[DE - 11] AiE : Atlantis Rising

Continued from
Reconciliation
----------------------

>The waiting room smelled strongly of disinfectant.
>There was a stack of what were likely very out of date magazines on a table.
>Aside from a couple of other ponies, you were alone.
>It'd been roughly an entire day since Rainbow and Vinyl were admitted.
>You hadn't slept, much to nurse Redhearts dismay.
>Even if you wanted to, you couldn't convince yourself to sleep.
>You were mentally exhausted from trying to comprehend what'd happened.
>You and Rainbow had been focusing on your respective duties.
>The lighting equipment for Rainbow; and the audio equipment for you.
>Everything was going swimmingly, until a rather disruptive group of ponies made their way onto the stage.
>By then, the show had stopped, and the floodlights were activated.
>From what you could tell, the ponies were drunk.
>Security was making their way towards the offenders, but there was a fuck huge crowd they had to go through.
>One of the ponies had a bottle, and had used it to smash a piece of Vinyl's equipment.
>After he did that, he turned to Vinyl herself.
>One daring jab later, he was fumbling around behind Vinyl.
>The sequence of events that followed was what bothered you the most.
>There was a flash of light, and Vinyl's mane and tail looked as though they'd caught fire.
>You could see a record being used to strike the Ponies that had made their way onto the stage.
>It was a blur of colors and some rather unsettling noises.
>The small group of offending ponies had been subdued by Vinyl, but she wasn't stopping there.
>She continued to attack the one with the bottle, until another pony ran into her at a blazing speed.
>
>
>It was Rainbow.

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

>While you'd been in shock from witnessing Vinyl's assault, Rainbow had darted down to the stage.
>After the tackle, she had Vinyl's full attention.
>Blind rage and all.
>What happened then was something you wouldn't soon forget.
>Vinyl struck at Rainbow multiple times, Rainbow dodging each attempt.
>Rainbow was trying to talk to Vinyl, from what you could tell.
>Vinyl didn't appear to be in a talking mood.
>When Rainbow stopped moving to try and talk to Vinyl, she was met with a solid strike to the face by the spinning record.
>Rainbow shook her head, and resumed dodging the assault.
>With Vinyl showing no signs of ending her assault anytime soon, Rainbow tackled her to the ground in an attempt to hold her down.
>
>That ended badly.
>
>Vinyl used the opportunity to give Rainbow quite a few injuries on her back.
>Rainbow screamed in pain, and jumped off of Vinyl.
>Not but a moment later, she was backing away from Vinyl.
>She tried one last time to reason with her, before being met by yet another solid strike in the face.
>After that, Rainbow ran towards Vinyl once more.
>Instead of tackling her, she stopped short, turned around, and kicked Vinyl in the head.
>Hard.
>Vinyl was dazed by what'd happened, but shook it off.
>Rainbow kicked her again, and she started to waiver her assault.
>One more kick to the head, and Vinyl was down.
>Rainbow wasn't doing too well either, and collapsed onto the stage.
>
>The entire auditorium was silent, save for security coming to their senses and moving towards the stage.

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

>While they made their way towards the stage, you started your own rush towards Rainbow and Vinyl.
>Being a whole floor above them didn't make things any easier.
>When you finally arrived and pushed some guards out of the way, you found a horrifying scene.
>Vinyl was bruised heavily, her nose and upper lip bleeding.
>Rainbow, however, was much worse for wear.
>She had quite a few lesions on her back and face, most of which were bleeding openly.
>A closer observation yielded bruises on her face and sides.
>And something else.
>Tears.
>She had been crying.
>Profusely.
>
>The only thing you recalled clearly was carrying Rainbow to the hospital.
>Some guards were carrying Vinyl.
>Aside from that, everything else was a blur.
>
>
>
>The doctors had told you that they'd both make a full recovery, but Rainbow's would take longer than Vinyl's.
>Knowing that they'd recover alleviated much of your stress, but not all of it.
>From what the doctors had told you, Vinyl's recovery would last about a day.
>Rainbow's, about a week.
>
>But it would be a month before she could fly again.
>Apparently, one of the cuts she'd gotten had really torn up a tendon or some shit.
>You didn't really care to know the details.
>That would crush Rainbow.
>A pegasus, not being able to fly?
>
>And there wasn't anything you could do.
>Her awakening was a double edged sword.
>You'd be glad to hear her voice again; but telling her she was downed wasn't going to be easy...
>
>
>Your thoughts were interrupted by nurse Redheart.
>She'd just informed you that Vinyl had woken up.

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

"Is Rainbow awake yet?"
>"No, I'm afraid she's still sleeping."
"I'll wait until they're both awake then."
>"...Ms. Scratch asked to see you."
>Damn.
>You were really hoping to wait until they were both up before having to face either of them.
>This...  wasn't going to be easy.
>
>
>You sighed.
"Alright.  Lead the way."
>An all too short while later, you were walking into their room.
>Nurse Redheart led you over to Vinyl's bed, and then started tending to Rainbow.
>"Nonny?"
"Hi Vinyl."
>She stared into your eyes for a while.
>"What...  What did I do?"
"...You attacked some drunk ponies that made their way onto the sta--"
>"No.  What did I do to -her-?"
>Shit.
>You remained quiet.
>"Nonny, I have to know."
>Her eyes were watering.
"You... She..."
>Dammit.
"Doctor says she'll be outta here in a week."
>She was searching your expression.
>"...What else did the doctor say?"
>God.
>Fucking.
>Dammit.
>"Nonny?  Will she be ok?  WHAT DID I DO?!"
"She won't be able to fly for at least a month..."
>Her jaw dropped.
>She slowly turned to look at Rainbow.
>"I... She..."
>You just nodded.
>"I-I'm so s-sor--"
>She was sobbing openly now.
"Don't."
>She looked back at you.
>You could see the hurt in her eyes.
"I like you, Vinyl.  I really do."
>She lightened up on her sobs a little.
"But you hurt Rainbow.  I can't just forget that happened."
>"But, the drunk ponies!  They were--"
"You should've backed off and let security handle them!  Dammit Vinyl, you knew what to do, why didn't you fucking do it?!"
>You could see that she was hurt by what you were saying, but you didn't care anymore.
>It was your turn to be mad.

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

"Why?  Why didn't you just let security handle it?  Were you trying to prove something?!  What?!"
>"I-- I don't--"
"What, you don't know?!  Of course not!  No, you jumped the gun and took matters into your own hands!"
>"Wh--"
"You bit off more than you could handle, and it finally affected someone other than yourself, Vinyl.  Rainbow is here, because she was trying to stop you."
>Her eyes widened.
"That's right.  You were destroying a drunk pony, and Rainbow was trying to stop you from really hurting the guy.  So, instead of hurting him, you hurt her instead!"
>She was trying to speak, but you didn't let her.
"Why Vinyl?!  Why would you do that?!"
>"I- I didn't know wha--"
"What, you didn't know what you were doing?  Maybe not, but you damn well knew that that could've happened before hand!  You should've thought about your actions!  You had plenty of time to just back away!"
>She was silent, tears running down her cheeks.
>Maybe she really didn't know what she was doing.
>Maybe she got into the heat of the moment and just didn't think clearly.
>Can you say you wouldn't have defended yourself?
>No, but you can be damned sure you would never do what she did to Rainbow.
>You sighed before bringing continuing your little rant.
"Listen, Vinyl.  I really do like you.  I still want this relationship to work, but you've got to get help.  If you get like that every time you get mad, who's to say you won't hurt another pony like you did Rainbow?"

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

>Your words were a solid reminder of what she did to Rainbow.
>She looked down at herself.
>You left her to go and check on Redheart and Rainbow.
"How is she?"
>"She's still unconscious, but she'll be fine."
"Good.  Listen, I'd like you to put her in another room."
>"But--"
"Please."
>Nurse Redheart sighed.
>"Alright.  I'll have some orderlies move her in a minute."
"Thank you."
>As you left the room, you could faintly hear Vinyl starting to cry.
>Maybe you were too harsh on her.
>You didn't really let her defend herself.
>But that didn't change the fact that she needed help.
>You can't even consider a serious relationship with her if there's the possibility that she could hurt Rainbow like that again.
>As you found your seat in the waiting room once more, you rested your head in your hands.
>You were just about to try taking a nap, when Redheart came trotting up to you.
>"Anon?  We've moved Rainbow into another room.  If you'd like, you can sta--"
"Yes."
>She nodded, and led you down another wing of the hospital.
>Eventually, you were greeted with a new room, occupied solely by Rainbow.
>"I'll leave you two alone.  If you need anything, just press that button."
>She motioned towards a small red button beside Rainbow's bed, and headed back out of the room.
>
>Rainbow was sleeping peacefully.
>Her chest rising and falling ever so gently.
>You shut the door to the room, and moved over to the chair that was beside her bed.
>Maybe now you could get some shut-eye.
>You were soooooo close to falling asleep.
>"...Nonny?"

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

>You snapped to full attention, looking to Rainbow.
"Rainbow?"
>"Nonny!"
>You ran over and hugged her.
>After she gasped in pain, you instantly released her.
>"Wha...?"
>She pushed the covers off herself, and looked down at her body.
>"...No."
>She was covered in bandages, from her front legs to her hind legs.
>Her wings had been carefully wrapped so that she couldn't move them.
>"Nonny..."
>She looked up at you.
>"What happened?"
>This wasn't going to be easy.
"...What's the last thing you remember?"
>"I...  I knocked out Vinyl... I knocked out Vinyl!  Is she ok?  I didn't hurt her too-"
"She'll be fine."
>Now, the hard part.
>You leaned in and hugged her, carefully this time.
>She half-heartedly returned the hug.
>"Nonny, what's wrong?"
>You broke the embrace, and sat down next to her bed.
>She tried to move for a second, before flinching and remaining in her spot.
>"Nonny... Why can't I move my wings?"
>She was looking at you hard now.
>You tried to talk, but you couldn't bring yourself to tell her what the doctors had told you.
>"...No."
>She was fighting back tears now.
"The doctors say it'll be at least a month before you can fly again..."
>"...No!  No no no!"
>She was starting to thrash in her bed.
>You were immediately holding her down, preventing her from really worsening her injuries.
>After a good minute or so of her struggling against you, she finally broke down and started crying.
>She cried for a while.
>You pulled her into a hug as best you could, taking care not to hurt her.
>About ten minutes later, she had calmed down.
>"...I'm scared, Nonny."
"Don't worry Dashie.  We'll get through this.  Together."

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

>The next morning, you were woken up by nurse Redheart.
>"Anon?"
"Whazzat?"
>"Sorry to wake you, but we need to change Rainbow's dressing.  I'm going to have to ask you to step outside for a couple of minutes."
"Oh.  Okay."
>You walked out of the room, leaving Rainbow to nurse Redheart.
>You heard muffled voices through the door.
>"Where... what are you... WHERE IS ANON?!"
>Oh boy.
>The volumes of their voices were escalating.
>"Rainbow, just calm do-- No no no no!"
>There was a crash, and then you heard Rainbow scream.
>You didn't bother to knock as you nearly broke down the door.
"Rainbow?!"
>You walked into the room, shutting the door behind you.
>A quick survey of the hospital bed yielded no Rainbow.
>You walked over to where the sheets had been pulled to one side, and found Rainbow crying on the floor.
>Redheart was trying to approach her, but she was curled into a defensive ball.
>Every time Redheart would get close, Rainbow would kick her away.
"Rainbow, are you okay?"
>"Nonny!"
>She tried to get up, but yelped in pain before collapsing into a ball again.
>That was when you noticed her wing.
>Her left wing was at a rather odd angle.
"Nurse Redheart, what happened?"  You asked, as you walked over to Rainbow's position on the floor.
>"Well, I was trying to change her dressings, when she started having a panic attack and rolled out of her bed."
>Great.
"What's wrong with her wing?"
>"I think she may have dislocated it, but she won't let me close enough to find out."
>You sat down next to Rainbow, and began gently stroking her mane.

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

"You okay Dashie?"
>She looked up at you and shook her head 'no.'
"Will you let nurse Redheart take a look at your wing?"
>She looked from you to nurse Redheart, and back to you.
"I promise I'll be right here the entire time, okay?"
>She looked deeply into your eyes, before slowly nodding 'yes.'
>You motioned for nurse Redheart to approach, and she did so.
>Cautiously.
>Once Redheart was close enough to actually examine Rainbow, she began using her magic to lift and tug at various parts of her wing.
>All the while Rainbow would cringe and tear up.
>You reached over and clasped one of her front hooves in your hands.
>There were tears running down her cheeks, tinting her cyan coat.
>Nurse Redheart spoke up.
>"Yes, her wing is definitely dislocated."
>Great.
"So, what can you do?"
>"Well there's only one thing to do.  It has to be relocated."
>If that was anything like relocating a shoulder, it was probably going to hurt like hell.
>"Rainbow?  Will you let me relocate your wing?"
>She shook her head 'no' vigorously, before backing up towards you.
>"If she refuses treatment, there's not much I can do."
>You thought long and hard about what you were about to suggest.
"Rainbow, I'm going to relocate your wing."
>She turned around quickly, fear in her eyes.
"It's going to hurt, but I promise it's for the best.  You'll feel much better afterwards.  Okay?"
>She made no motion to answer.
"Rainbow, do you trust me?"
>She nodded 'yes' slowly, but the fear never left her eyes.

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

>This was going to suck.
"Nurse Redheart, what do I need to do?"
>"Well, it's a simple procedure.  All you have to do is push the joint back into place.  You'll feel resistance at first, then it should simply pop in."
>You nodded, and positioned yourself behind Rainbow.
>Gently grabbing her wing at the base, you could feel the muscles spasm in anticipation of what was about to happen.
>The joint wasn't far from where it was supposed to be.
>A gentle push and the wing's joint found its resting place just out of the socket.
"I'm sorry Rainbow."
>You tightened your grip, and began to apply pressure.
>Rainbow screamed.
>She screamed as loud as she could, but you did not yield.
>You felt the resistance Redheart mentioned, but it wasn't yielding.
>Considering your options, you briefly lightened your grip, before re-tightening it and shoving.
>Hard.
>Rainbow's screams continued, all the while you applying a huge force to the wing.
>A couple of seconds later, you felt the pop.
>Rainbow stopped screaming, and lay in shock.
>Tears were running down her face profusely, her mouth agape.
>She started to gasp, and began sobbing.
"Ssshhhh, it's okay now.  It's all done."
>You carefully picked her up, and brought her into a hug.
>She gripped you fiercely, and continued sobbing.
>You took to stroking her mane gently, and held the embrace for a while.
>Once she calmed down and finished sobbing, you placed her back in her bed to let nurse Redheart continue changing her dressings.
>Both you and nurse Redheart decided it would be best for you to remain in the room.
>
>Rainbow didn't object.

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

>After Redheart changed Rainbow's dressings, she left the two of you alone.
>Rainbow had finished crying a while ago, but you could still see the dried streaks on her face.
>You were sitting down in the chair next to her bed, head resting on your hands.
>She was looking at you with her big magenta eyes.
"You going to be okay now, Dashie?  You scared me for a while there."
>"...Y-yeah... Sorry about that..."
"What got you so riled up anyway?"
>Her gaze quickly disengaged yours.
>"I... I don't know..."
"Rainbow..."
>You stood up and walked over to her bedside.
"You can trust me."
>She squirmed under your gaze, before sighing and looking up at you.
>"I... I was having a dream..."
"Okay... What was the dream about?"
>"I... It... You died Nonny..."
>How the fuck do you respond to that?
>She was looking into your eyes, as if searching for something.
>You reached out and started petting her on the head.
"Well I can assure you I'm very much alive.  And I intend to stay that way."
>She smiled a little at that.
>You leaned in and kissed her on the head, before leaning over and whispering in her ear.
"Besides, you can't get rid of me that easy."
>She gave you a soft punch for that one, before kissing you on the cheek.
>You went to the little bathroom area, and found a rag.
>After dampening it in the sink, you proceeded to use it to clean Rainbow's face up a bit.
>"Hey, Nonny?"
>You finished cleaning her face before responding.
"Yes, Dashie?"
>"Where's Vinyl?"

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

>You sighed.
"Why do you ask?"
>"I want to know why she did what she did."
"I do too, Rainbow.  For the time being though, I think its best we just give her some time to figure things out."
>"I guess..."
"How do you feel about what happened?"
>"I... I don't know... I mean why would she--"
>She gasped and cut herself off.
>Her voice was rather raspy from earlier.
"We'll talk about it later, Dashie.  You need your rest,” You said as you stood up.
>She watched you go to the door.
>You had your hand on the handle when you heard her almost whisper something.
>"Don't go, Nonny..."
>You turned to face her.
"Go?  Dashie, I'm going to go get sheets for the other bed.  You really think I'd leave you after what happened today?"
>If the smile on her face had gotten any bigger, you'd be concerned.
>"Okay.  I'll--"
>She gasped again.
"I'll be right back, Rainbow."
>She nodded.
>You made your way out into the hallway, and headed for the waiting room to find Redheart.
>While you could get the sheets yourself, that might be considered rude.
>A brief walk later, and you'd found Redheart.
>After getting the go-ahead from her, you collected some sheets for the other bed, and headed back to Rainbow's room.
>The bed was a bit small for you, but you could make it work.
>Well, you'd be curled up in a ball.
>Still better than sleeping in the chair.

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

>When you approached Rainbow's room, something caught your eye.
>The door was ever so slightly ajar.
>There were noises coming from the room, escalating in volume.
>When you managed your way inside, you discovered the noises to be voices.
>The voices were both familiar.
>Rainbow and Vinyl.
>"I SAID LEAVE ME ALONE!"
>"I just--"
>"NO!  Do you have any idea what it's like to be told you can't fly?  DO YOU?!"
>Time for an intervention.
"VINYL."
>That got their attention.
"I suggest you leave."
>"But I--"
"Now."
>She was on the verge of tears.
"You want to explain?  Fine.  But NOT right now.  We need our space, Vinyl.  Now get out."
>She ran out of the room crying.
>You felt bad for making her cry yet again, but you and Rainbow really did need space.
>Time to think.
>And you wouldn't get that with Vinyl here, trying to explain away what had happened.
>She'd get her chance, but it'd be on your terms.
>After closing the door, you checked on Rainbow.
"You okay Dashie?"
>"Yeah, I'm fine.  I just cou--"
>She gasped again.
"I understand.  Just rest for now, okay?  The bandages are probably putting pressure on some sensitive areas when you get excited like that."
>She nodded, and settled back into her bed.
>A short time later, you'd made your own bed.
>Nurse Redheart stopped by with something to eat, but you weren't exactly hungry.
>Rainbow was apparently starving though, as she had created what could only be described as a war scene with her tray.
>Can't say you blame her though.
>She's had a pretty stressful couple of days so far.

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

>A couple minutes later, and she'd finished her dinner.
>Save for the bits of mashed potato on her face.
>She looked at you and sighed before leaning back into her collection of pillows.
>You chuckled to yourself and walked over to clean her up.
>As cute as she was, you couldn't help but laugh while she had that eloquent potato mustache.
>After cleaning her up and collecting her now empty tray, you sat back down in your chair to poke around at your own food.
>The lack of meat saddened you slightly, but it was nothing serious.
>While you poked away at your food, Rainbow slowly dozed off to sleep.
>So many things running through your mind...
>And this was only the second day at the hospital.
>After finishing your meal, you placed the two dirty trays on the nightstand separating the two beds.
>Might as well get some sleep.
>You'd need to get a few things from the auditorium tomorrow.
>Like your clothing.
>And maybe some bacon.
>If you could manage it.
>The auditorium...
>That was something you weren't exactly looking forward to...
>There'll be time to worry about that tomorrow.
>For now, time to rest.
>It wouldn't be the most comfortable nap you'd ever had, but it would finally be an actual nap.
>You settled into your bed and turned the lamp off.
>It was a tight squeeze, but you managed.
>At least now you could appreciate the three beds you were given when you first arrived here.
>Strange that you and Rainbow would be back at this hospital so soon...
>Wonder if Redheart is going to present Vinyl to Rainbow like she did Rainbow to you?
>Again, worries for later.
>Sleep now.

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

>Rainbow was still sleeping peacefully when you woke up.
>All things considered, that was probably the first time you'd gotten decent sleep in the past couple days.
>Today wasn't going to be so easy on you.
>You had to get some changes of clothes from the auditorium.
>Vinyl would probably try and explain herself to you or try to apologize again.
>You can only hope she respects your wishes and keeps her distance for a while.
>She's still your friend, but you need your space and some time to think.
>Given what she did to Rainbow, you'd probably need quite a bit of time.
>You might be able to eventually forgive Vinyl for what she did, but would Rainbow?
>That would likely depend heavily on whether or not she fully recovered.
>Having wings and not being able to fly...
>This coming month of recovery would probably be hell for her.
>But she wouldn't go through it alone.
>
>
>After you made sure she was awake and still amongst the living, you told her your plans for the day.
>"So, you'll be getting some of your clothes from the auditorium; then heading back here?"
"Pretty much.  When I get back, we're going to talk about yesterday though."
>"What about yesterday?"
"Don't play that game with me Rainbow.  Your little incident yesterday."
>She looked down.
>"Oh... Right..."
>You kissed her on the head.
"I'm not mad at you Dashie, I'm just worried.  I'll be back soon, okay?"
>She looked up at you, a small smile on her face.
>"Okay."
>With that, you headed out of her room and made for the hospital lobby.
>After making sure Redheart knew to go easy on Rainbow, you headed for Vinyl's auditorium.

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

>After leaving the hospital, you headed straight for the auditorium.
>No sense messing around.
>Besides, you were worried about Rainbow.
>Vinyl attacking her must've really messed her up.
>Can you blame her if she's bothered by what happened?
>How would you cope with one of your best friends assaulting you, and then having to knock them out?
>
>
>
>You continued your solitary walk towards the auditorium.
>Apparently there was a rather large storm scheduled soon, so there weren't many ponies out today.
>The task at hand mixed with the low rumbles of distant thunder distracted you from hearing your name being called.
>"Hellooooo, Anon?  You okay?"
>Finally registering the voice, you stopped walking to locate its source.
>Twilight was off to the side of the path you were walking, waving you down.
"Oh!  Hey Twilight.  Sorry, I was just... thinking..."
>She trotted over to chat with you for a bit.
>"It's been a while since I've seen you.  What have you been up to?"
"It's... A long story.  If you don't mind my asking, why are you out?  Isn't it about to storm?"
>"I could ask you the same question.  I'm out here to set up some instruments to record some weather data."
>She a few of said instruments from her saddle bags using her magic.
"Oh.  Neat."
>As she returned the various instruments to their saddle bags, she repeated her question to you.
>"So, what brings you out here on a day like this?"
"I'm just getting a few things from the auditorium is all.  Gonna be bunking with Rainbow for about a week."
>"Wait, I thought you two lived at the auditorium?  At least, that's what Rainbow told me last time I saw her..."

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

>"Come to think of it, how is Rainbow?  I haven't heard from her in what seems like months!"
"We were staying at the auditorium, but something... came up.  Rainbow is in the hospital."
>The resulting barrage of questions almost started to hurt your ears.
>"WHAT?!  What happened?  How long is she staying there?  Why didn't anypony tell me sooner?!  Is she going to be okay?  Wh--"
"TWILIGHT!  Please, slow down."
>"Right... sorry.  I just didn't know!  She's been so... isolated lately..."
>That was probably your fault more than you cared to admit.
"She could use all the friends she has right now... It's... kind of serious.  I'd be happy to give you all the details, but I promised her I'd be back soon."
>"Of course!  Maybe I can help you with whatever it is you're getting at the auditorium?"
"I'd appreciate that, Twilight."
>As the two of you walked towards the auditorium, you explained to Twilight what had happened not so long ago.
>You decided to withhold specifically who attacked her.
>Last thing you needed was a unicorn fight.
>Upon finally entering the auditorium, you couldn't help but feel...
>Anxious.
>Just get your shit and get out.
>No need for any drama.
>You led Twilight up to your room and started collecting a sizeable amount of clothing.
>No sign of Vinyl thus far.
>You hoped she wasn't trying to bother Rainbow at the hospital again...
>After a brief visit to the closet, the clothing you were after was packed and ready for transport.
>You and Twilight headed for the door.
>"Hey Anon, what's this?"

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

>You stopped just shy of the door, and turned to find Twilight examining a note on the bedroom door.
>In your haste, you must've failed to notice it.
"I... I have no idea, Twilight.  I can't read pony, remember?"
>"Oh, right... Sorry.  You want me to read it for you?"
"Sure."
>She cleared her throat, and squinted at the note on the door.
>"Dear Anon, I figure you'll be here to get your things soon, and I know you want your space so I'll try and stay out of your way.  Just letting you know that your house is finished, and the address is below."
>"Your friend, no matter what, Vinyl Scratch."
>"She seems like a really good friend, Anon."
"You don't even know the half of it."
>She plucked the note from the door, and brought it to you using her magic.
>You folded it up and placed it in your pocket.
"Alright, let's get out of here before that storm hits."
>"Sounds like a plan."
>At least Vinyl was respecting your wishes.
>For now, anyways.
>On a brighter note, now you had a place to stay after Rainbow was allowed to leave the hospital.
>Silver lining and all that.
>
>
>Back outside, the thunder was louder and you could spot lightning arcing across the sky.
>"I sure hope the weather team know what they're doing; this storm looks like a doozey."
"No kidding."
>Wouldn't that be some shit?
>Your house finally gets completed only to get destroyed by some out of control storm?
>That would be some real shit right there.
>Time to focus on more important things.
>Like Rainbow.
>As you and Twilight made way to the hospital, you began brainstorming ideas to get Rainbow's spirits back up.

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

"Hey Twilight?"
>"Yes Anon?"
"Any ideas on how I could cheer Rainbow up?"
>"Hmmm... Well, she's a fan of Daring Do."
"Who's Daring Do?"
>A good portion of the walk was spent with Twilight explaining Daring Do to you.
>Some sort of adventure book series or something like that.
>Rainbow had apparently read the entire series twice so far, and had been working on a third time.
>Maybe you could improv a little story for her...
>She might appreciate that.
>"If you don't mind my asking, why are you so concerned with cheering Rainbow up?  I've known her a while, and she's not one to let a little accident set her back."
>"This accident might be a bit more sever, but still."
"She's been acting... off ever since she woke up in the hospital."
>"What do you mean by 'off?'"
>You told her about her little incident from yesterday.
>Twilight thought for a bit while the two of you walked.
>"You know Anon, now that I think about it... It makes sense."
"Care to elaborate?"
>"Well, the last time she was in the hospital was when you died, right?"
"I suppose so."
>"She's probably not too fond of those memories..."
>Combine that with being told she can't fly for a least a month, and you could start to see why she was acting the way she was.
>Even still...
>You'll just have to talk to Rainbow and get her to open up about it later.
>"Oh my gosh!  I have to tell the others about Rainbow!  They probably have no idea either!"
>With that, she darted away.
>Maybe that would cheer Rainbow up a little.
>A visit from her good friends?
>So long as they went easy on her, what's the worst that could happen?

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

>Once you'd made it back to the hospital, you saw a pink mare in the lobby arguing with nurse Redheart.
>"But nurse Redheart, she's one of my very best friends!  You've gotta let me see her, ya just gotta!"
>"I'm sorry Pinkie Pie, but I can't."
>You approached the two mares.
>"But--"
"Pinkie Pie?"
>The Pink ball of energy whipped around to face you.
>"Nonny!"
"Hey Pinkie.  What's going on?"
>"I'm trying to go see Rainbow Dash, but Nurse Redheart says I can't so I--"
>"You still can't go see her, Pinkie.  I'm sorry.  The only reason I let Anon stay with her is--"
>You cut off Redheart.
>What had happened in that room was between you, Dash, and her.  No reason to tell Pinkie.
"She was very insistent that I stay with her, and give the nursing staff a break by looking after her for a good portion of the day."
>Redheart got the hint and went along with your story.
>"Exactly.  I'm sorry Pinkie, but I can't let you see her.  I'll let you know as soon as she can have visitors, okay?"
>"But--"
"Pinkie, can I talk to you for a minute?"
>She gave you a confused look before agreeing and following you outside.
"Now Pinkie, I've got to agree with Nurse Redheart.  Rainbow needs her rest."
>"But--"
"Hold on, I'm not finished."
>She nodded and remained quiet.
"Now then.  I have a plan that I'll need your help to pull off."
>"Me?  What kind of plan?"
"I've heard you're good with parties."
>Her eyes lit up.
>Oh god, what have you done?

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

"I think a surprise party might be just what Rainbow needs."
>If Pinkie smiled any wider, you'd be concerned for her health.
"But because she's in the hospital right now, that makes it a little more difficult."
>If you didn't have it before, there's no doubt that you now have her full and undivided attention.
>"So, what's the plan?  We gonna break her out?"
"No no, she really does need her rest in the hospital.  However...  My house has recently been completed.  Rainbow doesn't know this, so I think--"
>"A SURPRISE GET-WELL-SOON AND HOUSEWARMING PARTY?!"
"Pinkie!  Keep it down or it won't be a surprise!"
>"Oh!  Right.  Sorry."
"I think we'll be okay, so long as you keep this on a need to know basis, understand?"
>She saluted and nodded vigorously.
"Good.  Now, I haven't been to my house yet, I've only just been informed that it's been completed.  Be here tomorrow at noon, and we'll both take a look."
>"Okey dokey loki!"
>With that, she started bouncing gleefully away.
"And Pinkie?"
>She stopped and turned to face you.
>"Yeeeessss, Nonny?"
"Don't tell anyone about this until after tomorrow."
>"Right!"
>You shook your head and walked back inside as Pinkie bounded away.
>As you entered the lobby, Redheart trotted over to you.
>"Anon, we need to talk."
"Okay, what's this a--"
>"It's about Rainbow Dash.  Please come with me; we're going somewhere a little more private."
>You shut your trap and followed the white unicorn down a hallway to an empty recovery room.
"So what's this all about?"

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

>"You need to talk to Rainbow Dash.  While you were away, she tried to get out of bed again."
>Oh shit.
>Seeing the look on your face, Redheart quickly resumed speaking.
>"No, she didn't hurt herself further; but we did have to mover her back into her bed.  She... she wasn't too happy about that..."
"...I see."
>"I don't think she quite realizes the extent of her injuries, Anon.  She'll be fine while she's here, but after we discharge her, you'll need to keep a watchful eye on her."
>"She needs to refrain from moving her wings as much as possible, and she won't be able to walk properly until a week or so after she's out of here.  Until then, she'll need help moving."
>"I think you already know how stubborn she can be.  If she doesn't come to terms with her limited mobility soon, I'm worried she may injure herself even further."
>"Her body is not ready for her level of activity yet.  She HAS to recover first.  We'll deal with rehab later, after she's physically ready."
>Shit.
>She wasn't going to like this.
>Any of it.
>"She's going to have to get used to needing help for a while.  It'll be tedious, but as long as she doesn't hurt herself and you take care of her, I think she'll make a full recovery."
"At least there's a silver lining..."
>"I know it's not the best news.  All things considered, she should consider herself lucky.  If some of those cuts had been a few inches from where they were, she might not have been able to walk again.  Let alone fly."
>Damn.
>"There's... one other thing..."
"No sense trying to soften the blow just spit it out."
>"Rainbow will need help... taking care of herself."

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

"Yeah.  Didn't we just go over that?"
>"No no, I mean she'll need help with more... personal things."
>Oh boy.
"Like what, exactly?"
>She gulped, but looked you dead in the eyes.
>"Like bathing herself or going to the bathroom... Things like that."
>"She won't be able to do many of the things she used to do on her own for quite some time, Anon."
>You nodded.
"I understand..."
>"Good.  I've got some rounds to make, so I suggest you go and talk with her.  She'll take the news from you better than she would a nurse."
>No objection there.
>She trusted you more than the nurses here.
>Not to mention what Twilight had suggested earlier about all those bad memories that she might be dredging up.
>The hospital staff delivering that news to her probably wouldn't go over so well.
>At least you could calm her down if she started to get upset.
>You followed Redheart back into the hallway, and she led you to Rainbow's room.
>"If you need anything, you know how to reach us."
>You nodded.
"Wish me luck."
>"You'll need more than that, but good luck anyways."
>You headed into the room to find Rainbow sitting up, giving a newspaper quite the impressive bored look.
>"Anon!  You're back!"
"I am."
>You step inside and shut the door behind you.
"Wathca reading?"
>"Oh I was just looking through the newspaper."
"Anything interesting in there?"
>"Eh, not really."
>You sat down in the chair next to her bed, and set the box of clothing you'd collected from the auditorium down next to you.
>"Those your clothes from the auditorium?"
"Yup."

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

"So, I heard you had a little... incident earlier..."
>She lowered her head in shame.
>"I... I tried to get out of bed... I kinda forgot I was hurt..."
"I see... Rainbow--"
>"I know, I know... I've got to remember that I'm hurt... Stupid nurse Redheart gave me the same speech..."
"Now I'm telling you.  You've got to be careful, Rainbow.  You could hurt yourself even more."
"I know it's not easy to accept, but you can't just ignore that you're hurt, Dashie."
>"I... I know..."
>You sighed.
"We'll continue that conversation another time.  Right now, I want to know what's gotten into you.  You're not normally that jumpy or anxious."
>"What do you mean?"
"Yesterday.  You freaked out at nurse Redheart trying to change your dressings.  Why?"
>"I... I was having a dream..."
"...And?"
>"It... It was more like a memory..."
"What memory?"
>"...Nurse Redheart telling me you'd died.  Seeing your... your... corpse..."
>Yup.
>Twilight hit the nail on the head.
"Dashie, it was just a dream.  I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere anytime soon without you, okay?"
>"...O-Okay..."
>You sighed.
"When did you get so mushy anyways?"
>She looked up at you when you said that.
>"Hay!  You made me mushy!"
>You leaned in and hugged her, carefully.
"You bet your ass I did.  And I wouldn't have it any other way."
>After a weak jab at your shoulder, she returned the hug.

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


>You spent a few minutes just petting Rainbow, taking care to avoid her injuries.
"So, has Nurse Redheart talked to you at all recently?"
>"Other than asking if she could change my bandages, no she hasn't.  Why?"
>You sighed.
"She caught me in the hall earlier..."
>A worried look now crept its way onto Rainbow's face.
>"What is it Anon?  I can take it."
>Might as well get it out of the way now.
"I'm going to have to start helping you..."
>"That's not so bad--"
"With some more... personal things."
>"...Like what?"
"...Nurse Redheart tells me that you'll be unable to do things like go to the bathroom or bathe by yourself for the first week or so of your recovery..."
>Rainbow was silent for a while.
>She scrunched up her face in frustration.
>"Why?!  Why did this have to happen to me!?"
"I... I don't have an answer for you, Rainbow."
>She donned a frustrated look upon her features.
>"THIS IS ALL VINYL'S FAULT!"
"Rainbow, calm down.  You shouldn't--"
>"DON'T TELL ME TO CALM DOWN!  WHAT IF I CAN'T FLY AGAIN BECAUSE OF HER?!"
>She had tears in her eyes and rage upon her features.
"RAINBOW!  CALM DOWN!"
>You held her down firmly, restricting her movement.
>She looked in your eyes, a rage burning in hers.
>A few moments passed, and her expression softened as she calmed down.
>"I... I'm sorry, Anon..."
>You released her from your grip and sit down in the chair beside her bed.
"It's okay Rainbow."
>The tears in her eyes were now rolling down her cheeks.
>You reached over to wipe them away, but she pushed your hand away.
>"I... I'm so... useless..."

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

>You stood up once more.
"Rainbow, you're not useless.  You're injured.  You've got to stop thinking like that."
>She didn't raise her head to meet your gaze; choosing instead to continue weeping silently.
>You crouched down so that you were at eye level with her.
"Look at me."
>She slowly turned her head and looked at you with her tear-filled magenta eyes.
"Who saved me from falling to my death?"
>She sniffed.
>"I... I did."
"Who gave me a place to stay?"
>"I-I did..."
"And who didn't give up on me when everyone else thought I was dead?"
>"...I did."
"Damn right.  Don't you dare call yourself useless again, you understand me?"
>She recoiled at your harsh words, but nodded.
>You gently scooped her into a hug.
"I love you Dash, and nothing will ever change that."
>"I... I love you too, Nonny."
"I'll be here with you all through your recovery.  We'll get through this, I promise."
>You leaned back out of the hug, and lay her back down on her bed.
"Now then."
>You picked up one of the towels that were on the table, and began cleaning her face.
>"Ack-- Hey!"
"No, this is a towel Rainbow.  Now hold still, I need to clean your face."
>She gave you a deadpan look, but stopped fighting your efforts to clean her up.
>After you were satisfied that the tears had been vacated from her face, you set the towel aside.
"Winners never quit, they just recover.  So, Rainbow, are you a quitter?"
>"What?!  Of course not!"
"Then I expect to see you flying at the end of the month."
>She maneuvered to a sitting position, and saluted you.

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

>You reached over and ruffled her mane.
"That's my Dashie."
>She giggled a little, and put her hoof down.
"So, you hungry or what?"
>"I'm starving!"
>
>
>
>Rainbow was a little irked that she wasn't allowed to eat solid food yet, but ate what she was given.
>The rest of the day went by smoothly, the two of you discussing what you'd be doing after Rainbow was discharged.
>There'd be recovery and rehab after she was discharged, but that was old news.
>What got you two really talking was WHERE you'd go after she was discharged.
>Rainbow wanted to go back to the auditorium to face Vinyl, but you had your concerns about that.
>Not that you thought Vinyl would intentionally hurt Rainbow; rather you didn't want to face Vinyl.
>What she had done to Rainbow was very... fresh in your mind.
>You wanted to look past that; but at the same time, you wanted to tear her apart for what she did.
>Was it really an accident?
>Did she really have no control over herself?
>Why didn't she tell the two of you about her... condition earlier?
>Maybe she didn't know about it herself?
>Maybe she was afraid of how you'd react?
>So many questions...
>
>For now, you were content with letting the situation settle before doing anything major.
>Rainbow didn't like letting something like this sit.
>She wanted to get it over and done with as soon as possible.
>Finally though, you managed to convince her to wait until she could at least fly again.
>Keeping the idea of a surprise party in mind, you convinced Rainbow that you'd taken care of temporary living arrangements.

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

>The next morning arrived just like the previous.
>This time though, Rainbow woke up with you.
>She was much better today than she was yesterday.
>Ready to take on the day.
>
>She was really itching to get out of bed.
>After helping her to the bathroom yourself, you convinced her that she should stay in bed for now.
>She wasn't happy about it, but she couldn't really deny that the doctors knew what they were talking about.
>The bathroom experience wasn't as bad as you were expecting.
>All you really did was help her to the little raised hole in the ground that was a pony toilet, and left her to do her business.
>After she was done, you helped her back to her bed.  Simple as that.
>Not near as bad as Redheart was making it out to be.
>A short while later, nurse Redheart herself showed up, followed by a doctor.
>Apparently, they were going to start daily treatments to help Rainbow's recovery along.
>Rainbow was just a wee bit enthusiastic.
>You were asked to step out while the treatments were going on, and complied.
>The procedure would take a couple of hours minimum.
>Whelp.
>You had things to do at any rate.
>
>Today, you had to make sure Pinkie's surprise party wouldn't destroy your new house.
>Shouldn't have too many problems, but you didn't know for sure.
>This was Pinkie Pie.
>Given what you'd experienced of her so far, she could easily level your house if you weren't careful.
>Who knows what this mare could do if she was upset.
>Upon exiting the hospital, you were nearly knocked off your feet by the pink blur herself.
>"Hi Nonny!"

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

>After detaching her from your chest, you set her on the ground.
"Hello Pinkie.  Ready to--"
>"You know it!"
"Well, I'm going to need your help.  I can't read pony yet, so you'll have to lead me to my house."
>"Sure thing Nonny!"
>You pulled the folded up piece of paper out of your pocket, and showed it to her.
>"Alright, follow me!"
>Before the paper was back in your pocket, Pinkie was bouncing away.
>"C'mon Nonny!  There's so much to do!"
>
>What have you gotten yourself into this time?
>
>You were barely able to keep up with the Pink menace.
>A couple agonizing minutes later and you finally caught up to her.
>She was standing in the street, waiting for you.
>"C'mon Nonny!  Aren't you EXCITED?!"
>
>A few blocks later, and the two of you arrived at your destination.
>The house certainly stood out from the rest of the pony houses.
>It seemed all around... taller.
>Bigger.
>...
>You didn't want to admit it right now, but Vinyl sure did make sure the contractors knew what they were doing.
>At least, that's what you thought from the outside.
>The real test will be the interior.
>There had been a key taped to the back of the note, you'd just never taken it off for fear of losing it.
>As yourself and Pinkie approached the door, you started to fish out the piece of paper with the address on it.
>After removing the key from the back of said note, you unlocked the door.
>Pinkie was inside well before you were.
>Probably breaking some sort of physics law or something.
>As you shut the door, you hear Pinkie zipping around your new house.

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

>"Hey, what's this do?  Ooohh, look at that!  Wow!  These are neat!"
>In a matter of seconds, the bubble gum mare had explored the entire first floor of your house.
>Had you not caught her on her way to the upper floors, she probably would have mapped them out as well.
>You hadn't even had time to examine your living room.
"PINKIE!"
>She stopped darting around and looked at you.
>"Yeeesss Nonny?"
"Can you slow down a second?  I'd like to explore my house too."
>You set her down, and she put a hoof behind her head.
>"Hehehe, sorry Nonny..."
"Listen, I'm going to explore a bit.  Why don't you see about a cak--"
>"OHMYGOSHIFORGOTABOUTTHECAKE!"
>Had you blinked, you would have missed her nearly ripping your door off its hinges.
>At least the house was still standing.
>Having a little peace and quiet, you started to look around.
>The living room was much like Rainbow's old living room.
>Recessed lights near the ceiling, a couch, and a table.
>There were some extras though.
>Probably courtesy of Vinyl.
>
>You spotted recessed speakers every now and again up near the lights.
>There were some bigger speakers in the wall opposing the couch.
>Between the speakers was a record player, along with an assortment of audio equipment.
>
>Definitely Vinyl's doing.
>You moved into the kitchen next, to find the counters all at a comfortable height.
>At Rainbow's house, you'd had to crouch to use the counters.
>The auditorium was a little better, but you still had to lean down.
>This house though...
>Vinyl must've studied you more than you realized.

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

>The standard kitchen utilities were all present and accounted for.
>Sink, refrigerator, freezer...
>Hell, there was even what appeared to be a mini bar.
>The freezer had been pre-stocked with... meat.
>All the types of meat that Vinyl had supplied you with at the auditorium were present.
>Bacon, ground chuck, steak, ribs, pork chops...
>You were starting to salivate just thinking about it all.
>And you haven't even looked through it all.
>There was something hiding behind some ice-cream, but you decided to surprise yourself later.
>The refrigerator was similarly pre-stocked with juices, milk, some fruits...
>
>Wonder if Vinyl was sucking up to you, or if she'd done this before hand...
>You'd have to find out just when these were stocked.
>A door in the kitchen opened up into a walk-in pantry, also stocked...
>
>So, it's safe to assume you're good on food for a long while.
>It's almost too kind...
>Best not to question the supplier of your precious meat.
>For now.
>
>You moved on to find a laundry room and a bathroom.
>Standard pony bathroom.
>Dang.
>Looks like if you want a regular toilet, you're going to have to invent it.
>Oh well.
>
>You had almost made it to the stairs to explore the rest of your house, when there was a knock at the door.
>Opening it, you were greeted by Pinkie, Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, and a yellow pegasus you didn't recognize.
"Pinkie, wha--"
>"I brought the girls to help us plan the party!"
"Well, alright.  Let's keep the party on this floor though.  Can you do that for me?"
>"Okey-Dokey-Loki!"

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

>You stepped aside and let the five mares in.
>You knew Applejack and Rarity, but just barely.
>Twilight and Pinkie you knew a little better, but there was still plenty of room for improvement.
>And then there's the yellow pegasus.
>Pink mane, yellow coat, and cyan-ish eyes.
>You'd never met this mare before.
>
>Well, that's not entirely true.
>She looked vaguely familiar.
>At any rate, you still didn't actually know her.
>Just somewhat recognized her.
>
>After all the mares had entered; you shut the door and led them over to the couch.
>You occupied one of the easy chairs, and all of them save for Pinkie took to the couch.
>Pinkie was the first to speak.
>Naturally.
>"So you've met everypony here, right Nonny?"
"Actually, no.  I've met Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack, but I haven't met--"
>"YOU HAVEN'T MET FLUTTERSHY?!"
>You swear you hear an 'eep' as Pinkie leaps over to the yellow pegasus.
"No, I don't believe I have.  Fluttershy, is it?"
>The quiet pegasus nods at you, but says nothing.
"Well, it's a pleasure to meet you Fluttershy."
>She says nothing.
>Alrighty then, not in the mood for talk.
>Fair enough.
>"I really need to throw a welcome to Ponyville party for you, Nonny.  I don't know how I've managed not to for so long!"
"That's quite alright Pinkie.  Let's focus on Rainbow Dash's party for now, okay?"
>"Okey Dokey!"
>Twilight almost got to say something, before being hushed by Rarity.
>Pinkie didn't seem to notice, and bounced to the top of the small table in front of the couch.
>With that, she begins assigning the other mares to party related tasks.

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

>Twilight was in charge of making sure everything went smoothly and general organization.
>Rarity was tasked with making some festive banners and making sure there were no traces of the surprise party visible before said party.
>Food and drinks were assigned to AJ; Pinkie gave herself the task of acquiring the cakes and other random party favors.
>That left only you and Fluttershy.
"Pinkie, what about me and Fluttershy?"
>"You're going to make sure Rainbow doesn't know anything about the party, silly!  And Fluttershy, you're gonna help him!"
>"Uh, Pinkie, I think I could use some extra help with moving the food and drinks, if that's all right," said AJ.
>"Really?  Well, I guess that's okay.  Nonny, will you be able to handle Rainbow on your own?"
"I don't see why not Pinkie."
>"Okey dokey then!  You've got your duties ponies; the party is in two days!  Any questions?"
>Once more, Twilight was about to say something, only to be silenced by Rarity.
>"Great!  We'll meet up here in two days!"
>Before anyone could object, Pinkie was ushering everyone out of the house.
>Save for you.
>It was your house after all.
>"See ya in two days Nonny!"
>Then Pinkie shut the door behind herself.
>About five minutes later, there was a knock at the door.
>You opened it to find Twilight.
"Twilight?  Did you forget something?"
>"We need to talk Anon."
"Oh.  Alright then, come on in."
>You let her in, and shut the door behind her.
"So, what's on your mind Twilight?"
>"It's about Fluttershy."
"What abou--"
>"She... well, she doesn't exactly like you, Anon."

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

"What?  But, I haven't even m--"
>"I know you haven't met her, she's made sure of that.  Ever since she found out you eat meat, she's made an effort to avoid you at all costs."
"But I thought eating meat was accepted since I--"
>"It is, but that doesn't mean ponies can't form opinions about you."
>"You see, Fluttershy cares for quite a bit of creatures, any of which you probably would eat."
"I would never eat a pet, Twilight.  Why did Fluttershy just jump to--"
>"She's had... She's had some bad experiences with meat-eating species in the past."
"So she assumes that since I eat meat, I'll be just another--"
>"Exactly."
"But--"
>"Not too long ago, a griffon gave her a rough time; not to mention she absolutely despises adult dragons."
"Both of which eat meat."
>"Exactly."
"But what does that have to do with me?  I'm not a griffon or a dragon!  I'm the only one of my species here!"
>"I know that, and Fluttershy knows that, but that doesn't change anything in her eyes.  She's already the shiest pony in Equestria."
>"Add that to her being over-protective of the animals she looks after and her bad experiences with meat-eaters--"
"I'm starting to see why she doesn't like me."
>"I've tried to reason with her, but she's convinced that she should stay away from you."
"Jeeze.  Most ponies I've met have been pretty open minded about the whole eating meat thing.  What's her deal?"
>"Her 'deal' Anon, is that she just wants to stay away from you.  She's already made Applejack suspicious of you."
"What?!  But I work for Applejack!"

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

>"Applejack never really trusted you, Anon.  Think about it.  She thanked you for saving Apple Bloom, but beyond that, she has no reason to trust you."
>"Fluttershy hasn't been directly trying to do this, Anon.  She's just been pointing out certain things that nopony else has really given any thought."
"Like what?"
>"Ever since you've arrived, you've been nothing but trouble for Rainbow Dash."
>You were silent.
>She had a point.
>But it's not like you've intentionally tried to cause Rainbow problems.
"You don't think I'm trying to do any of that to Rainbow, do you Twilight?"
>Her turn to be silent for a minute or so.
>"No, I don't think you are, Anon."
>Great.
>At least you've got Twilight on your side.
"What about Pinkie and Rarity?"
>"Rarity decided to let your actions speak for themselves.  You'll know what she thinks of you when she decides to let you know."
>Not so bad.  At least she's giving you a chance.
"What about Pinkie?"
>"She's Pinkie Pie, Anon."
>
"Point taken."
>"I still think you can win AJ back, you've just got to stop giving her and Fluttershy reason to doubt you or your intentions."
>So there's still a chance of redemption.
>Good news.
>"Once you've earned AJ's trust, Fluttershy might start to change her mind."
"Okay, sounds easy enough."
>"You obviously don't know AJ that well, Anon.  You could trust her with your life, but it takes a lot for her to trust anypony else."
>"She's very... Cautious.  Apple Bloom liking you helps a bit, but it'll take more than just that."
>You sighed.
>At least you had your Dashie.

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

"So, what you're telling me is that I've just got to give Fluttershy her space?"
>"Basically.  She'll talk to you if she wants to talk, Anon.  Just don't do anything brash, and you'll be alright."
"She seemed nice enough earlier..."
>"She didn't say anything the entire time she was here, Anon."
"Good point."
>"She's really a nice pony, she's just--"
"Xenophobic?"
>"Xeno-what-now?"
"She's afraid of things she doesn't know or understand?"
>"Most ponies are, Anon."
"But she's more so than other ponies, isn't she?"
>"...Yeah.  You could say that."
>You sighed before chuckling to yourself.
>"What's so funny?"
"When I went to Canterlot, Princess Luna fought for my rights even though she didn't know me.  Celestia tried to lock me up -because- she didn't know me."
"Now it's the same sort of thing, but with Rainbow and Fluttershy."
>Twilight didn't laugh, but she understood what you were saying.
>"Well, I'm going to get going Anon.  I figured you should know before the party."
"Thanks Twilight.  I should probably head back to the hospital anyways; Rainbow's probably starting to worry."
>Twilight giggled at that.
"What?"
>"Those are words that you don't hear together too often.  Worry and Rainbow."
"Right.  Let's get going."
>"Right."
>The two of you vacated the house, and you locked the door behind you.
>You could explore the rest of the house later.
>For now, it was time to head back to your Dashie.
>She was what mattered to you, not what her friends thought of you.
>If they didn't like you, that was their business.

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

>The next two days passed faster than you'd hoped.
>You'd spend as much time with Rainbow as you could, but the procedures she was having cut a sizeable chunk out of the time you could spend with her.
>She was showing serious improvement though.
>When you arrived back at the hospital after her first treatment, she was nearly free of scars.
>The couple that remained disappeared after the next treatment.
>During the third treatment, you had met with Pinkie back at your house to give her the green light on the party.
>While you and Rainbow were going over what was next in her recovery, Pinkie was surely bending time to her will and setting up a party.
>Being concerned with what state your house was going to be in when you arrived didn't distract you from your Rainbow though.
>"You'll be restricted to a wheelchair for the first week, Ms. Dash.  All you have to do is take it easy and let your body heal on its own."
>"We've gotten a majority of the healing done with your procedures, but we've got to let your body take over now."
>Rainbow beat you to the inevitable question, "Why don't you just use magic to heal me all the way?"
>"While we can do that with smaller injuries, using magic for prolonged periods of time on non-unicorns can cause your body to stop trying to heal."
>"Basically, you'd become dependent on magic.  I've seen it happen before, and we don't know how to reverse it."
>"By stopping now, we're giving your body a chance to ease back into the healing process. So long as you take it easy and don't strain yourself, you'll be fine."

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

>Rainbow slowly nodded her understanding, and Redheart continued.
>"If all goes well, you should be able to walk again by the end of the week.  A week after that, and we should be able to take your wings out of their casts."
>If a facial expression could generate light, you'd be blind right now.
>"Regardless of when the casts come off, you'll have to go through rehabilitation."
>Aaaaand gone.
>"Being unable to use your wings for so long, we have to make sure your body hasn't simply 'forgotten' about them."
>"How could I forget my wings?!  They're attached ya know!"
>"I have no doubt you know your wings are there, but we've got to make sure your muscles remember how to work properly after being inactive for so long."
>"That's a load of--"
"Rainbow, I think Nurse Redheart knows what she's talking about."
>"What?!"
"It's very similar to recovery procedures where I'm from.  People that ignore them tend to wind up hurting themselves more."
>"But--"
"No buts."
>She folded her front hooves over her chest and slumped back in her wheelchair.
>"I HATE waiting..."
>You reached down and began petting her mane as Redheart finished up detailing what was going to happen.
>"Depending on rehab, you should be back to yourself in about three weeks."
"Three weeks shouldn't be too bad, right Dashie?"
>"...I guess."
"Then let’s get out of here, shall we?"
>You put your box of belongings in Rainbow's lap, and proceeded to wheel her out of the hospital.
>"Remember to take it easy, or you'll be back here sooner than either of us would like, Ms. Dash!"

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

>Encouraging words, Redheart.
>Even though Rainbow wasn't in the best of moods, you couldn't be happier.
>Mind you, she didn't know everything you knew.
>She didn't know that your house had been completed.
>She didn't know about Pinkie's ambush.
>No, all she knew was that you weren't taking her back to your cozy bed at the auditorium; and that she was finally leaving the hospital.
>The sunlight almost blinded her, it'd been so long.
>"So, where we gonna stay, Nonny?"
"I'm not telling."
>"...You did find a place, right?"
"Of course!"
>A couple turns later, and Rainbow was thoroughly confused.
>She was running out of guesses.
>"The Iron Inn?"
"Nope."
>"The--"
"It's right down here, Rainbow."
>She began searching for what she presumed to be a hotel of some sort.
>"Where is it?  I don't see any hotel over here..."
"Exactly" you said as you continued pushing her down the street.
>"So, where are we staying?"
>You didn't say anything, and continued pushing her towards your house.
>"Nonny?"
>You arrived at the front door of the house before responding.
"This is where we're staying, Rainbow."
>"What?  Who's house is it?"
"Mine."
>You reached over and opened the door.
>"But how--"
"Don't you remember me and Vinyl discussing this way back when?"
>She thought for a minute before her eyes widened as the memory came flooding back to her.
>"I completely forgot..."
>You push Rainbow in the house, and shut the door behind yourself.
>Before you can fumble around in the dark to find the light switch, the lights pop on.
>"SURPRISE!"

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

>Confetti was everywhere, streamers were flying, and Rainbow was in shock.
>All according to plan.
"Welcome home Rainbow."
>By the time you'd finished saying that, Pinkie was flying towards Rainbow.
>"DASHIE!!!"
>With you bracing the wheelchair, Pinkie wound up looking like some great bubblegum tumor attached to Rainbow's face.
>"OW!  PINKIE!"
>Pinkie instantly hopped off Rainbow and onto the ground.
>"Sorry, Dashie, I'm just so EXCITED!"
>Luckily, Pinkie didn't actually hurt Rainbow.
>"What are you doing here, Pinkie?"
>"It's not just me, I brought EVERYPONY!"
>AJ, Rarity, Twilight and Fluttershy were all approaching Rainbow.
>They all said hello about the same time.
>Then came the torrent of questions.
>"Why were you in the hospital?  Why didn't you tell us?  How are you?  How long are you going to be in a wheelchair?"
>All being asked by a different pony at about the same instance.
>"Ladies please!  One at a time!  Anon, can you push me over to the couch so we can sit down?"
>"I'll do it!"  Pinkie said, bolting over and pushing Rainbow over to the couch.
"I see you've got some catching up to do.  I'll go put our things away Rainbow."
>She was about to respond before AJ started up the downpour of questions again.
>She wound up nodding to you as you headed up the stairs with your box of belongings.
>Now is as good a time as any to find out what all was up here.
>You'd been meaning to explore your house further, but wound up getting sidetracked each time you had time for it.
>Rainbow had some catching up to do anyway.

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

>Besides, this gave you something to do without seeming like an over-bearing prick to her friends.
>A bit of snooping, and you'd found a master bedroom, a guest bedroom, and what seemed like an office style room.
>After putting your few clothes away in the master bedroom's closet, you headed up to the third floor.
>It was mostly empty storage space.  Not quite an attic, but it wasn't furnished like the floors below.
>A sizeable house.  The furnishing that Vinyl did provide seemed to spare no expense.
>The guest bed was only slightly smaller than the bed in the master bedroom; and both bedrooms had walk-in closets and full-sized bathrooms.
>Knowing Vinyl, she'd probably sound-proofed the entire house.
>You'll have to face her eventually.
>As you headed back down to Rainbow and her friends, you could hear the faint beat of some party music.
>At least she was having a good time.
>Once you were back in the living room, you found Pinkie, AJ, Twilight, and Rarity all chatting and enjoying themselves.
>Rainbow and Fluttershy were having what appeared to be a rather intense conversation about something.
>You walked over to Rainbow and kissed her on the head.
"How's your party Dashie?"
>She smiled and looked up at you.
>"It's great Nonny!"
"I'm glad Pinkie knows a thing or two about parties."
>"Hehe, yeah."
"I'm gonna go get something to eat, you want anything?"
>"No, I'm good Nonny."
>You headed off to the kitchen.
>Something was wrong.
>Her smile was forced, her enthusiasm fake.
>What was she up to?

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

>It's her party, you can figure out what's bothering her afterwards.
>You proceed to make yourself a delicious looking ham and cheese sandwich.
>You sit down at the kitchen table and almost had the sandwich to your mouth, when there was a knock at the...
>Refrigerator?
>What?
>
>You walk over and open the refrigerator, only to have Pinkie dart out of it carrying what appeared to be a cake.
>As you stood there trying to figure out what just happened, she was trotting into the living room saying something along the lines of "Thanks Nonny!"
>
>Best not to try and figure Pinkie out.
>You sit back down and resume eating your glorious sandwich.
>A couple minutes later, you heard a pony come trotting into the kitchen.
>You turned to see Fluttershy slowly approach you.
>You still haven't officially met her; why not try to make a good impression?
"Oh, hello Fluttershy; I don't think we've been properly introduced, my na--"
>"You're Anon.  I know."
"Oh.  Well, would you like something to eat?"
>"Um, no.  If it's alright with you, I think I'll just have some punch."
"Sure, lemme get you so--"
>"That's quite alright, I'll just get it myself."
>You sit yourself back down.
"Alrighty then.  The punch is in the fridge; cups are on the counter."
>She nods and heads over to collect a party cup.
>You resume eating once more, only to stop when you hear something.
>It was very quiet.  So quiet, you almost didn't hear it.
>'eep?'
>You turned to find the source of the sound, to find Fluttershy staring at your plate.

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

>You swallowed what was in your mouth and spoke up.
"Something wrong?"
>"Well, no...  I-I mean...  What are you eating?"
>You look from her to your plate and back.
"Umm... A ham sandwich?"
>Her eyes started to water.
"What?  Is there something wrong?"
>"I...  A..."
>She ran off back to the living room before you could get an answer.
>You followed her to see what was wrong.
>The scene you happened upon was... interesting.
>Fluttershy had tears in her eyes, and was saying something to Rainbow.
>Twilight, Rarity and Applejack were all arguing about something or other, and Pinkie was...
>To be honest, you weren't really sure what Pinkie was doing.
>She had a smile on and was doing some sort of dance while looking at Fluttershy, so it appeared to be some sort of 'please stop crying' dance or something.
>Regardless, all activity ceased when you entered the room.
"Ladies?  Everything all right?"
>Applejack scrunched up her face and pointed a hoof at Fluttershy.
>"You made Fluttershy cry!  What in tarnation did ya do?!"
"I--"
>"Ya know what?  I don't even want ta know.  I wouldn't worry about showing up at the farm if I were you, Anon."
>Fuck.
>You just lost your job at sweet apple acres.
>"Applejack!  You should at least allow Anon to explain himself!  There's no need to be so--"
>"Oh, come off it Rarity!  I'm not gonna stick around for any more of Anon's lies.  If the rest of y'all had any common sense, you'd--"
>"Get out."
>Everyone stopped and looked at Rainbow.
>"Now Rainbow, don't ya think you should come too?  I just don' want ta see ya get tangled up in--"
>"I said, get.  Out."

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

>"But Rainbow--"
>"NO!  GET OUT!  ALL OF YOU!"
>You were a little shocked by her outburst, along with the other ponies.
>Applejack gave you an evil look before heading for the door.
>"C'mon girls.  Rainbow obviously doesn't--"
>She was cut off when Twilight smacked her over the head and led the way out.
>Pinkie was absolutely crushed.
>Even her hair reflected how she felt.
>Like someone had deflated her.
>As the rest of the ponies left, you went to shut the door.
>When you did, you could almost swear you caught a glimpse of Fluttershy giving you an evil eye look.
>
>You walked back over to Rainbow and pulled her wheelchair next to your position on the couch.
"So."
>"I don't want to talk about it."
"You don't have a choice in the matter."
>You plucked her from her chair, and sat her down next to you.
>She gave you an angry look, but didn't say a word.
"That's fine.  I can wait."
>You pulled the pouty/angry Rainbow into a hug and relaxed on the couch.
>She groaned.
>"That's not fair."
"Nope."
>She sighed.
>Glorious victory!
>"It's Fluttershy... She's... She just doesn't seem to care what I think of you.  It's like she thinks I can't think for myself."
>"She wouldn't let up!  She kept insulting you, saying that you were using me... When I asked her why, she would say that you've been nothing but trouble for me since you arrived."
>"She didn't say anything about your eating meat, like she would to everypony else."
>You sat quietly for a minute.
>"I just don't know what to do..."
>You held her close.
>You didn't really know what to do either.

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

"I think, maybe she'll change her mind once we get you flying again."
>"I dunno Anon... I've never seen her like this before..."
"We've just got to make sure things start looking up.  Once she figures out you're actually happy, maybe she'll open her mind a little."
>"Maybe..."
"Try not to worry about it too much.  We'll just have to deal with whatever happens."
>"I know..."
"Why don't we get you to bed.  It's late enough we could call it bed time anyway."
>"But I don't want to sleep!"
"Sure you don't.  Besides, you need all the rest you can get.  You want to fly again, don't you?"
>"Duh!"
"Then it's bed time."
>After you put her in bed, you went back downstairs to clean up the party.
>You never did get to finish your sandwich.

###Last Edit: 9/11/12 2330