. She excused herself from the mares babbling at her and headed straight for Carousel Boutique. She knocked on the door louder than she normally would have and waited.

“Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where everything is- oh hello darling! Please come in!” Rarity said, not even noticing the scowl on Fluttershy's face.

“Rarity, we need to talk.”

“Of course darling. What do you-” Rarity stopped mid-sentence when she turned to look at the pegasus. “W-what's wrong dear?”

“You know exactly what's wrong Rarity. How could you do such a thing after I specifically told you NOT to tell anypony?” Rarity looked around, searching for someway to justify her actions (other than just being a gossiper).

“Well...I couldn't just let Rainbow get away with something like that, so this was my way of helping you and little Scootaloo get back at her.”

“We don't WANT to get back at her Rarity! We know that she regrets what she's done and had planned to just leave her be for now. Now the whole town probably hates her! Do you realize what you've done?” Rarity was silent, guilt eating away at her soul. “You've not just turned the town against Rainbow Dash...but you've also lost my trust...” Rarity gasped aloud, tears forming in the corners of her eyes.

“P-please Fluttershy...don't say that. I was only trying to-”

“I know...but you still betrayed my trust...” With that, Fluttershy turned and walked out, leaving Rarity to collapse on the floor sobbing. While Fluttershy felt horrible on the inside for doing that to Rarity, she knew she had to speak her mind. She could hear Rarity crying her eyes out behind the door and it took all of Fluttershy's willpower not to turn around and apologize. 'Apologies can wait until later...she needs to learn that she can't go around spreading things like this...I just wish the lesson didn't have to be taught like this...' Fluttershy sniffled, wiping away a single tear and moved on, her movements easily reflecting her mood.

~~~~

“Whoa there Sugarcube...what's got you down in the dumps?” Fluttershy looked up and saw Applejack looking at her with concern. Fluttershy saw behind the earth pony that Celestia's sun was setting.

“How long have I been walking...” Fluttershy asked, fatigue finally catching up to her, making her sit down on the ground.

“Ah don't rightly know, but you look plum tuckered out. What happened to ya?” Fluttershy quickly told the farmer what had happened between her and Rarity, making Applejack frown. “Darn it Rarity...” Applejack sighed while Fluttershy looked down at the ground silently. “Well...ah can tell ya that Rainbow's doin'...somewhat alright. She's out with me on the farm.”

Fluttershy nodded and after a moment's hesitation asked, “Are you...okay?” Applejack just nodded, her emerald eyes staring off into the opposite horizon, the sun behind her slowly disappearing.

“Ah think so. Ah've wanted to get back together with her but....ah dunno....just never knew how to say it.” The pegasus nodded, knowing that even the Element of Honesty got a little tied up inside when it came to speaking her honest, personal feelings. “However...it feels like ah'm takin' advantage of'er...” Fluttershy nodded again, but spoke this time.

“We both know you're not that kind of pony. You just want her to feel safe and secure in this... hostile environment. There's nothing wrong with that Applejack.”

The orange mare smiled and said, “Thanks Sugarcube. Now if ya don't mind, ah gotta be headin' back. Dash is waitin' on me.” Fluttershy gasped aloud.

“Waiting? Oh no! Scootaloo!” Fluttershy turned suddenly and took off, running back down the path as quickly as she could so she could get on the path that would take her home. When she arrived, she burst through the door, earning a slight scream of surprise. On the couch, Scootaloo was sitting slightly slouched, her face clearly showing that she had just woke up (that and the small sliver of drool hanging from her lip).

“Fluttershy?” Scoots asked groggily, wiping away the saliva before it could drip on her.

“I'm SO sorry Scootaloo....I went for a walk to clear my head and I guess I got kinda lost in my thoughts...”

“'Salright. I was able to get all my homework down...I think?” While the half awake mare sifted through the papers scattered out in front of her, Fluttershy closed the door behind her and walked over to Scootaloo and pulled her into a hug. “Much better than homework...” The orange pegasus mumbled against Fluttershy, hugging her back with a content smile.

“C'mon, I'll make it up to you by making you dinner.” At the mention of food, Scootaloo's stomach growled rather loudly, making them both laugh. As they waited for the pasta to boil, they spoke about their day, with Scootaloo complaining about the town's sudden care for her.

“I was hoping you could shed a little light on that.” Scoots said. Fluttershy nodded and after a few moments explained what had happened between her and Rarity after explaining their trip to the spa. “I see....so it was Rarity's fault?”

“Please don't be angry at her...I already yelled at her for it...” Scootaloo could practically feel the pain that radiated off of Fluttershy as she got lost in memory. Scoots reached a hoof over and placed it on top of Fluttershy's. The simple act was enough to bring Fluttershy back from her thoughts and smile. “Thank you Scootaloo.”

“No problem.” The two stared into each other's eyes for a moment before Fluttershy got up to check the pasta. “You know...I've been thinking...”

“Mhmm...” Fluttershy mumbled as she added various ingredients to the pasta.

“I think we should go find Rainbow...and talk to her about what happened. It felt pretty good for me to talk to you about it...maybe she'd like to talk to us about it?”

“Maybe...but not now. She's over at Sweet Apple Acres right now with Applejack trying to figure out for herself what she needs or wants. All I know is that only Applejack is going to be able to help her and if we come in too early...it might end badly.” The orange pegasus nodded in understanding.

“Alright then...but we will need to talk to her eventually.”

“I know hun...I know.” The two sat in an odd silence for a moment, the only sound being that of the food as it was being cooked. Thankfully, Scootaloo began to talk again, telling of her day at school. Fluttershy listened intently, but her mind was elsewhere. 'When WOULD the best time to visit Rainbow be? If it's too soon, it may not fix anything...but if we wait too long, she won't wanna talk about it...' As the yellow pegasus thought, she continued to stir the contents of the pot before her and managed to serve it without much incident. Eventually, Fluttershy pushed her thoughts away and focused on the love of her life.

“I think tomorrow I'll go back home...I feel like a burden, and plus...I don't want to have bought it for nothing.” Fluttershy chuckled, taking a small sip of the pasta's broth.

“It's fine. I'll just come visit you every day. Since hardly any animals visit anymore, I think I have a little free reign over what I do.” Scoots beamed and got up to wash her plate. However, as she walked past Fluttershy, the yellow mare shot her hoof out and pulled the younger pony close to her, grabbing the plate and setting next to her and saying, “Have I told you how much I love you Scootaloo?”

“Yea...but I could stand to hear it again.” The younger mare said, blowing a few strands of her hair out of her face.

“I love you more than Celestia's sun loves the earth it helps nourish. I love you more than fish love the water they live in. I love you more than an astronomer loves her telescope. I love you more than anything in the world Scootaloo. And don't you let anypony tell you otherwise.”

“Is this the part where I think up a bunch of romantic analogies to compare my love for you too or can I just skip to the part where I show you by giving you a kiss?” Scoots asked with a sly smile.

Fluttershy giggled and said, “You decide.” With that, Scootaloo leaned forward and pressed her lips to Fluttershy's. The yellow pegasus couldn't help but smile against the lips that were on hers, reminding her that she was actually with the pony she loved and that it wasn't just a dream. After a minute or so, Scootaloo pulled away, her blush dark and her smile wide.

“I love you Fluttershy.” The addressed pegasus wore a smile just as wide as her younger counterparts.

“I love you too Scootaloo.” Fluttershy let go of Scootaloo and returned to her own food whilst the orange pony washed her plate. It wasn't long before Fluttershy had finished her own food and began to wash her plate, plus what she had used to cook. Of course, Scootaloo insisted on helping and it wasn't long before a bubble fight occurred. Fluttershy reveled in the fact that she could share in a moment like this and enjoy every minute of it instead of looking around fearfully, hoping she hadn't offended somepony or making sure she wasn't being loud enough to bother anypony.

After dodging a soapy blob, Fluttershy smirked and gathered some of the bubbly substance on her hoof and tackled Scootaloo to the floor. “I hope you are prepared to feel my wrath.” Flutters said with a slightly menacing tone. It took all of Scootaloo's willpower not to laugh.

“Oh no! Please, not that!”

“Taste defeat and perish!” Then, Fluttershy slowly lowered her soapy hoof onto Scoots nose and said happily, “Boop!” Scootaloo was speechless, the action catching her completely off guard. She knew that whatever Fluttershy had planned to do would be silly or romantic, but still, this had caught her by surprise. Scoots was brought back to reality when she realized that Fluttershy was no longer on top of her but rather on the floor, laughing. “Y-you should've seen the look on your face!”

Scootaloo rushed over to the window to gaze at her reflection and was soon on the ground, laughing with her lover. Finally, the two cleaned up the bubbly mess and finished the dishes before heading upstairs to Fluttershy's room. The couple climbed into the bed together and gave each other a tender kiss before closing their eyes and falling asleep in one another's embrace.

~~~~

The next morning when Scootaloo woke up, she was surprised to see that she was up before Fluttershy. 'Huh...Am I still dreaming? No WAY am I up before Shy.' Carefully removing herself from Fluttershy's grip and crawling off the bed, Scoots quietly made her way downstairs. 'Hmm...I should do something nice for her before I leave...' Scootaloo looked up at the clock and saw she had at least an hour before she had to leave for school. After pacing back and forth for a moment, the proverbial light bulb clicked on in Scootaloo's mind and she headed into the kitchen.

~~~~

“Fluttershy...” The yellow pegasus mumbled a little, but did nothing else. “Fluttershy...” A light poke was felt on Fluttershy's side and she tried to swipe at it, but it persisted, no matter how many times she pushed it away. Finally, Fluttershy opened her eyes and smiled. Scootaloo was standing beside her with a plate of breakfast on a small fold-out table next to the bed. “Good morning.”

“Good morning sweetheart.” Fluttershy leaned forward and Scoots met her halfway, the two sharing a soft kiss.

“I made you breakfast.” Scootaloo said, gesturing towards the food beside her.

“And it looks wonderful. Thank you Scootaloo.” Flutters sat up and turned, allowing her hind legs to hang off the side of the bed while she ate.

“Listen, I gotta go. I'll see you later today, alright?” Fluttershy nodded, not wanting to talk with her mouth full. “Love ya.”

“Love you too.” The yellow pegasus mumbled through the small pieces of food in her mouth. Scootaloo snickered and gave Fluttershy a hug and a kiss on the cheek before heading out.

~~After School~~

“What do ya mean you gotta work today?” Apple Bloom asked while Sweetie Belle stared with large, unhappy eyes.

“I mean I gotta work today. I missed two whole weeks while I was training so I gotta make up for it. Sorry girls, but I can't make it tonight.” The earth pony and unicorn lightly kicked the dirt by their hooves as they thought of not having the third Crusader at the slumber party. “I'll make it up to you both. On Sunday, we'll go to Canterlot and have ice cream. My treat.” The prospect of ice cream was enough to cheer up Scootaloo's friends.

“Sounds good to me.”

“Me too!” The young Apple said happily.

“Anyways, I'll see you girls later.” Scoots said, bidding the other two Crusaders farewell and heading for the flower shop. She made only one stop and that was at her house to leave a small note for Fluttershy. When she got to the flower shop, she was quickly put to work by Daisy. “Where's Roseluck?” The pegasus asked as she followed the older pony into the back.

“She's got family business up in Trottingham so she'll be gone for a few days or so.”

“And she left you in charge?” Scoots asked, a smile on her lips.

“Hey now, I'm a great store manager!” Daisy said, a pout on her lips. Scootaloo just chuckled and said,

“Uh huh. SURE you are. Just like how you managed the store that one day all by yourself.”

“Hey! There were a lot of ponies that day...” The two ponies laughed for a moment, going about their work. “But in all seriousness, she actually left her marefriend in charge. Have you met her?”

“Who Colgate? Yea. She's really nice and a pretty good cook.”

“Just pretty good? Your words sting Scootaloo.” Both pegasus and earth pony looked over and saw the blue unicorn standing there, her smile sparkling in the sun.

“G-good afternoon Ms. Palmolive!” Colgate's smile fell and she genuinely looked upset. “

Miss? But I'm barely older than you are!” Daisy's jaw dropped and she quickly tripped over herself trying to word an apology. However, the pink pony went silent when Colgate began to snicker.

“Wow... Rosey was right...you really are easy to mess with.” Scootaloo burst into laughter with Colgate following quickly after.

Daisy frowned and with a turn said, “Harrumph!” and walked deeper into the greenhouse.

“How ya doin' Scoots?”

“Pretty good. How about you?”

Colgate shrugged and said, “Not bad. Wish I could be there for my Rosey, but since she asked me to stay and look after the place, I'm here.”

“What's going on with her family? If you don't mind my asking that is.”

“Oh her brother Floral Print finally told their parents that he was with another stallion and they aren't taking it well. They threw the same kind of fit when she told them we were together.”

“Oh.” Was all Scoots could say.

“Don't worry though, while they may only tolerate me, they still love Roseluck. I just hope the same goes for her brother. He's such a nice guy.” Scoots nodded and proceeded to show Colgate around the greenhouse (even though Colgate had seen the greenhouse during a more...intimate encounter with her lover). After the “tour”, Scootaloo got to work while Colgate went to go tease Daisy some more.

~~~~

When Fluttershy had finished her chores around home, she headed for Ponyville. She knew it would be awhile before she could see Scootaloo (considering that it was only ten o'clock) but figured she might as well walk around and get some exercise and check on some of the little critters around town. However, by the time eleven rolled around, Fluttershy sat on a bench and her only thought was, 'I'm bored...'

The yellow pegasus had never really known the meaning of what bored was until fewer and fewer animals came to her cottage and like everypony else...loathed it immensely. The pegasus sighed and looked up into the sky, wondering what she could do to help pass the time. It wasn't until she saw a small cloud floating in the distance, seemingly right beside Canterlot that made her gasp. “I could go to Cloudsdale!”

With a quick flap of her wings, Fluttershy was off the ground and headed for the city in the sky.

Author's Notes:

So....Team Fortress is really....REALLY addictive x_x

Anyways, TF2 not withstanding, sorry it's taken so long for this chapter to get put up. I shouldn't have put it before you ladies and you gentlemens.

Oh, and just in case it pops in the comments later....No. No, Colgate isn't cheating on Rosey whilst she's away. I like Roseluck too much to have her go through that ;~;

Anyways...I think that's-oh! Title! You may all think it's a little confusing, so lemme help. It's currently Friday by the end of this chapter and that's my way of keeping track. You have no idea how many times I've had to scroll back through and figure out the current day in-story. XD Besides, it was a pretty casual Friday, no?

Editor's Note: Well, I don't really have all that much to say... So I suppose I'll do the cool thing and say that I have been enlightening Night in the way of the PC gaming Master Race... please direct any and all animosity for the lateness of the chapter toward your spiffy editor!

Going Home and the Surprise They Found There

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When the yellow pegasus arrived in the flying city, she quickly looked for a clock. “Wow...it's only 11:18? I always thought it took longer to get here...” Fluttershy said quietly to herself. She took a moment to catch her breath before heading for her first stop: the Cloudosseum. Fluttershy was thankful that there wasn't a show going on. That would've made it much harder for her to both get in and to see the pony she was looking for. As she walked into the imposing building, she couldn't help the shudder that crawled up and down her spine.

While it hadn't been that long since she had been here, it had been awhile since she had been here while it was completely empty. Walking through the large corridors with nothing but shadows and the noise from outside to keep her company, it was almost enough to make Fluttershy turn back and just wait. Thankfully though, she stepped around the nearby corner and had a clear shot to the centre of the stadium where she could hear the sounds of a mare barking orders.

Fluttershy smiled and picked up her pace, the sound of shouting getting louder and louder. Finally, Fluttershy exited the building and was bathed in Celestia's sun. Above her, ponies flew around wearing bright blue uniforms with yellow stripes and shining goggles. Fluttershy watched contentedly as the Wonderbolts flew their practice drills with one mare hovering slightly above the rest and giving orders. “Flap faster, Lightning Streak! Adjust your downward angle, Fleetfoot! And for the last time, Soarin', keep your head up!”

Fluttershy took to the skies and made her way up to the pony giving orders. When she was right behind her, Fluttershy reached out and wrapped her hooves around the Wonderbolt captain's waist and pulled her into a hug, completely catching the mare off guard. “What the? Hey knock it off, or I'll-” The mare managed to escape Fluttershy's grasp and spun around, obviously ready to chew out one of her teammates. However, a grin quickly formed on her lips. “Take five, Wonderbolts. I've got some catchin' up to do.”

Fluttershy heard a light snicker and the Captain quickly spun and asked, “What was that, Soarin'? You wanna keep drilling while the rest of us take a break?” The blue stallion quickly stumbled over an apology while the rest of the team laughed and playfully taunted him.

“I see you're still ruling the Wonderbolts with an iron hoof, Spitfire.” The orange mare laughed, removing the flight goggles from her eyes and hugging Fluttershy.

“Well somepony's gotta. How've ya been 'Shy? I haven't seen ya in awhile.”

“I've been pretty good, actually. How've you been?” The Wonderbolt shrugged, slowly descending to the cloud floor.

“Eh, I could be better, honestly, but I digress.” The pair landed and headed over to the nearest bench. “So what brings you to Cloudsdale? Surely not just to visit little ol' me, correct?”

Fluttershy giggled and said, “I'm just trying to pass the time while I wait for my lover to-”

“You mean-”

“Yes!” Spitfire's grin stretched from ear to ear and Fluttershy's was no better. The captain pulled Fluttershy into a tight hug.

“Congrats, Flutters! I knew you'd get her eventually!” Spitfire exclaimed happily as the yellow pegasus hugged back just as tightly.

“Thanks.” When the two released each other from the hug, they spent the time catching up with each other, swapping stories and laughs. Eventually however, Spitfire had to excuse herself.

“We've got a show coming up this Sunday and we need to be prepared. Say...would you like two tickets to the show? Ya know, for you and your lady friend?” Fluttershy hesitated in speaking.

“Well...I dunno...I don't want to impose like that...”

“Nonsense! In fact, now I insist that you come.” Fluttershy was about to say something, but Spitfire began to pout, her eyes large and her lower lip sticking out. While Fluttershy knew the Wonderbolt was kidding, she still couldn't help but give in to the puppy-like stare.

“Oh...alright. What time is it?” Fluttershy asked, giving in to the puppy-like stare of her friend.

“It's actually an evening show, so it won't start until five or so.” Fluttershy nodded and hugged Spitfire once more.

“Thanks, Spitfire.”

“No problem, 'Shy. The tickets should arrive tomorrow or the day after in the mail, so keep an eye out for 'em, alright?”

“Roger.” Fluttershy gave a mock salute, making Spitfire laugh.

“See ya then, Fluttershy.” With that, Spitfire rose back into the air and shouted, “Alright mares, up and at'em! Break time is over!” Some of the Wonderbolts groaned while others hopped up eagerly, waiting for their next order.

“Now time to go visit daddy.” Fluttershy said with a smile, humming a light tune to herself as she practically skipped through the city on the way to her father's home. When she arrived, Fluttershy called out to him, her eyes fixed on the open window of his bedroom. “Daddy? You home? Or awake for that matter?” It took a few minutes, but finally the sleepy head of Warm Breeze poked out of the open window, a yawn escaping his lips and his hoof rubbing his eyes.

“Hello sweetheart. Go ahead and head inside, I'll be down in a moment.” Fluttershy snickered at her sleepy father and headed inside to wait for him. His apartment hadn't changed much since Fluttershy had visited him last. The structure was much more simple than most pegasus designed buildings, and was also decorated much differently. While most pegasi had pictures or some kind of depiction of the pegasi of old, Warm Breeze had paintings of his own design hanging on the walls. They showed various things ranging from music to simple landscapes.

However, his best painting (at least to Fluttershy it was. He was too modest to admit to it) was the small painting of Fluttershy as a filly and his late wife. While the painting wasn't exactly amazing in terms of style, it WAS amazing because he had done it completely from memory. Fluttershy and her mother had been in Trottingham, visiting relatives and he had painted it while they were gone, showing them both in the pale light of the full moon. Every time Fluttershy visited, she couldn't help but stare at the painting.

“You know hun, if you really want that painting, you know you can take it.” The yellow mare turned and saw her father brushing his flowing cyan mane.

“I know...but I wouldn't feel right if I took it from you.”

The stallion shrugged and said, “Fair enough. So what brings you to Cloudsdale, Sweetheart?” He asked, his question muffled by the brush.

“I'm just passing the time while I wait for Scootaloo to get out of school.” He nodded, setting the brush down and hugging his daughter.

“Ahh. I take it you've already seen Spitfire?”

“Of course!” The stallion smiled and ushered the mare outside, where he followed and started walking.

“I imagine she was pleasantly surprised to see you?” He asked. Fluttershy nodded and quickly matched pace with the older pony.

“Mhmm. We talked for awhile before she had to get back to practicing.”

“She give you tickets to her show later this week?” Fluttershy couldn't have hid the surprise on her face, even if she had wanted to.

“Y-yea. How'd you know?”

“Lightning Streak gave me a ticket as well to go to the same show.” Fluttershy smiled. Her father had been dating the Wonderbolt stallion for at least two years now and it warmed Fluttershy's heart that he had been able to find somepony to love again after Graceful Flight had passed away.

“So...will I see you there then, Daddy?”

“Oh...probably not. I'll be...helping Lightning Streak prepare.” It wasn't until he had winked that Fluttershy truly understood his intent, and it made a dark blush rise to her face.

“D-daddy!”Warm Breeze laughed aloud, causing the few ponies nearby to stop and stare at the sudden outburst of laughter. His laughing did nothing to help Fluttershy bring her blush into control.

When his laugh had died down into light chuckles, Warm Breeze ruffled his daughter's mane and said, “I love ya, Honey.”

“Heh, love you too, Daddy.” The pair walked throughout the floating city with his wing draped over his daughter's back, the large appendage easy covering her whole body save everything from the neck up. The pair laughed whenever a curious mare or shy stallion would approach Warm Breeze and asked about his large wings.

The stallion simply shrugged and with a smile said, “Dunno. Just a family trait I suppose.” Eventually, the two found themselves at a small cafe near one of the edges of Cloudsdale, allowing them to look out over Equestria the way only pegasi could. “So sweetheart...I want your opinion on something...”

“Of course. What is it?” Fluttershy snickered as her father actually became a little flustered and stumble over his words. “Wow, not even in my wildest dreams did I think I'd see the day where my father would actually become speechless.” Fluttershy's little jab seemed to help Warm Breeze relax because he chuckled and took a deep breath.

“Well...I sort of...lied about you seeing me at the show. You see...I wanted to give Lightning Streak this.” The stallion extended his left wing and spun to grab something out from between his feathers. When he turned back around, Fluttershy gasped. In Warm Breeze's teeth was a Wedding Feather. A Wedding Feather was a shed primary of a stallion that's dipped in a special liquid metal that allowed it to be attached to the betrothed without interfering the pegasi's flight, as well as making it close to unbreakable. Warm Breeze's was a bright silver, one that would definitely stand out against Lightning Streak's blue feathers.

“Wow...it's beautiful...” Fluttershy said, taking the silver feather to admire it up close.

“You think he'll like it?” The yellow mare looked up and was surprised to see doubt laced into his face, a look that was foreign upon his normally aloof and tranquil face.

'I guess nopony is safe from the thralls of doubt...' Fluttershy got out of her seat and walked over to her father, pulling him into a hug and planting a soft kiss on his forehead. “He's going to love it. You know why?” The yellow stallion looked her daughter in the eyes and she finished. “Because it was given to him by somepony who loves him.” Warm Breeze smiled warmly and hugged his daughter back, wrapping both his hooves and wings around her.

“You're right...thanks sweetheart.”

“You're welcome daddy.” He took the silver wing back and tucked it back within the confines of his wing after Fluttershy stepped away. “So when are you gonna give it to him?”

“I'm hoping to surprise him right after the show, when they're all taking their bows.” Fluttershy smiled and quickly voiced her approval of her father's plan. As the two continued to make small talk, Fluttershy glanced over at the wall and saw that it was nearly four-twenty.

“Oh! I gotta go! I love ya daddy, and I'll see ya on Sunday!” The mare quickly hugged her father, kissed her forehead, and leapt off the side of the cloud. Fluttershy, while not the action seeker Dash was, still couldn't help but smile as she plummeted in a controlled descent. As she neared the ground, the timid mare leveled out and managed to land without incident.

“Whoa...Fluttershy, I've never seen you fly like that!” Fluttershy jumped at the sudden voice called out to her. The yellow pegasus spun and saw Scootaloo standing in front of the flower shop.

“S-Scootaloo? What're you doing here?”

“Um...working?” The younger mare said. “But that's not important, what IS important is how you flew!” Fluttershy felt a light heat rush to her cheeks at the praise. “You've GOT to teach me!”

“Oh...I...uh....”Thankfully, Colgate came along to save Fluttershy.

“Hey Scoots? I don't mean to be rude but...oh, hello Fluttershy!”

“Hello Colgate.” Scootaloo turned and saw the unicorn standing behind her.

“My break time over?”

“I'm afraid so. Sorry.” Scoots waved the apology away and rushed up to Fluttershy to steal a quick kiss, making them both blush darkly before turning back and heading inside. Fluttershy looked up and saw a wide grin on Colgate's face. “Would you like to come in?” The pegasus just nodded, not trusting her voice. The mares headed into the building and went left into Roseluck's office instead of right after Scootaloo.

“Where's Roseluck?” Colgate explained the situation to Fluttershy, all the while serving the yellow mare tea.

“I see. Poor dear...I hope it all goes well for them.” The unicorn nodded, taking a light sip of her own tea, sighing happily as the warmth rushed down her throat, leaving her insides warm. “What kind of tea is this? Can't say I've had it before...” Fluttershy said after taking a few sips, her brow slightly furrowed as she tried to guess the flavour.

“I'm not sure. It's Rosey's special Rose Tea. You'll have to ask her when she returns.” The older of the two nodded, taking another sip and reveling in the taste. The pair sat in the office, talking about anything that happened to come up. Eventually, the two came across the topic of intimacy. “So uh...if you don't mind me asking....have you...have you done anything with Scootaloo?” Fluttershy staved off the unconsciousness that threatened to make her faint. After a few minutes, the yellow mare forced herself to stop hiding behind her mane and shake her head quickly.

“N-no...I don't want to rush things...”

Colgate nodded and said, “I remember the first time me and Rosey did anything...she was so nervous she could hardly stop shaking. It was absolutely adorable. Eventually though, I managed to calm her down and she just...went for it when I least expected it.” Fluttershy nodded, a small smile on her face as she tried to imagine the florist being nervous. “Hard to imagine, right?”

Flutters nodded and said, “I don't think I've ever seen her nervous.”

“Nopony has. She does a lot to keep her composure to make it seem like nothing's wrong in her life.”

“You make it sound like she's carrying a large burden...or too many.”

Colgate laughed and said, “Nah, but she does have her moments.” Fluttershy sighed in relief, glad her friend wasn't in any amount of inner turmoil. She had remembered when Twilight had been crushed under so many duties, projects, and just overall emotional strain. I hadn't been pretty. It was around this time Scoots came in, looking exhausted. Immediately, Fluttershy opened her hooves and allowed the younger pegasus to collapse into them, pulling her close.

“Are you finished?” Scoots just nodded, nothing leaving her mouth beside a tired groan.

“You finish ALL your work Scoots?”

“Mhmm...Can I go home now?” Both Colgate and Fluttershy laughed and the blue unicorn sent them both on their way, waving as they left. As the couple walked to Scootaloo's home, Fluttershy listened with an amused look on her face as the orange mare complained about her work.

“But you enjoy it all, don't you?” Fluttershy asked when Scootaloo stopped talking for a moment.

“Heh...yea. Wouldn't trade that job for anything in Equestria.” The older mare chuckled and waited for Scoots to unlock her home. However, when they walked inside, they were both met with a surprise. “M-my house!”The inside of Scootaloo's home was absolutely trashed, her posters had been torn down, her couch cushions tossed all over the place and ripped up, her table had been over-turned, all her pictures had been knocked over and glass littered the floor. No other room in the house fared any better, her bedroom seeming to take the worst of it. “I don't...but why would....I don't....”

Scootaloo mumbled to herself as she tried to figure out why anypony would do such a horrible thing. Fluttershy pulled her young lover into a tight embrace and Scootaloo found herself crying into Fluttershy's coat despite herself. “Shh....it's gonna be okay...” Fluttershy whispered softly, brushing Scootaloo's mane slowly.

~~~~

The guards had finally left after spending the past four hours looking for any kind of indication as to who might have broke into Scootaloo's home. While they didn't find any clues, they DID discover that nothing had been taken. “I don't understand...why break in and not steal anything? It doesn't make any sense...” Scootaloo mumbled as she pushed the couch upright.

“I wish I knew hun.” Fluttershy replied as she swept the glass shards into a dustpan.

“They could've at least been polite and not made such a mess...such rudeness these days.” Scootaloo said, her tone light and joking.

“Heh, you've got a point.” Fluttershy said with a smile. However, in her mind she spoke something different. 'She's being so brave about all this...if it had been my home, I don't know if I'd be able to sleep...or even feel safe!' Finally, after hours of cleaning, the house was back about as clean as it had been before the break-in.

“So glad tomorrow is Saturday...I can sleep in until I have to go to work...” Scoots said, collapsing onto the couch, with Fluttershy sitting next to her. The young pegasus quickly corrected her position so that instead of being sprawled out on the couch, she was laying with her head resting on the older pegasus. The pair sat in comfortable silence as Fluttershy gently brushed Scootaloo's mane, humming a quiet tune.

“Hey Scootaloo?”

“Hmm?” The orange pony mumbled, not bothering to open her eyes.

“I was wondering...would you uh...l-like to go out on a d-date this Sunday?” Scootaloo opened her eyes and looked up at Fluttershy.

“Like...this Sunday this Sunday?”

“Mhmm...I mean, if you already have plans then-” Fluttershy looked down, sadness crawling onto her face.

“No! I mean...what did you have in mind?”

Fluttershy twirled her hooves together as she said, “Well...I was wondering if you'd like to come to Cloudsdale with me to see a show?”

“Ooh...what kind of show?” Scoots asked curiously.

“W-well...it's a Wonderbolts show and-” Scootaloo jumped up, nearly scaring Fluttershy.

“No way! You managed to get tickets to a Wonderbolts show?!”

“Y-yea...I didn't know you actually liked the Wonderbolts so much...I always thought that was Dash pushing it on you.” Scootaloo shook her head, her eyes bright.

“No way! That's one of the things that we have in common!” Fluttershy was overjoyed that she could make her lover so happy and it showed. “What time is the show?”

“Spitfire told me-” Fluttershy's voice was silenced as a hoof was placed on her lips. “

Wait wait wait....you....KNOW Spitfire? As in...THE Spitfire?!”

“Um...yes?” Before Fluttershy knew it, she was on her back on the floor, Scootaloo pinning her down with a huge grin on her face.

“I can't believe it! You never cease to surprise me Fluttershy!” Then, in the heat of the moment, Scootaloo leaned down and planted a fiery kiss on the yellow mare's lips. However, since she had gone down too fast and too suddenly, Scootaloo had caught Fluttershy with her mouth partially open as the yellow mare was giggling and when their lips had met, so had their tongues. They quickly parted their lips, crimson staining both of their faces. “Fluttershy, I'm so-”

“No...it's fine, Scoots...it felt...nice.” The timid mare managed to say, pleased that she hadn't lost her voice. Fluttershy lifted a hoof and caressed Scootaloo's cheek. The two shared an unvoiced message and slowly, they came together, pressing their lips together once again. After a moment, Fluttershy slowly parted her lips and lightly flicked her tongue against Scootaloo's. However, Scootaloo didn't immediately react. 'Oh no...did I go to fast? Oh...I knew I should've waited and-' Fluttershy's thoughts were interrupted as she felt a soft flick against her own tongue. 'Oh...my...'

While it was hesitant and cautious at first for both ponies, they quickly fell in love with the feeling and wanted nothing more than to continue. As the couple kissed, the line between love and lust started to blur and their kisses became hotter and more frequent, their tongues fighting for dominance and each of them loving the feeling. There was a small voice screaming at the back of Fluttershy's mind, telling her to slow down and stop, that neither of them were ready for taking it...THAT far. 'Shut up brain...besides, this is enjoyable for you too.'

Fluttershy told herself as she idly traced a line between Scootaloo's wings. The younger mare broke their lips apart, a line of saliva keeping them connected and let loose a deep moan that made Fluttershy's wings flare out behind her. It was then that Fluttershy snapped back to reality. “S-Scootaloo...we n-need to stop.” The orange pony looked down and the situation must've registered in her mind because she leapt off of Fluttershy, the amount of blood and heat in her face making it hard for her to focus.

“Oh my gosh....I'm so sorry, Fluttershy! I don't know what came over me and-”

“I-it's alright Scoots...just...the h-heat of the moment.”

“R-right...” The two shared a nervous laugh before Scootaloo said, “I'm uh...I'm gonna go take a shower...a cold shower...” Fluttershy nodded and watched Scootaloo (or at least her flanks) as she climbed the stairs to her bathroom. As soon as Fluttershy heard the door close, she released the breath she had been holding.

“I can't believe I did that!” While still nervous, Fluttershy couldn't help but feel a little...liberated at what she had done. As she thought of it, she was reminded of the painful stiffness that had made up her wings. “Heh...I should probably get rid of that...” Fluttershy took a few deep breaths and sat down and cleared her mind, utilizing a trick that Spitfire had taught her years ago. Before she knew it, Fluttershy was lightly being shaken by a slightly damp Scootaloo.

“Uh...Fluttershy? Hello, Princesses to Fluttershy?” The yellow pony opened her eyes and found herself staring into the eyes of her lover.

“I love you Scootaloo.” Fluttershy said, leaning forward and planting a soft kiss on the younger mare's lips.

Scoots smiled into the kiss and said, “Love ya too.” The couple crawled back onto the couch and Scootaloo asked, “So...when does the show start?”

“It won't start until at least five.” Scoots nodded.

“Alright, that's good. I promised the girls that we'd go to Canterlot for ice cream since I've been so busy...”

“That's alright. I'll come to Canterlot around three and pick you up. Is...is that okay?”Fluttershy asked quietly.

“Of course!” The pair hugged and cuddled on the couch. As ten rolled around, Fluttershy yawned and stretched, hopping off and fluffing her wings. “Oh...are you uh...g-going home?” Scootaloo asking, trying to hide the nervousness in her voice.

“Mhmm.”

“Oh....alright then...” Fluttershy could see how quickly Scootaloo had tensed up at the thought of Fluttershy leaving.

'She was only putting on a brave face for me...' Fluttershy stretched again and said, “Would you like me to stay with you tonight?” Scootaloo nodded, though she didn't mean to nod as quickly as she did.

“I mean...if you don't mind that is.” Scoots said, trying to look relaxed and aloof.

“Of course I don't mind hun.” Fluttershy smiled as Scootaloo sighed in relief. The orange mare hopped off the couch and stretched before yawning.

“I'm gonna go ahead and go to bed. You comin'?” The yellow pegasus nodded and the two headed upstairs and crawled into the bed and cuddled under the blanket. Just as Fluttershy was about to fall asleep, she felt a light nudge followed by a soft whisper. “Hey Fluttershy?”

“Huh?” The addressed pegasus mumbled groggily.

“I uh...I just wanted to say...thank you Fluttershy...you know, for staying with me.” Instead of answering with words, she snuggled Scootaloo closer to her chest, nuzzling the top of the younger pony's head. Scootaloo giggled lightly and closed her eyes, feeling safe in the hooves of the pony she loved.

An Unexpected Meeting

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When Scootaloo woke the next morning, she sighed happily. She had feared that when she woke up, Fluttershy would be gone, taken by whoever had broken into her home. Thankfully, the yellow mare had remained, her hooves lightly wrapped around Scootaloo's waist. “Finally awake huh?”

Scoots smiled and replied, “Rats. And here I thought I had woken up before you again.” The orange pony heard a giggle followed by a kiss atop her head.

“Sorry to disappoint, but I've been up for about an hour now.” Scootaloo laughed and turned in her lover's embrace so that she could be face to face with Fluttershy.

“Thanks for staying here...” Fluttershy smiled and tenderly kissed Scootaloo's muzzle.

“Anything for you sweetheart.” The couple laid in silence for a few moments before Scootaloo yawned and released herself from Fluttershy's hooves. The yellow mare rolled onto her back, yawning loudly and stretching her hooves in all directions. The sight made Scootaloo laugh and do the same and it wasn't long before the pair were rolling around on the bed, mock-yawning and trying to take up more space on the bed than the other. It wasn't until Fluttershy had stretched out her wings that Scootaloo relinquished control of the bed.

“Heh, no fair....ya cheater.”

“Cheater? Me? Perish the thought.” Fluttershy quickly said, moving a hoof to her mouth in a snooty way, causing Scoots to snicker into her own hoof. “In any case, we probably should be getting up. You have work in a few hours and I need to run home and check the mail for our tickets.” The orange pegasus nodded and lead the way downstairs where she made breakfast, insisting that Fluttershy just sit at the table and wait. The older pegasus chuckled and did as she was told, watching Scootaloo move about in her kitchen as she cooked. It wasn't long before they were both eating a delicious breakfast.

When Fluttershy had finished, she washed her plate and pulled Scootaloo into a kiss. “I'll be right back. I'm going to run home and see if our tickets are in the mail.” Scoots nodded, her mouth full. With that, Fluttershy left the house and headed for home. When she had finished her food, Scoots grinned as she washed her plate.

“I can't believe it...I get to go to a Wonderbolts show!” The young mare bounced up and down excitedly, her half washed plate forgotten in the soapy water. As she bounced around, she began to laugh. It started out as a quiet snicker, then became a soft giggle, then into normal chuckle, and then it became a loud laugh.

“You okay?”

“Ahh!” Scoots fell to the floor in fear at the sudden voice, but scowled when she heard a familiar laugh. “Sweetie! That's not funny!” Scootaloo looked up at her kitchen window and saw her unicorn friend standing there with a smile. The white pony disappeared and reappeared a moment later, coming in through the front door.

“What's got you so excited?” Sweetie Belle asked, helping Scootaloo up off the floor. The frown on the orange mare's face was replaced with a grin.

“I'm going to Cloudsdale...to see the WONDERBOLTS!”

“Wow....Cloudsdale! You are so lucky!” Scootaloo was surprised with her friend.

“What? N-no, Sweetie, the Wonderbolts show is what you should be excited about!”

The unicorn tilted her head and asked, “I know, but aren't you excited about going to Cloudsdale as well? I mean, you've never been up there before right?” It took a moment for the statement to click in Scootaloo's mind.

“You're right! I can't wait!” Scootaloo took to bouncing again and this time, her friend joined her, both of them laughing happily. When the two had calmed down, they both took a seat in the living room.

“So what's up Sweetie?”

“Oh nothing much. Just figured I'd come and say hi before I had to go to work.” Scootaloo's eyes widened.

“You got a job?” The unicorn giggled and nodded.

“Yea! As of today, I officially start work as a book shelver at Golden Oaks.”

“...I thought that was Spike's job? As well as pretty much doing anything that the Library needed?” Scoots asked, trying not to snicker.

“Well...it is. However, Twilight said that since he's getting older, he's going to be spending more time in Canterlot for some reason.” The pegasus gave her a confused look and all she got was a shrug in return. “I dunno why. Twilight wouldn't say.” Scootaloo nodded and stretched, taking care not to hit her friend with her wings. “Well....I gotta get goin'.” Sweetie Belle said, hopping off the couch and heading for the door.

“Alright. I'll see ya tomorrow at the station at ten o' clock sharp, okay?” Sweetie turned and saluted.

“Ma'am yes ma'am!” The two shared a laugh and the pale unicorn left, leaving Scoots to her own devices. The young pegasus sat around for a moment longer before heading back into the kitchen to make herself some lunch for later. As she was packing the last of her lunch into the small metallic box, Fluttershy came into the house, knocking first before letting herself in.

“Looks like Spitfire was true to her word.” The elder pegasus placed the tickets on the table to be seen by her younger counterpart. Scootaloo's jaw dropped as she looked at the ticket. It was a small dark red piece of paper, emblazoned with Spitfire's, Soarin's, and Fleetfoot's cutie marks along with the show information.

“This...this isn't a dream...is it?”

“Heh, I could pinch you and then you'd know for sure.” Fluttershy said with a wink and a slight blush. The next thing she knew, Fluttershy had a pair of orange hooves wrapped around her neck with a set of orange lips pressed against her own.

“Thank you SO much Fluttershy!”

“O-oh, you're quite welcome Sweetheart.” Scoots beamed as she picked up the ticket in her hooves and inspected every inch of it. “I don't mean to rain on your parade, but don't you need to start heading to work?” The orange mare looked up at the clock and nearly dropped the ticket.

“Oh! Thanks Fluttershy!” The couple shared another kiss before Scoots dashed out of her home towards the flower shop.

“She's so adorable when she's like that...” Fluttershy said, watching the young pegasus run through the street before disappearing around a building. With a content sigh, Fluttershy retrieved the tickets and hid them within the confines of her wings before leaving her lover's home, locking the door behind her and heading for the Library to see if Twilight was back from her escapade in Canterlot.

~~~~

“Aww! I wish I could go on a date like that with my marefriend!” Silver Spoon cried out, a smile on her face.

“Wait what?! You have a marefriend? Since when?” Scootaloo asked in complete surprise. Silver Spoon blushed and she stumbled over her words.

“O-oh no! I w-wasn't su-supposed to say anything yet!” The dark grey mare quickly put a hoof over her mouth.

“Aww c'mon Silver, you can tell me. I promise I won't tell anypony.” Silver Spoon seemed hesitant at first, so Scootaloo took a breath and said, “Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” while performing the actions. “Well...” The nervous pony looked around, making sure there were no eavesdroppers around.

When she was satisfied, she leaned forward and whispered, “Me and Sweetie have been dating for a few months now. Our anniversary is next week.” Silver beamed while blushing as she spoke, obviously happy she could tell somepony.

“Congrats! I always felt there was something between you two. Glad to see I was right.” Silver rolled her eyes playfully.

“Uh huh, SURE ya did Scoots.” The two shared a laugh before Colgate came into the lobby.

“What're you two laughing at? Can I know? I wanna get in on the joke.” The younger mares looked at the dentist for a moment before their laughter was started anew. Colgate laughed as well, though not as loudly.

“So Colgate, you know when Rosey's comin' back?” The young pegasus asked.

“Aww what, don't like how I run the store? You wound me Scoots, you truly do.” The azure mare placed a hoof over her heart and tossed her head back dramatically, making the younger mares snicker into their hooves. “But to answer your question, she should be back on Monday.” Scoots nodded and after a few more minutes, bid farewell to Silver Spoon and headed back into the greenhouse to get some work done instead of just loitering around in the lobby.

~~~~

Fluttershy had just made it to the library in time to see two young mares share a soft kiss in front of Golden Oaks before they headed inside, chatting happily about some subject or another. Since it was during business hours, Fluttershy just walked in, hearing a bell chime above her that she had never noticed before. “Welcome to Golden Oaks Library!” A sweet voice called out, making Fluttershy giggle into her hoof.

“Sweetie Belle? What're you doing here? And good afternoon to you Silver Spoon.”

The grey mare nodded, saying hello back while Sweetie said, “Well, I got a job here as a book shelver and receptionist!”

“Huh...I didn't know Twilight was hiring...but great job nonetheless. I'm sure you'll like working here very much.”

“Oh yea! Plus, it's really convenient since Twilight is helping me with my magic.” The unicorn said happily, a grin plastered onto her face.

“Really? Wow...I apparently have some serious catching up to do with our resident librarian. Speaking of which, is she here right now?”

Sweetie Belle nodded and said, “I believe she's in her room. She got here a few minutes before I did, so she's probably still up there.”

“Thank you Sweetie.” Fluttershy trotted past the young lovers and headed for Twilight's room.

She knocked when she arrived at the door and heard a faint, “Enter.” So, she pushed open the door and Twilight unpacking a few things.

“So...how's Octavia?” Fluttershy asked right off the bat. The question obviously threw Twilight off guard because the unicorn nearly tripped over her own hooves and began to spout random words or half finished sentences. Finally, a full, non-interrupted sentence came through.

“H-how did you kn-know?!” Twilight asked loudly.

“Well...for starters, you just confirmed my suspicions. Second, when Spike told me you were in Canterlot to visit Tavi, it made the letter she sent you make much more sense.” Twilight nodded, blushing as she smiled in embarrassment.

“O-oh...hehe...” Fluttershy walked over and hugged Twilight.

“Why didn't you say anything sooner?” Twilight hugged the pegasus back and shrugged. “I don't know...wish I would've though.” The two shared a laugh before heading into the kitchen for some tea. The time went by quickly as the two swapped stories and laughs. Finally, Fluttershy told Twilight about her upcoming date. “Ooh...sounds romantic. An evening show to see the Wonderbolts...how beautiful.” Fluttershy couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at seeing her friend's eyes sort of glaze over for a second.

“I take it you've been to one?” Twilight nodded.

“Mhmm. Cadence took me to one of their shows in Canterlot once. It was absolutely amazing. You two won't be disappointed, believe me.” Fluttershy chuckled and said,

“I'm holding that to you Twilight Sparkle. If it isn't as good as you say it'll be, I'll send Spitfire after ya.” The lavender unicorn laughed and pretended to quiver in fear.

“N-no! Anything but that! I've heard of Spitfire's legendary wrath!” The two burst into laughter loud enough that the mares down in the lobby of the library looked up in curiosity. When the two had settled down, they discussed anything that came up in conversation until the clock behind Twilight chimed at six o' clock.

“Oh my...time sure flies when you're having fun.” The peasus said, standing up to stretch. Twilight followed suite, groaning as she felt the joints in her body crack and snap.

“You heading back over to Scootaloo's?”

“Mhmm. I don't think she feels truly safe enough to be alone yet, especially so close to the break in.”

Twilight nodded and said, “Ahh, I see. So then- wait what?!”

“Oh right...you weren't here were you? Scootaloo's home was broken into and nopony had any idea who did it or why.”

“Oh my goodness! Is she okay?” Twilight asked, fear in her eyes. However, Fluttershy relieved her fear by nodding.

“Thankfully she was with me when it had happened.” The unicorn sighed in relief.

“Did the guards find anything?”

The timid pegasus shook her head and said, “No. The guards couldn't find anything incriminating or any kind of clues.” Twilight nodded, her brow furrowed in thought.

“Well...at least she's okay.” The older mare nodded before speaking.

“Yea...I don't know what I would've done if something happened to her.” The librarian moved over to her friend and pulled her into a hug, which the pegasus eagerly returned. When the two broke apart, Twilight began to lead Fluttershy down the stairs.

“Listen, if there's anything I can do at all, just let me know okay? I'll ask around and in the meantime, I'll see if I can learn anything.”

“Thanks Twilight.” The two hugged one last time and Fluttershy left the library and headed for her marefriend's home.

~~~~

When Scootaloo left the flower shop, she was exhausted. About ten minutes before close, the store got rushed and she ended up staying there two hours after she should've left. “Lousy stallions....forgetting things like that...” the young mare mumbled. She was relieved however, to see the lights on in her home, telling her that Fluttershy was there. So, she opened the door and stepped inside and was immediately hit with the smell of food. The orange pegasus couldn't stop the small strand of drool fall from her lips as she inhaled the scent coming from the kitchen.

“Scootaloo? Is that you?”

“Yea! That smells fantastic Fluttershy!” Scootaloo, her fatigue forgotten, rushed into the kitchen where she saw dinner placed on the table, a candle in the middle. “Ooh...what's the occasion? Oh, should I go get dressed or something? This looks like the kind of meal that-”

“No no, you're fine. I just wanted to do something nice and have a candlelit dinner with my marefriend. Is...is that okay?” Scoots nodded, a soft smile gracing her lips.

“It's perfect.” So, the younger of the two took her seat and watched as Fluttershy moved around in the kitchen, using her wings to keep her balanced as she moved around on just her hind hooves. 'Reminds me of that one pony...what's her name...usually carries that weird harp thing...' Scoots shook her head, chasing the thoughts from her mind as Fluttershy took the seat opposite her. Scootaloo smiled and hopped up to turn off the lights, leaving the kitchen bathed in the soft glow of the candle. The flickering flame lit up the walls with dancing shadows as the couple ate their meal, the only sound being that of their silverware clinking on their plates, smiles on both their faces. The silence was comfortable instead of awkward or oppressive.

It was simply...there, with nothing really attached to it. When the meal had been finished, Fluttershy lifted herself out of the chair and blew out the candle, leaving the room in total darkness. Scootaloo felt a small twitch of fear at being completely “alone” in the dark. However, the feeling quickly melted away as she felt a soft pair of lips on her own. “Mmm...” The younger mare moaned into her lover's lips, and she felt a smile against her own. Scootaloo felt the need to say something, but she knew that whatever she said would ruin the moment she was sharing with the pony she loved.

The young pegasus wrapped her hooves around Fluttershy's neck, and Fluttershy put her own hooves around Scootaloo's as they began to deepen the kiss. It wasn't hot or hungry like it had been the night before, instead being tender and loving. When they pulled away, they could see each other's dimly-lit eyes in the darkness. With no words, the couple made their way upstairs and crawled into the bed together, immediately snuggling close to each other and falling asleep soon after, a smile on both their lips.

~~The Next Day~~

When Scootaloo awoke, she laid still as he eyes slowly opened and adjusted to the brightness of Celestia's sun. The world was silent around her and it was in that silence that Scootaloo had time to think. 'We haven't been together for very long...but I can't help but...want her...' The young mare became ashamed of herself. 'If we do it too soon...she may think I just wanted to be with her for her body...and I don't want that at all. Well, I do, but not until she's ready!'

The orange pony twisted her forehooves within the warmth of the blankets that covered her as she imagined Fluttershy tauntingly coming up the bed, a lust filled gaze fixed upon her. 'Scootaloo...I want to make you mine. I want to open myself up to you...I want us to belong to nopony but each other...Please...I'll do anything for you...' Scootaloo's eyes shot open (not knowing when she had closed them) and she rushed into the bathroom, turning the shower on as cold as it would go, hoping she hadn't left any kind of...evidence in the bed as she stepped into the frigid artificial rain.

Downstairs, Fluttershy's ear twitched as she heard the shower turn on. “Ahh, she's awake.” The yellow pegasus looked up at the clock and saw that it was just turning nine. “Hmm...only eight minutes off...” She mumbled to herself as she finished her cereal and began to make Scootaloo a bowl. It wasn't a minute after Fluttershy poured the milk that Scootaloo made her way in, taking a seat as the older pegasus placed a bowl of cereal in front of her. “Sleep well love?” Fluttershy inquired, washing her bowl.

“Y-yea! Just uh...just fine.” Fluttershy could've swore she saw a blush on Scootaloo's cheek, but the young pony looked back down at her food before Flutters could truly see. So, she shrugged and continued to wash her bowl. Scootaloo was relieved that her blush had gone by the time Fluttershy turned back around and quickly ate, noticing the time. “Alright, well, I'm gonna go get Apple Bloom and head up to Canterlot.” Scootaloo said as she got up from her chair and went to the sink.

“What about Sweetie Belle?”

“She's gonna meet us at the train station.” Scoots answered as she washed her bowl. The older pegasus nodded and wrapped a hoof around Scootaloo and kissed her cheek.

“Alright then. Have fun in Canterlot and try not to get into trouble before I get there, okay?”

Scootaloo laughed and said, “No promises.” Fluttershy rolled her eyes playfully as she walked out the door with her young lover.

“I'll see you at three near the train station, alright?” The two leaned forward and gave each other a kiss. “Sounds like a date.” They kissed once more and headed their opposite ways.

~~~

As Scootaloo made her way through the apple orchard to pick up her friend, she saw Big Mac bucking trees as Applejack spoke to him about something. She made her way over and waved when Applejack looked her way. “Well howdy Sugercube. What brings ya out this way?”

“I'm here to pick up Apple Bloom for our trip to Canterlot.”

Applejack nodded and said, “Yea, she mentioned somethin' about that last night.” The orange earth mare laughed and said, “We thought she was just makin' it up to get outta workin'. Right Big Mac?”

The red stallion nodded and simply said, “Eeyup.”

Scootaloo chuckled and asked, “So is she up yet?” Applejack adjusted her hat and looked back to their home.

“She'd better be. Don't need her to get used to sleepin' in.” The Apple said.

“I'll go make sure. Thanks Applejack.” Applejack just tipped her hat and went back to talking to Big Mac about...whatever it was they were talking about. The young pegasus pushed open the door and said hello to the eldest Apple as she rocked in her chair before heading upstairs. As she browsed through her thoughts, Scootaloo didn't notice the pony heading in her direction, also looking down and it wasn't long before they bumped into each other. “Oh, my bad.”

“Nah, it's....o...kay...” Scootaloo looked up and into the cerise eyes....of Rainbow Dash.

“Er...h-hey Scoots...” Scootaloo didn't know what to say as she gazed into the eyes of her former mentor and crush.

“Oh...uh...hey Rainbow Dash.” The two sat there in an uncomfortable silence as Rainbow Dash scratched her head awkwardly while Scootaloo pawed at the wooden floor. 'I know I need to talk to her...but what should I say? Oh...What would Fluttershy do?' Finally, the silence got to Scootaloo and she opened her mouth to say something. However, the loud slamming of a door and hooves thundering up the stairs stopped her.

“Rainbow! Scootaloo is- Oh...” Applejack stood there, looking from one pegasus to the other, unsure of what to do.

“What in the hay is goin' on out here?” They all looked at the door that had just been opened and saw everypony sitting in the hallway. “Oh! Heya Scoots. C'mon, let's go.” The youngest Apple said, ushering her friend quickly away from the scene. It wasn't until the two had stepped onto the road that led back to town that Scoots snapped out of her trance.

“I...”

“Yea...sorry 'bout that Scoots. I shoulda been waitin' outside fer ya.” Apple Bloom said in embarrassment.

“N-no...it's fine. I just forgot that Dash was there...” The two walked in silence until they got to the train station, where Sweetie Belle was dangling her hind legs off the bench, kicking them back and forth like a certain mint coloured unicorn.

“It's about time you got here!” The pale pony noticed the strange air surrounding her pegasus friend and looked to Apple Bloom for explanation.

'She saw Rainbow Dash.' The young earth pony mouthed. Sweetie Belle nodded and after a moment of thinking, hopped off the bench and pulled her friends into a hug.

“C'mon girls. Ice cream awaits!” Scootaloo and Apple Bloom smiled and they all headed onto the train, cheering. When the trio had found a seat, they clambered onto the bench and started chatting about whatever crossed their minds and at some point, Scootaloo detached herself from the conversation and gazed out the window, the encounter with Rainbow Dash still lingering in her mind.

The Date

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'I should've said something...ANYTHING instead of just being all...awkward like that. Ugh...Though...from what I saw, she seemed to be doing...a little better. Flutters and I should talk to her soon...maybe later this week? I dunno...I'll need to talk to Fluttershy about it first and see where to go from there.' Scoots shook away her thoughts as she rejoined the conversation.

“...really think they'll have those kinds of flavours?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Yea! Rarity took me to an ice cream shop place once here in Canterlot and they had TONS of flavours!” Scootaloo let a small smile onto her face as she listened to her friends, her hooves idly playing with the ribbon wrapped around her foreleg.

'Can't believe I keep forgetting about this thing. It was such a sweet gift and I'm going to ruin it if I keep forgetting about it.' Scoots scolded mentally. It was then that she realized that her friends had gone silent and were staring at her. “What're you two looking at?”

“Well...” Sweetie Belle started, her mind struggling to find a delicate way to address her friend.

“We wanna know if yer okay.” Apple Bloom finished bluntly.

“Huh? Yea I'm okay. Why would you-”

“Cuz ya saw Rainbow Dash.” The earth mare said.

“Oh that...well...if anything, it was just a little awkward is all. Other than that, I'm fine.” The pegasus's friends looked at each other, apparently unconvinced. “Come on! Why would I lie to you two about this?” The two looked down in thought for a moment before Sweetie looked back up, a smile on her face.

“You're right. Sorry about that Scoots but we just care for you is all.”

“Yea! What kinda friends would we be if we didn't stick by ya?”

Scootaloo chuckled and said, “Pretty lousy ones I'd assume.” The trio shared a laugh and the rest of the train ride went smoothly. About an hour or so later, the train pulled into Canterlot. The three mares rushed out of the large method of transportation, laughing as steam washed over them. When it cleared, the Crusaders immediately began to look around for an ice cream shop.

“Maybe we should ask directions?” The unicorn asked.

“Nah, we can find one on our own.” Apple Bloom said, her eyes squinting as she scanned the surrounding area.

“But we'll get ice cream so much faster if we just-”

“Ah told ya, we can find one on our own.” Scootaloo couldn't help but snicker and roll her eyes as her two friends bickered.

“Excuse me, Miss. Do you know where we can find an ice cream parlour around here?” Scoots asked a nearby mare as her friends continued to go back and forth.

“Oh of course I can! Go down the street and hang a left at the red building and go about...half way down before you turn right and there should be a place called “Frozen's Emporium”.”

“Thank you so much.” The elder mare nodded and continued on her way. “Girls.” The orange pony said, trying to get the attention of her friends. “Girls.” Scootaloo tapped her hooves, quickly becoming annoyed. “Girls!” They continued on, ignoring her. So, Scootaloo inhaled and shouted, “GIRLS!” That seemed to do the trick as they both jumped in fright, giving Scootaloo the attention she sought after (as well as the attention outside the station). The young pegasus chuckled in embarrassment before shuffling onwards, dragging the other two Crusaders behind her. It wasn't until they turned the corner that she let them go.

“What gives?” Apple Bloom asked, dusting herself off.

“I found a place to go, but you were both ignoring me.” Scoots answered, shrugging off the look she was getting from the Apple.

“Ya asked for directions, didn't'cha?”

The orange pony rolled her eyes and said with a smile, “Yea, and now we can get ice cream.” Apple Bloom mumbled something about being independent, but Scootaloo nor Sweetie Belle paid heed to her words as they walked, the pegasus leading the way. When they walked into the shop, they were greeted by cool air and an energetic mare.

“Hiya girls!” Sweetie Belle smiled and spoke first.

“Hi Lyra! What're you doing here?” The mint unicorn said nothing, instead lifting a waffle bowl up with her magic and using a spoon to take a bite of the ice cream that lay within.

“Same thing you are I'd guess.” When the younger ponies had gotten their ice cream, they took a seat with Lyra. “So what brings you girls to Canterlot? Ice cream?”

“Mhmm!” Sweetie nodded happily, taking a bite of her vanilla ice cream that sat within the confines of a waffle bowl.

“I owed them a day together since I've been working so hard, so I promised we'd come up here and get some ice cream and spend time together.” Scoots explained, licking her the chocolate ice cream that was perched precariously on a cone.

“Eeyup.” Was all Apple Bloom said before returning to her strawberry milkshake. Lyra laughed and ate more of her own ice cream. As they all talked and joked around, Scootaloo couldn't help but notice something.

“....You two get together often?” The pegasus asked, looking at Sweetie and Lyra.

They both grinned and simultaneously said, “Yup!” The other two Crusaders waited for an explanation that would close their hanging jaws.

“We get together at least once a week and just hang out at that little cafe near the market. You know the one: serves nothing but milkshakes and hay fries?” Scoots and Apple Bloom both nodded before the earth pony spoke.

“So when did y'all start hangin' out?” Scootaloo was curious as well. Never had the young unicorn mention spending time with Lyra.

“Ever since I found out we're related.” Sweetie Belle said with a grin. If either Scootaloo or Apple Bloom had been eating, they would've spit out whatever had been in their mouths from shock. The two unicorns laughed at the dumbstruck faces the other Crusaders had made.

“R-related?!” Scootaloo finally managed to say.

“Mhmm! I'm actually Rarity's sister. Though sadly, it's not a well known fact. I think she's embarrassed by me.” Lyra said with a snicker. After the shock had worn off, the four continued on as normal. “So, what do you girls plan on doing after this?” The Crusaders looked at each other and collectively shrugged.

“No idea. I mean, I'm leaving at around three, but I dunno about these two.” Scootaloo said.

“Ooh, where ya goin'?”

“She gets to go to Cloudsdale to see the Wonderbolts!” Sweetie Belle shouted, throwing her hooves up into the air.

“Heh, very nice. You goin' with anypony?” This time, it was Apple Bloom who stopped Scoots from speaking.

“With her marefriend Fluttershy.” As the earth pony spoke, her tone went all sing song-y, making Scootaloo blush.

“Aww! That's so sweet!” Lyra gushed, reaching over the table and hugging the pegasus. Scootaloo laughed and pushed the older mare away from her, fixing her mane in a mock dignified way. After another half an hour, the group decided to leave, bringing Lyra along with them. So, the group walked through the pristine city on the mountain, talking and commenting on things that caught their interest. Eventually however, the small group walked by a clock as it was chiming thrice, signaling that it was three o' clock.

“Ooh! I gotta get back to the train station! I'll catch you girls later!” And with that Scootaloo dashed off, leaving a trio of laughing mares in her wake at her near forgetfulness. Thankfully, Scootaloo managed to make it back to the station in about ten minutes, panting heavily. “Hope...I didn't miss her...” Scoots said between breaths. She looked around for any sign of her loved one, but saw hide nor hair of the gracefully pegasus. So, Scootaloo moved off to the side so she wouldn't get caught up in the traffic of ponies going to and from the station.

However, it wasn't a minute later that she felt something strange on her back. Scootaloo tried to turn, but found that something was keeping her head forward. “Wha-” She began to speak, but was interrupted by the sound of somepony inhaling deeply. Scootaloo shivered as she felt the hair on the back of her neck stand on end.

“Ahh...” A male voice sighed contently whenever he had finished sniffing her.

“Let go ya creep!” Scootaloo struggled, but to no avail.

“This smell...it belongs to that little angel of a mare ya got with ya, don't it?”

“Huh? What're you talking about? Lemme go!” Scootaloo tried to spin and face her captor, but he kept her still.

“Stop strugglin' or I'll break yer leg.”His voice was harsh and gruff, like he had something in the back of his throat that just wouldn't go away. The threat worked almost immediately as Scootaloo stiffened. “That's better.” She heard the sound of liquid sloshing in a container of some sort before the sound of him guzzling it down. “Ahh...now then...where was I?” He asked rhetorically.

Scootaloo felt the urge to make some kind of sarcastic quip, but refrained. 'He's probably drunk...I can smell the hard cider on his breath whenever he opens his mouth...so he would probably make good on his threat to break my leg...' Scootaloo thought, her eyes scanning the crowd and wondering how none of them could notice that she was in trouble.

“Ahh yes. I wanted to commend you on your home. A right pretty place it was.”

“You're the one who broke in, aren't you?!” Scoots hissed through her teeth.

“Aye, that I am. Bet you wanna know WHY, don't'cha?” Her silence prompted him to continue. “I was hopin' I could catch that timid little beauty of yours alone and have a little....chat with her.”

'Yeah right, and I'm a unicorn.' Scootaloo thought. “Stay away from Fluttershy or I swear I'll-”

“Fluttershy's her name huh? What a lovely and innocent name that is.” It was grating to hear this...thing to even utter her beloved's name and Scootaloo tensed when he did. “Can't imagine why she'd be with you though. Lousy little pegasus who can't even fly.” Scootaloo's wings flared as did her temper and began to struggle once more, fighting even harder to face him. “Ah ah ah, temper temper.” The captive mare felt pressure on her left hind leg as he pushed a hoof against it, making it turn a way it wasn't naturally supposed to turn. Scootaloo bit her lower lip as he continued with no sign of stopping.

'Oh Celestia...h-he's really gonna break my leg!' Panic flooded Scootaloo's system, fighting pain for dominance over which should be prioritized. Thankfully, the pressure stopped as she heard her name.

“Scootaloo?”

“Ahh...there's the little mare now...looks like you get off this time ya little brat.” Scoots felt herself get shoved forward as he released his grip on her. The young pony caught herself before she hit the ground and quickly spun as soon as she had corrected her stance. Sadly, there was no sign of anypony.

“Rats...” Scoots mumbled, idly rubbing her sore leg.

“Oh Scootaloo! There you are!” The young mare felt herself get swept up into the hooves of her lover and she couldn't help but hug back.

“H-hey Fluttershy.” The older pegasus quickly picked up on the strange tone in her younger counterpart's voice.

“Is something wrong?” Scootaloo contemplated telling her marefriend of what had just transpired, but decided against it.

'Don't need her worrying as well...' Scoots thought quickly. “Nah. I was just wondering when you'd get here is all.” Fluttershy regarded her young lover for a moment, and Scootaloo was afraid her lie had been seen through.

Fortunately, the yellow pegasus's features softened and she said, “Sorry. Angel Bunny wasn't exactly thrilled that I wouldn't be back in time for dinner.” Scootaloo rolled her eyes at the bunny's antics before she spoke again.

“So...exactly how are we getting to Cloudsdale?” Fluttershy giggled set Scootaloo down before setting her hooves down onto the cobblestone as well.

“I'm going to carry you, of course.” For the second time that day, Scootaloo's jaw dropped.

“I...but you...are...what?!” Fluttershy couldn't help the laughter that came at the expense of her younger counterpart.

“Don't worry. I've carried things that were much heavier than you, and for longer distances. While...Rainbow Dash was built for speed and dexterity, I'm built for strength and endurance.” Scootaloo could do nothing but nod. The yellow pony rolled her eyes playfully and reconnected Scootaloo's jaw with the rest of her head, allowing the younger pony to finally form a proper sentence.

“Would you really be able to carry me all the way to Cloudsdale?”

“Of course! It's actually not that far from here. It's about a thirty minute flight.” Scoots gave another nod before she voiced her second concern.

“So then are you carrying me?” Once again, Fluttershy giggled.

“In a sense. Hop on.” The blush that flared onto Scootaloo's face could be matched by no mare or stallion in coat or colour as the yellow mare crouched to let Scootaloo on her back.

“I....I dunno about thIS!” In the middle of her word, Fluttershy had swooped under her lover and taken to the sky. Scootaloo clutched onto her lover as tightly as she dared as the two soared through the sky, her voice dead in her throat.

After a few minutes, she felt a gently nudge followed by, “It's okay Sweetheart. I would never let you fall.” For some reason, these words brought even more unease into the young pony.

'This isn't like last time! She won't let you fall! She'd never let you fall! Where Rainbow Dash failed...Fluttershy will not.' Slowly but surely, Scootaloo opened her eyes to see the sky around her. All around her were clouds of all shapes and sizes, just freely floating as they went untouched by the pegasi of Equestria after their creation. As the wind whipped through her mane, Scootaloo felt an exuberant rush at the sensation of flying through the air.

A smile appeared on the orange pegasus's face, which slowly evolved into a grin that spread from one ear to the other. From that grin came a soft chuckle. That chuckle quickly changed into a giggle and from there became a laugh that was carried away on the wind to nowhere in particular. When her laughter had been contained, Scootaloo quivered happily, the joy she had reigned in struggling to find a way out. Finally, Scootaloo opened her mouth, and screamed in rapture. Fluttershy couldn't help but grin as she heard her lover shout her joy to the world.

While the young pegasus of incapable of flight on her own, Fluttershy was more than happy to at least give Scootaloo the feeling of flying through the air. She had remembered the first time she had truly flown. The yellow pegasus had felt the joy for at least two days after her flight, so she could only imagine how much bliss Scoots would feel, and how long she would feel it for. Fluttershy turned her head when she didn't hear the joyful screams and saw Scootaloo's eyes close as she slowly extended her wings. The orange mare's body nearly went numb as she became detached from the world around her, leaving only herself and the wind.

'This feeling...it's far better than I could ever imagine it would've been. I've been missing out on this for so long...and now I can truly see why so many older pegasi have pitied me...for I live a sad and empty life without the power of flight...' As she continued to think, Scootaloo felt a slight shift and remembered that she wasn't alone here in the sky. 'No...not sad and empty. I have something that those pegasi don't have...I have a pony I can trust with my life! I have a pony who will love me no matter what flaws I possess...I have a pony who makes up for my lack of flight tenfold. I have...Fluttershy.' As she thought of her lover's name, Scootaloo opened her eyes and immediately found herself looking into soft cyan eyes.

'I love you.' Scootaloo mouthed, to which Fluttershy gave a soft smile and said the words back to her. Scoots leaned down and hugged the mare carrying her and said, “Thank you so much Fluttershy...”

“Any time Scootaloo. Whenever you want to be up here in the sky, just tell me and I'll be more than happy to oblige.” The younger pony's heart soared at knowing she could share this with her lover any time she wanted. Instead of saying anything, Scootaloo carefully let go with her forehooves and turned Fluttershy's head to kiss her. Fluttershy's heart skipped a beat as her marefriend pulled her into a kiss. Little did Scootaloo know, but kissing while in flight was one of the most intimate things a pegasus could do for their significant other.

'I know she doesn't know...but that doesn't make it any less romantic.' The caretaker thought with a warm grin. Finally, the flight came to an end as they began to reach Cloudsdale.

“Wow....it's so...beautiful.” Scoots said, her eyes wide in fascination.

“I'm glad you like it.” The orange mare's head turned this way and that, trying to look at every little thing she could from her vantage point before they landed. Scootaloo immediately hopped off and began running around, looking at all the nearby buildings with awe. Fluttershy couldn't help but giggle at her young lover's behaviour and when Scoots heard her laughing, she blushed hotly and cleared her throat.

“I-I mean...it's pretty nice and stuff...” Fluttershy walked over and kissed Scootaloo's forehead and said,

“C'mon. I'll show you around for awhile since the show doesn't start for another hour and a half.” Scootaloo grinned and eagerly followed. As they walked, Fluttershy talked about the city itself and of the landmarks they passed while Scootaloo listened with endless interest and even commenting here and there about some aspect of the flying city that she had learned about in school. Eventually, they made it to the Cloudosseum.

“Holy Celestia that thing is HUGE!” Scoots said aloud, craning her neck to see the top from where she stood.

“Mhmm. Biggest structure in Cloudsdale to date. Now come on, let's find our seats inside.” If Scootaloo's body had been trembling in excitement before, it was absolutely shaking now as they walked up to the stallion in a small booth labeled “tickets”.

“Evenin' ladies. You here for the show?” Fluttershy nodded and fished the tickets out from between her wings and presented them. The stallion took them, a grin growing on his face. “You must be Fluttershy and Scootaloo, correct?” The two shared a shocked look before nodding. “Spitsy said you'd be comin'. Go ahead and head down that hallway over yonder and it'll lead right to your seats.”

“T-thank you.” The yellow mare mumbled, earning a laugh from the ticket-master. The two shook off the surprise and headed down a hallway and Fluttershy quickly noticed something. “That's odd...usually these corridors are packed tight with pegasi trying to get in and to their seats.”

“Huh...maybe nopony goes down this way much?” Scoots asked with a shrug. Fluttershy could do nothing but shrug back and continue walking. At some point, they ascended a staircase and when they got to the top, they finally made it out of the hall and they both gasped, but for different reasons. Scootaloo gasped because of the view that was presented to them. They were sitting where they could see the entire stadium perfectly and there were no other ponies in sight. Fluttershy gasped because she knew exactly where they were.

'Is she even ALLOWED to let us sit here?!' The yellow pegasus thought in a light panic. It must've showed on her face, because Scootaloo commented on it.

“You okay Flutters?”

“Y-yeah...just a little surprised is all.”

“Oh? Why's that?” Scoots asked, taking one of the two seats in front of them. “Wow...this VIP section is pretty nice...” She said to herself.

“That's just it, though. This isn't the VIP section. That's over there.” Scootaloo followed Fluttershy's hoof and saw she was pointing to a small boxed off area across from them.

“Then...what's this we're sitting in?” Scoots asked, slowly getting off the seat.

“T-this is the Princess's Box.” The orange mare resisted having her jaw drop yet again, instead holding her jaw closed with a hoof. After a moment, she spoke.

“Can...can we even sit up here? Maybe that stallion made a mistake?”

“Oh, it's no mistake.” Came a voice from behind. Both mares jumped and spun in mid-air to face the voice.

“S-Spitfire! Don't scare me like that!” Fluttershy said, her hoof over her heart while Scootaloo was struck speechless. The Wonderbolt chuckled and pulled Fluttershy into a hug.

“So I take it this is Scootaloo? Nice ta meet'cha Scootaloo.” Spitfire held out her hoof to the younger mare, who took it and shook it a little harder than she had planned.

“I-it's a p-pleasure to meet you!”

“Careful Spitfire. I found out recently that's she's quite the fan.”

Once again, the captain laughed and said, “Is that so? Well, always nice to meet a fan.” Scoots just nodded, not trusting her mouth.

'I can't believe it! I'm actually talking to Spitfire!' The youngest of the three shook her head and said, “So uh...h-how do you know Fluttershy?” Spitfire and Fluttershy looked at each other and smiled before Spitfire turned back and said,

“We go way back. I was always keepin' an eye out for her when she was in school and flight camp. Though after she met up with Dash, I just wasn't needed as much.”

Scoots nodded and then asked, “So then...you two are foalhood friends?”

“Oh yea! We were as close as close could be, weren't we 'Shy?” Spitfire asked, throwing a hoof around the pink-maned mare and pulling her into a half hug.

“Mhmm! If it wasn't for Spitfire, I don't know WHERE I'd be right now.”

“Aww shucks 'Shy, you're giving me WAY too much credit here.” The trio laughed and continued on with small talk until another Wonderbolt came by.

“Hey Spitfire, we're goin' on soon.” He glanced at the other two pegasi and smiled. “Good evening Fluttershy.”

“Good evening Lighting.” Spitfire rolled her eyes with a smile and walked over to Scootaloo, pulling her aside so she wouldn't be heard. “I'm happy for you both, and I'm especially happy that you decided to be with her. You mean a lot to her you know.”

Scoots nodded and said, “I can imagine.” Spitfire looked back over her shoulder and saw that Fluttershy was still engaged in conversation.

“So that's why I want you to be careful with her, okay? She's not weak or helpless...but she's still a little on the...fragile side from time to time. I'd hate for her to get hurt...She means a lot to me, ya know?” Scootaloo said nothing at first, opting to instead nod.

'Wow...they must've been really good friends back then...or maybe even...' The young orange mare kicked the thought from her mind and said, “Don't worry. I love her too much to let anything happen to her, and I swear on Celestia's sun and Luna's moon that I will never hurt her.” This time, it was Spitfire who nodded before speaking.

“Good. Now then, I've got a show to put on.” She left Scoots with a wink, dragging Lightning Streak out with her.

“You know Lightning Streak too?” The young mare asked, taking a seat in the smaller and darker chair.

“Mhmm. He's dating my father so I've known him for quite awhile.” Fluttershy replied, taking a hesitant seat in the bigger and brighter chair. The two talked for a moment before a loud, booming voice silenced them.

“Fillies and gentlecolts! Put your hooves together for the greatest flying team in all of Equestria...THE WONDERBOLTS!” Cheers erupted from everywhere as the pegasi in uniform flew out from a small opening near the bottom of the Cloudosseum. Ponies all over the place screamed the name of their favourite Wonderbolt while others held signs or pictures. Even Scootaloo couldn't help but cheer Spitfire's name. Fluttershy giggled and hugged the younger mare.

“You're so cute when you're excited.” The words burned a blush onto Scootaloo's face as she hugged Fluttershy back, not trusting her voice to respond. The two cheered and screamed happily as the show went on, unaware of the eyes that gazed upon them with hatred. As the show went on and Celestia's sun began to disappear from the sky, the cheers never died out. Finally, as the show began to wind down, the announcer spoke again, appearing as if from nowhere.

“Fillies and gentlecolts, let's give one last round of applause for the one...the only...WONDERBOLTS!” A deafening roar overtook the stadium as every pony got to their hooves and clopped them together. The Wonderbolts all lined up in the air, bowing and waving to their various fans.

'Wait...isn't Daddy supposed to-'

“Lightning Streak!” The whole stadium went silent as a lone pegasus flew out of the crowd towards the addressed Wonderbolt. Ponies were screaming for security to stop the pony, but the guards simply smiled, knowing who the male pegasus was. Lightning Streak met the yellow stallion half way, pulling him into an embrace.

“Warm Breeze? What're you-”

“Will you marry me?”The surprise on the Wonderbolt's face was something to be admired as he tried to stammer out some kind of reply. Everypony else was pretty much the same way, some obviously wanting to tell him to accept while others wanted to scream their objections. Finally, Fluttershy stood near the edge of the box and shouted,

“Say yes!” The two stallions smiled at the mare and looked back at each other.

“Of course I'll marry you Warm Breeze.” Then, Lightning Streak pulled his fiance close and tenderly kissed him. More than half the stadium fell back into a chorus of joyful cheering, and even the other Wonderbolts cheered for the new married couple. Eventually, ponies were ushered out of the Cloudsseum with the exception of Fluttershy, Scootaloo, and Warm Breeze as they conversed with Spitfire and Lightning Streak. However, around nine, Scootaloo yawned.

“We should probably be getting back. Scootaloo has school tomorrow.”

“But I'm not tired!” The young mare exclaimed, getting to her hooves.

“She's right you know. School is pretty important.” Spitfire said, standing up and stretching.

“I know...” The older pegasi could see the slight downshift in the younger mare's mood, so Spitfire came near and pulled Scootaloo into a hug.

“Don't worry. Since it's nearly off-season, I'll probably be visiting Fluttershy more often.” At this, Scootaloo's eyes lit up.

“Really?!”

“Mhmm. Now, before you go...I want you to have this. Think of it as a souvenir from your first Wonderbolt's show.” The fiery pegasus unstrapped the goggles from her head and placed them upon the young orange pony's. Scootaloo couldn't form any semblance of a sentence as she sat there, feeling the goggles upon her head. Fluttershy giggled and kissed her lover's forehead.

“Thank you Spitfire, and congratulations Daddy.” The stallion simply smiled and snuggled his head into the crook of his husband's foreleg. “Come along Scootaloo.” Fluttershy gently nudged the young pony along, the orange mare frozen in place. When she finally snapped out of her stupor, the two were in mid-air, heading down to Ponyville.

“Wow...”

“I take it you enjoyed our date?” Fluttershy asked, flapping her wings every so often as she continued to glide downward.

“Enjoyed it? I LOVED it! I got to see a Wonderbolt's show, I got to MEET Spitfire, I was there for your father's proposal...It was an amazing date Fluttershy. Thank you.” Scootaloo leaned forward and kissed Fluttershy. The yellow mare giggled against Scootaloo's lips and in turn, Scootaloo couldn't help but giggle as well and soon, the two were laughing in the night sky. When they arrived back at Scootaloo's, Fluttershy immediately took her younger counterpart to her bedroom and crawled into bed.

“You're tired?” Scoots asked, yawning as she crawled under the blanket and into the waiting hooves of her lover.

“Mhmm. Aren't you? I don't know about you, but I've had a long day.” Scoots nodded and snuggled her face against Fluttershy's chest.

“Love ya, Fluttershy.”

“Love you too, Scootaloo. Sweet dreams.” The two shared a tender kiss and fell asleep, unaware of the presence that loomed outside the house, chuckling in a dark tone.