//------------------------------// // The Long Road Home Part 2 // Story: AppleShy Series // by PatRoison //------------------------------// “Silver, don’t forget the boxes by the shed.” Silver Stream, or Gray to his friends, shook the sweat from his mane and sighed. “I didn’t forget,” he lied and got to his hooves. Stretching his sore legs, he walked to the shed and saw boxes. Crates would have been a more appropriate description, but they were far too heavy for him to move on his own. He stepped inside the shop and asked, “And who’s helping me move those things?” His mother, Astral Stream, smiled and said, “Just use your magic.” Silver rolled his eyes, “Mom, you know my magic’s not that good, and even if I could, those crates are too heavy.” Astral Stream stopped wiping the counter and said, “I don’t want you to move them. You just need to unpack them and organize the shed before your father gets home.” Silver stared at his mother for a moment and said, “Oh, would’ve helped if I knew that.” “Would’ve helped if you asked,” she said. “Okay,” Silver said, “I’ll get on that. Want me to head over to the orchard after I’m done?” Astral Stream bent down and picked up a clipboard. After studying it for a minute, she shook her head. “I don’t think that’ll be necessary, but I know you want to go for a run.” Silver smiled, “Okay, I’ll get the shed sorted and head over to the orchard.” Astral Stream shook her head, “It’s called Sweet Apple Acres. Try to make a good impression.” Silver laughed, “And ruin my reputation?” His ego immediately deflated when his mom said, “You don’t have a reputation. Now get back to work.” “Yes, boss,” he said and left the shop. He returned to the crates, levitated a crowbar, and got to work. --- “Well,” Fluttershy said, “I’m sorry, but I don’t know what to do now.” Scootaloo laughed, “And you think I do? Let’s see what happens.” Fluttershy smiled, “That sounds like a plan.” The two sat on a bench, but the conversation was not going well. They were enjoying the quiet in their own way. Foals ran about playing and would occasionally wave to Scootaloo and would smile and wave back. “Would you like to play with your friends,” Fluttershy asked. Scootaloo shook her head, “No. I’d rather talk to you. I have so many questions.” Fluttershy stroked Scootaloo’s mane and said, “I know you do, and I promise to be completely honest with you.” “You said that when you found out that you were my mom, it was because you had to go away. What happened?” Fluttershy dropped her gaze and looked back up when Scootaloo asked, “It must’ve been really serious, huh?” “It was,” Fluttershy said, “And it involves something that I don’t know if you’re old enough to know about.” Scootaloo nodded and ran a hoof along the edge of the table, “That’s kind of like what Big Mac said. That we’re too young to understand, but I think he was just too uncomfortable to tell us.” “He probably was,” Fluttershy said, “But you’ll know soon enough.” They looked up when they heard a window open. “Hey, Scootaloo,” Ivy called down. “Hey, Ivy,” Scootaloo shouted, “Be careful.” The young girl rolled her eyes, “I’m not that clumsy. Who’s that?” Fluttershy said, “I’m. I’m visiting Scootaloo.” Ivy tilted her head and shouted, “What? I can’t hear you.” Scootaloo giggled, “You’ll need to speak up. I’ll tell her.” She looked up and shouted, “Turns out she’s my real mom.” The young girl’s face went through several emotions in the span of a moment. Eventually, it settled on a slightly saddened look and asked, “Are you leaving?” Scootaloo turned to Fluttershy, who gave her a comforting smile. She knew Fluttershy meant what she said about Scootaloo deciding whether or not to live with her. “No,” she shouted, “I’ll be back on Monday. We want to spend some time together.” “Okay,” Ivy shouted, “Well, have fun. I have to do my chores.” She didn’t wait for Scootaloo to respond. The window shut, and, again, the pegasi were left to wonder what to do next. Fluttershy breathed a sigh of relief when she heard the sounds of young ponies running towards them. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were soon at the orphanage. They looked around and ran to the pegasi when they spotted them. “There you are,” Apple Bloom shouted. Sweetie Belle hopped on the bench and asked, “What happened back there? You’re really Scootaloo’s mom?” “Girls,” Scootaloo said, “We’ll get to that. Right now, we’re figuring out what we’re supposed to do.” Apple Bloom nodded, “That makes sense.” Fluttershy smiled and asked, “Scootaloo?” Scootaloo looked up and asked, “Yeah?” “Would you like Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle to spend the night so you’ll be more comfortable?” Scootaloo smiled, “That could be fun. Just like the first sleepover.” Fluttershy shuddered from the memories of that night, “Well, hopefully, it’ll be calmer than last time.” Sweetie Belle grinned and said, “That sound like fun, we should go ask our sisters.” Apple Bloom nodded, “I’ll see you tonight. If Applejack doesn’t let me spend the night, I’ll still pop on by to let you know.” The two girls ran home, and Scootaloo and Fluttershy got off the bench. “We should go home,” Fluttershy said. They began walking, and Scootaloo stopped when she noticed that she was walking alone. Scootaloo looked back and asked, “Fluttershy, what’s wrong?” “Oh,” Fluttershy said, “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.” Scootaloo tilted her head and smiled, “Oh, home. It’s okay. Don’t worry about it.” Fluttershy smiled warmly and asked, “Have we met?” Scootaloo laughed, and they continued walking to Fluttershy’s cottage. --- Rainbow saw the interaction from a cloud, and it warmed her heart. She knew that Fluttershy wouldn’t be so straightforward as to take custody of Scootaloo, but the shy pegasus was making progress. “They’ll be okay,” she whispered. She took off toward the town square and spotted a building with a ‘coming soon’ banner on the side. Rainbow decided to land and check it out. When she got there, she spotted a blue stallion that looked familiar but couldn’t place. He looked as though he’d been working hard, as he was sweating pretty heavily. A female earth pony stepped out of the building and smiled at Rainbow Dash. “Hello, there,” she said, “I’d welcome you to First Class Shipping, but we’re not open for business.” Rainbow smiled, “New shop, huh?” The earth pony smiled, “Yes, we have a shop just below Cloudsdale, and we are expanding a bit. Really, we’re just moving the main office to a more populated area.” Rainbow Dash tilted her head in confusion, “But Cloudsdale has a bigger population than Ponyville.” The earth pony nodded, “Up on the clouds, they do, but in case you haven’t noticed, I don’t have wings. At ground level, there are hardly any ponies around.” Rainbow shrugged, “That makes sense, but what are you doing with the old shop?” “Storage,” a new voice said, “Or that’s what she tells me.” The stallion she spotted earlier walked up to Rainbow and extended a hoof. “So we meet again,” he said, smiling. “Oh,” the earth pony said, “You know each other?” Rainbow shook his hoof and said, “I know I should know you, but I can’t remember.” He laughed, “It’s okay, you were just one of several deliveries I had that day, and from the look of things, you had bigger things to worry about.” Rainbow Dash stared at the ground and looked up when she remembered. “You were at the hospital,” she said, “You delivered that package from the Wonderbolts.” The earth pony nodded, “He always handles the Cloudsdale deliveries, though not a pegasus. His magic was a big help.” “Yeah,” he said, “Especially when certain ponies are feeling lazy.” “Enough of that,” the earth pony said, “Let’s at least be neighborly and introduce ourselves.” She pointed to herself and said, “I’m Astral Stream. My husband, Solar Stream, is finalizing the last-minute orders in Cloudsdale, and this is our son, Silver Stream.” “Yeah,” Rainbow said, “Gray to your friends, right?” “Did you really tell her that story,” Astral Stream scolded Silver. “She asked,” Silver said, shrugging, “And it’s a good story.” He smiled and said, “Besides, new town, hopefully, new nickname.” “And what’s wrong with your real name,” Astral Stream asked. Silver waved a hoof and said, “It’s an image thing.” He pointed at Rainbow Dash and added, “She gets it. You’re looking at a future Wonderbolt, maybe, so she knows the importance of a good nickname.” Astral Stream laughed as she shook her head. She smiled warmly at Rainbow and asked, “We’re new to Ponyville. Do you know the ponies that operate the Sweet Apple Acres orchard?” Rainbow smiled, “Yeah, one of my friends lives there.” She felt a slight pang of guilt as she used to say that one of her ‘best’ friends lived at the orchard. “You guys shipping something over there,” she asked. Silver nodded, “Seems like farm equipment, mostly. Shipment’s not due until tomorrow, but I wanted to drop by and get to know them.” “Tell the truth will you,” Astral Stream scolded, “You just want to go for a run. Have you finished with the shed?” “Almost finished,” Silver lied again, “Shouldn’t take too much longer.” Rainbow smiled at him and said, “When you’re not so tired, I’ll take you up on that race.” Silver grinned, “You remembered? We can race after I’m done.” “Not happening,” Rainbow said, “You’re gonna use the excuse that you were too tired from working when you lose.” Silver laughed, “Those sound like fighting words. Okay, Future Wonderbolt, you’re on. I’ll make sure I’m good and rested to take you on.” “In other words,” Astral Stream said, rolling her eyes, “You’re gonna be lazy for a couple of days.” Silver turned to Astral Stream and said, “Mom, this is way too important. We’re talking about the pride of First Class Shipping here. You have to understand just how monumental this is.” “All I understand,” Astral Stream said, “Is just how full of it you are.” She walked back inside and asked, “Why couldn’t the princess give me a sweet little girl?” The two ponies outside shared a look and began laughing. Silver extended a hoof, “Okay, but seriously, I’ll take you up on the race. The winner buys lunch.” Rainbow took a step back, “What kind of rule is that?” Silver shrugged, “It’s a rule my friends made up. This way, nopony gets mad. You always have the option of saying no.” “I’m not backing down from a challenge,” Rainbow said, “But don’t try and get a free lunch from me.” “Absolutely not,” Silver said, “If I’m going to be known as a renowned runner, I have to go after the best.” Rainbow laughed, “Okay, well, I gotta go. Nice meeting you again, Silver.” “Anytime, Wonderbolt,” he said and returned to his work. Rainbow took to the air and flew to the shed. Silver looked up and waved at her. She waved back and said, before taking off, “And don’t think I’ll let you off the hook for that ‘maybe’ comment earlier.” Rainbow had to think of where to go next and decided that Pinkie Pie would be the best place to hang out. She headed to Sugarcube Corner to see the former Agent Diane Pie. --- Rarity stood inside her shop for the first time in weeks. She knew the building inside and out, but at this moment, it felt foreign to her. She tried going to her workshop to find inspiration but couldn’t when she saw the designs she had drawn up just a few months earlier. Rarity levitated the designs that she had begun just before this entire ordeal started. Designs for Fluttershy’s wedding dress. “I hope I can still make this for her,” she whispered. A smile appeared on her face when she remembered Scootaloo. The young filly would have to be the flower girl, but her dress would have to match Fluttershy’s. She ran, in a ladylike fashion, to her desk, levitated a quill, and... nothing. Her mind was completely blank. She knew the basic form that she wanted, but her heart was not in it. “Twilight,” she whispered, “I know I promised to give you time, but this simply cannot wait.” She left the boutique and nearly jumped out of her skin when she heard a shout. “Rarity,” Sweetie Bell shouted, “Fluttershy invited us to spend the night at her cottage. Can I go?” The older white unicorn steadied her frantic breathing and smiled at her little sister. “As long as Fluttershy has agreed, then go ahead,” Rarity said. “Yay,” Sweetie Bell shouted and ran off. “Where are you going,” Rarity shouted. Sweetie Belle didn’t stop but turned and shouted, “To Apple Bloom’s. We’ll go to Fluttershy’s from there.” Rarity shook her head and locked up the boutique. She walked toward the library, the last time she made the trip there replaying in her mind. Such mindless anger, she scolded herself. It was not that it was unladylike. It was downright barbaric how she behaved. A question that nagged her ever since she returned, would she have acted differently had she known more? She believed that she would not have resorted to violence, but she knew that she would have still stood by Fluttershy’s side. That would never change. Rarity soon arrived at the library and knocked on the door. Spike opened and said, “Hey, Rarity. What’s up?” The fact that the dragon had since stopped looking at her with affection stung, but she understood. “I’m here to visit Twilight,” she said, “I promise to behave myself. I simply wish to speak with her.” “I’d like that too,” Twilight said, “Come in, Rarity.” Spike stepped aside, and Rarity entered the library. “Thank you, Twilight,” Rarity said, “I have been completely unable to focus on my work. We must resolve this.” Twilight smiled, “You too?” She motioned for the kitchen, “I tried doing some studying, but I just kept thinking about our fight.” “I can imagine,” Rarity said, “Especially since this is where it occurred.” Twilight stopped and turned around, “It’s more than that. I know you feel sorry, and I’m sorry too.” “But,” Rarity said, “You would still have done the same things.” Twilight nodded, “I know that makes me a horrible friend, but...” Rarity quickly closed the distance and embraced Twilight. “It makes you an honorable pony,” she said, “You stood by your beliefs despite what the world was telling you.” Twilight leaned into the hug, “Maybe, but I still feel bad.” Rarity let go and smiled, “Perhaps you should. I still feel bad for my part, and I know that I deserve that guilt.” The two ponies sat in the chairs, and Rarity asked, “You know why I’m comfortable with that?” Twilight smiled and said, “Because we were doing it for Fluttershy.” “Exactly,” Rarity said, “I have said and done things these past weeks that I never thought possible, but there is something about that adorable little pegasus of ours.” Twilight smiled, “You’re right. Would you like some coffee?” “I would love a cup,” Rarity said. She turned to the main room and said, “Spike, I would like you to join us. You deserve an apology as well.” “You’re right,” Twilight said, “He does.” Spike entered the kitchen and said, “I don’t need an apology. I just want you two to be friends again.” Rarity levitated him to a chair and said, “And that is admirable of you, but you are still getting an apology.” Spike sighed, “You two know I already forgave you, right?” “Even so,” Twilight said, “You were there to keep both of us grounded. We had no right to put that burden on you, and I’m so sorry for doing that to you.” Rarity placed a hoof on Spike’s shoulder, “As am I. You showed a great deal of courage keeping us in line.” Spike shook his head, “Not when it counted.” “What do you mean,” Rarity asked. “When the fighting started at the mansion,” Spike said, “I ran and hid. I was useless.” Twilight walked to Spike and hugged him. To his credit, Spike hugged her back. “Spike,” she said, “There are so many things we wish we could have done. Actions we feel we should have done or words we should have said. There’s no point in beating yourself up over it. You did your best, and it kept us focused on what we needed to do.” Twilight lifted his chin with a hoof and said, “That makes you a very special dragon, so don’t you ever call yourself useless again, got it?” “And I completely agree,” Rarity said, “You have done more for us than you realize, and we will not have you harboring such negative feelings for yourself.” Spike smiled, “Thanks, but you two are the ones that need to talk it out. I’ll get back to cleaning the shelves.” He left the two ponies, and they shared a curious look. “I didn’t even ask him to do that,” Twilight said. Rarity smiled, “He’s probably using the work to keep his mind off things.” Twilight nodded, “You might be right, so now what?” “Now, I think we should go to Sugarcube Corner. I suspect Pinkie will be working on Fluttershy’s party, and I would like to lend a hoof.” “That sounds like a great idea,” Twilight said, hopping off her stool. They entered the main room, and Twilight said, “Spike, we’re going to Sugarcube Corner. Would you like to come?” “No, thanks,” Spike called from the basement, “There’s something I need to work on. Have fun.” Twilight began to walk to the basement, but Rarity stopped her. “Let’s leave him be,” she said, “After having to deal with us, he deserves some time to himself.” “Okay,” Twilight said, “I’ll try to make it up to him.” Rarity nodded, “That sounds marvelous. Now. Let’s go.” They left the library and began a leisurely walk toward the bakery. --- “Fluttershy,” Scootaloo asked. “Yes?” Scootaloo looked around at the birds living around Fluttershy’s cottage and asked, “How come I can’t fly?” “That’s because of an injury you suffered when you were born.” Scootaloo’s wings buzzed, and she asked, “What happened?” Fluttershy looked down at her daughter, “When you were born, your wings were damaged. It’s not uncommon since pegasus wings are very delicate, but sometimes they don’t fully heal.” Scootaloo sighed, “Does that mean I’ll never fly?” Fluttershy shook her head, “You should be able to fly, but you’ll be limited.” Scootaloo slumped to the floor, “Great, I’m gonna be stuck on the ground forever.” “Not forever,” Fluttershy said, “When I said that you’ll be limited, I mean that you won’t be able to do the things that a pony like Rainbow Dash can. You’ll be able to get around fine.” She smiled, “And besides, don’t you like spending time with Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle?” “I do like spending time with them,” Scootaloo said. “But they can’t fly,” Fluttershy said, “Maybe it’s good that you’ll have to wait a bit before you can fly. You have more time to spend with your friends.” Scootaloo smiled, “Maybe you’re right. Sweetie Belle can’t really use magic yet, so she probably feels the same way I do.” Fluttershy stroked Scootaloo’s mane, “It’s good to spend time with you.” “Yeah,” Scootaloo said, “I’m glad that I know what happened.” She turned back to the cottage, “But do you have a spare room?” Fluttershy tilted her head in confusion before she realized what Scootaloo was referring to. “Oh my,” she said, “I don’t have another bedroom. You’re right. I’ll have to figure out what to do.” She began to hover in the air and said, “Okay, for tonight, you and the girls will sleep in my bed just like the last time, and I’ll see if I can get a spare cot somewhere.” “Fluttershy,” Scootaloo shouted. The yellow pegasus looked down and asked, “Yes?” Scootaloo smiled, “Calm down. It’ll be okay. For the rest of the weekend, I’ll sleep on the couch.” “But,” Fluttershy said, “You’re my guest.” “No,” Scootaloo said smiling, “I’m your daughter. It’ll be like I’m taking a nap.” She shrugged and added, “Just a nap that’s eight hours long and at night.” Fluttershy dropped to the ground and gently nuzzled Scootaloo. Scootaloo blushed and backed up slightly. “Oh,” Fluttershy said, “I’m sorry.” “It’s okay,” Scootaloo said, “I wasn’t expecting it. That was nice.” She looked to the cottage and said, “Let’s get inside.” Fluttershy nodded, “Okay, I still need to get everything ready for Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle.” They entered the cottage, and Fluttershy was immediately greeted by her affectionate bunny, Angel. Greeted by having a half-eaten carrot launched at her snout. “Oh,” Fluttershy said, “Hello, Angel. I’m sorry I was away for so long.” The white bunny glared at her and tried to toss another carrot. His annoyance was immediately replaced with shock as the original carrot he threw returned back at him with greater velocity. He fell over his cushion and stared daggers at his attacker. “Angel,” Fluttershy called as she turned to Scootaloo. “Why did you do that,” she asked her daughter. Scootaloo looked up, “Why was he a jerk? There’s no reason for him to hit you with a carrot, and I’m not gonna let him.” “It’s just his way,” Fluttershy said. Scootaloo shook her head, “No way. I’ve heard that excuse before. You think when ponies tease me about not being able to fly, they don’t mean anything by it?” She pointed at Angel, “He’s acting like he owns this place, but you’re supposed the be the boss around here.” Angel changed tactics and began to rub his head and tear up. Fluttershy began to walk toward Angel to comfort him, but Scootaloo stopped her. “It’s too late to fake an injury,” she said, “We’re not falling for it.” “Are you really hurt,” Fluttershy asked, “Don’t lie to me.” Angel sighed and shook his head. He had to take the loss, and he laid back down on his cushion. “See,” Scootaloo said, “He was faking it, so you’d get mad at me.” Fluttershy took a deep breath and asked, “Is that true, Angel?” Angel shrugged and nodded. “Well,” Fluttershy said, “You’ll just have to get used to her because she’s going to be spending time here.” She turned to Scootaloo and said, “And I hope you don’t hit him again.” “As long as he doesn’t give me a reason,” Scootaloo said, “I’ll leave him alone.” Angel hopped off his cushion and jumped onto Fluttershy’s back. He pointed a paw at Scootaloo and tilted his head inquisitively. Fluttershy smiled, “You remember, Scootaloo. We discovered a little while ago that she’s my baby. That’s why she’s staying here.” She nodded to Scootaloo and added, “She won’t be living here. Just visiting.” Angel turned to Scootaloo, and he took a deep breath. After a moment, he hopped toward her and stuck out his paw. “Truce,” Scootaloo asked. Angel nodded though the pained look on his face told the whole story. “I’ll take it,” Scootaloo said as she shook his paw. Angel then hopped back to his cushion and picked up the stub of an old carrot. “Let me get that,” Scootaloo said, “It’ll be like a peace offering.” Fluttershy smiled, “That would be very nice. I’ll be upstairs getting the bed ready, so you girls can sleep.” “Okay, mom, I mean Fluttershy,” Scootaloo said. Fluttershy turned around and smiled, “Remember what Ms. Dew said. Don’t rush it. You will always be my baby.” Scootaloo blushed and said, “I’d better get his carrots ready.” She ran into the kitchen, and Angel followed after her. --- Rainbow Dash landed at the front door of Sugarcube Corner. The scent of fresh baked goods always revitalized her. She walked in the front door and waved at Pinkie Pie, who was working at the counter. “Hey, Pinkie,” she said, “Didn’t think they’d put right back to work.” Pinkie smiled, “Hey, Dashie, I wanted to work. It keeps my brain from thinking too much.” “Makes sense,” Rainbow said, “I got nothing going on, and Fluttershy is hanging out with Scootaloo. Need any help with the party?” “I’ll always take a hoof,” Pinkie said, “And you can help, too.” “What,” Rainbow asked but got no response. Pinkie ran to a nearby cupboard and wheeled out her party cannon. She pressed the fuse, and nothing happened. “That’s not right,” Pinkie said. She checked the fuse and tried it again. Again, nothing happened. Rainbow Dash went to look at the cannon barrel, but Pinkie quickly stopped her. “What’s wrong,” Rainbow asked. “Always assume your party cannon is loaded,” she said firmly. She quickly smiled and said, “It’s probably not oiled up. I’ll be right back.” Rainbow Dash looked at the cannon in both wonder and a little fear. She knew that Pinkie knew how to operate it, but she still felt a little uneasy around the cannon. Thankfully, Pinkie returned shortly. “Okay,” Pinkie said, “Change of plans.” She wheeled the cannon back into the closet and said, “Seems like I’m out of my cannon cleaning stuff, so we’re doing this the old-fashioned way.” Rainbow Dash smiled, “I can work with that. It’ll keep my mind busy.” “That’s what I’m saying,” Pinkie said, “Now you grab a box and get to decorating.” Pinkie tossed some boxes of decorations onto her back and began heading upstairs. “Where are you going,” Rainbow asked. “This party’s for Fluttershy,” Pinkie said, “So we’ll have it in my room.” Rainbow smiled, “Good idea. Let’s get going.” She also picked up a box and headed upstairs. --- Applejack returned to the farm and smiled at the sight. This was her home, and there was no place like it. She was about to enter the farmhouse when the sound of somepony clearing their throat stopped her. She turned to see her big brother. “Heya, Mac,” she said. Big Mac nodded, “Feeling better?” Applejack nodded, “Physically, I’m okay.” “That’s good. Think you’ll be ready to get back to work tomorrow?” “I should be,” Applejack said, “Unless I feel sick. Don’t worry. I don’t plan on staying in bed.” Big Mac nodded, “Good.” He turned to walk back to the western field but stopped when Applejack called to him. “Hey, big brother,” she said, “You got a second?” “What you need?” Applejack sighed and said, “I need some advice about Fluttershy. We’re gonna talk soon, and I don’t want to make things worse. I want to show her that I meant that I loved her.” “Well,” Big Mac said, “I don’t think there was ever any doubt about it, but you were trying to take things too fast with her. If it wasn’t from the mess that started all of this, I reckon that it’d been something else that’d blown up.” “You’re probably right,” Applejack said, “You got any ideas?” “Let’s talk in the barn,” Big Mac said. Applejack nodded, and they headed to the old barn. The Apple family took good care of their tools, and the building that stored their tools was important to them. Still, it was getting past time to give the barn a fresh coat of paint. They sat on a hay bale, and Big Mac asked, “Do you even have a plan?” “No,” Applejack said, “Part of me keeps thinking that if I just go with the flow, it’ll turn out fine.” “And how’d that work out for you,” Big Mac asked. Applejack sighed, “Terribly. That’s why I need advice.” Big Mac smiled, “In this case, you let her make the first move. She already knows how you feel about her. Now it’s time for her to do her part, and she’ll do it in her own time.” He leaned closer to his little sister and asked, “Have you forgiven her?” “Forgive,” Applejack asked, “There’s nothing to forgive.” Big Mac shook his head, “You forgave her here.” He tapped Applejack on her head. “But,” he added, “Have you forgiven her here?” He tapped her on the chest. “That’s what matters. You can understand what happened and why, but what about the part of you that made you run away? That made you turn your back on her?” Applejack sighed and leaned back. The past events were replaying in her mind. “I know that she did what she felt she had to,” she said, “But it doesn’t feel that way. It’s complicated, but I think it’ll get easier.” She smiled, “Thanks, big brother. I’ll be sure to let her know that it’ll be up to her.” Big Mac nodded, “Then you best get going.” “Going where,” Applejack asked. “If I know Pinkie Pie,” Big Mac said, “She’ll be getting a party set up right about now.” Applejack jumped off the hay bale and said, “You’re probably right. I’ll start heading over there in case she needs a hoof with anything.” Big Mac nodded, “Go, and have fun. It’s good to have you back.” He left the barn, and Applejack left as well. She smiled as the scents of the farm filled her. She enjoyed the quiet and peaceful sounds of her home. The leaves as they swayed in the gentle breeze, the steady drip of the water pump, and the sound of a pony frantically running toward her. Her eyes snapped open just in time to see Apple Bloom stop right in front of her. “Hey, sis,” she shouted. “Heya, Apple Bloom,” Applejack said, “What hornet’s been chasing you?” Applejack’s baby sister jumped up and down in excitement. “Fluttershy said we can spend the night with her to keep Scootaloo company. Can I go?” “Well,” Applejack said, “I think it’ll be good for both Scootaloo and Fluttershy.” She smiled, “Go ahead, but you best behave yourself. Fluttershy’s been through a real rough patch, so don’t make things hard for her.” Apple Bloom nodded and began to speak, but Applejack stopped her. “I’m not playing,” Applejack said, “If I hear that any of you girls misbehaved, you’ll be regretting it.” “Uh,” Apple Bloom said, “Okay. I’ll be good. What’s wrong?” Applejack sighed, “Don’t worry about it.” “Is it because of what happened,” Apple Bloom asked, “I don’t want to make her sad.” “Yeah,” Applejack said, “I know you’ll be good. Have fun with your friends. I think Pinkie’s throwing a party for Fluttershy.” Apple Bloom hopped up and down, “Have fun.” She turned and ran inside the farmhouse. “And where are you going,” Applejack called after her. “I’m gonna wait for Sweetie Belle,” Apple Bloom shouted, “She’s probably gonna swing by, and then we’ll go to Fluttershy’s.” Applejack smiled and began walking toward Sugarcube Corner. --- “Where is everypony,” Rarity asked as they entered the bakery. Sugarcube Corner was quiet, but the two unicorns expected to see Pinkie Pie decorating. “Hello, there,” Mr. Cake said, “Looking for Pinkie?” “Yes,” Twilight said, “Is she in her room?” Mr. Cake nodded, “She and Rainbow Dash are getting ready for a party.” “Then we shall join them,” Rarity said, and the two unicorns climbed the stairs. “A party will be a nice distraction,” Twilight said. Rarity nodded, “Yes, but we shouldn’t get lost in distractions.” Twilight smiled, “That’s true, but for tonight, let’s have fun.” “That’s a plan I can totally get behind,” Pinkie shouted as she opened her bedroom door. She let the ponies in and shouted, “Dashie, Rarity, and Twilight are here.” “Wha-,” Rainbow said as she lost her balance and nearly fell from a ladder. She hovered as the box of decorations fell to the floor. “Pinkie,” she said, “What’s the big idea?” Pinkie giggled as she picked up the party supplies, “It’s okay, Dashie. I bet they’re here to help.” Twilight nodded, “That’s exactly it. We thought it would help keep our minds off of things.” “Great minds think alike,” Pinkie said, “That’s why Rainbow’s here too.” Rarity levitated a box and began to decorate the room. She hummed a happy tune as she placed banners over the windows. She eventually stumbled upon an open toy chest. “Pinkie,” she said, “Is this where you created your disguise?” Pinkie hopped over and said, “Well, the suit was an old costume, but the badge was from this chest.” Twilight smiled, “That was very clever of you, Pinkie. How’d you come up with it?” “Well,” Pinkie said, “When I left the library the night Fluttershy took off, I tried to follow them in my balloon.” Rainbow stopped decorating and joined them. “We thought she was trying to stop us,” Rainbow said, “So we flew away.” She nudged Pinkie and smiled, “But she told us that she just wanted to help.” “You got that right,” Pinkie said, “Well, Flutters said that I would come up with something wonderful. I just had to be myself. I got home and came up with this idea.” Twilight shook her head and hugged Pinkie. Pinkie smiled but frowned when she heard Twilight crying. “I’m sorry,” Twilight said, “I’m so sorry.” “For what,” Pinkie asked as she hugged her back. She glanced at Rarity and said, “I get that you two have stuff to work out, but you didn’t do anything to me.” Twilight shook her head, “That’s not true. I forced you to pick a side. I had no right to do that.” She looked up when she felt a hoof on her shoulder. Rarity smiled warmly at her and said, “In truth, I think Pinkie was the only one that didn’t pick a side.” Twilight wiped her eyes, “But she went with us to try and capture Fluttershy.” “Don’t say it like that,” Rainbow said, “But she also helped us with supplies.” Pinkie hugged Twilight a little tighter and said, “I wanted to help everypony, and I thought I could help you keep Flutters safe.” Twilight got to her hooves, “And you did a great job, Pinkie. I’m so lucky to have you girls as friends.” Rainbow flew back to the ladder and said, “Okay, enough with being mushy. Let’s finish decorating.” Rarity nodded, “Yes, let’s focus on happier things, but somepony should collect the pony of honor.” “I’ll go,” Twilight said, “I think I need some fresh air.” Pinkie hopped up and down, “Okie dokie, but stop beating yourself up. It all turned out okay.” Twilight knew better than to argue, so she said, “I’ll go get her.” She left Pinkie’s room and nearly bumped into Applejack. “Oh,” Applejack said, “Sorry about that.” Twilight smiled, “Hey, Applejack, lending a hoof with the party?” Applejack nodded, “Sure am. You feeling okay?” Twilight shook her head, “No, I’m happy that everything is okay, but I realized just how badly I acted. I didn’t care about my friends. I just acted as though I knew better than everypony.” “You think you’re the only one,” Applejack asked, “Think about what I did to Fluttershy. We got some bridges to mend, and we can’t get caught up with guilt.” She sighed and said, “Listen, let’s just have fun tonight. We can start making things right tomorrow.” Twilight smiled, “Thanks, Applejack. We have some work to do, but you’re right. Let’s have fun tonight.” She looked at the closed door and said, “They’re setting up the party, and I was going to get Fluttershy. Would you like to go instead?” Applejack thought for a moment and smiled, “I think that’d be a good idea. I’ll go get her.” She turned around and walked down the stairs. Twilight waited for Applejack to leave and sat down. She rested her head against the wall, and the guilt from the past few weeks overwhelmed her. She covered her eyes and wept. --- “I think that should be good enough for three ponies,” Fluttershy said. Scootaloo smiled, “It’s gonna be a good night.” Fluttershy jumped when she heard somepony pound on her door. “I’ll get it,” Scootaloo said, “So you can have time to calm down.” She ran down the stairs and smiled when she saw her two best friends. “Hey girls,” Scootaloo shouted, “You get permission to spend the night?” Apple Bloom shook her head and said, “No. We’re not allowed to play with you anymore.” “What,” Scootaloo asked, “Why?” Apple Bloom grinned and ran inside the cottage, “We’re just fooling you. Of course, we got permission.” “I’m gonna get you two,” Scootaloo said. “Hey, I didn’t do anything,” Sweetie Belle protested, “Blame her, not me.” Apple Bloom hopped on the couch, “Sure, throw me under the carriage, why don’t you?” “Girls,” Fluttershy said, “It’s so good that you’re here.” She said, “We have some lunch prepared. I’ll be right back. Fluttershy stepped into her kitchen, and the CMC sat on the couch. “Girls,” Apple Bloom said. Sweetie Belle leaned over and asked, “What’s up?” Apple Bloom said, “Applejack said that we have to be on our best behavior because of what happened.” Sweetie Belle smiled, “Well, I’m not going back into the Everfree Forest, but we still don’t know what happened.” “We’ll know when Fluttershy tells us,” Scootaloo said, “This is new for both of us.” She glanced back to the kitchen and smiled as Fluttershy hummed a quiet tune. “I don’t want to mess this up,” Scootaloo said. She began to shake with excitement and said, hugging her friends, “I have my mom back.” Her friends returned the hug and immediately jumped off the couch when Fluttershy called them. “Girls,” Fluttershy called, “Please come into the kitchen. I have a snack prepared for you.” The girls ran into the kitchen and hopped onto their chairs. On the table, Fluttershy prepared some baked apples sliced into wedges and topped with brown sugar. “This looks so good,” Sweetie Belle said. Fluttershy smiled, “Well, eat up. This should keep you from being too hungry before dinner.” The girls nodded and began to eat. Scootaloo noticed that her friends were being a little too careful with the food. “Hey,” she said, “I know Applejack said to behave, but don’t go overboard.” “What did Applejack say,” Fluttershy asked. “Oh,” Scootaloo said, blushing, “Was I not supposed to say that?” Apple Bloom shrugged, “Dunno. She didn’t say.” She turned to Fluttershy, “Sis said that we have to be on our best behavior because of... you know.” Fluttershy smiled, “Well, that is very thoughtful of her, but I don’t want you girls to be bored. It’s okay. I know you’re good kids.” The girls smiled and happily ate their lunch. Fluttershy ate her meal slowly, as per usual, but she kept her attention on her young daughter. Her heart hurt at the moments she lost. Scootaloo’s first steps, her first words, even her first attempt at flying. She sighed and wiped her eyes when she used a napkin. Thankfully, the young girls were too engrossed with their food that they didn’t notice. Fluttershy had lost time, but she knew this was a second chance. A quick knock on the door drew the attention of everypony. “Expecting somepony,” Scootaloo asked. Fluttershy shook her head and flew toward the front door. She opened the door and smiled, “Hello, Applejack. What brings you by?” Applejack cleared her throat and said, “Well, as you can imagine, ol’ Pinkie Pie has got a party all set up for you.” She smiled, “It’s a quiet affair up in her room.” Fluttershy smiled, “That sounds lovely, but I don’t know if I can go. I have the girls here.” Applejack nodded, “I get that. Maybe the party should have been here.” “Still,” Fluttershy said, “I don’t want to make Pinkie sad. She helped me so much.” She saw Applejack flinch and said, “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you.” “It’s all right,” Applejack said, “It is what it is. Would you like to head over?” Fluttershy glanced back toward her kitchen and then back to Applejack. She fidgeted slightly and sighed, “I don’t know.” Applejack smiled warmly, “Listen, you promised that we’d have a talk.” She lifted Fluttershy’s chin with a hoof and said, “It ain’t happening now. You pick the time and place. I’m done rushing you.” “Thank you,” Fluttershy said and hugged Applejack. Applejack hugged her back and sighed happily. Fluttershy nodded, “We’ll go. I’ll just tell the girls.” She returned to the kitchen and said, “Girls...” “We know,” Apple Bloom said, “We heard everything.” Fluttershy blushed slightly, “Oh, will you be okay by yourselves?” Scootaloo hopped off her chair, “We’ll be fine, and we promise to behave.” “Good,” Fluttershy said, “So you’re not going into the Everfree Forest?” “There’s a forest,” Scootaloo asked, “Awesome, we’ll go exploring as soon as you leave.” Fluttershy’s eyes went wide, “Oh no, you can’t go...” “Fluttershy,” Scootaloo said, “We remember from last time. Please don’t worry so much.” “I can’t help it,” Fluttershy said, “I don’t want anything to happen to any of you.” Applejack entered the cottage and said, “It’ll be fine since y’all will be good, right?” Apple Bloom nodded and nudged Sweetie Bell to make her nod as well. “Yeah,” Scootaloo said, “We’re not gonna go anywhere, and we have the dinner you made in the fridge. It’ll be fine.” Fluttershy hugged Scootaloo, who immediately hugged her back and said, “Okay, have fun.” “You too,” Scootaloo said. The young girls watched the older ponies walk off and closed the door. “Now what,” Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo shrugged, “We can play some games until dinnertime.” “That’ll work,” Apple Bloom said. They all returned to the kitchen to finish their snacks. “Hey,” Apple Bloom said, “I just thought of something.” “What’s up,” Sweetie Belle asked. “Well,” Apple Bloom said, “If Fluttershy and Applejack get married, that’d make Fluttershy like a sister to me.” “Yeah,” Scootaloo said, not sure where her friend was going with this. Apple Bloom grinned and said, “So if you’re Fluttershy’s daughter, that’d make me your aunt.” Scootaloo stared at Apple Bloom for a moment and said, “Oh, shut up.” The girls erupted in laughter as they finished their apples. --- “It’s nice today,” Fluttershy said. Applejack nodded, “Good walking weather, that’s for sure.” Silence fell as they continued walking, passing the town square, and Fluttershy smiled at the spot where Scootaloo challenged Rainbow Dash to a race. “She did a good job,” she whispered. “What’s that,” Applejack asked. Fluttershy blushed, “Oh, I’m just thinking about the race Scootaloo had with Rainbow. I was so proud of her.” “Yeah,” Applejack said, “I gotta admit I was wrong. Thought the girl was out of her mind challenging Rainbow like that, but she definitely showed her.” “She really did,” Fluttershy said. They soon arrived at Sugarcube Corner, but before they stepped inside, Applejack said, “I meant what I told you. We got time, and you’ll decide when we talk. I ain’t asking for a second chance. I’m just asking to make things right.” Fluttershy smiled, “I know. Thank you for that. We’ll talk soon.” Applejack smiled, “Great. Now let’s get to the party.” They entered the party and saw Twilight leaving the bathroom. Her eyes were still puffy from crying. “Twilight,” Fluttershy said as she ran to the unicorn, “Are you okay?” “I will be,” Twilight said, “Tonight’s for you. Let’s go.” “Go on up,” Applejack said, “We’ll be right behind you.” Fluttershy nodded and walked up the stairs. Twilight started to follow, but Applejack stopped her. “It ain’t good to lie,” she said, “I know you don’t believe a word you just said.” “Please,” Twilight whispered, “Just leave me alone.” Applejack shook her head, “And leave you knowing that you’re hurting? Ain’t happening. I’m done with being a bad friend and worse girlfriend. Don’t let this eat you alive.” Twilight nodded, “I’ll try. I promise that I’ll really try.” “That’s better,” Applejack said, “Now, let’s get to it.” They were halfway up the stairs when they heard Pinkie Pie let out a cheer. “Party’s starting,” Applejack said. They picked up their pace and joined their friends. When Rarity saw Twilight, she gave her a concerned look. Twilight smiled and waved a hoof. Rarity nodded and continued to finish setting up the drinks. “Let’s party,” Pinkie shouted, turning on her record player. The music blasted through her stereo, and she quickly lowered it. “What’s the deal,” Rainbow asked. Pinkie grinned, “This is a Fluttershy Party, Dashie, quiet but not too quiet.” Rainbow laughed and joined Fluttershy by the drinks. “How’s she doing,” she asked. Fluttershy smiled, “She is doing okay. Confused, but okay. I don’t know what to do, Rainbow. I don’t know how to be a mom.” Rainbow laughed, “Being a mom is gonna be so easy for you. You just gotta trust your instincts.” “I imagine the poor girl is having just as difficult a time herself,” Rarity said. “Huh,” Rainbow asked, “What do you mean?” “She means that Scootaloo doesn’t know how to be a daughter,” Fluttershy said, “This is all new to the both of us.” She sighed, “I don’t want to let her down.” “Well, if the way you mother them animal friends of yours is anything to go by,” Applejack said, grabbing a drink, “I’d reckon that you’ll be the perfect mom for the girl.” Pinkie hugged Fluttershy and said, “Yeah, it’ll be great, and you’ll get closer, before you know it, you won’t be able to stand the sight of each other.” Fluttershy giggled, and she got Rainbow’s attention. She waved her over and whispered, “There’s something I want to talk to you about.” Rainbow nodded, “Okay, sure. Let’s step outside.” She turned to the group, “We’ll be right back. It’s nothing important.” They left, and Fluttershy said, “I don’t like lying.” Rainbow waved a dismissive hoof, “I know it’s important. I didn’t want anypony to worry.” “Oh,” Fluttershy said, “Okay. Well, I was thinking, if you’re up for it, I’d like to go visit your mom tomorrow.” Fluttershy tapped on the floor, which for her was the equivalent of a mighty stomp, “I want her to know that I. That I’ll have a very hard time forgiving her.” She shook her head and said, “I’m sorry. I know she’s your mom, and she took such great care of me, but...” Rainbow gave Fluttershy a hug, “I get it, and don’t worry. She’s gonna get an earful from me first.” “I know,” Fluttershy said, “Scootaloo asked to go, too. I want her to come.” “That’s a good idea,” Rainbow said, grinning, “Show mom that she didn’t just hurt you. That’d twist the knife.” “Rainbow Dash,” Fluttershy scolded, “I’m not taking Scootaloo to hurt your mom. I would never use her like that.” Rainbow rolled her eyes, “I know that, but I’m looking forward to seeing the look on the great Dr. Ember Rainbow’s face when she sees your cool daughter.” Fluttershy smiled, “She is cool, isn’t she?” She gently nuzzled Rainbow and said, “Okay, enough being mushy, right? Let’s get inside.” Rainbow nodded, and they returned to the party. --- Dinner was already eaten, and three young girls without proper supervision found themselves dreadfully bored. “That was a bad idea,” Sweetie Bell said, “Why doesn’t Fluttershy have any games or toys?” Scootaloo looked around the living room and sighed. Normally, she’d be bored with her friends, but now she felt bad that she couldn’t keep her friends entertained. “Why would she have toys,” she asked, “She only takes care of animals.” Sweetie Belle shouted, “Hey, we should make a list of things Fluttershy should get now that you’re maybe gonna live here now. Probably.” Apple Bloom poked Scootaloo and asked, “Why don’t you want to live here?” “I have my friends at the orphanage, and Ms. Dew has taken good care of me.” “Yeah,” Sweetie Belle said, “But now you can live with Fluttershy. What’s the real reason?” Scootaloo pawed at the floor, “I’m still surprised. This morning, I was an orphan. Now I have a mom again. I don’t know what to do.” “Okay,” Apple Bloom said, “Don’t worry about it. I know that Fluttershy wants to spend time with you. You two have a lot of catching up to do.” Scootaloo smiled, “Yeah, we got time. Let’s make that list. I think Fluttershy will appreciate it.” “You shouldn’t call her by her name,” Sweetie Belle said, “She’s ‘mom’ not ‘Fluttershy’ to you.” “Oh hush,” Apple Bloom said, “She’ll get to it when she’s ready.” The girls searched the cottage and found some parchment and a quill. They were about to start their extensive list when they were surprised by a knock on the door. “I don’t think Fluttershy was expecting anypony,” Scootaloo said. She pushed a chair to the door and opened the top half a crack. An older pegasus looked down at her and asked, “Is Fluttershy here?” Scootaloo shook her head, “No. She’s in town.” The pegasus sighed, “Then I’ll wait for her to return. Open the door.” Scootaloo shook her head, “No. I can’t let you in.” The pegasus glared at Scootaloo and said, “I know her. Open the door.” “Didn’t you hear me,” Scootaloo asked, “I said no. I don’t know you, so I’m not letting you in.” She quickly turned to Apple Bloom and motioned for the stairs. It took a moment for Apple Bloom to understand before running upstairs to close any open windows. “I will not tell you again,” the pegasus said, “Open this door. Now.” Scootaloo began to close the door, but the pegasus pushed back. The mare was stronger than Scootaloo, but thankfully, they put the chain lock on the door right after Fluttershy left. The mare was surprised, and Scootaloo used her hesitation to force the door closed. “I don’t know who you are,” Scootaloo shouted, “But go away. You’re not getting in.” “Do you honestly think I came all this way from Cloudsdale to harm you,” the pegasus asked, “I need to speak with Fluttershy.” “Then go to town and find her,” Scootaloo said, “But you don’t tell me what to do.” She heard the sound of the pegasus fly away, and she sighed in relief. The sigh was replaced with apprehension when she heard somepony try and open an upstairs window. “Who is that,” Apple Bloom asked. “I don’t know,” Scootaloo said, “Did you find any open windows?” Apple Bloom nodded, “Yeah, I got the ones in the bedroom, and Sweetie Belle got the ones in the bathroom.” Sweetie Belle turned pale, “Did you say bathroom?” “Yeah,” Apple Bloom said, “Why?” “Because I thought you said kitchen.” They turned around when they heard the sound of somepony walking down the stairs. “Should we make a run for it,” Apple Bloom asked. Scootaloo glanced at the door, but instead of being scared, she was mad. This stranger tried to force her way into her home and then broke in when Scootaloo made it clear that she wasn’t welcome. “No,” Scootaloo said, “I’m not gonna let anypony scare me in my own home.” “Scoots,” Apple Bloom said. “I know what I said,” Scootaloo said. They waited and soon saw Dr. Ember Rainbow walk down the stairs. “Now,” she said, “Enough of this foolishness. You will answer my questions. Starting with, what are you doing in Fluttershy’s cottage?” The girls shared a look and walked into the kitchen. “I’m speaking to you,” Ember said. “And we don’t answer to you,” Scootaloo said, “If you want to talk to Fluttershy so bad, sit tight. She’ll be back.” Ember walked into the kitchen and saw three headstrong young girls. “Let’s try this again,” Ember said, “My name is Dr. Ember Rainbow. I’m Rainbow Dash’s mother, and I was Fluttershy’s guardian.” Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle shared a nervous glance but stayed quiet. “You’re Rainbow’s mom,” Scootaloo asked. Ember nodded. Scootaloo glared at her and shouted, “The same pony that told my mom I was dead?” Ember took a step back, “You? You’re Fluttershy’s foal?” “Like you don’t know,” Scootaloo shouted, “You left me at the orphanage and lied to Fluttershy about it. Do you have any idea how much I missed out on because I didn’t have my mom?” Ember shook her head, “There was a reason for what I did, and it was for the best.” “I don’t care what your reasons were,” Scootaloo said, “You stole my mom from me, and you stole her baby from her.” “You don’t understand,” Ember said, “She was not in a position to raise a child.” “Maybe she was,” Apple Bloom said, “But you were her guardian. She would have had you to support her, right?” “Don’t waste your breath,” Scootaloo said, “I don’t know what she wants, but I’m not listening.” Ember grabbed Scootaloo and spun her around. Sweetie Belle pushed her away and shouted, “What do you think you’re doing? You don’t go grabbing ponies like that.” “I’m telling you,” Ember said, “If I had let Fluttershy keep you, she would have resented you because of your father.” This caused Scootaloo’s ears to perk up, “What do you know about my father?” She shook her head, “You know what? I don’t care. Fluttershy promised to tell me everything, so I’ll get it from her.” She began to return to the kitchen but stopped when Ember spoke again. “You know that she’s your mother, but did she tell you that she became a mother because she was raped?” --- Angel Bunny saw all of this from his cushion. He didn’t recognize this pony but knew it was bad news. He slipped out of the cottage and ran as fast as his little bunny legs could carry him to Sugarcube Corner. --- The party was going well, though most ponies would have called it a quiet evening with friends. Fluttershy enjoyed the music, and she would occasionally glance at Applejack. The conversation would have to be sooner than later, and she owed Applejack to be ready. A smile appeared on her lips as she felt she would be ready after her trip to Cloudsdale. Then again, she was supposed to tell Applejack everything after Rainbow returned from the Wonderbolt camp. “There will be time for regret,” Rarity said, “Tonight, just focus on the moment. Be happy with your friends.” Fluttershy nodded and bobbed her head to the music. Her attention was drawn to Pinkie’s impressive stereo, and it didn’t take long for her to notice the pony next to it. Rainbow Dash stood next to the stereo but seemed to be staring at the wall. Fluttershy walked up to her oldest friend and nudged her gently. Rainbow Dash’s head snapped up, and she turned to Fluttershy. She panicked and screamed, “No, stop.” She backed into the stereo and caused the needle to jump off the record and plunging the room in silence. “Rainbow,” Fluttershy said, “What’s wrong?” Rainbow wasn’t listening. She backed away from Fluttershy and kept whispering pleas to be left alone. Fluttershy tried to figure out what was going on until she heard one word that Rainbow whispered. “Grey.” “Oh no,” Fluttershy whispered. The ponies all ran to Rainbow, but Fluttershy got in the way. “Leave her alone,” Fluttershy said. She turned to Rainbow and asked, “Rainbow, talk to me. It’s Fluttershy.” This snapped Rainbow out of her thoughts, her breathing was still ragged, but she seemed to be calming down. “What happened,” Twilight asked, “Rainbow are you all right?” Rainbow stared at her friends for a few tense moments and then broke down. She fell to the floor and began to cry. Fluttershy gently placed a wing over Rainbow. “I can’t stop thinking about it,” Rainbow said, “It keeps playing in my head, and I just want it to go away.” Rarity took a few cautious steps closer to Rainbow and asked, “Is this because of what happened to her?” Fluttershy nodded slowly, “I’m so sorry, Rainbow.” “It’s easy when I’m busy,” Rainbow said as she wept, “But when things get quiet, I can still hear him.” Pinkie Pie walked over to Rainbow and said, “Hey, we’re here for you.” Rainbow looked up at her friends, “I don’t know what to do. I need help.” Fluttershy retracted her wing and hugged Rainbow Dash. The embrace was returned, and fresh cries fell from Rainbow. All the ponies sat nearby and stayed quiet, nopony wanting to shatter the delicate nature of the moment. Eventually, Rainbow managed to control her crying and said, “Sorry. It looks like I ruined your party.” “Shh,” Fluttershy said, “Don’t apologize. You didn’t make me apologize all those years ago when I had nightmares.” “Yeah,” Rainbow said, “I guess not. I’ll be okay.” “Okay,” Applejack said, “Enough of this ‘I’ll be okay’ nonsense.” She sighed and said, “You got to deal with this head-on, just like Twilight and me gotta deal gotta deal with our own problems.” Applejack smiled warmly at Rainbow, “And we ain’t walking this long road alone, you get me? We’re in this together.” Rainbow sniffed back some tears and nodded. “Good,” Applejack said, “Now, I reckon Fluttershy should help you get cleaned up.” Rainbow Dash got to her hooves and, along with Fluttershy, made her way to the door. They stopped when they heard something pound at the bottom of the door. “What could that be,” Pinkie asked, “It’s not Gummy since he’s sleeping.” She opened the door, and Angel Bunny ran inside, but he still took a moment to shoot the pink pony a disapproving glare before stopping before Fluttershy. “Angel,” Fluttershy said, “What’s wrong? Why aren’t you home?” The bunny frantically pantomimed his message, which was lost on all except for Fluttershy. “The girls,” Fluttershy shouted, “I have to go.” “What’s going on,” Rainbow asked. “I don’t know,” Fluttershy said, “Only that something scary happened. I gotta go.” She opened the window and flew towards her cottage as fast as she could. “Well,” Applejack said, “I’m not waiting around here.” She looked down at Angel and said, “Hop on, little guy. We’re going after her.” He hopped onto her back, and the ponies ran down the stairs and straight for the cottage. Rainbow took a deep breath, thankful for the distraction, and flew after Fluttershy. --- “What,” Scootaloo asked, “Is that true?” Ember smiled, “Yes, she was raped by your father, and she killed him.” She shook her head, “Fluttershy hasn’t told you any of this?” “I just found out that she’s my mom,” Scootaloo shouted, “And who are you to judge anypony? You didn’t tell Fluttershy about me.” “I had my reasons,” Ember said. “I had my reasons,” Scootaloo mocked, “Well, maybe Fluttershy had her reasons to wait and tell me.” “It doesn’t matter what she wanted then or now,” Ember said, “She needs to understand that you should never have been revealed to be her daughter.” Scootaloo glared at Ember, “What are you getting out of this? Fluttershy lives here. Why do you care?” “I care,” Ember said, “Because my reputation was tarnished. I care because your mother seems to think I owe her an explanation.” Ember became visibly angry and shouted, “I don’t owe her anything. Everything she has, she owes to me. I gave her a life she would never have had if I hadn’t taken her in. If it weren’t for me, she’d be on the streets of Cloudsdale.” Scootaloo smirked, “She wouldn’t have been alone. I would have been there too.” Ember scoffed, “You really are your father’s daughter.” She turned and sat on the couch, “I’ll wait for Fluttershy, and she will understand that what I did, I did for her.” Scootaloo stared at Ember and still shook with anger. This pony broke into her home and dropped a bombshell Fluttershy was building the courage to talk to her about. This enraged Scootaloo. This was another thing that Ember stole from her. Fluttershy wanted to tell Scootaloo everything. Ember saw how upset Scootaloo became and smiled. She turned her attention to Fluttershy’s front door and said, “Don’t piss me off, young lady. You have no idea who you’re dealing with.” --- Rainbow Dash quickly caught up with Fluttershy. “Hey,” Rainbow began. “Can’t talk,” Fluttershy gasped, “Must fly faster.” Rainbow nodded, and they flew toward the cottage. They arrived and landed at the front door. Fluttershy ran to open it, but Rainbow Dash stopped her. “If it’s something scary,” Rainbow said, “Maybe we should go through a window.” “My baby’s in there,” Fluttershy said. She opened the door but couldn’t open it due to the chain lock. “Scootaloo,” she said, “Please open the door.” “Mom,” Scootaloo shouted and ran toward the door. Fluttershy’s heart skipped a beat when she heard that, but it immediately dropped to her stomach when she heard a familiar voice speak. “Stay where you are,” Ember said. The door opened, and Fluttershy stood face to face with her former guardian. Rainbow Dash pushed past Fluttershy and asked, “Mom, what are you doing here?” She saw how upset and scared the girls were and asked, “What did you do to them?” “Never mind them,” Ember said, “Do you have any idea the embarrassment I have suffered these past few weeks?” She shook her head, “My credibility as a doctor has been questioned. There’s even talk about having any cases I worked on investigated.” Ember glared at Fluttershy, “And it’s all your fault. Why couldn’t you leave well enough alone? She would have been adopted anyway, and if she wasn’t, she’d still be safe.” “She needed her mother,” Fluttershy said, “She needed me.” Scootaloo ran past Ember and hugged Fluttershy. “We locked the door,” she said, “But she got in through a window upstairs.” Fluttershy stared at Ember, “You broke into my home? Why couldn’t you try and find me? You didn’t have to scare children.” “Fluttershy,” Applejack called. She and the rest of the ponies were standing on the stone bridge leading to Fluttershy’s cottage. “Leave them out of this,” Ember said. “Oh,” Rainbow said, “Like you have any say in this.” She grinned, “Funny since we were planning on seeing you tomorrow, but now that you’re here, let’s have that talk.” Rainbow turned around and shouted, “Everypony inside. We gotta talk.” Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash stepped inside to wait for their friends, but Ember tried to close the door. Rainbow held the door, “Don’t even try it. They already know everything, but you have some serious explaining to do.” Scootaloo glared at Ember, “She said that she doesn’t owe you an explanation.” Fluttershy shook her head, “We’ll get to that. Let’s just have a seat, and we will discuss this.” Ember glared at Fluttershy, “There’s nothing to discuss. I did what was right, and you will understand.” The ponies entered the cottage, and Twilight stepped forward, “Good evening Doctor Rainbow. I remember you from the trial. I wish we could meet under friendlier circumstances, but even if you don’t feel that you don’t have to explain yourself, these two do.” “And now I have to justify myself to somepony who couldn’t even keep her composure on the witness stand?” Rarity shook her head, “Cheap attacks do not benefit you. It was difficult for them, but if you prefer somepony who controlled themselves, then I shall happily oblige.” Ember stared at the ponies in front of her. This was not what she wanted, but she eventually sat down. “Very well,” she said, “You wish to talk. We shall have our talk, but this is only so you can understand.” Rainbow stepped forward, but Fluttershy stopped her. Fluttershy shook her head and said, “No. We have to talk. It’s the only.” “Okay,” Rainbow said, “Let’s talk.” Applejack closed the door, and the ponies settled down for a long and difficult discussion.