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False Traitor, True Hero

by NekoNushi

Chapters

Prologue

Just remember, this is a humanized story. Think of it as anthro. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash have wings, but still are human, and Twilight and Rarity have horns, but again are humans. Hope that cleared up any confusion.

***

Lightning crashes, leaving cracks of white across the night sky, while thunder booms, mixing the crashing and booming with the sound of torrential rainfall pouring down all around you. You struggle to stand, your body heavily wounded and losing blood rapidly. You know that you'll die soon of you don't find help. Considering that you're in the middle of Everfree Forest, the possibility of finding any is slim to none.

Finally to your feet, you begin to stagger forward, desperate to get out of the forest. Your body was covered in bruises, cuts and gashes, leaving your clothes blood-stained and torn. Thoughts begin to come across your mind as you limp through the dense forest. Is this the right way? Will you just be walking back into that treacherous bastard that attacked you? Will you trudge through this damn forest until Death decides to end your suffering?

You shiver, the loss of blood and cold rain freezing your body. Continuing to stagger forward, you notice that the thickness of trees begins to thin out. Hope of survival glimmering through the darkness, you begin to quicken your slow pace a tad. Time slowly crept by as you limped out of the forest. A rock in your path trips you up, causing you to stumble and fall to the ground. You instinctively stick you arm out to protect your face, but instantly regret it. A gash that felt as it had reached the muscle is present on your forearm. All your weight falls upon your wounded arm, and pain streaks throughout your body. You scream in agony, and rise to your feet. The pain was numbing you. You make it a couple more steps before exhaustion takes over your body, and collapse.

Surveying your soon to be final resting place, you notice that under you is a dirt path, most likely formed from so many shoes being tread upon that strip of land. You lay on your side, blood from your wounds leaking onto the dirt under you. Along with the sound of rainfall and booming thunder, another sound slowly approaches you. Footsteps. Someone is nearing you. After a couple seconds, a girl who looked to be around 18 with pink hair, and an umbrella to match it, comes across your wounded self. She drops the umbrella and rushes to your aid, crouching down over you.

"A-are you ok?" She calls out, fear and concern making her voice tremble. She takes notice to your wounds and gasps. Unconsciousness takes over your mind, and your sight slowly fades to black.

Chapter 1

Footsteps echo throughout the castle's hall as Terra sprints past guards and other inhabitants of King Czar's small palace. She reaches his quarters and barges in through its double doors. King Czar, a tall, gray-haired aging ruler, with his horn glistening in the candle light, jumps in surprise in his chair.

"Czar, sir, Broad has gone missing!!"

***

"I-is he alright?"

"Ah dunno..."

"I hope so...he was in pretty bad shape when I found him though..."

Hushed, worried voices are spoken all around you. You were laying in something soft, and you felt very warm. The smell of animals, not a pungent odor, but the pleasant scent of nature, lingers in the air. Curious as to where you are, you crack open one eye, then the other. You are laying in a twin-sized bed, and six people are surrounding you, staring at you. They are all girls; each looks to be fairly young. A mature-looking purple-haired girl speaks up as she sees your eyes open.

"Look! He's up!"

"Are you alright, sugarcube?" Another girl asks. She has a heavy southern accent, and wears a cowboy hat, and has on a simple white T-shirt and jeans. She has long braided blond hair, and a splash of freckles on each cheek.

"You've been out for almost the entire night, we were afraid you'd never wake up," adds a small, bookish girl with long, straight dark hair, with one pink highlight. She is clad in all purple; a purple blouse, purple pants, and a catty-cornered purple belt, and has a purple horn, reflecting light from a fireplace somewhere out of view.

"E-er...I guess..." You speak up, your voice cracked and dry.

"Hold on, lemme get you some water," a rainbow-haired girl said as she left the bedside. Your eyes follow her until she passed behind one of the girls who was a couple steps back from the rest. She had long, light pink hair that obscured her face a bit, as if she was hiding behind it. When you look at her, she blushes and looks down, studying the floor.

"Forgive her, she's just really shy," said the mature-looking girl. She also had a horn, not as magnificent as the bookish looking one's horn.

"W-what happened?" You manage to utter.

The bookish one steps closer to you, and explains.

"Fluttershy, the girl over there," She points to the pink-haired, blushing girl, "found you on the path that leads to her cottage, here. You were badly injured, a couple hits to the head, and a lot of gashes and cuts on your chest and arms." She points to your right arm. "That one was really bad. It reached your muscle; you were lucky I could repair it as well as I did."

"You..." You look at your arm, and look back up at her. "You fixed me up? You're a doctor?"

She shakes her head. "I'm not, I'm just really skilled at a lot of magic...tomorrow, we'll get a real doctor over here. In the meantime, you'll just have to rest here."

The rainbow haired girl comes back with a glass of water. "Here ya go, sit up so you won't spill it." You sit up as she handed you the glass. You bring it to your lips and take a sip. It is amazing; the water cleanses out any dryness in your throat. You gulp down the rest as if you haven't had a drink in years.

The hyper looking girl with poofy pink hair to your left finally spoke. "Hi! I'm Pinkie Pie, but you can just call me Pinkie!" Her hyper aura is cute, dangerously close to adorable. "That's Rarity," She points to the mature-looking girl, "That's Twilight Sparkle, but everyone just calls her Twilight," She points to the purple obsessed bookish girl, and she waves modestly, "That's Applejack," She gestures over to the southern belle accented girl to her right, "That's Rainbow Dash, but most people just call her Dash," She points to the rainbow haired girl that just handed you the glass of water, and she replies, "I'm the most coolest, badass pegasus you'll ever meet!" Pinkie points over to Fluttershy and chimes in, "And as Twilight said earlier, that's Fluttershy! She's really shy, so please be patient with her, she means no harm."

Fluttershy blushed a darker pink and said softly, "O-Oh, no, I couldn't harm anything, w-well except that one time...oh w-wait I didn't mean..." She hides her face behind a rosy-pink curl and blushed a deep red. You can't help but smile at her shyness, it is very adorable, but you get rid of the smile, because you look sort of creepy, staring at her with a grin on your face.

"What's your name?" Pinkie asks, tilting her head slightly, like a dog. You open your mouth to say something, but you stop. The hell? Your name doesn't come to your head. You tried to remember your name, but to no avail. Come to think of it, you can't remember a thing! Not your age, not your height, not a single thing.

There was a silence, and everyone looks at you with concern. After staring at the covers for a long time, you say it.

"I... can't remember..."

"W-what?" Rainbow Dash asks, "You can't remember? What, did you get amnesia or something?"

"It's not just that...I can't remember anything..."

"This'll be a pain..." Twilight says, lowering her head.

"Sorry..." You stammer out. You feel bad for being an inconvenience to the people who saved your life.

"No, don't feel sorry," Twilight sighs, "It's not your fault you developed amnesia. I guess one of the knocks to your head hit hard enough to cause brain damage."

"I guess, but I still feel kinda bad," you sigh as you massage your aching forehead.

As you caress your head, a thought rises in your head. It isn't something too pertinent, but it's been bothering you.

"So, you found me cut up a lot, right?"

Fluttershy lowers her head and blushes, so Twilight takes the liberty of answering your questions. "Yes. Why?"

"Well, if my chest was as diced up as you say, then, how come my clothes are in one piece?" You are wearing a plain, baggy white T-shirt and sweatpants that are quite intact. You look around the room, and notice that there are only the six girls and yourself there. No other men. "D-did one of you...change m-me?" You stammer out, your face getting red. The others' faces grow red as well.

This isn't looking too well for you.

"You didn't see a-anything, did you?" Fluttershy squeaks and hides her face, which is bright red, with her hands. Applejack, not a shade lighter of Fluttershy's blush, is scratching the back of her neck and chuckling nervously. Dash is staring at the ground, blushing as well, and is kicking at the ground lightly. Twilight and Rarity glance at each other, and Pinkie, bless her, breaks the silence.

"Are you kidding? Of COURSE we saw it!" She chirps, not looking embarrassed in the slightest.

Tick, tick, tick, ding.

"W...wh...WHAT!?" You shout, blushing a deep red, sinking in your covers. You feel as if all sense of privacy was out the window.

"P-PINKIE!!" Everyone shouts at her in unison. Fluttershy got even redder and looks like she is about to faint.

"What?" She asks innocently.

"YOU WEREN'T SUPPOSED TO SAY ANYTHING!!" Dash yells at her while simultaneously throwing a pillow at her. She notices you staring at her in shock, and began to stutter something illegible.

"W-well...er..." You are at a loss for words. All of your embarrassment coalesced into a physical entity, and has a death grip on you vocal chords.

"I don't see what the big problem is..." Pinkie Pie huffed. You assumed that she was oblivious to the thought of privacy.

Deciding it was best to change the subject as fast as possible, you ask the group a question

"U-uhm, what time did you guys find me? You said I'd been out for almost the entire night."

"Oh, er, around...10:30, was it?" Twilight thought. She'd almost instantly forgot about the previous complete corrosion of your privacy.

"Uhhm, y-yeah, I-I think so," Rainbow Dash stuttered. It was obvious she was still shaken. Fluttershy hasn't even budged, for  she now covered her face completely with her hair, and was studying the floor.

"Ah think that it's about a lil after 5:00 in the mornin, now," Applejack said.

"Well, I'd better go, Spike is probably worried, I've been gone for a while. Bye, er," She pauses.

"You ok?" You ask, concerned.

"Yeah, just, I don't know what to call you."

"Maybe if we wait a while, he'll remember," Rarity says.

"Yeah, maybe," You say. Out of nowhere, you yawn, feeling the exhaustion set back into your bones.

"You should get some rest, you'll need it," Applejack tells you.

"N-nah, I'm fi...'m fine..." You slink under the covers and close your eyes, completely forgetting and not caring about what had happened moments ago.

Applejack chuckles, "What did ah tell ya? Welp, Ah'll be headin' out now. Bah, Fluttershy," You hear her say as she walks out. A pause, you guess everyone waved, and then you hear Dash speak up.

"Well, I'll be going too, bye stranger," she says to you as you hear her walk away.

You mutter out a "Bye" before she leaves. Only Pinkie, Fluttershy and Rarity are left, that is until Rarity says her goodbyes, and leaves.

"W-well, um...I, I guess we'll just...um..." Her voice fades as your consciousness does the same.

Chapter 2

"Alright, you're all set," The doctor says as he rises to his feet. He packs his utensils back into his bag and adds, "Your friend already fixed some of the apparent injuries, I just had to fix a few exiguous fractures; you should be just fine in about two days. Here's some medication to fight off any infections." He hands you a bottle of small, navy blue capsules. "Any questions before I head off?"

"Hm, only about 7,000 come to mind," you add in sarcastic humor.

The doctor chuckles. "Well, hopefully your amnesia will disencumber soon. Though," He solemnly adds, "There've been reports of it taking even years for amnesia to clear..."

"Well that...sucks," You add with a sigh.

"Well, you seem to be just fine, I'll be leaving."

"Thanks for the help, sir, have a safe trip." You thank him.

"Your welcome, and I'm sure I'll be fine, but thank you."

"Oh I wouldn't be too sure about that," You humorously add, "Hell, look at me,"

He chuckles, "Very true," and leaves the cottage.

You finally take notice to the inside of Fluttershy's cottage. It's very inviting, with a fireplace crackling away, giving warmth to the den, and copious and sundry animals everywhere. The smell of nature was obviously from the animals, making the cottage even more inviting. To yourself, you marvel at how Fluttershy can keep so many animals in her house, and always have the place so clean and pristine. Out the window, there was nothing but plains and wilderness. It seems this shy adolescent wants to be as close to nature as possible.

You take the silence as an opportunity to speak up. "Er, Fluttershy," At the mention of her name, Fluttershy blushes and mutters something that sounded like "What is it" and looks down.

"If I may ask, where are we?"

Fluttershy just blushes and mutters illegible things, so Dash sighed and took over. "We're in the outskirts of Ponyville, the town is about a mile or so up the path."

"Oh..." You have no idea where you are. Hell, you don't know why you expected to, you don't even remember where you came from.

"We're in the kingdom of Equestria. under the rule of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna." Twilight speaks up, closing her book she was engrossed in. "If that was what you were wondering."

"I still have no idea about anything though, but thanks," You say, shoulders sagging.

"Hey, I know!" Pinkie adds, suddenly appearing beside you. "We should give you a tour of Ponyville!"

"That sounds like a splendid idea!" Rarity exclaims.

"Yeah, you might as well get a tour of the place you'll be livin' at fer awhile," Applejack advises.

"Yeah, I guess so, I might as well get my muscles moving, too, to work out any soreness." You stand up, legs and abs slightly aching.

"Ok then, let's go!" Pinkie exclaims, bouncing out the cottage.

"Her parents really need to cut down her sugar intake..."

"Oh, she doesn't get any of her energy from sugar, it's all natural." Twilight sighs.

***

Pinkie leads the group up the dirt path as she bounces happily toward Ponyville. Her hyperness has surpassed cute and reached adorable. Fluttershy lags behind a bit, but Dash repeatedly tells her to catch up. You all had finally reached the small, quaint village known as Ponyville, and Pinkie appears directly in front of you. "Welcome to Ponyville, the most friendliest, coolest place in Equestria!" She gushes. Apparently, she thinks very highly of Ponyville. She moves aside as you take a couple steps forward to survey the small sliver of the town in front of you. You see a few pedestrians milling about, talking amongst each other.

"It certainly looks very nice. Not too crowded, not to deserted, I like it." You say as you turn around.

"Well then, let's explore," Pinkie chirps as she pushes you along. You hear Fluttershy giggle softly from the back of the group.

"Hey, I think that's the first time you said something today," You say in a slight teasing tone. She blushes and looks down, hiding her face behind a link curl. "Eh, I'm sorry," You quickly apologize. She just blushes harder and mutters illegible things as a response.

"Forgive Fluttershy, dear, she's just terribly shy," Rarity says, attempting to reassure you.

As you walk throughout Ponyville's streets, you begin to ask the group questions, in an attempt to get to know them better. "What do you all do? I mean, for a living?"

Applejack is the first to respond by saying, "I work at a family owned orchard, called Sweet Apple Acres. It's hard work, but it's really fun, and our apples are the best in Ponyville!"

"That's because it's the only orchard in Ponyville, dear," Rarity says matter-of-factly. Applejack sighs and continues, "Anyways, the apple pastries we make are amazing, almost as good as Sugarcube Corner's baking!"

"Sugarcube Corner?" you ask.

"It's the sweetshop that I work at!" Pinkie Pie exclaims. "I'm also the best there is at parties!"

"Well, I'll keep that in mind if I happen to remember my birthday," you tell her. She giggles and smiles wide.

"What do you do, Rarity?"

"Oh, I'm a fashion designer, dearie, couldn't you tell by my stunning wardrobe?" She swishes her hair and makes a small gesture to her snow white jacket and frilly skirt.

"Um...they look like normal clothes to me..." you say bluntly. She sticks her nose in the air grumpily, and says, "Well, it seems I'll just have to teach you a thing or two about fashion, now won't I?" while slightly smiling at you.

"And you, Twilight?" you say, turning back to the purple-horned adolescent.

"I'm Princess Celestia's head pupil, and I run the town library, though, it's empty most of the time, it's rare for somepony to come across it..." Twilight says with a sigh.

"Well, I'll be sure to stop by and get a few books," you reassure her. "Wait, you’re the Princess's head pupil!?"

"E-er yeah..." She stammers, blushing slightly, "it's not a big deal though..."

"No, it sounds like a pretty big deal, it's amazing that you could be on such close terms with royalty." you say, amazed.

"Eheh, w-well..." She stutters out.

There is a pause, so you ask a question to Rainbow Dash. "What do you do, Dash?"

Dash flexes her wings and cracks her neck. "I'm the captain of the weather team," she gloats.

"Weather team...?"

"You don't know what I'm talking about, do you?" You shake your head. She sighs and explains. "What the weather team does is we basically control the weather. It's fully composed of pegasi, and we either clear the sky for the sun, or we gather clouds if rain is scheduled."

"Oh...you can control the weather? Damn..."

"Heh, hey-yeah! One of the many awesome traits of mine," she boasts again.

Fluttershy has lagged behind again, and is completely silent. When you turned to face her, you notice she was actually looking right at you. She squeaks, blushes, and hides her face again behind her pink veil of hair.

"What about you, Fluttershy? What do you do?"

"U-um..." It seems that by now, she was used to her friends continuing for her, but this time, all are silent, waiting for her reply.

"U-uh...well I....I mostly just take care of animals. r-really...sometimes, somepony will ask to watch their pet, or when the Summer Sun festival comes around, I'll be asked to have my animals preform the music..." she blushes harder, and hides her face again.

"Wow...you actually spoke for more than 2 seconds..." you tease. She squeaks in response. You chuckle and say, "Well, I'd have to say that that sounds like the most interesting job here. Taking care of all those animals sounds fun."

Instantly, Fluttershy perks up and begins to gush. "Oh, yes, it's amazing! I love animals, I'm the only one who can actually go near them, and they don't shy away. In fact, almost all the animals around here know me!" She realizes she actually spoke louder than a whisper, and squeaks, hiding her face behind a rosy pink curl.

You chuckle for a while, until you hear someone shout.

"Quick, get out of the way!!" A girl's voice shouts out. You turn to the direction where the shout came from, and see a little girl with magenta-colored hair, and small, orange colored wings barreling towards you on a scooter. "Move, quick!!"

Instinct takes over your body, and you spring into the air. For you, time feels as if it had slowed. You preform a backflip over the scooter riding girl, and when you stick the landing, pain streaks through your body from the sudden burst of activity.

"Scootaloo! What are you doing!?" Dash yells, "You nearly turned this guy into a pancake!!"

"N-no, Dash, it's fine..." You grunt, leaning against a wall for support. You feel light-headed and woozy.

"Are you ok!?" Fluttershy exclaims, worry very present in her voice. You nod, the achiness fading.

"I'm really sorry sir, it's really hard to stop on a dime. Well, now that apologies are out of the way, seeya!" She flaps her wings, and takes off."

"That was quick," you grunt.

Applejack sighs. "She's always moving. Never stops for so long when on that damn scooter. Sorry about that."

"Nah, it's all good," you straighten yourself. "Let's get going, shall we?" You began to walk when a stabbing pain in your head erupts suddenly.

"Ack!!" You shout, while an image fills your eyes.

It was a girl, looked to be a teenager, is shouting at you, crying. She has shoulder length red hair, and a white horn protruding from her head.

"You're horrible!! How could you do something like that!? Just leave, Epee!!"

Chapter 3

"Dammit!!" Czar slammed his fist on the wooden table, causing a bottle of ink to topple over, covering the table with black liquid. He cleaned up the ink and tossed the empty ink bottle in a waste basket with his magic. "How can he just up and leave like that..."

"I-I dunno," Terra's eyes started to tear up, "but, he might've left to go after him."

Czar began to cough violently. He pulled a cloth from his cloak pocket and brought it to his mouth. He coughed into it, sending bits of saliva and blood into its threads. Gasping haggardly for breath, Czar cleared his throat and tossed the damp rag onto the table. He cleared his throat, and muttered solemnly, "If Quarrel doesn't kill me, this damned disease will..."

***

"You’re horrible!! How could you do something like that!? Just leave, Epee!!"

The image came with an intense migraine that hammered your brain. You sat down on a nearby bench, your pain ridden body unable to support itself. All the girls rushed by you, Fluttershy being the only one of them to sit next to you.

"Are you alright, what's happening?" They all say, Fluttershy's voice holding the most concern.

You didn't respond right away. You held your head in our hands, feeling the pain pulsate throughout your skull. The pain subsided after a couple seconds, and you lower one hand, still holding your head with the other. As you sat there, questions popped into your head. Who was that girl? Why was she yelling at you? A sudden realization morphed from the barrage of questions. She was yelling at you. She called your name. You remembered your name!

"Are you alright dear? You look pale," Rarity asked, a look of worry cast over her face.

"E....Epee..." You mutter...

What was that, sugarcube?" Applejack asked.

"I...remembered something...My name." you say softly. "My name is Epee." You stand up, shaking your head slightly. "Sorry for worrying you, should we get going?" You say with a smile.

"Did you remember anything else, darling?" Rarity questioned.

Damn, you think to yourself, she just had to go and ask. You sigh. "Yeah...it was someone yelling...it was a girl, looked to be a teenager-"

Dash cut you off. "Ooh, a girl? A past lover maybe?" she teased.

"Maybe, I dunno," you sigh.

Dash had a look of minute surprise. "O-oh..."

"What all did she say?" Twilight asked.

"She said...she said, 'You're horrible. How could you do something like that? Just leave Epee...'"

Everyone grows quiet, leaving a solemn air about the group.

"Wh-what did she look like?" Twilight stammered out.

"She had shoulder length red hair, looked kind of petite, and had a horn."

Twilight mulled it over. She sighed, "Doesn't sound like anypony I know...I'm sorry."

"No, it's alright," You tell her. "Where should we go next?"

"Is anypony thirsty?" Pinkie started, her hyperness fading a bit, "Cuz I could really go for some sweet apple cider right now." Everyone including you gave Pinkie a weird look. She faltered, and recovered. "E-err, nonalcoholic cider, of course."

***

Your fingers numb from the ice cold sweet apple cider. Nonalcoholic cider, of course. You barely had drank it, only taking sips ever once in a while. The words the girl yelled to you repeated in your head over and over, seeing her scream them, tears streaking down her cheeks. "You're horrible! Just leave, Epee!!"

"You ok, sugarcube?" Applejack's concerned voice sounded out before she downed her sweet liquid apple essence. She tossed the empty plastic bottle in a nearby trashcan, and caught back up with the group.

"Yeah," you lie, taking another sip of your cider.

"If you say so..." said Applejack, seeing through your fib.

"Ooh, I know!" Pinkie exclaimed, her adorable hyperness returning, obviously attempting to bring a smile to your lips, "Let's go to Sugarcube Corner!! My sweets are guaranteed to turn that frown upside down!"

"I-I'm not frowning," You argue, your cheeks turning a light shade of pink. She was an inch from your face. Her breath smelled...sweet. Not a sick odor of sugar, but as if her toothpaste was bubblegum flavored. And...Cotton candy? Maybe it was her hair, you thought. It did have a look of poofy cotton candy. That fact didn't change the shade of your cheeks, though.

"C-come on Pinkie, give Epee his personal space," Dash said, pulling her back. Annoyance was slightly present in her voice. But, it didn't sound as if she was annoyed that Pinkie Pie was being a tad intruding, but something else. She looked up at you, and blushed barely, just barely, so faint it was hard to notice, and looked back.

The bell that alerts storeowners of an arriving customer rung as Pinkie bounced into Sugarcube Corner, bubbliness almost cracking your face into a small smile.

"Hi Mr. and Mrs. Cake!" Pinkie happily exclaimed.

The sudden overload of activity startled the two elderly shop owners. "Oh! Oh, hello Pinkie..." Mrs. Cake sighed, hand over her heart in an attempt to calm its palpation. She took notice to you. "Who's this? A new friend?"

"E-er-" you start before Pinkie cuts you off.

"Yeah, his name's Epee, Fluttershy found him hurt on the path to her house night before last, and she took him in her house. He doesn't remember anything though, well other than his name he just found out a while ago, but other than that, not a thing! He doesn't have anywhere to live either, come to think of it..." She paused in thought for half a second, and then resumed to pour out more words. "We were walking around to give him a tour of Ponyville, and we stopped to get something to drink, but he wasn't smiling, so I brought him here to get some sweets to make him smile!" She said all that without ever stopping for breath.

"Wait...what just happened?" You say, marveled at the speech Pinkie Pie just blabbered out.

"Don't worry, you'll get used to it," Twilight sighed.

"Oh dear, you look like you just left a war-zone," Mrs. Cake gasped, seeing the bandages on your arms and head. "I wondered what happened..."

"So do I," you sigh, your slight frown returning. Pinkie took notice to the state of your lips and frowned herself.

"You're frowning more and more, we need to get you a lollipop, STAT!" She grabbed a lollipop from the counter, and put in your hand. "Eat this; it'll make your smile come back!"

"We might as well get some for ourselves..." Twilight thought. She grabbed a lollipop for the group and left a few coins on the counter.

"Come back soon, we'll help anyway we can!" Mr. and Mrs. Cake called out as you all walked out of the store.

The group walked about the streets of Ponyville, enjoying Pinkie Pie's sweets. The words continue to play in your head, repeating again and again like a broken record, repeating the same track. "Just leave Epee!! You're horrible!"

You had the lollipop in your mouth, sucking its sweet flavor. It had made your mind feel a bit at ease, but you were still demoralized from seeing that image, and hearing those words...seeing her cry...you must had done something really bad...

Pinkie Pie took notice to your bubble of depression, and appeared two inches in front of you again, causing you to stop. She had a look of sadness cast over her face.

"Does my candy...not make you smile?" Pinkie said, eyes shining over, threatening the appearance of tears. You start to fluster.

N-no, it's not that at all! Your sweets are delicious!!"

Then...how come you're not smiling...?" Pinkie asked, her voice cracking.

Oh crap. "I assure you, you're sweets are amazing, they aren't making me not smile. In fact, it's really the only thing that's helping me right now," you assured her. After seeing that girl cry in your memories, you never want to bring that level of sadness to anyone ever again.

Pinkie still stays silent.

"Look, your sweets aren't the cause of my, er, not smiling, in truth, I think this candy is the main thing that's keeping me from being a sad sack altogether." You smile, hoping that that it would be the trick to get Pinkie out of her haze.

She smiled, satisfied that you were enjoying her candy. "Ok, Epee, I believe you," out of completely nowhere, she hugs you tight. You blush and a noise that was a mix of embarrassment and shock escapes your lips.

"Well," Applejack chuckled, "ain't you jus the lil' Casanova, huh?" she teased.

"W-w-wait, I'm n-not-"

You were cut off by Fluttershy, Applejack, Twilight, Rarity, and Dash's laughter. You continue to blush as the bubbly adolescent holds you tight. She finally let go, leaving you flustered and confused. As you all began to continue on the walk through Ponyville, Pinkie began to walk next to you.

"Thank you..." She whispered, so only you could here. You look to her, confused. She ignored your look of confusion and began to initiate in the small talk with the rest of the group. You were left clueless on why Pinkie showed so much affection to you. The group acted as if it wasn't too common, but not strange either. You decided to worry about it later.

***

After the tour was finished, you all had returned back to Fluttershy's cottage.

"Well, that was fun, wouldn't you agree?" Twilight said to you as you all entered Fluttershy's warm, welcoming abode. You nodded, and let the scent of nature relax your sore muscles. The walk had taken a lot out of you, as did the whole scene of acrobatics. You all had stopped for lunch before returning, so the weight of the food you consumed slowed you down, yearning for a rest.

Pinkie's words at Sugarcube Corner reminded you of something.

"Um..." you start, "I don't have any place to stay, so err...I-is it alright if I stay with one of you?" you ask.

"Hm...I don't think we have any room in the library..." Twilight dwelled on the request.

Applejack thought about it as well. "Ah don' think so either...sorry, Epee,"

"No, its fine, thanks for considering it, AJ," you reassure her.

"Only pegasi can walk on clouds, so my place is out of the question," Dash sighed. "Too bad you can't stay with someone as awesome as me, huh?" She teased.

"Yeah, a real shame," You say sarcastically.

"What about you Rarity?" Twilight asks.

"Hm, no, I don't either, sadly, sorry dear." Rarity responded.

Pinkie didn't have any room either, and you were quite disappointed at that particularly. You wanted to understand why she acted so affectionate towards you.

Everyone eliminated, all eyes turned to Fluttershy. Embarrassed by being the sudden center of all the attention, she blushed and hid her face behind her pink, rosy curl. "Y-yes?" She asked timidly.

"Do you have any space free for Epee to stay here, dear?" Rarity asked.

"U-um...I guess, I mean, um...s-sure, th-there's a spare room, d-down the hall you can use, E-Epee..."

"You sure? I don't want to intrude. I mean, you seem timid enough, so I don't want to make you uncomfortable in your own house." You say, worried you'd cause inconvenience to Fluttershy.

"I think it's a nice opportunity for her to get more comfortable around you," Twilight advised. "Don't you think so too, Fluttershy?"

She squeaked, and hid her face behind her hair again. "S-sure, I guess..."

"Then it's settled! Epee, you'll be staying with Fluttershy from now on, so get comfy together, you two!" Pinkie nudged Epee with her shoulder, a sly smile forming on her lips. You didn't want to even think about what she was implying.

Fluttershy blushed, while you just looked confused. "Sorry to make you go through all this trouble, you all," you say.

"Oh, don't be darling, it's our pleasure to help you," Rarity assured you.

"Well, we should get going," Twilight said, standing up.

"Yes, let's," Rarity agreed, "We've been away from our jobs for quite a while, we need to get back to work."

Sorry, for making you fall behind on work, you guys," you apologize sadly.

"No, don't be, like Rarity said, it's our pleasure to help anypony in need," Dash told you.

"Yeah, we enjoy helping others!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"Yeah, don't sweat it," Applejack added.

"Thanks, guys, you're all a great help."

"Oh, no need to flatter us, we know we're already awesome," Dash boasted.

"You're very modest aren't you?" you sarcastically ask.

Everyone laughed, and said their goodbyes as they all departed back to their homes and jobs.

Only you and Fluttershy were left, save the small critters milling about.

You looked to Fluttershy, and she only squeaked and hid her blushing face behind her hair. You sighed. This was going to take some getting used to.

Chapter 4

Alone. She was alone. No one was left to comfort her; her two closest friends were gone. One had betrayed her, and the other went to stop him. One of them might even be dead, the horned girl thought to herself.

"Why...why did you leave me?" Terra asked no one, all alone in the black void. The limbo closed in on her, yet still left itself open, the choking emptyness surrounding her.

Terra's red and tear-filled eyes snapped open, gazing at the stone ceiling yards above her. She sat up in her bed, wiping her eyes of the tears flooding them. Terra expected to feel the loving embrace of her childhood friend surround her, just like they always did when she had a nightmare. But not today, today, she was all alone. Tears escaped their ducts once more, flowing over her cheeks, dripping off her chin and onto the covers. She sat and sobbed, sobbed in her lonliness. One of the servants, one that had supported Terra after Quarrel had made itself known to her and Epee.

"Terra, dear, are you alright?" She had heard the sobs from down the hall. Terra looked up, and stared solemnly into the maids eyes. The servant sat in the bed next to the crying unicorn, and hugged her. Terra hugged her back, crying into her shoulder.

"Why, Epee?! Why did you have to do this...you were already s-s-supposed to follow him anyways!! Y-you didn't to do this..." She wailed, the pained she kept inside flowing openly now, flowing like her tears.

"Ssshhh...it's okay...just let it all out...sshhh...." The servant said soothingly. "Come on, let's go for a night fly, it'll make you feel so much better..." She said, flexing her maroon wings.

"T-thank you, Rose..."

***

The water gently flowed over your body, soothing your sore muscles. The steam from the hot shower cleared your nostrils. This felt great, you thought to yourself, before you remembered you needed to save hot water for Fluttershy. You step out, shutting off the water and grabbing a towel off the rack. Toweling yourself dry, you look in the mirror to see yourself for the first time. You had straight brown hair, wet from the shower. Hazel eyes shone, appearing blue in the light. You look at your cut and and bruised body. Twilight had done an amazing job, all the cuts were already almost fully healed and began fleshing over. You still had to be careful; they could reopen if you weren't careful.

A knock sounded on the door.

"Epee, a-are you done?" Fluttershy's timid voice said from the other side of the door.

"Yeah," you respond, grabbing bandages from the counter, "I'll be out in a second." You rewrap your arm and one nasty wound on your chest, the only two that needed to be covered.

Finished bandaging yourself, you step out of the bathroom, towel wrapped around your waist so your privates stay hidden. Even though, everyone already got a nice look when they changed you. Fluttershy was to your right, staring at your bare upper body. You both blush, and Fluttershy squeaks, rushing to her room. You do the same, minus the squeaking.

***

A few eggs sizzled as the beaten yellow yolk was poured into pan. You took the liberty to start breakfast while Fluttershy went to tend to all her little critters milling about the cottage inside and out. A few mice and kittens appproached you and stared at the tall, new visitor. You would scratch them behind the ear or under the chin whenever they drew near to you. Fluttershy came back, wiping some dirt from her jeans. She must've had to get on all fours for something in the chicken coop or something, you thought to yourself.

"You...have quite alot of animals here, Fluttershy," you say while a kitten played with your shoestring.

"Yeah, I guess..." She replied quietly. it'd the morning after the walk around Ponyville, so you didn't actually think it'd be so soon that she'd comfortable around you. You remember seeing the farm Applejack lived and worked at, and wondered how she didn't have any room for you. It was quite spacious, and looked to hold at least a family of five, and she only talked about a big brother, a younger sister, and her grandmother. You were sure that Sugarcube Corner had a free room as well. The only people you were sure of that had no space was Twilight and Rarity. You couldn't even stand on Dash's property either. Something was up, but you decided to worry later.

***

"Oh my god, Fluttershy! Really!? Already!?" Twilight said, jaw dropped.

All she did in response was blush and hide her face.

"I mean...no offense, I've heard of it happening in more ridiculous ways, but...you've only known him for a few hours..."

"I-I know that, but...I mean, I know I'm shy normally around others, but...it's different with him...I can't even speak, or look at him..." she sipped her cider. Everyone was outside a small public restroom building, waiting for Epee to relieve himself.

"Sounds like our Fluttershy is in lo-" Applejack was cut off by Fluttershy's timid voice.

"Ssshhh!! P-please don't let him hear you!" she said, hushed and scared for her life that he would hear their conversation.

"Hear what?" the amnesia struck young man said, returning from the restroom.

***

After finishing your morning meal with Fluttershy, a knock erupted from the front door, cutting through the uncomfortable silence. You open it too see who arricved, and to your suprise, Dash, wings flexing, was standing at the doorstep.

"Sup, Epee?" the cyan-winged pegasus said, tucking her wings back into their resting place.

"Oh, hi Rainbow." You said. Fluttershy approached from behind, and sounded out a hopeful, "Hi, Dash."

Dash waved in response, and turned to you. "Hey, you doin anything today? Of course not, anyways, wanna hang out? I thought you'd like to get out and do something." Dash glanced behind you to Fluttershy for half a second, then shot her eyes back to you. "So...wanna come?"

"Uh, sure, I don't see why not..." you say, suspicion in your voice.

"Ok then, come on!" She said, grabbing your arm.

"Er, bye, Fluttershy," you said as you were dragged off by Dash. Why was she acting this way? Was she trying to get you away from Fluttershy?

Chapter 5

Fluttershy giggled as Dash dragged Epee off to do whattever she had planned today. She didn't know exactly, only that she would keep him occupied so Fluttershy could calm herself down. As soon as the two were out of sight, she closed her door hastily, and leaned her back against it. She slowly slinked down, blushing and holding her hand over her heart. She could feel it beating rapidly against her rib cage. Some animals, including Angel, all approached her, concerned. Angel pounded his fist into his open hand and wore a face that said, "Did that new guy hurt you? I'll pound him."

Why did Epee's presence put her in such vertigo? It'd only been less than two days, and she was already having her breath filched out of her lungs whenever she attempted to speak to him. She could feel her wings spread whenever he looked at her, and she hated it. She despised that natural reaction of the wings extending when those...urges arose. Fluttershy shook her head to eliminate the thought. She stood, and walked over to the couch and sat, relieved that Rainbow Dash volunteered to give Fluttershy some breathing time to recover from the presence of her new-found crush.

***

The screams from the group of rebels yelling biased lies, such as 'Czar taxes for his castle's renovations!' or, 'Czar works towards dictatorship!' were angering Terra to unnameable heights. How could they believe all this! Czar was trying his best, but because of the stupid disturbances they cause, he has to raise taxes to gain money to pay damages. Marvalia was a small kingdom as is, and he was in debt because of the soldiers he had to send out because of the attack from those barbaric tribes surrounding the outskirts of Marvalia. The minor food shortages are also because of those same tribes attacking, and even killing, traders Czar relies on. She wanted to slap each one of them and scream the truth in their faces. This is probably his fault, Terra thought to herself. As the crowd got rowdy, she sighed and listened as the castle guards attempted to clear the rebels.

***

You and Dash casually strolled about Ponyville, glass bottle of soda chilling your fingers. Dash insisted she'd pay for the drink, and you gladly let her; you had no bits, or whatever the currency was here, to pay for it anyways.

"So, whaddya wanna do?" You ask, sipping your cool, refreshing beverage.

"Oh, you know, just to hang out. I'd like to at least get to know a little bit about our homeless amnesiac," she said as she gave a friendly, but sharp smack on your back. You winced, but didn't show it; you didn't want to look like a wuss in front of her.

"What's there to know? I can't remember anything." You say, rubbing the spot on your back where she smacked you.

"Oh yeah. That." She chuckled nervously. "Well, I can at least...I got nothing." She said, a playful look of defeat came to her face.

"So, I heard from Fluttershy that you're a pretty good flyer. Can I see?' Dash instantly perked up.

"O-oh yeah, sure!" She said. "Come on, we'll go to a good spot." She ran ahead, tossing her empty soda bottle in a trashcan a couple yards away.

You sat in a meadow while Dash psyched herself up. After she stretched, she gloated, "Try to not let the epicness overload your brain!" At that, she shot in the air, leaving a rainbow trail behind. She sped towards a cluster of clouds, leaving you to expect she was going slam into them, letting the particles dissipate into thin air.

But that was not the case. She dodged out of the way of fluffy white clouds. Then, she turned upside down, back towards the clouds. Rainbow Dash circled the clouds once, twice, thrice, so many more times before shooting straight up. The clouds were spinning from the wind Dash provided by circling them, and had the slightest trace of spectrum within them. At that moment, she ran straight through the clouds, causing a beautiful mix of white fluff and rainbow rippling away. Dash still was flying perpendicular to the ground, which was worrying you. In a split second, she turned almost at a 90 degree angle, now parallel with the ground. She blasted past you, buffeting your face with a immense wind. You watch as she continues blasting past, only to shoot upwards, and twist around in the air. She did figure eights, spins, and even spun around as she flew up, giving her rainbow trail a corkscrew effect.

At last, she hit the ground gracefully, a wave of spectrum emanating from her feet.

"Like watcha see?" She asked, combing her hair with her fingers to straighten it out.

"Uh...yeah," You said dazed, eyes still swirling from rapid movement.

"Heh, I knew it," she said confidently. She stayed silent for a moment, and said quietly, "Have ever wanted to know what it feels like to...fly?" She said, her gusto and bravura fading ever so slightly.

"Uh, what do you mean?" you say, worried that she meant you thought.

"Do you...want to f-fly?" She asked, confirming your worries.

"Uh, how?" you ask.

She looked embarrassed for a couple more seconds, and held out her hand. "I can hold you, don't worry."

You look at her with a mix of shock and embarrassment across your face. It would look....awkward to the ones below looking. Yet, you accept her offer.

"Um...s-sure?" You say, guessing your sanity.

Dash blushed ever so slightly, and she grabbed your hand. It felt soft, not worked and callous like you'd expect from a competitive tomboy.

She held you by both hands and said, "Hold on tight, I don't want you to fall." With that, she flew in to the air, leaving her spectrum in her wake.

It felt great. The wind flew through your hair, adrenaline rushing through your veins as you looked down to see the ground miles below. You grasped her hand in instinctive fear of falling. You heard a sound that you guessed was Dash chuckling, though you didn't care. The fear of splattering against the ground was the worry present on your mind. She went easier on you, as she didn't fly as fast, but still made your eyes water from the speed. She flew throughout the sky, circling all about, looking with you at a bird's-eye view of Ponyville. She made a hard left the nearly made you fall. You had a feeling she did that on purpose, just to get a laugh. Then, she made a turned to fly straight up. You could've sworn you broke the speed barrier by now, as the clouds whizzed past.

Dash lowered you to the ground as you straightened out your hair with your fingers.

"Wasn't that badass or what!" she exclaimed, settling her wings back to their resting place. You lay on your back in the grass, adrenaline still coursing through you. All you did in response was nod, your eyes wide.

"Heh, that normal- er..." She faltered.

"Eh, w-what's wrong?" You ask.

She blushes more noticeably, and looks down. "Um...this...this isn't something I always do..." She admitted.

Oh. This is something she did for you only...

"Um...y-you thirsty? Maybe we could stop for some apple cider?" She said, trying to change the subject.

Knowing the best course of action, you accept. "Yeah, sure."

The plastic bottle slammed on the table as Dash downed the contents of it in one sitting. You, with a mischievous smile cast on your lips, chug it all down as well. She eyed you, and requests another bottle. You do the same. You both chug it, and slam the empty bottle on the table in unison. You eye each other again. You both request yet another bottle. You chug, slam, request another, and repeat about 8 times. Both of you finish your last bottle, and lay it on the table. The two of you look sick, and you glance at each others' pale faces. Bladder failing you both, you take off toward the restroom, matching Rainbow Dash's speed.

You two exit, and sigh. Looking at each others' faces, you burst into a laughing fit. The waiter eyes you, and gestures angrily at the stack of empty apple cider bottles. Dash looked nervous, and searched hastily for the bits required for the mountainous pile of plastic bottles.

***

"Well, that was...fun." You say.

"Y-yeah..." Dash agreed while flexing her wings. The two of you start your trek back to Fluttershy's cottage.

Dash knocked as she had a small blush on her face. You decide not to ask questions, fearing upsetting Dash. Fluttershy opens the door, and gasps slightly at the sight of you.

"Am I really that bad?" you say, pretending to be hurt.

"N-No!" She shouts, before realizing she spoke louder than a whisper. She blushes and hides behind her pink hair. "It's not t-that..." she whispered softly.

"Well, as you can see, I brought him back alive, so..." She says, letting the sentence float in the air. "Bye you two, seeya later!" She says as she turns on her heels, and takes off in flight, but not before waving a final goodbye. You turn back to Fluttershy, and she squeaks as she hides behind that rosy pink curl of hers. You sigh, letting the uncomfortable silence continue before walking into the house and plopping down on the couch, tired.

Chapter 6

Czar hunched over the sink in a bathroom, coughing blood down the drain, the red liquid glistening on his lips.

"Your Highness, are you alright?" A servant asked, her horn appearing first as she poked her head through the door.

Czar coughed more, blood contrasting with the white porcelain. He straightened, and spat some more blood and saliva into the sink, and wiped his mouth. "Y-yes, I'm alright, just another fit..."

The servant looked at the sick and pale king with her eyes shone over with tears. King Czar was doing his best to rule this kingdom, even with this sickness ravaging him...

***

Fluttershy watched Epee as he sat next to her outside her cottage, playing with the animals that approached him. He looked so rough, but he's actually very gentle, she thought to herself, he's so...Fluttershy let the thought hang. She could put one hundred words at the end of that sentence. She kept staring at him as he played with some mice as they approached him, letting them crawl on his legs and arms. She giggled as some puppies tackled him, knocking him the grass. She lifted the puppies off, giggling more when Epee begged for assistance as the puppies licked his face relentlessly. He sat up, brushing off the dirt that covered his back. Fluttershy continued to stare at Epee, until he turned to face Fluttershy. She blushed and looked down, embarrased for being found out. Why am I so attracted to him? I barely know him; I just met him two days ago...Fluttershy was thinking about this ever so endlessly. Every time she though about him, she blushes. Every time he talks to her, her mouth gets dry,  and her hands clam up. I'm such a mess, she thought, this is going to go on forever...

***

She clung to you, tears dampening your shirt, her horn rubbing against your neck. You had your arms around her to comfort her. Her red hair contrasted with your brown hair. You gazed upon a small house erupted in flames, the two of you standing merely yards from the conflagaration. The crimson flames danced, it's light mimicking sunlight. Was she the girl that yelled: "You're horrible! How could you do something like that!? Just leave, Epee!" in your first memory? She certainly looked like her, even though she looked much smaller. Could this be from childhood? Had you been childhood friends?

The image dispersed, giving you your sight back. But, something was odd. Your face was mahsed against something. The floor? You lift your head, and see the tiles of the bathroom. You must've fallen down when the memory took over your sight...

"Are you ok!?" Fluttershy asked, concern highly present in her voice. She knelt down to assist you.

"No, I'm fine, Fluttershy, thanks..." you say. You raise your hand to grab the tub in order to support yourself, but find a much warmer, softer target. You held Fluttershy's hand in yours, accidentally grabbing that instead of the tub's lip. Fluttershy squeaks and pulls her hand back, blushing severly. Oddly, you find yourself doing the same. Minus the squeaking. Normally, well, at least you felt as much, that you would think nothing of it. But now, for some reason, you're flustered and highly embarrased about it now.

"What are you two doing on the bathroom floor? It doens't look very comfortable!" a hyper, excited voice eminated from behind you.

"P-Pinkie!! I told you to knock first!" Fluttershy said, blushing harder.

***

You, Fluttershy, and Pinkie sat in the living room, the animals still meandering about the interior of the cottage.

"So, Pinkie, what'd you stop by for?" you asked, feeling a mouse crawl over your shoulder, heading over to the rest of the couch.

"To see you! Duh," she retorted, saying it as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. Well, at least she was straightforward, you thought. "Oh, hey, wanna go hang out???" Pinkie asked, again appearing 2 inches from your face.

"U-um..." you looked to Fluttershy. She was blushing, and had a look of indifference in her eyes. "S-sure?" you say, moving your head back a few inches, the back of the couch preventing you from escaping.

"You suuurrrre???" she asked, reverting the distance back to two inches. You nod, your cheeks burning from nervousness.

"Awesome! Is it ok if I steal Epee, Fluttershy?" she asked, obviously excited from the thought of having you to herself. When that thought crossed your mind, you instantly regret ever thinking that. (Author: You know why, readers. You know why.)

Fluttershy nodded, looking highly torn between countless choices possibly zipping through her head.

"Woohoo! Come on, Epee!" Pinkie took your hand and dragged you to the door. You sighed, and looked to Fluttershy.

"Sorry, Fluttershy, I didn't think I'd be dragged out to so many dates..." The second the word 'date' left your lips, you regretted it. These weren't dates, you thought to yourself, It was just some friends hanging out...It's not as if they're all hot for me...Are they? God, don't think that. Get your head outta your ass! Come on, Epee! It doens't work that way! You don't just get hacked up in the forest, get found some cute girl and her friends, and now they all swoon for you! Fluttershy's just, well shy. Just because every time she's in the same room as you, she can't talk or look you in the eye without blushing intensely and hiding her face behind her hair doesn't mean she has a crush on you!

...Does she?

You couldn't say anything else, because Pinkie had already dragged you out the door

***

You and Pinkie went nowhere in particular, you just listened to her talk all about her life with her friends while the two of you walked about Ponyville. She talked about first meeting Twilight, and the party she threw for her when she first arrived, and nearly burst into tears when she realized she didn't throw one for you. (You managed to calm her down before the waterworks started) She talked about Nightmare Moon, and how she and her friends took her down with the Elements of Harmony, and other crazy, dangerous, or silly adventures. She stopped short when a rumbling noise erupted suddenly. Pinkie looked down at her stomach. "Woops, I guess I forgot to eat this morning," she chuckled, almost nervously, and began to head off somewhere. "C'mon!" she said, turning back as she went off.

***

You caught up to Pinkie, who was standing on front of an unattended cart. It was surrounded with apples, and apple-related foods. Pinkie looked slightly confused at the vacancy of the cart.

"Um...where's the vendor?" you asked.

At that, a red hairbow, accomponied by red hair, poked up from behind the cart. You and Pinkie peeked over the cart a tad to see a little girl, with a big, light red hairbow, with much darker red hair, and a splash of freckles on her nose. You thought she looked alot like Applejack.

"Oh, hi Apple Bloom!" Pinkie said. "Watchin the cart for Applejack?"

"Mhm," she said, "You want somethin'? I got..." she named off countless apple-related pastries. Pinkie looked at the entirety of the cart's rations.

"Hmm...I think I'll just go with an apple." She said, fishing in her pockets for the amount of bits required. As she set the coin down, and grabbed the apple, she gasped, and looked at you in shock.

"Oh my god, I forgot to ask you if you were hungry!"

You still had yet to digest the breakfast you had, and were content. "Oh, no no, I'm fine, I had breakfast." She still looked distraught. "No, really, I'm fine."

Pinkie, still upset, thanks Apple Bloom and walks off, nibbling sadly at the apple. You catch up to her, feeling bad for no particular reason.

***

Apple Bloom knew. She was only about 8 years old, but she knew. Pinkie was crushing on that guy. Hard. It wasn't how she flipped out when she realized she didn't ask if he wanted something. No, it was how she flustered and different she seemed when around him. Nothing can upset Pinkie. Never does she falter, or have trouble deciding something. Normally, if she was in this scenario without that guy, she would gorge herself on some apple pie, or apple tart. But, now, she faltered, worried about how she'd look to someone else. It was decided. That guy was gonna have Pinkie all over him.

***

It'd been awhile before you could revert Pinkie back to her usual self. She just sulked along, nibbling her apple. Had her not taking your hunger into consideration been that bad? Apparently so, since she was acting as if there was nothing to live for anymore. You could've sworn that her hair wasn't as poofy as earlier.

An idea came to you. A couple days ago, when everyone was touring you through Ponyville, you had remembered that girl yelling at you, you were very sulky and sad looking. Pinkie tried to comfort you by giving you some of her shop's sweets. You thought about using the same trick on her. You didn't think it'd work, but it was worth a shot.

"Hey, Pinkie Pie," you said, as she turned her blue eyes to you. "How 'bout we stop by Sugarcube Corner, that oughta cheer you up." You spoke to her with a reassuring smile in an attempt to add to the effect of support. She gave the reaction you didn't expect: She smiled. She looked a hell of a lot better than two seconds ago. She insantly snapped back to her cheery, bubbly self, and bounced in the direction of the sweetshop. I just can't figure her out... You though to yourself

***

You realized, as you reached the doors of Sugarcube Corner, that you're broke. You've been relying on everyone else for expenses. But, those thoughts were in need of waiting, because Pinkie was already inside.

"Oh, Pinkie, dear, you're already back," Mrs. Cake said as Pinkie Pie entered the Sugarcube Corner once again.

"No, I brought Epee with me!" She responded, sitting on the counter next to where Mr. Cake was standing.

"Ah, Epee." Mr. Cake spoke with a sigh, "We've heard about you quite alot; Pinkie here talks about you nonstop." Pinkie had a slight indication of a blush, and you felt that the pinkness on her cheeks was a rarer occurance than seeing Celestia raise the sun with your own eyes.

"Um...that's nice?" you say, scratching the back of your neck.

***

You spent awhile talking with Mr. and Mrs. Cake, and Pinkie about random things. As you traded words with the group, you had an idea.

"Hey, um, Mr. Cake," you start before they cut in.

"Oh, please, call me Carrot," Mr. Cake said.

"Ok then, um, Carrot," you started, "Are you, by chance, hiring?"

Carrot looked suprised. He didn't expect for some random friend of Pinkie's to ask for a job.

"Um, no not really, but, we could always use a hand, right, Cup?" He looked to his wife, and she shrugged.

"Sure, dear, I don't see why not," Mrs. Cake said. Pinkie looked as if she was the happiest girl in the world.

***

"You start Monday, ok?" Carrot said as you and Pinkie Pie walked out of Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie looked at you with a face that held traces of suprise.

"Why'd you ask for a job? It was kinda sudden."

"Cuz, I realized I'm broke. I don't wanna have to make all of you pay for everything I need while I sit on my ass doing nothing. Besides, I need clothes; I'm operating on only 2 pairs of pants. It sucks."

Pinkie giggled her adorable little giggle. The two of you meandered about the streets of Ponyville once more, stopping by nowhere.

You decided to take advantage of thie situation. You had a few questions to ask Twilight; like about your amnesia, how to treat it, and how to get some new damn clothes.

"Hey, Pinkie? Can we stop by Twilight's library?"

Pinkie Pie's expression saddened very slightly. "Sure, yeah, follow me!" Her drop in bubbliness wasn't as noticable as earlier, but you could still feel it. Could it be that she wanted to spend this day with you only? You also remember something. When you went to Sugarcube Corner, you did absolutely nothing to cheer her up. Did...did merely spending time with her make her feel better? You had to play your cards carefully from now on...

Chapter 7

The small chink of glass against wood was loud in the silent room. The candle's flame danced and bobbed, causing the illumination to warble around the room. Czar had taken his medication, calming the coughing fits and nausea his illness had in store for him. He sighed. Soon, Marvalia will be in disorder, Czar thought to himself, I'm going to fall to this illness, and a leader will not be appointed. Terra is suitable, but Epee...Epee was the perfect candidate. He had will, strength, near perfect judgment. He could read people's emotions like a book, he had motherly understanding, but was as stern as a father. He was perfect. Czar could feel the tears forming in their ducts. Forming from the loss of someone who he felt was a son. But...that shall never happen. He...let his greed get the best of him. Quarrel flourished under his rule, as he tried to get me out of the way, so he could rule. He couldn't wait for his rule. Czar walked over to the map of the surrounding kingdoms and tribes. He eyed a section of the map labeled Segavas.

This damned tribe...Czar said to himself in his mind, because of this cluster of barbaric tribes, Marvalia is tormented by blinded, enraged civilians. They attack, and even kill the traders that pass by to get to Marvalia. They stopped trading with us, and with the recent arrival of Princess Luna, Equestria has their hands full as well. We are running low on countless things this small kingdom needs. Shops and vendors are running more and more out of stock every day. It won't be soon before we crumble in on ourselves...

Czar stepped back from the map, and plopped down in a chair by his desk. He remembered his journals he wrote in years ago. Feeling the sudden urge to remanisce, he opens the last drawer from the top, and feels the cover of the leather-bound journal He grasped it, and laid it on the desk. Czar could feel the memories pulsing from the pages. He opened the journal, and read the first page.

JOURNAL ENTRY #1

Today was possibly the worst day of my life. I, the ruler of a kingdom, just found out I was sterile. I couldn't impregnate a woman. I couldn't obtain an heir. Being sterile is a nightmare for a ruler. Marvalia is doomed if I cannot think of an alternative. Now, I sit, hunched over this journal, writing these words in a mix of rage, despair, and depression. I must find a way to obtain an heir.

JOURNAL ENTRY #2

To them, it was depression, lonliness, and despair. To me, it was a second chance. In an attack from Segavas, two children lost their family. In a fire, a little girl lost her family. They were orphaned, and homeless. I took my chance, and I offered to take them in. My servants and affilates were shocked. In my heart, I'd like to believe that I'd done it out of kindness, but I know it's for my own personal gain. These three children could be Marvalia's salvation.

JOURNAL ENTRY #3

The three children arrived today. They looked confused and troubled. I showed them around, showed them their rooms, the courtyard, the tower, etc. They seemed quite interested, but still were cautious. The girl, who was called Terra, hid behind one of the boys, named Epee, the entire time. I quickly understood the relationship between the three. Epee was Terra's protecter, in a sense. If anything upset her, he was right there, comforting her, and ready to destroy the thing that caused it. I apparently frightened her once, and Epee immediately materialized beside her, whispering something in her ear to calm her down, and gave me a glare that said, "Mess with her, and you're gonna get it." I chuckled, and knew that this idea was going to work wonders.

JOURNAL ENTRY #4

Today, Epee gained his cutie mark. It is two fencing swords crossed. I had taught him to fence, and he preformed amazingly. Even though he said he's never weilded a blade before, he nearly sliced me open. Broad had already had his mark, as well as Terra. Broad is the other boy, and he is a quite rough looking youth. He's very thick for his age, and very combative. He seems to have a good sense of strategy as well. Maybe he can join our military; I believe I can train him to be an excellent general. Terra, even though she is shy and easily upset, has an immense sense of justice and has rock hard diligence. Epee on the other hand...it has only been a few weeks since I took the children in, but he has already shown his potential. He can read my emotions as if they were written on my face. Once, when he'd been handing my backside to me at chess, he could sense my embarrasment, rage, and shock, even though I was wearing an emotionless face. He also is protective and understanding towards those he loves, but is also stern. Give time, and I can almost be sure that Epee shall be the heir.

Czar came across the entry about Quarrel, and Segavas. In a small burst of rage, he tore out the pages. It'd scared him, but he quickly regained his stature, and read on.

JOURNAL ENTRY #6

I was given 5 years. 5 years until an uncurable, fatal illness would take me. Doctors can't help me. There is no cure. This puts a extremely large damper on my plans, as Epee is only 14. He is too young to rule a kingdom. He fits the criteria, but it's just...too early. I must tell them about my illness...

JOURNAL ENTRY #7

I've come to think of Broad, Terra, and Epee as my own children. I love them more than anything. Their needs come first. But...I told Epee. It's been 2 years since I've last wrote in this journal. Epee is 16, and I've told him that he shall become the new heir of Marvalia. He...took it...not well, but not bad. He asked why, and I tole him because he's shown the most potential. I've already informed him about why I took him and the others in, so he understood it somewhat. I just hope I can prepare him enough before the sickness overtakes me...

Czar sighed as the memories flowed from him. He remembered every detail clearly. He remembered the look of determination Epee had as he pressed him ever so hard on their first bout at fencing. He remembered Terra's intense shyness. He remembered the joy those three children had brought.  By now, the tears flowed freely.

***

Terra had never seen a riot before. Until today. Quarrel had started a scuffle with a royal guard, and soon, a riot erupted. She sprinted out of the castle gates to see mayhem. Angry citizens, toting clubs, daggers, and swords stormed throughout the streets taking down any authourity that passed. She sprinted into the middle, desparate to find Broad. She ducked, bobbed, weaved, and hopped around the rebels, dodging there attacks. She used her magic from time to time to block an attack, or blast an enemy back. She sprinted through streets, blasting by rioters, until the crowd thinned out. Terra had escaped the thicket of the riot.

"H-Help...me..." a voice croaked out. Terra snapped her head in the direction of the voice. A man, beaten and bruised, leaned on the side of a building. She rushed to help him, taking his arm, put in around her shoulder, and let him use her as support.

"The rebels..." the beaten man explained, "they came through here, and I tried to persuade them to stop, and..." He didn't need to say the rest.

"It's ok, I'll handle this, you just stay here, and I'll get help, okay?" She said in a soothing manner.

He nodded, and sat down, leaning his back on the side of the building. Terra  began to run ahead, but a mass of muscle stopped her. She ran into him, and fell to the ground. She looked up to see who she'd run into, and wished she never did. A burly, hulking rebel stared down at her, sledgehammer brandished. He lifted the weapon, and Terra dashed away. She knew that if she left, the rebel would probably attack the injured man, so she decided her course of action.

Fight him.

He charged forward, and Terra sidestepped, dodging the attack. She didn't have her bow, so she only used her magic as defense. He turned, and held his hammer up. Terra, horn glowing, magicked up a wall of aura as a sheild, and the hammer struck it. The aura sheild cracked slightly, but it held. Terra surged the sheild foward, charging into the assailant. He rose to his feet, and swung the hammer. Terra ducked, feeling the wind of the hammer pass by centimeters above her head. She focused on the earth below her, and her horn shined. Terra felt the ground below her, and willed it to rise. A portion of the ground below her rose in a thick cube, and blasted forward. The earthy cube pounded the man's chest, forcing him the ground, unconcious. As she turned to sprint in the set course, her mind thought of her cutie mark, a patch of land, grass, earth.

"Dammit, Broad, where are you?"

***

"Only 6 and you got your cutie mark...amazing!"

"Yeah, we're really proud of you, Terra!"

The little girl giggled and beamed with pride. She'd obtained her cutie mark not an hour ago. Her family's faces shone on with happiness.

"That's pretty cool, Terra. Controlling and feeling the earth's aura...you'd be amazing at gardening!" Her mother exclaimed.

"How'd you get it?" Her father asked.

She let out a long explanation of how she gained her cutie mark. When exaggerations were cleared, it became known that she simply felt something. "Like, I could tell what was in the ground, like bugs or tree roots, and I could tell if you could put plants in it or not!" She exclaimed in her monolouge-lengthed explanation.

"You're amazing, Terra. The best lil' sis ever!" Her brother bragged, giving her a small hug, plus a friendly noogie. Terra smiled, happy to have such a loving family.

***

Fluttershy watched Epee as he slept. She knew that something like that was considered creepy, but she thought Epee's face looked so peaceful when he was sleeping. He had spent all night amusing Pinkie, for she didn't leave until late in the night. Afterwards, he tackled the bed, exausted. Fluttershy moved the covers over him, and left for bed. Now, it was noon, and she was back, staring at Epee. She didn't want to wake him, but she knew it'd be best. Luckily, Epee awoke, ending Fluttershy's internal struggle. Unluckily, he saw Fluttershy staring at him. She blushed, squeaked, and left the room in a hurry, leaving Epee confused and sleepy.

Fluttershy cooked breakfast while Epee had fed the animals. He toted the bag of feed around the cottage, pouring it into the copious bowls. After he was done, he plopped down in a chair at the table, and laid his head down. She giggled, and sat down a plate of eggs, which Epee devoured quickly.

Why do I feel like this? I barely know him, but...Fluttershy thought to herself. I want to say that I...I l-love him but...Oh Celestia, why me? She sat on the couch next to Epee, who was dead silent. Fluttershy wished she could end the awkward silence, but she didn't have the willpower to speak.

***

Fluttershy entered the bathroom, about to take a shower, and she saw the shampoo bottle. It was nearly empty. Same with the body lotion. It was probably good for one last use.

"Oof, I see you're running low on your 'essentials,'" Epee noticed, appearing next to Fluttershy.

"Eep!" Fluttershy squeaked, startled by Epee's sudden appearance.

"Oops, sorry," he apoligized, blushing.

"U-um, how 'bout I run out and restock? Is that ok?" Epee volunteered.

"Oh, um, y-you don't have to, it's fine..." As she spoke, her voice gradually got quieter.

"No, it's fine, I'd be glad to help."

After Epee finally convinced Fluttershy to let him be of use, she handed him the necessary bits for the products, and he set off. Fluttershy sighed in relief; she could finally breath for a second. As she took her shower, her mind began to wander. She daydreamed about being with Epee, holding his hand as they walked through the streets of Ponyville. She giggled at the thought, the fantasy being so cheesy and foalish was comical to her. Continuing to bathe and daydream, her mind wondered toward more 'active' fantasies. Fluttershy felt her wings extend, and she tried to get her mind away from it, but she couldn't. She tried to scold herself, but was too caught up in the sensation.

She hoped this newfound lust wouldn't last too long...

Chapter 8

The bulky, muscle-y figure was unseen by Epee, hidden in the shadows of shadow cast by the large building. Broad gazed upon him as he walked through the streets of the town, headed for some unknown direction. Broad clenched his fists in barely controlled rage.

Dammit, he thought to himself, you survived. Can't you just die like the worthless piece of shit you are? Broad walked away from the sight, and headed for Everfree Forest, traveling back to Marvalia to keep up appearances. And to keep Quarrel's acts in line with his plans.

***

"You're moves are too predictable. Parry, feint, and strike!" Czar chanted the command as Epee slashed and deflected harder and harder, causing the metal of the two swords to clash and send sparks. He parried Czar's left slash, and began to diagonally slash downward. In response and instinct, Czar raised his sword to block. Instead, Epee changed mid-cut, and slashed the sword from left to right, striking against Czar's armor, leaving a dent as evidence of being struck. Czar, shocked by Epee's sudden increase on skill, backed away to prepare to lunge. Epee was ready, and crouched down low. Car charged, sword held low. Epee back flipped, dodging the king's attack, and, once his feet made contact with the grass of the courtyard, reversed his momentum, and charged forward. Czar wasn't expecting this as Epee knocked the sword out of the king's hands. Epee tripped him up, and held the sword to Czar's throat.

"My...you're quite good at this."

Broad was watching, envious the entire time. Epee got all the special treatment. He was getting taught by King Czar himself how to sword fight, while I have to train by myself. Broad squeezed the armrest of the wooden bench where he sat, veins pulsing in his hands. Terra broke her gaze from the training session to look at Broad. The smile she previously had was wiped away when she saw how enraged her friend looked.

***

You scan the signs on the buildings you passed, looking for a general store. Fluttershy had been running low on some bathroom necessities, so you volunteered to go out and grab some. As she handed you the bits required, you winced in shame. You were still broke, and couldn't pay for anything by yourself. You wondered if you had some bits conveniently placed in your pockets. You press your fingers to your temple, attempting to remember anything at all. Still a blank, save the memories you recalled randomly. You quickly toss the idea of having money with your clothes; odds are, the person who attacked you had mugged you as well.

As you scanned buildings for a indication of a general store, you catch a glimpse of a bulky figure walk behind a building. Had he been watching you? You'd recalled feeling of being watched on your walk with Pinkie. The talk you and Twilight shared had materialized in your head, and you looked back on her events of that day.

***

Pinkie stopped in front of a large treehouse. It was about 10 yards wide, and at least 20 feet tall, with a balcony present where you guessed the second floor would be.

"Is this...Twilight's library?" You ask, gawking at the massive treehouse library.

"Yep!" Pinkie answered, spinning around on her heels to face you. "What didja wanna ask her again?"

"Oh, just some stuff." You respond, walking up to the door. Just as Pinkie goes out of eye shot, you catch a glimpse of her. She looked down at the ground solemnly, and place her hand over her heart, as if feeling for something. You were worried what you should do in response: keep walking and pretend as if you never saw anything, or ask her what was wrong. Out of fear of upsetting her, you continue to approach the door. Behind you, you feel Pinkie approaching. Inhaling, you knock on the door.

A small yelp of suprise elicits from inside, and a small thud sounds, as if someone fell. You wince, fearing you hurt whoever was inside. The yelp sounded somewhat male; you thought maybe Twilight had an assistant. The door swung quickly open, but no one was directly in front of you. Confused, you began to walk forward to peer inside.

"Hey, watch it!" A young, male voice says, agitated. You look down, and the cutest thing next to Fluttershy was present before your very eyes. A small, toddler sized, purple baby dragon was standing at the doorway, elbow rested on the door frame, tapping his foot, annoyed.

"Who're you? You here to check out a book or somethin?" He said.

"Um, I-I'm here to see Twilight..." You say, embarrassed that you nearly tripped over him. Minus his green spikes, he about reached your waist.

His agitated look softened. "Oh, you must be that guy, Epee, that Twilight won't shut up about." He looked out behind him, and shouted to a unseen listener: "Twi', that guy's here to see you!"

A few bumps and thuds sounded from upstairs, and you heard rapid footsteps, as if someone were hauling ass down the stairs.

"Er, what was that shout and crash earlier?" You ask, wondering if everybody was alright.

"Oh, I was putting some books back, and the noise made me fall of the ladder." He said nonchalantly.

"Oh, I'm sorry, I-I didn't mean to scare you," You apologize."

"Eh, s'no big deal. Yeesh, you sound just like Fluttershy, you two'd be perfect for each other," He rolled his eyes. At this, you blushed severely, and looked away.

Jeez, Why'd he have to say something...You thought to yourself. Wait, why am I embarrased? It's not like I like her or anything. Or...

Your thinking session was interrupted by someone appearing behind Spike.

"Oh, hi Epee, hi Pinkie," Twilight said, quickly combing her hair with her fingers in effort to straighten it out. She looked as if she'd been up late that night for something.

"Watcha here for?" She asked.

"Oh, I, er, wanted to ask you a few questions," You respond.

"Oh, well, come on in," she said, gesturing inside. The baby dragon stepped aside to let you inside. As you entered, you asked about the dragon.

"What's your friend's name?"

"Oh, crap, I forgot to introduce you two!" Twilight exclaimed. "Epee, meet Spike, Spike, mee-"

"Oh please, don't even, you talk about him enough," Spike interrupted. "She talks about you all the time. Even more than her reports to the princess..."

"S-Spike!" Twilight said, her cheeks turning a slight pink. Spike chuckled, and took notice to you staring at him.

"What?" He asked.

"C-can I...pet you?" You ask.

"Um, no," he said, a confused look on his face.

"Wow, that was random, Epee!" Pinkie said, materializing next to you.

"Heh, says you, Pinkie Pie" Spike chuckled.

"Anyways, what didja wanna ask?" Twilight says while sitting down on a couch.

You do the same, and ask: "I wanted to ask some things about amnesia."

Before you could elaborate, Twilight stopped you. "I know what you're gonna ask: You want me to use my magic to cure your amnesia."

You looked down and sighed. "I've been told that you're one of the best magicians in Ponyville. Fluttershy told me a lot. About how you and the others brought down Nightmare Moon, whoever that is, and you calming a rampaging Ursa Minor, and all of the other amazing feats you've done. Clearing amnesia seems like nothing at all."

Twilight sighed, and stood up. "Magic can do lots of things." She picked up a pencil, and her horn began to glow. In a split second, Twilight transformed it onto a tulip. She used telekinesis to take the flower from her hand, and laid it on a table in the corner of the room. "It can turn some inanimate into a living thing, such as a pencil into a flower. It can mend wounds, lift objects," Twilight lifeted a chair, "break things." Her horn glowed brighter, and the chair snapped and broke into pieces. "And it can fix them." She focused, and the chair reassembled. "Magic can teleport a target." Her horn shone again, and she disappeared in a flash of light, and reappeared in the newly fixed chair. "But...a persons brain is extremely complex. Emotions, thoughts, personalities, so many variables one would have to take into account. If powerful enough, somepony rewire another's brain." She paused to think for a moment. "Think of dementia. If somepony were to cure somepony else's dementia with magic, he'd have to know every single personality quirk, complex, memory, and emotion that person has ever felt, or else they will majorly screw up, leaving the effects irreversible."

"So...what you're saying is..." You say, any hope slipping away.

"Yes. In order for me to clear your amnesia, I'd have to know everything about your brain. Your memories, your emotions, any quirks or moralities. Everything. I could accidentally create artificial memories in place of your real ones. I'm sorry..."

You felt hopeless. You thought that you could remember everything, and be able to go home. To see any family you might have. Forever, you'd be stuck in a town, knowing little about this place, and yourself. You will never be able to go home.

"Can...I ask just one favor?" You say, breaking the uncomfortable silence.

"Sure." She says.

"You know Princess Celestia. You're favorite pupil, right?"

"O-oh, I wouldn't go that far..."

"Can you...ask her to research me? If I was ever born in this kingdom, then I should have records of me somewhere, right?"

Twilight mulled it over. "That's a good idea. I'll be sure to send her a letter."

"Then...hopefully, I'll be able to go home...." You say quietly, so the others couldn't hear.

What the hell are you talking about!? You heard your voice scream at you.

Wh-wha...? You respond to your inner voice.

You ARE home! You're such a dipshit! Can't you tell? These people CARE about you! And now, you're whining about not being able to go home. So yer just gonna leave these people here, leave them behind!?"

B-But...If I have family back where I came from, I'll be leaving them behind...What about my friends and family!? What about them!!

Tch...Idiot. You didn't leave them behind. Your not abandoning them. But, you ARE abandoning you're new friends. Can't you see that they all care about you? Especially Fluttershy.

What do you mean?

If I had hands, I would facepalm. She may be a caring individual, but does she let some random guy she found nearly dead on her way home live with her? She never even asked for a rent or anything.

T-that's...

Hah, gotcha now didn't I? Cat got yer tounge, eh? This IS your new home. For the time being, you need to relax here, in your new home, and eventually, whatever fate has in store for you, will come. Ask yourself this: What if it was best that you didn't remember?

"Um...Epee?" Twilight's concerned voice snapped you back into reality.

"Oh, u-uh, what?" You say, rubbing your temples with your fingers.

"You spaced out all of a sudden..." Even Pinkie sounded worried.

"Oh, I'm sorry, I was just thinking..." Were you arguing with yourself? Maybe you're subconscious inner self was right. Even though you questioned your sanity at that moment, the words rung true. You looked at the two girls' worried faces. They cared about you. These were friends. New friends. Not replacing any old ones, but friends. And as they say, home is where your friends are. You were home in a sense.

With your new found epiphany in hand, you stand.

"Thanks for everything, Twi'. Seeya later," You turn to leave, but not before waving a final goodbye. You felt Twilight's eyes on you and you and Pinkie Pie left the library.

***

"Woah..." You shook your head to bring yourself back to reality. You were standing in the middle of the road in the streets of Ponyville.

"Guess I stopped to remember about yesterday..." You again searched for a general store for Fluttershy's bathroom essentials.

***

You open the front door to Fluttershy's cottage, plastic bag plopping to the floor as you do the same on the couch. It took about an hour to get the damn store, and another to find your way back. You came across Applejack selling apples on your way there, and she pointed you to the store. If it wasn't for her, you might not have gotten back so early.

After a couple minutes of relaxation, you hear more silence. Where was Fluttershy, you asked yourself. You began to walk up the stairs to the bedrooms. You see Fluttershy's door ajar. Suspicious, you proceed to investigate.

And you instantly regret it.

Standing a couple feet in front of you, facing the opposite direction, was a bare-naked Fluttershy.

Time slowed. In a matter of seconds, your mind etched the details and curves of her body. Her wings, the small of her back, everything. Everything. She was very thin and small, but not gaunt. Just, really freakin tiny. On the small of her back, just above her butt, was her cutie mark. Three pink butterflies. Her long bubblegum-colored hair barely reached her cutie mark.

Fluttershy, probably sensing your presence, turned around slightly. Taking notice to you, her face went very red. She didn't even move; the two of you just stared at each other, red in the face.

You were the first to react. You shouted apologies, and ran out of the door, slamming it behind you. You rested your back against it, still apologizing.

"I'm sososososososo sorry, I shouldn't have walked in, I didn't mean to, I mean, I wasn't...aw shiiiit...."

You heard more silence. Oh great, you thought to yourself, she hates me now.

She finally spoke up.

"N-no, I understand, It was an a-accident..."

You inhale deeply, and sigh. You just walked in on an extremely shy, extremely cute, extremely vulnerable female.

You felt like fate never hated you more.

Chapter 9

Fluttershy stripped off the mud caked clothes. When she went to tend the her chickens, she tripped and fell in a conveniently placed mud puddle. Now, she was in the bathroom, naked. She hadn't gotten any mud on anything but her clothes and hands, which was good; she didn't have any more shampoo to wash her hair with again.

Bare naked, she walked into her room, not bothering to shut the door; Epee was still out. Fluttershy scanned the room for some suitable clothing; just a robe of sorts.

Creak. Fluttershy elicited a small gasp of suprise, but never looked back. She felt the eyes of someone studying her. She slowly turned around, and saw Epee standing there, staring, eyes wide and jaw to the floor. She squeaked and covered her breasts with her arm, and put her other hand over her lower entrance. Epee would've put Rainbow Dash to shame with how fast he blasted out of the room. He shouted illegible apologies as he slammed the door.

Fluttershy still stared at the closed door in shock. Epee still stammered out illegible apologies.

"N-no, I understand, It was an a-accident..." She heard Epee sigh and walk away.

As Fluttershy stood there, she felt something. She didn't feel invaded, or disturbed. Normally, one would be upset if a man saw them naked. Fluttershy didn't. She didn't feel revealed. She felt...good. She felt as if she was attractive. Epee looked embarrassed. Was it because he saw any ol' girl with no clothes on, or only reacted so embarrassed and awkward because it was me? Fluttershy giggled. She had a chance. She had a chance with him.

***

Twilight sighed as she sat at her desk, staring at the wood surface. Spike's grunts of physical exertion were audible downstairs; he was busy restocking the shelves and such. She stood up and walked downstairs. Spike saw Twilight and her look of indesicion on her face.

"You alright Twi'?" He said.

"Um...can I ask you something? Something personal?" She said, rubbing her elbow with her hand, studying the floor like a book.

"Um. Sure?" Spike scratched the back of his head, confused.

"Am I...pretty?" Twilight said, blushing.

Spike was taken aback by the sudden question. Twilight never questioned her looks; it'd never been pertinent to her. At least not until now.

"Of course you are, Twilight. But...why concerned all of a sudden?"

"Um...t-there's this g-"

Spike interrupted her, facepalming. "Please don't tell me it's the Epee guy you told me Fluttershy's hot for." Twilight said nothing.

"D-Don't tell me...You like him too!?" Spike's jaw was almost touching the floor.

Twilight just looked down at the floor.

"I thought you all agreed that it was whoever saw him first gets him? Isn't that like the girls' rule or something?"

"I know!" Twilight shouted. "I know I shouldn't be dwelling on this...I just...I dunno...I can't help it if I feel this way..."

"Well..." Spike thought for a second. "Well, overall, whether he wants to be with Fluttershy or you, it's his desicion. I mean, obviously, your completely hot for him, and so is Fluttershy, and I doubt either of you would deny him, so, I guess it's his desicion. Just let him decide, if he was meant to be with you, or whatever, just let it happen, don't try to get him to sway his mind."

"Spike...That was probably the most sagely advice you've ever given." Twilight was shocked at Spike's sudden advice.

"Heh, guess it's just my talent," He bragged.

***

Pinkie woke up from a rough night's sleep. She couldn't stay out for long; she kept waking up throughout the night. And she knew why.

Epee.

No matter what she thought about, sooner or later, Epee would pop into her head. It ravaged her. She never felt like this with anyone. She didn't know why she felt like this about him.

And it was killing her.

After an hour or so of laying in bed, she finally got up. After she took a shower, she came down the stairs to see Mrs. Cake. An idea popped into her head. She remembered hearing about a feeling like this. Love. Could she be feeling this now? Only one way to find out.

"Mrs. Cake, what's love?" Pinkie asked bluntly.

Mrs Cake, not knowing that Pinkie was right behind her, jumped and yelped.

"Oh my! Oh, it's only you Pinkie...Wait, what?"

"What's love?" Pinkie asked again, bluntly and curious.

"Um..." Mrs. Cake scratched the back of her neck nervously.

"Why ask this all of a sudden, dear?" She asked.

"Cuz, I can't get Epee out of my head, and I can't stop thinking about him, and when I do, my face gets hot and I feel happy, and alotta other good things, and I was wondering why, and I remembered hearing about something called love, so I came down to ask you."

Mrs. Cake smiled. Yep, she thought, she's in love.

"Well, love can come in many different forms, or you can love someone for many different reasons. What do you feel when you think about him?"

"Hm..." Pinkie took a long while to dwell on that question. "I feel happy, safe, and confident. Or, more confident than I already feel. I feel like if there's anythingtaht can hurt me, Epee will be there to protect me. Nothing bad'll happen as long as I'm with him. And, that makes me happy in turn."

Mrs. Cake chuckled. "Pinkie, dear, it's obvious you have strong feelings for that boy. I'm glad that you've finally been able to experience that feeling with somepony." She put a hand on Pinkie's shoulder. "I feel like that with Carrot. I feel safe, I feel his drive to make me happy, to make me smile, even when everything is going wrong. I don't know much about Epee, and he doesn't know much about himself, but I know he's got a good heart. But..." She looked down, and sighed. "If his heart is for somepony else, don't hate him. One cannot control how they feel for another. Just, let whatever fate has decided happen. If he is meant to be with you, then, sooner or later, you will be together."

Pinkie smiled. "Thanks, Mrs. Cake. But, is there any way that I could get closer to him?" Pinkie asked. "I know you said to let it happen on it's own, but still...I at least wanna be closer to him..."

Mrs. Cake just chuckled.

***

Clouds dissapeared one by one as Dash kicked them, causing the moisture to disperse. As she sped through the sky, clearing the clouds, she kept thinking about someone. Epee.

Why did I act like that? I've never EVER gotten nervous around somepony before. Why is he so different? Dash knew though. It was a feeling that she knew of, even though she'd never really felt like it with anyone.

It scared her.

She only talked to him for little over two hours, and she was thinking about him all the time. Dash felt so many different feelings at once: love, guilt, anger, indecisiveness. she loved him because...she felt so at ease with him, yet at the same time, jumpy. She could calmly make decisions, but, she felt so spastic when he was near, her heart would palpate and jump like sugar rush. She felt guilt because Fluttershy was in love with Epee as well, and they all agreed that they wouldn't do anything to sway his decision; yet, she'd been crushing on him as hard as Fluttershy was. At the same time, it was going against her Element of Harmony: Loyalty. So, that made her angry at herself for going against her friends. She couldn't decide what to do; she could tell Fluttershy about it, she could confess to Epee, or she could keep silent. She wanted to tell Fluttershy because she could get it off her chest, but then Fluttershy might keep quiet about her feelings as well to let Dash try to get Epee. She wanted to confess to Epee because, hell, she might have a chance, but then she'd be betraying Fluttershy.

Dash kicked another cloud in frustration, but shrieked in fear when its thunder boomed.

***

Opalescense snoozed on the pile of warm cloth, until Rarity pulled it out from under her.

"Opal! You know not to nap on mommy's fabric!" She said, picking off the cat hairs. Opalescence glared at her as she slinked away to find another place to sleep.

Rarity was having trouble focusing on her work. She had a lot of orders for dresses and other garments to fill; she needed the utmost concentration. Yet, her mind wandered off to a certain newcomer. She wasn't as awestruck with Epee as Fluttershy was, but she wouldn't deny that her mind often travelled to the young amnesiac.

She tried desparately to think of something else. After an hour of the same process happening, she tossed down her needle, scissors, and jewels onto the table in frustration.

Fine! You want me to see him? Ok then!! Rarity tousled her hair to straighten it out, then stormed out the door

***

Thwam!! The apples dislogded from the tree and fell into the baskets after Applejack placed a firm kick justly into it's thick trunk. She picked up the baskets and dumped them in the cart behind her. She continued this for a long while, her mind wandering.

Why does he got me under such ah spell? Ah ain't lovestruck like Fluttershah, but damn, has he got me thinkin' 'bout 'im. Applejack tried to knock loose the thoughts like the apples she knocked off the trees, yet they held fast. She started to ask herself more questions. Why was Fluttershy crushing on Epee? It's not they've ever known each other before. Why did he have such a charismatic aura around him?  He musta had a hella lotta women on him wherever he came from...

After harvesting a large amount of apples, Applejack traveled back to the farm, and stored the myraid of apples into the barn. Wiping sweat off of her brow, she stepped back into the house.

"Ah, Apple Bloom, yer back," she said, grabbing some soda from the fridge and downing it. "How many bits did we get?"

"Not much, but good enough," she said. "Didja hear about that newcomer? Tall guy, brown hair, blue-ish eyes..."

"Oh yeah, Epee? Yeh, Fluttershy found him injured on the way home the other day, and now she's lettin' him stay at her place, since he's got amnesia."

"Oh. Well, you shoulda seen him today. He was walkin' around town with Pinkie, and she was givin' him googly eyes the whole while. I swear, I could tell she was completely in love with that guy."

Applejack's eyes grew wide. But, what about the promise!?

Chapter 10

You were crouched in a room, weeping. The floor was stone and cold against your skin. Your sobs echoed off the stone walls. The door off to the left creaked, and you ceased your weeping. You looked through your tears to see a girl with a horn and red hair standing at the door way. You turned your head away and wiped your tears away.

"Y-yes?" You croaked out. The girl walked over to you and held you close.

"It's ok...you can cry...I'm here...no one else can hear you..." She said as she stroke your head. The tears broke their way through, as flowed openly down your cheeks. Your weeping and sobbing intensified. The girl kept speaking to you in a soothing manner, stoking your hair.

***

You bent over the counter pressing your temples with your palms in an attempt to soothe the headache that bombarded you. The image arrived with a migraine like prior events. Pinkie approached you from the side.

"You ok, Epee?" She said worriedly. The sweet smell of the Sugar Cube Corner soothed your aching brain. The pain subsided, and you straightened up.

"Yeah, just another memory."

"Really? What didja see?" She asked, curiousity present in hr voice. You told her what you saw.

"Aww, that sounds touching. I wonder who she is."

You shrugged. Fortunately, a customer entered, the bell over the door ringing, ending the uncomfortable silence. The customer asked about a special order she place, and Pinkie Pie materialized beside him holding a box.

"Here you go, Cherilee!!" She exlaimed, handing her the box. She thanked her, handed over a handful of bits, and walked out of the bakery.

It'd been a week since Mr. and Mrs. Cake let you work at Sugar Cube Corner. You were given the oh-so arduous job of cashier. The amount from your last paycheck wasn't astounding, but it was more than enough to be able to satisfy your morality. Today was a slow day; usually more customers came by.

Your mind began to wander to the images you've recalled so far: The girl yelling at you, the house on fire, and her comforting you. The earliest memory seemed to be the fire. It seemed, because of her reaction, it was her house undergoing conflagration. She looked to be a child, same as you at that moment. For the time being, you can assume that you two were childhood friends. In the image of her comforting you, she seemed to be a little older. The next, she yelled at you, telling you to leave. She looked to be the oldest then. Just what had I done to her? Terra looked like she hated me more than anything...Wait, WHAT!? Terra? Is that her name? How did I remember that? It seemed you remembered the girl's name, but that still didn't help much.

***

Your shift was nearly over when another customer entered. Or so you thought.

"Hello Epee, dear!" A elegant voice filled the room.

"Hi Rarity, how are you?" You asked.

"Oh, just fine, darling." She said, tousling her purple hair.

"Good. What're you here for?" You curiously asked. You only stopped to chat with Rarity on the rare occurance that you'd pass by her on your way to work.

"To see you of course. We haven't actually sat down and talked for a long time. I was wondering if you wanted to have a chat after work."

You would actually like to have a talk with Rarity; when you thought about it, you haven't actually had a significant conversation with the violet-haired unicorn. *Author's note: You all have asked me about whether the characters are human or ponies. They are humans, but with their pony traits; for example, Rainbow Dash having her wings, and Twilight having her horn. For the sake of convenience, I call them pegasi and unicorns. Hope that cleared things up.*

"Um, sure, but I should tell Fluttershy first..." You said nervously.

"Oh, it'll be fine. The dear's been keeping you to herself for the past week, it's time to give us some time with you," She said. You had a sneaking suspicion that there was an innuendo in that line.

"Um, o-ok..."

"Wonderful!" She sighed. After your shift was over, Rarity led you over to her house. It was a quaint abode, much like Ponyville itself. You sat down in her living room, on a couch, and she sat on the other side. The two of you made small talk: work, Rarity's most recent dresses, (She went on for quite a while on that topic) and the wacky adventures she and her friends had experienced.

"Yes, my life took a turn for the better the day Twilight arrived. I believe you've been informed about Nightmare Moon, correct?"


"Yeah, but I don't really know who that is." At that, Rarity told the tale of Celestia and Luna, and how Luna turned evil and tried to bring eternal night. Celestia banished her to the moon for 1000 years, and when she returned, she returned as Nightmare Moon, and tried yet again to bring eternal night. Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack and her had weilded the Elements of Harmony, and purged Luna of the resentment given form, and saved the world.

"Woah..." You marveled. You had never guessed that you were friends with the worlds saviors.

Rarity flushed pink. "O-oh please, it wasn't much, dear..." she said modestly.

"Are you kidding me? You saved the freakin' world!"

Rarity continued to blush. "W-well, how about we talk about you, darling?" She spoke up, trying to change the subject.

"There really isn't much to talk about. I still don't remember anything..."

"Oh, yes, I'm sorry..." Rarity apoligized.

"No, it's fine. Oh, but, I remembered some more." You added.

"Really? How much?"

You told her the images that returned again.

"So, that girl's name is Terra...are you sure?" She mulled over the new information.

You nodded. "It just came to me as I tried to remember more."

After a couple minutes of silence, Rarity finally spoke up.

"I need to tell you about something." She said solemnly.

"Um..what?" You ask, worried about her sudden change in tone.

"Do you know why Fluttershy finds it hard to talk to you?" She asked, staring right at you.

"Er...because she's shy?"

Rarity sighed. "It took Fluttershy a few hours for her to be comfortable around Twilight. It's been a week and a half since you've met Fluttershy, and she still can't look you in the eye, am I right?"

She was right. She still had trouble talking to you, even though she's had some minor improvements.

"So, what're you saying?" You asked, now scared of what Rarity was getting at.

"I'm saying there's a much different reason she has trouble being social with you."

"Such as?"

It obviously pained her to say this. "...She's in love with you Epee.

Those six words echoed on your ear as time seemed to stop. No way...Rarity has gotta be kidding...

"I know what you're thinking. You think I'm joking. I'm not. I would never joke about love. The day she first met you, she told us how she felt about you. She asked us never to tell you. And to help her."

"B-but why did you tell me?" The shock has paralyzed you, and you struggled to speak the words.

"Because you're killing her. Everyday, she tells us about how much she falls more for you. If you're never going to make a move, then you being near her hurts her. We lied about not having room for you in each of our houses. It's obvious that we all can house you. Twilight could've just cast a spell on you to allow you to walk on clouds. We did this so you could be close to Fluttershy. But, all you do is hurt her. Unless you have feelings for her, you must stay with someone else."

You struggled to believe all she was telling you. But, even though, you knew it to be true. It all came together. Fluttershy always blushed whenever you looked at her, and could barely speak to you.

"I...I'm so sorry...I..." You lowered your head, tears threatening to break ranks. "I had n-no idea I was doing that to her..."

"It's not your fault that she feels the way she does..." Rarity paused. "That's not all..."

You looked up at the unicorn. "What?"

"In the process of this...the others have fallen for you as well..."

Today, Rarity, in your eyes, broke the record of mind blowing statements in 10 minutes. "Are you saying that everypony else is in love with me as well?"

"I'm not sure about Applejack, but I'm certain that Pinkie and Rainbow have fallen for you..."

"Please tell me your kidding!!" You shouted. "You have to be! There's no way that I have four girls in love with me for no particular reason! I have done NOTHING but mooch off of you all, and yet you say they love me!?" Rarity winced at your outburst. Inside, you cursed yourself for scaring her, but your rage overflowed. "I don't know what possesed you to trick me like this, but it isn't funny! I'm sorry for anything I've done to make you do it, but-"

"I'm not lying!! I would never lie about love! Love is one of the best things that can happen to someone! I would NEVER trick somepony else about love like Sky Liner!!" Rarity lowered her head again, and a sound you never wanted to hear again eminated from Rariy's throat. Sobbing.

No, no, no, nonononono!! Please, don't!

You walked over to Rarity and shook her by her shoulders. "Please, don't cry, I-I'm sorry, I had no right to raise my voice-" You were cut off by the unicorn's sudden embrace. She sobbed onto your shoulder, tears dampening your shoulder. You held her back, trying to comfort the crying Rarity. After a few minutes, her sobbing ceased. "I'm sorry..."

"No, it's okay, I shouldn't have yelled, it's just...shocking to hear that four girls are in...love with me."

Rarity wiped away her tears... "I don't blame them," she said softly, "you DO have a charismatic aura about you..."

"Don't play with me like that..." you said with a chuckle."

"I'm serious. I don't blame Fluttershy for falling in love with you."

You stepped back and plopped down onto the couch. "If I may ask," you spoke cautiously, "who's Sky Liner?"

Rarity sighed. "He's...my ex-husband..."

Your eyes widened. "You were married? But, I thought you were in your early 20s."

"I am. I'm 22. He and I met when I lived in Manehatten. I was 19, he, 24. I won't bore you with the details, but I was with him for about a half a year. I thought our relationship was going well, but, I... caught him in bed w-with another woman." Her voice trembled, threatening the arrival of tears. "He claimed to love me more than anything, but he left me, with his harlot of a marefriend to Trottingham. I came to Ponyville to get away from it all..." she began to cry again, and her held your arm around her.

"It's alright, it's all in the past now..." After more minutes of comfort and tears, Rarity wiped her eyes.

"I'm sorry, I must look like a wreck now..."

"No, it's fine..."

"Thank you for listening...I haven't told anypony about my past..." She smiled up at you. You returned it, happy to support Rarity.

"You should be going now. Fluttershy might be getting worried."

"Alright. If you need anything, just ask, I'll be there." You smiled.

"Oh, before you go, I have to ask you something." You looked back. "Do you harbor any feelings for Fluttershy?"

You thought about that question for a long while. You certainly did like Fluttershy. She was kind, cute, very willing to help anyone that needed it. You answered that question carefully.

"Fluttershy certainly has done a lot to help, and now learning about her affection towards me, I find I certainly do find attraction to her, but I would like some more time with her to refine those feelings."

Rarity smiled, seemingly appeased with your answer. "Okay. See you later, dear."

"You too," You say, walking out the door.

***

"Heeyy Epeee!" a southern accented voice shouted behind you. Applejack jogged up to you.

"Oh, hi AJ. What's up? You okay?"

"I'm just fine, sugarcube. I was just wonderin', you doin' anythin' tomorrah?"

"Um...I'm off I think, so no. Why?"

"I was jus' thinkin', how 'bout we all get together at Fluttershah's and have some fun?"

"I'll ask Fluttershy, but I'm sure she'll be happy to have everypony over."

"Great," She said. "Seeya tomorrah!"

Chapter 11

The existence for 85% of this chapter is to satisfy my perverted readers.

!!WARNING!!

This chapter contains the following:

Boob shots and 'accidental' boob grabs.

5 Attractive females trying to get into 1 man's pants

5 Attractive females and 1 man sleeping in the same bed.

Read at your own risk. Enjoy!

***

Your back and neck popped as you stretched. It was morning, and the sun was shining through the window, warming you. You felt a slight weight on your chest. The hell?

A small puff of white fur was asleep on your chest. When you investigated further, you saw it was a bunny. In fact, it was Angel, Fluttershy's personal favorite pet. This occurance was strange though; he normally looked daggers at you if you came in a 3 foot radius of him. But now, he was snoozing peacefully on your chest. You took the chance to poke him, attempting to alert him that you had awoken. He stirred, and stood up. He blinked, and looked to you. His eyes grew wide and quickly hopped off. Before he scuttled out of the room, he gave you alook that said, "Don't tell anyone." You chuckled before taking off your pajamas and put on his day clothes. *Author's Note: Yes, Epee wears pajamas. Real men wear PJs >:|*

You shuffled into the kitchen and opened the fridge. You chugged down some orange juice, and plopped down onto the couch. You were off today, and you wondered what was on schedule for today. You could help Fluttershy tend to the chickens, or head out to town and refill on feed...Your pupils dialated when you remembered what was scheduled today. The gang was arriving sometime in the afternoon to hang out. You rushed into the bathroom and checked yourself in the mirror. You looked like a mess. Your usually soft and kempt brown hair was messy and knotted, and you had bags under your eyes. You quickly hopped in the shower to lighten your exausted appearence.

***

Is she really in love with me? You ask yourself as you look at Fluttershy. She was petting Angel, who was placed comfortably in her lap. Do...I love her?

"Y'know, Angel was sleeping on me when I woke up this morning." You say, a mischevious glint in your eyes. You got just the response you wanted from the little bunny. He looked at you in shock, and quickly looked back at Fluttershy, shaking his head vigorously.

"Really Epee?" She asked. You nodded. "Aww, how sweet! I didn't know you were warming up to him, Angel," She said, stratching him behind his ear. He slowly looked to you, and gave the most evil terrifying deathglare. You shrugged it off, and just chuckled.

"When did AJ say she and the others were gonna get here?" You asked.

She blushed and looked down, sending a stab of guilt through you. I really gotta start thinking before I speak...

"U-um...anytime soon, I think..." She looked you in the eye for half a second, then looked back down.

You sighed. It was now or never.

"Fluttershy...why are you so skittish around me?" She looked up at you. For the first time since you've known her, she looked you straight in the eye.

"Rarity told me that it took a couple hours for you to get comfortable around Twilight and the others, yet, it's been a week and a half, and you can barely even speak a sentence to me...do you not like me?" You could tell that you said the wrong thing as soon as the words left your lips.

"NO!!" She snapped. "Why wouldn't I...I-I mean, it's not like that, I just, I..." She looked like she was about to cry.

Shit!!

You screamed in your head.Why did I have to say that!? I knew that she was crushing on me! Goddammit!! Fluttershy's tears broke through to you, and a newfound courage swelled within you. You walked over to Fluttershy, and embraced her. You heard her gasp.

"I'm sorry. Please forgive me." You expected to feel the knife of guilt twist in your side, for, in forethought, you knew that this would get Fluttershy to forgive you. Yet, the stab never came. Some other feeling arose within you. You felt...happy.

Rarity...I think, I can answer your question now. You thought back to your visit with Rarity, when she asked you whether you had feelings for Fluttershy or not. She's not going to be hurting anymore.

You let go, and turned away. "Forget what I said." You walked away, guilty for hurting her feelings. You felt her eyes on her back as you walked up the stairs.

***

Knock, knock, knock. "Fluttershy, we're here." exlaimed Applejack. Fluttershy answered the door, and invited in Twilight, Applejack, Dash, Pinkie, and Rarity in her cottage. It'd been about an hour since you and Fluttershy had that encounter, and things had calmed down. You looked to the group from the couch. "Oh, hi everypony," you greeted them. Pinkie instantly materialized beside you.

"Hi Epee! How've you been since we last talked?" She asked, leaning in close to you.

"U-um, we talked, like, yesterday..." You say, scooting away.

"I know!" She replied obliviously. You sighed in response, "Fine, I guess..."

"Woohoo, that's super-duper fantasterific!" She exlaimed.

"Sup with her?" You ask Twilight.

"She instantly perked up when we said we were gonna hang out with you today, so I guess that's what's got her so uber-bubbly," She replied. You sighed. You could tell this was gonna be a long day.

You all had spent a couple hours talking about nothing in particular. You traded laughs and silly events, and had a blast. If Fluttershy had been hurt at all in the event that morning she showed no sign of it now. She sat right next to you, giggling at jokes and funny stories being told, and joining the conversation.

***

Everyone but you and Rarity were engrossed fully in conversation, so you took the oppurtunity to say something to her. You tapped her shoulder.

"Yes, dear?" She asked.

"I think I can answer your question from yesterday." You told her.

"Oh really?" She said, turning serious. "Let's hear it then, darling."

You took a deep breath. "Earlier today, I realized it. I could see myself that she is in love with me. Watching her, seeing her, I felt it. It felt right. I...I love her. It hasn't been long since we've known each other, but time doesn't nessicarily effect one's feelings or bond with another. So, yes, I do harbor strong feelings for her." You blush and averted your eyes after you spoke.

It was a long pause before she spoke up again. "We leave her in your hands. It seems that you'll no longer end up breaking your heart. Good luck," She said, smiling. You sighed in relief. You finally got it out.

"Hey, anypony thirsty? I brought some apple cider," Applejack said, pulling out copious bottle of cider. Everyone asked for some, and Applejack handed everyone a bottle. You uncorked the top, and took a swig. It tasted...strange to you. Not bad, just....different. Everyone else didn't seem to mind much; they took deep gulps. Even Fluttershy.

***

Unlike everyone else, you had barely drank your beverage. Applejack had gotten through her fourth bottle. Fluttershy had just finished her second, and the rest had downed their third. You noticed something a little different about everyone; they all were acting strange. Then it hit you.

This cider had alcohol in it.

You stood up to go to the bathroom to splash some water on your face, but arms wrapping around your arm prevented you from doing such.

"No, don' go, Epee, stay with us..." Pinkie pleaded, speech slurred.

"Yeah, stay with us!" Dash said, grabbing your other arm. They pulled you back down onto the couch, and Fluttershy spoke up.

"Hey, hehehe, don't hog him to yourself!" She shouted, slinking over to you.

"Hey, back off, you've had him here cooped up for a week with you all alone, let us have some time with him!" Dash replied.

"Yeah, what she said!" Twilight agreed, hopping on your lap.

"H-hey, wait, lemme up...!" You plead, struggling to stand.

"Nuh-uh, yer not going anywhere, buddy," Rarity said, wrapping her arms loosely around your neck from behind the couch.

"Wait, give im to me!" Fluttershy said, sitting on your lap next to Twilight. You could tell that things were about to get difficult.

"Okay, okay, okay, I'm getting up!" You shout, moving all of the girls off of you. You succeed, and began to get up; however, to make matters worse, Dash takes flight, and blasts right into you. When the dust cleared, you saw she was  laying directly on top of you. Her breats were pressing against your chest.

"Heheh, I got you now!" She said in drunken triumph.

"Hey, offa him!" Twilight said, lifting Rainbow off of you with magic. Instead of helping you escape, Twilight fell on top of you. "Yer mine!"

You push her off, and began sprint up the stairs. Dammit AJ, you just HAD to bring that cider!!

You were knocked down again, but by a different member of this twisted harem. Fluttershy had barraled into you, clutching your chest.

"Don't leave, Epee!" She shouted, squeezing you tight.

"P-Please, Fluttershy, let...go...!" You say, trying to break free of Fluttershy's vice-like grip.

"Nuh-uh!" She protests. Rarity telekineticly lifted her off of you, and slowly laid on top of you in her place.

"Come on Epee, let the mature woman handle it all..." She said provocatively, her larger breasts squishing against your chest.

"Oh, come on, not you too!" You yelled. She just giggled. Grumbling, you tried to shove her off, but grabbed something soft on accident.

"Ooh, Epee, I didn't know you were such a go-getter! Have you made a move on Fluttershy yet?"

By accident, you grabbed Rarity's breast. Yelping, you push her off, and run up the stairs. You make it to your room, but you weren't the only one. All 5 girls charged into the room with you, and Twilight closed the door behind her with her magic. "Nowhere to run now!"

Oh crap, what do I do!? I can't escape, ohh craaap...You excepted the inevitable. You had nowhere to run.

The group tackled you, and the cluster fell to the bed. After some rearrangements made by the girls, each of them clutched to a part of you. Pinkie had your left arm, Fluttershy had the other. Twilight and Rarity clung to your waist from either side, and Dash had your right leg. You lay there defenceless, unable to move. Apparently, the alchohol finally got to them, and they all passed straight out.

You layed there for what seemed to be an eternity, and then, sleep finally granted mercy upon you. Just before you fell asleep, your mind thought about how awkward this was gonna be in the morning...

***

Applejack sat there while she witnessed all of the girls pounce on Epee. She marveled, not saying anything as they finally reached his room.

"Tch, they can't drink worth nothin..." She muttered as she took another swig of her cider.

Chapter 12

You slowly opened your eyes and stared at the ceiling. You tried to lift your hand to massage your temples, but something stopped you. A weight was present on your arm. Both arms to be exact. And your chest. And one of your legs. You open your eyes, and look to the cause of your lethargy.

Your face grew red and hot as you saw the cause. Fluttershy and Pinkie clutched to each of you arms, Rarity and Twilight clung to your midsection, and Dash had one of your legs. You gotta be kidding me...You thought to yourself. You would've been happy enough with just Fluttershy forcing her way under your covers, but the whole gang? Why me, you asked yourself. A few minutes pass, and you become sick of being pinned down. You began to move, but you felt something shift. You shot your head over to Fluttershy, who was beginning to stir. Oh crap. You knew what calamity would be in store for everyone once she fully awoke.

Her eyes fluttered, and she looked up at you. It took her a few seconds to register that this was reality, and her eyes gew wide with shock.

"W-wait, Fluttershy, shush!" You said in a harsh whisper. She did nothing but nod. "Can you please help me?" You pleaded, gesturing your head to the harem clutching on to your appendages. She looked down and saw that she was grasping onto your arm.

FWOOMP!! Her wings suddenly extended to their full span. She was blushing a deep red as she stood. You relished in the fact you could move your arm again. Fluttershy walked over to the other side of the bed, and bent over Pinkie. She gently lifted her arm off of yours. You chuckled to yourself. Only Fluttershy could do something like that; her touch is as soft as a pillow, it was like you couldn't even feel her there. Relishing the release of your arms, you looked to Twilight and Rarity. You attempted to squirm out of their grasp, but was stopped by Dash. She tighened her grasp on your leg. You gasped as you felt her breasts push against your leg. Thank Celestia she's not on my 'side,' You thought to yourself.

***

"What happened last night...?" Was the most frequently asked question when everyone awoke. Everyone had a slight hangover, except for Applejack, who had crashed on the couch. She said they all weren't planning on staying the night, but after the 'incident' she couldn't just leave.

"Incident?" Twilight asked, rubbing her head with her palm.

"Ah think it's best you don' know..." She sighed. "All Ima say is that y'all can't hold yer alcohol fer nothin..."

"Alcohol...there was alcohol in that cider!?" Everyone shouted in unison. You facepalmed.

"Well duh, you couldn't tell?" You said with a sigh. You plopped down on the couch. "Never doing that again..."

"Well, what happened?" Fluttershy asked.

"Didn't AJ just say it was best you didn't know...Fine.'' You pointed to the harem that stole their way into your bed.

"You all got piss-wasted and started hitting on me, and when I tried to get away, you all tackled me, and then when I finally got away, you all grabbed a part of me and slept in the same bed as me."

In response, everyone's jaws hit the floor, excluding Applejack's. Fluttershy blushed deeply, squeaked, and hid her face behind her hands. "I-I did something like that!?" She asked in disbelief, voice muffled from her palms against her mouth.

"Hah, who knew I had the guts to do something like THAT?" Pinkie said, looking more suprised because of her gallancy rather than being embarrased. Twilight and Rarity looked at each other in shock.

"Heh, you can't say you didn't enjoy it," Dash said smugly.

You smile. "You're damn right I did."

***

It took a lot to get Fluttershy back to her usual self, usual self being the hard-to-look-at-you, blush-when-you-make-eye-contact person self she is. It'd been until evening until she could be in the same room as you without hiding her face behind her hands and muttering illegible apologies. Now, it was getting dark, and Fluttershy was about to hit the sack early.

Can I do this...? You thought to yourself as you watched her sit silently in the chair across from you. You had realized your feelings for her, but you were terrified to say anything. Dammit, why am I so shy now?

She stretched her arms and sighed, "I think I'll be heading to bed now..." She said softly.

"Hey...that's the first time you said something without stuttering today..." You chuckle to yourself. She blushed in return, and hurried off to her room.

Dammit...I just I had to say something, you mentally beat yourself. You fall onto the couch and, lying on your back, you stare at the ceiling.

Ok, I can do this. I love her. I do. Why? I'm not entirely sure, but I feel happy with her. I want to make her smile, I wanna make her as happy as she makes me...

You sighed. You didn't know why you were getting mushy all of a sudden, but you took it for what it's worth. I WILL say something to her soon...I will!

***

Fluttershy closed her bedroom door behind her. Not bothering to take off her clothes, she collapsed onto the bed and slid under the covers. She laid there and cried silent tears of frustration. She desparately wanted to tell him how she felt. Fluttershy tried to so many times, but only flushed cheeks and silence followed. She didn't even know if her felt the same. Why would he? He has the others after him...they're so much...morethan me...Rainbow Dash is the captian of the weather team, and Twilight's almost as good at magic as Princess Celestia...Rarity is immensely beautiful...Pinkie Pie, she can make anyone smile just by being in the same room as them...but me? I can't do anything...She was mentally beating herself up. Would she forever be tortured by this love? Fluttershy silently cried herself to sleep.

***

You were awoken in the middle of the night by thunks and rattles. You stood up in the darkness and opened the door to the hallway. You doubted that it was a burglar, but you were ready to tussle with any threat. Walking down the stairs, you surveyed the darkness in an attempt to detect any movement.

Clink, clink. You jumped slightly at the sudden noise. You look down and see a small ball of fuzz scuttling around. You exhaled in relief. It was just a kitten playing with one of its toys. You bent down and scratched him behind his ear. As you ascended back up the stairs, you noticed Fluttershy's door was open. You learned from your mistakes from last time you walked into her room unnanounced, but something was different this time. There was rustling coming from the opening. Begging that there wasn't a nude Fluttershy in her room, you peeked into her room.

Fluttershy was laying on her bed, tangled in the covers. You were hearing her wrestling match with the covers.

"You ok there 'Shy?" You asked. She instantly stopped, and you heard another sound. Sniffling. She turned around to look at you.

Tears streaked down her cheeks.

"Y-you ok?" You said, your voice showing more urgency. Fluttershy looked away, still sniffling. You kneeled in front of her to her, putting a hand on her shoulder. "What's wrong? Are you h-" Your question was cut off by her sudden embrace. She let loose the waterworks now, as she cried into your shoulder. You could do nothing but return the embrace in an attempt at comfort.

"Fluttershy, tell me what the hell is wrong," You demanded, "You're scaring me now."

You waited awhile for her to calm down. After a few minutes, she stopped crying, but she still held onto you. Despite the unusual circumstances, you enjoyed her warm embrace. You could feel her heartbeat palpate with haste, and you felt her breathe, her chest expanding and falling.

"Are you ok now?" You asked softly. She nodded and let go. Her wings had extended to their full span. You decided that it wasn't the best time to ask what that meant, so you stayed silent.

Go on you idiot, say something! This is the perfect moment to tell her! She friggin' glomped you for cryin' out loud!!

"Well, er, I uh, guess I'll be going back to bed n-"

"N-no, wait!" She suddenly exclaimed. "Please...don't go..." She looked down, blushing severly. You didn't know what exactly to do, so you did as asked. You sat down on the bed next to her. The two of you said nothing for a long while.

"Thank you..." She whispered. You looked at her questioningly, but you were sentenced to silence as she rested her head on her shoulder. You turned your head and hid a blush. This is like freakin' torture, You thought to yourself. You're subconscious pep-talker was right, this was the perfect to say something about your feelings.

After minutes that felt like hours passed, you heard Fluttershy's breathing turn into soft snores. You moved out from under her, and laid her gently down on the bed. You moved the covers over her, and watch her shift in her sleep. She settles down, and you sigh. You could've said something at that moment...

You begin to walk out the doorway, but turn around. You whisper, "Good night, 'Shy," as you silently shut the door. You treck back to your room, prepared to finally get some sleep.

Chapter 13

"You're kidding, right?"

"No! C'mon, let us make up for last time!"

Dash, Applejack and Twilight had caught up with you after you were done with work at the Sugarcube Corner, and were standing in front of you, hands on their hips. They were trying to persuade you to get together with everyone again, this time at Twilight's place.

"No, not after what happened last time. You know how long it took me to get Fluttershy back to normal? A damn long time, that's what." You continued to walk past them.

"C'mon, pleeeaaaase?" Twilight begged.

"Look, I'm sorry Twilight, but after the night before last, I just can't risk it. You all tried to get in my pants, dammit. It's too much stress for me!"

"Epee, you enjoyed it and you know you did!" Dash retorted, zipping in front of you.

"Regardless, I don't wanna scar Fluttershy anymore than she already is!" With that, you marched off.

"No alcohol, no nothin', we promise!" Applejack called out behind you.

"P-please, Epee? Please..." sounded out the most adorable begging voice you've ever heard. You slowly turned around to see Pinkie standing there, pulling an adorable puppy face.

"...Fine...dammit..." You said, defeated. Pinkie instantly changed from begging to ecstatic.

"Woohoo! Let's go!"

***

"I'm sorry, Fluttershy...Pinkie pulled a puppy face on me and..." You let the sentence dangle. It didn't need to be finished.

"I understand...as long as their isn't any alcohol like...last time." Fluttershy replied.

"Ah promise, there won' be any alcoholic beverages," Applejack said in her defence. Everyone was on the short trek to Twilight's library. There were many conversations discussing random topics, such as Rarity's newest dress, Applejack's apple sales, Fluttershy's newest pet. Her name was Misty, and she was a bunny, like Angel, but hella lot sweeter. Fluttershy gushed about her and Angel looking so cute together, and you added in that Angel looked so shy and sheepish around her. Everyone giggled at that remark, and began to discuss more sundry topics.

As you reached Twilight's library, your mind wandered to what was possibly in store for you tonight. Would everyone try to get into your pants again tonight, or will some other torturous, strangely arousing event occur?

"Spike?" Twilight called out. "Spike? Where are you, everypony's here!" Thunk, thud, clunk. Copious noises eminated from the room to the left. Twilight went to investigate, and found Spike collapsed in a heap of books.

"Spike, what happened?" She asked, concerned.

"I was restocking the shelves, and your sudden arrival made me jump, and, well..." He gestured to the clutter, "you know the rest."

"You're such a clutz Spike," Pinkie teased. Spike just grumbled. Twilight lifted the books with her magic and set them in a stack.

"You can deal with that later, let's relax for a bit."

***

It'd been only an hour or so since you all had arrived at Twilight's library, and, unlike last time, there was innocent good times being had. You had been able to converse with Spike for the first time.

"So, you don't remember anything?" Spike asked in wonder.

You sighed. You'd been sick of explaining this by now. "Yes Spike, minus a few things I've recalled, I don't remember anything."

"Dang," Spike said with a sigh. "That must suck."

"It does. Now, can we just get on with the fun stuff instead of this sad crap?" You said. You tried to hide your miffed outlook the best you could, but between Spike marvling over your amnesia, and the wariness of the girls, it was getting difficult. You were expecting some other strange occurance to torture you yet again.

"Hey, hey, I know what we can do!" Pinkie said, materializing from next to Rarity to beside you, causing you to jump. You asked what was getting her so hyped.

"Spin the bottle! I've always wanted to do that with somepony for some reason." Everyone stared at her with wide eyes.

"Oh heavens no!" Rarity protested. "Celestia knows what you'll make us do!"

"Yeah!" Dash joined in. "Remember last time we did something involving dares? I couldn't eat cupcakes for a week, and Twilight's horn got all squishy again.

"C'mon, it'll be fun!" Pinkie retorted. "I promise, no Poison Joke, and none of Applejack's failed cupcakes. Pleaaasse?"

"Failed cupcakes?" You asked.

"One day, durin' Applebuckin' season, I'd gone a couple days without sleep, and Pinkie asked me help make cupcakes, and, the didn' turn out so well..."

"Yeah, you put most of the town in the hospital!"

"Damn..." You said. Pinkie's dares sounded dangerous.

After much more begging, Pinkie got her wish of a game of truth or dare.

"The second any of you look at me funny, I'm gone. I don't need a repeat of last time." Everyone blushed a tad.

"Last time?" Spike asked. A mischevious grin broke across your face. Twilight, taking notice, protested greatly.

"No, Epee, w-" She stopped as she saw you lean over to Spike to whisper it to him. You explained the events of night before last.

The baby dragon's eyes grew wide.He glanced at Twilight in shock. "You tried to...with..."

You couldn't help but laugh.

"Let's get on with it already!" Pinkie complained. She brought a bottle out of nowhere and sat it down. Everyone gathered in a circle around it.

"G-go easy with the dares, alright?" Fluttershy said timidly.

"Ok, let's go!" Pinkie said, spinning the bottle. Seconds pass, and it slowed. It crept around until it halted, neck pointing at Spike.

"Spike!" Pinkie exclaimed. "TRUTH, or DARE?" Pinkie said ominously.

"U-um, truth," The dragon stammered out.

"Alright. Is it true that you have a crush on Rarity?" She asked, leaning in two inches from his face.

"Wh-what!?" He shouted, crawling away. "U-um, t-that's..." He glanced at Rarity.

"Do you?" She repeated.

He looked around nervously. Everyone's eyes were directed on him. Caving into the pressure, he cracked. He nodded, and fainted.

"Well. That was...interesting." You said bluntly. Rarity looked indifferent and confused.

"Seems the dragon's hot for ya, Rarity." You said. Rarity just sat there.

"Yes, quite..." She replied, dazed.

"Spike's out for the count!" She flicked the bottle again, this time harder. It spun like a clock's minute hand being wound. Eventually, it slowed to point at Twilight.

"TRUTH, or DARE?" Pinkie asked, staring at the dark haired student.

Twilight thought for a moment, and said, "Dare."

"Ooh, gettin' brave now are we?" You teased.

"I dare you..." Pinkie stopped to think. "To rest your head on Epee's lap!"

Twilight's eyes grew wide. "E-excuse me!?"

"Oh hell no!" You said, standing up. "What did I say? I ain't lettin' last time happen again!" Pinkie zipped in front of you.

"You ain't going nowhere!" She said as she dragged you back down to the circle with much protest from you.

"Twilight? You gonna do it?" Pinkie glared at her. She groaned and slid over to you. She mouthed a "Sorry" and slowly lowered her head. You closed your eyes and turned your blushing face away as you felt her head in your lap.

"This is strangely...comfy..." She said.

"Oh you gotta be freakin' kidding me," You whispered under your breath.

"Your sentence is up!" Pinkie exclaimed as she thwacked the bottle again. When it stopped, it pointed to Fluttershy. She squeaked and muttered out, "P-Please don't make me do anything embarrasing..."

"TRUTH...or...DARE?" Pinkie asked ominously.

After a long pause, Fluttershy chose dare.

"Ok Fluttershy, you have to sit on Epee's lap!" She exclaimed.

"Oh, come ON!" You shouted, immensely aggravated. Fluttershy looked at you, blushing immensely. She stood up, and slowy walked towards you, avoiding eye contact. She sat down next to you, still avoiding eye contact. "D-do I really have to...?" Fluttershy asked Pinkie.

"I know it's embarrasing, 'Shy, but am I that bad?"

"No, it's not that..." She murmured. Fluttershy inhaled and sat on your lap, but just barely.

"C'mon, closer! That won't do!" Pinkie instructed her. She squeaked and scooted up farther. Yet, she did so too vigorously and her back reached your chest. She gasped softly, realizing where she was. Everyone was wide-eyed.

"U-um...'Shy?" You asked, "Are you ok?" Silence followed. She quickly zipped off your lap, and sat next you, deadly silent.

"Well, how sweet. Spinning again!" Thwack! The bottle span again, this time landing on Pinkie herself.

"Aha!" Twilight shouted. "It's your turn! Truth or Dare!"

"Jeez, loud much..." Dash said.

"Dare!" Pinkie exclaimed, accepting the challenge.

"You rest your head on Epee's lap!" She said to your dismay.

"What the f- who's side are you ON anyways!?" You shouted. Pinkie materialized next to you, and laid her head on your lap.

"See Twilight, it's not that hard!"

The rest of the night continued like that; dares involving doing something intimate with you. Spike finally awoke, but only to faint again to see Rarity playing a flute without her hands or magic. Only a few truths were selected, which you believe was just a chance to be able to do something embarrasing to you. Once, Dash was dared to hug you while sitting down, which proved to be very erotic and torturous.

***

Celestia's golden sun was setting, making way for Luna to lift her moon to the sky.

"Well..." Applejack yawned, "Ah think we all should be headin' back, doncha think?"

"Yeah, I think after today, I need some sleep..." Twilight said, stifling a yawn. Everyone else agreed with the royal pupil. You all said your goodbyes, and you and Fluttershy set off to trek back to her cottage. Both of you were silent.

Fluttershy finally broke the silence. "I...I'm sorry for earlier, when I, um, you know, s-sat on your lap..." She grew quieter as the sentence went on.

"No, it's fine, it's not like you wanted to or anything; it's 'kay."

Fluttershy stayed silent.

"I...did..."

Those words shocked you more than a lighting bolt. You looked at her to see her blushing slightly. She...wanted to?

You looked around. You had left Ponyville, and you were on the pathleading to her cottage. No one was around. You two were alone. This could be the perfect time to say something.

You were devising what exactly to say, until you felt something brush against your hand. You glance down to see that Fluttershy was leaving almost no room between your bodies. You took the intiative, and grasped her hand in yours, not breaking stride. You heard her gasp, but not do anything. The two of you stayed that way all the way back home, you grasping her hand, her staying silent, face red as a radish.

Chapter 14

"When do we strike?"

"Not anytime soon. Because of your reckless riot, security around Czar has been highly increased."

"We are sorry, sir..."

"Oh shut it." Broad began to walk out of hut.

"What about Epee, sir? Isn't he still alive?" Asked a different member of Quarrel. Broad sighed.

"Yes, that reminds me. I shall be visiting Equestria again soon. Once he is gone, a lot of weight will be off our shoulders." Broad exited the hut. He began to trek out of Marvalia in the wee hours of the morning. It was almost time for Celestia to raise her sun, and Luna to lower hers.

Broad was thinking about how to exterminate Epee. He'd been spying on him for a couple of days, and he knew where he lived, and where he worked, he just needed to know a good time to kill him off. He settled with camping out near the place he lived and assasinating him when he was alone. An evil grin broke across his face as his plan began to come together. He would kill off Epee and Terra, and assasinate Czar and take the throne for himself, and be rid of Quarrel, erasing their existance, along with any trace of his involvement with the rebel faction. People would see him as the only survivor of royalty, and except his rule. His laugh echoed through Everfree forest.

***

As you awoke, you recalled the night before. The night trek home would stick in your memory forever. You had finally taken some intiative, however small it was. Fluttershy had slowly walked closer to you, soon leaving little space between the two of you. With a small burst of courage, you grabbed her hand in yours. And the best thing? She didn't protest.

Dear Celestia, you were in love. You laid in your bed, staring at the ceiling, loving the palpation of your heart. After a few more minutes of relishing, you decided it was enough, and you needed to ge up and around. You made your way downstairs to see Fluttershy looking like she was heading somewhere.

"You headin' out somewhere, 'Shy?" You ask. She jumps slightly, and turns to face you. She was blushing and avoiding eye contact as usual.

"U-um, yes, I-I'm heading out to buy some more food for the animals...See you, um, in a while," She said as she went to leave. Just before leaving, she turns and wave. You return the wave, and walk into the living.

Now what do I do? You asked yourself. Finding an answer, you plop down back into the couch and began to relish in your love yet again.

Three loud heavy knocks pound on the door. It sounded to loud and rowdy to be Fluttershy, so you cautiously approach the door.

Crash! A large, buff man busted through the door. He looked like he had spent most of his time weight-lifting.

"Woah, what the hell is wrong with you?!" You screamed, jumping back. "Who the hell are you?"

"Don't try to weasel out of this, Epee, stop playing dumb!"

"What the hell? How do you know my name!?" You demanded, your voice containing fear and confusion.

The man chuckled. "I can't tell if you're playing dumb, or serious." With that, the man pulled out a long dagger, and slashed at you.

"Woah!!" You shouted as you dodged the attack.

"Still slippery, aren't we? Hahaha, this is gonna be fun!!" He cackled as he swiped a few more times. You dodged and ducked, and jumped into the kitchen. You were seriously confused, but since a bigass buff dude was trying to kill you, you had to defend yourself. He stabbed at you, and you sidestepped. A glint of reflection of light caught your eye; a deadly looking kitchen knife was partially unsheathed from a wooden rack of kitchen knives. You snatched it out, and took a defensive stance.

"Great, you're putting up a fight. This is gonna interesting!" The man slashed at you again. You blocked the strike with your knife, and returned the slice. He blocked, and stabbed. You batted the blade away with a quick swipe of you knife, and held the blade in a backhanded. You sliced left to right, and vice versa. He dodged both, and returned with a slice of his own. It grazed your shirt. You launched a punch that landed squarely in his jaw. He stepped back and grunted in pain. The man pulled a spin kick, attempting to trip you up. You somersaulted ove him, kicking him in the back once you made it over him, using him as a springboard. When you landed, you felt a hand on your shoulder. He recovered that quick!? He launched you into the wall. You grunted in pain as you smacked against it. You heard rapid footsteps, and, knowing that the man was charging, you rolled to your left. The man's dagger dug into the wall where your head was seconds before. You retaliated, stabbing at the man. He dodged yet again.

The two of you kept this up for quite awhile. Stabbing, slashing, dodging...

***

Fluttershy was making her way bag to her cottage. Dash had told her that a storm was scheduled to contrast with the recent dry days. She realized that it'd be best to head back to the cottage. That, and she wanted to spend some more time with Epee. After the whole hand-holding incident, she wanted to get a chance for something like that to happen again. She might be able to confess her feelings to him. The storm might even add a more romantic feeling to the day. Celestia knows that if she hears any thunder, she'll make some fearful noise and cling to the nearest thing. And by nearest thing, she meant Epee. She giggled at the thought of being in Epee's embrace...

Her joyful outlook was duly shattered by sounds of a struggle in her cottage.

***

You were tired from the half an hour of constant fighting. The man showed small signs of fatigue, but never let up. You had a cut across your cheek from a slice of his dagger.

"Tch, done already? My, I'm almost sad about having to kill you; It's been so boring fighting you."

"E-Epee!? Are you alright? What's going on!?" Fluttershy was standing in the doorway, eyes wide in fear.

"Fluttershy, get out of here, find help!!" You demanded.

"Aww, is that your new girlfriend? After I'm finished with you, I'll kill her too."

Rage. Unbareable rage bubbled inside of you as those words were spoken. No, your mind echoed, you will NOT touch her.

"I dare you. I fucking dare you. TOUCH HER AND I WILL FUCKING MURDER YOU!!" You screamed at him. His smug face quickly turned to one of fear. His eyes widened when he saw you charge at him with amazing speed, and began slashing and cutting. The man block and parried your slashes, but you left him no room to do otherwise. You managed to cut him across chest. Your knife glistened with blood. You planted a kick to his gut, causing him to stmble back. You flung the knife at him. He slashed it away, but didn't have time to react to your next move. You grabbed an umbrella from a rack near you, one with a sharp metal tip, and charged. You swung, swiped, and bashed the man in rage. He dodged most of the him, but you still managed to connect some. The man stumbled, and you took the advantage to attack him while he was open. You kicked him in the chest with astounding strength, sending him flying out the door. Fluttershy had moved away from the doorway long before.

The man, obviously seeing that he was in over his head, fled the scene. You were standing there, panting. You dropped the umbrella, and walked out the door. You saw Fluttershy standing there in shock. You approached her, and put a hand on her shoudler. Her face became distorted as you suddenly lost conciousness.

***

"Broad, go easy on him!!" Terra shouted. Broad stood above you, holding a fencing saber. You lay on the ground, beaten and exausted.

"C'mon, you gonna go down that easily?" He teased. You stood up and took an offensive stance.

"Ready when you are, bub." With that, you charged and restarted the training session.

***

You shot straight up in bed. You were drenched in sweat, and you felt sore and exausted.

"Epee, you're ok!" A voice called out, frightening you. You turn to see Fluttershy sitting at your bed-side. Her cheeks were wet from what were most likely tears, and her eyes were tinted red. She tackled you in a hug and cried into your shoulder. You dazedly hugged her back. It took a few minutes for her to calm down.

"I-I thought I lost you...you just fainted after you..." She let the sentence dangle.

You'd had it. You had almost lost your life, and then your feelings would have been forever kept a secret. This had given you courage. You stood up to face Fluttershy, who looked confused. Instantly, her pupils shrunk in shock, as if she knew what was bout to come. In a span of a second and a half, you extended your arms and pulled her close. Not a hug of comfort or an embrace of fear, but an intimate, loving hug. Fluttershy said nothing, still probably in shock.

"Fluttershy," You said, softly and seriously, "I don't know how to explain what I'm trying to show, so I'm going to put bluntly." You inhaled. This is it. You would finally say what had been eating at you for so long.

"I lo-"

"Fluttershy! Epee! Are you alright!?" Voices called from downstairs. It seems Twilight was at the doorway downstairs.

"Epee, I had sent one of my pets to contact Twilight for help...I, I-m sorry..." She whispered. You let her go. Shit!! Again!? Does fate hate me this much!? It seemed some higher force refused to let you voice your feelings.

You had made your way downstairs with Fluttershy to meet Twilight.

"What happened?" She asked, looking at the mess. The door was cracked and hanging on one hinge, and a wall in the kitchen had a circular dent from your launching into it.

You took the time to explain what had happened. You said that a man claiming to know you attacked. He said that he was the one that'd attacked you in the forest as well. Why, you didn't know. You just knew that he was the cause of everything that'd happened. You had also informed her about your most recently recalled memory.

"I'm going to write a letter to Princess Celestia. I should've done so earlier, but it kept slipping my mind. We'll research these names, and we'll try to find this out. We'll see if we can help you at all." She reassured you. It helped a little bit, but it still left it's mark on you.

"Hold on, I'll clean this mess up," She added as she stood up. Her horn began to glow, and the damages repaired themselves. The door's crack dissapeared, and it straightened out, the hinge being reassembled. The dent in the wall popped out, making a small pock noise.

"Well, that looked easy," You said with a sigh. You grunted in pain as you tried to sit down in a chair.

"Are you hurt?" Fluttershy and Twilight asked in unison.

"No, I'm just sore from the whole thirty-straight-minutes-of-fighting thing..." You muttered. After awhile, Twilight began to head back. You found yourself alone with Fluttershy again, but you had no courage anymore. You were immensly demoralized from the recent turn of events.

***

You were sitting with Fluttershy on her bed, holding her, stroking her head slowly as she cried. She'd had a nightmare, one that had made her wake up crying in the middle of the night. her face was buried in your chest, the shirt over it damp with her tears.

Fluttershy's crying had ceased. "I'm sorry, I-I must've cried a lot today..." She whispered apoligetically.

"No, your fine..." Fluttershy was still laying her head on your chest. Even though the circumstances were strange, you enjoyed it. You wished that you could've only confessed to Fluttershy in time, so you could've finally been out with it.

"Um...is it okay if you tell me what you were going to say earlier today, if that's, um, alright with you..." She asked.

Aw hell. Of course she would ask that now.

"I'll tell you tomorrow, I'm sorry, but, it's not the right time to say it..." What the hell are you talking about? It's the perfect time! Just look at the two of you! She's falling asleep on you, literally. Do you realize how intimate you two look?

"Oh...ok...then..." She said before she fell asleep. She was sleeping with her head on your chest, hand clutching onto your shirt. You took a note on how adorable she looked. You knew it was best to let her sleep alone, but you couldn't help it. You held her tightly in her sleep, preparing to drift off as well.

"I love you, Fluttershy..."

Chapter 15

Fluttershy had the best dream. She dreamed that she was asleep in Epee's embrace, and he had said he loved her. Too bad that she had awoken from that amazing dream. She opened her eyes and yawned. Then gasped in shock.

It wasn't a dream. Epee had his arms tightly wrapped around her, and was sleeping soundly. He had stayed with her after her nightmare. She rubbed her head when she recalled her nightmare. It was about the man attacking Epee, yet this time, he had succeeded in killing him. It'd terrified her. But it seemed that her supposed wonderful dream was reality, which contrasted with the nightmare.

When the sudden realization hit her again, her eyes widened. Had Epee really told her he loved her? She didn't know what to make of that, so Fluttershy just relaxed, and took the blissful moment while it was there.

"I...love you, Epee..." She said quietly.

***

You gradually awoke to find Fluttershy still asleep on you. It killed you to move, but it was morning, and sooner or later, Fluttershy would feel it, and that would've been quite awkward. That and Fluttershy would be more scarred than she already is.

"Um, Fluttershy?" You whispered. She stirred and awoke slowly. "I think we, er, better get up," You said awkwardly. Your brain was struggling to operate with the pure imbodiment of innocence slumbering on you. All she did was nod.

***

You had showered and indulged in a little breakfast, and you were preparing to head to the Sugarcube Corner for work. You opened the door to see something you had least expected.

Standing at the door way were two alicorn women, one wearing all and white, and the other wearing all black. The one weaing all white was standing with her fist outstretched, as if she were about to knock on the door. You jumped back in suprise.

"Are you, by chance, Epee?" The white clad one asked in an angelic voice. Twilight peeked around from behind the white clad one.

Twilight said she would explain in a second, and led the two alicorns into the room. "Could you go get Fluttershy?" Twilight asked. You vacantly nodded and walked up the stairs. You beckoned her and led her downstairs.

"P-Princess Celestia!?" You exclaimed, your mouth agape.

"And Princess Luna," Twilight added. You took a deep breath to calm yourself down.

"I recieved Twilight's letter about you." Celestia said. "I have looked in my records, and I do not see trace of you. You are not a citizen of Equestria." She still retained her soothing voice, but she was still deadly serious.

"But, you do not seem violent. If you were, you would've done something by now. That, and you must know you would face me if you had tried to hurt anyone. And facing an alicorn isn't exactly a picnic." She chuckled. You nervously let out a solitary laugh. Facing the deity of the sun would be a scary thought, but she said it so plainly. This princess was serious buisness.

"Yes, o-of course..." You stammered.

"Excuse my sister, her sense of humor is...unique," Princess Luna sighed.

"You know you would have it no other way, Luna," Celestia retorted. The two chuckled. You were still sitting uncomfortably in a chair, your knees to your chest with your arms wrapped around your knees Having the two royal sisters in your midst wasn't exactly comforting.

"Come now, you must loosen up, we're not here to hurt you," Luna said, using her telekinesis to unfurl your legs and arms. You meeped pitifully in fear as you felt the magic creep around you.

"Are you afriad of us, Epee?" Celestia asked bluntly. You nodded. She chuckled.

"Don't be, we promise we aren't here to hurt you," She said in a soothing voice. Luna nodded behind her. "We're hear to clear things up."

"We looked up Broad as well, but again, no records of him. You both seem to come from a different kingdom."

"That much doesn't seem to suprise me, though," You sighed. "Where are the possible candidates, though? I mean, if that guy got here through Everfree, which sounds like a big place, it can't be too far right?"

"Correct, but..." Luna said sadly, "we have our hands full with a lot at the castle..."

"What do you mean?" You asked.

"Many reports of arson have been popping up at Canterlot..." Twilight said softly.

"What?! Was anyone hurt?" You asked in shock.

Celestia looked down sadly. "Only a few, but no deaths. It still brings a handful for us to handle...we can't do much to help you...we are sorry."

You sighed. You had to deal with this alone.

"But, we can do something. It was told to us that you are very proficient at fighting, correct?" Celestia asked. You nodded.

"In one of my memories I recalled, I was fencing with Broad. Don't ask why, cuz I don't know."

"Hm...I have an idea. I will send you one of my knights to help you brush up on your skills. That will suffice I assume."

Your eyes grew wide. "O-Of course! That'd be a huge help, thank you!" You gushed. You would've hugged her if she wasn't an all-powerful sun goddess. She smiled.

"Good. We'll be back soon to check on your progress." With that, the sun and moon goddesses said their goodbyes and left the cottage.

"Well that was...eventful," You sighed. It took a couple seconds to realize something.

"Aw crap, I'm late for work!!" You shouted as you started to bolt out the door.

"Wait!" Twilight yelled. "We told Mr. and Mrs. Cake what had happened, you're off for the next couple of days."

"Oh." You said. You sat down on the couch next to Fluttershy.

"Well, I think I need to go. Spike might be worried; I ran out without an explanation. Bye," At that, she departed.

You were left with an uncomfortable silence with Fluttershy. As much as you wanted to tell her your feelings, you couldn't muster the courage. You decided it was best to just take a rest. Mentally, you were exausted, despite it being almost noon.

"W-wait," A soft voice said. You turned to Fluttershy. She was looking down to the floor, avoiding eye contact.

"What?" You asked.

After a long silence, she muttered, "N-nevermind."

"No, you wanted to tell me something. What is it?" You walked up to her. She still avoided eye contact, which worried you.

"Are you alright, or, do you need something. I mean, wh-"

"No, seriously, I'm fine," She said, louder. Her volume made you stop.

"Oh, ok..." You said. You turned and walked over to the stairs.

"N-no, I'm sorry, I didn't mean-"

"No no, it's fine, I promise." You walked up the stairs, into your room, and collapsed onto the bed.

Ok, this is it, I will tell her when the mood is right. This is it. No more delays. Fluttershy will know how I feel!

***

Fluttershy sat down onto the couch with a sigh. She laid down on it's green cushions and curled into a ball. She wanted to tell Epee to stay with her, but her shyness stopped her. She wanted to tell him how she felt, that she loved him, but some higher force prevented her from voicing it. The secret was killing her. She wanted, more than anything, to tell Epee she loved him. She didn't even care if he didn't feel the same way, she just wanted to tell.

Oh no, She thought, alarmed, to herself. She began to think about what would happen if Epee didn't feel the same. It would ruin whatever friendship we have. Oh no... She laid on the couch as the tears flowed silently.

***

Knock, knock, knock. You stretched as you walked sleepily to the door to answer the knocking. The previous day, after Princess Celestia and Princess Luna had left, went on uneventful.

You opened the door to see a tall, armor-clad, soldier standing at the door. His size took you by suprise.

Who, er, who are you?" You asked warily.

"I am preator of the guard, Tactic. Princess Celestia sent me here to help you brush up on your fencing."

"Oh, uh, yeah, that was quick..." You said under your breath. "Come...in?" The soldier had short brown hair, a scarred face, and dark green eyes. There was one exceptionally prominent scar cutting vertically across his nose.

"Um...when did Princess Celestia send you?" You ask

Fluttershy had come down once she heard your voice, and gasped slightly when she saw the buff soldier in her house.

"So, do we just start now?" You asked.

"Certainly. I brought the weapons needed, come with me; we'll train in the yard." You followed him outside, and saw the swords laying on the ground. "Okay, let's get started."

***

Tactic had suited you up in light armor and handed you a longsword. It felt like it weighed as much as you, and was as tall as you.

"Take your stance!" He instructed. You attempted to lift the sword, but it was too heavy. You managed to lift the tip of the blade a foot off of the ground, but it dropped back onto the dirt.

"H-how much does this sword weigh?" You asked, struggling to lift it.

"One hundred and seventy pounds," He said bluntly.

"W-What!? How do you expect me to fight with this bigass thing?"

Tactic sighed and snatched the sword from your hand, and tossed it to the ground a few feet away as if it weighed nothing. He picked up a smallsword, about a yard long, and handed it to you. "Maybe this will suite you."

You grabbed the sword and tested it's weight. It felt light enough. You swung the blade, spinning it about, tossing it into the air, and catching it. "I think this'll do nicely."

"Okay. Take your stance!" For the next hour, you trained nonstop. You remembered the basics, so all you needed to do was to go full out. As you pressed each other, sparks from the colliding blades flew about, the sound of metal against metal echoed through the trees. You felt Fluttershy's eyes on you as you fought. You remembered what Broad had said.

"When I'm through with you, I'll kill her."

The rage you felt surged within you yet again, and you put up a bigger fight. Tactic struggled to keep up with your speed. If you couldn't overpower him with strength, you would do so with your speed.

Finally, Tactic gave in. Your acrobatic speed dominated his slow, brute strength.

"Amazing...you sure...you've never...seen the battlefield?" Tactic sputtered while gasping for air.

"If I have...I don't remember..." You said, tired as well.

"Still, you have amazing skill. I shouldn't be suprised, seeing as your cutie mark is two fencing swords crossed, correct?"

You nodded. He'd seen your cutie mark once you took off your shirt to change into a more loose one.

"Well...it seems there's nothing more I can do for you. I didn't expect you to come back to full form so quickly..."

"Thanks a lot, I feel more confident." You straightened up, and walked over to Tactic. "Here's your sword back."

"No, you keep it, it fits you well." He stood. "If you would like, I'll come back again to keep you in shape."

"I'd like that," You replied.

"Also, I shall look more deeply into the royal records. Her Highness is very busy with the arson reports in Canterlot to focus on other things right now, so I shall handle this. Oh, and one last thing. That girl," Tactic flicked his head in Fluttershy's direction, "you do know she's completly in love with you right?"

"W-what?" You said, averting your eyes.

"You know it. She's been staring at you the entire time as if you were the most amazing thing in the world. Don't keep her waiting." He cleared his throat. "I'll be taking my leave now. Good day." With that he turned, holding his bag of weaponry and armor, and began the trek back to Canterlot.

Despite the recent conversation, only one thing stuck out in your mind the most.

You really wanted to take a shower.

Chapter 16

This is it. The confession scene. Pure romance in this chapter, so sorry if it turns out short.

All of you who have been, "GODDAMN PLOT WALLS EPEE Y U NO TELL FLUTTERSHY U LOVE HER" this is the chapter you've all been waiting for.

So what the hell are you doing reading this? Read the friggin chapter!

***

You had toweled yourself dry after your shower and dressed in some clean clothes. You thought back to what Tactic said; "Don't keep her waiting." You sighed as you pulled the baggy white T-shirt over your head. You weren't meaning to keep her waiting, but you didn't have the balls to say anything. And the times you did, she was either asleep, or some bullcrap coincidence stopped you halfway.

You stopped dwelling on it and went into your room. You plopped down onto the bed and stared at the ceiling vacantly. You filed through different methods on how to tell Fluttershy you felt in your head. After devising and trashing your ideas for long enough, you gave up.

Here's an idea, you thought to yourself, How about just putting a lid on that noggin of yours and just let it happen naturally? You walked downstairs to grab something to drink to see Fluttershy asleep on the couch. You smiled to yourself. She looked so beautiful and peaceful. You blushed and kept walking by, thinking it was a tad creepy staring at her while she was asleep. You downed a small bottle of apple juice and threw it's empty container in the trashcan. You glanced at Fluttershy on the way back, being able to see her face this time around. You walked up to her and kneeled down. You heard her soft breathing as you brushed away a loose hair with the back of your fingers. Deciding to grow a pair, you picked her up and began to walk up the stairs. You were going to take her back to her room so she can sleep in comfort instead of being curled and cramped on the couch.

You set Fluttershy gently down on her bed. It was in the early hours, but you decided to just let her nap. You walked back into your room and proceeded to laze for a while until Fluttershy awoke.

***

Fluttershy was awake the entire time. When she heard Epee come into the living room, she froze. She didn't know why, but she didn't want want Epee to see her awake. When Epee picked her up, her heart skipped a beat. It was something she never expected in a millenia. Yet at the same time, it was the best feeling she'd ever felt. Fluttershy'd never felt more safe in her lifetime. Despite the bliss, her feelings were still conflicting. She was frustrated immensely because if she told Epee how she felt and he didn't feel the same, any friendship they already had would be ruined. She wanted to tell him, but she didn't want to at the same time. This massive war had been raging in her head for along time, and the recent events didn't do much to pacify the bombardment of emotions ravaging her mind.

Being set down on the bed, being torn away from Epee's arms, was a horrid experience for her. Watching him go was equally painful as well. Being in his embrace was the best thing Fluttershy had felt. The next was her love for him.

***

A little over an hour had passed, and Fluttershy sat up and stretched. She had laid in her bed, falling in and out of sleep. Deciding it was time to get some things done, she walked downstairs and proceeded to fill all of the bowls with food and water for the animals. She did so without her normally cheery expression like she had whenever she was with her animals. Her mind was on Epee the entire time.

Finished with the food, Fluttershy stepped outside to tend to the chicken coop. She stopped in her tracks when she heard a strange sound. She turned to see Epee practicing his swordfighting. He took an offensive stance, then slashed. Sometimes the slices were simple, like two cuts left and right, or one upward-diagnol swipe. Others were more intracate; a leftward slash, followed by a feint. A straight, upward slash, then shifting the weight and then pulling a 360 spin slash, ended by three quick thrusts. Fluttershy sat and marveled as Epee practiced his fencing abilities. He's really talented at that, She thought to herself. She blushed and hid her face a little bit behind her hair when he turned and spotted her. He smiled and waved. Fluttershy returned the wave, and then he returned to his practice.

With the chickens fed, eggs gathered, and the general love and kindness Fluttershy radiated equally distributed to them, she dusted off her jeans and walked back into the house. Nothing was needed to be done; animals' food bowls were filledd, chicken's eggs were collected, the house's interior was nice and clean thanks to the combined efforts of her and Epee, who strangly enjoyed cleaning. Or at least Fluttershy thought so. She pondered on what she should do next.

She walked into the bathroom and looked at herself in the mirror. Am I pretty? She asked herself. Fluttershy looked at her small figure. Her tiny body was thin and curveless. She never thought about her looks much before. Does Epee find me attractive? Fluttershy remembered contemplating this when Epee walked in on her getting dressed once. He's never said anything before... The last thing Fluttershy wanted to do was ask him. Do I really wanna find out this badly? She asked herself. Grabbing her coat, she prepared to head out into Ponyville.

***

Fluttershy descended from her flight. She didn't want to take too long, so she flew the trip to save time. She approached Carousel Boutique and entered. Rarity greeted her; "Fluttershy, dear, I heard what had happened, are you alright?" She said, approaching her. "I was caught up in so much, I couldn't do much to help, I-I-"

"No, I'm fine, really," Fluttershy assured her. After much of assuring Rarity that she was fine, she finally was able to get to the reason she was here.

"So, Fluttershy, how may I help you?" Rarity asked.

"I, um, wanted to ask you something..." Fluttershy shyly replied.

"What is it darling?"

"Um, I don't really know how to put this..." Fluttershy murmured.

"If it's embarrasing, you can tell me, dear, I won't tell a soul." Rarity assured her.

"Am..am I...am I p-pretty?" Fluttershy muttered, hiding her face behind her hair.

Rarity just looked at her, flabbergasted. She chuckled.

"Well of course you are, dear, why would ever question that?" Rarity told her.

"Don't try to sugarcoat it just because I'm your friend," Fluttershy said, her voice raising a tad, "please...I need a straight answer..."

"Not until you tell me why you're so bothered about it," Rarity said, putting on a stern voice.

It took Fluttershy a couple seconds to be able to say it. "I-I wanna know if I'm attrractive t-to Epee..." She muttered.

Rarity took a deep breath. "Fluttershy, whether Epee finds you attractive or not is ultimately decided by Epee himself. But, whether you're attractive or not doesn't matter. True love is emotional. Yes, maybe being pretty is good for being able to get closer to a man you like, or to get him to notice you, or for self-esteem, but that's all. Never have feelings for someone because of their looks."

"B-but..." Fluttershy murmured, "look at you...you have a beautiful figure, an hourglass body, large breasts, the list can go on forever. Epee would probably be more interested in y-"

"Don't you say it!" Rarity cut her off. "Don't short sell yourself. So what if I have big boobs, or a nice body? None of that matters! Most of all, don't short sell Epee. If you're saying he would much rather be interested in me than in you, then you have no faith in him." Rarity sighed. "You know that we love Epee. Meeting Epee was one of the highlights of my life. Ever since Sky Liner, I've given up on love. But after meeting Epee, I've begun to believe in love again. Even if we can never be together, I'm not going to watch another heart break. He loves you, and you love him. If you don't believe me, then go and find out for yourself. He cares about you more than anything, Fluttershy. It would kill him to see you selling yourself short like this. You want me to answer your question? You're beautiful." Fluttershy gasped lightly at the compliment. "Everything about you is beautiful. Your looks, your personality, everything. Now I want you to go and find out for yourself whether he holds feelings for you."

After a long pause, Fluttershy finally speaks up. "Thank you Rarity, it means a lot." She thanked her. Rarity smiled in return,

"I'm glad I could help. Now go, tell him how you feel."

Fluttershy smiled to herself as she waved goodbye to Rarity. After she exited Carousel Boutique, Fluttershy took flight and began to head back to her home.

***

You leaned your sword against the wall in your room. You had just finished practicing a little bit more after you'd taken Fluttershy to her room. She'd come outside as well if you'd remembered correctly. She'd gone out to do some other things, you assumed. Rubbing your sore arm, you laid on your bed and stared at the ceiling.

It's been long enough, You thought to yourself, I was almost killed the other day, and my feelings for Fluttershy would continue to be a secret forever. I was almost torn away from her forever. That's enough incentive. Today, Fluttershy will know how I feel! You sat up in bed, a confident aura about you. I swear it!

You heard the door open and close. It seems Fluttershy had returned home. You went downstairs to greet her.

"Oh, you're back. What didja go out for?" You asked innocently.

"O-oh, nothing, just to, um, talk to Rarity..." She murmured.

"About?" You pressed.

"N-nothing important, really..."

"Oh. Okay." You sighed. Nothing interesing after all. You walked into the living room and sat down on the couch with a sigh. The prior bravura you boasted had depleted by now.

Few hours passed with nothing interesting happening. You and Fluttershy talked a bit about nothing in particular, and the personal swearing of the confession of your feelings seemed not to be in the near future.

Suddenly, a weight was felt on your shoulder. You quickly glance to it, and your eyes widened when you saw the cause.

Fluttershy, who was sitting next to you, had rested her head on your shoulder. You didn't remember her being so close to you; she must've slowly scooted over to you without your noticing. Your cheeks grew hot as she neglected to lift her head. You couldn't tell if she was asleep or if she had suddenly discarded her shy exterior and boldly made a move. Few minutes passed, and Fluttershy was still resting her head on her shoulder. She hadn't moved a muscle ever since then. You'd looked around the room, trying to get your mind off of the weight on your left shoulder. As you did so, you felt yourself grow gradually tired. In no time, you had found yourself struggling to keep your eyes open. After a few seconds, your determination to stay awake crumbled, and unconsciousness overtook your body.

***

Fluttershy's eyes fluttered and opened as she awoke from her nap. Sunlight failed to beam into the living room, showing signs of evening time. The last thing she remembered was resting her head on Epee's shoulder. Now she felt like she was at an angle.

She was. In her and Epee's sleep, the latter leaned over and slept on his back, taking Fluttershy with him. She was asleep on Epee, his arm around the small of her back, she, clutching onto his shirt. Fluttershy didn't know what to do; she was afraid that if she moved, Epee would awake, and the awkwardness would flare, and they would go about the rest of the day avoiding each other. To a mix of her dismay and joy, Fluttershy chose to stay where she was, not moving a muscle. She hoped the levels of awkwardness when Epee awoke wouldn't be too high.

***

Consciousness returned to your body as your eyes slowy creaked open. You didn't mean to take a nap, but the sudden wave of sleepiness was overwhelming. You stared blankly at the living room ceiling. The last thing you remember was Fluttershy resting her head on your lap, and your confusion of what to do-

Oh crap. Shoulder. You were upright when you had fallen asleep. How come you're staring at the ceiling? Why is there a weight on your chest-

Aw crud. You looked down to see Fluttershy laying on your chest, clutching lightly on your shirt. Then, she stirred. She looked up at you, and you traded looks of shock. Quickly, Fluttershy squeaked and rushed up, about to dive away somewhere. Without thinking, you grabbed her hand to prevent her from leaving. She stopped, and slowly turned her head back to you, holding a look of confusion. She was sitting straight up, legs on either side of your waist. Her hand felt so warm in yours.

I've had it. The moment is right. No more delays dammit!

You sat up, your face mere inches away from hers. Fluttershy did nothing but look back into your eyes in confusion. In seconds that felt like individual eternities, you admired her light blue eyes.

"Fluttershy," You said softly, "I don't know how to put this, so I'm just going to say it straight." You tightened your grip around Fluttershy's lower back, pressing her body against yours. You felt her warm breath against your nose, your faces now little over an inch apart. "I love you more than anything. Being in your presence makes me happier than I can ever imagine. Nothing in this world can bring me more joy than being with you." Those words flowed from you as if you'd rehearsed for hours on end, yet in reality, they popped into your mind nanoseconds before speaking them. All Fluttershy could do is stare back into your eyes, apparently unable to react to the words spoken to her.

Not wanting to break the flow, you did something that you'd been wanting to do ever since you'd first realized your feelings for her. You closed your eyes, and brought the distance between your and Fluttershy's lips to zero. You lightly pressed you lips against hers. For seconds, creeping by like millenia, you held contact to Fluttershy's soft lips. The feeling you obtained from this experience was a thousand times better than you ever could've hoped.

After those millenia-like seconds, you broke lip contact. Fluttershy stared in complete shock back at you. In a flash of movement, Fluttershy returned the favor, pressing her lips to yours. She wrapped her hands around your neck, pulling you closer.

For the rest of the night, the two of you stayed on the couch.

Chapter 17

Silence plagued the royal archives as Tactic filed through folders, files and reports at a lonely. Princess Celestia had skimmed through them, but not to a great extent. Tactic had all the time in the world to sift through the archive. The soldier jumped at any word or name that began with a 'E' or 'B,' thinking it had been Epee or Broad. The only sound heard throughout the expansive archive was the sound of filed paper, the footsteps of Tactic traveling to the ceiling-tall shelves and back to the desk, and the occasional random cough.

Hours passed of the repetitve searching and filing, until Tactic stumbled upon a seemingly innocent letter. It was dated this time around 30 years ago. The sender was someone named Czar. The letter was stucked neatly into it's envelope, showing signs of being undisturbed for many years, maybe ever since it was recieved. The reciever herself was Princess Celestia. In pure curiousity, Tactic slipped the letter out. He began to read the letter, curiousity building. After he finished, Tactic remembered seeing more envelopes like this one in the small box it was found in. He hurried back to it, opening it and grabbing all of the similar envelopes. He hastily opened them, reading their contents.

Tactics eyes were wide and in shock after having read all of the letters sent by a man named Czar. I must hurry and tell Epee! thought Tactic as he hurried back to Fluttershy's cottage, letters in hand.

***

You thought back to last night as you walked back from Sugarcube Corner. Despite everyone's protest, you decided you'd been off long enough. Even though you would've loved to stay home just another day to be with Fluttershy, you needed to get back on the job. You smiled to yourself as the events of last night came back into your mind. Despite the strange circumstances, you were glad you finally confessed. It was a strange one, considering you'd done so on a couch. But no matter, the event that took place next was one for the books. The rest of the night was spent on that couch, where your first kiss took place. Even though you can't remember specific events, you can remember emotions, or actions you've done. And you know for a fact you've never had a kiss, until then. And you vowed that's all that would happen; you couldn't bring yourself to go all the way.

"Epee!!" A gruff voice shouted, trying to get your attention. You turned to see Tactic running towards you, holding some papers.

"Oh, hey Tactic, you okay?" You asked, seeing that he was rather excited.

"I...found something...about you...in Her Highness's archives..." The large soldier sputtered out. He handed you to papers, that turned out to be envelopes. You snatched them looked at the dingy white face. You looked back up at him wearing a face of shock. After he caught his breath, Tactic pointed to a specific. "That's the first one. Read it."

***

Czar to Celestia, 30 years ago

Dear Celestia,

King Czar; nice title, don't you think? Has a nice little ring to it. Being the king of a country, no matter how small, is an arduous task. Why am I complaining, you rule the largest country in the world don't you? Yet, you've been ruler of Equestria for some time now, you must be used to the whole 'ruler' thing. This is going to be difficult, having to change rulers all the time. Mortals like ourselves aren't exactly fit to be rulers. You're an alicorn, so you can rule Equestria for eternity...Well, I guess it's a good idea Marvalia is so small then, huh? It's been difficult ever since I've had to take leave from Equestria though...I've never been a likeable one, I don't have many people I can place my trust in. Except you of course. You'd always had my back, no matter whatever trouble I'd been in. I hope to hear back from you soon.

Czar to Celestia, 23 years ago

Dear Celestia,

I found out today that I am sterile. I have no family to rely on after I pass. There is no way for me to attain an heir. You must understand how distraught I am. Marvalia will be in anarchy after I am gone. It's also a problem that I don't have you here with me. You always comforted me whenever something was troubling me, no matter how severe or trivial. Now, I need you here more than anything, Celestia. I'm sorry I write them letters so seldomly, but with all that's happening, I can't even find the time...

Czar to Celestia, 12 years ago

Dear Celestia,

The fates must have taken pity upon me. Three children, named Epee, Broad, and Terra lost their families yesterday. I've taken them into the castle. I think they could be the next to rule. I'm not sure which one of them exactly, but it's possible. I would like to think I did this out of the kindness of my heart, but I know it was for my own selfish desires. Please forgive me...You always told me to think of others, Celestia. I try, but I always feel like I'm using others for my own gain.

Czar to Celestia, 9 years ago

Dear Celestia,

My time on this world has been drastically shortened. I have been told that I have a fatal disease that will kill me in no less than 10 years. Epee, one of the orphans I took in, shows great potential of being the next ruler, but he will be so young by the time I pass. I've neglected to tell any of them as well. They've come to think of me as a father, and I've come to think of them as my children. They are what I've needed for the longest time. Family. I can rely on them for anything, and they can rely on me. My trust is in them completely. It would break my already feeble heart to tell them that I will soon be gone...

Czar to Celestia, 9 years ago

Dear Celestia,

My people have betrayed me. Because of neighboring tribes attacking traders and merchants that supply us, my people think that I'm holding the goods for myself. They've caused many disturbances, damaging property mostly, and I've had to increase taxes to pay for it, yet they believe that I'm trying to get rich off of them! How could they think such things? There are reports of a rebel faction named Quarrel behind all of this. I fear that Marvalia will soon come to an end...I wish you could be here, Celestia. The time I spent with you gave me courage to go on. I only want to see your face again, so I may have courage to keep going. The years I was with you...I wouldn't give them up for anything.

***

You finished reading the letters, silent all the while. You looked up at Tactic.

"Is this..for rea-ACK!!" A sudden yelp of pain cut off. This migraine was tenfold the pain that normally accomponied an image. Instead of a few seconds of memory, hours of them flooded your mind. You fell to your knees as a chuck of your life was broadcasted in your mind.

***

You walked through the empty streets of Marvalia. Citizens were in their homes, the innocent avoiding members of Quarrel. Czar asked you to go in town and find out a few things about Quarrel. You had to be careful, though; asking the wrong person could get you and Terra attacked on the spot. You two were armed though. You, your favorite sword; her, a bow that she'd taken a liking to. You'd asked a few people you trusted, and found out a few things actually. Quarrel had been planning the something big for quite awhile; it wasn't apparent what, but the amount of shady characters were dwindling, most likely in their homes planning for something.

You caught a shady figure in your peripheral vision. You turned and saw a cloaked man approach you.

"You." He pointed at you. "Come with me." You warily followed him as Terra was at your heels. The man quickly turned toward her and said in a gravely voice, "Wait. He will return." Terra reluctantly stayed and watched you as you walked behind thecloaked figure. He led you to a small building. It was a dusty, brown color, like the rest of the buildings. The hut stood one story tall, with no windows and one, wooden door smack in the center. He entered, and you hastily followed.

Once inside, you saw that the color scheme of the exterior was the same as the middle. Brown, dusty, and boring. A few people were standing about, all looking at you. One of them came up to you, his tall figure looming over you.

"Broad told us that if you were to betray us, we would kill you where you stand." He said in a flat, dead voice.

"Wh-what!? Why?" You said, taken aback. "Who are you people?"

"Don't play dumb. If you betray Quarrel, we will kill you."

Those words bore through your mind like a drill. Broad had told these people I'm part of Quarrel? But, why? You couldn't think anymore as your instinct took over. You blasted out of the hut, sprinting back to Terra. You reached the spot, but she wasn't anywhere near here. You took off somewhere else, desparate to find her. After what felt like an eternity, you spotted her standing by a building, facing away from you. You ran up to her, about to tell her what had happened. Before you could say anything, Terra turned around to look to you, and you say tears flowing down her cheeks.

"A-are you-"

"How could you!?" She screamed. "Why are you leading Quarrel!? After all Czar has done for you, how could you betray him like this!? How could you do something like that? You're horrible!! Just leave, Epee!"

You stepped back. What was happening? Who told her this? Had Broad said something about this?

"Yes, Epee, how?" Said the very person. You turned around to see Broad's gruff, burly figure. He turned and ran, a small smug smile visible on his face for only a second. You sprinted after him, rage flowing through your body.

Broad sprinted out of Marvalia, into Everfree forest, you right at his heels. After what seemed like hours, you chased Broad deep into the forest. It was dark, and storm clouds were gathering. Broad had finally stopped running, turned.

"What did you tell her!?" You demanded.

"Oh, nothing really...just a few fibs," He teased.

"You told her I was the leader of Quarrel, didn't you!? Why!?"

"To get rid of you, of course. I wanted to throne for myself. You were always the favorite. Czar liked you the best. I wanted my share of power, and what better way to get it than to simply kill you off? Once I'm the only one alive, I get full control. I can cut ties with Quarrel, and get rid of them completely. So creative, don't you think?"

You growled. "It sounds cliche to me." You drew your sword.

"Ah, in for a fight are we?" Broad chuckled, "I'll be happy to oblige." He drew his long broadsword, it's length reaching about 5 feet.

You charged forward, holding your sword low. You slashed upward, attempting to cut Broad's treacherous body in half. He dodged and slashed his sword, nearly lobbing your head off. You ducked and thrusted your sword, clipping his side. He growled, and backed up. He brought his sword down in an attempt to cleave into your head. You sidestepped, and swung your sword, cutting his hand. He dropped the blade in pain, and gave you a death glare. He pulled a dagger from its sheath, and slashed at you. You dodged, and returned the favor. You connected blades a few times, sending sparks spraying from the point of contact.

You made your first mistake. Broad feinted once, and you instinctively went for the bait. He slashed at your chest, cutting through your shirt. You cried out in pain, taking a few steps back. You sliced left to right, and returned the other way. Broad dodged both, and stabbed at you. You somersaulted over him, and landed on the ground behind him. You twisted your weight, spinning around and cutting into his back. He yelped, and turned around, using his weight to slash at you. He slashed your arm, cutting down into the muscle. You dropped your blade, pain surging through your body whenever you tried to grasp something. He slashed at you, cutting your chest again. He did so multiple times, then ending the barrage with a kick to the chest. You flew to the ground with a thud and a yelp of pain. Blood leaked onto the grass, the red liquid contrasting with the green. You tried to stand, but Broad launched a kick into your face. The sheer force of the kick tossed your entire upper body backwards, knocking you on your back. Broad lifted you by your neck, and then threw you back down onto the grass. Your consciousness was flickering, your sight fading and reappearing.

"Tch, too easy," sighed Broad. He walked away, leaving you to die.

Lightning crashed, leaving cracks of white across the night sky. Thunder boomed, mixing the crashing and booming with the sound of torrential rainfall pouring down all around you. You struggled to stand, your body heavily wounded and losing blood rapidly. You know that you'll die soon of you don't find help. Considering that you're in the middle of Everfree Forest, the possibility of finding any is slim to none.

Finally to your feet, you began to stagger forward, desperate to get out of the forest. Your body was covered in bruises, cuts and gashes, leaving your clothes blood-stained and torn. Thoughts begin to come across your mind as you limp through the dense forest. Is this the right way? Will you just be walking back into that treacherous bastard that attacked you? Will you trudge through this damn forest until Death decides to end your suffering?

You shivered, the loss of blood and cold rain freezing your body. Continuing to stagger forward, you noticed that the thickness of trees begins to thin out. Hope of survival glimmering through the darkness, you begin to quicken your slow pace a tad. Time slowly crept by as you limped out of the forest. A rock in your path trips you up, causing you to stumble and fall to the ground.

***

Gasping for air, you slowly stood up. Hours of memory passed like seconds. It took the pain a few seconds to disperse. Tactic helped you stand, putting his arm around you so you can use him to support yourself.

"I...remember now..." You said quietly. Tactic looked at you, confused. You told him all you remembered, and as you explained, it all pieced itself together.

"So...he's planning on killing off Czar, Terra and you?" You nodded.

"We can't just charge in there and take him out, he practically has an army there. Plus Czar and Terra might attack me if I show up there..." You interjected.

"Well then, what do we do?" Tactic asked.

"Keep this a secret." You instructed. "I...don't want anyone finding out about this. I can't worry any of them, especially Fluttershy." You continued to study the dirt path.

Tactic sighed. "Okay. Don't worry, you can trust me. If you need any more help, I'll be right there. I must take my leave. Goodbye."

After your goodbyes, you and Tactic turned and went your separate ways. The whole way home, instead of the thoughts of a happy relationship with Fluttershy, the thoughts of the letters, Quarrel, Broad, Terra and Czar echoed through your mind.

Chapter 18

As you entered Fluttershy's cottage, you were greeted by a barrage of hugs from none other than Fluttershy. After last night, Fluttershy was very cheery and giggly, apparently the romantic encounter doing wonders to her expression. All the more reason to keep your past a secret. Your smile you wore was a mix of actual happiness from seeing Fluttershy so giddy, and a facade to discern the fear and anger that plagued you. Fluttershy had a mix of her usual shyness and modesty, but she was also wearing an omnipresent smile accomponied by a slight redness of the cheeks, and seemed a lot more comfortable around. That is, until the threat of any type of intimacy dared to rear it's head, and her normal timidness had returned. You couldn't help but smile like a creep every time you had attempted to hold her hand, or dare an embrace from behind. The recent night really boosted your courage, but you couldn't say the same about Fluttershy, intimacy-wise.

You had helped Fluttershy finish all the chores around the house, and the two of you were sitting on the couch, watching two mice scuttling around, playing and enjoying their blissful life. Fluttershy had rested her head on your shoulder, this time fully conscious, her hand being held by yours, her other hand clutching lightly on your shirt. The blissful silence was enough to tell the happiness the two of you shared at that moment. Despite the memories that flowed through your mind, the contents of such bringing despair, anger, and frustration, Fluttershy being next to you outweighed the negativity clinging to your mind.

"Can I ask you a question?" You broke the silence.

"Y-yes," Fluttershy responded shyly.

"When did you first, er...you know...start, um, l-loving m-me?" You cursed your shyness that'd decided to suddenly return. Fluttershy responded with silence and a blush.

"Th-that's an odd question..." She finally uttered.

"Do you not want to tell me?"

"I-it's not that, it's just an embarrasing question..."

"I'm sorry," You sighed.

"No, d-don't be..." She stayed silent.

"I guess I did w-when I first met you..." She said softly.

"What, when you found me dying on the path to your house?" You asked sarcastically.

Fluttershy giggled. "No, when we took you through a tour of Ponyville...I guess that's when I-I..." She let the sentence hang. It didn't need to be finished; you could get the message. "W-w-what about you?"

"Hm..." You had to stop and think about that one. You'd always thought she was kinda cute ever since you first met her, but you never actually fell fully in love with her until recently. "Only a couple of days ago really. But, don't worry, time doesn't matter," You quickly added. Fluttershy did nothing but smile.

The two of you sat in silence yet again, enjoying each others' company. You had watched Angel approach Misty, timid and shy. Well, that's different, you thought to yourself. Instantly, a mischevious smile broke across your face. D'aww, bunny love, You thought to yourself, still grinning. You're smile slowly fell as your mind wandered. Why did it seem love favored blooming in either the most strange situations, or the most stressful? You just hoped that all would work out in the end.

***

Rarity waved goodbye as Fluttershy left the Carousel Boutique. She felt good about her little pep talk she'd given her. The only thing that ached was her heart. Twice now Rarity had a chance to steer the situation in a whole different direction, and possibly have Epee to herself. She longed to be with Epee, to have him return her love for him. Sky Liner had left her alone and heartbroken, and she desparatly wanted someone to love. Epee coming around had been a blessing from Celestia herself. Of course, most of her friends had ended up falling for him themselves. She just had to promise Fluttershy she would help them be close together, she had to not do anything when Epee'd visited her... Oh no, Rarity thought, how will Pinkie, or Dash react!? They had vowed to help Fluttershy with Epee as well, but to know that they would be together? They would be broken. Mixed emotions coursed through Rarity; heartache, guilt, frustration, fear, all because of one little conversation. How will I deal with this, Rarity thought as she paced around her room. She begged that Fluttershy didn't tell him, but she also wanted her to finally confess her love. These feelings and wants conflicted and contrasted, her emotions going 9 different directions. How am I going to deal with this...

***

The next day, Rarity had visited the Sugarcube Corner to see Epee. He looked quite upbeat and satisfied. Pinkie was clinging to him, as usual. Rarity felt another stab of guilt, knowing that she will soon ruin Pinkie's happy demeanor.

"Hey Rarity." Epee greeted her in his normal friendly voice. Again, the the knife of guilt twisted in Rarity.

"Hello there you two. I heard what'd happened a couple days ago, I'm sorry I couldn't come sooner,"

"It's fine, really," Epee sighed. He sounded like he got that many times already.

"Yeah I was too, but then Mr. and Mrs. Cake told me to stay here, even though I really really really wanted to go see him, cuz I was worried," Pinkie said without a pause.

"Yes, I was too, but I had so many orders to fill out, and I was dreadfully behind. I'm sorry, Epee, dear,"

"Ugh, really, it's fine," Epee groaned. Few customers came and went, sometimes in numbers, sometimes alone. Rarity, Epee and Pinkie engaged in normal conversation, talking about work, Rarity's newly sewn garments, Epee's amazing swordplay (which Rarity was dying to see) and other copious topics.

Epee glanced at the clock, and sighed. "Shift's almost over." Pinkie then followed his action, looking at the clock.

"Oh yeah..." She deflated. Rarity didn't know whether Epee could sense Pinkie's despair at his inevitable leave, but to Rarity, it was apparent. In a few minutes, Epee was gearing up to leave.

"Seeya tomorrow, Pinkie," He said, waving as he and Rarity exited Sugarcube Corner.

"Bye, Epee..." She replied in a dead tone. Epee had a look of concern come over his face.

"You alright? You sound...depressed," He asked, approaching Pinkie.

"O-Oh, yeah, I'm fine!" She yold him, pulling a fake cheerful smile.

Epee studied her for a while, then said, still suspicious, "Okay then..." He waved a final goodbye as Rarity accomponied him out the door.

"I'll see you later, dear," Rarity said. As they exited, Rarity stopped him.

"Hey, Epee..."

"Hm?" He asked, turning. "Oh yeah, I need to tell you something."

"W-what?" She asked, her heart sinking.

"Remember when you told me that Fluttershy was being tortured by the fact she didn't know that I didn't feel the same?"

"Yes..."

"You've got nothing to worry about," He said in a hushed tone. Epee looked around, as if looking for someone, then leaned over to Rarity's ear. "I've told how I feel."

Those words being spoken to her were like a hammer to the heart. He told Fluttershy that he loved her, and no doubt she told him the same. Everyone was bound to be heartbroken. "Th-that's...wonderful!" Rarity exclaimed, trying her best to sound happy through her dismay.

"Thanks," Epee said through a smile. "I'm glad you're happy for me."

"Yes, well, I have to go meet a client soon. I'll see you later dear."

Rarity had to get out of there. Her heart was in pieces, and she needed to leave before she herself broke. She walked hastily to the Boutique, and slammed the door shut once she was in. She had uttered the nearest believable thing, for example, having to meet a client, in orer to get away, even though the Carousel Boutique was actually closed for the day. Okay, I must tell the others, She thought to herself. They'll find out eventually anyways, and the heartbreak will be nine times as worse. Rarity took a deep breath, and stepped out the door, on her task of being the deliverer of bad news.

***

Sunlight poured through the windows, warming the room. Your yawned as your eyes fluttered open. You started to sit up, but stopped when you felt a weight on your left side. You glance to your left, and jumped slightly to see Fluttershy clutching lightly on your arm. You sighed in relief as you recalled the events of the previous night. Fluttershy had, for some reason, asked to sleep in the same bed as you. You'd guessed that lovers had slept in the same bed together, but, since you'd never actually been in a romantic situation before, (and this time, you could remember) you just went with your gut feeling. You were proud that you could also keep your vow of never going farther with her.

You glanced at the clock. Almost time for work. You looked back at Fluttershy, who showed no signs of waking up soon. You decided to take your chances of waking her up, and get ready for work. You slowly slipped out from under her, using your arm to keep her in her original position. Then, once out from under her, you cautiously lowered her. Triumphant with your victory, you walked out of the room.

"Mm...Epee? Are you leaving?"

Damn. She woke up.

"Yeah...sorry, I didn't mean to wake you up."

"No, it's okay, I should be getting up anyways..."

You had just showered, and you were prepared to head to Sugarcube Corner. Just as you were about to leave, you stopped, your hand still wrapped around the knob, and turned. Fluttershy was standing behind you, silent and blushing.

"Um...I guess I'll, um...see you...late-" She was cut off by the sudden kiss you lightly placed on her lips. You held lip contact for a few seconds, and you backed away.

"I'll see you in a few hours. I love you, Fluttershy." You smiled. You stepped out of the cottage, on your trek to Sugarcube Corner. The whole trip, you had a grin plastered on your face. A smile of triumph and joy. Joy of the fact that the moment you just experienced would be the first of many.

Chapter 19

During the work shift at Sugarcube Corner, all you could think about was going back home to Fluttershy. You couldn't remember ever feeling this happy. Sure, being adopted by Czar and meeting Terra, who had been your best friend even before the adoption, were very happy moments in your life, but you had just met the girl of your dreams, the one who loved you just as much as you loved her. The entire shift, you had a big grin plastered on your face.

Pinkie hadn't been talking much. Even though you were deep in thought you could still hear around you. Pinkie had said a few things but never actually tried to start a conversation. She didn't look sad, just in thought. In serious thought.

You glanced quickly at the clock. An hour till your shift'd be over. As you surveyed the room, no one was here. You had a chance to talk to Pinkie privately for awhile.

"Hey, Pinkie..."

"Hm?" She said, coming back to reality.

"You seem...quiet today."

"Oh, just thinking," She said, waving away the topic.

"Is something wrong?" You asked. "You can tell me if something's bothering you."

"No, nothing's..." She stopped, taking a moment to think. "Actually, nothing's bothering me, I've just been wondering about something."

"And that something is...?" You asked, having no idea what she was on about.

Pinkie looked around, surveying the area as you just did. She walked over to the door, opened it, and glanced left and right, as if looking for any threat of a nearby customer. She walked back to you, and grabbed you by your shirt, leading you to a back room. You had thought about struggling, but you were sure Pinkie wouldn't try any funny stuff.

Pinkie came to a stop and let go of your shirt. You were worried a bit because of the serious look present on Pinkie's face. What was she planning?

"Epee..." She said softly. Her voice lacked its bubbly, chipper tone.

"U-um...yes...?"

She took a deep breath. "I...love you. Ever since the tour through Ponyville, I've loved you. It scared me at first, because I had no idea what I was feeling."

Woah. You were speechless. I guess what Rarity said was true... You thought. You stood there, not knowing what to say.

"I know...about you and Fluttershy..." She muttered.

"Wait, what? How?" You asked, shocked. How did she know?

"Rarity told me...she told all of us. I...didn't react so well. But, now I know that this is how it's supposed to be." Her voice was cracking, as if she was about to cry, but she showed no signs of a break down. "I...was afraid...of losing you...I've never felt this way about anyone before. I didn't want Fluttershy to have you...I wanted you. I know I was selfish, but that's how I felt. Rarity came to me yesterday and explained to me. You...you're feelings about us. How do you feel about all of us?"

You chose your words carefully. "I love all of you. I would do anything to make sure every single one of you are happy. But...my love for Fluttershy is special. It's hard to describe, but it's an intimate love. I just want you to know that I do love you. You're one of my best friends, and I would be crushed if I found out that anything happened to you. I would do anything for you, I would do anything for all of you."

Pinkie just smiled, as if she was happy with your statement.

"Just like Rarity said..." She muttered. "You can leave early today, Epee."

"Huh?" You asked, confused.

"Leave early. I want you to go home to Fluttershy. She needs you."

"Uh...is something wrong?" You asked.

"No, she's not in danger or anything, but...mentally, she needs you. You understand, right?"

"I...think so, yeah." You said. You were slightly confused by Pinkie's sudden change in character.

"Good!" She chirped, popping back into her chipper, upbeat self. "Now, you go back home to Fluttershy, kay? And I need to get out from here, if someone saw us, they'd prolly think we're up to something."

Just as you were about to leave, you turned back to Pinkie. She looked back at you, with her normal cheery expression present.

"I'm glad that you can call me a friend, Pinkie." You spoke with a smile.

"Get back to your love, silly," She retorted. You chuckled, then headed on home.

***

"C'mon, get back here!!" You yelled as you chased Angel as he ran off with your shoe.

"Angel, give it back!!" Fluttershy shouted as she was flying at your speed beside you.

I bet that little bastard's got a smug face on right now, You thought as you continued to chase the little bunny around Fluttershy's cottage.

You'd finally caught him, and you were laying on your back on the grass, exausted. Fluttershy was busy doing her adorable tell-off.

"Well, that was fun," You said, standing up and wiping the seat of your jeans. "You gave me quite a workout." You lifted your foot to put one the recovered shoe.

"But you shouldn't do that Angel; it's rude to steal," She scolded.

He replied with a paw gesture to you as if to say, "How come he's alright with it though?"

You chuckled. "It's okay, all in good fun." You stepped in front of him and stroked him on the head. "I've got dirt on you...you and Misty? Yeah, I've seen you two. You got a crush on her," You whispered, so Fluttershy couldn't hear. "I can tell all of Fluttershy's friends about it..." You teased. Angel's eyes widened, and he shook his head rapidly. You chuckled, savoring your victory.

"Well, after that little workout, I wanna chill for awhile."

In a few minutes, you and Fluttershy were tended to household chores. Fluttershy handled the animals, and you handled sweeping mopping. In a hour or so, everything was fnished, and a knock sounded at the door.

"Any idea who that is?" You asked you placed the broom back in the closet. Fluttershy just shrugged. You answered to see Dash standing at the door.

"Oh, hi Dash. What, er, brings you here?" You asked, seeing that Dash's hair was very disheveled and blown back, as if she had just flown here in a hurry.

"Hey, Epee, I just came to tell Fluttershy something," She said, sounding breathless. Hearing that, Fluttershy appeared behind you, greeting Dash.

"Oh, hi Fluttershy, I came to remind ya that Summer's almost over, so it's gonna start to get a bit chilly soon."

"Ah, yeah, I figured that it was almost over..." She said.

"Was that...it?" You asked, sort of confused.

"Yeah, I guess. I'd better get back to preperations," She said before she waved goodbye, and blasted off.

"Well that was...quick." You muttered.

"Since Autumn is almost here, she must be busy with the weather team."

"Yeah, I guess..."

"Oh, um, can I ask you a favor?" She asked timidly.

"Sure, anything."

"Um, since it's about to get cold soon, can you grab the fall clothes from the attic? Ever since Spring came, I packed away the seasonal clothes, and since it's about to come back, I, um, need the clothes switched out..."

"Hm...that makes sense, so the clothes don't pack your closet," You reasoned, "Sure, gimme a minute. Where's the attic?"

She led you to the attic, which was in a hallway next to her bedroom door. You pulled the string, and the ladder unfurled and lay at a diagonal angle. You ascended it, searching for a box full of clothes. You turned on the light, and it's dim light helped a little in your search. After awhile, you found a cardboard box, filled with jackets, scarves, and sweaters. You lifted it, and carefully descended the creaky ladder, balancing the box on your arm, pressing it against your chest, so you could stabalize the box with your chin. You set it down, and helped Fluttershy pack the summer clothes into the box that previously contained the other clothes. Even though Fluttershy normally wore a few sets of clothes, spanning from jeans to plain shirts and light sweaters, she had quite a lot of clothes. You didn't say anything though, you just helped pack. You lifted the box and put it in the attic. As you placed the box down, your foot caught on something, and you crashed to the floor, your arms protecting your head as you fell. When you recovered, you noticed a small brown wooden box-like abject lying next to you.

"Epee, are you alright?" Came the worried voice of Fluttershy.

"Yeah, I'm fine, love," You replied, investigating the box. You picked it up, and inspected it. Upon more investigation, you discovered that it was a record player.

"Are you sure you're alright?" Fluttershy asked, coming up the ladder.

"Yeah, hey, take a look at this," You said, showing her the record player.

"Oh, I didn't know I still had that..." She spoke as she finished her ascent up the ladder.

"Wanna look for the records?" You asked.

"Um, sure," She said. After a few minutes of searching, you found a box filled with vinyl records.

"Hey, found it!" You exclaimed, holding up the box.

In a matter of minutes, you had the record player set up, and you were placing the record in it's respective place. As you placed the needle gently on the disk, and activated the simple machine.

At first, a few seconds of scratchy ambience, a melody began to play. It was a soft, somber tune played by a piano. You glanced on the sleeve it was placed in. The simple white material had "Moonlight Sonata" written on it in plain, black type.

The two of you sat on the couch, intamately close, listening to the beautiful melody. As it reached it's end, you sighed in content.

"That was like...awesome," You said, marveling in the beauty of the music. "Wanna listen to another one?"

"Ok," She said while nodding. You grabbed another vinyl record and replaced Moonlight Sonata. A romantic tune eminated from the record player. You looked back at Fluttershy, an idea in your mind.

You decided to try and act as suave as possible. "Care to dance?" You asked, holding out your hand invitingly. Fluttershy blushed, and stayed silent. Slowly, she took your hand. You pulled her in close, placing a hand on the small of her back, and having another holding her hand. You had taken a hand off her to place her hand on your shoulder. Returning the hand to its original position, you began to lead in a slow dance. Even though you'd never danced before, you had guessed that the footwork from learning how to fence was the main component in your slow dancing capabilities.

The melody took ups and downs in tempo, rising with violin and cello, then including copious notes from piano until the same instrument to take ahold, slowing it down to a romantic, intimate pace.

Fluttershy had followed almost perfectly, even though it wasn't exactly that hard to slow dance. Before long, she had rested her shoulder against yours. You continued to slow dance, the blush on your cheeks blending with Fluttershy's pink hair. You had relished in the feeling of mutual love radiating.

The music slowly came to an end, but the two of you had still been standing there. You'd stopped dancing, but you still held each other.

All things must come to an end, You thought as you pulled away. Fluttershy looked up at you, her blue eyes shining.

"I love you..." You whispered before placing your lips against hers. She returned the kiss, pressing her lips lightly against yours. After a few seconds, you broke lip contact.

"I love you, too..."

The two of you slowly moved to the couch and sat beside each other. You had laid up against the armrest, your back at a slanted angle, Fluttershy resting, essentially, resting her entire body onto you.

"Am I...your first?" You asked after a long silence.

"U-um..." She whispered, as if hesitant to say it.

"No...?"

"...Yes..." She said, embarrased. "How about you? Am I your first?" She asked so softly you could barely hear her.

You were just about to say 'yes,' but you stopped yourself before you spoke. Even though you'd recalled over half of your memories, you still had to act as if you only remembered bits and pieces.

"I...don't really remember..." You lied. "But, I can remember feelings...even though I can't remember specific events, I can remember certain emotions or feelings. And...before I met you, I've never had this feeling ever...so, I think it's safe to sau that you are my first love," You reassured her.

You had spent the rest of the evening laying on the couch with Fluttershy. Glancing at the clock, you noticed it was close to midnight.

"Um...Fluttershy?" You whispered.

"Hm?" She asked, lifting her head from your chest, her blue eyes shining.

"It's about midnight, and, it'd be a bit cramped if we slept on the couch...remember last time? We were stiff as boards..." You told her, remembered the achiness of the day after your confession.

"Oh..."

"Hold on, I'll take you upstairs," You said as you lifted her up. She squeaked, saying nothing as you carried her up the stairs. You had only done this once before, but she was asleep that time. You walked into her room and set her down gently on her bed. After laying the covers over her, you kissed her on the forehead. "Good night," You whispered. You began to walk out of the room before Fluttershy stopped you by grabbing your hand.

"P-please...stay here..." She muttered. You could feel her tugging slightly on your hand.

"A-are you sure?" You stammered out. Even though you had more than enough confidence last night when she asked to sleep in your bed with you, when she asked you to sleep with her, you suddenly lost any confidence whatsoever.

All she did in response was nod. You slid under the covers with her, Fluttershy slightly scooting away to give you room.

The two of you held each other tight under the covers. You could hear Fluttershy's soft breath blow on your neck. As you laid there, you remembered your vow. Your vow to never go any farther with Fluttershy than kissing, in fear of corrupting her innocence.

That night, you broke that vow.

Chapter 20 *lemons*

WARNING!!! This chapter contains graphic content *for the noobs this means sex, sex, and more sex* Those who requested clop, here you go. For those that didn't want clop, skip this chapter and pretend it doesn't exist.

Special thanks to Daracke for editing my first ever clop scene. Enjoy.

And by enjoy, I mean fap.

***

"I-it's my...f-first time...I'm st-still a bit scared..." She whispered to you, while blushing a deep red and biting her thumbnail. Her eyes were averted, scared.

"Don't worry; it's the first time for me too..." You tried your best to reassure her. You kicked yourself mentally, hearing yourself speak. It sounded perverted, as if trying to lure her into it, even though your true intentions were to boost her confidence.

Nevertheless, Fluttershy acted as if it had comforted her. Her blush didn't fade, but she smiled. You gulped as sweat rolled down your face, dripping off your chin.

"Please...b-be gentle..."

Oh god, why, you thought to yourself, why do you hafta make me feel even worse...

You slinked down to Fluttershy's nether regions, and brought your face to it. As your tongue connected to her lower lips, Fluttershy inhaled sharply as she clutched the sheets with one hand and covered her mouth with the other, trying to suppress moans of pleasure. You traced your tongue up and down the thin line, occasionally letting your tongue enter her. She gasped and moaned, pulling at the sheets, her legs twitching every once in a while. You lifted your hand to her slit and slowly stuck the tip of your finger inside. You licked her clitoris as you slid your finger in and out, your finger tracing her hymen. Fluttershy's legs twitched rapidly for a second in reaction to your tongue in contact with her pleasure bud. She pawed at the back of your head, moaning and gasping, begging you to lick harder. You responded to the request by removing your finger and sliding your entire tongue in her passage, eliciting a loud and long moan from your partner. Not wanting to give her an orgasm just yet, you stop licking, and stand up. Your member had slipped its way out of the opening in your boxers, and had extended to its full length. You bent over her, your hands on either side of her body. You slowly and carefully slipped your member inside of her, and stopped once you feel the hymen. You and Fluttershy locked eyes for a full two seconds, her eyes shining with tears of pleasure. She wrapped her arms around your back and brings you closer. With a small intake of breath to muster your courage, you began to push your member into her, tearing the hymen. She clawed at your back as more tears streaked down her face. Slowly, but surely, you start a slow rhythm of thrusts; taking great care to be gentle. Fluttershy's small, quick moans matched the sound of skin smacking against skin, and your breathing turned heavy. Your slow, drawn out thrusts sped up, causing the bed to move and rock, tapping against the wall. In your mind, you wondered what the animals were thinking. You quickly tossed the thought aside; you had more pressing matters to attend to.

You could feel your climax approaching. Judging by how tight Fluttershy was holding you, and by the increasing volume in her moans and gasps of pleasure, she was nearing hers just as fast. Sweat dripped off the both of you, soaking the sheets which were already damp with other fluids.

"Epee...I-I...I...love y-you!" Fluttershy said in between moans; a second before she reached the 'big moment.'

"I...love you t-to," you replied as you climax. You brought your lips to meet Fluttershy's; your heart skipping a beat at the words she just spoke.

The bed creaked as you fell onto your back on the sheets, covered in sweat. You panted from being out of breath, as it seemed Fluttershy was as well. Something made you glance over to your hand, feeling a weight against it. She had grabbed your hand and pulled it closer to her. In response to this, you pulled her body closer to you, and wrapped your arm around her. She didn't protest, just returned the embrace. You wanted to hate yourself for what you had just done, but you felt strangely happy. You had just done the most indefinite thing in proving your love for Fluttershy. That thought made you forgive yourself, just slightly though.

Chapter 20 *no lemons*

Rarity sat at her desk, her violet hair splayed across the surface. The slightest trace of sobbing was audible in the room.

She raised her head, her eyes red and her cheeks wet.

"Why...I helped the others avoid this...yet, why am I the one crying?" She said through her sobs. "Why, Sky Liner...why did you have to break my heart?" She asked no one, the silence being her reply.

***

"Oh...hi Rarity..." Pinkie said in a dead tone. Rarity had just entered the Sugarcube Corner, just after hearing Epee tell her about his confession.

"Hi dear, I need to tell you something."

"Mhm..." She replied.

The door opened as Twilight and Rainbow Dash entered the Sugarcube Corner.

"Hey Pinkie, how are you doi..." Twilight stopped as she saw Pinkie's dead look. "Is...everything alright?"

Rarity, seeing this convenience, took advantage of the situation.

"Girls, I need to tell you all something," She said, putting on a serious tone.

"Uh...ok?" Dash said, confused.

"We...all know that Fluttershy has a humongous crush on Epee, right?" Rarity asked to all of them. Dash and Twilight looked as if they had an idea what she was going to tell them, but Pinkie was oblivious.

"Yeah..." Pinkie sighed.

Rarity couldn't hold it in any longer. The secret was eating away at her. "Epee confessed his love to Fluttershy, and they're now a couple!" Rarity shouted.

Pinkie stared at Rarity in disbelief. "W...what? He...doesn't...love me?" She asked, her voice cracking. A sound, like a balloon deflating, filled the room. Pinkie's hair deflated, blasting out in all directions, and it fell down straight. A single tear broke ranks from its ducts, streaking down her cheek.

Rarity rushed forward and pulled Pinkie into a hug. Twilight and Dash just stared ahead, shocked.

"Pinkie, no!" Rarity yelled. "Don't say that...Epee...he loves all of us. He would want the best for all of us, he would do anything for us. He loves us all. But, his love for Fluttershy is...special. It's hard to describe, but it's more of an intimate love. But please, don't think that he doesn't love you, because he does." Rarity looked back at Dash and Twilight. "The same goes for you as well. He loves you all more than life. He would want the best for all of us. Do you understand?"

Twilight sighed. "Yeah...I'm glad he told Fluttershy how he felt, and that they're together, I'm just upset because..."

"Because it wasn't you?" Dash finished.

"Yeah..."

"Pinkie, look at me," Rarity said, bringing Pinkie's tearful face up. "Everyone has their one. And Epee's is Fluttershy. Soon enough, you'll find someone who will love you as much as you do them."

"R-really?" She hiccupped.

"Yes, dear..." She soothed.

Pinkie sniffed and pulled away from the hug. Her straight hair reflated, returning to its curly, poofy state.

"Thanks Rarity. I...guess I was being selfish," She said sheepishly.

"Nah, s'fine. We all felt that way," Dash reassured her.

"Yes, we all do..." Rarity said softly.

***

Rarity remembered the day before yesterday all too well. She had helped resolve her friends' love for Epee. Or at least, made them realize the truth. Yet, Rarity herself was feeling the most alone. No one to love her...Epee was in love with someone else...her heart was left crushed once more.

***

You were walking around town, headed to Rarity's Carousel Boutique. Fluttershy had asked you to stop by to ask Rarity to fix a tear in one of Fluttershy's sweaters after work while she went to shop for groceries. The memories of the prior night lingered in your mind. You had lost your virginity, and you could never felt worse. You had taken away the one thing in Fluttershy that made up her entire being. Her innocence. She was still shy and naive, and basically Fluttershy, but, she had just experienced sex. The innocence ruining action. You remembered what had led to the intercourse. During some kissing, hands traveled places, and one thing led to another, and then, the next thing you knew, you were making love. You had never meant to do it, but fate had another plan. Your love had not wavered at all after that night; if anything, it grew. The only thing that kept you sane was the fact that the action's purpose is to express intense love.

You would have continued to dwell on it, but your head slammed into the wall of a building. You yelped in pain as you rubbed your forehead. You weren't paying attention to where you were walking. Upon further inspection, you realized that it was Carousel Boutique. You regained your senses, and you knocked on the door.

Moments later, someone answered the door.

"Hi Rarity, I needed to...ask...you..." You slowed to a halt as you saw the state of Rarity. Her eyes were read, and her cheeks were wet, as if she had been crying.

"Rarity, are you alright?" You asked, concerned. Rarity rubbed her eyes quickly.

"Oh, yes, yes, I am fine..." She muttered.

"No, you're not," You protested. You walked in to inspect Rarity. "You've been crying. Why?"

Rarity said nothing for a long while, but then, she spoke.

"I love you, Epee." came the shocking words. "Oh please, don't act so surprised."

You took a few moments to calm down. I knew this was coming...I sound evil and moral-less, but I saw this coming. "I know I shouldn't be, but..."

"You have your love. All the others have resolved themselves, soon to find their love. But me? I sit here, crushed, just like when Sky Liner left me. All alone, always destined to end up heartbroken." Fresh tears surfaced and rolled down her cheeks. All you could do was stand there in disbelief and guilt.

"Rarity..." You started, seeing the need to choose your words carefully. "If it's something I did, I'm sorry. But, I can't lie to my feelings. Lying to others is easy, but lying to yourself is hard. I love Fluttershy, and I love all of you. I would do anything to keep you all safe."

Rarity nodded, tears still streaming down her cheeks.

"And, if you're upset about Sky Liner, let me say this. If he hadn't left you, where would we be now? We wouldn't be having this conversation right now. You would still be wrapped in his lies. He didn't love you, and he made that clear. He didn't lie and pretend to love you, he told you the truth. Now look at you. You just helped three girls resolve their love for someone they couldn't be with. You say you're destined to be heartbroken? Just because love didn't work out on a few occasions

doesn't mean that you're destined to be alone for the rest of your life."

Rarity was silent the entire time. She seemed to think over those words until she spoke.

"Why are you such a sweet talker..." She sighed. "No wonder you have us all swooning over you."

"Uh...eheh...I, uh, guess?" You stammered, unsure of what to say.

Rarity took a deep breath. "Thank you, Epee. That meant a lot. Now, what was it you wanted?" She asked as she wiped her eyes.

"Uh...Oh, yeah," You said under your breath. You pulled a sweater out of a bag and presented it to Rarity.

"There was a tear in the side when Fluttershy found it, and she was wondering if you could fix it."

"Oh, yes of course, this'll only take a second!" Rarity chirped as she levitated the sweater with her magic. She flattened out the sweater in midair, and she focused her magic. In a matter of seconds, the rip closed, the seam repairing itself, the threads loosening, then tightening again to recreate the bond.

"All set," She said as she handed you back the sweater. "Now, go back to Fluttershy." She instructed, pushing you out the door. "If I keep you here any longer, I just might not let you go," She teased. You chuckled assuming, and desparatly hoping, that it was a joke.

The worries that plagued you days before seemed to cease, all your fears about Broad and Marvalia out of your head

Chapter 21

You slowly made your way back to Fluttershy's cottage, your mind heavy. I barely know Fluttershy...and I...I...had sex with her...I've only known her for two weeks and I had sex with her...what have I done? Was it the right thing to do? Fluttershy acted like she...liked it...or was happy, but...I told myself I wouldn't, and I did...

Ugh, I'd hope I would never have to help you again, your voice came out of nowhere.

You again?

Yes, me again. Your subconscious. I'm basically the smart part of you, and now you need help again.

...I made a promise to myself, and I broke it...

So? Fluttershy didn't seem to mind, did she?

W-well no, but-

'But' nothing! You want to make her happy more than anything, right?

Yeah...if she isn't happy, I couldn't be happy...

But look at her. She's happy, happier than you've ever seen her. And, if she's happy, you're happy right?

You thought on that for a moment. Even though the voice was technically you and your subconscious, it was pretty smart.

Yeah...you're right. She's happy, and if she's happy, I'm happy.

There ya go. The answer to your problems was in you all along.

New epiphany in hand, you walk to Fluttershy's cottage, a quick pace now present. You question your sanity as you trek, but for the moment, it didn't matter.

***

Tactic sat, hunched over a desk with the letters from Czar to Celestia. She knew this man? He thought to himself, brooding over the pieces of paper. How come she forgot about Epee, and all of this? Was she lying? Had she never read the letters? Had she merely forgotten? Tactic rose to search in the archives once more. By chance, he uncovered letters with Celestia's seal on them. He reopened them, and read.

***

Dear Czar,

I'm so happy for you, Czar. Yes, it is arduous, but the respect from your subjects makes up for. Rule justly and fairly, with a good blend of leniency and firmness, and your path should be somewhat smooth. Yes, I do rule the largest kingdom, and it is hard, but, I like it. I feel as though my subjects are my friends. I just hope you can feel the same about yours. Don't worry, Czar, have more faith in yourself. Have those years you spent with me gone to waste now?

Dear Czar,

Oh my, that's awful! I wish I could do something, but I sadly can't. I can't create what only your body can create. But, you still have my support the whole way. Don't talk as if all hope is lost, there will be a way to put things right. I wish I could be there as well, I wish to help in any way I can. And don't you worry about sending these letters; you come first. Please, handle what is ailing you before worrying about me.

Dear Czar,

See? It all worked out in the end. I'm sure those three will make excellent rulers. And no, it's not in your own selfish desires. It's a mutual thing. You know that you are glad that you can help them and help yourself at the same time correct? How can I forgive you when there is nothing to forgive?

Dear Czar,

Please tell me you are kidding! You can't die! Not now! What about Epee, Terra, and Broad?! What about Marvalia?! What about me?! Sorry, I overreacted. I don't really know what to say. Judging from my previous reaction, it's obvious that I am not taking this well. But, I know you. You are strong. You will know how to handle this. Be strong Czar, for your country, for your children, for me. It was all you though, Czar. The only thing I did, was help bring it out. I wish to see you too, Czar. I wish to see your face, see your smile, just like all those years ago. It hurts to know that your life span is nearly minutes to. I have been in this world for so many millennium. I wish to be with you again Czar, I wish to be with you again...

***

The letters stopped there. Celestia had not replied to his last letter. Could she have not read it? Could she have not replied? Tactic sensed something was very wrong here.

I should tell her! Tactic thought to himself as he began to find Celestia. Wait, he stopped himself. Epee asked me to keep this a secret... Tactic sighed as he slumped down at a desk, at a loss of what to do next.

***

Czar sat on his bed, just finished vomiting blood. It was only a matter of time before he died. The doctor gave him about 6 months until he would be bedridden for another year, then the sickness would end him.

Czar sat up weakly and walked over to a mirror. His eyes were red, he had bags under his eyes, his face was pale, and his body was gaunt and frail. Czar used to stand proud and tall, strong physically and mentally. Now, he was feeble, weak.

He walked over to his desk, and opened the bottom drawer. He reached in and grabbed a letter that was hidden under empty sheets of paper. He unfurled the folded paper and read.

Dear Celestia,

I don't know how I can word this. It's hard to say what I have to say. But, I will try my hardest.

I have...very strong feelings for you. Every time I think of you, I find myself dwelling on that thought for hours. It didn't alarm me at first, but then it got so bad as to where it was hard to be in the same room as you. It's funny really, thinking back on those days, when I was a prince, being love struck and feeling like a schoolboy. I still am. Then, when I left, it was the hardest thing for me. I didn't know how you felt when I left. Even after all we had...the...experience..we shared, I did not have the courage to tell you how I felt. I wanted to tell you, and maybe you felt it. Maybe it was like one of those things that didn't need to be spoken, it was just felt. Yet, still, It pains me to know that I never told you. I love you Celestia, more than I can put into words. It was mere luck that I met you. My father had brought me to Equestria to be used to another country. I was only a young man then, just out of his teens. I wasn't very good at socializing with anyone, especially you. Yet, we'd gotten acquainted. We ended up being good friends for a few years. Then...it...happened. You told me how you felt about me. You told me that you loved me. You wrapped your arms around me, pressed your lips against mine. I still remember the warm feeling of your lips, the sweet taste. It had to be kept secret, the love had to be thrown away. The chaos it would bring would be drastic. We couldn't be together...

I don't expect a positive reply, Celestia, but, I needed to get my feelings out. I'm dying, my country hates me, my own son abandoned me...It hurts Celestia. So much pain. The last decade has been so hard. I need you Celestia; this pain is too much to bear...

Czar set the letter down, tears streaming down his pale cheeks. He would cry every time he read the letter he'd written a couple years ago. He'd been too weak to send it, afraid of her response. Now, Czar was almost dead, his life was nearing it's end. If he didn't send it, his feelings would go down a secret for the rest of eternity.

Czar grabbed an envelope and slid the letter inside. He wrote Celestia's name on it and sealed the letter.

"Celestia...please forgive me..."

***

Celestia paced in her quarters. Many thoughts flew through her mind. The arson, Epee and his attacker...

Why does that name sound so familiar? Celestia thought to herself. It sounded as if she had heard that name before, but she couldn't place it. Had she read it in a letter, or heard it in a conversation?

She plopped down on her bed, tired and frustrated. As she lay there, she thought about something that hadn't come across her mind in a long time. She hadn't heard from Czar in ages; she was worried. Had he forgotten about her? Had the sickness gotten to him? She rolled to her side and curled up. Czar couldn't be dead...he couldn't just leave her...He'd never told her how he felt...even after what they had...

"Czar...please forgive me..."

Chapter 22

Finally, after so much planning and surveying, the day was perfect. Czar was making a public appearance, addressing his illness, and Terra would be distracted, giving time for Broad to slip out unnoticed. He needed to be rid of Epee. If he decided to return to Marvalia, it would cause great distress. He would sneak through Everfree forest, kill the annoying brat, and be able to return undetected, and kill off Czar and Terra. Broad chuckled as he placed his large sword in its sheath on his back. He hopped out of a window in the palace, and snuck out in the dusk.

***

A few more weeks had passed. You and Fluttershy were doing great; you were sure she was just as happy as you were. You, Fluttershy, Pinkie, AJ, everyone was enjoying how simple life was being and having fun hanging out. It hadn't been long before you completely stopped worrying about Broad, Czar, Marvalia and Terra. Life was simply great.

You were walking home from working at the Sugarcube Corner, having the gang with you, minus Fluttershy, who was at the cottage. You all were going to hang out tonight, something that you all hadn't done in a while.

Fluttershy greeted you with an embrace, just like every time you returned from work. Everyone let out a big, "D'aww..." as she hugged you.

"C-c'mon guys, stop..." You said, blushing. Fluttershy was just silent in embarrassment.

Everyone walked inside, and innocent fun ensued. No spin the bottle, no drunken harems, just laughs. Few hours had passed, and everyone agreed on a nighttime stroll through Ponyville. The air had a nice chill to it, and Dash and her weather team had cleared the skies, showing Luna's beautiful starry night.

Just as you stepped outside, your heart stopped. Something was off.

You felt many eyes watching you. Fluttershy looked at you with concern in her eyes.

"What's wrong?" She muttered.

All of a sudden, arrows shot from the trees, nearly turning everyone into Swiss cheese.

You jumped back, dodging the deadly arrows.

"What the hay was that!?" Applejack screamed.

"Oh, would you look at that, you have your friends with you. Ah, so much killing will be going on tonight, it's thrilling," He spoke in a teasing voice.

B-Broad?!

A large, burly man stepped out of the shadows, along with about 5 other people holding bows with a quiver full of arrows on their back.

"W-Who's he!?" Dash shouted.

"Did your friend never tell you anything? I'm Broad. I've come to kill you all.

You outstretched your hands to protect the others. So, are you going to mow us down here?" You question, hoping your voice doesn't warble.

"No, we're too easy to see here. I'll be waiting," He said as he dashed off into the forest.

"Shit!!" You swore. Quickly, the assailants notched their arrows and aimed them at the group.

"You'll have to get through us, first." With that, they shot the arrows at you.

You turned your head, expecting to feel the pain of arrows piercing your body. Yet it never came. You opened your eyes to see a violet barrier of magic covering all of you. You turn to see Twilight, horn glowing with an ethereal light. The arrows were frozen in midair, as if they had stuck in the shield. She let down the barrier, and turned all the arrows around to face the attackers. Their eyes grew wide, knowing what was coming.

In an instant, the arrows launched with incredible speed towards the assailants. You watched as the arrows pierced their bodies, as they screamed in pain. With a thud, they all fell to the ground.

"Are...they dead?" Fluttershy squeaked.

"No, I intentionally missed their vital organs." You looked to see for yourself. Arrows were stuck in their legs and arms, away from anything that might kill them.

"E-Epee, what's going on?!" Dash exclaimed. You didn't answer, you only ran inside. You grabbed your sword and ran back inside.

"What's going on!?" Dash demanded again.

"I don't have time to explain, he'll get away." You said hurriedly.

"We'll catch, just tell us!!"

You sighed. "He's...an old friend. All I can say is that he's dangerous, and I need to talk him out of this.

"And these people?" Twilight gestured to the unconscious bodies laying in the grass. "Who did I just attack?"

"Broad's minions. He's the leader of a rebel group that's trying to kill the king of a neighboring kingdom, Marvalia. And me. Now, please, can we hurry?" You didn't wait for an answer. Even though you didn't want them to follow you, you knew that they'd follow you no matter what you'd say.

You ran after Broad's fleeting image until he stopped. It was in the same place he nearly killed you a month before.

"You brought them? Do you want them to die?" He asked sarcastically.

"Shut up!" You yelled, holding up your sword.

"Ah, feisty yet again. Do you remember yet?"

"Yeah, I remember everything. Czar took you in when your parents died, Broad, he gave you a life! And you just go and throw it away!? That's just plain stupid!!"

"Ah...yes, he took us in for his own needs. He didn't care about us. He just needed an heir because he couldn't knock someone up. You understand?"

"Yeah, it was at first, but you saw how he treated us? He loved us, you dumbass! He still does! And you throw away his trust as if it were trash! And he sits there, putting it in you, and he hates me because you framed me!"

"He loved you and Terra," He seethed. "He treated you the best...hell, he's practically giving you Marvalia."

"Because he trusted me! I'm sorry, but it's not something I decided! And besides, why are you after the throne anyhow?

Marvalia is in despair, no thanks to you! What are you gonna do with it even if you're plan does work?"

"Czar said himself that I am talented in military strategy. I can conquer the Segavas with ease, given time. Soon, I can work my way east, taking over tribes and countries...I will rival with Equestria!" He exclaimed.

"Jeez, isn't he full of himself," Dash said quietly so he couldn't hear.

"Didn't you listen? He was going to assign you as general! He saw your talents, and was going to let you use those talents! Why use what he praised you for to harm him?"

"Because he never praised me! He praised you!!" he snapped. "If he loved anyone, he loved you and Terra! I was just another catalyst, just another pawn for him to use and abuse!"

"Please, Broad, you have to understand, he loved you! He loves you! I love you! You were like a brother to me! Remember that time in the orphanage? Those guys, they were picking on me. They were beating me up, calling me weak, skinny, and useless. And guess what you did? You stopped them. You came and knocked the shit out of them, and got in their face for messing with me! You protected me! And guess what? I told Czar this. I told him all that had happened. I never, ever, want to see that happen to anyone I care about! I don't want them hurt! I want to protect them just as you protected me!" At this point, you were crying.

"I told him that I wanted to become strong, so I would never be called weak again! That's why he took priority over me. That's why he spent all his time helping me train, helping me become stronger, for you. For Terra, for Czar, for everyone."

"NO! Don't expect me to believe this bullshit! I'm going to kill you, and get rid of all this bullshit! With me ruling Marvalia, there will be none of this bullshit ever again! We will be flawless!!" He raised his sword, signalling that he was ready for a fight.

You hung your head. Tears streaked down your cheeks. "Looks like I couldn't talk you out of this...I'm sorry..." You lifted you blade. If you couldn't talk him out of this, then you had no other choice.

"Fluttershy, Pinkie, get outta here!!" You shouted. You didn't wait for a reply as you charged forward, you sword held low. As you closed in on Broad, you slashed upwards. Broad sidestepped, and brought his large blade down. You dodged, jumping backwards, and lunged forward, stabbing at Broad. He blocked, and kicked you in the chest. You stumbled and fell backwards, landing on your ass. Broad lifted his sword, and slashed downward, the blade hungering to bury itself in your skull.

The blow never came. You opened your eyes to see a violet cloak of magic cover you. A foot away from you was his blade, stopped by the magic.

"Get up!!" Twilight demanded. You rushed to your feet, and stepped back. Twilight willed the shield forward, causing Broad to falter.

He growled, and lashed out. He slashed and cut at Twilight, the blows obstructed by Twilight's aura shields. She unrelentingly blasted Broad with pulses of amethyst shaded magic aura.

Twilight did a backflip, with the aid of her magic, as Broad slashed sideways, allowing you to attack. Broad, surprised, blocked as you cut and sliced.

Clunk! Clunk! Shiny, reflective objects flew at Broad, hitting his head and chest.

"Don't touch my friend, you scoundrel!!" Rarity shouted at Broad, sending more jewels flying. He batted the away with his sword, barely keeping up with her pace. Rarity, her horn shining with magic, lifted a dozen more jewels out of the ground, bombarding him once more.

"Just because I'm a lady doesn't mean I can't kick your ass!" She shouted, shooting more gems. Broad, obviously pissed off, rushed forward, slashing the gems as they flew towards him, causing them to evaporate into dust. Applejack placed a nicely timed kick at Broad's side just as she passed by him, sending him to the dirt.

"Hah, how 'bout them apples!" She yelled. Broad slowly stood, glowering at AJ.

"Uh-oh..."

You distracted Broad by rushing him, slashing and slicing once again. He blocked and ducked, trying to keep with your pace.

Dash swooped in, kicking Broad in the back as she passed, knocking him to the floor. She flew back down hovering just above Broad.

"C'mon, wanna tussle, asshole?" She taunted. Broad slashed at her, barely missing her. She kicked and dodged, toying with Broad. Several kicks later, Broad managed to grab Dash by her ankle. He threw her to the side as if she weighed nothing.

"Hold on, I got ya!" You yelled as you caught Dash. The force almost made you fall back, but you held your ground.

"You okay?" You asked, setting her down.

"Yeah, just a bit shaken up..."

Applejack and Twilight were handling Broad. AJ was punching and kicking Broad whenever he was open, the rest of the time Twilight blasting him with aura pulses or shields.

Broad managed to lay one hit one hit on Applejack, slicing her shoulder. She yelped in pain, grasping the wound.

"Shit," you exclaimed. "Dash, Twilight, go back to Fluttershy's cottage, and take them with you. Rarity, take the others with you,"

"Got it!!" They shouted in unison. Dash picked up AJ and flew back to Fluttershy's cottage, the two unicorns following. Rarity had dragged Pinkie and Fluttershy with her.

"Alright, you fucker, let's rock!" You screamed as you charged once more. Your blades connected multiple times, sending sparks shooting out all around you. The sound of clashing metal filled the air, no other sounds other than the heavy breathing of you and Broad as you both began to tire.

You caught sight of Fluttershy still there, attempting to stay out of sight. She must've snuck back.

"What are you doing?! Get outta here!!" You shouted. Just after the words left your lips, a sudden force made itself present on your chest. Broad placed a firm kick on your chest, causing you to fly back. You hit the ground with a grunt, pain pulsating from your ribs.

Broad sighed. "Just like last time...though this time it was more fun." Broad lifted you by your throat, squeezing. He then threw back onto the ground.

"ACK!" You cried out as you slammed into the dirt. Broad picked you up by the head, and threw you into a tree. He repeated the process chortling all the while. You struggled to stay conscious, the pain becoming unbearable. Broad threw you to the ground, and kicked you in the head. Over and over, his foot launched into the side of your head, your skull threatening to crack open under the force. Broad, laughing still, picked you up and slammed you into the ground. By now, your entire body went numb, the pain overwhelming your senses.

"Aw...giving up already? That's too bad..." He said in a malicious tone. "Oh well..." Broad turned, dropping his sword to the ground. You heard a shing, sounding like a blade being unsheathed.

"N-no, please don't, NO!!" Fluttershy screamed.

Your eyes shot open. Fluttershy was in danger!! Broad was going to kill her!!

You stood up, using your sword for support.

"DON'T YOU TOUCH HER, YOU TREACHEROUS PIECE OF SHIT!!” You screamed at the top of your lungs. You sprinted forward at speed's rivaling Dash's flight. Broad stopped, his dagger raised in midair. You thrust the sword through his back, coming out of his chest.

You saw the blood flow out from the wound around your sword.

"This was you!! Not me, you!! We were best friends! I trusted you! And you had to go and do this!!" You thrust the sword deeper with each sentence until it reached the hilt before you pulled it out, the sickening sound of slicing flesh emanating. Broad coughed, and fell to the ground, unmoving.

You dropped your sword, and walked over to Fluttershy, who was staring at Broad in shock. Tears were running down her cheeks. You fell to your knees in front of Fluttershy.

"You're...alright...n-now..." You spoke in a cracked, pained voice before you fell to the grass on your back. Fluttershy, coming back to reality, bent over you, fresh tears flowing.

"E-Epee!? Epee!!" She screamed before your hearing faded. She was yelling garbled words, tears flowing down her face, dripping onto yours.

Everything's...alright now...

Chapter 23

Blood splattered onto the stone floor, echoing throughout the room. Czar was kneeling on the floor, hunched over, a deluge of blood flowing from his mouth. The fit had arrived out of nowhere, causing Czar to go in shock. The dying king tried to stand, but the retching and pain had made him stay there. He crawled over to his desk, where his medication lay. He grabbed the edge of the desk, but didn't have enough strength pull himself up. He fell back down to the ground, still vomiting blood, pain shooting up and down his body.

Czar was going to die.

His mind flashed many memories by his eyes as he lay there, soaked in his own blood. The images stopped once they reached Celestia. Celestia's face, her beautiful horn, her magnificent wings...someone he was completely unworthy of loving. She was strong and determined, and he, feeble and defeated.

"Celestia..." He muttered, almost inaudibly, his life almost completely leaving his body.

"Broad's missing?! What happened!?" Rose's voice echoed through the halls outside of Czar's quarters. He tried to call for help, but he didn't have the strength.

Czar reached out toward an open window, the sun now setting.

"I...love you...Celestia..."

There, that night, on the cold, hard, stone floor, Czar died. Alone, heartbroken, his son a traitor to his country, his feelings for the woman he loved not even voiced.

***

The last thing you remembered before you lost consciousness was Fluttershy, leaning over you, crying and yelling something to you. The next thing you knew, you felt like you'd been sleeping for a few centuries, laying on something soft. You felt the presence of a few people around you. You cracked one eye open, then another. You looked down to see Fluttershy, Pinkie, Dash, Twilight, and Rarity at your bedside, holding on to your hands. Each wore a concerned, scared look, save for Fluttershy, who was squeezing your hand very tight, crying while Applejack had an arm around her, trying to comfort her. Fluttershy took notice to you, and gasped.

"Oh thank Celestia, you're alive!!" She cried, hugging you around your neck. You couldn't think of anything to say, your mind frozen. Fluttershy took advantage of the moment, and kissed you. You felt how damp her cheeks were as she pressed her lips against yours, applying more pressure than her normal soft kisses. She broke lip contact, and continued to hug you around the neck.

"I thought I l-l-lost you!!" She choked through her tears.

"I'm so sorry..." You whispered, feeling as though as you wanted to cry.

"C-c'mon, Fluttershy...get...get ahold of yourself..." Dash said, her voice cracking and warbling, as if she was holding back tears.

"I thought you were dead!" Pinkie cried, joining Fluttershy in hugging you, this time, she wrapped her arms around your waist.

"S-seriously, everyone, s-stop crying...if you keep crying yer g-gonna ma-make me cry, t-t-too..." Dash managed to stammer out before she, too, broke into tears, taking the other side of your waist to start crying on. The situation had a comic feel to it, but you only managed to hold everyone that was grabbing onto you, trying to hold back your own tears. After a while, Pinkie and Dash had calmed down, and were sitting in a chair, Dash blushing deeply and looking away, embarrassed. Fluttershy was the only one who was still holding you. She had stopped crying, but only held onto you in silence.

"This is just like last time isn't it? Except, you didn't all cry as soon as I woke up, but it's still got a hella lot of deja vu. I take it you fixed me up this time, too, huh, Twilight?"

She nodded. She wiped her eyes before she spoke, "I fixed your injuries, but you wouldn't wake up..." Tears continued to stream, but she never sobbed.

"Thank you." After more silence, you asked everyone something.

"What happened to Broad?" With that, everyone stayed silent.

"He, uh...got away, sugarcube. We went back to find him after we brought you back, and he was gone..."

"And the henchmen?"

"The same"

You sighed. You were just glad everyone was alive.

"Applejack, is your shoulder okay?" You asked, remembering her wound.

"Ah, yeah, it's fine now. Twilight fixed it up instantly."

"That's good..."

More silence. Fluttershy was still hugging you.

"I had Spike send a letter to Celestia about this...we need to go visit her soon..." Twilight said, breaking the silence.

"How come she can't come here like last time?" You asked, recalling the day Princess Celestia and Luna had arrived at Fluttershy's cottage.

"It's safe to visit her..." She responded.

You nodded, understanding.

***

You, Fluttershy, Twilight, and the others' footsteps echoed through the halls of Princess Celestia's palace, the white halls gleaming in the light from the sun. Eventually, you reached the throne room, the gigantic doors magically swinging open when you all had arrived.

"Well, hello again, Epee. I'm glad to see you're still fine," Celestia greeted you as you entered the room. You all had bowed, showing your respect.

"I swear, this is always so awkward..." Celestia muttered.

"Yes, quite," Luna agreed.

"Eheh, sorry," You murmured.

"Ah, pay no heed. Anywho, I believe we all know why you all are here..." She said sadly.

You all nodded. "Broad..." Dash said with a sigh.

"Yes, I have...bad news..." Celestia spoke in an ominous tone. "King Czar, the ruler of Marvalia, a country separated from Equestria by Everfree Forest, was found...dead, just before sunset

"W-What!?" You shouted without thinking. "He's...d-dead?" You asked, choking back tears.

Celestia looked down her eyes filled with pain and sorrow. "Yes..." She answered softly.

You fell to your knees. Your father, the man who took you in after you lost your parents, was dead. You began to cry. Tears flowed from their ducts, running down your cheeks and dripping onto the floor. Fluttershy and Dash kneeled down beside you, trying to comfort. You hung your head. Anger, depression and shame flowed from within you.

"Th-that bastard Broad," You said, your voice trembling with anger.

"No, Broad hadn't killed Czar, Epee," Celestia explained. "His sickness had won...he died from his terminal illness..."

You looked up with haste. "How did they find him?" You asked.

"I'll let you talk to the person who found him..." Celestia waved her hand, as if beckoning someone out of your view into the room. From behind a door to the left, a small man walked into the room. He had short, scruffy brown hair, and was very thin, as if he had an extremely high metabolism.

"Montesquieu?" You asked as you stood up. You wiped away your tears.

"Yes, hello, Epee. It's been awhile." He said in a high voice. Montesquieu was Czar's adviser, and best friend. "I regret to say that I found Czar dead in his quarters around midnight...He's being buried later today." He said, his voice sinking. Finding your best friend dead wasn't one of the most cheerful events. His distress was understandable.

"He...I found him collapsed on the floor, lying in a puddle of his own b-blood..." Montesquieu stopped, as if the image appeared in his head. He took a deep breath, readying himself to continue. "His illness attacked his lungs and bones...making his body frail and weak. He had a strong will, but his body was feeble. He would have horrible coughing fits, and he would vomit blood...I can only imagine the pain...." Montesquieu shuddered. "I'm sorry, I can't continue."

"I-It's fine..." You replied in a dead tone. Czar had died a painful, lonely death while that treacherous bastard Broad was still alive. You had hoped he had died of blood loss, or had been eaten by a manticore somewhere in the forest.

"Celestia," A deep, gruff voice spoke up. Tactic rushed into the throne room, holding up a paper that looked like a letter.

"You've received a letter."

"Thank you, Tactic," Celestia said as she levitated the letter and brought it to her. She looked at the face of the envelope, and gasped.

"It's from Czar..." She said. "He must've said it before he..." She stopped as she opened.

"Celestia, may I read it?" You ask, walking over to her.

"Of course," She opened the letter, and you both read it in silence.

A few seconds into the letter, you noticed what it was. Czar had confessed love for Celestia. You held back tears as you stopped reading. He had died without ever being able to hear Celestia's response. You stopped reading it, giving Celestia her privacy.

She must've read the letter multiple times, because it'd been about 10 minutes since she began reading. You looked at Celestia's face. She had tears flowing down her cheeks, her fists were clenched.

"I'm sorry Princess, but, I have to ask you something." Tactic asked. Celestia's face was obstructed by the letter to everyone but you; only you could see her tears. She wiped away her tears, and lowered the letter.

"Yes?"

"You had known King Czar for about 30 years, correct."

"How did you find out?" Celestia asked, surprised.

"In your personal archives, I found five letters from him to you. I and Epee have read them." He said. He looked like he expected the worst reaction.

"I'm glad you found them...I had lost track of them years ago."

Tactic handed a piece of paper to Celestia.

"I copied the letters onto this for my reference. I'm sorry for not telling you sooner."

"It's quite fine..." She said before she read.

After she was finished, she looked down. Celestia looked like she was quite miffed.

"Please leave everyone. I have a few words that need to be spoken with Epee. With no question, all left the room, even Luna.

"I'm so sorry, Epee..." She spoke.

"...You had heard of me, yet you forgot eventually..." You sighed.

"Please forgive me, if only I had a better memory, I-I," Celestia began to stammer apologetically.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. Whoa. It's alright, I understand, you already had so much on your hands, it slipped your mind. It's fine. And it's awkward to see royalty become so apologetic...it's kind of creepy." You told her.

Celestia said nothing, just stayed silent.

"Do you know my and Czar's history?" She asked.

"...Other than he came to Equestria for a while, no.

"Czar and I...were...well...we had...feelings. After about a year or so of him staying here, we began to become attached to each other. Soon, we had found that we had developed feelings for each other."

"You fell in love with each other didn't you?" You sigh.

"Yes..." Celestia looked as if she was holding back tears. "I did love him...but..."

"But what?"

"Never once has he said to me, 'Celestia, I love you.' Seeing that letter, finally being told by him that he loved me..."

"I understand..." You wish you could find some way to comfort her, but no support came to mind. Nothing to make her feel better.

You felt something touch your arm. You looked down see a hand. Celestia's hand.

"You are the closest thing to Czar I know. For my sake, please take care of yourself. Where ever fate takes you, just please, keep yourself safe.

"I...I will..." You try your best to keep your composure. Fresh memories of Czar, the closest thing to a father he could ever have, were still fresh in your mind.

"Can you bring everyone back in here? We need to get a move on with this." Celestia sighed. You say nothing, only nod.

"Let's get to why we're here," She said, looking over the faces of Fluttershy, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and all the others standing. "Epee, Montesquieu came to give you a choice."

"That choice being," He picked up from where Celestia stopped, "whether stay here and live in Equestria or go back to Marvalia, tell Terra about your innocence, and stay there."

"Wait, Terra!?" You shouted.

Montesquieu sighed. "Yes...Terra is now queen of Marvalia."

Those words shocked you with a great force. You felt sorry for her, having the job of ruler thrust upon her shoulders so suddenly.

"I...can go back?" You asked. Montesquieu just nodded. Fluttershy gasped in shock.

You sat down and thought. You thought for what seemed like hours, brooding over the choices. You can stay in Equestria, and Terra will always think of you as a traitor. Or, you can go and prove your innocence, and live there with her. Both choices seemed promising. You wanted to prove your innocence, and be on good terms with Terra, but...you wanted to live in Equestria with Fluttershy, the one you loved, and with your friends, the friends who risked their lives to help you last night. Also, if she found out about your innocence, she might lose concentration on Quarrel, and they would end up being rid of her. Even though Broad was no longer leader of Quarrel, there was most likely a backup leader in case of emergency. If you let her believe you were a traitor, then she would focus on crushing Quarrel. You sighed, your decision chosen.

"Montesquieu," You said, standing up.

"Yes?"

"...I want to stay here. Please don't tell Terra about any of this."

The whole gang squealed and tackled you, a group hug formulating.

"Uh, was it that surprising?" You asked as all the girls, save for Applejack who just sat back and chuckled, squeezed you.

"No, but it was still scary!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"Eheh..." You chuckled nervously. Celestia, Luna, Montesquieu, and Tactic laughed at the scene.

"Well, I guess it's decided," Montesquieu chuckled.

"Yeah," You said. "Take good care of her. She was my best friend." Montesquieu nodded.

"Well, I must go back. Terra will wonder why I've been gone so long. Good luck Epee, hope your love life goes well," he winked.

"Oh, quiet you," you chuckled. With that, he left the throne room, into the hallways of Canterlot Castle.

"Don't you think you should be getting back as well?" Luna said, gaining your attention.

"Agreed." You stated. "I hope to see you again, Princess Luna, Princess Celestia." You all waved and left the throne room, into the hall.

"I need to ask Celestia something. I'll be right back," You said before walking back into the throne room.

"Forget something, Epee?" Luna asked.

"Err, no, not quite." You looked to Celestia. "I need to ask you something."

"Alright then. What is it?"

"Czar loved you. He had ever since he first met you. How do you feel about that?"

Celestia sighed. "Czar...was an amazing person. I honestly wished we could be more than friends. If you're asking me why I didn't request him to stay...I don't really know. This is not something I ask myself often. But, Czar was one of the few people who talked to me earnestly. He looked past the fact I ruled a large kingdom, or that I'm an alicorn. He treated me as an equal, nothing higher or less. Much like you, Epee. I can see why Fluttershy and the others have feelings for you. You...are a unique person. Be proud of that."

"Oh, uh, thanks," You meekly replied, hoping that she didn't mean what you think she meant when she said that you treated her like Czar, who she had feelings for.

"But...when he told me he was going to die...that's when I began to question my emotions. I am upset that I couldn't ask him...to stay.

"Well, don't beat yourself up about it. Czar wouldn't want you to dwell on it."

Celestia smiled. "Thank you, Epee. Now go, your friends are waiting."

"I know. Goodbye," You said as you walked out of the throne room. You heard one last exchange of words before the doors closed.

"Please don't tell me you're beginning to fancy him, Tia."

"Are you making me go on a guilt trip, Luna? Is it not uncommon for one to have feelings for more than one person?"

"Just because he reminds you of Czar doesn't mean you should go getting the hots for him." Luna sighed.

"You're just jealous because you have a little crush on him too, aren't you, little sister?" Celestia teased.

"You know me so well, Tia," Luna groaned.

You face-palmed. You now had the royal sisters enamored with you. You must have the worst of luck.

Chapter 24

You had arrived back at Fluttershy's cottage from Canterlot, the events of last night and this morning heavy on your mind. You had a mix of emotions going through you. You were happy that everyone was alright, and you had survived, but you were distraught. The man who had taken you in when you lost your parents, the man who was essentially your father, was dead. He died a painful, lonely death. He died, believing you had betrayed him. He died, unknown of Celestia's feelings toward him. The traitor who took everyone's trust and smashed it under his feet was still alive, somewhere. You sat on the couch, staring off into space. Your heart ached, your eyes were tearing, the droplets full of emptiness and despair. Fluttershy took notice to you, and came to sit down beside you. She wrapped her arms around you, wanting to support you.

The tears now came through. It might've been the warmth and the love that filled you with the embrace, but you weren't worrying about that. You hung your head and cried. Cried for Czar, for Terra...

Given a few minutes, you calmed down. You wiped your eyes and sighed.

"Thanks...sorry..." You said, embarrassed.

Fluttershy shook her head. "No, it's fine..."

You returned the embrace. "Thank you...for everything...for letting me stay when you found me, for helping me make friends...for loving me..."

Fluttershy didn't say anything for a while. "You...lied when you said you didn't remember anything..."

Oh crap. You forgot about that.

"I-I'm sorry, I didn't want to worry you all. If I would've said something, you all would've focused everything, and you might've done something dangerous-"

Your words were cut off by Fluttershy's lips against yours. You were surprised for a second, but soon returned the kiss. The two of you sat there on the couch, kissing, in love, wanting nothing more than making the other happy.

To both of your dismay, you broke lip contact.

"I don't care. All that matters is that you're alright..." She said softly.

You smiled. "Still, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have lied. Ugh, I better be quiet before this goes on forever...

Fluttershy giggled.

After more silence, you wanted to ask something.

"Do you want to go for a walk? I want to get some fresh air to help clear my head."

"Sure," She said standing up. You stood with her, and you walked out the door.

The two of you walked in silence, holding each other’s' hand, on the path to Ponyville. The sun hung low in the sky, causing the sky to be washed in a beautiful orange shade. You reached Ponyville, and you walked through the streets, whose streetlights were starting to turn on, giving a nice glow to the town. You could've sworn you caught a glimpse of a rainbow streaking across the sky, rearranging certain clouds and dispersing some, trying to sculpt a more romantic image. You smiled to yourself. As tough as Dash might be, she's got an eye for romance, you thought to yourself.

You looked down at Fluttershy. She looked back up at you and smiled. By now, you had walked to a certain spot in Ponyville where the buildings started to thin out, and grass spread out onward, trees littering the horizon. You and Fluttershy sat down right next to each other. The two of you watched the sun as it slowly dipped behind the horizon. You let out a soft 'wow' as you looked at the sunset. Rainbow Dash had expertly positioned the clouds lower than normal, having the sun make rays of orange peek through the clouds.

You and Fluttershy looked at each other yet again. You studied her visage. She was small, beautiful, innocent, kind to all, loving and caring. And she loved you. And you loved her just as much.

"I'm glad I met you, Fluttershy," You said just before you kissed Fluttershy, the sunset just behind you two. Your only response was her smile that you felt.

From then on, that spot would be your and Fluttershy's special place.

The end...

Epilogue

1 year later, Epee proposed to Fluttershy at their 'special place.'

2 years later, Rainbow Dash was asked to audition for the Wonderbolts to be a member of their team after Epee recommended her. (He got a little help from Celestia.)

3 years later, after Dash joined the Wonderbolts, she and Soarin began dating. A few months after that, Dash came back to Ponyville with the news of engagement.

5 years later, all traces of Quarrel were obliterated by Terra and her iron will to protect Marvalia from anything thrown at it. Terra also had a son with a man by the name of Tempest, who later died in a construction accident.

7 years later, Rarity met the man of her dreams when visiting her parents at Manehatten.

9 years later, Twilight met a unicorn by the name of Shimmer while visiting Celestia and Canterlot.

12 years later, Pinkie fell in love with newcomer in Ponyville who she threw a welcoming party for.

15 years later, Terra is diagnosed with a fatal illness, very similar to what Czar had.

18 years later, Broad returned to Marvalia, in hopes everyone forgot about him. Celestia told Terra how Epee was innocent, and it was Broad all along you was behind everything. Broad was later executed by guillotine on the spot.

21 years later, it was announced that Terra's son, Ventus, was free of any illness, and he would be the next ruler of Marvalia.

25 years later, Terra died of the fatal illness. She died quickly in her sleep. Montesquieu and Ventus were at her bedside. Epee was snuck into Marvalia with the help of Luna to go to her funeral.

26 years later, with everything he learned from Terra, Ventus ruled Marvalia justly and fairly. Marvalia was on a smooth path.

Epee, Fluttershy, Dash, Twilight, Pinkie, Applejack, and Rarity lived their lives together, sharing memories and making them. They lived the rest of their lives, their friendship tight and unbreakable, and Epee and Fluttershy's love for each other never faltered at all. They stayed together, in love and bonded in the ultimate way for eternity.

***

I just want to say…thank you. I’m glad you all enjoyed this as much I did. Getting the feedback from you really helped a lot, both the positive and the negative. This was my first fic after all. Of course there’s gonna be errors. But still, negative review helps a lot, because you get the feedback from a different point of view. I recommended this story to one of my friends, and they loved it, even though they weren’t even bronies. This is farewell though, for there is now, no more False Traitor, True.

Thanks for reading, cheers from Epee and the Mane 6

-Sincerely, with gratitude,

NekoNushi.

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