All Day, Everyday.

by Penanka72

Chapter 10.5 - You're not silly, Fluttershy. It's okay... I'm here.

Chapter 11.5

Fluttershy, a resilient and self-sufficient pegasus, was highly esteemed across her community. To those familiar with her, she epitomised a figure of immense compassion and diligence, tirelessly devoted to the welfare of her beloved animal friends and the close-knit group of ponies she considered family. Although her gentle demeanour was well acknowledged by many, only a few intimate confidants truly grasped the complexity and depth of Fluttershy's character. Beneath her unassuming exterior lay a nuanced individual, whose profound inner life remained largely unrecognised by the broader populace.

The vast majority of Ponyville's residents were unaware of the rich and varied life Fluttershy led—a life marked by extreme highs and profound lows. Her subdued demeanour was often misread as mere shyness or an inherent trait, with many overlooking the possibility that her quiet nature was shaped by her deep and multifaceted experiences. Rather than sparking curiosity, her reserved nature led many to mistakenly label her as just another typical pegasus, one of many with a gentle disposition and a friendly smile.

This widespread misperception failed to capture the true essence of Fluttershy's journey and the profound emotional depth she possessed. Her life was anything but ordinary; it was filled with meaningful encounters and transformative experiences that significantly influenced her composed demeanour. To consider Fluttershy as merely another pegasus was a profound misunderstanding. Those who did so missed the rich tapestry of life experiences that defined her spirit, a tapestry far from ordinary and known fully only to a select few in Ponyville.

In the community, Fluttershy was a beloved and familiar presence, known not just for her kind nature but also for her steadfast dedication to both the community and its animals. Her frequent trips to the White Tail Woods to care for the animals she had previously rehabilitated were well-known. She was also a constant figure at the local veterinary clinic, where she provided tender care to the pets of Ponyville, treating each with supreme empathy and dedication.

Additionally, Fluttershy was often seen leading a group of dogs through the town streets, her calm and patient guidance ensuring peace and order among the animals. Her commitment to the environment was equally apparent in her efforts to clean the streets and pick up litter, diligently working to maintain the beauty and health of her beloved Ponyville.

During a rare moment of solitude on her couch with a cup of tea in hand, Fluttershy found herself lost in reflection, the tea untouched and merely serving as a mirror for her contemplative gaze. These quiet moments were often filled with shadows of regret and sorrow, a stark contrast to the active care she usually provided. Her free time was consumed not with peace, but with the heavy burden of past deeds weighing on her heart. The reflection in her tea seemed to show not just her face but also the unresolved grief and longing for redemption that haunted her.

As she sat immersed in her thoughts, a single tear rolled down her cheek, one of many that found their way into her cup, distorting the reflection. Despite her relentless efforts and countless acts of kindness, she felt no closer to redemption, her actions seeming increasingly futile as she battled an endless cycle of guilt and remorse.

The weight of her past pressed heavily upon her, filling her quiet moments with a sense of being trapped in a hopeless pursuit of absolution. As she questioned the value of her efforts, wondering if the forgiveness she sought was merely an illusion, the presence of Pooch, the small wooden wolf pup, broke her solitude. His concerned green eyes and soft whimpers reminded her that she was not alone. Hastily wiping away her tears, she reassured both Pooch and herself with a cracked whisper, "I'm okay… I’ll be okay," clinging to this hope amidst her doubts and grief. Pooch’s silent companionship offered a solid comfort, a reminder that her struggles were witnessed and shared, not borne in isolation.

As Fluttershy sat wrapped in her thoughts, the sudden sound of three sharp knocks on the door broke through the silence of the room, startling her from her reflective state. She paused, wondering who it might be at this time. It couldn't be Amelia; she had left for school an hour earlier. The mailmare was unlikely; she typically just slipped any letters through the mail slot, and besides, Fluttershy couldn't recall ordering anything recently. Curiosity mingled with mild apprehension as she pondered the unexpected visitor.

Carefully, Fluttershy dabbed at her eyes one last time to ensure no traces of her earlier emotions remained visible. She placed her untouched cup of tea on the coffee table and rose from the couch. With a deep, steadying breath, she approached the door, her movements hesitant yet composed. She reached for the doorknob, her heart fluttering with a mix of nervousness and anticipation.

Turning the knob, she slowly pulled open the door, and her eyes widened with surprise. Standing before her was not an everyday visitor or a mundane interruption to her solitude. Instead, she was greeted with a delightful and wholly unexpected presence, one that brought an immediate smile to her face, transforming the remnants of sorrow into a moment of joyous surprise.

Standing at the door was none other than Rainbow Dash, her vibrant, rainbow-coloured mane as striking as ever in the soft light of the afternoon. The usually assertive and daring pegasus wore a small, somewhat hesitant smile, her voice carrying a scratchy tone that hinted at both tiredness and a trace of nervousness.

"Hey, sis," she greeted Fluttershy softly, using the endearing term that underscored their deep familial bond. As the older sister, Fluttershy was quick to notice the unusual timidity in Rainbow Dash's demeanour—a stark contrast to her normal display of brash confidence and fearless spirit.

Rainbow Dash's outfit reflected her vibrant personality and athletic achievements. She sported a striking red varsity jacket from the Gunnar’s Hoofball Club, a testament to her prowess in the sport. The jacket was customised to suit her colourful nature, with rainbow accents adorning the collar and the cuffs, adding a personal touch that sparkled with her dynamic flair.

Below, she wore simple black athletic shorts that allowed her ease of movement and comfort, suitable for her active lifestyle. Her footwear was equally expressive—light blue and white trainers that were stylishly customised. The laces shimmered with rainbow colours, and several parts of the trainers themselves bore hints of the same spectrum, making the ensemble uniquely 'Rainbow'.

This sporty and eye-catching attire not only highlighted Rainbow Dash's athletic identity but also served as a visual representation of her energetic and bold character, making her instantly recognisable and distinctly Rainbow Dash in every aspect.

Fluttershy's eyes lit up with a blend of concern and affection at the sight of her younger sister, her own troubles momentarily set aside. "Rainbow Dash! What brings you here at this hour?" she exclaimed, her voice infused with warmth and an inviting tone.

Gently, Fluttershy stepped aside to allow Rainbow Dash into the cozy confines of her home. She draped an arm around Rainbow's shoulders in a comforting embrace, guiding her towards the living room with a soothing presence. "You look like you could use some tea—or maybe something stronger," Fluttershy suggested, her nurturing instincts kicking in as she led her sister deeper into the house.

The living room was bathed in the golden hues of the late afternoon sun, casting a calming glow over the familiar furnishings. Fluttershy motioned for Rainbow Dash to take a seat on the plush couch, where a few cushions were artfully arranged. As Rainbow settled in, Fluttershy headed towards the kitchen to prepare some tea, her movements graceful and caring.

This intimate setting provided the perfect backdrop for heartfelt conversations. Fluttershy, embracing her role as the older sibling, was ready to offer whatever comfort or counsel Rainbow Dash might need. Their dynamic naturally shifted to one of support and understanding, reinforcing the deep, supportive bond that only siblings share. In this moment, their roles as protector and confidante were more pronounced than ever, showcasing the depth of their connection and mutual reliance.

Once the tea was ready, Fluttershy carefully carried the steaming cups back to the living room, placing one in front of Rainbow Dash with a gentle smile. Rainbow, appreciating the thoughtful gesture, thanked Fluttershy with a gentle nod and wrapped her hands around the cup. She took a tentative sip, relieved to find the temperature perfectly soothing.

Fluttershy then settled herself on a single couch across from Rainbow Dash, Pooch jumping on her lap as soon as she sat down, laying into a ball. Fluttershy cradled her own cup, which had gone cold from earlier neglect. She didn’t mind, as her focus was fully on her younger sister now.

“How are you? Has everything been okay in Cloudsdale?” Fluttershy inquired, initiating a conversation with a tone of genuine concern. Her eyes searched Rainbow Dash’s, looking for signs of the usual vigour or any hints of the issues that might have brought her here unexpectedly.

Rainbow Dash's response was subdued, the single word "okay…" trailing off into the air as if carrying more weight than it let on. She took another sip of her tea, using the moment to gather her thoughts, her expression betraying a hint of something more beneath the surface.

Fluttershy observed her sister's demeanour, the vague answer and the pause that followed sparking a gentle concern. She knew Rainbow Dash well enough to recognise when something was amiss, even when hidden behind a facade of nonchalance. The room grew quiet for a moment, filled only with the soft clinking of tea cups and the distant hum of the afternoon.

Sensing the need for a gentle nudge, Fluttershy leaned forward slightly, her voice soft and encouraging. "Just okay? You know you can talk to me about anything, right?" she offered, giving Rainbow Dash the space and reassurance she might need to open up about whatever was troubling her.

Rainbow Dash's demeanour shifted, her smile broadening as she recognised her deviation from her usual upbeat self. Her tone brightened, infused with the familiar blend of pride and enthusiasm that she was known for. "No need to worry about me, sis, I’m living the life up in Cloudsdale and with the Gunner’s Hoofball Club. I’m the top scorer in the league, I have tons of friends and fans, and you and I don’t have to worry about our financial situation anymore. Life is good!" she exclaimed, her spirit lifting visibly with each word.

This declaration was pure Rainbow Dash—full of confidence and a touch of bravado, yet sincere and heartfelt. Her success and happiness were evident, and it reassured Fluttershy to hear that her younger sister was thriving in her elements.

Fluttershy's response was a soft smile, her eyes momentarily dipping to the cold tea in her hand. She felt a mix of relief and joy for Rainbow Dash’s achievements and well-being. It comforted her to know that despite the concerns and the burdens she carried herself, Rainbow Dash was out there shining brightly, living her dreams. This knowledge brought a gentle peace to Fluttershy's heart, reminding her of the beautiful balance of their sisterly relationship: even when one struggled, the other's successes brought shared joy and pride.

Her gaze lifted back to Rainbow Dash, her smile warm and full of affection. "That sounds wonderful, Rainbow. I’m so proud of you," Fluttershy said, her voice soft but filled with immense love and pride.

The room fell into a comfortable silence once more, with only the soft sound of Rainbow Dash taking another sip of her tea breaking the quiet. Fluttershy's gaze was thoughtful, filled with admiration for her sister's accomplishments.

"You're amazing, Rainbow. Scoring so many goals is so like you. I’m sure you will win the league this season," Fluttershy spoke through the silence, her words laden with genuine pride and encouragement.

Rainbow Dash looked up from her tea, a hint of warmth colouring her cheeks at the compliment. It was clear that despite her usual bravado, Rainbow Dash valued her sister's opinion and felt bolstered by her support. Her eyes sparkled with a renewed vigour, a reminder of her passion and dedication to her sport.

"Yeah, I hope so too. We've got a great team this year," Rainbow Dash responded, her voice carrying a mix of hope and determination. Her response not only reflected her confidence but also hinted at the importance of teamwork and community in her achievements.

Fluttershy nodded, her expression one of reassurance and belief in her sister's capabilities. "With you on the team, I have no doubt you guys have what it takes," she added, further strengthening the bond of mutual respect and support between them.

Rainbow Dash's gaze drifted down to Fluttershy's lap, where the small wooden pup was now snoozing comfortably. Despite her familiarity with the wild and often fearsome timberwolves from their adventures in the Everfree Forest, Rainbow was taken aback to see such a creature, albeit a much smaller and seemingly harmless one, being so close to Fluttershy. The contrast between Fluttershy's gentle, timid nature and the known ferocity of timberwolves sparked a mix of curiosity and concern in her.

"Hey, Flutters... what you doing with a timberwolf? Aren’t they—y’know, dangerous?" Rainbow asked, her tone a blend of intrigue and worry. She adjusted her position on the couch, tucking her legs to the side as she settled in more comfortably, her eyes fixed on the wooden creature.

Fluttershy smiled softly, her eyes lighting up with affection as she looked down at the sleeping wooden pup. "Oh, this isn’t just any timberwolf, Rainbow. This is Pooch," she explained, her voice filled with warmth. "He was left alone and hurt in the woods, and I couldn’t just leave him there. He’s different, not like the others. He’s gentle and hasn’t shown any signs of aggression. It seems he was separated from his pack, or maybe he was cast out. But he’s been nothing but sweet and protective since I found him."

She gently stroked the smooth wooden bark of Pooch, demonstrating the bond that had formed between them. "I’ve been taking care of him, and he’s become a part of the family now. He’s really quite special."

Rainbow Dash listened, her initial skepticism slowly melting away as she observed the tender interaction between Fluttershy and Pooch. It was clear that Fluttershy saw something in Pooch that perhaps no one else could, a testament to her enduring kindness and her ability to see the good in all creatures, regardless of their nature.

"That’s really cool, Flutters. Leave it to you to turn something scary into something so... cute," Rainbow admitted, her tone softening as she smiled at the sight. Her respect for Fluttershy’s compassionate nature grew, reminded again of her sister's unique ability to nurture and heal, even in the most unlikely scenarios.

As Fluttershy continued to stroke Pooch, her thoughts drifted to the vivid memories of Amelia’s first days with the wooden pup. She smiled gently, her heart filling with warmth as she replayed those moments in her mind. It was a scene that spoke volumes about the compassionate spirit that thrived within their home, a spirit largely instilled by Amelia's earnest efforts.

In her mind's eye, Fluttershy saw Amelia tenderly caring for Pooch, her small hands gently brushing his wooden fur, her voice soft and reassuring as she spoke to him. She remembered how Amelia had made it her mission to look after him in every possible way—from nursing him back to health, feeding him, to giving him all the attention he needed. Fluttershy’s role had been supportive, assisting where needed, but she always felt that the true credit belonged to Amelia.

Amelia’s dedication had transformed Pooch from a creature to be wary of into a beloved member of the family. In her thoughts, Fluttershy replayed the scenes of Amelia sitting patiently with Pooch, teaching him to trust again, to feel safe in their presence. These memories were a testament to Amelia’s kindness and the nurturing environment they had cultivated together.

Silence once again enveloped the room, a peaceful quietude that seemed to accentuate the bonds between its occupants. Rainbow Dash took another contemplative sip of her tea, the warmth of the cup comforting in her hands. Across from her, Fluttershy continued to stroke Pooch with gentle, rhythmic motions, each brush of her hand over the wooden fur soothing not only the pup but herself as well.

The soft sounds of Pooch's mechanical whirring and the occasional clink of a tea cup settling back onto a saucer filled the space with a serene ambiance. It was these moments of stillness that often spoke louder than words between the sisters, each comfortable in the other's presence and united by an unspoken understanding.

As Fluttershy stroked Pooch and the silence deepened, her mind wandered back to past moments shared with Rainbow Dash. She reminisced about how, away from the public eye, Rainbow's usual egotistical and flashy demeanour would soften. When it was just the two of them, Rainbow became more deliberate with her words, her tone more humble, revealing a side of her that few others saw.

For Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash's presence alone brought a profound sense of safety and comfort. It was a silent, steadfast assurance that she was not alone, that she had someone who truly understood and cared for her. Rainbow’s quieter, more reflective side was a stark contrast to her public persona, and it was this Rainbow that Fluttershy held dear.

In these quiet moments, their shared history and the depth of their connection created an environment where words were unnecessary. The mere presence of Rainbow Dash, sitting there with her, sipping tea, was enough to instil a feeling of peace and security in Fluttershy's heart.

The unexpected shift in Rainbow's tone pulled Fluttershy from her reverie. Concern was etched across Rainbow's face as she leaned forward, her eyes intently searching Fluttershy's.

"Sister... are you okay?" Rainbow's voice carried a note of worry that was rare for her usual bravado.

Fluttershy, momentarily confused by her sister's concern, looked up from Pooch, her expression one of puzzled curiosity. "Yes, of course, why do you ask?" she responded, her voice gentle yet clearly perplexed.

"You're crying," Rainbow pointed out, her observation straightforward.

Fluttershy's frown deepened in surprise as her hand instinctively rose to touch her face. Her fingers came away moist, confirming Rainbow's observation. She hadn't even realised tears had begun to fall, so caught up was she in her thoughts and memories.

"Oh..." Fluttershy murmured, her voice soft and slightly shaky as she looked at her damp fingers. Realisation dawned on her that, despite the peaceful setting and the comfort of her sister's company, emotions from her deep reflections had surfaced unbidden.

Seeing the confusion and then recognition in Fluttershy's eyes, Rainbow Dash's concern grew. She shifted closer on the couch, her demeanour changing from casual to supportive. Rainbow reached out, her hand offering a comforting touch on Fluttershy's arm, her presence a silent reassurance.

Fluttershy attempted a feeble smile, an effort to mask the emotional turmoil bubbling within her. "How silly of me," she murmured, her voice quivering despite her attempt at levity. But the facade quickly faltered; more tears spilled down her cheeks, each one tracing a path of unchecked sorrow. Her sniffles grew louder, and her breathing became shaky, the physical manifestations of her inner pain all too evident.

Rainbow Dash reacted instantly, her instincts as a protective sister kicking in. She rose swiftly from her seat and closed the distance between them, enveloping Fluttershy in a comforting embrace. Rainbow's heart raced, thudding audibly in her chest as she held her sister close, her own emotions surging in response to Fluttershy's distress.

To Rainbow, Fluttershy had always been the epitome of strength and support. She was the one who had cheered the loudest at every goal she scored, celebrated each victory with unmatched enthusiasm, and inadvertently nurtured Rainbow’s confidence and ego. Despite others seeing Fluttershy as delicate and fragile, Rainbow knew the truth of her resilience and fortitude.

Yet, holding Fluttershy now, feeling her tremble and hearing the heart-wrenching sobs that shook her body, Rainbow felt a pang of fear. It was a rare and unsettling sensation to see the sister she admired so deeply in such a vulnerable state. Rainbow tightened her embrace, her actions both an offer of comfort and a plea for her sister to find solace.

"You're not silly, Fluttershy. It's okay... I'm here," Rainbow whispered soothingly, her voice a steady presence in the storm of Fluttershy's emotions. She stroked her sister's back gently, a silent promise that she would stand by her through this moment of weakness and beyond. In that embrace, Rainbow sought to provide the reassurance and strength that Fluttershy had so often given her, hoping to mirror the unwavering support that had always defined their relationship.

Rainbow Dash caught her breath as Fluttershy’s anguish spilled out in raw, unfiltered bursts. The room, once filled with a somber stillness, now resonated with the intensity of Fluttershy’s emotional storm. Fluttershy’s grip on Rainbow’s jacket tightened, her fingers clenching the fabric as she buried her face deeper against her sister, her cries deepening into sounds of sheer agony.

Rainbow felt a sharp pain in her chest, as if each of Fluttershy’s sobs were physical blows to her heart. It was a sound of pain she had never heard before—not from Fluttershy, not from anyone. The distress was palpable, resonating with a severity that shook her.

“I’ve—I’ve tried so hard…” Fluttershy’s voice trembled, muffled against the fabric of Rainbow’s varsity jacket. “But—no matter what I—I do, I feel so, so guilty for what I did.”

The words struck Rainbow Dash like lightning. She gently pushed Fluttershy back, just enough to look into her sister’s tear-streaked face, her eyes swollen and red from crying. The mention of Otter brought back a flood of memories—the game, the accident, the aftermath.

“Fluttershy, what happened to Otter was not your fault! You went for the tackle, you panicked, it happens in hoofball. Players get hurt, some get lucky and some—” Rainbow’s voice faltered, her ears flattening against her head, the weight of the situation pressing down on her. “And some don’t. Otter was just—unlucky…”

Hearing the names of their friends, Fluttershy’s face contorted with sorrow as she frantically tried to wipe her tears away. “Twilight said the same thing, Applejack said the same thing too, same with Pinkie Pie and Rarity… and now you.” Her voice was a sad whisper, a stark contrast to her earlier outburst.

Then, suddenly, her sadness morphed into anger. “The newspaper calls it a twisted fate, Equestria doesn’t blame me, the world still sees me as a hoofballing legend! WHY DOES NOPONY BLAME ME!? ME!!!!!” Fluttershy screamed, her face inches from Rainbow’s, her fury tangible.

Taken aback, Rainbow Dash stumbled backward in shock, her heart racing as Fluttershy’s outburst filled the room. The sudden noise startled Pooch, who jumped off Fluttershy’s lap and scampered away. In a fit of rage, Fluttershy rose from her seat and hurled her still-filled cup of tea against the wall. The cup shattered upon impact, fragments scattering across the floor, mirroring the shattering tension in the room.

Rainbow Dash watched, heartbroken, as Fluttershy's anger dissolved into profound sorrow. Her sister's voice cracked under the weight of her confession, her admission raw and filled with self-blame.

"I ENDED MY FRIEND’S CAREER, I’M THE ONE WHO WENT IN FOR THE TACKLE WHEN I SHOULDN’T HAVE, I’M THE one who tore his ACL—me, it was all my fault… so why does no pony hate me?" Fluttershy's words tumbled out between sobs, each one echoing her deep guilt and unbearable pain.

As the last of her angry energy spent itself, Fluttershy's legs gave way, and she crumpled to her knees on the soft carpet. She leaned forward, clutching her chest as if trying to hold her breaking heart together, her other hand covering her mouth to stifle the sobs that shook her body.

Rainbow Dash felt a surge of protective instinct as she watched her sister collapse under the burden of her guilt. Without hesitation, she moved to Fluttershy’s side, kneeling down beside her. She wrapped her arms around Fluttershy in a firm, comforting embrace, her own eyes brimming with tears at the sight of her sister's pain.

As Rainbow Dash held Fluttershy close, the room was steeped in a somber silence punctuated only by the soft, heart-wrenching sobs that escaped Fluttershy's lips. Each sob was a reminder of the deep scars left by the incident, scars that had not healed, festering beneath the surface of her seemingly calm exterior.

Rainbow felt her sister's body tremble under her embrace, each shudder passing through Fluttershy like a cold wave, her grief raw and palpable. Fluttershy's tears soaked into Rainbow’s varsity jacket, each drop a testament to the sorrow that had been pent up for too long.

"Fluttershy, everyone knows you didn't mean to hurt him. You have to believe that," Rainbow murmured, her voice choked with emotion. Her words felt hollow in the face of such profound sadness, but she pressed on, desperate to reach her sister. "You’ve dedicated your life to helping others, to healing. You can't let this define you."

But Fluttershy seemed barely able to hear her. "How can I not?" she whispered through her tears, her voice barely audible. "Every time I close my eyes, I see that day, I see his pain. I hear the crowd, the gasps, the silence that followed... It haunts me, Rainbow. It's like I'm there, over and over again."

Her words trailed off into sobs once more, the sound echoing in the small room, filling it with a sorrow so thick it was almost tangible. Rainbow tightened her embrace, her own eyes now streaming with tears as she felt the depth of Fluttershy's despair.

Rainbow Dash's plea was laced with desperation and love, her tears mingling with Fluttershy's as they huddled together on the floor. "We love you, Fluttershy. Me, mom and dad, Twilight, Applejack, everypony, we all adore you. We all want you to be happy… So please, don’t let the past bring you down. Please," she sobbed, her voice cracking under the strain of her emotions.

But Fluttershy's response was hollow, devoid of hope, a stark contrast to the warmth and care in Rainbow's words. "I can’t… I hate myself too much," she murmured, her voice a chilling whisper that seemed to echo around the room. It was a confession of her deepest fears and darkest feelings, laid bare in the most vulnerable of moments.

The weight of her words hung heavy in the air, a suffocating blanket over the siblings. Rainbow felt a pang in her chest, sharper than any she had felt before. It was one thing to fight against tangible problems, to face adversaries that could be seen or challenges that could be overcome through action. But how could she fight the shadows that clung to Fluttershy's spirit? How could she lift the burden of self-loathing that had rooted so deeply in her sister's heart?

Rainbow tightened her hold, her embrace a silent vow of support, her presence a steadfast promise that she was there, no matter the depth of the darkness that threatened to swallow Fluttershy whole. "I'm here, Fluttershy. I’m not going anywhere. We’ll get through this together," she whispered, her voice firm despite the tears that continued to stream down her face.

Fluttershy's body was racked with sobs, each one a palpable release of the pain she had carried for so long. Rainbow Dash felt each sob as if it were her own, each tear a shared drop in the ocean of their combined sorrow. In that moment, nothing else mattered but the bond between them, the silent understanding that they would face the darkness together, no matter how daunting the journey might seem.