Doctor's Orders 2: Settling In

>You are Anon.
>And you don't even know whats happening in your life.
>You're currently sitting in your favorite chair, staring at the empty fireplace.
>Moving ponies carry boxes in behind you.
>They're carrying things upstairs for Fluttershy.
>The stalker who is now your roommate.
>You will both live your lives separately.
>But you will share the same house.
>Fluttershy is also going to start seeing Doctor Cloudscape, which you guess was good.
>Maybe he could end her stalking tendencies.
>Luckily, on the train ride here you talked Cloudscape into barring Flutternut from bringing her menagerie with her.
>They would stay at her home, and she would care for them there.
>You would have committed sudoku if you had to live with Angel.
>That bunny is going to Hell.
>Without a doubt.
>You can see Fluttershy out of the corner of your eye.
>She's moving her own food into her half of the cabinets.
>Damn it, Cloudscape! You were supposed to be on our side!
>How did this happen?
>“Um, Anon?”
>Ugggghhh.
“Yes, Fluttershy?”
>“Um, Do you mind if I use your dishes, or should I bring my own?”
>You don't know which idea is less appealing.
“You can use mine as long as you wash them when you're done.”
>“Oh, okay, thank you Anon.” She smiled, flitting back to the kitchen.
You held your head in your hands.
>Peering through your fingers at the clock on the mantle it told you it was almost noon.
>Halfway through the day.
>We can do this.
>You stand up and trudge outside.
>Its overcast, supposed to start raining tonight.
>Wandering the streets of Ponyville nothing really seems to interest you.
>You finally end up at Sugarcube Corner.
>Pinkie always cheers you up.
>“Heya Anon!” she calls from the counter as you come in.
>She finishes with the few customers she has, then bounces over to the table you've claimed.
>“I didn't expect to see you here today! Hows the move going?”
“Seems to be goin' alright.” you mutter.
>You look at her.
>She tilts her head and smiles.
>“Oh Nonny, cheer up! Its not forever!” she giggles.
>”And besides, she can't harass you, she Pinkie Promised!”
“I just wanted to live my life in peace. Why is that so hard?” you sigh in exasperation.
>“You're asking the wrong pony Anon!”
>She puts a hoof under her chin.
>“Hmm, peace huh? You should probably ask...”
>She grins deviously.
>“...oh, I don't know, Fluttershy?”
“You're evil.”
>She falls to the floor laughing.
>Your scowl only deepens.
>“Oh Nonny, you crack me up! You should see your face!”
“Ha ha.” you say humorlessly.
>“Oh come on Anon, cheer up. I know! Lets go prank Rainbow Dash!”
“Hmmm... I like where this is going.” you reply, stroking your chin thoughtfully.
>“Got any ideas?”
“Yeah...I've got one.”

>A few hours later, you and Pinkie have a telescope set up.
>You can see into the Apple Orchard from here.
>Rainbow is napping in a tree.
>The two of you have scattered a dozen apple cores under her.
>AJ has been working her way this direction all day.
“What the hay!? Rainbow Dash!” you hear her bellow.
>Pinkie cedes the telescope to you.
>Rainbow looks so confused.
>Applejack is livid.
>Shes scolding Rainbow.
>Going to make her pay for all those apples.
>An argument follows, as you trade with Pinkie.
>”Heehee! Worked just like you said!”
“Rainbow and AJ are too predictable” you laugh.
>The two of you watch as AJ makes Rainbow haul her cart for her.
>“Anon, when are you going to tell Applejack?”
>You shrug, and walk away.
>Pinkie's smile falters a bit, before she returns to watching her friends in the orchard.

>You are Anon again.
>Pinkie caught up with you after a while.
>You were just brooding on a park bench.
>Contemplating your backlog of orders and new ways to avoid Fluttershy.
>You spend the rest of the day walking around Ponyville with Pinkie.
>It was nice.
>Just enjoying the little things.
>Pinkie's great at that.
>You should learn to be a little more like her.
>But not too much.
>Pink really isn't your color.
>When it starts to rain, you head back to your place.
>Just as you're settling in, there's a pounding at the door.
>"Anon! You open this door right now!" a familiar voice shouts.
>Rainbow Dash.
>You throw your head back with a groan.
>"Oooooh! You're in trouble now!" Pinkie giggles.
"Hey! You helped!"
>But your partner in crime has already disappeared.
>The pounding continues.
>"I know you're in there, Anon!"
"Easy, Dash. I'm coming! No need to break the door!"
>You open the door and are face to face with a very tired and very angry cyan pegasus.
"Evenin' Dash."
>"You bucking suck, Anon."
"Come inside, you look tired."
>"No shit. Somepony framed me for apple-theft! I spent all day working my flank off!"
>She drops to her hooves and trots inside.
"We should talk."
>"Yeah."
>You lead the way into the kitchen and Dash ducks into the bathroom.
>You pour two mugs of cider, and fill the sink with hot water, tossing some towels in to soak.
>A trick Fluttershy taught you, you'd have to remember to thank her for that later.
>You drain the sink then wring out the towels.
>When Rainbow wanders in, you toss a dry towel on the couch.
"You. Lie down. No questions."
>"Anon...?"
"Ah ah ah. No questions."
>She begrudgingly cooperates.
>"Is this some kind of bribe?"
>You don't say anything as you apply the hot rags.
>She starts to melt on your couch.
"Careful, I don't think I can get melted pegasus out of that fabric."
>"Your bribe is accepted."
"No bribe. You needed it though. We still need to talk."
>"Yeah, I guess we do."
"So I guess I got wrapped up in my anger earlier, and left you hanging because of that..."
>She just stares at you.
"...and I'm sorry. I just don't know how things ever got like this between us."
>"Thats not true, Anon." she sighs. "We both know how this happened. You're just avoiding it."
"I guess I'm not much of a liar, huh?"
>"Maybe with somepony who doesn't know you so well, Anon. But you can't pull that over on me."
"So..."
>"Never knew you to hesitate, Anon." she says, sitting up. "Does this really bother you that much?"
>You just give her a look as you peel the now lukewarm rags from her.
>"Okay, okay. Sheesh. But what am I supposed to do about you two?" she asks, glowering at the floor in frustration.
>You don't have an answer, and remain silent as you toss the towels in the sink.
>Returning to the couch, you sit next to Dash, and join her silent contemplation.
>After a moment, you inhale to speak, but she turns and puts a hoof to your lips.
>"Anon, bro, you're the awesomest dude I've ever met, and you're always up for crazy adventures..."
"And I manage to keep you out of the hospital."
>"Shut it, you. I'm not finished. I've known Fluttershy since flight school, and she helped me through some... rough patches --back in Cloudsdale. And now I can't help her without hurting you, but she's done so much for me..."
>She looks at you with big, sad eyes.
>"Why can't you just make this easy?"
"I'm sorry Rainbow, but I just don't like ponies. The species barrier is just too much."
>She opens her mouth to object, but it was your turn to cut her off.
"And don't give me the 'unicorns date pegasi all the time' line. Those are races of ponies, we had different races of humans that intermingled. But different races and different species...that's different. Its just too much, Dash."
>"Anon, what am I going to do!? I just want both of you to be happy, is it that hard?"
"Sometimes it is, Rainbow. Sometimes it is."

>As dawn breaks the next day, you roll over.
>Hours later, you actually wake up.
>Morning routine, breakfast [spoiler]Toast with Peach honey. You can afford it, and you deserve it. Its been a stressful week.[/spoiler], pack your gear.
>Wait, didn't you barricade yourself in your room after Rainbow left?
>Yeah...the wardrobe was in front of your door.
>Well... that's creepy.
>Note to self: Buy lock for bedroom door.
>You get ready to leave.
>Knock on the door.
>Grarrwargle.
>Open the door to find Twilight staring eagerly up at you.
>Facepalm.
>”Good morning Anon! Looks like somep0ny forgot it was Friendship Friday!”
>'Frienship Friday' was her pleasant euphemism for locking you in your house and grilling you for information about Humans.
>Sometimes you could get info from her in exchange.
>Usually only when she stopped to inhale.
>Stepping aside, you let her in.
>You'd rather do this here than in her lab.
>Following her into the living room, you drop your pack by the back door.
>”Is that your work bag, Anon?”
“Yeah, I'm really behind. I was planning to go out and fill an order today.”
>”Aha! I knew you forgot!” she proclaims triumphantly.
>You shrug as you raise your hands into the air.
"Guilty as charged."
>As you settle into your couch, she pulls a quill and notepad out of her saddlebags.
>Oh boy, here we go.
>Today she decides to grill you on the trip to Germany you once mentioned.
>You really need to stop mentioning things to her.
>Too late now.
>You try to answer her as directly as possible, but she always knows how to pull more out of you.
>You never knew happy memories could make you so sad. You really missed those fuckers back home.
>After thoroughly downing your day, Twilight rolls up her parchment.
>”I think that's enough for today. I sure wish it was so easy to see other cultures in Equestria, it must be so fun to travel in your world!”
“It is. Was. It was. I was looking forward to the next trip with my friends, we already had it all planned.”
>”Oh, do you want to talk about it?”
>The quill and parchment are back.
“Not in the least.”
>”Are you sure? Sometimes talking about it helps you to feel better.”
"I miss my home enough now as it is. So no, I really don't want to talk about it any more. Not today."
>"Please Anon, I can help you, just open up-"
"Twilight, there is nothing you can do. I just need some space..."
>"Anon, there has to be something I can do!"
“Honestly Twilight, I was heading out because I really need to get away from everypony. I'm letting my anger get to me, and yesterday I acted like a jerk because of it. Right now, I really just need a Day of Peace.”
>”But Anon-”
>You get up before she finishes.
>”-being alone like that isn't healthy!”
>Grabbing your bag, you make a hasty exit and head for the forest.
>”Anon? Anon! Come back!” the Mauve Magician calls out.
>Nope.jpg

>The cool shade of the trees greet you as you duck into the forest.
>You always appreciated the cool, damp feel of the forest.
>The gentle rustling of the trees in the wind.
>The light aroma of loam and flora on the scant breeze weaving its way between the trees.
>You had built your home as a refuge against nature, but now nature served as refuge against your home, its inhabitants and visitors in particular.
>You make your way through the trees, following a winding animal trace deeper into the forest.
>The glade you needed to visit was too far away to reach in one afternoon, you had been hoping to reach it by leaving in the morning.
>Thanks, Twilight.
>So now you set up camp in a small clearing near a spring-fed lake.
>One of your usual campsites in the forest.
>After a quick dinner, you lie down on the grass and gaze up into the sky.
>As the sun set, Luna's ever-shifting masterpiece came to life.
>“IT IS BEAUTIFUL, IS IT NOT?” she booms.
>You jump a few feet in the air, landing sprawled out on the ground.
”Gah! With the yelling!? Why the yelling!?”
>”Our apologies. We did not mean to cause alarm, however we are quite stealthy.”
“When you aren't yelling, that is.”
>”Indeed, We may have one fault. But no others!” she says, walking over to you.
“Fair enough.” you laugh. “So were you just out for a walk and decided to drop in?”
>”We received a letter from Twilight Sparkle.” she explains, sitting down on the grass next to you. “She was afraid she scared you away again.”
“Nothing so dramatic, I'm afraid. I'm just busy, and trying to avoid Fluttershy.”
>”We see. So you plan to return to your home?”
“Ha. 'My' home."
>She simply looks at you quizzically.
“If it were really 'my' home, I wouldn't have to share it with my stalker.”
>”We understand you are upset, Anon. Would-” she paws the ground nervously. “-would you like to talk to Us about it?”
>That's... kind of adorable.
>Luna looks so awkward, she looks like a big, blue Fluttershy.
>She is clearly not as used to this as her sister.
>You smile.
“Okay, Luna...”
>You recount everything you told Cloudscape and the girls in Appleoosa.
>You talk to her about all the times Fluttershy has broken into your home, stolen your things, or made aggressive advances.
>You swear Luna to secrecy, then recount the 'incident' at Rarity's in horrifying detail.
>It felt good to get it all out in the open.
>You hug Luna tightly.
>Luna is clearly unsure how to proceed, with a teary-eyed human hugging her.
>”We understand, Anonymous. But will running really solve your problems?"
"I'm not running, not this time.” you assure her, letting go of her. ”But sometimes, especially when things are changing, I just need to get away. Clear my mind, get rid of distractions. Wandering these woods helps me to focus.” you nervously look her way “Am I making sense?"
>"Yes, we are familiar with quiet contemplation." she says, stealing a glance at the moon.
"Oh, I'm sorry Luna, I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."
>"Do not worry, Anonymous. We have moved on. It is just odd to me that you would willingly seek a self-imposed exile. It has always been a punishment to be avoided, not a refuge sought out."
"Humans are weird like that, I guess." you shrug. "Its a shame Twilight can't understand that. And she always wants to confront problems head-on. They all do. I wish they'd just let this run its course."
>"It is the only way they know, I'm afraid. With our longevity, We have learned that some problems will solve themselves in time, but the Elements are young and headstrong yet."
"No need to tell me that, Princess."
>"Mmm, I suppose not." she says with a small laugh.
>Theres a brief pause, then a grin crosses your face as you turn to her.
"Well, I can always go on the run again. I'd still have one friend, even if she's a crazy princess who normally visits me in my dreams."
>"You cut us to the quick, Anonymous!" she gasps in feign offense. "But We think you like dreaming of Luna."
"Thats it. You caught me. I'm rejecting Fluttershy because I'm madly in love with you."
>"Twilight will be most displeased."
"Scandalized, I'm sure."
>The jokes go on into the night for some time until Luna takes her leave.
>You lie awake a while longer, watching the night sky.
>Eventually sleep overtakes you.
>Tonight was a good night.

>The next morning is simply swell.
>Seriously, nothing bad happened.
>You pack up, reach the area you were seeking, and find a few decent blooming snapdragons for collection.
>It will be a long haul, but you decide to trek all the way home without stopping.
>And, to your great surprise, nothing impedes you.
>Hell, you make better time than you expected.
>Today has been a great day.
>You reach the edge of the forest as the sun is setting, and peer across the field at your house.
>Looks like no ones home.
>Excellent.
>You cross the field and go inside.
>Dropping your bag, you head into town as a light drizzle commences.
>You hand off the flowers to Filthy Rich (they're his wife's favorite) and get paid.
>Its late and you're hungry, so you head home.
>Once there you head straight into the kitchen and begin working on dinner.
>About halfway through Fluttershy returns.
>“Hi Anon!”
“Hey Flutters.”
>“What are you working on?”
“Just started an old family recipe.”
>“Oooh. Is, um... is it your favorite food?”
>She is, if nothing else, determined.
“Its one of them, but it wasn't the one I was thinking of the other day.”
>“Oh okay.”
“There will be plenty for two if you want.”
>“That would be lovely. Thank you Anon!” she seemed surprised.
>No shit.
>You're surprised.
>I mean, its true.
>You're bad at cooking for one.
>You'd be a total fatass if it weren't for your job.
>But still, sharing with Fluttershy?
“No problem.” you reply absently.
>You stir the sauteeing mushrooms and onions
“You know, Fluttershy, I meant what I said.”
>“What do you mean?”
“I really do miss the old you.”
>“I'm sorry... but I haven't really changed that much, Anon.”
“Thats a damn lie.”
>You can almost hear her wince in the silence.
>Kind of harsh, you admit.
>“I just acted that way because that's how the girls told me to. They were trying to help, but-”
“Yeah, we all know how that ended.” you scowl.
>“I hope we can be friends again, Anon.” she whimpers. ”I know I screwed up, but I promise I'll do better!”
>Be positive. What would Pinkie want you to say?
>Deep breaths.
“Fluttershy, if you cut out the bullshit shenanigans, I don't see why we can't be friends.”
>That's it.
>That's why you offered to share.
>That's why you're putting up with all this.
>Because maybe, just maybe, you could get the old Fluttershy back.
>You really miss the old Fluttershy.
>The onions are starting to caramelize nicely, so you turn to the other half of the work.
“Oh, well thats- wait, um...really!?” Fluttershy gasps in sudden realization.
>She tackles you in a hug.
>The cup of water you had in hand is now on you, her and the floor.
>Well, at least it wasn't the flour.
>Or the eggs.
"Christ, Flutters.” you groan, wiping yourself dry with a dish towel. “And of course we can be friends again. I used to consider you one of my best friends. It'd be nice to go back to that."
>"I...I thought you hated me..." she sniffs., staring up at you awkwardly.
"We were certainly going down that road, yes. But...”
>Her eyes grow wide, unsure of what was about to come.
“...I'm willing to forget all that for a friend."
>She squeezes you tighter.
>You think she might be crying.
"Oof. Careful, Fluttershy. I need those ribs!" you laugh, petting her mane.
>She slowly loosens her grip.
>Eventually it's enough that you lift her off of you and set her on her hooves.
>You stand up and straighten yourself out.
>"You always knew how to get me wet, Anon." Fluttershy giggles.
>Not sure if cute, or gross.
>Gonna just keep rolling.
>Literally, apparently, as you slip on the water.
>You reflexively grab hold of anything nearby, and end up flipping the pan of sizzling vegetables and grease onto your arm.
>Thank God you were wearing long sleeves.
>Still burns like a motherfucker.
“Aaaaah! Hot! Fuck!” you shout, desperately trying to pull your arm out of the sleeve.
>Fluttershy begins panicking
>She frantically tries to help tear the shirt off
>She pulls it up over your head as you pull your arm out of the sleeve.
>You lose balance and flail around before falling to the floor.
>Sticking your head back through the hole, you see that the greasy sleeve has somehow caught fire.
>Must have touched the burner on the stove in your flailing.
>Your shirt is on fire.
>You're still wearing it.
>Oh.
>Fuck.
>Why.
>A thunderclap brings you back to reality.
“SHITSHITSHITSHITSHIT!” You holler.
>Running through the house, you carefully avoid contacting anything flammable.
>Well, as cautious as a man on fire can be.
>You fly out the door, and promptly trip on a fallen tree limb.
>The last thing you see are the rain-soaked cobblestones approaching at warp-speed.
>Sigh.
>And to think today was going so well, too.

>Its quite white above you.
>White lights, white ceiling tiles, and solitude.
>You turn your head and look around the room.
>Yup, back in Ponyville General.
>Fluttershy is crying in Pinkie's arms.
>Twilight is talking with a doctor.
>You try to sit up and your head throbs heavily.
>You let out a groan.
>“He's awake!” Twilight gasps, rushing over.
>“Anon, how do you feel?” she asks.
>“Like I caught fire and extinguished it by headbutting wet pavement.”
>“Heeheehee! Oh Nonny! You're silly!” Pinkie giggles, suddenly at your bedside.
>Fluttershy hovers in the background.
>“Mr. Anon? I'm Doctor Stable.” a brown stallion announces from behind the girls.
>They step aside to let him through.
“How long was I out?” you ask.
>“Just half an hour or so. Your friends brought you in right away.”
“What's the damage?”
>“Well, you've got some burns on your arm and a laceration on your forehead.” he states flatly.
>That much was pretty obvious, but you bite your tongue.
>He glances at his clipboard
>”But nothing you can't make a full recovery from at home. I'm going to give you some painkillers and an ointment for your burns, the cut will heal fine on its own.”
“Well that's good to hear. How long until the burns are healed?”
>“We healed the worst of the damage while you were out. It should take about a week for the pain to fade, however.”
>“Just apply the ointment daily and take your pills and you'll be fine.”
“Thanks doctor.” you said.
>Well, at least it wasn't too bad.
>Magic and Medicine were a fantastic combination.
>The doctor left to get your release paperwork, and Fluttershy floated over to you.
>You could feel Pinkie and Twilight staring intently at you.
>If their eyes were drills they'd be mining your soul right now.
>“Anon I'm, um...”
“Yes?”
>“I'mreallyreallysorryabouttonightpleasedon'thateme!” she squeaked.
“Oh Fluttershy...” you sigh, leaning back and closing your eyes.
>This pony was going to be the death of you.
>At this rate, maybe literally.
>It really wasn't her fault.
>Well, it was a little.
>You fucked this up as much as she did though.
>Well... okay, yeah. You did.
>You crack your eyes and look at Fluttershy, who is staring at you intensely.
"...don't blame yourself. I'm just an idiot." you begin.
>"But the water Anon! If I had just been more careful-"
"I shouldn't have reacted the way i did-" you counter, closing your eyes as you muster your strength.
>"-there wouldn't have been any water to slip on and-" she persists, swooping over you.
"-then the pan would've stayed put and my shirt wouldn't have caught fire and-" you continue, ignoring her protests.
>"Everything would be fine."
"Everything would be fine." you say, pushing yourself upright.
>You open your eyes, and you are nose to nose with Fluttershy.
>The two of you stare at each other in surprise.
>A smile creeps across Flutters face.
>The giddiness radiating from Pinkie and Twilight is almost tangible.
>You point at them with your good arm.
"Not. A. Word."
>Fluttershy takes the opportunity to latch onto your torso.
>"Don't worry Anon, I'm going to take care of you!"
"What? Fluttershy I'm fine! I've been burned before, its nothing!"
>"You need to go easy on that arm, mister!"
"Its just a flesh wound!"
>"Don't you worry, I'll take care of all the housework. You just get your rest!"
>Fluttermaid would be pretty sweet to have.
>Wait, no, you don't need a maid!
>You're a single male, of course you do.
>Let's not look a gift horse in the mouth here, maybe you should take her up on this.
>You still don't know how to feel about her handling your laundry though.
>Hmmmm... decisions, decisions.
>“Don't worry, Anon.” Pinkie chimes in, returning you to the real world.
>“She still has to keep her Pinkie Promise to follow the doctors orders! She has to behave herself.”
>Its like she's psychic.
>She spins her head 180 degrees to look at Flutters.
>Or possesed.
>”Riiiiiight, Fluttershy?”
>“Of course!” she nods. “No funny business Anon.”
“Well, alright I guess. But don't think this changes anything. I'm watching you.”
>Twilight frowns, but Pinkie is satisfied.

>The doctor returns, and Pinkie and Twilight head home, leaving you with Fluttershy.
>”Lets go, Mister. We need to get you to bed!”
“Fluttershy...” you growl, getting up. “I can take care of myself.”
>”I know you think you don't need it, but I can help you if you'd just let me, Anon.”
“Well maybe if somepony hadn't stolen most of my underwear I wouldn't be so paranoid.”
>”Oh. Well, um, is it too late to give them back?”
“Probably.” you say, following her out of the room. “I'm not letting you touch me or my clothes either way.”
>”But Anon, you're hurt! And I'm really very good at treating wounds, please let me help you?”
“Flutters, think back on every time you've gotten your hooves on me. Now tell me how many of those times have been positive experiences for me.”
>She puts her hoof to her chin in thought as you make your way out of the hospital.
>Eventually she drops her hoof.
>Her body sags, and her head droops.
>“I-I'm sorry, Anon”
>Without warning, she dives in and pecks your cheek before flying off.
>Maybe she's getting it.
>You stare off after her, hoping that's the case.
>You sigh and shake your head.
“Its okay, Flutters.” you whisper to no one in particular.

>When you get home you head straight to bed.
>No sign of Fluttershy anywhere.
>Luna visited your dreams again.
>“ANONYMOUS, TWILIGHT HAS-” she stops herself.
>“Twilight has informed our sister of this evenings events. We wish thee a speedy recovery!”
“Well thanks, Luna. I'm glad we can talk about things other than Flutternut. I could get used to it.”
>“We care about all of our subjects, Anonymous.”
“I think Celestia just told you about the belly rub she got that one time.”
>It was super awkward at first.
>But it won over Celestia.
>Humans aren't meant to live on the moon.
>“We would not object.” she smiles.
“Well, is my arm healed in this dream?”
>“It is.”
“Come here then. Just promise to let things happen as they will with Fluttershy.” you say, as she lays beside you. “No more royal favoritism.”
>You commence with rubbing the royal belly, and she closes her eyes.
>“We promise, Anon. Though We cannot speak for our sisters.”
“Good, good... wait, what? Sisters as in plural?”
>”Yes Anonymous, Celestia and Cadence.”
“Cadence is your sister? I though she was from the Crystal Empire?”
>”She is both of those things. Were you not aware of this?”
“No, I wasn't.”
>”It seems a rather large omission, Twilight Sparkle is not usually so forgetful.”
“Actually, most of what I've learned is from the other girls.”
>”But our sister expressly tasked Magic with teaching you about our world and learning about yours!”
“She spends a lot of time learning and not so much teaching. She is a diligent student to the end.”
>”We understand. Being a good student does not make one a good teacher. We will speak with her about this.”
“Eh, I wouldn't worry about it too much.” you shrug.
>“You must visit us in Canterlot someday, Anon. We are most eager to speak with thee face to face.”
“And why is that? Dream belly-rubs not enough for you?”
>“...perhaps. Or perhaps we have other things to discuss.”
“Well, we'll see what my schedule looks like after my arm is healed.”
>“HUZZAH!” She shouts.
>You start to run one hand through her mane as you continue the belly rub.
>Luna exhales contentedly.
>“Your hands are... a wonder, Anon.” she sighs.
>After a while the dream fades.

>You wake up to the smell of coffee.
>Breakfast was sitting on a tray table next to your bed.
>Well, I guess this isn't all bad.
>You were starving, probably because dinner didn't exactly work out last night.
>The food looks, tastes and generally just is, amazing.
>Generally much better for you than your normal on-the-go breakfast, too.
>After scarfing down your food, you head into the bathroom and strip down.
>You take care in the shower not to aggravate your burns, and afterward you eye your cut in the mirror.
>There's a knocking at the door.
>“Anon? I heard you showering...I have the ointment for your arm and your medicine.”
>You quickly throw on some clothes.
“Come in, Fluttershy.”
>She floated in, carrying the little white bag in her hooves.
>She seemed disappointed that you were fully dressed already.
>Never gonna happen.
>She looked at your arm, still an angry shade of red, and then the dark burgundy gash across your forehead.
>“Anon, I know you'll probably say no, but will you let me treat your wounds?”
>“Looking to get your hooves on me?” you cock an eyebrow at her.
>Here we go.
>“No! Please Anon, I'm really not like that.” she started to tear up.
>“I just want you to get better.”
"Sorry Fluttershy. There are limits to your physical contact allowances.” you say, taking the bag. “Really, hugging only at this point."
>Opening the bag, you take out the ointment and begin carefully applying it to your arm.
"See? I can do this myself."
>Stupid bandage won't cooperate.
>Eating your words, as usual.
>Why couldn't it be designed to be put on with one hand?
>You growl in frustration.
>It doesn't help that Stalkershy is hovering a few feet behind you, her eyes silently begging  you to let her help.
>Grabbing the bandages and ointment, you toss them in your work bag and head out.
>Remembering Pinkie's advice, you pause.
>You turn and give her a quick hug on the way out.
“Thanks for caring, Fluttershy. Seeya!”
>She hovers in the doorway, happy yet confused.
>You stride through town and quickly arrive at the abode of the one pony you still fully trust.
>Inside, a few ponies stand at the counter
>They nod to you, and you wave in return.
>When they leave, Pinkie bounces over.
>”Gooooooooood morning Anon!” she sings.
“Hey Pinkie, I was wondering if you could help me?”
>”Anything for a friend, Anon!”
>You pull out the bandages and burn ointment.
>She stares at you blankly for a second.
>Then scrunches up her face as she takes them.
>She goes to work, a small pink and white tornado engulfing your arm.
>And in a moment your arm looks like a 3rd-grade mummy costume.
>Sigh.
>Maybe Pinkie wasn't the best choice.
>”Anon, I know you don't trust her, but Fluttershy-”
>NOPE.
“Thanks Pinkie, I gotta run!” you say, quickly stepping outside.
>Well, you have to go to someone for help.
>Twilight and Rarity are closest.
>Rarity is less likely to lecture you.
>To Carousel Boutique!

>A bell tinkles as you step into the lobby.
>”Welcome to Carousel-Oh! Anon!” she greets, coming in from the back room.
“Good Morning, Rarity.”
>”Oh my, I heard about your arm, but it looks so much worse than I thought!”
“That was actually why I came by...”
>She looks at you quizzically
“I can't put the bandages on with one hand. And I love Pinkie to death, but-”
>”She's not much of a nurse, no.” Rarity finishes.
>”I suppose she already told you who the best pony for this is?”
“Not gonna happen.”
>”Very well.” she titters “Yes, I can help you.”
>She unravels the bandages with her magic.
>Then summons some fresh ones.
>You drop on some of the medicine, and she begins to re-wrap your arm.
>When she's finished, she steps back.
>”There! Much better! Now about that unsightly gash-”
“The doctors said its minor, Rarity.”
>”It might be, but it still needs to be taken care of.”
“Really, its fine-”
>”Nonsense!”
>You feel her magic grasp you, and you're dragged into her bathroom.
>Well, at least she cares, right?
>Scowling, whining and wincing, you survive a vigorous scrubbing.
>You grit your teeth at the sting of antiseptic.
>And finally she applies a long bandage across the wound.
>”That should do the trick!”
“You really didn't need to do all that, Rarity.”
>”But I did! I can't have you looking anything less than your best!”
>You look in the mirror, and shrug.
“I just hope it doesn't leave a permanent mark.”
>You put on your best Rarity voice.
“I'm too beautiful for scars.”
>”Very clever, Anonymous. You simply must fill me in on what happened last night!”
“I could be persuaded.”
>“Hmmm...Let me just tidy up my work room. Oh, and put these projects away, and-”
“Rarity” you interrupt, stifling a laugh. “The story won't change if I have to wait a day or two. Just drop by some time when you're free.”
>”I'm sorry Anon... it's just that I'm so busy right now!”
“Its fine. I'll leave you to your work.” you reassure her, bowing out of the boutique.

>”Anon! Hey Anon!”
>You'd recognize that scratchy voice anywhere.
>You turn around, and Rainbow Dash lands neatly in front of you.
“Hey Dash. What's up?
>”Just checking up on you. Twilight told me about last night.”
“Yeah, well, shit happens. Ya know?”
>”Yup. So... what are you doing today?”
“Well, Fluttershy is still at my house, and I'm not getting back to work for a day or two at least, so not much of anything. Why?”
>”Really? So can you come watch some of my tricks? There's a big derby in two weeks at Canterlot, and I'm gonna need to be perfect if I'm going to impress the Wonderbolts!”
“Well, sure. Let me go grab a lawn chair.”

>The rest of the day passed fairly uneventfully.
>Taking it easy, like you were told. Nurse Redheart would be shocked.
>Dash was fantastic as always.
>You had a few minor critiques, here and there, but nothing major.
>There's always room for improvement, after all.
>Like the ending.
>The “Wavebreaker” was cool.
>Diving to skim the lake just above the surface, Dash parted the waters like Moses in the Red Sea.
>That was some insane force.
>And then that force disappeared as she flew past you, knocking you over.
>Collecting yourself, you look up just in time to see half the lake following in her wake.
“RAINBOW DAAAASH!!!” you shout, shaking your fist as the wave crests just over your head.
>She returns to you, and lands as the last of the water rolls down the slope back into its normal place.
“Warn me, next time, would you?”
>”Sorry dude, I thought you would have noticed...” she giggles.
“Well, I guess I gotta change this bandage again. Come on, I'll need a hand-er, hoof.”
>”I dunno dude, I'm not really good at that kind of stuff. Why don't you just ask-”
“If one more pony suggests I ask Fluttershy, I am moving to Gryphonia.”
>”Alright, alright. Jeeze. Well who helped you before?”
“Good call. Rarity probably knows how to dry my clothes with magic too!”
>”I'll go grab a dry set just in case.”
“Sure, thanks. Jeans are in the-”
>”I'm sure Fluttershy knows where all of it is.” she dismisses with a wave as she flies off.
>Well, she's right.
>Ugh.

>You trudge to Carousel Boutique, only to find it closed.
> A sign informs you that she's at the spa.
>Rainbow meets you at the door.
>”Here's the dry clothes-” she starts. “Oh, I guess Rarity's gone.”
“How observant of you. I guess I'll have to go see Twilight.”
>”Anon, why won't you just let Fluttershy do this?”
“Give me one good reason to let her.”
>”Uh, how about because she's the best pony out of all of your friends at this kind of stuff?”
“Well-”
>”Anon. Dude, just chill out. I'll go with you to make sure she doesn't try anything, okay?”
>You breath deep, and exhale slowly.
“Alright, Dash. I'm not really feeling up for a lecture anyways.”

>Opening your front door, you hear singing in the kitchen.
>You sigh and poke your head into the kitchen.
>“Anon, you're home!” Fluttershy smiles.
>“I made dinner, I thought it would be best that you stay away from the stove for a while.”
“I was perfectly fine cooking for myself until our little mishap.”
>”Oh I know, but you really shouldn't be using your arm.”
“Speaking of that...” you say, rounding the corner.
>”Oh my goodness! Anon, you're soaked!”
“Well, yes. Rainbow here-” you pull the pegasus into view “is to blame for that.”
>”Oh, that explains why you sent her for fresh clothes.”
“Yeah...”
>”So tomboy pegasi aren't your fetish?”
“No.” you deadpan.
>”Thank goodness. I could never be as good at that as Rainbow Dash!”
>”Thats right! No one- hay, wait a minute!”
>You chuckle, but lift a hand to interrupt Dash.
“I just got drenched by one of her stunts. And since Pinkie is terrible at this, Rarity is busy and Twilight  would have lectured me... hey, what about Applejack?”
>”Anon.” Rainbow frowns. “We're already here. Just bucking do it.”
“Tch. Fine.” you turn your attention back to Flutters. “My bandage is soaked...could you-?”
>You swear you can see the fireworks going off in her head.
>With a quick * Squee * she takes off upstairs.
>In a flash she's back, with a big white first aid kit in tow.
>”Now don't you worry, just sit down over here in your favorite chair-”
“How do you...nevermind. The answer is probably stalking.” you grumble as you allow the pegasi to lead you to your chair.
>Fluttershy pulls a towel out of nowhere and begins to dry you off.
“Really, I just need the bandage fixed, Fluttershy.”
>”Now Anon, it won't do any good if you're still all wet. Really, you should change clothes...”
>A few deep breaths, and you allow her to continue, then change in the bathroom.
>You can hear them outside.
>”Thankyouthankyouthankyou! He never would have trusted me without you!”
>”You know I've got your back Fluttershy. Just... don't get too clingy or anything. You can do this. I know you can.”
>”Right. Just a little confidence and... not too clingy. We can do this.”
>”Relax, you do stuff like this all the time, right?”
>”Usually my animals don't h-h-hate me...” she sniffs
>”Ugh, you'll be fine. Just be yourself.”
>”O-okay...I'm gonna go put these clothes in the dryer...”
>You finish changing and step out of the bathroom.
“Where's Fluttershy?” you ask, returning to your seat.
>”Took your clothes to the dryer.” Dash smiles. “Remind me again what's so awful about her, Anon?”
“I never told her where the dryer was.”
>Rainbow crosses her forelegs and scowls.

>When Fluttershy returns, she very carefully removes the old bandage.
>With a touch so gentle it could only be Fluttershy, she pats your arm dry.
>For the first time in a while you're glad to be with Fluttershy.
>Applejack would've told you to 'just bite the apple while I do this, sugarcube.'
>You must be smiling thinking about it, because when Flutters looks up, a massive smile breaks out across her face.
>She gingerly applies the burn ointment to your arm, then scrunches her face in determination as she slowly wraps it in fresh bandages.
>”There we go, Anon. All better.”
>”Ah, how are we doing?” a distinctly male voice speaks from behind you.
“Evenin' Doctor.” you say as Coudscape enters the room.
>“Fluttershy told me about what happened, so I thought I would check in with you, Anon.”
“I see.”
>“I'm happy to see you trusting her to tend to your arm.”
“I don't. But my options were limited.”
>Fluttershy's smile falters a bit.
>”She's perfectly qualified to help you, Anon.”
“No offense, but in case you forgot, we kind of have a history.” you drawl sarcastically.
>“I am aware.” he replies cooly. “Nevertheless, she is only trying to be friendly.”
“She has always tried to be friendly.” you say, rising and heading into the kitchen. “When that didn't work, she tried to be rape-y. That's what I'm afraid of doctor, what comes after the friendly.”
>“Anon, that's not all her fault-” Rainbow interjects. “-Rarity and I may have, well, suggested...mumblemumble.”
>“Um, Anon?” Fluttershy mumbles as she carried a big pot of soup in. “What Rainbow is trying to say is that I'm really not like that.”
“Experience says otherwise.”
>You can see her confidence deflating like a balloon.
>”Now Anon, hear her out. Fluttershy, is what Rainbow says true?”
>”Well, um, yes.” she admits, hiding behind her mane. “I may have gotten some advice from my friends.”
>I'll be she did.
>Only Applejack knew knots like that.
“Somehow I'm not terribly surprised. I suppose Applejack showed you how to tie the knots?”
>“Well, um, yes?”
“I have to hand it to the girls, when they decide to help somepony, they really go all out.”
>”They're the best.” Fluttershy agrees, setting the pot down with a smile.
>Your teeth grind as you refrain from commenting, and Cloudscape nods in silent appreciation.
>Rainbow shrinks a little in her seat.
>”So Fluttershy” he speaks up, ladling himself some soup. “Taking good care of Anon?”
>Goddamnit.
>”Oh yes! Its only the first day, but I just know he'll trust me again by the time he's better!” she says, closing her eyes and smiling widely.
>You have to admit, shes pretty adorable.
>“I had to restock his pantry though, there wasn't a lot for me to work with in there.”
>”Oh? How so?”
“Hey! I'm not home a lot! I need my breakfasts and lunches to travel with me!”
>”Please, Anon, let her finish.”
>”Well, he's telling the truth. Poor Anon's been eating things he can carry with him. But I thought that since he was on bed-rest for a while, I could help him eat a little better.”
“Wait, you aren't putting me on a diet, are you?”
>”Oh no, of course not. You look great just like you are!” she beams.
>...
>”Open your ears, Anon. You're finding offense where there is none.” Cloudscape scolds, taking a bite of bread. “She's just trying to help, and you cannot possibly deny that her cooking is delicious.”
>Well, shit. You can't.
>This soup is fantastic.
>Fluttershy is talking again.
>”-talk to Rarity though, I don't think she knows how bland Anon's wardrobe is-”
“Whoa whoa whoa. I never said I was okay with you throwing out my stuff.”
>”Don't be silly, Anon! I would never do that to you! I understand that they're your things. I'm just maybe going to go talk to my dearest friend and let  her know how dull and plain all of your clothes are.”
>She bats her eyes innocently.
“I don't need new clothes. End of discussion.”
>”Then I suppose you won't mind Rarity coming over and having a look?”
>”Fluttershy, don't you remember our talk in the hospital?” Cloudscape interjects. “Perhaps Anon prefers... more muted color choices?”
>“Well why don't we talk to her about getting you some clothes you'll wear? It's going to be getting colder Anon, and you only have that one sweatshirt!”
“But I love that hoodie!”
>”Dude, no one's heard of that school anyways.” Rainbow counters.
“That changes nothing!”
>”You'll wear it out if you keep wearing it all the time.” Cloudscape offers in between mouthfuls of soup.
“Who's side are you on, here?” you ask incredulously.
>”Anon, I said I would take care of you, and I'm going to do it, mister.” Fluttershy says before Cloudscape can answer you.
>”Now Fluttershy,” Cloudscape interrupts “take a few deep breaths. Anon's concerns are reasonable.  Maybe there's a method to his madness.”
>You relax a bit.
>And make a mental note to hide that hoodie somewhere safe.
>”Have you ever talked to him about it?”
>”Well, um...no.” she answers, rather put out.
>”I see. Well, before tomorrow I would like you to do so.” he says.
>*mumble*mumble*
>”Oh Anon, your first appointment is tomorrow. I hope you got the princesses' letter?”
>You hadn't.
“I haven't. But I'm sure there's a good reason. What time?”
>”Ten o'clock.”
“Not a problem.”
>Everyone settles down to eating.
>Rainbow looks really uncomfortable.
>Her eyes flick from you to Fluttershy and back constantly.
>Every so often you see Fluttershy draw a breath as if to speak.
>Her courage fails every time.
>50% Cute
>50% Frustrating
>Chances are its just about your clothes anyways.
>At least the soup is good.