Day One

It was three o'clock in the morning, and Fluttershy had knocked on the door to Rainbow Dash's place of residence. A few moments later, the door swung open, and she found herself face to face with the smiling, confident, ever-scruffy Pegasus pony herself.

"Hi," Fluttershy said softly, stepping into the doorway of Rainbow's abode. She was now a frequent visitor to this place, but every time she walked through the door she took a moment to look around and marvel at its beauty. It was truly miraculous, particularly by moonlight, when little specks of rainbow colored light danced on the walls. I wouldn't have guessed Rainbow could make something this wonderful, she thought. Then, she realized how rude these words sounded inside her head, and scolded herself.

"Hi Fluttershy," said Rainbow in her usual carrying voice. The noise hit Fluttershy's ears hard, and she winced. Rainbow didn't notice. She turned, and took to the sky, with Fluttershy following. She weaved gently between the floating clouds, and around waterfalls of rainbow. Every time she saw one of these, Fluttershy was seized by an urge to fly through it, and cover her face and body in the multicolored liquid. She always resisted, as she didn't want to drip all over her friend's floor.

Fluttershy kept her eyes on Rainbow as they flew. It was clear that flying slow enough to allow Fluttershy to keep up was uncomfortable for her. But she is being a good sport about it. That's one of the great things about Dashie. Rainbow turned back to look at her occasionally.

"Your flying's getting stronger," she said. Fluttershy smiled. Case in point.

"Oh, thank you. I'm feeling much better."

"You know, there's nopony around for miles. You don't have to whisper." Dubious, but willing to try for Rainbow Dash, she tried to speak up.

"Oh… okay." Nope, just as quiet as ever.

"Right, I forgot for a moment. All you know how to do is whisper!" Rainbow laughed, and looked forward to ensure she didn't crash into anything. Fluttershy furrowed her brow, and frowned. She's right, of course. Maybe I should learn to speak up. I remember a year ago, when she tried to teach me to be more assertive. It didn't stick. Well, she tried her best. I suppose I can't blame anypony but myself.

They arrived at their destination a little bit later. Familiar with the proceedings, Fluttershy trotted forwards and sat in the chair that was standing in the middle of the room. She unconsciously rolled some ivy between her back hooves, her body admiring its softness and its unyielding substantiality.

"You're quite an artist. I can't believe you built all this." She looked around as she spoke, taking in the landscape.

"Thanks, but it's nothing much. I just… you know… let my imagination run wild. It's like living in your own fantasies."

"Well, you certainly have a beautiful imagination."

"Well… thanks." Fluttershy glanced back at Rainbow Dash. She was blushing. Fluttershy shifted in her chair, embarrassed. In order to break the tension, she offered one of her hind legs to Rainbow; Wrapped around it was a cast of tightly layered bandage. Rainbow dug her hooves into it and tore it off.

She winced at the sight of the long slash down Fluttershy's leg, but got over her revulsion quickly. It was a familiar sight by now. Turning away, she walked over to the cabinets, which faced the chair. She bent, stuck her head into the one of the cabinets and began looking around. Fluttershy kept her eyes riveted on the back of Rainbow's head, maintaining careful control of her thoughts. I hope she's getting enough sleep. It must be difficult to wake up at three o'clock every other night. But then again, I do it too, and I'm fine. But maybe Rainbow has to be up early for work.

"How are you feeling?" asked Fluttershy. She closed her eyes while she spoke, as Rainbow's tail was flicking up and down quite distractingly.

"Me? I'm fine. Just a little tired."

"Oh," Fluttershy began, all of her worries confirmed. "Well, it you don't want to keep doing this, we can stop. I can take care of myself. I don't want you to lose sleep on my account."

Fluttershy wasn't sure how she felt about the matter. I do love spending time with Dashie. And I could use the help. But on the other hand, spending half an hour every other night flying behind Rainbow, watching Rainbow dig through cabinets, and having Rainbow slither underneath her chair was becoming… trying. I made a commitment. And I can't afford to break it – it wouldn't be right. Rainbow's voice cut off her thoughts.

"No, honestly Fluttershy, I'm fine. I just meant… I have a lot to do at work. I'm happy to help you."

"Okay. I just want to make sure you're not feeling pressured."

"Pressured by you? Of course not! You can barely exert enough pressure to squish a fly!" Fluttershy felt a little jab of hurt inside her stomach. But, she's right, of course. I can't blame her for telling the truth. I probably couldn't crush a fly if I wanted to. A look of gloom settled upon her face, and Rainbow was quick to notice. She added hastily, "Not that I approve of squishing flies, or anything. I like flies." Fluttershy smiled. She thinks I was upset about squishing flies. I suppose that's kind of sweet. You can be so silly, Dashie. She then returned to reality, and scolded herself a third time for the direction her thoughts were taking. Fortunately, Rainbow then found what she was looking for - A small, brown medicine bottle. Rainbow struggled for a minute to get it open – A difficult feat without opposable thumbs – and poured a runny, clear liquid onto Fluttershy's wound. It stung, and Fluttershy let out a little squeak of pain.

"Sorry! Are you okay?" Fluttershy smiled, just a little, at the look of deep concern on Rainbow's face before answering.

"Yes, I'm okay."

"Good. Now…" Rainbow stood, walked over to the cabinet – Close your eyes! – and returned with a roll of bandages. Fluttershy steeled herself – Now came the part she hated. Rainbow stuck the beginning of the roll onto Fluttershy's leg, just below the knee. She slowly wrapped the bandages around Fluttershy's lower leg, protecting the blood-red gash from the elements. She wiggled her body underneath the chair, nearly upturning it many times. She then crawled from between Fluttershy's legs – Fluttershy grimaced as Rainbow's tail brushed her on the way out – and picked up the roll of bandages. And repeat. Being a unicorn would certainly help, thought Fluttershy, who was struggling to keep her wings locked to her sides. I wouldn't even need Rainbow. But of course, if I didn't have wings, this wound might have been much worse.

Eventually, she finished her wrapping job. It was tight, and sealed, and very professional looking. Once Rainbow had spat the roll out of her mouth, she spoke.

"Fluttershy… not that I'm complaining, or anything, but… don't you think it might be time to tell the others?" Fluttershy's heart jumped. She had made the decision not to tell the others a long time ago. This was because if she told the others, they would make her go to a hospital, and if she had to go to a hospital… no, better it remained a secret.

"Oh, no! Now is a worse time than when I first got it! Besides, we must be nearly done, so why stop now?"

"Well, I'm not exactly qualified to be doing this. I'm no doctor."

"I'm a doctor. I think that means I'm allowed to give you permission. But… if it's bothering you, then I guess I could find somepony else." They stared at each other for a minute. Then, Rainbow cracked.

"No. If you refuse to get real medical help, I'll do it. But I really think you should. I mean, wouldn't somepony take care of your animals while you were at the hospital?" Fluttershy had an answer ready.

"Maybe, but they wouldn't be able to handle it. I'm the only one who knows how to prepare Angel Bunny's salad." Rainbow looked exasperated. Good, that means she bought it.

"Alright, fine. But I think it would be for your own good." This continuing tone of condescension was wearing on her ability to be polite. I've made my decision. I'm an adult. I can decide things for myself.

"I've made my decision. I'm an adult. I can decide things for myself." For the first time that night, she spoke without thinking, and so her words echoed her thoughts. She realized what she had said a moment after saying it. Worried that she had offended Rainbow, she waited nervously for a response. Rainbow looked surprised, but not hurt, and she backed down after that.

"Well, I think you're done." Rainbow stood, and Fluttershy followed suit.

"Okay, thanks a lot Rainbow. You're really helping me out." She was relieved to find that submissiveness had returned to her voice. I hope I didn't upset her. Ooh, I really hope I didn't upset her.

"Yeah, well… no problem." The two ponies stood, and looked each other in the eyes. In Rainbow's eyes, Fluttershy saw something more than her usual intense flare. There was a tranquil satisfaction in her eyes, which gave a knowing context to her otherwise juvenile grin. Rainbow shifted position slightly, bringing her face slightly nearer Fluttershy's. She felt a shiver run down her spine, and her wings began to stir. Oh dear...

She broke the connection. Looking away, Fluttershy strode to the end of the platform and jumped off. Rainbow was quick to follow her, and together, they flew back to the front door. Before walking out, she looked over her shoulder. Rainbow was standing a few feet behind her, smiling happily.

"Bye Fluttershy!" she said, waving a hoof.

"Good-bye, Rainbow." She walked out the door, and dived off the edge of the cloud, with a quite un-Fluttershy-ish haste. She flew back home as quickly as she could. Ooh, Fluttershy. You're such a loudmouth. Rainbow is waking up at three in the morning every other night, just as a favor to you. And how do you repay her? You go and snap at her. She touched down on her doorstep after only a few minutes of flying, still cursing herself internally.

She opened the door and walked inside briskly. Well, at least I can transfer some of the energy Rainbow gave me onto my next meeting. She proceeded into the bathroom, and checked her condition in the mirror. Fluttershy wasn't really the mirror-gazing type, but it was a necessity when there was a chance you were covered in blood. Nothing. The medicine's definitely working them. It'll probably be fully healed soon. After this brief pit stop in her bathroom, Fluttershy walked right back out the door again. The night's adventures were not yet done. She got a running start, and then jumped into the air. It didn't matter that she could barely see. She knew where she was going. It was a very quick flight, and she landed in Applejack's orchard a few minutes later.

This too was a beautiful place. The trees expanded so far around that it was as if there wasn't any civilization for miles. The smell greatly appealed to Fluttershy – it was whole and natural. The cool grass was wonderfully relaxing on her wings, which had been put to more use than they were used to tonight. It even sounded beautiful – a light wind was rustling through the leaves. The noise was loud, but it was not intrusive; it was a calming soundtrack to her thoughts.

"Fluttershy?" Said a low, calm voice. She looked around, and found herself face to face with Big Macintosh. Had it been anybody else, she would have screamed in shock. Instead, she just smiled gently.

"Hi, Mac." Fluttershy was glad to see he had made it – there had been some fear that he wouldn't be able to escape Applejack's supervision. "How did getting out of the house go?"

"Oh, it was fine. AJ was too tired to put up much of a fight." They both laughed for a moment, then trailed off. They stood there, smiling in silence for a moment. They were both fine-tuning their next comments. Big Mac finished first.

"Are you sure you don't want me to help you with your leg?" He asked. Fluttershy, who had not been expecting this, thought carefully about what she was going to say before she said.

"No, I'm sorry Big Mac. But I asked Rainbow to do it before I knew you were available. If I just tell her to stop now, won't she wonder why?"

"I suppose you're right. I'm just not sure it's good for you to be spending so much time with her." Fluttershy's heart quickened.

"Whyever not?" she asked. That was the risk of being with Big Mac – he was disturbingly insightful sometimes.

"Well, it's just… I think she's a fine pony, but… she's not the most polite. I just hope she's not getting on your nerves."

"Oh! Well, no, of course not. We're friends."

"Okay. I'll let you decide. I trust you to decide for yourself." Fluttershy smiled at this. Big Mac – 1. Dashie – 0. As much as she liked Rainbow, it was satisfying to know that Big Mac was still the wiser pony. It was satisfying to know she'd made the right choice.

"Thank you. That means a lot to me." They smiled at each other again. I made the right choice. I know I did. Because Big Mac… he's perfect for me. Quiet, clever, sensitive… this was meant to be.

They didn't say much else to each other that night.

Day Two

Fluttershy woke up groggily next morning. She didn't open her eyes. Where am I? She couldn't remember whether or not she'd come home before drifting off. I hope I'm at home. What if Applejack found me and Big Mac asleep in the orchard? After a moment's consideration, she decided that the cool softness pressing against her cheek was not grass. She cracked an eye open, and sure enough, she was lying in her own bed. She took her time getting up, still half-asleep as she ate and dressed. Fluttershy only owned three articles of clothing. All of them were dresses and two of them had been acquired in the last few months. She was getting rather tired of them, but they were a necessity; she needed something with which to hide her back legs. By the time she stepped out of the house, she had fully awoken, and was ready to confront the day.

She walked through the town, keeping her destination in mind. Rarity's. It was a beautiful day, and she was in no hurry as she meandered down the streets of Ponyville. As she passed by Twilight's tree, she was accosted by Twilight herself. They exchanged pleasantries, completely at ease. However, what had promised to be an innocent chat presented an unwelcome surprise.

"I was up really late last night, and I saw you flying outside my window. What were you doing?"

"Oh!" Fluttershy was taken aback. This had come completely out of the blue; nobody had noticed her nighttime excursions before then, and she had settled into the idea that nobody ever would. However, she had an excuse prepared. "Well, I was making a late-night visit to a berry patch. Angel woke me up and told me he wasn't feeling well, and berries always make him feel better when he's under the weather."

"I see... and you didn't have any at your house?" Twilight sounded uncomfortably suspicious, but Fluttershy kept a cool head.

"Oh no, I was all out."

"Okay, just wondering. I'll see you later!" Fluttershy watched her as she turned and strode off into town. It's not a big deal, I suppose. But it was such a nice day…. Fluttershy began to walk once again. Despite this disconcerting encounter with Twilight, the prospect of what awaited her at Rarity's was enough to keep her cheerful. However, twenty minutes later, another distraction presented itself.

"Hi Fluttershy," came a voice from behind her. She turned, and found that Rainbow Dash had come out of absolutely nowhere and was standing behind her, smiling. I guess she's picking up tips from Pinkie – I'll never understand how that pony gets around so fast.

"Hi Rainbow, how are you?"

"I'm fine, thanks. I need to talk to you."

"About what?"

"We've been found out. Twilight saw you flying out last night."

"I know, she told me. She asked where I was going this morning."

"And what did you tell her?"

"I just made something up about getting berries for Angel." This wasn't exactly true – she had had the berry story in her pocket for a long time. But she didn't want to brag.

"I see. Well, I had a visit this morning."

"Oh, from whom?"

"Spitfire of the Wonderbolts!" This meant absolutely nothing to Fluttershy, but she could tell by Rainbow's tone that it was a big deal.

"Oh, congratulations!"

"I'm invited to a two week stay at a flying camp out in the country. But, I'd have to leave in six days to get there."

"Oh… I see. So what are you going to do?" Fluttershy was ready to argue if Rainbow brought up the hospital again, but she didn't have to.

"Well, I've done some thinking. I've decided it might be good if Twilight took over my duties."

"Twilight? Are you sure?" Fluttershy trusted Twilight, but she wouldn't have been her first choice. But of course, I can't volunteer Big Mac – it'd look suspicious if he were willing to devote every other night to my wellbeing. I suppose not many ponies would do that. But Big Mac would! She thought these words proudly, but quickly realized the problem with them. Of course, Rainbow would too. Rainbow has been devoting every other night to me for the last few months. On a conscious level, this made her uneasy. But Big Mac's a better fit for me! It's just sense! However, a primal, uncontrollable beast in her stomach purred at the idea. All that work… all those nights… just for me.

"I don't think she'd turn you in if you asked her not to." Wha? She shook herself back into reality, and re-joined the conversation.

"Well. If you think it'd work, I'll do it. I trust you."

"Good, I'll ask her right now. See ya Fluttershy!"

"Good-bye." Rainbow trotted off, looking satisfied. Fluttershy just felt confused. When she finally turned onto the road that led to Carousel boutique, Fluttershy could not have been happier to get out of town. These two encounters had already used up more energy than she had been planning on spending all day. But her heart lifted slightly as she saw a little red dot in the distance. As she got closer, it became larger and more defined, until it was clear beyond a doubt who it was. Big Mac was waiting for her.

"Howdy, Fluttershy."

"Hi."

"So, where do you want to go first? Applejack'll be working the farm, so we don't have to worry about her seeing us. And we can tell anypony who asks that we're having a business meeting."

"A business meeting? I'm a doctor and you're a farmer. What business would we have together?" Big Mac waved this small problem aside.

"Maybe you need my apples for an antidote of some sort. It don' matter, nopony will think too much about it." Fluttershy wasn't quite convinced, but she trusted Big Mac enough to go along with it.

"Well," she said, smiling to show her acceptance of the plan, "there's supposed to be a very nice breakfast place, just off town square."

The rest of her day was spent in Big Mac's company. They toured Ponyville, visiting any shops that caught their eye. It really was remarkable how at ease she found herself with Big Mac. She barely had to screen her words – she had nothing to hide from him. Well, almost nothing. While Fluttershy was enjoying herself immensely, there was another reason that she had decided to arrange a day out with Big Mac.

Look at us; we can almost read each other's thoughts. It's like we have… a connection. I don't have any connection with… Rainbow Dash. I've got no clue what she's going to do next. That's justification enough.

But maybe, the fact that I need to justify at all means there's something there. After all, I've chosen Big Mac. There's no going back. And yet, I keep thinking about her!

By the time the sun had begun to set, and they were walking back to Fluttershy's house together, she had had a simply wonderful day; but she was no nearer peace of mind than when she had woken up. I need proof! Proof that I'm not going to break Big Mac's heart. Proof that I know my own feelings. I need proof… that I'm a good pony.

"I had lovely time, Fluttershy." Fluttershy looked up, and saw Big Mac standing next to her. She then looked around, and realized she was home.

"I had a lovely time too," she said truthfully.

"Well, I should get back home. Applejack and the others'll want to know I'm okay."

"Okay. Goodnight, Mac."

"Goodnight." He leaned over, and gave Fluttershy a gentle kiss on the cheek. Then he turned, and trotted off into the night.

Day Three

The next day, Fluttershy didn't have much to do. This suited her; she needed to think. She spent a good amount of time simply lying on her bed, ignoring the pangs of hunger she felt. She was immersed in her own thoughts, letting her subconscious choose the images that appeared in her head. Her primary goal in all this pondering was deciding who she should be together with; but this didn't really work out. When you give your subconscious full reign, you gain access to a window that looks straight into your heart; however, you don't always see what you want to see. Eventually, she stopped trying, and simply let her memories wash over her.

She was a young filly, wondering around an earth hospital. Her mother was inside one of the rooms; she never found out why. She had been told to "stay right there, and don't you dare wander off!", and so wandering off became the rebellious pony's first priority. She looked around, dazzled by the bright whiteness all around her. She rounded a corner, and then another corner, becoming completely lost without noticing. Then, she heard shouts; inaudible, but clearly angry. She trotted in the direction of the noise, seized with curiosity. Finally, she rounded another corner, and found two ponies standing there. One was just a filly, about the same age as Fluttershy herself. She was a Pegasus with a light grey coat, and gentle-blonde hair. The other was a full grown earth pony. He had a mad look in his eye, and there was a bead of saliva accumulating at the corner of his mouth.

"Well?" he shouted at the little Pegasus. She just backed away, looking terrified. The pony raised a hoof, and struck the filly across her face. She was flipped over backwards, and her head hit the wall hard as she fell. She ceased to move. The large pony looked, first to his right, then to his left, directly at Fluttershy. The normally brave and confident Pegasus quailed under his gaze. He took a step toward her. She tried to run, but her legs seemed locked in place. As a wave of panic broke over her, a procession of medical ponies raced around the corner, and one of them tackled him. He struggled under the attack, and managed to shake the security pony off. Fluttershy did not wait around to see what happened next. As she tore away, tears in her eyes, she took one final look back; and what she saw then would haunt her forever. The large, insane pony being pinned by a guard, and the little grey and yellow filly stirring. She woke slowly, and tried to stand, but she collapsed. And as the doctors crowded around her, her eyes began to drift lazily….

It was a few months back, and she was visiting the hospital for the second time in her life. This was the reason that she had become a doctor- so that she could treat herself. But she was feeling sick, and none of her normal cures were having any effect. So, she flew. She touched down a few feet away from the hospital doors, but before she could get any closer, they slammed open. A light blue mare with a long, grey mane backed out slowly. Several medical ponies walked out after her, but they kept their distance, looking unsure of what to do next. Similarly unsure, Fluttershy stepped backwards to avoid bumping into the light blue pony. At the sound of her footsteps, the pony whipped around. With a familiar rush of panic, Fluttershy realized that she was holding a knife in her mouth.

"Um…" Fluttershy said, shrinking under her gaze. The pony growled as they stared at each other, and Fluttershy took a step backwards. "Um…"

The pony leapt forwards, and knocked Fluttershy over. Her face hit the ground hard, and she felt a rush of pain in her leg. She wanted to scream, but her mouth was full of dirt. She struggled to her feet, and flew into the air. She didn't look back, even when a deafening scream pierced the air. As she flew away, she caught a few words being spoken by the medical ponies: 'Unconscious', 'Asylum', and 'Poison'. Her mind was befuddled by the pain, and she could only process one thought: get away. She didn't even notice the trail of blood she was leaving as she flew.

It was four nights ago, and she was lying in bed after having returned from her bi-nightly visit. Her eyes were shut tight. Her thoughts were of Rainbow Dash…

Fluttershy opened her eyes. She wasn't sure what time it was. She didn't really care. She might have fallen asleep at some point – she couldn't tell. Her thoughts had been so vivid that it was as if she was there again; or maybe she had just been dreaming.

Eventually, she mustered the strength to tilt her head and check the clock. It was nearly two-thirty A.M. I guess I did fall asleep. Well, it's nearly time for my meeting with Dashie. She stood, and shook herself to ensure that she had fully returned to reality. Then, she walked out the door, and took to the skies. When she arrived at Rainbow's, it was exactly 3:00. She knocked on the door. There was no response. She knocked again – still nothing. Did she forget? Rainbow had never forgotten a meeting yet, so Fluttershy knocked one more time on the door. Still nothing. Well, she pondered, I suppose I could just fly in. After all, nothing's stopping me, and I need that medicine. Since nopony other than her closest friends knew exactly where she lived, Rainbow had no cause to fear burglary. Alright, I'll do it.

Without Rainbow, the journey to that specific spot of cloud was both boring and confusing. Several times, she got lost and had to search for a rainbow stream that she recognized. But eventually, she spotted little floating room, and landed lightly inside it. She picked out the medicine bottle, and – with some difficulty – tore the cast off. After applying the antidote to herself with a little whimper, the tricky part arrived. While having Rainbow Dash nuzzling her leg for five minutes was pretty bad, she much preferred it to applying the bandage herself. She had to perform fantastic gymnastic feats in order to reach her injury, and wrap the roll around it. Ponies were simply not built for this kind of task.

Finally, she managed to seal it off. It wasn't as professional as Dash's, but it would have to do. She put her materials away, and jumped into the air. The trip back home was relatively quick, and she fell asleep as soon as she touched her bed. Although she had spent almost the entire last twenty-four hours lying in bed, it had felt like a long day.

Day Four

Fluttershy stood in front of the barn door, not sure what to do. Should I knock first? Or should I just walk in? I suppose I should knock, but what if she's asleep? I guess I'll just open the door slowly. After this important decision was made, she stepped up to the door and pushed it open. Looking inside, she found Applejack lying on a makeshift bed, her family crowded around her. Applejack looked better than she had imagined, but still terribly worse for wear.

Fortunately, she seemed to be perfectly conscious, and when she spoke, it was with her regular, strong voice.

"Hi Fluttershy," she said with a smile. "Oh, my…." Despite her good spirits, Fluttershy was unnerved to see her friend in such a sorry state. "Um, hi. I heard that you got hurt. What happened?"

"Sorry, Fluttershy, but I can't tell you." Fluttershy glanced at Big Mac, who shook his head.

"She hasn't told me, either. She hasn't told any of us."

"Ooh…" Fluttershy was worried. Partially for the wellbeing of her friend, but also because Applejack's predicament was quite similar to her own – and she didn't like how it was turning out. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, I'm just fine. A doctor came here and patched me up." This made Fluttershy think; Maybe I could get a doctor to come over to my place. Then I wouldn't have to go to the hospital! But, it's different with me. Mine needs treatment every two days – and it's a long way from my place to the hospital.

"Well, I'm glad you're feeling fine. I can only stop by for a minute, but I just wanted to check up on you. Sorry I can't stay longer." In actuality, she really didn't have anything to do, but she didn't to have a talk with Big Mac. Applejack was visibly disappointed, but she let Fluttershy go without a fuss. On her way out, she stared hard at Big Mac, who understood.

"Er… Applejack, I think I'd better go too. Somepony has to work the apple fields, you know." Applejack didn't look fooled, but she decided not to pick a fight.

"So," said Fluttershy once she and Big Mac had stepped outside the barn. "Did she really not tell you?"

"Nope. She wouldn't say a word."

"It looks like… It looks like she was attacked." Big Mac nodded solemnly.

"It does look like that, don'it?"

"But… who would do that? Why would anypony do that?"

"I haven't a clue," said Big Mac sadly. "But whoever it is, apparently they got her to promise not to tell."

They took a little stroll around the orchard, throwing out ideas. But nothing they thought of was remotely realistic. About an hour later, they still had nothing.

"Okay," said Big Mac. "Who else do we know? It mighta been that mail pony, Ditzy Doo." Fluttershy bit her lip. He has no idea.

"No. It wasn't her. She's not right in the head, but she isn't dangerous. She's a sweet mare." Big Mac was defeated.

"Well, I got nothin' else."

"Me neither. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. I'm going to go back and see how Applejack is." He nodded.

"I'll come with ya."

When they got back to the barn, nopony was there except for Applejack, who was fast asleep.

"Huh," said Big Mac. They musta gone in."

"I suppose so. We're on our own."

"…out of your minds." Wha? Fluttershy looked around, searching for the speaker. To her horror, it was Applejack who was talking. But she wasn't looking at them. Confused, Fluttershy craned her neck to see what was going on. Granny Smith was knitting in a corner, while Applebloom paced around the room. I fell asleep! She looked to her side, and saw Big Mac stirring. How long have I been out? She didn't have much time to think, however, as at that moment a loud knocking reverberated through the barn. Big Mac was the first to react.

"Who is it?" he called sleepily.

"It's Rainbow Dash. I want to talk to Applejack." Big Mac turned to look at Applejack.

"Should I let her in?" he whispered.

"Of course! She's my friend." He nodded, and opened the door. Rainbow stepped into the barn, and gaped at what was surely an interesting-looking scene.

"Applejack! What happened?"

"I can't tell you."

"She hasn't told any of us," said Big Mac. At this point, Rainbow seemed to notice Applejack's entourage.

"Oh, hi Fluttershy."

"Hi. Somepony told me that Applejack was hurt, and I rushed over here." Applejack looked at her questioningly. Understanding her confusion, she added, "The news has been spreading rather fast." In truth, she had been told of Applejack's injury by Big Mac, who had sent a letter to her house. Upon reading it, she had rushed over to the barn.

"But Applejack! You have to tell us what happened! That looks serious." Typical Rainbow.

"I ain't saying nothing. I made a promise," said Applejack resolutely.

"To whom?"

"I can't tell you that either."

"Applejack," said Big Mac. "You need to go to the hospital." Taken by surprise, Applejack looked at him.

"No, really Big Mac, I don't have to. I'll be fine."

"You have to."

"I can still work! I'm still as good an apple-bucker as ever!"

"You really should go, Applejack," said Fluttershy. She appreciated the irony of the situation, but she spoke only out of concern for Applejack. She could feel Rainbow's eyes on her, and did her best to ignore them. I'm doing the right thing. I'm a good pony; I'm doing the right thing.

"I'm calling the hospital right now." Big Mac's voice was final. Applejack could tell she had no choice. Clever. He made sure she couldn't say no by asking her in front of everypony. I'll have to be careful not to let him do that to me. Oh, what am I talking about? I trust Big Mac; he wouldn't do that to me. He promised. He would never lie about something this important. But I would, wouldn't I? How many times have I lied these last few days? But when I do it, it's for good causes. But then again, I'm sure he thinks taking me the hospital is a good cause. Is it? I just have to decide!

Fluttershy was brought back to reality by the impression of eyes on the back her head. She looked around, and found Rainbow staring at her. Once Fluttershy met her gaze, she gave a little nod towards the door. They made their excuses and filed out. A few minutes later, they were in the middle of the town square, walking towards Fluttershy's house.

"Twilight can't do it, Rarity can't do it, Applejack can't do it, Pinkie definitely can't do it; I don't know what to tell you. We're out of options." Rainbow spoke agitatedly.

"So you really can't get any of them?" Guilt tripping was a specialty of Fluttershy's, and she put every ounce of skill she had into this sentence. It seemed to pay off.

"Fine," said Rainbow resignedly. "I'll give it one more day. If I can find Twilight tomorrow, I'll ask her. But if I can't, you're going to the hospital."

"Alright. Whatever it takes."

"Besides, now you'll have Applejack for company."

"Yes, I suppose that will be nice. Thank you very much Rainbow."

"It's nothing. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Good bye!"

Well, I'm definitely not going to the hospital. So if she can't get a hold of Twilight, I'll need to take matters into my own hooves. Fluttershy barely paid attention to her surroundings as she entered her house, checked on her animals, climbed up a flight of stairs and slid into bed. I could steal the medicine and run off until the wound closes. I suppose I won't have a choice. It was at this moment that she regretted ever turning to Rainbow Dash. These meetings are more trouble than they're worth.

Fluttershy was perfectly capable of applying the antidote to herself – with some difficulty, yes, but able nonetheless. However, after she had first received the injury, she was bleeding, panicking and flying toward the nearest friend she had: Rainbow Dash. She had arrived at Rainbow's doorstep covered in blood, and on the brink of consciousness. Rainbow had taken her in, laid her down, and flew to the library to find every book on antidotes it contained. After a gruesome analysis, it was determined that the knife had been coated with chimera venom, which was a deadly but slow-acting poison. The antidote, which Fluttershy naturally owned, was quickly retrieved and applied. Once it was certain that she was not at death's door, she and Rainbow arranged their system: every two nights, the antidote would need to be re-applied. So every two nights, they would meet at Rainbow Dash's for re-application.

Fluttershy slept uneasily that night.

Day Five

When Fluttershy awoke, her mind was completely blank. I suppose that's a good thing. Maybe it means my mind is at peace. Or maybe it means the conflict has reached a standstill.

She slid out of bed, and immediately wondered why. It's not like I have anything to do. I suppose I might as well just stay in bed. However, fate once again made a mockery of her plans by sending someone to ring at the doorbell. I guess not, then. She walked over to the door, and pulled it open.

"I brought you a letter!" proclaimed the happy, sing-song voice of Ditzy Doo the mail pony. Fluttershy smiled at her. Sometimes I envy that girl. She gets so much joy out of giving people letters. It's really very touching.

"Thank you, Ditzy Doo." She took the letter in her hooves, and put it aside. They sat there, staring at each other for a moment.

"Well?" asked Ditzy, "aren't you gonna open it?"

"Oh! Okay." Fluttershy generally used a letter opener for this type of thing, but she didn't want to leave Ditzy hanging, so she tore it open with her teeth. Dumping its contents on the floor, she cast the envelope aside.

"It's… an invitation to birthday party." Ditzy looked expectantly at Fluttershy, who was unsure of what to say.

"Well?" she asked.

"Um… it's very nice."

"Yay!" Ditzy was overjoyed. "I'll see you later! Bye!" Before Fluttershy could respond, Ditzy flew off. Fluttershy sighed, and closed the door.

Look at her, she thought to heself as she plodded back to her bed. Look how happy she is. Maybe it was a good thing that she was attacked. After all, she's got a comfortable job, good friends. Maybe she's happier this way than she would have been normally. But Fluttershy shook her head, scolding herself. Look at you. Trying to defend yourself. You stood by and watched as a little filly was beaten, and all you can say is, 'maybe it's better this way?' Pathetic. Worthless.

Ever since that day, she had been unable to enter a hospital without breaking down completely. She acknowledged it herself, and she acknowledged that it was irrational. But she couldn't control it. She had no place in those labyrinthine white corridors.

The rest of the day was spent mostly in her room. Every once in a while, she stepped outside to see if anyone was looking for her. Nobody was. Since she spent about a half an hour every other night gallivanting about with Rainbow Dash, she needed a bit more sleep than usual. She dozed off at one point, and awoke a little bit later with absolutely no idea of what time it was. She was rather bored, but she couldn't think of anything to do that appealed to her. I don't want to go outside. I don't want to read a book. I don't want to eat anything. I suppose I'll just lie here until inspiration strikes.

But it never did, and she suspected that it never would. Eventually, she just burrowed under her covers and stopped moving. Sleep came easily, hindered only by a slight twinge of pain in her leg…

After a few hours of sleep, Fluttershy was awoken by several sharp, firm knocks on her door. She sat up groggily, and another series of knocks pounded insistently. After gently sliding out of bed and navigating her way down a set of spiral stairs, she interrupted the third burst of knocking by pulling the door ajar. Standing in the entranceway was Rainbow Dash.

"Oh, hello Rainbow."

"Hi, Fluttershy," she began, and getting straight to the point, continued, "I couldn't get Twilight."

"Oh, I'm sorry. Come in." Rainbow strode into the house, looking around for a place to sit. Her eyes found a staircase, a clock, a rather interesting blue sculpture, and then a couch. Rainbow hopped onto it, leaving Fluttershy to stand in the middle of the room, facing her.

"So, since nopony can take care of you, you're going to go to a hospital, right?"

"Well… I don't know…" Fluttershy's mind was in a state of turmoil, but there was one thing of which she was certain. I can't go back there... I just can't.

"Come on, Fluttershy! We agreed on this. I have to go to this flying camp. You're going to the hospital." She winced at the anger creeping into Rainbow's voice, but remained firm, in her own submissive way.

"It's just… I'd really rather not."

"Look, I'm sorry, but it has to be this way. This is a once in a lifetime chance for me."

"But…"

"No buts! I've enjoyed these secret meetings. I really do enjoy spending the night with you. But I need a break. Even if I didn't have to leave, I need a break."

"So... is that it then? It's over?"

"Yes. It's over. I'm going to tell the others."

"What? No, you can't!"

"I think we should. There's been enough secrecy."

"But... if I tell them, don't you think they might be mad? We've kept it secret for so long."

"Don't worry, I promise they won't be mad."

"But... but... I still don't want them to know. I'm just not comfortable with it." Fluttershy was aware that her lie was dissolving, but Rainbow seemed too overcome with frustration to notice.

"Come on, Fluttershy!" She was nearly shouting in frustration now. "I know you're doing it out of love, but it's gone far enough. I'm going to tell them right now."

"No! I... I mean, can you please just wait a little bit? A few hours? Pretty please?" She threw every ounce of pitiable cuteness she had into this last sentence. Looking directly into Rainbow Dash's eyes, she allowed herself to tear up, just a little bit. Rainbow's resolve visibly wavered.

"Fine, a few hours. That's it!" Rainbow leapt off the couch and stormed out the door without looking back. Fluttershy looked after her as she took off into the sky. Despite getting her way, causing Rainbow so much frustration had been painful. And of course, tomorrow, she's going to tell everypony about my injury, and they'll make me go to the hospital. I just can't let that happen! I need to do something... but what? Should I just run away? Maybe I could steal the antidote, and live in Whitetail Woods with my animals until I heal. She bit her lip, partially out of worry, but also to administer punishment to herself for allowing such a thought to cross her mind. Stealing. Honestly, is there no depth to which you won't sink? she asked, addressing herself in the second person. Well, I guess I'll just have to make a break for it when they confront me. It's not the right thing to do, but... I've given up trying to be a good pony.

Day Six

Fluttershy awoke to the sound of knocking sounding throughout the house. She sat up, and realized someone was at the door. Already? Can't I please wake up first? The attitude behind the knocks provided a clear enough answer: "No you can't, now get your flank down here before I break your door down." She rolled out of bed, and hurried down the stairs. She completely forgot about getting dressed.

She pulled the door open, and came face to face with Rarity.

"Oh, good morning…" she began, but was cut off when Rarity grabbed her arm and dragged her out the door. "Rarity, what are you doing?" She looked around, and saw that Rainbow Dash and Applejack were there as well. "What's going on?

"Well," Applejack began, "apparently…" Rainbow finished her sentence.

"Pinkie's gone."