From: Fluttershy

To: Applejack

Seven days after the death of Rarity

Dear Applejack,

Stop wasting your time. Rainbow Dash is dead.

Fluttershy

Her Princess

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“Why do you think she’s dead?” asked Luna.

Fluttershy was expressionless. She’d just stopped thinking altogether. Thinking about what was happening to her life just made her miserable. Rainbow Dash was gone and that was that.

“I told you—the Everfree Forest is a nightmare. If she didn’t starve, then something got her.” Her tone was cold. Luna shifted uncomfortably, which Fluttershy found odd. How could Luna be the uncomfortable one in all this? Everyone in Fluttershy’s life was dropping like flies, and Luna had the nerve to think she was uncomfortable? No, if Fluttershy could be strong in this, then Luna could be strong a thousand times over.

“But why do you want to think she’s dead?” she pressed further.

Fluttershy’s face twisted up in anger. “I don’t! I just know she is!” Fluttershy snapped. “Now are you going to help Twilight, or am I going to get to arrange another funeral?!”

Fluttershy stomped out of the room, fuming. Now Rainbow Dash was gone too. Sweetie Belle had gone missing and Rainbow Dash had vowed to find her. It should have been simple: go into the forest; leave it with the filly in her hooves. Rainbow Dash was too confident to just disappear like that. What could she be doing for a week? Why did she abandon her friends?

Her pace was somewhere between a trot and a gallop. As she left the room far behind, she ran faster and faster through the long, solemn halls.

She felt tears starting to form. She hated tears. Tears made her weak.

So she ran faster.

The hallway seemed to stretch on forever. It felt like a nightmare. She wanted to escape the hallway of tall windows, but no matter how fast she ran, it never ended. There were no hallways leading other wings and no other rooms. It was a blur around her.

Rainbow Dash was gone too, she was dead. Something savage had gotten to her, and it’d only be a matter of time before Applejack ‘found’ her. Pinkie would die too. She was already in the hospital, so how much longer would it be? She was always so sensitive to others around her, and she wouldn’t last without her friends. Applejack couldn’t handle that kind of heartbreak, and would follow soon after.

How far would Fluttershy make it? If Twilight didn’t wake up, would she have the heart to keep living?

Paranoia was about to set in when the thought of seeing Rarity again crossed her mind. It would be just a brief prick of pain... and they’d all be together again.

Fluttershy saw a familiar face standing in front of a large marble door at the end of the hallway.

“Princess Celestia!” cried Fluttershy.

Celestia turned around. “Fluttershy?” she said, her face instantly riddled with concern.

Fluttershy toppled over and came to rest at Celestia’s hooves, crying. She lay there for a few seconds, quickly becoming a soggy mess. “Princess!” she wailed like a child. “I can’t do this anymore! I wanna go home! I wanna see my mom and dad and I just wanna go home! Please let me go home!”

Celestia dropped to her knees, put a wing around Fluttershy, and smiled warmly at her.

“Fluttershy, Twilight needs you,” she said simply, like a mother to her child. “You can’t leave her.”

Something about her tone made it seem like Celestia was trying to be comforting, but it was one of the last things Fluttershy expected to hear. She was sure such a pathetic display would tug at the heartstrings of somepony so noble and graceful. At least she thought she was sure...

“Wha-what?” said Fluttershy in disbelief. “I-I can’t. I’m a mess! I’m no use to anypony! Please, don’t make me! I wanna go home!”

Celestia closed her eyes smugly and smiled. “Not another word! Your friend needs you,” she said with an eerie, warm lightness. It was almost like she didn’t get how emotional Fluttershy was being, like she was seeing something else besides a broken little pony. Fluttershy was bawling her eyes out, and Celestia was acting like she was talking to a child.

“P-please! Ha-have mercy!”

“Please, Fluttershy, follow me.”

And just like that, she was being escorted back to Luna’s observatory by Celestia. It was the simplest, yet most surreal walk she’d ever experienced. She was having an emotional breakdown inside of an emotional breakdown, and was being led through the castle like she was on a tour.

And Princess Celestia just didn’t seem to care at all.

“It’s a shame Luna requests special sanctions for this wing of the castle. A pony such as my sister needs her privacy and space, but there is such a somber beauty to her choice of interior design that I wish more could see it,” said Celestia to the crying pony.

Before she knew it, they were knocking on Luna’s door. Luna promptly answered it. Unlike Celestia, she was sensitive and aware of the scene. She took one look at Celestia’s unerringly warm smile and just shook her head.

Fluttershy saw this, and then Luna looked directly at her with caring, understanding eyes.

“I sought thy return,” said Luna, opening the door and stepping aside. Fluttershy walked in aimlessly.

Celestia leaned down to Luna’s ear. “Sister, next time let me know if she needs anything. I don’t want her getting lost in the castle,” she said under her breath.

Luna winced as though Celestia had scratched a chalkboard right in her ear. “She hath all she needs. Pray, worry not of her wellness, and concern thyself elsewhere,” she hissed.

Celestia nodded and left. Luna shut the door softly behind her and immediately turned and hugged Fluttershy. Fluttershy had already broken down.

“What did she say to you? What did that horrible pony say to you?” whispered Luna as she hugged her tightly.

Fluttershy mumbled something incoherent. She was completely inconsolable now and Luna must have understood this. While Fluttershy couldn’t speak and was only barely aware of the world around her, she remembered warmness, a caring hug, and kind words. Whatever restraints Luna had earlier had come off. Fluttershy knew what she was hearing was the real Luna.

Fluttershy mumbled something else. It was odd that she couldn’t remember her own words, but that she could remember Luna’s. Judging by her response, she could tell that she must have said something to the effect of, I don’t know what I’m doing anymore.

“I can’t tell you I know exactly what you feel, but I can say you’re doing everything right,” said Luna, sniffling a bit. “You’re the bravest little pony I know, coming with your friend, and I’m so sorry I left you alone.” There was a passion in her voice that pushed her to the verge of tears herself. “There’s so much wrong with this world, and it may seem like you’re never doing the right thing, but know that you are. You do whatever it takes to make it through the day. You do whatever feels right, nothing more. If anypony tries to tell you otherwise, you pay them no attention.”

The was a silence and more crying. Fluttershy managed to say something she wouldn’t remember later. “Y-you’re t-talking a lot...” she stammered through hacking sobs.

Luna smiled, a few tears streaming her face. “I’m sorry. Sometimes I just get carried away and—”

“No, no! It’s o-okay. I’ve j-just never h-heard you t-talk so much. It’s nice. You have a p-p-pretty voice,” she said.

“You’ll never go a day without hearing it. I promise to never leave you again. We’re going to be in this together, okay?”

“Mmhmm... Are you okay?” asked Fluttershy.

“I—I am...”

Fluttershy felt the trembling from before and wasn’t convinced, but she let it go.

From: Fluttershy

To: Applejack

Seven days after the death of Rarity

Dear Applejack,

I’m so sorry. You should just rip up that last letter I sent. It was horrible of me. Here I was talking about hope and then I squander all yours. Rainbow isn’t dead. She’s alive and I know it. I just don’t know what to think anymore. I say horrible things to ponies, I’m useless, and even though Twilight needs me, all I want to do is run away. I’m weak and everypony else would be better off without me.

If you never talk to me ever again, I’ll understand.

Fluttershy

Fluttershy gave Luna the letter, who promptly sent it off in a flash of dark violet flame. Luna was resting atop her bed in a position Fluttershy noticed her in often. She figured the bed was Luna’s favourite spot to think. Fluttershy was sitting at the desk.

“We all make mistakes,” said Luna as she pensively watched the magic flame and the nothingness thereafter. “Applejack has made them and will make them. You’ve made them and will make them. No one is perfect.”

“Is it really that simple?” replied Fluttershy. “Aren’t there some ponies who don’t make the kinds of mistakes I make?”

“They don’t matter because they aren’t going through what you’re going through. They don’t make mistakes because their hearts don’t cry themselves to sleep every night. They don’t make mistakes because they don’t have to cope with emotions that never rest. I’m sure if they did, they would do so much worse than you.”

Luna smiled at her and Fluttershy smiled back.

“So, what have you learned about Twilight?” asked Fluttershy.

Luna sighed and silence followed. Fluttershy could see Luna taking her time with her response. Luna was thinking, but whether it was how to word something magically complex so that Fluttershy could understand, or to explain tragedy in a way Fluttershy could handle, she didn’t know.

“What I’ve learned...” said Luna finally. “Is that she’s under the effects of some very, very old magic.”

“So—that’s bad?”

Luna rolled over onto her back and looked up at the starry ceiling, resting her hooves upon her stomach. “It’s not bad, per se, but it is—unorthodox...”

Fluttershy could tell she was still struggling for the right words.

“Old magic is unrequited by today’s standards. Today’s magic is a science, calculated and knowing,” explained Luna as though she were rehearsing the steps to a script. “Centuries ago, ponies wove together spells with their hearts, like a painter and her masterpiece. One would feel the spell, and emotion would bring it forth. It allowed for some magnificent effects—and some less magnificent ones. Now, such magic has been forgotten in the hearts of the common, and is considered impossible.”

Luna must have noticed Fluttershy’s befuddlement. Being a pegasus held the simple implication that she knew next to nothing about magic. It wasn’t that Fluttershy wasn’t interested, but it was of no use to her, so no one ever bothered talking to her about it. Most unicorns would think it a waste of time, and some were even snobby about sharing the arcane with non-unicorns. However, Luna was sharing it with her, and for this Fluttershy was happy.

It was like being let in on a great secret.

Fluttershy had always been fascinated with the stories of woodland faeries and dryads, spirits of nature that brought good or bad fortune to those who deserved them. She liked magic, and nature was her version of it. Yet, that interest had always entertained a curiosity in the arcane.

“I’m sorry,” said Fluttershy. “I’m trying to understand, and I know this is probably a dumb question, but does that mean old magic is stronger?”

“It’s just different. Old magic doesn’t translate that well to new magic. For example—” Luna levitated a quill from the desk and magically enlarged it to about twice its original size. “To every modern spell, there is a dispel or counterspell; the spell to get rid of the first one.”

With a flash of her horn, Luna shrunk the quill back down.

“Old magic is the exact same way, but it requires the appropriate dispel, one of old magic.” Luna closed her eyes and grimaced. For a second, it looked like she was crying, and then it was gone. The feather began to glow bright gold. Luna then dispelled it.

Fluttershy thought really hard about what she saw. She wanted to understand, if only to prove to Luna that she wasn’t a waste of time. Maybe if she could prove she was intelligent, it’d make up for her being a ticking, emotional time bomb.

“It’s like—a different language? That no one speaks anymore?” said Fluttershy.

Luna sat up and looked impressed. Fluttershy contained a growing smile. Acting less excited than she was had always been a strength of hers.

“I think you explained it much better than me.”

“Thanks...” Fluttershy was certain Luna was just being nice, but she couldn’t help but think that her observation was pretty intuitive, if only for a pegasus.

Luna went back to looking at the ceiling. “Indeed. It’s fortunate that she was left with me. I may be one of the last ponies alive who knows old magic.”

“What about Celestia?” she blurted.

There was a brief silence. Luna didn’t steal her pensive gaze from the starry ceiling. “No,” she said with sharpness somewhere between annoyance and anger. “Celestia doesn’t know old magic, or if she does, she’s forgotten what it means to us.”

From: Fluttershy

To: Applejack

Thirteen days after the death of Rarity

Dear Applejack,

I’m sorry. I’m a pathetic pony that nopony should ever listen to. All I do is hurt ponies around me. I’m useless and the world would be better off without me. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry for what I said. If you ever do find Rainbow Dash, tell her I died. It’d be for the best.

I’m only writing you to tell you these things. Don’t waste your time on a reply to a useless pony such as myself. I don’t deserve the honour of being Twilight’s caretaker. Send a replacement and you’ll never have to hear from my awful mouth again.

Goodbye.

Fluttershy

It was past ten, and Fluttershy was crying again. She was thinking of her friends like she did every night at about the same time. It was a ritual, after which she’d be tired enough to finally fall asleep. Her head was in Luna’s lap, and Luna was stroking her mane, softly humming a nocturne.

At first, Fluttershy had tried to push her away, not wanting to bother Her more than she already was. She cried often without warning, and sometimes she wasn’t able to keep herself quiet. As hard as she tried to keep herself bottled up, she had to let something escape. She felt horrible subjecting Luna to her constant whining, often moving to the opposite corner with a pillow to help muffle the sound.

But Luna had told her ‘no’. Fluttershy needed another pony to be there sitting with her while she cried, if only to make her feel better.

And she had been right.

Fluttershy had always wondered how far the grace of royalty carried a pony. She assumed that behind closed doors, they were far more candid. They put on a display of infinite understanding and kindness for the public, but when it came to their personal lives they had to break that facade; get angry, be upset, be something real.

Or so she thought. Luna was putting her assumption to shame.

Luna was just as regal and graceful in private as she was in public. She never got too close, she never suggested anything but the exact thing that Fluttershy needed, and she always knew what to say—for the most part.

There were a few times where Luna misinterpreted her feelings and said something that came off horribly. Fluttershy usually lashed out at her and wound up apologizing later. She hated herself for being so rude to Luna, mostly because of how warm Luna was being towards her.

Which was far warmer than she expected.

Luna had an intriguing reputation to most. She was shrouded in mystery, and because of this, she was subject to dark speculation. Ponies asked questions, and to those questions were a myriad of possible answers. What does the Princess of the Night do in the darkest hours? What sorts of magics does she possess? Is she still bitter over what happened so long ago?

The general consensus was that she was a distant hermit of cold practicality. She cared little for passion or friendship, only of loyalty. She was alone, and either didn’t mind it, or didn’t care enough to change it.

Yet, in her lap, Fluttershy saw something else entirely, kindness; a forceful will to improve the lives of those around her. She didn’t like to think it surprised her, though. Fluttershy always had her suspicions that Luna was a big softy deep down. And right now, that’s what she needed.

“She said she would...” cried Fluttershy.

Luna paused the humming of her song. She always stopped to show she was listening. It had been almost a week since she sent out her two letters to Applejack. Yesterday, she sent another one, apologizing profusely—Still no response.

“She said ‘a few days’...” repeated Fluttershy. “She said it—She never lies, but she’s not talking to me. She’s never going to talk to me again after what I said.”

“She’s very upset with you,” said Luna quietly. “You said something you shouldn’t have.”

“I know!” she wailed, burying her face deeper into Luna.

Luna remained calm, but elevated her voice just slightly to be heard over her sobs. “That’s a good thing. Do you know why?”

“No. How can that be a good thing?”

Luna took a deep and silent breath. “Because everyone needs to be angry sometimes. Applejack is going through what you’re going through. How would you feel if she told you to come back home because Twilight was never going to wake up, and that you were wasting your time?”

Fluttershy was silent for a moment. She wasn’t thinking, for she already knew her answer. It was actually saying it that was hard.

“I’d be mad,” she muttered. “I’d—I’d probably not want to talk to her.”

“Why?” asked Luna, wiping at Fluttershy’s cheeks.

Fluttershy noticed the same trembling from before in Luna’s gentle hooves as they touched her face. She seemed nervous or afraid, yet nothing about the way she spoke gave that suspicion any sort of merit.

“Because it’s a horrible thing to say... I’m a horrible pony, I know,” she said, defeated.

Luna shook her head. “We’re not talking about what you did, we’re talking about how you’d feel. You think you’re a cruel, heartless pony because of what you said, but we both know that’s a venomous lie. You are quite the opposite, the very embodiment of kindness.”

Fluttershy smiled weakly.

“Yet that’s not the point,” continued Luna. “You’d be furious if somepony told you to give up on Twilight. Even I’d be livid. The reason why you’d go so far as to not talk to a dear friend after such a statement is because they threatened a loved one. They told you that you'd never see them again,” Luna grew distant, her eyes resting on empty space. “Sadly enough, it often takes these sorts of threats to remind us how much we love the ponies we love. And being reminded of the ponies we love is never a bad thing.”

Fluttershy’s sobbing had given over to reflection. Luna certainly had a way of making things thoughtful. She tried to ponder her words as tears still rolled down her cheeks, but such deep thinking after an emotional breakdown had a way of exhausting Fluttershy even further.

“There’s something beautiful about being reminded of how much you love somepony. You know what Applejack’s probably doing right now?” asked Luna.

“What?”

“Searching for Rainbow Dash.”

“It’s after dark though...” said Fluttershy weakly.

Luna smiled. “If I remember her character correctly, she probably hasn’t stopped searching since she read your letter. If there was any rest to be had before, your letter will have played on her stubbornness and have left her in a state of undying devotion. Sometimes devotion is the difference between hearts broken and hearts connected. No matter the outcome, at least she’ll know she loved her friend with all her heart. She's giving it everything she has, and I think that's important to her.”

Fluttershy yawned. She was growing a little tired. Her crying was almost done for the night. Her eyelids were growing heavier, but she still tried to keep talking. It would be rude to fall asleep on a princess. “That does sound like her.”

“Likewise, she still loves you. I think if she heard news that you’d been hurt, she’d probably have a letter to you within the hour, and probably follow it on the next train,” added Luna.

“That sounds like her, too...” she said drowsily. The last of her tears were falling. Exhaustion hit her like a tidal wave, and with it, the blissful haziness that followed. It was her favourite time, the moment just before she fell asleep. For about five minutes each day, she was just tired enough to forget about her friends and how horrible her life was. She was like she was before, carefree and innocent; so tired anything could make her laugh and giggle.

She told herself that she was having a slumber party with her new friend, Luna. Her friend was so soft and gentle...

“Let us pray that someone does not tell you that Twilight will never wake up. I imagine you’d never leave her side either.”

“Nuh-uh!” said Fluttershy with a big smile. She rolled over and made herself comfortable, subconsciously cuddling up a bit closer.

“Ah, I see you’re smiling again. Please don’t stop. It breaks my heart to see anything but a smile on your face,” cooed Luna.

“You’re nice... I hope someone tells me to never leave, because I don’t want to. I like you too much.”

“I—You don’t want to leave?” asked Luna, a hint of confusion in her voice.

Fluttershy shook her head. She figured that Luna must not have known what she meant by that. Or maybe Luna had understood Fluttershy perfectly.

“If this is your hope, I pray that one day all of our hopes come to fruition,” said Luna. Had Fluttershy been more coherent, she might have noticed the sudden change in Luna’s expression. She might have noticed that her princess’ eyes were sparkling with pain. Or maybe not, as Luna was hiding her eyes behind her bangs like a little school filly.

Fluttershy drifted off, muttering something. Luna struggled to make sense of her last ramblings, but to no avail. Those words would be lost to nothingness. In the silence, Luna waited. She held her breath and sat perfectly still, as if the slightest peep would awaken her guest. Should she wake up again, she may need to cry to get back to sleep.

As soon as she was certain that Fluttershy had fallen asleep, Luna began to cry.

Because princesses had rituals and needed sleep too.

“Can I get the mint chocolate chip?” asked Fluttershy.

“Coming right up, miss,” replied the clerk.

Fluttershy took her ice cream and went to sit down at the table with Lance.

It was dawn. Trace amounts of twilight poured through the glass storefront. The sky was sporting purples and oranges, and the air was still frosty and cool. Fluttershy was a little tired from waking up so early, but it had been the only time Lance could take her out.

Unlike before, there was no one else in the shoppe, and Fluttershy found comfort in the privacy. Her crying would go unheard if she had to. She was crying less lately, which she both liked and felt guilty of. She felt like she should be crying more than she did. She still loved her friends more than anything else, but time had worn her out.

“You look beautiful today,” said Lance with a wink.

He had always been a sweetheart to Fluttershy. She knew he was married, so there was obviously no interest, and the age difference was too much for either of them, but still—it never hurt to wake up to kind words and a smiling face, especially since she'd taken the time to do her mane and groom herself rather thoroughly.

“Thanks...” she said replied shyly. “Thanks for getting me out of that castle, too.”

He smiled. “What’d I tell you? It’s a weird place.”

“Yeah, it is.”

They both took a moment to get a spoonful of ice cream. She sighed in comfort at its creamy sweetness, and he silently enjoyed his. She noticed it didn’t taste quite as good this time around. She probably wouldn’t pay as much as she did for it, but the royal purse was meant to be spent. It was more of a treat to just sit down with her friend and talk.

“How long has it been? Three weeks?”

Fluttershy stopped for a moment and thought. “Oh my goodness... It has, hasn’t it?”

He chuckled. “That makes me feel real old. I swear, the older you get, the faster times passes.”

“I—It passed really fast for me too. And I’m still young!” she exclaimed jokingly.

“Yeah, it’s probably because of what you’ve been dealing with. Let me tell you, when my dad passed, that month was a blur. I can’t remember a thing.”

Fluttershy frowned. She had been hoping to not talk about her friends, but everyone seemed so keen on ‘helping’ her get over them. It was tiring, and not helpful for the most part. It wasn’t that she was getting over them, and felt like all these ponies were treading old ground, but that she still wasn’t any closer to getting over them and was starting to wonder if she ever would.

“Yeah, it’s been pretty crazy,” she replied.

He noticed her frowning and quickly changed subjects. “So, you have to tell me. The guys have been telling me you’ve been staying with Princess Luna like—night and day. What’s she like?”

“She’s...” Fluttershy smiled without hesitation at the thought of her new friend. Or maybe not so new, as it had already been three weeks. “...nice...”

“Yeah?” he said, egging on for more details.

“We spend a lot of time talking. Usually about magic, but sometimes about other things. She’s really deep when it comes to certain things.”

“Like what?”

“Just the other day she was telling me her views on life and love—Like what it means to love and live.”

He looked surprised, but not disrespectfully so. Fluttershy imagined that most ponies would think Luna incapable of loving. If Luna’s stories about the truth of her persona were to be believed, Fluttershy counted herself among maybe three or four ponies who actually knew Luna.

“Really? I’d be a liar if I said I wasn’t a bit curious,” he said. “I mean, if it’s classified, don’t tell me cause I don’t want to get in trouble, but I’m pretty good at keeping my mouth shut.

She blushed. “I think she might get mad if I started telling everypony about her. She didn’t even tell me for the longest time, and I’m around her so much. She’s a really sensitive pony, and let’s just say I’ve seen her cry before.”

He looked floored. “Luna? Cry? That is something I never thought I’d hear. When she talks to me, I get chills. There’s just this iciness in her eyes.”

Fluttershy furrowed her brow. “You shouldn’t judge a pony by their cover,” she hissed. “Maybe if more ponies actually knew her, she wouldn’t seem so cold.”

“Err—Yeah, I guess I shouldn’t. Sorry.”

“Sorry, I sort of—” began Fluttershy, catching her own harshness a second too late.

“It’s fine.”

They sat in silence, eating their ice cream.

“So, besides getting to know the princess, what else have you been doing?” asked Lance finally.

“That’s it, really.”

It was at that moment that an older stallion walked into the shoppe. He looked like he was in the military, his blazer sharply decorated with an array of medals. He had a short, practical manecut, and was a charcoal grey. The way Lance immediately stood up at attention confirmed Fluttershy’s assumption of his military background.

“General,” he said with a salute.

“At ease, boy,” said the stallion.

Lance relaxed and gestured to an empty seat. Together they sat down at the table. Fluttershy busied herself with her ice cream, knowing very well that she’d have nothing to do with the military exchange that was about to take place.

“I have a letter for a ‘Miss Fluttershy’,” he said, looking directly at her.

She looked like a squeaked at the mention of her name and hid behind her bangs. She might have been talking to Lance openly only seconds ago, but a big, confident stallion she didn’t know could always turn her back into her usual self in a heartbeat.

“F-for me?” she stuttered.

“Indeed,” he said, pulling it out of his jacket and holding it out for her.

Lance laughed. “Since when does the General of the Royal Equestrian Army deliver letters?!”

“Perhaps around the same time a Captain of the Royal Equestrian Army decides to leave his post to get ice cream?” said the general coolly.

The colour from Lance’s face drained. “Right, sorry, sir.” He got up and shoveled as much ice cream into his mouth as he could on the way to the door before he had to inevitably throw his cup away.

“I’ll see you later!” he said to Fluttershy before leaving.

“Bye!” she called out simply. Her words met the slowly closing glass door. She frowned before turning back to the general. He was still holding her letter out for her to take. She took it, looking down as she did. Her little date had been ruined.

“Thank you,” she muttered.

“You are very welcome. Our noble Princess Luna told me that it came from the ‘Apple’ residence, and that you should most likely read it in private.”

Her eyes grew wide and her stomach churned as the piece of paper in her hooves turned from any simple letter, to the letter she had both prayed for and dreaded for the last two weeks. Of course she was happy to finally hear back from Applejack, but she had a sinking feeling that it wasn’t going to contain anything but anger.

She looked up to him, wondering if there was anything else.

“I’ll leave you to it. Good day, milady,” he said. “And good luck.”

He left and Fluttershy was alone. As Fluttershy opened the letter, she wondered if the general’s last words had been coincidental.

As she read the letter, she found out they weren’t. She noticed the letter was covered with dried tear stains.

From: Applebloom

To: Fluttershy

Twenty-five days after the death of Rarity

Dear Fluttershy,

You gotta come back. Me and Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo really miss you a bunch, especially because of how crazy everything’s gotten. Applejack’s going crazy. She spends everyday in the forest looking for Rainbow, and doesn’t get she’s not coming back. Whenever I talk to her all she says is how she’s let you down.

She’s been ignoring the farm, and I’ve been having to do all her chores, and Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo just keep crying about Rarity and Rainbow. And they’re really freaking me out. All they do is cry a bunch and we don’t ever do anything fun anymore. So then I started thinking about if something happened to Applejack, cause she’s out there really late, and if the monsters can get Rainbow, who says they can’t get her too?

I don’t want to lose my sister too. Please come back and make her come back home so I don’t have to do all her chores forever.

Really hoping you’ll come back,

Applebloom

Fluttershy immediately galloped across the street to a convenience store. She bought parchment and a pen and took them back to the ice cream shoppe.

From: Fluttershy

To: Applebloom

Twenty-five days after the death of Rarity

Dear Applebloom,

I can’t leave because Twilight needs me here, but you tell Applejack to write me back. She’s been ignoring me for the last two weeks. I said some things I shouldn’t have to her, but if she’s ignoring you and the farm, then something is wrong. And I won’t let her down. I promise you, you won’t lose your sister.

Hoping for a letter soon,

Fluttershy

From: Spike

To: Princess Luna

Twenty-six days after the death of Rarity

To address the Princess Luna,

My name is Spike, and I was the reagent librarian of the Ponyville library. Due to recent events I had to resign my position. I did this with a heavy heart as I had grown accustomed to my work here, enjoying it as a life passion.

I come to you now humbly with a request that I would not have had the courage to ask, unless I knew my own well being was at stake. I am completely heartbroken. Twilight Sparkle is my best friend and the only family I have. I hope with all my heart that she comes back to us, but I am prepared for life without her. I always knew that our lifespans would eventually clash, but I did not anticipate it happening so soon.

What I ask is to let me come back to Canterlot so I can be with her. I don’t have money, and come to you in desperation, only recently learning Twilight was staying with you. I don’t know what I’ll do, but I’ll work as hard as I can to earn my keep. This library is full of memories, and I can’t be here anymore.

Sincerely,

Spike

From: Applebloom

To: Fluttershy

Twenty-seven days after the death of Rarity

Dear Fluttershy,

I did what you said. I told her that she needed to write you back. I was as stubborn as I could be. I had the pencil and paper with me, I offered to write it for her, and when she kept saying no, I tried asking questions so I could send something back to you. She got really mad, and pushed me really hard. I cried like a little filly and ran away.

All she said is “I’ll find her.” Over and over again.

Sorry if that’s not enough, but my ribs hurt and it’s getting really hard to buck trees.

Hoping for my sister to come home,

Applebloom

From: Fluttershy

To: Applebloom

Twenty-nine days after the death of Rarity

Dear Applebloom,

She’s taking it too far. If she’s going to pick on little foals, then give this letter to Big Mac to read to Applejack aloud. Let’s see her push him around. Have him read the following.

Applejack, it’s Fluttershy. You know what the worst thing is about losing somepony you love? Not knowing what to do with yourself afterwards. Not knowing if you’re doing, or thinking, the right thing anymore. Ever since I left Ponyville, I’ve cried more than the rest of my entire life put together. Sometimes I cry because I remember them, sometimes I cry because I think about how many mistakes I’ve made, and sometimes it’s because I’m afraid. I’m afraid because I don’t know how I’ll live without them. How can I have happiness if I can’t share it with friends?

Tomorrow it will have been a month. Time is passing so quickly, and yet it feels like neither of us are moving with it. I still remember finding her on her showroom stage every day like I’m there reliving it.

Rainbow Dash isn’t somewhere that can be found, but that’s not a bad thing. No matter what, she’s somewhere very special, hopefully with Rarity. You’re one of the most amazing ponies I know, and if you couldn’t find her, no one could. You’ve done everything you can, and no one can ask anymore of you. Come home, Applejack. Your family needs you.

With hope and love,

Fluttershy

From: The Royal Equestrian Relief Effort

To: Spike

Thirty days after the death of Rarity

Dear Spike,

By the request of Princess Luna

The tragedy in Ponyville has taken a toll on us all. We’ve all lost valued friends, peers, and loved ones, but in our memories they will forever remain. We hope that this small aid will help ease your life while you cope with your loss.

Enclosed in this envelope is a train ticket and an itinerary upon your arrival in Canterlot.

Sincerely,

Fancy Pants

Founder of the Royal Equestrian Relief Effort

From: The Equestrian Department of Labour

To: Trixie Lulamoon

Thirty days after the death of Rarity

Dear Ms. Lulamoon,

Thank you for your patience and cooperation. These are trying times and we know how such delays can affect a pony’s livelihood. We have reviewed your application and are pleased to inform you that we have a position with immediate availability.

Head Librarian of the Ponyville Library

Benefits include: Dental, Medical, Royal Life Coverage, Lodging, and access to premier schooling at a reduced cost.

Starting salary: 30,000 Bits

Respond within the next week if you are interested.

Sincerely,

Elbow Grease

Department of Labour

From: Applebloom

To: Fluttershy

Thirty-three days after the death of Rarity

Dear Fluttershy,

Thank you so much. I’m sorry I’m a bit late replying, but me and Applejack have been doing a ton of fun stuff together. She said sorry like a million times, and we’ve been hanging out ever since. Thank you for giving me my sister back.

Thanks for being my hope,

Applebloom

From: Spike

To: Fluttershy

Thirty-three days after the death of Rarity

Dear Fluttershy,

You’re staying with Luna too? How come nopony tells me these things? I really should have left sooner, sounds like a party. Do you want to get together sometime soon? Staying in that library all by myself has made me a little stir-crazy.

I wanna see Twi too.

And I also need to grovel at Luna’s hooves for everything she’s done for me.

Yours,

Spike

“My, my,” said Luna. “Two letters in one day. You’re getting popular.”

Fluttershy was sitting at one of Luna’s various tables she had recently repurposed to be her writing desk.

“That was really nice of you to bring Spike here. He seems really happy,” replied Fluttershy.

“T’was clever bureaucracy. To draw from the relief fund, one merely needs to prove the death and consequent displacement of two or more ponies from a single event. Whatever happened in Ponyville qualifies as that, if only barely so.”

Fluttershy got up and walked out through the magic walls of Luna’s ‘outdoor’ room to the balcony. She leaned her forehooves on the railing and stared out over the horizon to the setting sun. Luna smiled and followed her out, leaning on the railing beside her.

“I have a new development with Twilight,” said Luna.

“Oh?”

“So, old magic is based on specific emotion, right?”

“Each known spell uses a different emotion or combination of emotions, right?”

“Right," she affirmed. "And then there was whatever trigger she found that put her to sleep,” added Luna.

“Still a theory, but go on,” said Fluttershy with a roll of her eyes.

“A theory?”

“I’m telling you, she’s a really smart pony. I wouldn’t be surprised if she discovered old magic by herself.”

“Possible, and it’s also possible that she found a surviving artifact, but let’s not argue. No matter the case, the emotion that the spell was derived of was not positive. She was sad when it happened.”

“That’s interesting...” she said with a frown.

“All it is, is interesting?” replied Luna, sharing her frown.

“No, it’s good. That’s good progress.” Fluttershy's tone was unconvincing and she knew it. It was flat and unamused.

“What's wrong?" asked Luna.

“Nothing.”

Luna shifted closer to her. “Please, tell me what’s wrong. I want to listen."

“Nothing.”

Luna looked down at her own hooves on the railing. “I’m sorry I can’t make this go faster,” she said, defeated. “It’s just really important to me to tell you everything.”

“Why?” spat Fluttershy.

Luna was taken aback. Her mouth hung open for a half-second and was followed by a flustered look. “Well—I thought you wanted to help.”

“I don’t really help that much.”

“Of course you do.”

“You’re the one finding things out and learning what’s wrong. I’m just the child you get to explain it to. I don’t do anything!” she cried.

She turned her back to the princess and walked back inside the room. She plopped on the bed and sniveled.

“Hey, no. Don’t do that. You’re doing a lot for this. Your support keeps me going,” said Luna compassionately. “And I know Twilight hears you when you sing to her.”

“I don’t want to just sit around and sing anymore! I told my friends that I was going to help Twilight, and so far I've done nothing! I want to go with you!”

“You—you know I can’t do that.”

“Why not? Tell me. Why not?” she repeated tersely.

“Because that world is a dark place. Dreams aren’t meant to be seen by everypony the way I see them. They’ll destroy a pony.”

“Who cares if I get destroyed? If I’m not risking my life for my friend’s life, then what good am I?” said Fluttershy, a little hysterical.

Both of them were growing frustrated and emotional. For the last week, this had been a major point of debate. Fluttershy wanted to do more than sit around and watch Luna do all the work. She missed taking care of things, and when it became apparent that Twilight didn’t need to be fed, or groomed, or cared for at all, Fluttershy began getting a little anxious.

“Do you want the honest truth?!” replied Luna, reflecting Fluttershy’s frustration.

“Yeah, that’d be good!”

“There’s a lot you could do in that world. Having a close friend of Twilight and another set of hooves could rapidly speed things up.”

“So, you’re just being arrogant?”

“No, I’m not. Any arrogance I had died a long time ago. Right now, I’m being selfish. I care about you, and I don’t want you to get hurt.”

Fluttershy hadn’t actually looked at the princess since going back into the room. Now that she was, she noticed Luna was almost crying. Her eyes were pained and desperate, and her lips were curled into a doubtful grimace.

“Lu-Luna?” stuttered Fluttershy.

“Yes?” she squeaked.

“A-are you okay?”

“I have no idea...” Her voice was a barely audible combination of high pitched squeals and choking breaths.

“You look really upset...”

“D-Do I?”

“You’ve been working really hard today. Do you want to come lay down?” asked Fluttershy, her own heart swelling in her chest.

“Mhmm...”

Luna slowly walked over and crawled onto the bed with Fluttershy. At first she was distant, sitting along the edge with her head hung, but Fluttershy reached out to her. Luna was trembling ever so slightly again.

“Do you feel better?” asked Fluttershy, placing her hoof on Luna’s.

Luna nodded, scooting herself closer.

Throughout the entire duration of her stay, Fluttershy had noticed a level of physical distance that was always maintained between herself and Luna that went without saying. It was odd, as there were times where they were fully embraced and it felt like the barrier hadn’t been crossed. But then there were times where the bubble sat at a few feet and they were teetering on what was or wasn’t uncomfortable. It felt like everything Luna did was aware and catered to Fluttershy's level of comfort situationally, sometimes to the point where it almost seemed out of her way.

Yet, the unsaid barrier had been crossed, and only moments after it happened Luna scooted back away. She flashed a glance at Fluttershy and pulled her hooves to cross in front of her.

“Sorry,” said Luna simply, her eyes down in front of her. “Yes, I feel better. Thank you.”

“Luna, something’s bothering you,” said Fluttershy.

She grimaced. “I am very old. Many things bother me.”

Fluttershy reached back out, but Luna stayed rigid.

“I may not be able to do anything about it, but I’ll listen.”

Luna looked to Fluttershy with watery eyes. “There are some things that I must never say, but I’ve reconsidered myself. I’ll let you into my dream world.”

Fluttershy nodded. “Okay,” she said, knowing it was best to not ask what caused her sudden change of heart.

“I once said that we’re in this together, and that’s a promise I intend to keep. First, we’ll need to fall asleep,” she said with determination. Luna levitated a pillow and placed it close to Fluttershy’s head. “Would you like for me to cast a sleep spell on you? We mustn’t waste any time at all.”

From dust to dust, time stands still in eternity. When the dust remembers, the insurmountable is set in motion.

And the dust remembers.

Dear Selena,

Sometimes I think about how close we were and find myself smiling. I think about how you were smiling right at me and then just smile more. A friend once told me that a smile is the most powerful medicine in the world, and I think she was right. I was sick, physically sick with grief after what happened.

I didn’t know what to expect when you first asked me to dream with you, but it was a memory I wouldn’t trade the world for.

That dream made me smile again. It was so euphoric that I think I actually remembered what it was like to truly be worry-free. I don’t remember everything that happened, but I remember a little bit. There was this perfect meadow, and we were lying out on it. We went to this cottage and met another pony I can’t remember the face of. After that, we were on a beach. For some reason you wanted to kiss me, and I let you.

When I woke up, you were still sleeping and I was in your arms, cuddling you. It was weird because we didn’t fall asleep like that. It was sort of embarrassing and totally terrifying. I had to sneak out from under you without waking you up.

When you did wake up, you told me that I was a great help and that we should dream together nightly.

I never asked how I helped, but I think it's because I didn't care. As horrible as that sounds, all I wanted was to be with you.

And now that we're apart, I miss you so much.

Sincerely,

Your love

From: Fluttershy

To: Spike

Thirty-five days after the death of Rarity

Dear Spike,

Sorry it took so long to get back to you. I’ve had a really, really weird week and I need someone to talk to. Do you think maybe around three this afternoon, we can meet up at Glace Ocean? They sell really good ice cream. We’ll be able to see Twilight later.

Love,

Fluttershy

From: Spike

To: Fluttershy

Thirty-five days after the death of Rarity

Sure.

Spike

“I’ve thought about it, and I think I’m the lucky one,” said Fluttershy. She stirred her mint chocolate-chip ice cream around in her small cup.

Spike was busy shoveling a spoonful from his extra-large strawberry tub. “I’ll say. I wish I got to leave when you did. I mean, I think I was weird because it didn’t really hit me until about two weeks in. And then I couldn't be in that library anymore...”

“What do you mean?”

“To tell you the truth, I wasn’t really all that sad when Rarity died or Twilight left. Rarity hit me a few days later when I realized I wouldn’t be going over to hang out, and that was bad, but Twilight took some time, and that made it worse.”

"I wonder why that is...”

“It’s because I kept telling myself that she’d be back in a few days. I mean, the princesses were gonna take care of her themselves. I was thinking, ‘how could she not get better,’ you know?”

“Sometimes even the princesses can’t fix everything...” said Fluttershy.

“Yeah, when I read that comas can last years, even decades, that’s when it hit me... It may be awhile before I could talk to my sister again. That... that was rough. I saw her everywhere in that library. She was sitting at the desk writing, sometimes I thought she'd be right around a corner; and then I started hearing her and I knew I had to move out..."

There was silence as they ate their ice cream.

“This is really good...” he said.

Fluttershy could tell he was on the verge of tears. Obviously he was trying his very best to hide it, trying to be tough and all. There were no outward signs that he was falling apart internally, but her intuition told her that seeing Twilight later would be an emotional experience for the baby dragon.

“So, what’s new with you? I heard you were staying with Luna,” he said with a renewing sigh.

She blushed and figured a change of subject was probably for the best. “Yeah... It’s been... nice.”

“Yeah? What’s she like?”

Fluttershy rocked back and forth in her seat, chewing her lips and zoning out.

“You okay?” he asked.

“You know how I said I needed someone to talk to?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, it’s about Luna... and I don’t know how to say it.”

There was immediate worry on his face. “Is everything going okay with her?” he asked in a protective tone.

“Yeah, it’s fine, wonderful actually...”

“Then what is it? What’s going on?”

Fluttershy gulped hard and began to tremble. She knew she wasn’t entirely okay with what she was about to say. Even now it seemed a little silly to her, but she had already gone so far to make a deal of it, that she might as well say it.

“I think I’m in love with Luna...” She squealed after the cathartic words rolled off her tongue. They felt completely unreal. She’d never confessed her love for another before. She hadn't even romantically loved anyone until Luna. It was a big step for her, and she didn’t even know it.

Spike was speechless and a little flabbergasted.

“You—you love Luna? Like, love-love Luna?” he finally said.

Fluttershy was blushing so badly, words escaped her. She could only nod her head.

Spike looked like he’d just been asked his opinion on particle physics. Fluttershy could see the gears turning in his head, and every second longer he waited, the more embarrassed and bashful she became.

“Really?” he said stupidly.

She nodded her head faster. The gears continued to turn as he struggled to formulate something of substance to say. Meanwhile, Fluttershy was about to explode into a complete mess. She’d never told anyone about feelings for another before, and her shyness was starting to take back over. She was starting to regret putting her heart out there, because Spike didn’t seem to be handling it well.

“Don’t you think it’s a bit—soon?” he said.

“Wh-what?” she squeaked.

“I mean, given everything that’s happened... don’t you think that maybe you should—I don’t know—give yourself a chance to recover? Relationships are big things...” Spike seemed to become less confident in what he said as he went on. It was probably really hard to talk to a girl who was cusping on tears.

“I-I don’t know...” she whimpered. “I don’t know what I’m doing anymore... She just makes me really happy...”

“Hey, hey, easy now. I’m not saying it’s a bad thing, but just be careful is all I’m saying. I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“She’d never hurt me...”

He sighed. “That’s not what I’m saying. I’m saying that it’s just been really rough on all of us, and how do you know this isn’t just you turning to romance because of the pain? What if you find out it’s not real, and then you’re left with a broken heart?”

Apparently subtlety was not Spike’s goal.

“I don’t know,” she said sharply, lowering her head and growing rigid. “All I wanted was to come talk to my friend about it... But I didn’t get to.”

Spike put one hand to his forehead and waved his other at her. “No, no, no, I’m sorry. I really am. I didn’t mean to judge. I’m just really messed up, and worried, and I want to see Twilight—” His mouth hung open as he took a deep breath. “And it’ll just be so much better after I see Twilight.”

He seemed sincere. Fluttershy understood his concern, as she pondered the same earlier. It had been too fast, it did seem too early, and Luna didn’t even know yet. All logic told her to wait. Yet her heart didn’t want to wait. And she’d only listened to her heart since the entire ordeal had started, so why stop now?

“Let’s go see her then,” said Fluttershy.

“Okay, but on the way, you gotta tell me about Luna. If she’s gonna date you, then I gotta make sure she’s good enough. Can’t just let any chump date my Fluttershy.”

Fluttershy smiled.

The following walk to the castle was the first time in a long time that she was able to forget, and be happy that she was alive. Spike came to accept her and Luna and they swapped story after story.

From: Applejack

To: Fluttershy

Forty-two days after the death of Rarity

Dear Fluttershy,

I’m sorry. I’m sorry it’s taken so long to write back. I’m sorry for everything that’s happened. I’m sorry about Applebloom and the farm, and I’m sorry I lied to you. Judging by how you’re able to keep your head straight and I’m a darned trainwreck all the time, it goes to show that physical strength don’t mean nothing. You’re a heck of a pony, and I’m privileged to call you a friend.

You made me realize what matters to me, and even though it never really gets better, I’ve been spending a lot of time with the ponies around me. Mainly my sister and her friends. They cry a lot, but being kids, I guess that’s what happens. Sweetie is still convinced Rarity’s alive, and it’s been pretty hard to tell her otherwise. It’s even harder to tell Sweetie that Rarity killed herself because she thought she let her down. I can’t tell when she'll put two and two together, but when she does, that’s gonna be a bad day.

Scootaloo’s gotten it at least. She knows Dash ain’t coming back and is a hot mess most of the time. I’ve sort of adopted them both until further notice. They stay on the farm and earn their keep, and it’s been getting better. I think the work is good for them.

You’re probably still mad, and I get that. I just wanted to let you know that you’ve taught me a lot and that those lessons are helping other ponies. Whenever the kids get all mopey, I tell them to think of how strong and thoughtful Fluttershy is; how even though she still hurts, she always considers the ponies around her first. I know I ain’t lying about that.

Anyway, we’re having a get together for Dash. It’s not a funeral, but just something for closure's sake, you know? We’d love to see you again. Bring Spike too.

Love,

Applejack

From: Spike

To: Fluttershy

Forty-seven days after the death of Rarity

Fluttershy,

I’m starting to think I need to start dating a princess. Whatever you’re doing, you’re doing it right. You just seem so put together, so well-adjusted, it’s mindblowing. I mean we all cried, but the things you say and the way you say them are something else.

Maybe the others didn’t notice, but I noticed that you just said the perfect things at the perfect times. I can’t really explain it, but when Sweetie Belle asked you if Rarity was still alive, and you told her ‘yes’, and put your hoof on her heart, I think we all felt it. It wasn’t the sort of ‘yes’ like she’s off in another city, but that she’s living inside all of us, beside us. I don’t think I’ve cried that hard, ever.

You gotta warn a brother before you say things like that! Can’t look like a baby in front of the ladies.

I got time off from the royal library tomorrow and Sunday. I was thinking we could hang out and maybe spend some time with the Sparkles. Me and Shining still have to settle our game of Dragons and Rebellions.

Also, we have to talk about what we’re going to do with Pinkie. Her family isn’t rich and the hospital is getting too expensive. There’s talk of selling the farm. It’s no secret how close you are with Luna and I think everypony’s looking to you to make miracles.

Love,

Spike

From: Fluttershy

To: Spike

Forty-nine days after the death of Rarity

Dear Spike,

We’re not dating! I just have a dumb little crush on her. Maybe. I don’t know, it’s been weird. Because sometimes she seems really close and warm, and sometimes I might be getting really sad because of Rarity or something, and she doesn’t even come over and talk to me about it. It’s like one second I feel like I could just say how I feel and she’d sweep me off my hooves, and other times I feel like she’d kick me out. I’ve never been more confused in all my life.

I know I should tell her soon. It’s just hard.

I know what you’re talking about with Sweetie Belle. It was such a sweet moment that I’m getting a little teary just thinking about it. I know Rarity, Rainbow, and Twilight were with us that night. Sometimes all you think about is how much you miss them, and you forget the amazing pony they were and how the things they did are still influencing you today. Rarity taught me to be assertive, and I know she’s with me every time I stand up for myself.

I’ll try to remember to tell you to plug your ears the next time I say anything.

I’m not sure if I’m up for some quality time with the Sparkles. Every time I go there, I feel like I can’t tell them what they want to hear. I’m trying my best with Twilight, but I can only do so much. I’ll go, though. We do need to talk about Pinkie. I’d like to see if maybe there are other options before I need to ask Luna. I know she’ll make it happen, but you know how much I hate asking her for things...

Love,

Fluttershy

From: The Royal Equestrian Relief Effort

To: The Pie Rock Farm

Sixty-six days after the death of Rarity

Dear Igneous Rock,

By the request of Princess Luna.

The tragedy in Ponyville has taken a toll on us all. We’ve all lost valued friends, peers, and loved ones, but in our memories they will forever remain. We hope that this small aid will help ease your life while you cope with your loss.

We understand that the mental and physical well-being of your daughter, Pinkamena Diane Pie, has been in jeopardy since the tragedy. By virtue of her character, it is understandable that she would react so acutely after such an incident. We also understand that she is in hospice at Ponyville General and requires persistent, expensive treatment.

Unfortunately, time takes longer to heal some wounds than others. It is my humblest offering to allow you to take as much time as you need.

There are some things that should not be left to bits.

Enclosed in the envelope is a pre-approved application for Class C Royal Healthcare.

Sincerely,

Fancy Pants

Founder of the Royal Equestrian Relief Effort

From: Fluttershy

To: Spike

Eighty-two days after the death of Rarity

Spike,

I’m shaking so bad just thinking about it. I’ve rehearsed exactly what I’ve wanted to say for the last two hours, and I can’t remember a thing. I try to think, and draw blanks. But really, how does somepony tell a princess that they love them?

She’s just so wonderful and perfect, and I’m so completely useless: she’s pretty, she’s smart, she’s got the weirdest sense of humor that just clicks with me. It’s so weird too because I live with her. Please don’t think I’m a freak, but just the other night, I seriously had to restrain myself from wanting to sit by her bed and stroke her mane while she slept.

That felt really weird to write.

I asked her if she’d take me to the gardens tonight, and she agreed. We got Lance to watch Twilight, but oh stars...

I’m so nervous I just want to throw up, and then I think about actually throwing up and I get extra woozy and lightheaded. I’m a disaster waiting to happen! I don’t know if I can do it anymore! And now she just walked in. She’s looking at me... and smiling.

I am going to die.

Fluttershy

From: Princess Luna

To: Spike

Eighty-one days after the death of Rarity

Dear My Most Humble Animal Caretaker,

Yes, I do acknowledge the difficulty of making the bunny, Angel, sit still for any amount of time, let alone in a tuxedo. You will have the most reasonable compensation of knowing that Fluttershy looked very, very happy when she saw her small friend again.

She may have fainted twice in our excursion, but know that it was not of malicious intent. She is... understandably overwhelmed by sudden romantic gestures. However, if it is her desire to continue our mutual romantic venture, then she will need to grow accustomed to them.

Also, enclosed is the voucher for a year’s worth of strawberry ice cream you requested. Once again, thank you for bringing this to my attention and for assisting in making two ponies’ dreams come true.

Sincerely,

Princess Luna

From: Fluttershy

To: Fluttershy

Eighty-eight days since the death of Rarity

Dear Diary,

It’s been so crazy. Ever since that night, my head has been spinning. Every moment is new and exciting. Whenever I think I finally have a moment to sit down and catch my breath, she stands me back up and takes it away again. I’m in love and it’s the most wonderful feeling in the world.

I can't even begin to imagine how lucky I am. Me and a princess. The most beautiful, strong, confident princess in the whole world.

Rarity would be so jealous...

There’s something that’s odd about all this. I don’t cry about Rarity anymore, or Rainbow, or Twilight. And whenever I’m happy, I feel guilty. I’m living a dream without them, my best friends. I miss them, but not enough to cry about it. I remember when I used to cry whenever I wanted to, but now I struggle. I feel broken about not being broken, like I should be sadder than I am, if that makes any sense. Luna tells me that soon I’ll learn how to live without them, but I don’t know. I feel like I’m already living without them, and in my heart I know it’s too soon. There must be something wrong with me. Or maybe I’m stronger than I thought I was.

She tells me I’m perfect, and I know I’m not, but sometimes... just sometimes she says it and I believe her.

Love,

Fluttershy

From: The Office of the Procurement of Magical Entities

To: Princess Luna

One hundred and twenty-two days since the death of Rarity

To address the Princess of the Night, Luna

Subject eighteen, Twilight Sparkle, is to be reevaluated for assignment to the direct stewardship of the Princess of the Day, Celestia.

Notes: It has been four months, dear sister. It is clear to me that you are incapable of awakening my student. She will be collected within the week.

Princess Celestia,

Chair of the Procurement of Magical Entities.

From: Princess Celestia

To: Fluttershy

One hundred and twenty-five days since the death of Rarity

Dear Fluttershy,

I am pleased to inform you that your services as Twilight’s guardian are no longer needed. You will be escorted from the castle to the train station tomorrow evening. You can finally go home and see your mom and dad.

Just like you wanted.

Love,

Celestia

From: Princess Luna

To: Princess Celestia

One hundred and twenty-six days since the death of Rarity

Dearest Sister,

Thou hast boldness without contest if thou thinkest thou canst order our custodies like pawns. Subject Eighteen stayeth in my care, and if thou wantest her so, come and claim her. Fluttershy stayeth with me, and if thou wantest her to leave, come and make her.

Luna

Princess of the Night

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