> Her Smile
>  by Criticul
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Her Smile: Chapter 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Fluttershy had always adored the night. She loved the seclusion and peaceful quiet that night time brought with it. She loved the night time animals, the cool air, and most of all.. the stars! She loved the feeling she got when she looked up at the endless blanket of sparkles in the sky. It gave her joy that she only ever got from her animal friends. So, of course she was ecstatic when she received a royal invitation to the Midnight Star Celebration.This was a grand party hosted by the Princess of the night herself. At midnight, the stars would all shine brighter than any other time of the year, creating for a most wonderful experience for star gazers. Fluttershy squeed in delight as she thought of sharing that wonderful moment with her very best friends. 

Fluttershy gently closed the door to her hut, making sure not to wake Angel Bunny from his slumber. He could be a real grumpy bunny when he's woken up. Fluttershy had made sure all the animals were attended to, and would be okay for the rest of the day. She knew they would fine, she left more than enough food and water, but she didn't like to leave them alone for long. She reassured herself that it was only one night and she would see them again in the morning. For now, she was going to meet Twilight at the library before going to the party. 

She walked down the street towards Twilight's. She knew it would be much easier to fly, but Fluttershy had never been to good of a flyer, that was Rainbow Dash's thing. No, no, no, Fluttershy was perfectly content walking with her hooves flat on the ground, though she did occasionally hover a few feet above the ground. 

She reached the big wooden door of the library and knocked on it on a few times. She stood there, her head down, waiting for Twilight to answer. She heard strange noises coming from inside and raised an eyebrow in curiosity. 

"ah..*clunk* Sp-spike! Quick, grab th-*clank!*...nevermind"

"Sorry Twilight!...hehe say... somepony's at the door, we should probably get that ... don't you think?" 

"Ugh! You just want to get out of this don't you? But fine, go get the door!" 

Fluttershy continued to stand staring at the door in complete confusion. "What is she doing in there..?" she though to herself. She heard several more clanks before Spike finally got to the door. He was sweating profusely and he was breathing like he had just got done running a mile.

"Oh...*pant* hi Fluttershy *pant* " said Spike, bracing himself on the door. 

"Oh.. um... hello Spike. Is Twilight ready?" said Fluttershy, smiling weakly. 

"Uh..." said Spike, dumbfounded as to what Fluttershy was talking about. "Ready for what..?" 

"Oh..you see....The Midnight Star Celebration..." 

"I have no idea what your talking about, but come in, maybe she'll know." 

"A-alright..." Fluttershy was always bashful. She was better around her friends, but she could never seem to shake that nervous nature of hers. 

Spike led her down some stairs into the basement Twilight would sometimes use for experiments, like the one she conducted on Pinkie during her whole "Pinkie Senses" antics.

Twilight was standing over a half exploded book, holding a set of weights in her hooves. "Oh! Fluttershy! What brings you here tonight?" 

"I...um.. I thought we were going to the Midnight Star Celebration?" said Fluttershy, eyeing the destroyed the book. What in the world was Twilight just doing? 

"Oh my! That was tonight? Oh, I'm so sorry Fluttershy, I'd love to go with you, but I have this important experiment I'm doing for my studies with Princess Celestia..." Twilight seemed genuinely sorry for not being able to go. Fluttershy let out a nervous laugh as Twilight started to fumble with the weights she was holding while at the same time trying to hug her.  

"Oh no, it's perfectly fine Twilight..." Fluttershy said, only being half truthful. She had already gone to check on the others, and they all backed out. Twilight was her last hope to take to the party, and she was busy. She was going to have to enjoy the night all by herself. 

"Are you sure Fluttershy? I'd hate for you to have go by yourself.. I could send Spike with you, if you wanted." 

"He-!" Twilight kicked Spike, and smiled politely at Fluttershy. 

"I'm fine Twilight, really. I'm sure you need Spike here with you anyway..." said Fluttershy, with the same polite smile she always carried herself with around her friends. She hugged her friend goodbye, and left to go to the Canterlot Castle for the party. 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Fluttershy was still kind of down about having to go to the Celebration by herself, but at least she was still going. She still had the same love of the stars, she was just going to have to enjoy them by herself, that's all. 

She didn't attend parties often, most of the time when she went she would just stand in a corner by herself until her friends arrived. There were very few people she felt comfortable around. She was standing by the punch bowl, waiting for midnight. She had decided that at around 11:30 she would go and get her spot for the viewing. She smiled as she looked up at the grand clock at the end of the main room. "11:15" she whispered to herself.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Luna had always considered these parties to be a little drab, she never found any interest in talking to the boring Canterlot ponies. They were to stuck up for her taste, she preferred the down to earth ponies from small towns, like Ponyville. They always had more engaging stories than the snobby Canterlot ponies. I mean, seriously, who likes to hear about that time you went to an art museum and the pieces were exquisite. Bleh, it made her sick just thinking of it. She had to get away from all this. 

She looked up at the clock, eyeing the time. "11:15... hmm" she took note that soon the stars would be turning bright, and she didn't want to miss it. "I should probably go outside and find a spot..." She turned away from the large crowd that had assembled around her and waved them away. She was walking towards the door, and didn't want anypony to follow her. 

She took in the freshness of the night air in a big breath, and let out a happy sigh. She had always preferred her night to Celestia's day, but how could she not? Was it not normal for one to love ones own creation more? 

She looked around the garden, hoping to find the perfect spot for the night. She found no such spot, but spotted a small yellow Pegasus lying in the grass by herself. Luna thought she looked lonely, sitting out there all by herself. She quickly recognized her as the shy Pegasus that had helped her fix her voice problems when she went to Ponyville last Nightmare Night. "Maybe I should go over there and keep her company? I think I owe her at least that much for all she did for me.." Luna thought to herself. 

Luna smiled, deciding it would not only be nice, but probably fun. She was just saying that the ponies of Ponyville were so much better than Canterlot, after all. She walked over to the little patch of grass that Fluttershy was lying on and called out to her. "Hello Fluttershy! It's good to see you again.." she said, noticing the nervous expression on the poor Pegasus' face.

"Oh...uh.." Fluttershy started to whisper, she got so nervous around ordinary ponies,and she was now in the presence of a Princess. Originally, Fluttershy was frightened by Luna, but Twilight had taught her otherwise, now she was just horribly nervous around her. "I um...it's good to see you to.." 

"Are you out here to watch the stars tonight?" Luna said warmly, hoping to alleviate at least some of the Pegasus' nervousness. 

"Oh, yes. I love the stars, and I hear tonight is the best night for star gazing.." Fluttershy always found it easier to talk to someone if it was about a topic she enjoyed. Luna smiled as she realized her attempt was successful. 

"Oh, a star gazer eh? I find that there are to few of those these days, Fluttershy" said Luna, still smiling. Luna didn't like the fact that not many ponies appreciated her night as she did. This distaste had caused the Nightmare Moon incident many years back, but that hatred was now just disappointment and sadness.  

"Would you mind if I joined you tonight? The other's can be SO boring..."

Fluttershy looked down, playing with a blade of grass. "Um...if you want.. Princess" Luna giggled at the Pegasus' shy nature. She actually found it to be cute. Luna laid down next to the shy yellow Pegasus, causing a nervous twitch from Fluttershy. "S-sorry Princess. I...I'm just not used to having company other than my friends.." 

"Think nothing of it Fluttershy, I'm sure we'll have lots of fun tonight." Luna giggled slightly, as did Fluttershy. Twilight had told Fluttershy of the incidents at Nightmare Night last year, and how Luna had "doubled her fun" Luna had sure come a long way since than, thought Fluttershy. She's adapted really well. She talks in a normal tone, and even speaks in everyday pony language now.

"So Fluttershy, how long have you been interested in the night sky..?" Luna asked, scooting up against Fluttershy so they could both fit on the blanket they were sharing. 

"Oh...well...since I was a fillie I guess. There's a story behind that... if you want to hear it." said Fluttershy.

"I'd love to hear it!" said Luna. Fluttershy returned Luna's smile and prepared to tell her story.




	
> Her Smile: Chapter 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The story of how Fluttershy became so acquainted with the stars was a somber one indeed. Fluttershy had told nopony else this story, so why she would she tell it to Luna? The same question ran through Fluttershy's mind several times over since she offered. She wasn't even sure why she said it, it just kind of... came out.  

"Oh... actually, I'm not so sure Luna. It's just...it's kind of... a sad story. Are you sure you want to hear it?" She let out the last sentence in nothing more than a small squeak. 	

Luna's face showed traces of confusion as she turned to the skies. "3 minutes.." she whispered. Luna closed her eyes and thought for a moment. Fluttershy was just about to prod Luna to make sure she hadn't fallen asleep when she finally spoke up. "Fluttershy.. when one has lived as long I, you hear many ponies stories: both sad and joyous. I would still like to hear it, if you would allow me." said Luna, smiling lightly at the frail Pegasus. Twas true, Luna had heard, and been present for many tales. She has seen the reactions to all matters of troubles, and could tell that deep down Fluttershy was troubled by something, even to this day. 

Luna's smile seemed to penetrate Fluttershy's very soul. Her chest fluttered and she felt a blush dance across her face. She wasn't used to people caring about what she had to say, most people just assumed that she was, and had always been a nervous wreck. Nopony ever bothered to ask about it because, as she assumed, nopony cared to know. Yet here was Luna, a Princess no less, asking about a simple town pony. Fluttershy felt extremely honored, yet at the same time, now obligated to tell Luna about it. How could she deny a Princess?

"O-of course Luna.." Fluttershy took a deep breath, bracing herself for the telling of the reason she was the way she was, the reason she was so afraid, the reason Fluttershy couldn't get to close to most ponies. All because Luna asked how she came to like the stars...

"W-well.... it started back before I was even in flight school. I was tiny... just a little filly..."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
(Flashback)

It was a warm day in Cloudsdayle and Fluttershy couldn't be happier. Her parents had promised to take her to the cloud park to play with the other fillies preparing to go flight school. The play dates her parents set up were always fun, and never failed to disappoint. 

Fluttershy's parents often had trouble controlling the bouncing ball of energy that was Fluttershy. She was always the first to run into the playpen, yet always the last to leave it. 

Today was no different, she happily bounced to meet her friends at a swing set in the park while her parents walked over to sit on a bench with the other parents. Fluttershy had always wondered what the grown-up's talked about, but was always to busy with her friends to go find out. 

"Oooh! I'm gonna be a secret agent.. Hey everypony, I'll be back later ; I'm gonna to be a detective!" said Fluttershy, hopping off in the direction of her parents, making extra sure not to be seen. She managed to sneak into a fluffy green bush seated behind the bench. 

Fluttershy's father, Sunburst, was a horrible drunk, but thanks to her mother, Linda, she had never known this. Her mother would always take the brunt of his drunken rage. He would frequently scream at Linda, occasionally going as far as to strike her. Linda never did anything about it though, she figured after the murder of his parents he was just using this as an outlet to his emotions. Fluttershy was never around for these outburst thanks to strategic planning by her mother. She promised herself she would never let anything happen to her only daughter. 

Fluttershy had picked the wrong day, the wrong time, the wrong everything, to decide to spy on her parents. Linda didn't know it at the time, but Sunburst had downed a few shots before coming out today. His mood was quickly deteriorating as he argued about Linda becoming a stay at home mom.

"Wh..what the hell? You act like Fluttershy can't watch herself! Hell, she'll be going to Flight school next year for buckin' sake.." Being an alcoholic for many years, Sunburst was able to speak with very little slur at all.

"I just think it would be better if one us stayed home to take proper care of her. I worry about her. I worry about you to you know. You've been drinking again haven't you?" said Linda, a disappointed look on her face.

"And what if I have!? How is it any of your business if I drink?!" Linda opened her mouth to speak up but was interrupted by a loud squeak coming from behind them. Fluttershy was becoming increasingly frightened by her father. He was yelling way louder than she had ever heard him before, and she was frightened. 

"What the fuck was that?" Sunburst turned to the bush behind them, eyeing through it to find the source of the strange sound.

"Just forget it... it was probably just a bird.." said Linda, tears forming in her eyes. The stress of this new argument, and the violent one they had before coming to the park weighing down on her.

"No.. there's some little shit brained br-...ooh, Fluttershy. What the hell are you doing hiding in the bushes? You weren't spying on me and your mother, were you?!" He had pulled her out of the bushes and was now holding her above the ground by her mane.

Fluttershy shook her head, turning her head to avoid looking at her father. She had convinced herself that if she didn't look at him, that she could still hold onto the notion that this wasn't her father, that this was just an impostor, pretending to be him. 

"I think you were..- Look at me!" He snatched her head, jerking it to make her look at him. Fluttershy felt her head jolt. Now that she was looking into his eyes, there was no way she could deny what was really happening. 

Linda saw this and pushed Sunburst, making him drop Fluttershy on the ground. "Don't touch her like that, you pig!" she screamed. The other ponies parent's had long left the scene, hoping to not get involved. Linda hated them for this, how could they be so cowardly as to just ignore the escalating situation? 	

"Oh yeah...? What are you gonna do about it!?" He kicked Fluttershy, just hard enough to knock her over. The kick did very little damage, but it wasn't the physical effect that bothered Linda as much as it was the emotional. 

Linda said nothing, afraid of what her crazed husband would do next. She sat silently, teary eyed, defeated. She wasn't as strong as him. She had learned before that if she just gave up, he would usually stop.

"Nothing to say eh...? Didn't think so. Come on, we're going home then.." He turned to look at Fluttershy. "And when we get there, I'll make sure you get what's comin' to ya'..." Both Fluttershy and Linda cringed at this. 

He grabbed Fluttershy by the mane again and forcefully threw her onto her mothers back and began to drag them back to their cloudtop house. 

- - - - - - - -

When they arrived at the small house on the corner that was their home, Sunburst slammed the door closed behind them, causing Fluttershy to jump. "Now... to deal with you..." He raised his hoof, prepared to strike the yellow Pegasus that very much resembled his wife. "This will teach you to spy you littl- OOF!" 

Linda had decided that she had to stop her husband. She valued the innocence, and protection of her daughter way more than her husband. She knew this time would be different, he wasn't going to just stop and let it be. She struck him with an old baseball bat from Sunburst younger years, which hurt his pride more than anything. 

"Hey! I thought I told you to wait your tur- ugh..I think you broke a rib, fucking bitch. Fine, you can go first.." He turned his attention to his wife, who was now charging him again. He grabbed the bat with his mouth though, and easily over powered her, throwing her to the ground. He threw the bat to the side and began to viciously stomp Linda.

"Hope...you...fucking...learn...your....lesson...this...TIME!" the last stomp unleashed a loud cracking sound. Fluttershy screamed for her father to stop, but he paid no mind. All he could think about was 'the bitch that broke his ribs'. 

"St-stop it! Think about your daughter, think about what your putting her through!" Linda screamed, now fighting back the blood oozing from gashes across her face and hooves.

"Oh...I'm sure she'll be fine...she's just like her mother after all..." He reared back his leg and let it crack into her head. Almost instantly she slumped and fell face first in her own blood. 

He had busted her skull, killing her from a brain hemorrhage. "Oh...shit. Oh well.." Linda's body now laid, unrecognizable in a puddle of crimson blood. Sunburst many stomps had completely distorted her face, leaving it nothing but a red blob. 

Fluttershy had retreated to a corner, now sobbing loudly. She had stopped watching once the beating ended and was now only hearing the altercation. The crunching sound was the worst, it scarred her, leaving the mental imprint of her mothers death deeply embedded in her mind. She started violently shaking and whimpering as fresh tears fell from her face.

"Pl-please. Just let me wake up, let me go back to yesterday. Let this all be a sick dream, and just end it. Please..." 

"What are you pleading for? Ain't no dream darling..." said Sunburst, now advancing towards Fluttershy.

"G-...get back! Your a monster!" she screamed, kicking and flailing her hooves at any part of Sunburst she could reach. He almost found it amusing, making a game out of dodging her. 

"I'm a monster...? I'm a monster?! No...no, the real monster is your mother...I mean, look at how she left you. I thought she was supposed to protect you? What happened to that?" He was mocking her name, getting joy out of torturing her. He looked over at his now dead wife. "Son of a bitch...how could this happen..." Fluttershy whimpered again, trying to crawl towards the door. "Where do you think your going?! This is all your fault!"

He beat her and beat her, despite her constant pleas for him to stop. He was taking out years of agony from his childhood on this poor filly. He stomped, kicked, and swiped at her several times, causing the poor Pegasus to scream in pain. Sunburst figured that the neighbors probably heard, but he didn't care anymore. He had nothing to live for, if he ever did. 

- - - - - - - - - 
listen to this for the next scene (um...if that's okay with you)
Fluttershy had just spent the last hour being abused by her father, having his drunken rage being taken out on her over and over again. After the first hour she had just spaced out, taking whatever he did to her as it came. Even the tears stopped, she had become numb to anything at all. Now she was being flown to a small field on the ground, far away from Cloudsdayle.. 

He landed in the field and dropped Fluttershy next to a tree. He had sobered up a bit, but he knew deep down that after what he had done this was for the best. Not only would he soon be going to jail for murder, he had just put his daughter through the most horrific experience she may ever go through. He knew what he had to do to appeal for his sins.

He sat there next to her, staying quiet for several minutes. She was still numb to emotion and just laid on her back, staring at the sky. It was a clear night, the stars spread out across the sky. You would think living above the clouds that she would often see the stars, but she had never bothered, she was always to busy. For the first time since all this had happened, she had a clear though. There was something she had to know before he left.

"D-...daddy.." Sunburst snapped out of his teary daze and turned to look her in the eyes. He felt disgusted at himself for  even looking at her now. 

"y-yes...Fluttershy." His voice cracked from a combination of the tears and utter shame. 

"...why didn't you kill me...like mommy..?" Sunburst cringed, fresh tears streaming from his eyes. He knew the answer, even through his drunken stupor one thing always kept him from doing to much damage to her. He only prayed that after this was all over she would go to some family that could watch her, and treat her like she deserved to be treated.

"It-...it was your smile. You have.. her smile.... my mothers. It's JUST like hers...it's almost scary how much you two are alike...now that I think about it. She was always there for me. I loved her more than anything... your smile was the last thing I had left of her...."  Fluttershy made no further response, no more than Sunburst expected. She just continued to stare up at the night sky, as if entranced by it.

He let out one final sigh. "I know this means nothing, and I don't expect forgiveness, nor do I deserve it...but I'm sorry Fluttershy..." He clenched his eyes tight, wringing them of tears and walked over to the cliff located about 100 meters away. "I guess...it's time for us to be reunited. It's more than I deserve, but maybe I can get a second glance from your mother...nah... I doubt that.... we won't be going to the same place, after all..." he said, closing his eyes. He shut his wings tight and dove off the cliff, falling towards eminent death. 

Fluttershy, still lying on her back, knew what just happened. She didn't care though, not anymore. She didn't care about anything, she didn't even care if anyone found her. They surely would though, Sunburst made sure to leave her in a frequently visited park, at most she would have to spend the night alone before being found.

She stared at the sky's endless vast blanket of stars, feeling as if her worries were being wiped clean. She felt it easy to get lost in the endless patterns of the night sky. She found solace in them, a light in the shining darkness. They allowed her to escape from her misery, if only for a moment...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"And that's how I got my love of stars...if it wasn't for them, I'm not sure I'd even be here..... they helped me through the night..the worst night.." Fluttershy's story had lasted a lot longer than she expected. She originally just planned to tell her the basics, but she soon found herself pouring her heart out to Luna. She shocked even herself with this.

Luna, no longer caring about the Midnight Star Celebration sat crying silently. Over her immense life she had never been so openly told such a horrific story. She reached a hoof over to wipe the tears from Fluttershy's face. She tried to think of comforting words, but found none. So, she did the only thing she knew to do, she hugged her. She hoped the hug would vocalize every word she wanted to say, and provide the yellow Pegasus with at least a shred of comfort. 

Fluttershy blushed at first, but ended up just resting her head on Luna's shoulder, crying away years of repressed pain. This was the first time she had been so open about it, and it felt good to let it out after all these years. They sat under the stars, the brightest stars of the year, sharing the moment. 

Several minutes later Luna finally thought to check the time. She realized that it was well later than she intended. The party had been over several hours, but they were both to involved in the story to notice. 

"Fluttershy..I'm sorry, but it appears to be really late..." 

"Oh, its quite alright..I don't mind..." 

"No this could be problematic, your not going to be able to get a ride this late at night..." Luna lied, she could very easily order one of her guards fly her home, but she didn't want the night to end. She wanted to keep this emotional connection going...

"So the only option I see is for you to room with me tonight.."

"sh-..shouldn't we talk to Celestia first..?" 

"Nonsense Fluttershy, you forget, I am a Princess as well." Luna was now smiling, grabbing Fluttershy by the hoof.

"Come on, I'll lead you to my room" 

"Oh...okay.." Fluttershy smiled. She thought she looked horrible, her eyes puffy from crying, and her hair disheveled from resting her head on Luna's shoulder. Maybe Luna would let her freshen up a bit, at least? 

	

	
> Her Smile: Chapter 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 3:

Luna led Fluttershy through some empty corridors. The castle seemed strangely empty at night, most of the guards having gone home, save for a few that would keep watch over the Princess’ private chambers. Fluttershy shuddered; they kept the castle rather cold at night.

“L-luna...why is it so cold in here?” Fluttershy had decided to make idle conversation, as their trek to Luna’s room was utterly silent until then.

“hmmm? I’m sorry, I got... distracted” Luna was staring off, down the long, dark, hallway. She was very obviously lost in deep though.

“Um...I asked about how cold it is in here...”Luna looked all about the walls. She noticed that all the torches that usually line the walls had been put out.

“Well as you can see Fluttershy, we extinguish all the torches for the night. You know, to keep the castle from burning down.” Fluttershy giggled softly, not at the joke, but at Luna’s attempt to add humor to what should be, in her mind, a rather simple response.

“W-well...are the rooms at least warm?” Fluttershy’s face grew warm as the image of her and Luna snuggling together under a blanket appeared in her mind. “Why am I thinking of the princess like this?”

If Luna noticed Fluttershy blushing she sure didn’t show it. She simply smiled happily at her and proceeded to answer her question with extra enthusiasm.

“Ahh yes, my bed is most cozy!” exclaimed Luna, seemingly proud of her living accommodations. 

Once again thoughts of her and Luna sharing a bed, locked in an embrace flooded into her psyche. She felt the blush return in a much stronger form than before. Her face becoming a bright scarlet. “eep! I’ve got to stop thinking like that! What would the princess think of me if she knew?”

This time Fluttershy was not able to hide her blush from the Princess. Even in the dim lighting she was practically glowing around the cheeks. She tried to hide her face, but was ultimately unsuccessful. 

“Fluttershy...? What is wrong? Is it something I said?” Luna was bewildered as to why Fluttershy was blushing. She hadn’t said any suggestive or dirty; as far as she knew. She shrugged it off at the Pegasus’ shy nature.

“U-um...n-no Princess...”Fluttershy began to fumble over her hooves, the embarrassment only making her more and more clumsy.

“W-woah Fluttershy...are you okay?” Luna wrapped a hoof around her, trying to keep her stable. This only caused the blush to deepen, threatening to make the poor mare faint. She was still unsure as to why Luna’s touch excited her so. 

“u-um..I...um..yes Princess, I’m fine.” Luna could tell something was bothering Fluttershy but decided it would be best not to pursue the issue. She would surely tell her if it were anything important.

“If you say so... but please, call me Luna. Princess sounds so boring. You could even call me Lulu if it pleases you.” Luna giggled at her last statement. Lulu was a nickname only her sister dared call her. Yet she didn’t mind if Fluttershy called her that, in fact, she actually hoped she did.

“U-um..okay..Lulu” Fluttershy all but whispered the word ‘Lulu’, still nervous about being so informal Princess” Luna grinned, noticing that Fluttershy’s face was still red.

“Maybe she has a fever, though if I didn’t know better, I’d say she’s into me... but that can’t be it. We just met after all...” Luna thought to herself. She smiled widely as she finally approached her room. 

“Ahh, here we are Fluttershy. I hope you like it, my room can be a bit of a mess at times...” Luna opened the door, trace amounts of light filtering through the widening crack of the door. 

Fluttershy gasped as she saw the luxurious room. The room was draped in what appeared to be the finest silks money could buy. Luna had a lone mirror/desk combo over by a window, a dresser on the wall opposite her bed. Her bed was laced with wonderful black, silk sheets, but still seemed to glimmer in the warm emitting from a fireplace Luna had going. Overall the room had a very cozy feel to it, just as Luna had said.

Luna smiled warmly as she noticed how in awe Fluttershy was. “Yes, it is nice isn’t it? I would go as far as to say that it’s...fit for a princess” Luna laughed lightly at her pun, and much to her surprise, so did Fluttershy. She seemed to finally be letting go of that silly blush of hers and returning to her normal self.

Fluttershy noticed her reflection in the mirror and remembered what she was going to ask the Princess before she went and got herself flustered. “Is there anywhere I can go...freshen up?”	

“Why would you want to do that...? You look fine. However, if you feel you must, then there is a bathroom right over there, past the mirror. Do try to be quick though, I’d hate to be all by my lonely self...” Luna had decided that one way to figure out why Fluttershy had blushed earlier would be to tease her and see if she could get a similar reaction. 

Fluttershy did not blush this time though(at least not visibly). She just smiled gently at Luna and nodded. “I-I'll try to be quick.” She turned, tail swishing across Luna’s face, and walked down the dark hallway.

“D-...did she just try to seduce me...maybe I was wrong about her. Nonono, Fluttershy would never be that bold, even if she did have feelings for me. She’s much too shy for a direct move like that...!” Luna continued to argue against herself trying to decide how she felt about the Pegasus, and how Fluttershy felt about her for several minutes. She was in the middle of making an argument for liking Fluttershy when she finally returned. Her jaw almost hit the floor when she saw her.

Fluttershy had done more than just “freshen up”. She had taken the time to clean off her face, and comb her mane just as she originally planned, but she also did something she almost never does...put on makeup. She put on a light layer of blush which complemented her yellow coat perfectly. She had put on light blue eye shadow which made her eyes stand out. 

“Y-you look st-stunning...Fluttershy” Luna was now blushing a bright shade of crimson. If she wasn’t interested in her before, she certainly had a strong attraction to her now. 

Fluttershy giggled. “Thank you, Lulu” 

“What has gotten into her? She’s not even nervous anymore!” Luna bit her lower lip, trying to bury her lust deep in the back of her mind, for now at least.  

“O-oh my. I hope she really likes it, and isn’t just trying to flatter me. I would hate to have gone through all that trouble for nothing...” Fluttershy gave Luna a very seductive smile and pranced over to her. Fluttershy was surely putting on a brave front, though in her mind she was still as nervous as ever.

“I hope I don’t mess this up. Shoot, Fluttershy! You have to stop aiming so high. She’s a princess, and you’re just a scared little Pegasus. Well, it’s to late to go back now, I’ve already dressed up in this ridiculous get-up.”

Fluttershy nuzzled up against Luna’s neck and whispered into her ear. “What do you want to do, Lulu?” She purred Luna’s nickname as she snuggled up against Luna. 

Luna giggled as Fluttershy did this. “You’re so funny, Fluttershy.” Fluttershy felt her heart drop in her chest. She wouldn’t even take her seriously. She put on all this make-up to make herself look nice, and Luna takes it as a joke. 

“She has to be joking, there’s no way she’s trying to come on to me, not the shy little mare I met earlier today.” Luna smiled on the outside, though inside she was being torn over her feelings for Fluttershy. She decided it would best to change the subject before her emotions got the best of her.

“In all seriousness Fluttershy I’ve always wanted to have a sleep over! Even though that’s kind of what we’re doing now...but I’ve heard that there are things you are supposed to do at them!” Luna face lit up as she began to remember her sisters description of a ‘slumber party.’

“u-um...” Fluttershy had returned to her usual, shy self. “what did you have in mind...?”

Luna’s grin widened as she reached into her desk drawer to pull out a small, rolled up piece of parchment. She let it unroll, revealing a long list of activities. 
> Her Smile: Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Pr-princess? That is a very long list. I...um...I don’t think we can do all of that tonight.” Said Fluttershy, eyeing the scroll up and down. Some of the lists contents were rather ludicrous, such as the ‘Pie Eating Contest.’ The list did include several normal sleep over events, such as pillow fights and make-overs. 

Luna giggled. “Ah, yes dearest Fluttershy, of course we can’t. That is why we only select the funnest on the list.” Luna was smiling ear to ear, she had a very devious plan to try and learn how a certain shy mare felt about her. 

Luna’s smiling was starting to make Fluttershy very nervous. “Wh-why is she smiling like that...? What is she thinking...?” 

“Wh-what do you want to do first...princess?” Fluttershy was looking down at a piece of clothing on the floor. She had lost all of the bravado she had gotten from ‘freshening up’ earlier. 

“Hmmmmm” Luna scanned the list trying to find a prime activity to help in her endeavors. She scanned up and down page and stopped on number 238. “Ahh yes, Truth or Dare! I’ve heard so much about this game. Have you ever played it Fluttershy?” 

Fluttershy remembered the time Twilight had suggested throwing another slumber party after the one she, Applejack, and Rarity had. They had all played truth or dare with some...interesting outcomes. By the end of the night Rainbow Dash and Applejack were both tipsy and had started making out, which made for a very awkward next morning. Rarity was completely covered in mud, and Twilight had an interesting dare involving Owlicious. Fluttershy figured it wouldn’t be so bad this time seeing as it was just her and Luna.

“Sure Luna...I’d love to...” Fluttershy peered from behind her flowing pink mane and grinned at the Princess. She enjoyed the idea of having a chance to get to know Luna better.

“Splendid! Let’s began, shall we?” Luna patted her bed, ushering Fluttershy to take a seat next to her.  

Fluttershy hovered over to the bed and sat next to Luna. The bed was extremely soft, as one would imagine a Princess’ bed would be. 

“Umm...you can go first...if you want” 

Luna clapped her hooves together in glee.“Oh splendid! Truth or Dare, Fluttershy?” 

“I’d have to say...truth...” Luna pondered for a moment. She didn’t want to jump straight into the questions she wanted to ask, and this was a good opportunity to learn more about Fluttershy’s past. 

“Hmmm...stop me if this to intrusive... but how did you handle what you went through with your father?” Luna was curious to learn how the Pegasus coped with what she had seen. She realized this wasn’t much of a truth type question, but she figured Fluttershy wouldn’t mind.

Fluttershy raised a hoof to her chin, and broke into deep thought. She thought back to Flight School and remembered Rainbow Dash.

“I guess...it was Rainbow Dash. She really saved me...” Luna was satisfied with this answer, but she wanted to know more. She wanted to know how Rainbow Dash saved her...

“What do you mean she saved you...?” Luna asked, content on learning everything about Fluttershy’s past.

“W-well... she was the only one who be my friend. The rest knew I had moved into an orphanage, and kids being kids, they mocked me. They laughed at how shy I was. I don’t blame them though... they didn’t know.” said Fluttershy, a tinge of sadness in her voice. 

Luna was quite furious at the kids from the story. She hated the idea that children could be so cruel to each other.

“No! It’s never okay to make fun of someone, no matter the case. Those kids were completely in the wrong!” Luna was furious and wanted to punish the children, but that was years ago. She had to accept that Fluttershy had moved on, and maybe even grew from it. 

“It’s perfectly okay Luna...that was years ago. But yeah...Rainbow Dash was the only one who would talk to me. We were so much alike...she was constantly made fun of as well. They used to call her ‘Rainbow Crash’...poor dear.” 

“Oh...well I’m glad there was someone there to comfort you...” Luna rested her hoof on Fluttershy’s shoulder, causing the yellow mare to blush slightly. 

“Pr-princess... If you don’t mind, I’d like to get back on with the game” Luna snapped back into reality at Fluttershy’s words. 

“Oh, right...of course. I’ll go ahead and pick...” Luna thought for a minute and came to a conclusion that Fluttershy wouldn’t be the best at picking dares. She would be to nervous to say any good ones she might come up with. It would be best to go with truth.

“I think I’ll go with truth.” Fluttershy seemed relieved. In all honesty, she hated dares. She would never come up with any good ones. She hated the idea of making someone do something they didn’t really want to.

“Well since you asked about my past... how are you coping with your release from the moon?” Fluttershy asked, trying her best not to look away from Luna in fear. She didn’t want to pry to deeply into a topic Luna didn’t want to talk about.

“Fair question Fluttershy...the truth is I’m not sure I have coped... I have learned to speak in modern times and live as the rest do, but I am still trying to be rid of the loneliness that accompanied being trapped alone on the moon...” 

“But what about your sister...?” Fluttershy empathized with Luna. She too had felt lonely after the loss of her parents. She hated that feeling... she had always felt that way...until she met Dash. Maybe she could be Luna’s Rainbow...?

“I understand completely why she did it but... things just aren’t the same between us anymore...” Fluttershy frowned. She hated the idea of the two sisters not getting along well.

“Besides...that is not the kind of company I was seeking...” It took Fluttershy a moment to realize what Luna was talking about. Once she did though her face turned a deep shade of crimson.

“I-...oh...yes of course. I don’t really have much experience in that kind of company” 

Luna seemed to be taken back at first, but then just giggled slightly. “Surely your kidding. Someone as...beautiful as yourself has to attract all the stallions in town.” 

Fluttershy didn’t think it was possible, but her blush deepened. If you turned off the lights the only thing you would see was the warm glow of her face.

“Th-thank you Luna... but they all avoid me because of my shyness.” 

Luna saw this as good a change as any. “I don’t mind your shyness, in fact, I think it’s rather cute. They don’t know what they’re missing Fluttershy...” She grabbed her hoof in her own and smiled. Just smiled. She wanted to let Fluttershy do the rest. She knew that if she had feelings for her, than she would just have to show it.

Fluttershy was now extremely nervous. Her heart was racing and she began to panic. This is what she had been waiting for, and it was terrifying her. She wanted nothing more than to change the subject right now. 

“U-um...h-how about I...finish the story from early?” Fluttershy closed her eyes. She didn’t understand why she was reacting so strange, she was just touching her hoof. It was probably nothing more than a friendly gesture. 

Luna was disappointed. She was hoping Fluttershy would take the hint, but it would appear she did not. She retracted her hoof, and nodded to Fluttershy. 

“Go ahead then...I’d love to hear how you overcame all that...” Fluttershy smiled. She was disappointed in herself, she felt like she made the Princess uncomfortable with her reaction.

“Well...it started on my first day... I was being picked on by a couple of boys. They apparently thought I was..um..cute. I was way to nervous to talk them though. I became like that after the...you know...” Luna nodded sympathetically, showing she was still intently listening.

“They started to call me names...which really hurt my feelings. I ran off crying and hid in one of the classroom closets. I stayed in there for a few hours, just crying to myself. Finally someone found me. It was Rainbow...” 

Luna began to have thoughts of Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. What if Fluttershy loved her already? She certainly seemed worthy of her affection... She would be sure to ask of that afterwards.

“She saw that I had been crying and helped me off the floor. She seemed so eager to help me... she was the first person in a long time to actually care...” 

“I know that feeling well Fluttershy... I have been waiting for a person like that...” 

Fluttershy nodded, not fully aware of Luna’s true meaning. “She ended up staying with me the rest of the day, talking to me about all sorts of stuff. Mostly flying though...she loved flying...she was like...a light in the darkness. She made me feel happy for the first time since I lost my parents.” 

“It sounds like this Rainbow Dash is an amazing mare...” Luna wanted to know if Fluttershy had any feelings for her. She wouldn’t to try and be with her if she already had feelings for another. 

“Oh yes....we’ve been best friends since then...” Fluttershy was smiling, recalling back to when they would hang out almost everyday. 

“We don’t hang out like we used to. It’s okay though...I understand she’s busy.” 

Luna couldn't contain herself anymore. “Fluttershy...d-do you...have... feelings for her?” 

Luna wholeheartedly expected Fluttershy to break out into another bright blush and then admit her undying love for Rainbow Dash. This didn’t happen though...she simply shook her head and giggled slightly. 

“Oh heavens no...we’re way to good of friends for that. It would way to awkward for us...” Luna tried her best not to smile. She didn’t want Fluttershy to know why she asked that, and smiling when she says no is a dead giveaway. 

“Oh okay... it’s not because she’s a mare though? It’s just because you and her are really good friends?” 

“A-a mare? I...I have never really thought that another mare could be attracted to me... though I wouldn’t say no because she was a mare. You can’t control love...right?” Fluttershy had learned through the many romance novels she read that you can never control who you fall for, mare or stallion.

Luna began to feel more and more confident. Everything up till now says that this could work. “She is into mares, she blushes at your touch, and she’s not in love with someone already...” 

“Um...Princess? Do you think we should...maybe get back to the game. If you want...” 

“Oh right, the game yes. Umm...truth or dare?” 

“Dare...” Luna smiled devilishly as an idea came to her. This was the perfect chance. There were only two ways she could react to what Luna was about to do. 

“I dare you to...kiss me.” Luna continued to grin, waiting for Fluttershy’s response. She watched as her face became the usual shade of red. She seemed to be stumbling around words, trying to think of what to say. Then it happened...she passed out. Her body went limp as she fell over, slumping on Luna’s side.

“Well...I guess I was wrong...there were more than two ways to react...” She picked up Fluttershy using her magic and tucked her under the bed covers. “She’s probably not going to wake up tonight...though she is cute when she’s asleep” Luna giggled. “This wasn’t how I planned this turn out...but it was fun none-the-less.” 

She crawled in bed next to her, and wrapped the blankets tight around the both of them. She rolled over to watch Fluttershy as she slept. She yearned to wrap her hooves around her, to be comforted as she slept. It is one of the many things Luna had always desired on the moon. She put on her best Fluttershy impression, blushing madly at the thought.

She decided she would not get another chance like this, and wrapped her hooves around Fluttershy’s warm body. She nuzzled her face into Fluttershy’s chest and slowly drifted to sleep. It was the most peaceful she had slept in a long time. 
	
> Her Smile: Chapter 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Fluttershy awoke the next morning to a soft, yet persistent nuzzling on her chest. Her eyes were to heavy to open fully, so everything around her was just a blur. She remembered the events from last night but threw them out as just a dream. Surely the Princess would never wish her to do something like that. As for the nuzzling, well she assumed that one of her animal friends got lonely last night and crawled into her bed. She decided to embrace the warm mass back. Fluttershy would have surely recognized the mare as Luna if her senses weren’t dampened from just waking up. She was still very tired, so she decided to just go back to sleep, still holding the warm ball of fuzz in her hooves.

The two continued to cuddle, still sleeping silently. It wasn’t until a small beam of the afternoon sunlight trickled in through the window that Luna finally woke. She smiled, a slight blush developing across her cheeks as she realized who the sets of hooves wrapped around her belonged to. She rolled over to look Fluttershy in the eyes, but was disappointed when she realized she was still sleeping. She leaned over to Fluttershy and kissed her softly on the forehead. 

“I should have realized you would be to shy to tell me...so this is your way of showing it, huh?” she whispered before nuzzling up against her again. Fluttershy slowly began to wake up, the constant nuzzling tickling her. 

“Wh-where am I...?” Fluttershy now realized that she was not back at home in her cottage. She also realized her chest was exceptionally warm. “Nonono, my dream from last night...that couldn’t all be true, could it?” she wondered.

“In my room...” Luna giggled. “Where else would you be?” Luna pressed her face in Fluttershy’s coat, inhaling the sweet scent of vanilla that she so adored.

Fluttershy glanced down to see the dark blue form of Luna snuggled deeply into her chest. “I-...wha....wh-!” Fluttershy clumsily bounced to the edge of the bed until she rolled completely out of it, pulling the bed sheets off with her.

“Fl-fluttershy! What’s wrong dear...?” Luna rolled to the edge of the bed and peered off of it to get a good look at Fluttershy, who was now rubbing the back of her head with her hoof. 

“Pr-princess...? Wh...what happened last night...?” Fluttershy was once again blushing a deep shade of red. Luna didn’t understand why Fluttershy was blushing, she pondered this for a minute before suddenly realizing. 

“Oh....oh! No we didn’t do anything like that... can you not remember last night?” Luna felt her spirits begin to decline as she came to realize that Fluttershy didn’t even realize what she was doing in bed. “She must have just mistaken me for somepony else...yeah that’s it...”

“I...um...no, sorry. I’m sorry for whatever I did last night, I thought I was back in my house, and that you were one of my animal friends... I didn’t mean to put you in a situation like that...” Fluttershy regained her footing on her hooves and sat down on the end of the bed. 

“I imagine you want me to leave now...right?” Luna happily laid down next to Fluttershy, looking deep into her turquoise eyes. 

“Who says I didn’t enjoy it? You’re quite warm you know...” Luna giggled and rested her head on Fluttershy’s lap. She hated the idea of taking a risk like this if she wasn’t completely sure the other mare liked her, but she was tired of waiting. 

“A-are you saying you...you liked being with me?” Fluttershy was becoming more and more nervous. She really liked Luna, but the idea of being with somepony as powerful as a Princess terrified her to no end. 

“Of course I did Fluttershy...you’re amazing. You’re the most compassionate pony I think I’ve ever met...and I just...connect with you.” 

“That’s not what I meant...I meant ea-” Luna put a hoof over Fluttershy’s muzzle, hushing her.

“I know...I like you Fluttershy...I mean really like you.” Luna, closed her eyes, preparing for whatever response she could dream up in her mind. 	

Fluttershy bit her lip. This was exactly what she wanted. She wanted to do what two lovers did in her fancy novels, to just break into a deep, passionate kiss. But there was something bothering her...something she didn’t quite understand.

“Why...why would you like someone like me? I mean...your a princess. You can have pretty much anyone in the entire kingdom...” Fluttershy’s voice broke a few times, as it normally did when she was nervous.

It was true, there wasn’t a person in the kingdom that wouldn’t give anything for the chance to be with Luna. Maybe it was the fact that Fluttershy wasn’t falling head over hooves for her...or maybe it was her past. She was able to connect with Fluttershy on a level she never had before. She stayed quiet for awhile, causing Fluttershy to worry a little. 

“I guess...it’s because you’re like me. You remind me so much of myself... we’ve both had horrors in our past, and have been able to overcome them. I feel close to you...closer than I’ve ever been with anyone else.” 

“R-really...? I felt that too...” She felt herself tear up as she remembered the way they connected during her story. 

Luna sat up, carefully wiping the tears away from Fluttershy’s face. She smiled, a warm, soul peircing smile, and hugged her. 

“Of course.” She pulled her head back to meet her gaze again. “Do you feel the same...perhaps?” 

Fluttershy began to mentally plan her next move. “This is it Fluttershy...time for the cheesy romance novel moment...!” 	

She leaned in towards the moon goddess, pursing her lips. Luna quickly picked up on what Fluttershy was trying to do, and met her halfway. They locked lips, both embracing the moment. Their worried faded away...

Fluttershy pulled away, taking a gasp of air. Luna grinned and nuzzled Fluttershy’s neck.

“I’ll take that as a yes?” Luna giggled, her warm breath tickling Fluttershy slightly. 

Fluttershy simply nodded. Even she was stunned at what she had just done. It was so unlike her and yet...it exhilarated her. She didn’t want it to ever end, but unfortunately breathing is rather important. 

Luna’s grin widened. She turned to look out the window. “It’s still pretty early... I won’t be needed in the throne room for several more hours. What do you say we...have some fun?”

Fluttershy raised her brow. “What do you mean by ‘fun’?” Luna’s grin only widened as she pounced on Fluttershy, pinning her to the bed. 

“I...do you...do you mean what I think you mean?” Luna nodded, and then proceeded to run her tongue across Fluttershy’s neck. “U-um..eep!” Fluttershy squeaked as Luna began nibbling on her ear. Luna, being the Princess, was used to getting almost everything she wanted, and this was not going to be any exception. 

(Aw yeah, I just did that. Went from d'aw, to sad, back to d'aw, to THIS. Hope you liked it xD Oh and sorry it's short, it's just for the next chapter, I felt this was a good stopping point...you'll see next chapter, okay? Geez...stop nagging me you guys...lol jk, love you all!)
> Her Smile: Chapter 6
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Celestia’s sun now rested high in the afternoon sky and Luna was running late for her daily duties. She had to be in the royal court to hear the surplus of grievances her subjects had. She had spent the last hour getting ready, so her time was cut even shorter. She jubilantly skipped over to the sleeping Pegasus, kissed on her on the forehead, and then proceeded to rush out of the room to meet Celestia. 

Luna burst through the huge double doors into the throne room. She saw her sister sitting in one of the two large chairs at the back room, with a tiresome look on her face. Luna bounced over and sat in the other chair. “Good morning, Celestia.” 

Celestia almost instantly grinned as she saw her sister approach. “Ahh, hello Lulu... I suspect you had a good time last night? Or should I say...this morning?” 

Luna turned a deep shade of red, and turned away from her sister. “I don’t know what you are talking about.” 

“You know...you weren’t the only one who ran a little late this morning. I decided to sleep in after last night’s Celebration...and our rooms are right next to each other. I must say, for being so shy she can su-” Luna quickly realized what her sister was going to say and began to panic.

“Tia! You heard...!?” Luna eyes fully widened. She had forgotten how thin the walls were in the castle. “I really need to get a room farther away from hers...I’ll have to see about procuring one” Luna figured if she was going to have Fluttershy over more often, she couldn’t have Celestia over-hearing every time.

Celestia chuckled and put a hoof on Luna’s shoulder. “Yes Lulu, I heard everything” Luna was infuriated by this invasion of privacy.

“Why didn’t you leave!? You listened....the whole time? You perv, Tia!” 

“Aw, Lulu...it’s not my fault you and her were so...loud” Celestia blushed now as well. “It did sound like you were having fun though...and you say I’m the perv! I heard the things you suggested.” Celestia giggled into her hoof.

“Ugh, Why must you tease me so, Tia?” Luna sighed, shaking her head at Celestia. 

“Oh, you know it’s all in good fun, sister. I do hope she makes you happy at least... I’d to hear that she’s just some plaything to you.” Celestia chuckled before pulling Luna into a tight hug.

“Umm...yeah. Very happy...err -- Why are you hugging me Celestia?” While the two sisters were close, it was still unusual for Celestia to be hugging her like this. 

“Oh.... Sorry, I’m happy for you, Lulu. Why don’t you take the day off, go be with her.” Celestia released Luna from the embrace.

“But don’t you need me here?” Luna felt astonished; Celestia had never once offered her a day off.

“Oh please, I handled it by myself for a 1000 years, remember?” Celestia chuckled, but Luna just frowned. She regretted those years and preferred to just forget them.

“Right...I’ll be in my room then...if you need me.” Luna trudged out of the room, leaving behind a very confused Princess. 

“She always has to bring that up...” Luna mumbled to herself. “At least I get to spend the day with Fluttershy. Maybe I can take her out on a date! Ooh that would be most pleasant!” One of the guards aimed a strange look at her as she continued to talk to herself. 

“I wonder if there are any nice restaurants around here...maybe Fluttershy knows a bit about Canterlot! Ohhh...I knew I should have gotten to know the city better...” She examined each door as she roamed the hallway. “Maybe I should know my own castle better...I can’t believe she listened!” 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Fluttershy woke up to an empty bed. It didn't bother her to much though, she knew the Princess had her own royal duties to attend to. She sat up in bed, brushing her tangled mess of a mane out of her eyes. "What time is it?" She yawned, looking for any sign of a clock nearby. She finally spotted one on the table by the door. "12-12:30!? Oh no! My poor animals! They haven't eaten since I attended them since yesterday afternoon! Oh no oh no oh no! I hate to do this to Luna but I really have to go before the animals die of thirst!" She scrambled to her hooves, gathering what few possessions she actually brought with her. She considered leaving a note, but she couldn't find any writing materials nearby. She would just have to write when she got back to Ponyville. She dashed down the hallway, opposite of the direction Luna was coming from. If Fluttershy had waited just a few more minutes she would have ran into Luna in the hall...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Luna entered her room fully expecting to see her new found love snuggled in blankets awaiting her return. "Good morning Fluttershy! I'm back! Oh, and listen...I have this wonderful idea! We co-..." she stopped in her tracks when she didn't see the little Pegasus in bed. "...G-guards...can you come in here?" She just knew the guard would have something for her, Fluttershy would never leave without saying goodbye.

One of the guards stationed outside quietly walked in the room. "Yes, your highness?" 

"Did you see a little Pegasus leave this room? Did she leave a note...did she even say anything?" Luna eyes were glistening. She was hoping for the best, she was praying that Fluttershy just had somewhere to be. Surely she would leave a note, at least tell a guard where she was going.

"No Ma'm, she just left. Actually she kind of ran out. Had all of her stuff with her to. Can I ask who she was my lady?" 

Luna's face distorted. She had come to love the adorable little Pegasus, and she just ran off. No note, no reason. A part of her still wanted to believe that she was in an extreme rush, but there was a small, nagging voice that just wouldn't have that. Luna was heart broken, again. Everyone she got close to always ended up hurting her. Even her beloved sister had hurt her before...

"M'am...are you okay?" The stallion wanted to be more comforting, but as a royal guard it was his duty to remain vigilant, and unwavering. The royal guard never showed emotion.

"Y-yeah...I'm fine, just leave me be." She waved the guard off and laid down in bed, staying at the galaxy based roof. It was normally comforting to stare up at a replica of her most prized creation. All it was doing now was reminding her of last night, of Fluttershy. She rolled over and began to sob. Her weak mental state finally cracking under pressure.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy had waved down a cab and was now on her way back to Ponyville. She felt really bad for leaving Luna like that, but she couldn’t bear the thought of leaving her poor little animal friends alone for any longer. She would write Luna as soon as she finished feeding the animals. “Oh my friends are go-” The entire time she had never once though of her friends. She felt her heart pick up pace in her chest. How would they think of her once they hear that she’s a filly fooler? 

Fluttershy began to pace the cabin, mentally picturing what her friends might say when they would learn of their...relationship. 

“Oh my Fluttershy...that’s simply atrocious! You and...another mare?” 
“Jeez Fluttershy, we didn’t think you were like... that!”
“Ah can’t believe this! Ah’m not sure ah want ya to be around Apple Bloom anymore...”
“OHMYGOSH OHMYGOSH, THAT’S SO GROSS!!!” 
“Oh well...um... I can’t say I approve, but it IS your life...” 

Fluttershy has never been the strongest pony, so it took everything she had to not break down and cry right there in the cabin. She continued to walk mindlessly around the cabin, trying to push her thoughts to those of a more gentle nature.

“Umm...excuse me miss, are you alright back there?” The Pegasus flying the cart became worried as he noticed Fluttershy’s obvious distress. 

“Oh..yes, I’m fine. Thank you for asking...” The Pegasus eyes her curiously, but was in no position to question her. 	

“Alright...we should be landing in about 5 minutes, please have a seat and be ready.” Fluttershy smiled cheerfully at her driver and followed his instructions. She took a seat, clutching her bags. The only thing she didn’t enjoy about flying were the landings. They were to rough for her taste. 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was now late in the day and Fluttershy had finally finished feeding all the little animals. She sighed as she looked at the clock. “4:30... what is wrong with me, it’s never taken me this long before...I’m so frustrated I could just...just...eeeep!” She reared back her hooves and kicked a bucket, resulting in nothing more than a slight wobble. 

Angel Bunny, who was nearby munching on a carrot, laughed hysterically as he watched Fluttershy buck the water filled container. Fluttershy felt bad immediately as she heard the quiet laughter of the mischievous Angel. She didn’t want to Angel Bunny to ‘see such things.’

“Oh Angel Bunny, I’m so sorry. I let my emotions get the better of me...” Angel Bunny gave her a look that said “Seriously?” before hopping off to join his other bunny friends.

Fluttershy grinned as she watched the little hare bounce away. “Aww! He’s such a cute little bunny... I’ll be sure to give him EXTRA treats tomorrow for being so good while I was gone.”

She continued to stare off in no particular direction until the growling of her stomach brought the time into perspective. “Oh my! I really should pay more attention, I haven’t eaten all day...I’ll go right in, cook up a nice meal, and write Luna that letter!” Fluttershy happily skipped towards her small cottage, feeling as if nothing was wrong in the world. 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Luna stamped around the room, kicking a few things as she went. “How could she? She didn’t even say goodbye! UGHH!” Luna spent the last 1000 years on the moon, so her understanding of relationships was far from adequate. She couldn’t even begin to grasp the concept of why Fluttershy would get up and just leave after the magic they had shared not moments before. 

After several minutes of kicking her body finally gave out and she crashed onto her bed. With her energy gone all she could do now was sob. She grabbed a pillow with her mouth and pulled it close to her. She quickly regretted this once she realized what pillow it was. It smelled just like her, like Fluttershy. She hugged it tightly, not caring if her tears soaked the case. To her it was a memento of possibly the greatest love she had ever known.

“Get a hold of yourself Luna, you only shared one night with her. Besides, I’m sure she just really had to be home...” she tried to comfort and reassure herself about Fluttershy, but a little voice in the back of her head didn’t agree. 

“Yeah, it was one night, but you saw how she opened up to you. You even did the same, you can’t tell me you don’t love her. Then she went and broke your heart, the animals would have been fine without her for the day. She didn’t even say goodbye!” 	

“Well yeah... we did have a connection, but that doesn’t mean she loves me back! Maybe I’m just being foalish...” 

“Of course she doesn’t love you! I bet that story wasn’t even true, she probably just wanted you to feel bad for her! You don’t even realise it, but you’ve been used!”

Luna frowned. The more she listened to the voice, the more it made sense to her. She had been played by the Pegasus. 

“What do I do then? Just move on? She has my heart now...I can’t just move on...” 

“You take it back! You can’t just let her hurt you -- us -- like that! Let ME help you. I can fix our heart, we can be whole again. Just let me handle this...you don’t need her, you only need me...” 

Luna lowered her head, letting a single tear fall off of her cheek. “...Go ahead. Do it...” She closed her eyes, preparing for the now inevitable. 

Her body began to glow a bright white as the voice in her head cackled victoriously. Slowly the laughter formed into real life through Luna’s own mouth. After a bright explosion of light, there stood the regal form of the infamous Nightmare Moon. They two were very alike, though Nightmare had a much darker coat. She examined her hooves, as if she herself didn’t believe this was real. 

“Th-...that actually worked? After all the years of my entrapment, I was able to get free due to such a pitiful thing as...heart break! ahahahaha!” Nightmare Moon’s laugh boomed all through out the castle, startling all the guards stationed anywhere near her room. They quickly gathered their forces and advanced to Luna’s room, fearing that she had been attacked while she took her afternoon nap. 

The captain of the guard force waved a hoof at a small force, ordering them to get on either side of the door. Once the platoon was positioned he gave a strong buck, causing the door to fly open. What they saw caused them all to fall silent in fear. Even without her armor, Nightmare Moon was still extremely intimidating. 

“There you are, minions. I have been waiting for you...We have business to discuss.” Nightmare grinned devilishly as she slowly trudged towards them. They all backed up, ramming into each other causing the lot of them to fall flat on their flanks. 

“Where are you going? I just wish to speak with you...” The guard continued to cower in the corner, but eventually the captain gathered enough courage to speak up. 

“H-how are you back so soon? Nopony in your old royal guard thought we would ever live to see you again...” The guard fumbled with hooves, trying to make himself seem as small as possible.

“Do not cower, you have no reason to fear me. Tell me, the other guards...Celestia’s, are they aware of my presence yet?” The guard shook his head. “Good, good. I’m off to Ponyville then, there are some things I have to take of her.” 

The guard was baffled as to why Nightmare Moon would want to go to such a small town. “Wh-why...?” 

“None of your business, whelp!” snapped Nightmare Moon, causing the captain to flinch. “Now, I’m off. I’d like to make it by midnight...Make sure nopony comes in here, my plans shall not be ruined by your incompetence!” 

Nightmare showed off her signature grin, and leaped out of the window diving towards the ground. She was going to release her wings as close to the ground as she could, to avoid being seen. The last thing she needs is Celestia getting involved. All she had to do was fly low, and she would be home free. Soon that annoying little Pegasus would get what’s coming to her! 
> Her Smile: Chapter 7 (The Finale)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Nightmare Moon flew through the night, her mind swarming with questions. Though she would never admit it, Luna and her shared a connection on an emotional level. While this helped Nightmare manipulate Luna into allowing her to return, it also meant that they shared feelings. In this case, to be more specific, Luna’s love for Fluttershy. In truth the little pegasus intrigued Nightmare more than any other pony had before. For the entire night, she had been battling herself over these feelings. Nightmare Moon wanted, more than anything, to reign over all in eternal night; but something was drawing her to Fluttershy’s cottage.

        “There must be a way I can be rid of these idiotic emotions. Perhaps I can just...dispose of her.” Nightmare Moon felt a knot form in her stomach at the thought of harming Fluttershy. “I am a powerful goddess! I shall not be defied by my own body!” Nightmare Moon’s voiced roared through the night sky. Luckily for her, most everypony was already asleep, and her little outburst went unnoticed. 

        “I used to be a powerful goddess. I have been reduced to this whimpering pile of... of...mush.” Nightmare Moon sighed and continued to fly through the chilly sky towards Fluttershy’s home. “I am not sure what I am going to do when I arrive...but for me to succeed this time, something must be done about this inconvenience.”

        She spent the rest of the flight fighting off the barrage of thoughts that continuously bombarded her brain, the majority of them belonging to Luna. Just like Nightmare Moon, even when her personality was suppressed she could still communicate with the host, much to Nightmare Moon’s despair.

        “I should have known you were tricking me... I should have learned my lesson from last time! You used my love for Fluttershy against me! I can’t believe you did this!”  The voice of Luna rang through Nightmare’s head, causing her to chuckle at Luna’s innocence. She honestly believed that Nightmare could change. 

        “Why not? You act as if this should be a shock to you. We both know what my true intentions have always been. I care for you Luna, but you are too soft to handle anything by yourself. With my help you can be something truly great; now please...let me handle this. I am going to pay that pegasus a visit, and afterwards, we will be able to rule Equestria in eternal darkness...just like we have always wanted!” 

        “What!? What do you intend to do to Fluttershy!?” Luna’s voice cracked. She knew exactly what Nightmare Moon intended to do, as their minds are connected. Part of her still hoped she was wrong though.

        Nightmare Moon replied with a slight chuckle and said, “I intend to do what I usually do in these situations...” Luna stayed silent. If she had a body, she would be crying. For now all she could was think about was that she had failed not only herself, but also Fluttershy. She had let Nightmare win, for no reason other than that Fluttershy had left a little early. Luna had not felt as ashamed since Nightmare Moon was first defeated by the Elements of Harmony, and she understood the gravity of her actions. It was slowly tearing her apart. 

        “Do not fret, dear Luna. Everything will be righted soon enough. We are going to be so happy...you and I.” Nightmare Moon’s voice had lost it’s usual intensity and was now saturated with what Luna could only assume was sadness. She had no idea what Nightmare Moon was planning anymore; but her plan was obviously eating at her as well.

        The cottage was now coming into view. Soon this entire debacle would come to an end, one way or another. Nightmare Moon examined the area surrounding the small hut, and concluded that it would be safe to land anywhere within a 100 meter radius. Fluttershy had chosen a very isolated spot to live, presumably to remain close to the animals she cared for.

        Nightmare Moon came in fast and landed hard, a few meters behind the chicken shed, startling a few of it’s occupants that hadn’t fallen asleep yet. The roosters crowed loudly in fear and retreated to the ‘safety’ of the hen house. Nightmare Moon growled but decided not to pursue the loud birds.

        Inside her house Fluttershy had woken up. She had long succeeded in training herself to be woken by any strange sounds coming from the animals, in case something happened to them while she was asleep. “Oh dear, I wonder what has the roosters in an uproar...” Fluttershy slowly lifted herself out of bed, as to avoid waking Angel Bunny from his slumber.

        She timidly made her way to the door, but something made her stop just before pulling it open. “...wait a minute.” She looked around the room, and her eyes came to rest over a table. Their was a small folded up letter laid out across it. “Oh Celestia! I forgot to mail it! Oh, I hope Luna won’t be too upset...” 

        Fluttershy turned away from the letter and exited her home. The first thing she noticed was that tonight was especially cold, almost below freezing; and in the middle of spring. She exhaled and watched her breath condensate before her. “It’s so cold tonight. I should probably make the poor little chickens a fire...” Fluttershy walked over to a stack of firewood and loaded a couple of pieces onto her back. 

        Fluttershy then carefully trotted into her backyard and placed the firewood next to a post. “Don’t worry dears, I’ll have this fire going soon enou-” Fluttershy froze as she heard a soft rustling from behind her. 

        “U-um...who’s there” Fluttershy cautiously wandered over in the direction of the mysterious sounds. “M-Mr. Owl...?” 

        A shrill chuckle could be heard emanating from behind some shrubbery. Fluttershy squealed and galloped towards the chicken coupe. She jumped, head first, into one of hen houses. She was too large to fully fit, so her rear end was sticking out.

        Nightmare Moon emerged from behind the brush, a look of confusion on her face. “She can’t really be that cowardly? I haven’t even shown myself yet...”        

        “Nightmare Moon demands that you come out of hiding, and face me!” Nightmare Moon’s voiced boomed through the night. It demanded the attention of all the all creatures in the area. 

        Fluttershy continued to wiggle, trying to force herself farther into the coupe. After a few seconds of struggling she realized her attempts were useless so she pulled herself out. Fluttershy turned to see the tall, slender form of Nightmare Moon standing in front of her. “Wh-where’s Luna?! Why is Nightmare Moon here!? I don’t know what to do... I could just faint!” 

        Fluttershy began to rock back and forth, mumbling incoherent bits of speech. Slowly she began to lean in one direction until she ended up passing out and slumping over the side of the chicken coupe. Nightmare Moon grinned as she saw this. This was her chance, the perfect chance; all she had to do was fire one spell, and all her troubles would be washed away. Killing Fluttershy would be a win-win for Nightmare. She would be rid of these pesky feelings, and with one less Element of Harmony, the remaining five were powerless. 

        Nightmare Moon charged a dark purple aura on her horn, ready to issue a killing blow to Fluttershy. “Finally, after so many years...nothing will be able to stop me!” Nightmare Moon laughed victoriously, staring at Fluttershy as she lay on the ground. Suddenly images of the previous night began to rush through her mind. 

        Nightmare Moon could see Fluttershy passing out and slumping on Luna’s side, she could see Luna tucking Fluttershy in, and she could feel the happiness Luna experienced as she held Fluttershy. The spell Nightmare was gathering dissipated as she stood there in awe.

        “L-Luna was...happy? With somepony as worthless as...as Fluttershy?” There are only two ponies Nightmare Moon actually cares about, herself and...Luna. “I...I knew she had feelings for her...but that was true happiness...I think, anyway. I cannot honestly say I know the feeling...” Nightmare Moon continued to stare at Fluttershy, watching as her chest slowly rose and fell with her breathing. “I do not understand...Fluttershy offers nothing. No wealth, no power, she wouldn’t even be able to give you heirs. What purpose would she serve?” 

Luna, who had remained quiet in Nightmare’s subconscious, decided now would be the appropriate moment to speak. “Don’t you understand yet? I’m not interested in those things...I’ve always desired something only I can find...something you can’t give me.”  

Nightmare scoffed. “Explain. What can she give you that I cannot?” 

“Fluttershy loves me for who I am. She truly cares about me, even though we’ve only known each other for a short time. You know what else? She adores our sky!” 

“You lie. Nopony cares about you like I do. Also, I highly doubt she enjoys our night. In a thousand years all I have seen these selfish ponies do, is sleep through it...” Nightmare’s voice showed signs of pain. Not physical pain, but the emotional distress caused by years of isolation. 

“I know...I used to think the same. But you saw it for yourself Nightmare...they even have entire festivals dedicated to it now. Things aren’t like they used to be...why can’t you just accept the fact Fluttershy genuinely makes me happy?”  Nightmare Moon almost agreed, then caught herself, chuckling softly.

“Oh Luna...you’ve been close to me too long. My manipulative prowess is beginning to rub off on you.” Luna replied with a slight chuckle of her own.

“Do you understand now? I...I love her.” Nightmare Moon’s eyes widened.

“Is... is this what I’ve been feeling when I look at her? L-Love?”

        “I think so Nightmare...” Nightmare Moon remained silent for several moments, simply observing Fluttershy some more. She lowered her head and she began to weep silently.

        “I know what I have to do Luna. Just know that I’ve always cared about you...and everything I’ve done has always been for you.” Nightmare started to slowly trot towards Fluttershy. Once in range, she levitated the limp pegasus off the ground and onto her back. 
        
        “Let’s get you indoors...” Nightmare Moon sighed as she carried Fluttershy towards the cottage.  She pushed open the door and carelessly walked inside. 

        “So this is the house of a common pony... pitiful.” Nightmare found the nearest place to set Fluttershy down, which happened to be the couch in her living room. She levitated Fluttershy to the couch and laid her down on it, taking care not to disturb the frail pegasus.

        She turned away and headed in the direction of the kitchen. Once there she grabbed a cloth, running cool water through it, and proceeded to return to Fluttershy. 

        “This is ridiculous. I am caring for a peasant....” Nightmare Moon placed the cloth over Fluttershy’s forehead and laid down on the floor beside the couch. She shut her eyes tight, but did not fall asleep. All she could do was wait for Fluttershy to wake up.

        After the best part of an hour of gentle stirring and soft snoring, Fluttershy finally started to come to. Nightmare rose from the floor and took a seat on the couch next to her. 

        Fluttershy rubbed her eyes and looked around. “Huh...how did I get on the couch?” She asked, intended for nopony in particular.

        “I brought you here...” Fluttershy shifted her gaze to the right to see THE Nightmare Moon sitting next to her. 

        “Eep! Wha- Who -When!? Pl-please don’t hurt me!” Fluttershy pleaded for her own safety which caused Nightmare to chuckle a little. Unfortunately this did nothing to soothe the pegasus’ nerves. As she looked into Nightmares eyes her thoughts began to shift to her lover, Luna. 

        “Wh-what did you do with Luna!?” Fluttershy had a sudden rush of courage when it came to the mare she loved.         

        “Calm down foal. I simply wish to speak with you...” Fluttershy’s eyes widened. In all honesty, she was relieved. She knew she stood no chance in a fight against Nightmare Moon.

        “What about...?” 

        “Well...about Luna.” Nightmare Moon sighed and closed her eyes. “She has brought it to my attention that she...well...loves you.” Fluttershy gasped loudly and hid her face behind her hooves.

        Nightmare raised an eyebrow. “Do you not feel the same then...?” 

        “Nonono, I do...it’s just...I’m afraid, is all.” Nightmare raised a brow and spoke lightly.

“What would you have to fear from Luna?” Fluttershy hung her head and turned away from Nightmare.

“I’m not afraid of Luna...I’m afraid...to love somepony else.” Fluttershy has had trouble being close to anypony in more than a friendly way since she witnessed her father kill her mother. Every time she even begins to think of such things her mind is overrun with the images of that day.

“Because of your father...correct?” Nightmare Moon spoke with a cold emptiness that caused Fluttershy to cringe at every word.

“Y-yes...how do you kn-know about that...?” Nightmare chuckled and stood up, and began stretching her wings.

“There is only one more thing I want to ask before I make my decision...could you love Luna? Could you overcome your fear and be with her...?” Fluttershy was taken aback by the question. Why would the infamous Nightmare Moon care about anything such as love?

“I-I....I think so...I really care about her...” stated Fluttershy in a gentle whisper.

Nightmare sat in silence with her eyes closed. After several minutes Fluttershy started to become extremely nervous, fearing the worst. 

“U-um...N-Nightmare...what are you trying to decide...?” Nightmare opened her eyes and stared at the shy pegasus looking back at her.

“I have decided...grab my hoof.” Nightmare extended a hoof whilst remaining emotionless. Fluttershy began to panic, still clueless as to what Nightmare’s intentions really were. She decided to take Nightmare’s hoof anyway, as defying her would lead to no better results.

Once Fluttershy had a firm grip on Nightmare Moon’s hoof a magical aura enveloped the two. Fluttershy gasped, but did not let go. There was a large flash of light and the two vanished from Fluttershy’s living room. 

Fluttershy could feel herself being pulled, though it was like she didn’t have a body. She felt like she had somehow turned into a wisp and was flying through time. Just before it became too much to bear Fluttershy felt herself come crashing down on a wet patch of grass.

“Ugh...wh-where am I...?” Fluttershy thought while examining the surrounding area in an attempt to discover her current location. 

As if by reading her mind, Nightmare Moon answered her question. “This is where I was born... the place where everything I am came to be.” 

        Fluttershy looked around, noting that they were in a large open prairie. Due to her dealings with animals, she knew most landscapes around Ponyville, yet this one was foreign to her. “Where is this place...? I’ve never seen anything like it.” 

        “This is where Luna would go to think when she was a filly. It was during one of these excursions that I came to be...” Nightmare Moon’s voice cracked and showed signs of sorrow. Whatever she was planning was obviously troubling her.

        “H-how did it happen...? If...if I can ask...that is.” Nightmare Moon closed her eyes and a single tear broke over her face.

~Flashback~

        Luna was skipping through a field, stopping every once in awhile to take in the sweet scent of a lily or rose. She often dreamed of soaring through the sky and admiring the beauty of the spring flowers from above, though her wings were not yet strong enough to support her in flight. 

Today had been horrible, but for now, nothing else mattered. All Luna cared about was enjoying the wonderful scenery that now surrounded her. She loved the feeling of the grass tickling her belly as she ran, and she loved the way the petals of the flowers tickled her snout as she smelled them. There was nothing that could compare to how Luna felt when she was in the fields just outside the Everfree Forest, on the opposite side of Ponyville. 

        She would often escape here to be rid of the sadness that plagued her after a heavy fight with her sister. The two sisters disagreed on almost everything. Today was especially bad for the young equine. Celestia had blown up and called her an ‘ignorant little filly’ just because she thought that Equestria should try and make peace with the Zebra nation. She told Luna that she was too little to understand the intricacies involved in pony politics, and should leave it to the grown up ponies. Luna screamed back that she was a grown pony; to which Celestia just laughed. Luna ran out of the castle to retreat to her safe haven, and here she was now, galloping through the fields without a care in Equestria.

        After hours of frolicking through the fields Luna grew drowsy and decided to lay in the shade of the singular oak tree that grew in the center of the prairie. She lay on her back and made herself comfortable on a soft, plush section of grass. 

        It was now dusk and the orange glow of the setting sun washed over Luna as it slowly let way for the moon to rise; Luna’s moon. The moon was one of the few things she could take pride in, yet Celestia never gave her any recognition for it. To Celestia the moon was just a duty, and nothing to awe over. Luna saw it as so much more, to her it was an art form and it deserved to be appreciated as such. The more Luna pondered the subject, the more she began to realize that Celestia never recognized anything she did as important.

        Luna rolled over in the grass and placed her muzzle in her hooves. “Stupid Tia..” Her joy began to fade as thoughts of her sister intruded on her mind. Soon sleep overcame Luna and she drifted into a heavy slumber.
        
        Luna’s dreams were usually filled with pleasant images, such as the field she so enjoyed, but tonight did not bring such peace. As she slept on the open prairie, her mind began to conjure up images of hate, and distrust. 

        Luna found herself in an empty, dark room, with a single set of glowing, cerulean eyes. Slowly they grew in size as they came closer and closer. Soon, she was able to make out the form of the creature whom the eyes belonged to. It was another filly that looked a lot like Luna. Though she had a darker coat, and slits for pupils, yet the resemblance was obvious. 

        “Who are you...?” The other filly said nothing, but continued to walk towards Luna.

“Errr...hello? I’m talking to you.” The creature vanished and reappeared muzzle to muzzle with Luna. “Gah! Don’t do that!” 

“S-sorry...” The other filly looked down at her hooves. The sadness in her voice tugged at Luna’s heart.

“Hey now...don’t worry about it. Say, whats your name...?” Luna smiled at the filly, which seemed to make her a little more confident.

“I...I honestly don’t know. But...um...you can call me Nightmare Moon, if you’d like.” 

Luna smirked, and started to giggle. “Nightmare Moon...that’s such a silly name! Where did you come up with that!?” 

“You gave it to me...” Nightmare said plainly. Luna’s giggling abruptly halted.

“What do you mean I gave it to you? I’ve never met you before now...” It was Nightmare Moon’s turn to giggle now.

“Oh...but you did. You see, you and I are a lot closer than you think...” Luna stared at Nightmare Moon with rapt attention, curious as to what this filly could be talking about.

“Your mind gave birth to me. I was formed from the hate you feel when Celestia mocks you.” Luna burst out in laughter, and literally began to roll on the floor clutching her sides. 

“So you’re not real than?!” Nightmare Moon narrowed her eyes and kicked her hooves.

“Oh...oh no, I’m very much real. Your mind has split into two separate personalities. It may not seem like it now, but I can help you become stronger. I’m the part of you that has remained locked away for so long.”

“Huh? What do you mean? Why would I need to become stronger?” 

        “So you can prove to your sister how strong you really are...” A grin grew across Nightmare Moon’s face. “With my help, you can become what you were always destined to be!” 

        Luna frowned. “You know, I liked you better when you were shy. Anyway, what do you mean what I was destined to be...?”

        “The sole ruler of Equestria, of course.” Luna gasped and backed away from Nightmare Moon.

        “But what about Celestia? I could never rule without her...she’s done so much for Equestria, I couldn’t just push her away.”

        “And why not? She’s pushed you away for years! You don’t need her... you have me now.” 
        
        “Why would I choose you over my own sister?” 

        Nightmare Moon got real close to Luna and began to rub her muzzle on Luna’s. “Because...unlike her, I’ll always love you. I’ll never betray you...I’ll always make you happy.” 
        
~Flashback End~
        
        “You see, I’ve been with Luna since the beginning. I’ve cared for her when nopony else would. I was there on the days she felt like giving up, I was the one who comforted her. I care for Luna, more than I do myself...” Tears were now openly flowing over Nightmare Moon’s face. Fluttershy, who had silently listened through the entire story, was left utterly speechless. Nothing she had ever heard depicted Nightmare Moon as anything more than a vicious tyrant. As she watched the dark alicorn cry, Fluttershy began to feel a deep empathy for her.

        “S-so...this is the field Luna found solace in all those years ago?”
        
        “Yes...it’s where I was created...and where my existence will end...” Fluttershy gasped and clasped her hoof over her mouth in astonishment.

        “Wh-what do you mean...? Is something going to happen to you...? You may not have gone about things the correct way...but I know in your heart you’re a good pony...”

        Nightmare Moon smiled and shook her head. “No Fluttershy, I’m not. I’ve always strived for Luna’s happiness, yet all I ever accomplish is causing her suffering. She doesn’t need me anymore...I’m not sure she ever did.”

        Fluttershy began to cry as well, the somber atmosphere was almost palpable. “D-don’t say that...I know she needed you. You helped her through so much...” 

        “It is...good to hear you say that, though I can not say I believe it.” 

        Fluttershy continued to sob while staring at her hooves. Despite being next to the possibly the most infamous villain in Equestrian history, it still pained her to hear Nightmare Moon talk like this.

        “Fluttershy.” Nightmare Moon said boldly, causing Fluttershy to look up at her. Though her face was still soaked with tears, there was an distinct smile lingering on Nightmare Moon’s lips. “Take good care of Luna, will you?”         

        “I- … I will. But please, tell me; what you are planning to do...?” 

        “Follow me, I wish to return to the tree under which I was born.” Fluttershy nodded her head in agreement. Nightmare Moon returned the nod, and led the way to the huge oak tree in the center of the prairie. 

        Once under it Nightmare Moon turned to face Fluttershy. “The fact that this tree still stands is a miracle in itself. It has been over one thousand years since that day...” 
        
        Fluttershy stared up at the massive tree that loomed over her. She knew much about trees, and understood the magnitude of the tree’s longevity.

        “Fluttershy...please, take a seat over there. I’m about to bring Luna back...for good, this time.” 

(Some More Music To Set The Mood.)

        Nightmare Moon closed her eyes tight and began to conjure images of the mare she had vowed to protect for so many years. It would be the last she would ever get to see her. “Luna... I love you...I always will. But I want you to be happy...and that means I can’t be here anymore. You’ve grown into a wonderful pony, and I’m proud to have been a part of your life.” 

        “I love you too...Nightmare.” Nightmare opened her eyes only to find herself back in the same dark room where she and Luna first met. 

        “L-Luna... I...I-” Luna lightly placed her hoof over Nightmare’s mouth. 

        “I know Nightmare...I know. Please, you don’t have to do this...I don’t know if I can bear the thought of not having you around. You were my first, and for the longest time, only friend. We can live together...like we always have!” 

        Nightmare Moon removed Luna’s hoof from her mouth and smiled. “No we can not, Luna. You deserve happiness...and I am not the one who can give it to you. I’ll always love you, but you must go on without me. You have a wonderful mare out there who loves you, and I mean genuinely loves you. You know I speak the truth. She’ll get you through this...” 

        Luna sniffled and wiped a tear from her eye. “B-but...I’ll miss you. I know that you’ve gone against my wishes at times..but I still care about you.”

        Nightmare Moon rested her head on Luna’s shoulder and nuzzled her face on her. “I’ll miss you too, Lulu.” Luna began to sob, and buried her face into Nightmare’s neck. “Soon, we’ll be one again...” Nightmare Moon began to glow a bright silver. Luna wrapped her hooves around her in a final embrace. As their closing moments slipped by, the two held each other for the final time. Nightmare’s body turned to bright, silver sparkles, which were whisked away on an invisible breeze. 

        Luna was left standing in the expanse of her mind. For the first time in many years, her mind was completely hers, to be shared with nopony else. 

        On the outside, Fluttershy was left in awe as she witnessed Nightmare Moon transform back into Luna in a dazzling show of lights and glimmers. As the final stages of the transformation waned Fluttershy fell back on her haunches in wonderment.

        The first thing Luna felt was the cool breeze blowing through her mane, and the soft scent of lilies. “Wh-what...? I’m back in my body...?” Luna turned to see Fluttershy standing by the tree, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks.

        “Oh Fluttershy... I’m so sorry. I was... so weak. I caused all of this...” 

        Fluttershy casually ambled over to Luna but paused a few hooves short -- staring intensely into her opal eyes, mouth slightly agape. Only their own breaths and heartbeats were audible to the two mares; their eyes remained completely fixated on one another. The yellow pegasus drew a gasp of air and lunged her muzzle into a lock with Luna’s. For the few seconds that it lasted, the kiss drove a surge of ecstasy through the blue alicorn. Any doubts she had about Fluttershy quickly washed away as their soft lips parted. 

        “Luna...you shouldn’t blame yourself” Fluttershy said sweetly while caressing Luna’s cheek. 

        Luna placed her hoof on Fluttershy’s and smiled gently. “Thank you Fluttershy...it means a lot to hear you say that...”

        Fluttershy stroked Luna’s mane away from her face and softly brushed her lips against her forehead. “Something else is bothering you...” Luna frowned and buried her in head Fluttershy’s chest. 

        “It’s Nightmare Moon...I’m going to miss her. Despite everything she’s done, she was still the best friend I’ve ever had.” 

        “I understand Luna...it’s not easy to deal with the loss of someone you love...but...I’m here for you this time. I don’t know if I’ll be as good at helping you through this as Nightmare Moon would, but I-...I want to try, for you.”

        Luna smiled and pressed her muzzle against Fluttershy’s in a passionate kiss. As the two lovers parted they noticed dark leaves were falling all around them. The two mares both looked up to see the leaves of the tree had turned a sickly black and were slowly drifting to the ground.

        Fluttershy gasped and started to panic. “Oh no! What can we do, the poor tree is dying! I-...I’ve never seen anything like this before.” She looked to Luna for answers and noticed the alicorn was now crying silently. “Oh my, don’t cry Luna...we can still save it!” 

        Luna started to chuckle, though tears were streaming from her eyes. “No Fluttershy, we can’t stop this. It’s just...the passing of time.” Luna placed a hoof to her chest and continued to watch the leaves fall. Without shifting her gaze she spoke again. “Do you know what I’ll remember most about Nightmare Moon...?” 

        Fluttershy looked deep into Luna’s eyes, though Luna was still focusing on the leaves. “What...?”

        “Her smile...she hardly ever smiled, but when she did...it was so beautiful. I used to joke with her that she was hiding a treasure from the world by being so angry all the time...” Luna shifted her gaze to meet Fluttershy’s. “It reminds me of yours...soft, and innocent...yet so full of hurt.” 

        “I...I honestly don’t know what to say Luna...” 

        Luna smiled and giggled slightly. “Say nothing then.” Luna advanced towards the base of three and laid down beside it. “Lay with me under the stars. Let this be the first of many wonderful nights between you and I....”

        Fluttershy blushed furiously. The prospect of being with Luna for the rest of her life frightened her, but she loved it at the same time. No other pony had ever made Fluttershy feel the way Luna does. She approached Luna and laid down, snuggling up tight against Luna. Luna responded by wrapping her wing around the blushing pegasus. An ancient poem, written in the tongue of dragons, crossed Luna’s mind as she lay with her love.

In darkness lie turmoil and strife,
But out’f it comes a greater life.
For with thine eyes thou cannot find
Thy jubilance; true love is blind.


~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Editors: Runrun395 & The Meta

Authors Note: Thanks to the two editors, this story wouldn’t be nearly as good as it is without them. If you haven’t already you should go check out Runrun395’s page and read his fic, Slip 'n' Shy; it’s wonderful. As for the ending of this story, I hope you enjoyed it. I also hope you’ll check back in for the sequel I plan to write. Thanks for reading everypony, it’s been fun writing it!