When her marefriend turns up covered in bruises after the changeling invasion, Cheerilee wonders if her marefriend is secretly a changeling.
A few months ago, Cherrilee's life changed for the better when she met a beautiful, funny, and intelligent mare in a Canterlot bar.
But that all changed when the Changelings attacked. Cherilee heard nothing from her marefriend for almost a whole week before she unexpectedly turned up on her doorstep, covered in bruises. While concerned, Cheerilee couldn't help but wonder, where did her bruises come from? Where had she been this last week? Eventually, Cheerilee couldn't help but consider...
Is my marefriend a Changeling?
Perhaps asking Twilight Sparkle for advice wasn't the best idea.
- Cover photo is AI generated -
Controversial yes, but I lack the skill to draw my own, and funds to request a drawing.
Life had been going well for Cheerilee recently. Sure, the current class of foals at school are a bit more rambunctious than usual, and she wasn’t sure which was worse, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, or Diamond Tiara. On one hoof, Diamon Tiara was a spoilt brat and was, testing at the best of times, but then there was the ever-growing list of situations the Cutie Mark Crusaders ended up creating. University didn’t teach her how to clean tree sap from the desks, floor, or ceiling, and then there was the love poison.
Cheerliee truly hadn’t been interested in finding a special some-pony at the time, but ever since she’d occasionally find herself wistfully daydreaming. It was always the little moments, like getting home from school, finding something amusing while marking school work, or cooking a meal, that Cheerliee thought, “Wouldn’t it be nice if somepony was here to share this with?” It was a painful irony that the CMC had chosen Big Mac, while she had always wanted to be with a pony who was larger than herself, she also knew that whoever she ended up with would be some pony to whom she could speak with. Sadly Big Mac was not much of a talker, but they had remained good friends, and the flirting between them was purely to make the CMC squirm, maybe if he had wings to hold her with.
So she made the very questionable decision of confiding in her sister, Berry Punch. Berries' advice had been both surprisingly helpful, and predictable. Predictably, since Berry had declared that they were going to a bar, helpful, because as Berry pointed out, “If there's no stallion in Ponyville to catch your eye, let's go to Canterlot!.” What Cheerliee hadn’t expected, was that Berry decided that that weekend would be the best time, after all, “Alcohol waits for no mare!”
And so it was that Cheerilee found herself in the last place she wanted to be at the weekend, sat alone at the bar of the ‘Wayfarers Shoe’. Loud ponies surrounded her, and her only company was a glass of cider since Berry Punch was currently in the midst of a drinking contest, though judging by the large stallion failing to remain on his hooves, Berry was winning.
’Why did I agree to this? Of course, Berry would get into a drinking contest, and I’ll be the one carrying her to our room no doubt.’
Taking several swigs to finish her current drink, Cheerilee slammed the glass down on the bar, she was about to order another, but another voice cut her off.
“Excuse me, Barkeeper? I would like a cider, Manehatten Orchard if you have it, and perhaps one for this mare if she does not mind.”
Blinking, Cheerilee looked at the pony who had ordered her a drink. A larger-than-average pegasus mare, though shorter than herself, she had gorgeous long pink hair, a snow-white coat, and gorgeous lavender eyes. To say she was stunning would be an understatement. The best response Cheerilee could manage was a muffled squeak, though she managed to nod her agreement to the drink.
“Then two Manehattens please,” said the mare. As the barkeeper went to prepare the drinks the pink-haired mare hopped onto the stool next to Cheerilee and smiled. With an impossibly warm smile the mare turned to Cheerilee, whatever the mare said was lost on her sadly, as she melted from the warmth the mare's smile exuded.
‘Hehe, she’s so pretty, maybe she mistook me for someone else, huh, is she talking? Why is her hoof there?’
Cheerilee followed the mare's hoof, which was waving in front of her. Up down left right left right then.
“Boop,” said the pink-haired mare, as her hoof gently booped Cherilee's nose.
“Ahh, oh sorry, I’m not swear I’m drunk! Err, I’m not drunk I swear! Sorry, I got lost in … thought, and err, I’m sorry, but I didn’t hear a thing you said, could you please start over?”
The mare retracted her hoof, and covered her mouth as she giggled, “I was asking if you wouldn’t mind telling me your name?”
“My name? Oh yes, my name is Cheerilee.”
“It's a pleasure to meet you Cheerilee, I hope you don’t mind me sitting here, is this seat taken?”
“Oh well …” Cheerilee looked for her sister, Berry was visibly showing signs of being tipsy now, the three stallions on the floor though, would definitely regret their decision in the morning, maybe the afternoon.
“No, its occupant is elsewhere.”
Following her eyes, the Pink-haired mare saw the spectacle her sister was creating, and silently let out an ‘ah’.
“I see, she seems to be having fun at least.”
Fortunately, it was at that moment that the barkeeper returned with the two bubbly ciders.
“Your ciders, that will be 5 bits.”
The mare produced 5 bits from a pouch hidden under a wing and thanked the barkeeper as he went to his next customer. After looking at the glass for a strangely long moment, she reached out with a wing and lifted the glass into the air, and waited for Cheerilee to do the same.
“To remembering in the morning, and the aspirin that will follow,” she said. The two clinked their ciders and took a long drink.
It was good, having only had Ponyville Apple Cider before, she was surprised that this drink was almost as good, the apple taste was lacking in comparison, but she enjoyed the fizziness of the drink more than she’d expected.
“I can almost smell the coffee, my sister won't be able to move until I leave a cup under her nose” said Cheerilee, “this is really nice thank you, but don’t tell anyone I drank it, if word gets out I drank cider that wasn’t Apple family I might lose my friends of family discount.”
“Then you can rest easy, this cider is still from the Apple family, it comes from a small orchard outside Manehatten that is exclusively used for cider, but this is the only bar in Canterlot that sells it.”
“Really? Well, I'm glad to hear I won’t have Applejack glaring at me in the street, but is this really the only place that sells it in Canterlot?”
“Sadly, other than the usually quiet atmosphere, it's why this is my favourite bar to visit.”
“Sorry about the drinking contest, I hope we haven’t put too much of a dampener on your night.”
“Not at all, I am glad she is having fun, I would not wish for things to be any other way, as long as there is no trouble, and besides, I seem to have lightened up your evening a little, so that is a win-win in my book.
Lightened up my evening? Cheerilee took a moment to reflect. She’d been alone for most of the evening and would have called it a complete disaster, if not for … oops.
“Sorry, erm, I don’t think I caught your name?”
Before the pink-haired mare could reply, the smell of alcohol enveloped Cheerilee’s senses, providing just enough warning to brace for a drunk mare to drape herself over her back.
“Cheerie *hick*, I’m sorry, but I may have drunk a bit toooo much, could, could you please get me back to the inn? I know where to go but I don’t seem to remember where I am.” Slurred Berry Punch.
Cheerilee sighed, but at least her sister hadn’t tried to get back on her own, “Of course Berry, sorry for leaving without finishing my drink, hopefully, we can speak more next time.”
As Cheerilee was half off her stool, with a mostly catatonic berry over her back, she froze.
’Next time? What do you mean next time!? You don’t even know her name, or live in Canterlot, how could there be a next time!?’
“Sure, how about two in weeks, about an hour after sunset?” What?
“Oh and my name is Sunny Skies, I look forward to seeing you again Cheerilee.”
“Yeah, see you then.”
The bell chimed behind Cheerilee as she left the Wayfarers Shoe, with the cold mountain air, and a snoring Berry Punch to keep her company, Cheerilee walked back to the Inn, asking herself a single question.
Rarity had been having a nice calm day. It started with a lie-in, followed by a spa session with Old Fluttershy, at the pegasus' insistence to make up for her behaviour after Iron Wills seminar followed by tea and a cake at Sugarcube Corner before she settled down to get some work done.
She had managed to make good progress, at least until she heard the bell of her store chime. Checking the time, she elected to wait a few moments before saying her signature greeting, it was probably Sweetie Belle returning from school, and it wasn’t long before her suspicion was confirmed.
“Rarity, I’m home.” Called Sweetie Belle. “But could you please come down? Miss Cheerilee is here, she wanted to speak to you about something.”
That was strange, if, no, when Sweetie Belle did something wrong at school, Miss Cheerilee usually sent a letter requesting a meeting at some point in the next few days, a home visit was practically unheard of.
“Oh course Sweetie” Rarity called back, “please ask Miss Cheerilee to take a seat, I'll be down as soon as I tie up my thread.”
Untangling herself from her work, and ensuring that her absence would cause no damage to the gown she was working on, Rarity made her way down the stairs to her foyer, where she was greeted by the pink teacher.
“Ah Miss Cheerilee, it’s a pleasure to see you, I do hope Sweetie and her friends haven’t been causing too much trouble at school. May I make you a tea?”
“Oh, yes please Rarity, but please, but I’m not a teacher outside school, so please call me Cheerilee.”
“Oh course Cheerilee, come this way, I’m certain I have some biscuits in the kitchen unless Sweetie and her friends found them yesterday.”
The pair made their way into the kitchen, Rarity igniting her horn to start the kettle, and Cheerilee sitting at the table.
“So, Cheerilee, is everything going well with Sweetie’s education?” Rarity asked as she gathered two mugs and a plate.
“Eeyup, Sweetie and her friends are all behaving, at least since, the incident.”
Rarity cringed, gossip about her former school friend and Applejack’s brother almost marrying one another had made the rumour mill a few times after Hearts and Hooves Day, though very few ponies were aware of how close the poison had been to becoming permanent. Deciding that something a little extra was needed, Rarity elected to use her fancier tea for this impromptu afternoon tea session, when her gaze spotted a brown bag she couldn’t remember leaving in her cupboard. Inspecting the bag, she found a familiar note.
‘In case of sudden dramatic emergencies - Pinkie’
… With snacks sorted, and the note discreetly discarded, Rarity joined Cheerilee at the table and levitated the teacups and a plate filled with white chocolate & strawberry cookies between them, after a few minutes, the kettle began to whistle. Several, silent minutes passed, while both mares ate cookies, while waiting for the tea to properly brew, without saying a word. After the tea had sufficiently brewed, Rarity poured them both a cup and decided to break the silence.
“Not that I have an issue with your visit darling, but if there's nothing wrong with Sweetie’s schooling, is there something I can do for you?” Rarity asked as she began adjusting her mane with a hoof.
As serenely as the princess herself, Cheerilee lifted the cup to her lips, and took a delicate sip of tea, with a content sigh, carefully replaced the cup onto its saucer and lunged for Rarities exposed hoof.
“PLEASE HELP ME!”
[]***********
Morning of the ‘Date’
It was a peaceful day in Ponyville, ponies were selling their goods in the market, birds tweeted their songs in the skies, and the smell of Pinkies baking radiated from Sugar Cube Corner, it was days like this that Twilight appreciated the change from city life when she bumped into a certain yellow pegasus.
“Hi, Fluttershy.”
“EEepp, oh h-hi Twilight, how are you today? If you don’t mind me asking.”
“I’m good thanks, how are you?”
“I’m fine, I think, but, have you spoken to Rarity recently?”
“Rarity? No, but I'm going to her boutique to deliver these apples she ordered from Applejack, apparently she didn’t collect them this morning. Is something the matter?” asked Twilight, as she moved to show the box of apples perched on her back.
“Well, you see, she cancelled our spa session this week, and I’ve tried to speak to her a few times, but I couldn’t find her, I’m err, just a bit concerned that, oh never mind, I’m just been foalish.”
“Are you worried that she might be avoiding you because of the ‘New Fluttershy’ thing?”
“Maybe.”
“I’m sure it has nothing to do with that, she probably just got a large order or something, come on, let's go pay her a visit.”
“If that's not too much trouble, thank you Twilight.”
Now with Fluttershy in tow, Twilight continued her journey to Carousel Boutique, however, when the pair arrived at the fashionista's residence, they discovered a sign on the door.
“Closed for urgent business, reopening after the weekend - Rarity.” Said Twilight, giving an experimental three knocks. “Rarity, it's Twilight, are you there?”
The sound of muffled magic emanated through the door as it opened slightly, however, the pony who emerged was not who they hoped to find.
“Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where everything is, errm, cheap, sleek, and magnetic.” Said, Sweetie Belle. Somewhere from inside the boutique, came the voice of Scooterloo “That's not it, clothes aren’t magnetic Sweetie.”
Forgetting the ponies at the door, Sweetie Belle turned around and shouted back “Well sorry Miss Fashionista, if you know what we’re meant to say why don’t you have a go!”
“Err, well …”
“Ahem,” interrupted Twilight, “Would you fillies know where Rarity is?”
“Oh, she went to Canterlot for the weekend, she didn’t say why though, just that I should remain out of trouble and I’d be staying at Appleblooms for the weekend.” Replied Sweetie Belle.
“Howdie!” Came the voice of Applebloom from somewhere inside.
“Oh, ok, thanks girls, but erm, what are you doing?” asked Fluttershy.
A scampering of hooves came thundering towards the door, which burst the rest of the way open to reveal the three fillies.
“Cutie Mark Crusader Fashionistas, Yeah!” “Cutie Mark Crusader Fashionistas, Yeah!” “Cutie Mark Crusader Fashionistas, Yeah!”
The Crusaders said in unison.
Twilight and Fluttershy shared a look, and silently nodded to one another, coming to a mutual agreement.
Twilight was the first to speak, “OK girls, just make sure you clean up after yourselves, and remember when Rarity comes back she won’t want to find a mess.”
“Yes Twilight.” “Yes Twilight.” “Yes Twilight.”
Green magic grasped the door, and slowly, and with notable strain on Sweetie Belle's part, closed, leaving the mares on the door stop.
Twilight blinked at the door, “Should we stop them?”
“I don’t think we could if we tried.”
“I’m feeling rather stressed out, would you like to join me for a spa session Fluttershy? I’m not Rarity, but I'm sure we can still have a nice time.”
“Certainly, if you’re ok with that, but, what about the apples?”
“Oh.” Said Twilight, as she looked at the box of forgotten apples on her back. The box shined in a lavender aura, as it began to float down to the doorstep. Stepping up to the door, Twilight gave two loud knocks, “Apple delivery, ok Fluttershy, close your eyes.”
“Close my eyes? Why would …”
Whatever Fluttershy said was interrupted by a bright flash of lavender and the mares were gone just as the door once again opened.
“Cool, apples!” said Applebloom.
“Aren’t you always around apples?” quipped Scooterloo.
“Yeah, but there weren’t any here before now.”
“Girls,” interrupted Sweetie Belle, “Do you think we can use them to make a new type of clothing?”
“We could be Apple Fashionistas!” Apple Bloom said with a smile.
“I guess,” Scooterloo said dejectedly, “we can’t exactly use the sowing machine anymore, so apples might work better.”
The three fillies looked at one another and cried in unison.
“Cutie Mark Crusader Apple clothiers, Yeah!” “Cutie Mark Crusader Apple clothers, Yeah!” “Cutie Mark Crusader Apple dressers, Yeah!”
***********
Meanwhile, in Canterlot
“Buur”
“Is everything alright Rarity?” Asked Cheerilee.
After the date, Cheerilee tried to ask her sister for some help regarding the coming date, however, the mare's best advice was to get very drunk, at least Berry admitted to not being good at dating, and that the advice probably wasn’t good. So she went to the next best pony she knew, Rarity. Since visiting Rarity at her Boutique, the two had rekindled their old friendship. Perhaps friendship was a strong word, but the two had been schoolmates once upon a time and had spent time together outside of school on occasion.
“Oh it's nothing Darling, but I just had a feeling of cold dread run up my body. You’d think that wouldn’t be possible in a hot tub.”
“Ah, I know that feeling, I get it every time I hear Sweetie and her friends shout that catchphrase of theirs.”
Rarity sighed, and said in a dejected tone “Cutie Mark Crudasers, walking disasters yeah.”
Cheerilee giggled into a muddy hoof, regardless of whatever happened with Sunny, she would hopefully keep her friendship with Rarity going. As she suspected, Rarity was indeed a pony who was interested in romance, and the white unicorn was more than eager to help when asked.
“Did Sweetie tell you that there is a list at school, specifically aimed at the Crusaders, to ban them from repeating ‘crusades’ they’ve tried to do?”
“She hasn’t, and I dread to ask how long it has gotten.”
“If you’d like, I can bring it over sometime this week.”
“One date at a time Cheery.”
“RARITY!”
“Hehe, sorry, I just couldn’t resist.”
Over the last two weeks, the pair spent a fair few evenings together, not just Rarity providing advice to the school teacher, but the two reconnecting, catching up over the years they’d been, mostly estranged. In the run-up to the date, Rarity even offered to come to Canterlot. As a result, Rarity and Cheerilee were now in the Canterlot Fancy Spa (owned by Fancy Pants) and were enjoying a soak in the mud baths. After all, being relaxed and not stressing one’s self into a neurotic mess was one of Rarity’s top tips.
The pair relaxed in the mud bath, listening to the humdrum of the busy Canterlot streets outside, and chatter from the other spa clients until Rarity broke the silence.
“I would love to see that list darling. We can not allow ourselves to drift apart again. Perhaps you’d like to join Fluttershy and I when we visit the Ponyville Spa?”
“That sounds great, count me in.”
***********
A few hours, a massage, and a manedoo later, Cheerilee bade Rarity goodbye as the two separated. Rarity went back to their room, and Cheerilee to the Wayfarers Shoe, hopefully where Sunny Skies would be waiting.
The walk to the pub seemed to go on for an eternity, each corner revealed another street that she hadn’t expected, and then another, and then Cheerilee came to a realisation.
“I’m lost.” Stated Cheerilee, coming to a halt. She looked around desperately for anything she recognised but quickly realised that she knew nothing about her environment. In her past trips to the city, she had either been with her sister, only required to retrace a route back to their lodgings once Berry had passed out, or, when she’d visited the city for a teacher training/ conference day, but on those occasions, she had been given directions on where to go from the station. Now, however, she was lost, in one of the largest cities of Equestria, and had no idea where her destination even was. So Cheerilee resorted to doing what she did best in these situations, running around in a panic until she found what she was looking for, in hindsight, it works a lot better finding a purse, or a foal hiding in the schoolhouse rather than a specific pub in a large city.
Shops became little more than blurred shapes, passing ponies no more than streaks of colour, as she desperately looked for anything that she could recognise, climbing ever higher up Mount Canter, and the heart of the city. Her hooves thundered as she rounded another corner, and straight into a pony, barreling them both over.
It was over, Cheerilee thought to herself, tears threatened to stream from her eyes, so she kept them closed, holding back the inevitable flood of tears. At least her landing had been soft. Cheerilee felt a pair of hooves and soft wings wrap around her, as a heavenly giggle whispered into her ear.
“I did not believe we would be head over hooves for one another so soon Cheerilee.”
She knew that voice, “Sunny!?” Cheerilee opened her eyes, only to see two large purple gazing back at her, only a few inches from her face.
“That's me! Oh, and while I don’t mind you using me as your personal hoof warmer, we might be arrested for public indecency if we stay like this.”
With Sunny’s wings and hooves releasing her, only then did Cheerilee take stock of her situation. She was on top of Sunny Skies, in the middle of a street, with several stunned ponies watching them. It didn’t help that one pegasus’s wings poofed open.
“Oh, I'm sorry, so sorry! Let me get up, are you ok? I didn’t mean to, but thank you, and did I say I'm sorry?” Cheerilee spluttered, as she practically leapt off of the pegasus.
“Don’t worry, I’m fine, If I can bounce off a mountain, being your landing mat will be no problem,” Sunny said, serenely, with each work, Cheerilee could feel her stress melting away.
But now that she had found her date, a new concern entered her brain, she’d been running around Canterlot, and had just taken a tumble, her coat was probably a mess, and her mane was definitely ruined. Could this be going any worse?
“Oh thank Celestia you’re alright, and again I’m sorry, I was trying to get to the Wayfarers, but when I realised I had no idea where I was going, or where I was, I, may have, kind of, panicked,” Cheerilee said, as she hung her head in embarrassment. “And I probably look like a disaster, I spent so long getting ready, I wanted to look my best for you, and then I go and knock you over and I’m making a fool of myself, an-”
Cheerilee was cut off, as a white feather pressed against her lips.
“I think, that we should find somewhere to sit, get a drink to calm your nerves, and perhaps a bite to eat. I happen to know a lovely little pub, it just so happens to sell a nice salad. Would you like to join me?”
Cheerilee smiled, as a single tear fell down her cheek, “Yes, I would love that!”
“Then follow me,” Sunny said walking in the direction Cheerilee came from.
Cheerilee was mesmerised by those swaying hips, soft and plush, with a cutie mark of a sun partially covered by a cloud on each. Shaking her head to get her mind out of the gutter, Cheerilee leapt after Sunny.
***********
Laying upon her bed for the night, Rarity flicked through the latest issue of Canter Fashion magazine, though she had to admit, this season’s fashion was merely slight adjustments to last spring's Manehatten fashion. She could probably capitalise on this with her own fashion line, after all, she’d already designed a few dresses in this style.
Looking out a window, the unicorn checked the moon to gauge the time, almost midnight. Rarity smiled to herself, if the date had lasted this long, then it must be going well. The sound of hooves walking up the stairs and towards her room reached Rarity's ears, which stopped once they reached her door, replaced by a very timid double knock. Igniting her horn, she raised the latch and opened the door to reveal a disaster of a pony.
“Hel … Oh, dear Celestia! Look at your coat! Look at your Mane! Good heavens darling come in and take a seat. Whatever happened to you? You look like you joined a rodeo.”
“Hehe, sorry, I forgot about that, I may have gotten a bit lost, and started running around Canterlot.” Replied Cheerilee perching herself next to Rarity.
“Oh darling I'm so sorry, please tell me you haven’t been searching for the inn all this time?”
“I haven’t, I actually ran into Sunny.”
“Thank goodness, not a complete disaster then.”
“I literally ran into Sunny.”
“Come again, darling?”
“I ran round a corner, and ran into her, barreled her over, tumbled around a bit, and landed on top of her.”
“...” Rarity stared at Cheerilee with a frozen expression.
“If it helps, she took it well.”
“...”
“She even wrapped me in her wings.”
“...”
“And when I was about to have a nervous breakdown, she calmed me down and made me laugh, before reminding me that we should probably break apart.”
“Cheeri?”
“Yes Rarity?”
“Have your mane and coat been in that state since you met your date?”
“Err, yes.”
With that admission, Rarity fainted.
“Oh, she didn’t shriek, guess Sunny was right.” Cheerilee smiled to herself. Losing a bet to the pegasus wasn’t too bad, after all, it just meant that she was paying for their next date.
***********
Midnight - Ponyville
Three shadows moved between the houses on Market Street, which led to Carousel Boutique. One darted from cover to cover, desperately trying to avoid being seen, the second seemingly melted from one shadow, and reappeared in another, and the third followed the others, but at a slow walk down the centre of the street.
“Errm, is this really necessary?” Asked the third shadow.
“YES,” the second shadow hissed. “We are on a secret mission, and cannot be seen by any pony, no one can know who we are number three.”
“Oh, ok.” The shadow said dejectedly.
“Hush girls.” Said the first Shadow. “Pi-”
“Number two” Interjected the second shadow.
“Number two … pointed out that we don’t want to raise suspicion, so we need to be stealthy, we both agreed this would be for the best after all Fl … Number three.”
“But isn’t this a bit unnecessary?” Replied number three.
“Of course not, If we fail, then when …”
“The target,” interrupted number two.
“When the target returns, she will surely find a mess, and if she discovers that we knew about it and did nothing, she’ll hate us, never talk to us again, Celestia will find out, declare that I'm a terrible friend, force me back to Canterlot, and send me to Magical Kindergarten so I can learn friendship from foal while Equestria falls because the elements of harmony can’t be used anymore.” Said number one, who was now almost hyperventilating.
Number three sighed, “Ok, let's keep going then.”
They’d tried to have a nice time at the Ponyville Spa, but number one had found the experience anything but relaxing, believing that leaving the CMC unsupervised would only make a mess of their friend's shop. She didn’t know how it escalated to this degree, it was becoming more akin to a break-in. She also didn’t know how *Redacted* got involved.
The three eventually made their way to Carasel Boutique, and with a flash of lavender light, they disappeared and reappeared inside the boutique.
“Oh, oh my.” Number one said as she bore witness to the disaster they found. It was going to be a long night.
Days turned into weeks, which eventually turned into four months of dating, and Cheerilee couldn’t be happier. While her weekdays had mostly stayed the same, though tea or a spa trip with Rarty had become a weekly feature, her weekends were by far the highlight. Not every weekend of course, but most would involve Cheerilee traveling to Canterlot to visit Sunny Skies. At least that was all she would admit had changed, if you asked Derpy, who squealed for joy the loudest when the morning's post arrived, that answer had recently changed.
At least, Cheerilees was happy, while the two had been in regular contact, and she had been enjoying the time they shared, she had begun to wonder what exactly they were, while they were certainly a little bit past regular friendship, neither of them had brought the matter of commitment.
However, Cheerilee hadn’t heard from Sunny in over a week, and while Sunny’s last letter apologised that she’d be busy till the weekend, and probably wouldn’t have time to write, Cheerilee had begun to worry, especially after she heard about the Changeling attack. That was almost a week ago, yet Cheerilee still hadn’t heard from the mare who made her heartache.
She’d confided in Rarity during their weekly meet-up, a quiet tea party due to Rarity’s backlog of work, but Cheerilee was shocked to hear the unicorn, along with her friends had also been in Canterlot during the invasion, the unicorn had even seen their leader, Queen Crysalis banished from the city along with her army by Princess Cadenza and Prince Consort Shining Armors magic. Eventually, Cheerilee asked the question that had been worming at the back of her mind.
“Rarity, di … Did anypony … get seriously h-hurt during the invasion?”
“I’m afraid so darling, certainly among the guard, but the fighting was in the city as well, I heard that the castle infirmary was opened up to the public when the hospitals began to overfill.”
“And, was there any …” Cheerilee couldn’t finish her sentence, perhaps if she didn’t ask, it wouldn’t become a reality, perhaps Shrodingneigh’s cat would allow both to exist as long as she didn’t find out.
“The changelings wanted to capture as many ponies as possible, they needed us alive I believe, but I did note the Canter Bugle’s headline claimed some had occurred after the weekend.”
And there it was, it was only a possibility of course, but rational thought didn’t listen to reason like that. The rest of the tea party passed in relative silence, Rarity not managing to find the words of comfort, or successfully rekindle the conversation, and Cheerilee too deep in thought to manage it herself. After a pensive walk home, and after a sleepless night, Cheerilee went to work pretending everything was alright, at least that’s what she told the foals who asked if she was alright, fortunately, it had been the last school day before the weekend.
Cheerilee decided to take the long way home after school, passing through the market for some fresh vegetables, preparing a proper meal was beyond her ability that night and this was better than ordering takeout. The only stop she visited was Sugarcube Corner, and it wasn’t long until she opened the gate leading to her front door with a bag of Pinkies muffins dangling in her mouth. Salad along with two ice cream cupcakes might not be the best dinner, but Pinkie added two Banana Cupcakes as well, while she didn’t argue against the party mare much, she couldn’t help but wonder which Sunny would have preferred, hopefully, the banana would be healthy enough to justify calling them breakfast.
Cheerilee walked up the path to her house in a daze, she didn’t even notice the pony who was currently sitting patiently to the side of the door. It wasn’t until Cheerilee opened the door that she was startled by a quiet cough.
“Hello Cheerilee, h-how are you?”
That voice.
“I-I know I haven’t written to you in a while.”
Cheerilee looked to her side, and currently raising to her hooves, all be it slowly, was Sunny Skies.
“And I am so very sorry- “
The muffin bag began falling to the ground, forgotten as Cheerilee’s mouth was left agape at the unexpected visitor.
“It’s just-”
Sunny was cut off as a fuchsia blur dove into her, by the time the muffins hit the floor, Sunny found herself once again, pinned to the floor by the Earth Pony.
“Oh, Sunny! You're alive!” Cheerilee squealed as she wrapped Sunny in a tight hug.
*Hiiiisss* “Ow, not so hard please, I seem to be rather tender”
Realising she was hurting the pegasus, Cheerilee immediately let go and jumped several hoof lengths away, “Oh I’m so sorry.” With the revelation that Sunny was hurt, she took a look over the mare.
Sunny Days' entire coat seemed to be dishevelled as if it hadn’t been brushed in several days, her right wing seemed to have fewer feathers than her left wing, though both her wings seemed to be notably less fluffy than usual, and in desperate need of preening. The worst damage Cheerilee could see was to Sunny’s mane, in patches it seemed to be slightly shorter, notably more split ends, though that paled compared to what she could hear, it was fain, but years as a school teacher trying to pick up on whispered conversations picked up on Sunny’s breathing, it was faint, but the pegasus was wheezing as she breathed.
“By Celestia, Sunny what happened to you?”
Instead of answering, Sunny blushed and averted her eyes, she began to shift uneasily and became very interested in her hooves, Cheerilee couldn’t help but think of the CMC after one of their crusades, the look of a very guilty pony.
“Well, the thing is … The tru … You see …” Sunny tried to speak, but couldn’t find the words she was looking for, before taking a deep breath “I’ve been … busy?” Sunny said, flashing a nervous smile.
Years of teaching steeled resolve and hardened her response. Ponies spoke of Fluttershy’s “The Stare” however the glare of a school teacher who knew you weren’t speaking the truth could get even the most stubborn of foals to speak, Sunny faired no better.
“I may have been attacked during the Canterlot invasion.” Said a defeated Sunny.
“And the doctors let you walk around in your condition?”
With a nervous smile, Sunny replied “They didn’t stop me walking around like this.”
Cheerilee doubled down on her glare, “And what DID the doctor say?”
“Well, erm, I may have … not asked one.”
An eerie silence filled the porch of Cheerilees house, as neither mare wanted to disrupt the moment, but Sunny continued, crumbling under the pressure of Cheerilee’s disapproving stare.
“Everyone was busy after the attack, at the time, I honestly didn’t think I was too bad, so I never asked a doctor.”
“But you’re a mess! How has no pony told you to see a doctor!”
Sunny nervously fluttered her wings, “Well, I guess, no one noticed?”
“Oh Sunny, I'm so sorry, but what are you doing here? You should be in bed resting!”
“Well, that's not an option right now, I was sort of kicked out, but I’ll be able to go back in a few days, so, I was just wondering, if I could maybe stay here for the weekend?” Sunny asked nervously,
“Oh, of course, come in, let's get you inside,” Cheerilee said.
She moved aside and ushered Sunny inside. As the pegasus entered, she began to look around, almost in awe, Cheerilee couldn’t help but be reminded of the foals who entered her schoolhouse for the first time, seeing the fascination in the pegasus’s eyes almost made her laugh.
“Get settled on the couch, I’ll get a fire and kettle going, I’m assuming you’d like some tea?” Cheerilee said as she trotted past Sunny, making her way to the kitchen.
“Oh err, if you don’t mind, I would love some.”
With a task in mind, Cheerilee set about preparing a pot of tea and some biscuits, though she needn’t have bothered, by the time she returned to the living room, Sunny Skies was fast asleep, snoring away, seemingly without a care in the world.
The sight was adorable, and while Cheerilee wished she could take a picture of how cute the mare was being, she also noticed, just how tired Sunny looked.
***********
As Sunny Skies stirred awake, she was able to gather a few things, first, everything hurt, while nothing too new, her terrible sleeping position had not helped, and she could also smell something sweet in the air, how long had it been since she had woken up to the scent of brewing tea?
Opening her eyes, she began to piece together why she had allowed herself to sleep in such a bad position, she was in a house she’d never seen before, and while the blanket was slightly unexpected, it was by no means unwelcome. Two distinct sounds filled the room, the most notable was the crackly of an open fire, which also had a kettle resting above it, the second noise came from a pony who had taken more of her thoughts as of late than she would admit. Scratching away at a pile of papers, was Cheerilee, oblivious to the now awake Sunny Skies.
Looking out the window, Sunny saw that her namesake had begun to set, last she remembered it was late afternoon, had she really slept for that long? But who could blame her, she had been stretched far too thin following the aftermath of Chrysalis’s failed invasion, foolish question, she could write a list of who could and would blame her, she truly didn’t deserve to be resting in such a tranquil space.
Turning her attention back to Cheerilee, Sunny noticed that the schoolteacher was currently glaring holes into a piece of work, she even began to emit a disgruntled growl as she turned her head from side to side, attempting to understand what was currently in front of her. It was just too cute a moment, and before she knew it, Sunny had begun to giggle.
Startled by the noise, Cheerilee almost jumped out of her coat as she spun to look at the now-awake Pegasus.
“Sorry to disturb you, but has anyone told you how adorable you are when you’re trying to work something out?” Said Sunny.
Realising that she’d been caught in one of her more private habits, Cheerilee spluttered as she tried to compose herself, she’d almost succeeded too, but Sunny thought to herself ‘Where would be the fun in that?’
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this flustered, would you like me to close my eyes so you can compose yourself?”
Taken aback, Cheerilee blushed and sat up straight in shock. She was about to finally retort, but despite Sunny’s raised hoof, Cheerilee could still see the ends of a large grin peeping out from either side of the hoof, so instead, she decided that remain silent, hoping she wouldn’t encourage the pegasus to continue her teasing.
Dashing the School mare’s hopes to retain her dignity, Sunny continued, “Now you’re pouting, you’re so cute, you’ve set my heart a flutter Cheeri.”
“Sunny” Whined Cheerilee who had turned a bright red in embarrassment, “How long have you been awake?”
“Not long enough, but not long. Maybe a minute.”
Cheerilee grumbled in embarrassment, looking at anything else but the pegasus, when her eyes set upon the kettle she perked up.
“I’ve been keeping some tea brewing, it might be a little strong, but nothing some milk and sugar won't fix. Would you like some?”
“Yes please, I’d love some.”
Watching the earth pony prepare some tea, Sunny couldn’t help but feel melancholic, if only she could stay like this forever, but things had to change, she couldn’t keep her secret much longer. The only question was, whether Cheerilee would forgive her.
***********
The rest of the evening went by with small talk, salad, cupcakes and snuggles on the couch. After a while, Sunny even offered to help Cheerilee with her marking. Much to Cheerilee’s surprise, Sunny was a great help, they even had a chuckle together as they came across the works of the CMC, it was a details report of a recent ‘crusade’ as they called it, an adventure to find there cutie marks. Inevitably, Sunny made the mistake of asking where they’d come up with the idea of coating a boutique in apple sauce and tree sap, the pegasus believed that the report was a work of fiction, with clarification, and a long night of explaining the true events that followed the CMC.
Eventually, Cheerilee excused herself, it was late after all, not wanting to throw the pegasus out into the night, she let Sunny settle down for a night on the couch. As Cheerilee climbed the stairs to her room, she couldn’t help thinking to herself.
‘I never thought Sunny would be so good at looking over schoolwork, she might even be a bit better than me, could she work with kids? Does she even work?’
It was as Cheerilee got to her bed that she thought back over her letters and dates with Sunny. Each a beloved and cherished memory, but she realised that each time she’d tried to learn more about the pegasus, Sunny had managed to deflect the conversation. Crawling into her duvet, she could only think of one thing.
Night gave way to morning, and Cheerilee decided to get out of bed along with the rising sun. Normally she’d enjoy a sleep-in on a weekend, but too many thoughts had plagued her during the night to achieve any meaningful sleep. At least she was the only one who couldn’t sleep, as Cheerilee descended the stairs, she discovered that Sunny Skies was not only still on the sofa, but was sprawled out haphazardly, and snoring so loud the school teacher was surprised she hadn’t heard the snores during the night.
Collecting the blanket which Sunny discarded at some point during the night, Cheerilee made her way into the kitchen, as a school teacher, she knew the perfect remedy to late nights with next to no sleep, usually due to preparing lessons or marking work till the sun rose, but a coffee and some breakfast would work just as well now. One fresh pot of coffee, a blanket added to the laundry pile, and some porridge later, Cheerilee felt much more refreshed, she’d even come to the revelation that just because she didn’t know much about Sunny now, it didn’t mean she didn’t love spending time with the pegasus, and if she was staying here for at least another night, then Cheerilee had plenty of time to weasel as much information out of her as she desired, maybe a trip to the spa would help.
It was when Cheerilee was returning the oats to the pantry that she noticed a problem, she had barely enough food to feed a single pony, and while Sunny didn’t usually eat large amounts on their dates, Cheerilee wouldn’t dare allow any guest to subsist on basic hay, oats, and leftover carrots. Popping her head into the living room, she confirmed that Sunny was not only still asleep but had seemingly attempted to crawl towards the kitchen in her sleep, half fell off the sofa and decided to forgo further movement in favour of more sleep. How could the mare sleep through that? Delicately, Cheerilee moved to Sunny’s side and lifted the pegasus back onto the couch, despite how amusing a reaction Sunny would give, and how much Cheerilee wanted to get a little bit of revenge for last night's teasing, now would probably be the best time to do some shopping.
After leaving a brief note for Sunny, explaining where she’d be going and telling the pegasus to help herself to food and drink, Cheerilee set out for Ponyville market. The fresh air hit her like an out-of-control cart, and Cheerilee could feel her body crying out to go back inside, curl up in bed and sleep the day away, but then who would sort out food for the day? There was no way she could expect Sunny to do her shopping, so, taking a deep breath, Cheerilee forced one hoof in front of the other.
After what felt like an eternity, and a very hard-fought battle not to venture into Quils and Sofas for a nap, Cheerilee managed to get to the market, yet, the stalls were vacant, produce lay prepared to be sold, but neither shopper nor shopkeeper could be found, perhaps the CMC had done something again?
The sound of galloping hooves from behind her grabbed Cheerilees attention. As she spun around, Cheerilee saw Lily, one of the flower mares, running towards the town hall. Letting curiosity get the better of her, Cheerilee followed along.
As she got nearer to the town hall, Cheerilee could hear an ever-increasing murmur of chatter from a large group of ponies, as she finally arrived, to her shock, it seemed that it wasn’t just a large group of ponies who had gathered, but almost the entirety of Ponyville was currently stood before a stage that had been erected. To her knowledge, she wasn’t aware of any announcements or meetings, but judging from the anxiety that almost permeated the crowd, something had everyone on edge.
Cheerilee wouldn’t have to wait long for the answer, as Mayor Mare trotted to the centre of the stage, signalling everypony to be quiet.
“Greetings everypony. In response to growing concerns about the Changelings, I have arranged a presentation covering all the questions submitted to the Town Hall over the last week. After the presentation, there will also be a question-and-answer session. Now if you could all please give your attention to Princess Celestia’s personal student, Twilight Sparkle.”
Murmurs began up again as the local librarian took to the stage.
“Good morning everypony, thank you all for gathering so early today, first a message from Pinkie Pie, the “Post presentation distraction from Changelings party” is taking place in between Sugar Cube Corner and Bonbon’s Sweet Shoppe once the presentation finishes.”
“Now onto the presentation, as Mayor Mare said, I will be covering everything you need to be aware of now that we are of the Changelings, then I’ll answer the questions that have been submitted, but not covered yet, and finally answer any further concerns. Sadly, the Royal Guard believe that while Equestria is not at risk of a second Changeling attack any time soon, some Changelings might still remain.”
The Changelings are still a problem? But if they were defeated, why are they still a threat?
“What we know about changelings is that they are a race that feeds primarily, if not entirely on love. From what was learnt from Queen Chrysalis, Changelings can use magic to impersonate a pony whom you love, and feast on your love for that pony.”
They... feast on love? I knew that the Changelings needed Ponies, but if they could just pretend to be someone we cared about, how much do we even need to love a pony for them to eat that love? Would I even realise if someone I knew had been replaced? I would have noticed if one of the students had acted differently, and surely Rarity, as one of Twilight's friends was safe, but what about Sunny Skies? I barely even know her.
“As for how to tell if a pony has been replaced by a Changeling, there isn’t any clear sign, but a Changeling can only mimic the appearance and voice of a pony, they do not seem capable of mimicking their personality and memories, so it should be noticeable if a pony has been replaced.”
Should be easy, she says, but what about if you don’t know much about them? I don't think Sunny has ever been to Ponyville!
“It’s also believed that the Changelings may have been preparing for the invasion over the last few months -”
Months? But, then…
“- So it's not beyond the realm of possibility that a pony met over the last few months could, in fact, be a Changeling infiltrator.”
Could she… have been… a Changeling all along?
Cheerilee lost focus on the presentation, as the world around her began to fade away and anything said by Twilight became little more than a fuzzy drone. Memory after memory began to flash before her eyes, how Sunny appeared out of almost nowhere, had she been easy because of how desperate and sad she was when they met? Conversation after conversation, Cheerilee always leading, and while Sunny would speak about the goings on in Canterlot, it was always about groups, or events, never about herself.
An uneasy confusion rattled Cheerilee like too many Ciders to recover after a parent's evening, she needed to focus, to calm down, maybe Twilight would have something that would prove Sunny was innocent, it could all just be a misunderstanding, right?
“... The Changelings can be violent, so the Royal Guard does not want any pony to act on their own. So if you believe you might have found a Changeling, or believe some pony you know is under their control, please speak to one of the colts at the Ponyville guard station, or myself if I'm around. Even if all you have is a suspicion, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Now, onto the submitted questions, no, Changelings do not have hands, in fact…”
***********
The rest of the presentation went on much the same, Twilight would answer a question and sometimes divert into some other piece of information, however, nothing helped her current situation. She currently had a pony… hopefully, a pony sleeping in her house, whom she had grown to care deeply for over the last few months, a pony… Or creature she knew nothing about.
After what felt like an eternity, Twilight finally brought the presentation to a close, and the other ponies began to journey to Pinkie’s post-presentation party. Cheerilee hadn’t asked any questions during the presentation, but now that she could speak privately to Twilight, she could ask for her advice without creating a panicked mob.
“Hello, Miss Sparkle?”
“Hmm? Oh Miss Cheerilee, is everything ok?”
“Yes, or at least I hope so.” Said Cheerilee, she knew what she wanted to say, but, why was she suddenly so hesitant to simply say that she had a... Had a… Might have a Changeling in her house
“Theirs this pony, Sunny Skies, I met a few months ago…” And it’s been wonderful.
“...And while we’ve spent a lot of time together…” Was this right? It’s not like I ever pressed Sunny for information.
“...She suddenly went quiet, a few days before the invasion, she said she’d be busy that weekend…” She lives in Canterlot, who wasn’t busy that weekend?
“...And afterwards, I didn’t hear from her at all, but she suddenly showed up last night, she was a bit worse for wear…” Maybe Twilight could make sure she wasn’t seriously injured, maybe this would be good for Sunny?
“... I was wondering what you thought.”
Twilight pondered for a few seconds, but with a steeled expression gave her reply, “It’s certainly possible that she may be a Changeling, does anyone else in Ponyville know her?”
“No, not that I’m aware of.” She never even talked about friends in Canterlot, I don’t even know if she has any family.
“Hmm, could you describe her?”
“She is a pegasi, her coat is white, and she has a pink mane.”
Memories of last night flashed through her mind, resting under a heavenly wing, pressed against her coat, talking about nothing of worth. She didn’t even remember what they talked about, sure they spoke about Cheerilee’s school work, but everything else just faded from her mind, but she was happy. In those quiet moments, she had spent time with a pony and was content, and then there was Sunny’s laugh, so pure and free. What if, she was making a mistake? Did it matter if Sunny wasn’t a pony? Last night had been real after all, it couldn’t have been an act, it had been a perfect night with the pony… creature she…
“Her cutie mark is that of a sun, partially covered by a cloud,” Cheerilee said on autopilot.
The one I love! But if she is a Changeling, then Twilight is going to catch her, and even if she is a Changeling, that doesn't mean everything was a lie. I don’t want it to be a lie, I can’t let it be a lie, even if she’s a Changeling, I love her!
“Thanks, Cheerilee, do you know where I might be able to find her? I’ll gather AJ and Rainbow Dash so we can ask a few questions.”
“She went out for a walk, she should be coming back from Whitetail Woods soon.” Cheerilee lied. I can’t let them find her!
***********
As soon as Twilight was out of sight, Cheerilee raced back to her home, hopefully, she’d have enough time to fix her mistake, it would take some time for Twilight to gather her friends, and if they went towards Whitetail Woods, that should give Sunny a chance to make her escape.
Finally, she arrived at the door to her home, and without slowing, shoulder barged her way into the house.
Panting heavily, Cheerilee stood inside her house, looking for any sign of Sunny Skies, but was greeted by a living room devoid of any creature, however, she could smell something. Her ears twitched as she began to hear something, something sizzling, and something that smelt amazing! A beautiful aroma of butter and cinnamon goodness wafted in from the kitchen, and as Cheerilee took a step towards the smell, a smiling face appeared around the kitchen doorway.
“Hello Cheeri, I hope you don’t mind, but your note said I could help myself, so I made some pancakes. If you’re… Is everything alright Cheerilee?” asked a now perplexed Sunny Skies.
“Sunny I’m sorry Ididsomethingstupid andnowsomeponiesarecoming andIloveyou andIknowIdon’tknowanythingaboutyoubutthatdoesn’tmatter Ican’tletthemhave yousopleaseyouhavetorunbeforetheygethere!” Cheerilee blurted out as she closed the distance between her and Sunny Skies.
The words of the borderline hysterical schoolmare took aback Sunny.
“You love me?”
“YES! And I’m sorry I screwed everything up, but I don’t care that you’re a changeling so please, you need to escape before she gets here!”
Sunny blinked back at Cheerilee, turned and walked back into the kitchen, as Cheerilee followed her inside, she discovered the pegasus had returned to the stove and was removing a pan from the flame. Pancakes now safe from burning, Sunny walked to the table and sat down, with a wing she gestured towards the opposite chair, “Ok, I think we need to talk.”
Caught off guard, Cheerilee found herself walking to the table, and sitting down.
“Ok, could you please repeat what you said, I heard a few things that I’d like to be sure I heard correctly before I react.” Said Sunny calmly.
Where do I even start
“I made a mistake, there was a presentation in town, it was about the Changelings, and I realised that everything said, matched our relationship. We met around the time the Changelings started moving into Canterlot, you avoid telling me anything about yourself and just look at you, you're a mess! There is no way any pony would have allowed you to walk around in your state. I’m no doctor but I'm sure your wing should be in a sling at least”
Sunny looked like she was about to interrupt, but when Cheerilee mentioned that she’d avoided talking about herself, Sunny cringed and simply listened as the earth pony continued.
“So I told this unicorn that I thought you might be a Changeling, but I began to realise that, even if you aren’t the pony you’ve said you are, I’ve loved the time we spent together, I get so nervous waiting for your next letter, and to see you again, and not knowing what happened to you this last week has been unbearable. So, I don’t care if you’re a Changeling, I won’t let them harm you, because I love you.”
Silence fell over the pair, as Cheerilee collected herself after pouring her heart out, she focused on Sunny to try and read her reaction. Sunny’s eyes were wide in shock, and while a hoof was hiding the fact her mouth was agape, she did not manage to prevent her wings from shooting out in shock.
After a few moments, Sunny sighed, “I guess I owe you an apology and an explanation.” Her ears began to twitch, and pivoted towards the front door, “But first, I should inform your friends that you are safe.”
With that, Sunny left the kitchen, it was only then that Cheerilee began to hear the sound of galloping hooves… Twilight was here!
Cheerilee scrambled to her hooves and darted towards the door, but it was too late, stranding in the doorway was Twilight Sparkle, with Applejack and Rainbow Dash with her, and was that Rarity hiding behind them?
“Good morning, would you be Sunny Skies?” Asked Twilight.
“Good morning to you too, and yes, can I help you?” Replied Sunny Skies.
“My name is Twilight Sparkle, and If you don’t mind, we have reason to suspect you may be a Changeling, would you allow me to perform a simple magical scan to determine whether you are a pony or not?”
“A magical scan?”
“Yes, I'll be using an alignment variance scan. You see, alteration magic can be detected by scanning the variance between the target's body and the body their mana depicts they should have. Its main use is to test for magical viruses, but Changeling magic can be detected using the same methods.”
“I see, but if I had some other form of alteration magic on me, wouldn’t that corrupt your findings?”
“Oh no, the date produced from Changeling magic is rather unique, I would even know if the target had a Changeling spell and an alteration enchantment. You see-”
“AHEM” Coughed Rainbow Dash who was glaring at the unicorn.
“Oh, sorry, could I cast the spell Miss Skies?”
Every pony looked towards Sunny. Applejack and Rainbow Dash looked like they were about to pounce on her, yet Twilight was calmly waiting for an answer, while Rarity was cowering behind Applejack.
“Of course, I’d be interested to hear what you find.” Said Sunny.
There it is, it’s all over, I'm sorry Sunny
Twilight closed her eyes, and a lavender light began to emanate from her horn simultaneously, a slight lavender sheen coalesced Sunny’s coat. Seconds passed, with only the dull whine of magic filling the air, every pony held their breath, waiting on Twilight's verdict.
“Hu, that's odd.” Said Twilight, “There is definitely alteration magic emanating from Miss Skies.”
Rarity gasped, but before Rainbow Dash and Applejack could pounce, Twilight continued, “However it’s not Changeling in origin, though neither is it unicorn, I've never seen an enchantment structure like this before, while I can see similar markings to unicorn magic, there are several other elements that I can’t identify, this is amazing, could you please tell me more about the spell miss Skies?”
“Certainly, however, I believe Cheerilee deserves an explanation first. How about this, try to figure out what you can, and tomorrow I’ll provide a full explanation, unless you can figure it all out of course.”
Twilight beamed, “Oh a challenge! You're on, I’ll work on it out and see you tomorrow to see how far off I am, thanks Sunny bye every pony!”
With a woosh, Twilight had galloped from the scene before any pony knew what was happening, making a B-line to her library.
With the local “Changeling expert” gone, that left Cheerilee, Sunny Skies, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity standing around awkwardly.
“Ahem” Coughed Rarity, drawing everyponies attention. “I do believe we have determined that there are no Changelings here girls, so how about we leave and allow Cheerilee and Sunny Skies to talk, pleasure to meet you by the way Miss Skies, I do hope we get the chance to get to know one another.”
And with that, Rarity turned and walked away. Applejack and Rainbow Dash gave each other a look, but after giving Cheerilee and Sunny Skies a nervous wave, they both chased after Rarity.
Cheerilee was stunned, she’d almost set four ponies on the pony she had been dating, yet Sunny had calmly dealt with the situation, but why wouldn’t she? She was innocent after all.
With a sigh, Sunny closed the door and made her way to the sofa.
“I think, we need to talk.”
And there it was Cheerilee thought to herself, she had been short-sighted, foolish, and an altogether terrible pony. Sunny had journeyed here battered and bruised, and Cheerilee had accused her of being a Changeling.
“I think I’m falling in love with you too.” Confessed Sunny Skies.
“Eh?” Cheerilee replied with all the grace of a drunken Pinkie Pie.
“I’m falling in love with you, but also, you’re not wrong, I have been lying about who I am.”
“Wh-What do you mean lying?”
Sunny gestured with a wing for Cheerilee to sit on the sofa, which she did without another word. Minutes passed before Sunny spoke again.
“I’m not Sunny Skies, nor is there a Sunny Skies as far as I'm aware.”
“But, they, you…”
“Changelings are not the only creatures who can change their appearance with magic,” interrupted Sunny, her eyes looking down at her hooves. “Had I appeared in my true form, I doubt we would have become friends, let alone…”
Cheerilee was confused, it made no sense, yet it also made all the sense in the world, but she needed to know more.
“Why?”
“Thats… Well, like I said-”
“No, I mean, why me?” Startled, Sunny turned to look at Cheerilee, yet the school mare continued. “Why did you choose to speak to me? Continue seeing me? Even visit me while… aren’t you hurt?”
“I’m not as injured as I look, though I don’t think I should be flying around anytime soon, mostly I just ache. As for why I spoke to you, I saw somepony else who was lonely, I had intended to spend a night relaxing as Sunny Skies, to drown my loneliness in cider for a single night, but then you asked to meet me again, and I thought, just one more day couldn’t hurt, but I couldn’t stop.”
“So, you enjoyed being Sunny?”
“No, yes. I hate myself for lying to you, but I couldn’t stay away, and I feared if you knew what I really was, that I’d lose you, but when my sister found out what I've been doing, she… she kicked me out, until I spoke to you, properly.”
“I see, I didn’t know you had a sister. How much of Sunny is real? I mean, I know Sunny isn’t real, but was everything an act, or is the pony I got to know over the last few months, the real you?”
The pair looked into one another's eyes, but within moments, Sunny flinched and returned her gaze to her hooves.
“I don’t know, it’s complicated, as Sunny I'm nothing like who I am every day, but at the same time..” Sunny took in a deep breath and once again looked Cheerilee in the eye, steeling herself, she continued. “As Sunny, I’m free of who I need to be, of who I’m expected to be, when I’m with you, I’m the pony I wish I could be. I know it sounds silly, but, I-I can show you, who I really am, you deserve to know, and whatever you decide, that's fine with me, I’ll accept it! If you never want to see or hear from me again I promise I’ll never come near Ponyville, but… If you’d be prepared to give me another chance, it would mean so much to me.”
It was Cheerilee’s time to break eye contact this time, this was so much to take in. One on hoof, if… whoever this mare was, (if she even was a mare) was sincere, then the only thing that ‘Sunny’ lied about was her name and appearance. On the other hoof, what if Sunny was secretly something like Discord? What if Sunny had been Discord, could she bring herself to forgive the Draconequus for making her teach an assortment of sapient fruits how to tap dance?
Ok, that was silly, after all the times they’d spent together, Cheerilee didn’t believe those feelings were lies, and if she loved Sunny for that, then surely she could love another pony… or creature.
“I would like to see, who you really are, please,” Cheerilee said slowly.
“Ok, you might want to close your eyes first, unraveling the spell causes me to shine rather brightly. I’ve looked into trying to reduce it but -”
Sunny was interrupted as a pair of lips met her own in a quick kiss.
“I love you, but I want to meet the real you.”
“Ok.”
As Cheerilee closed her eyes, Sunny began to glow, brighter and brighter. Outside, ponies were surprised at the sudden light show emanating from the school mare’s house, but quickly went back to their own business, it wasn’t Tuesday after all.
As the light died down, Cheerilee gingerly opened her eyes and looked upon the pony who now sat beside her.
“Oh, oh my… you”.
***********
“I’m telling you Rarity, this Sunny Skies must know a genius, I’ve never seen such spellwork!” Said Twilight Sparkle. The unicorn had been working hard since her encounter with the pegasus, trying to unravel the mysteries of the alteration enchantment on the pegasus, but she just couldn’t unravel the core aspect of the spell, she didn’t understand how, or what it was even doing! So, as agreed, she was going back to the source for the much-needed knowledge.
“Darling, please, the only ponies awake right now are us, the Apples and Princess Celestia. Can’t we wait just a few hours, we don’t want to wake them up after all.” Pleaded Rarity. The fashionista also had a sleepless night, though her insomnia stemmed from anxiety regarding her friend rather than the intricacies of an unknown spell, she thought that an early morning walk, followed by a cheeky slice of cake at Sugar Cube Corner would help soothe her nerves, at least until she could pay the ‘hopefully a couple’, a visit… at least that had been her plan until she encountered Twilight.
“Of course, you can go back to your walk, and Cheerilee can sleep in, but Sunny promised me answers, and I’m going to get them Rarity! This spellwork is like nothing I’ve ever seen, I.MUST.HAVE.THE.ANSWER!”
Rarity gulped, she’d seen Twilight like this exactly once, what she, the other girls… and most of Ponyville called… Lesson Zero.
“Ok Twilight, we can see if they are awake, however, if we don’t get an answer, we are going to have to come back later.”
A few more hairs sprang free of Twilight's already messy mane, “Fine, but no more than 1 hour!”
As they finally arrived at Cheerilee’s house, Twilight teleported to the front door, and knocked, hard for several seconds.
***********
Something made noise.
It was an annoying noise, because it was loud, and demanded attention she didn’t want to give.
In the back of her head, something said she should do… something, but she couldn't think what that was. It didn’t matter though, she was comfortable, behind her, was a warm, comfortable thing, which had wrapped her in heavenly niceness. The loud thing would go away eventually.
She groaned, the warmth around her had begun to pull away, and where comfortable thing had been, had now been replaced with a horrible cold void. Life was cruel.
Warmth enveloped her, it wasn’t as nice as the comfy thing, but it wasn’t bad. As she began to feel weightless, and the sensation of being moved registered in her brain, she considered opening her eyes, but then she felt herself being draped back onto the comfy thing, so life was good again.
The comfy was moving, it was slightly annoying, but it was still comfy, so she didn’t care. She also didn’t care when it started walking downwards.
She did care however when, with a click, something bright attacked her eyes, with a groan, she buried her face into the comfy thing.
“P-P-P-PRINCESS CELESTIA!?” Shouted a new loud thing.
“Good morning Twilight” Said the most beautiful and soothing voice to ever grace her ears. “Did you manage to work out my spell?”
“Y-Y-Your Spell? Do you mean… were you Sunny Skies?”
“Indeed my most faithful student, and good morning to you Rarity, I do hope we can be friends, Cheerilee and Twilight have told me so much about you.”
Rarity? She knew a Rarity.
“But of course, your highness.” Said a new voice, oh that was Rarity.
“Excellent, but when it's just us friends, would you please call me Sunny?”
“But of course your high… Sunny. Might I ask, is Cheerilee alright? I was hoping to speak to her.”
Cheerilee? That was an important name, but why?
“I’m afraid not, she seems to be refusing to wake up, but I did bring her down in case she was needed.”
Her comfy thing… her princess began to rotate, meaning more of the sun assaulted her eyes. She loved the sun, so she decided to bury her face into her sun a bit more, but the other sun was been very mean.
“Oh my, is she alright?” Asked a concerned voice.
A concern that seemed to be directed at her, had she caused that? Maybe she should abandon her attempt to return to blissful sleep.
“Oh I'm sure she will be fine, she just spent too much time admiring the sun last night.”
… Cheerilee sat bolt upright, she did not hear what she thought she heard right!? Cherilee was now very awake, and she began to take in her surroundings.
She was nestled on Celestia’s back, and they were standing at her front door. On the outside of said, open door, were Twilight Sparkle, whose mane was giving her flashbacks to a very… eventful Tuesday, and Rarity, who was currently a deep shade of crimson… Rarity was blushing, which implied that what she thought she just heard, was probably accurate.
“Oh, oh my.” Whimpered Rarity.
“But there isn’t a sun at night.” Said a very confused Twilight.
As Rarity, and Cheerilee both turned deeper shades of red, Celestia spoke, “Regardless my little ponies, now that Cheerilee and I are awake, we should get ready to face the day, perhaps we could have breakfast together in 1 hour? I’ve been wanting to try some of Pinkie Pies cakes without everpony making a fuss over me, oh, and please don’t tell anyone I’m Sunny Skies outside of the other elements, thank you.”
“Certainly, your Sunny-ness.” Said Rarity, “Come on Twilight, let's go sort out your mane.”
Rarity's horn ignited into a pale blue, and she began to drag Twilight away, sadly, before Celestia could close the door, Cheerilee heard one last thing from Twilight.
“But I don’t understand, what sun? Rarity, how could she …”
Whatever else was said, was mercifully cut off as Celestia closed the door.
A moment later, a golden glow picked up Cheerilee, and gently deposited her on the sofa, once she was safe, Celestia burst out laughing.
“Oh my stars, Rarity’s face, oh, oh my, I’ve heard that line so many times, but I never thought I’d enjoy saying it myself this much!” Celestia cried with laughter.
“You, you… I can’t believe you just did that, dear... you, I have to teach her sister, how am I going to look her in the face tomorrow morning?”
“I’m sorry, are you ok?” A now more sombre Celestia asked, “I tend to get a bit carried away with jokes when I’m not holding myself in check.”
Cheerilee smiled, she’d never expected to hear something so crass from Celestia, but from Sunny? The alicorn had a valid point about her identity, had Princess Celestia walked into the bar that day, she would have been bowing with everypony else. Had she barreled into Princess Celestia, and ended up on top of her after running around Canterlot, the city guard would have probably tried to throw her in jail, but instead, she got to meet Sunny Skies, and eventually, Celestia, the carefree mare, who loved to joke around, who cared deeply about everypony, and was also a teacher! But the best thing was, that Celestia was a fantastic big spoon!
“I think, I’m going to be much better than ok.” Smiles Cheerilee
The sun was setting over Canterlot, and while most ponies were either settling down or preparing for the night, a fuchsia mare sat alone in front of a cafe.
The mare didn’t mind, of course, she had been warned that her date might be late, but to be left waiting until sunset was later than she had anticipated.
She gave a small chuckle to herself, it was hard to imagine that it had been only 6 months since they’d first met, yet, it had only been one month since that day.
***********
Silence fell over the pair, as Cheerilee collected herself after pouring her heart out, she focused on Sunny to try and read her reaction. Sunny’s eyes were wide in shock, and while a hoof was hiding the fact her mouth was agape, she did not manage to prevent her winds from shooting out in shock.
Sunny sighed, “I- I owe you an apology and an explanation.”
The Pegasus was lost in thought when a series of knocks came from the front door.
“Hello? Cheerilee? It’s Twilight, are you there? We couldn’t find Sunny so we decided to come here.”
With a sigh, Sunny Skies left the table and began to walk towards the entrance, “but it seems I should speak with Lady Sparkle first.”
Cheerilee reached out with a hoof, desperate to stop the other mare, but was too slow. She could only watch in horror as the one she’d just confessed to walked away from her, towards a unicorn who might take her away forever.
“Hello Lady Sparkle, it’s a pleasure to meet you, I am Sunny Skies, I believe you’ve been looking for me?”
“Ah hello, and yes, but is Cheerilee here? She wasn’t at Pinkies party so I was wondering if she’d returned home..”
At the mention of her name by Twilight, Cheerilee snapped back to reality. In a desperate attempt to reach the other ponies, Cheerilee fell out of her chair with a clatter.
“I’m here, coming!” Said Cheerilee, as she scrambled back to her hooves and towards the others. As she entered the living room, she saw Sunny and Twilight in the doorway, and true to Twilight’s word, both Rainbow Dash and Applejack were with the unicorn, both of whom seemed ready to jump Sunny at a moment's notice. Behind them, Cheerilee could just make out Rarity who was nervously hiding behind Applejack.
Looking towards Twilight, she was surprised to see the unicorn smiling calmly, in contrast to the other ponies with her.
“Ah, hi Cheerilee, are you alright?” Twilight asked, with a concerned tone to her voice.
“Yes, perfect, nothing wrong, I'm fine, certainly not Changeling- Changing my mind about anything
Applejack and Rainbow’s eyes narrowed at her accidental mixup, but before anyone could reach, Sunny spoke up.
“Could I invite you in for some Banana cake Lady Sparkle, it’s fresh from Manehatten.”
“Wh… what?” Spluttered Twilight in surprise,
“I also have Red Velvet if that is more your preference.”
Cheerilee was mortified, They didn’t have any cake, what was Sunny thinking? Wait, was she trying to lure them inside? Is she thinking about fighting Twilight and her friends? Had she cooked two cakes along with the pancakes while she was out?
Applejack and Rainbow were both caught off guard, they’d been expecting to find a Changeling after all, not an invitation to cake, but it was Twilight who reacted first.
“Re-Red V-Velvet? But that means… And you…” Twilight paled with each passing word, and even took a step back until Sunny leaned in and whispered something in Twilight's ear.
Whatever was said, made the unicorn's eyes widen in horror.
“She’s safe, let go girls.” Spluttered Twilight, and before any pony else could react, she’d turned round and fled the scene.
With the local “Changeling expert” gone, that left Cheerilee, Sunny Skies, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity standing around awkwardly. With a mutual nod, Applejack and Rainbow ran after the retreating dust cloud, leaving a very confused Rarity.
“Well, it’s, erm, lovely to meet you, Darling, Cheerilee has told me so much about you, but I’d best go after Twilight, are we still on for the Spa on Wednesday Cheeri?”
It took a moment to realise that she’d been addressed but as a white feather booped her nose, Cheerilee snapped back to reality, “Yes, of course, sorry for the trouble.”
With a smile and a wave, Rarity began to trot after her long-gone friends, leaving only Cheerilee and Sunny Skies.
With a sigh, Sunny closed the door and made her way to the sofa.
“I think, we need to talk.”
And there it was Cheerilee thought to herself, she had been short-sighted, foolish, and an all-round terrible pony. Sunny had journeyed here battered and bruised, and Cheerilee had accused her of being a Changeling.
“Cheerilee, I’m a Changeling.” Confessed Sunny Skies.
***********
The Sun had almost set now, and Cheerilee was glad that the snack she ordered had arrived, and judging by the galloping hoof steps approaching her, if her snack had been any later she wouldn’t have been able to get revenge for being left alone so long.
Circling the table and planting herself down on the opposite chair, Sunny Skies joined Cheerilee, 3 hours later than they’d planned.
“I’m so sorry, I was stuck, and there was this stuck up… is that a Quasadia?”
Cheerilee giggled to herself, “Yup, I’ve been craving them all month, want one?”
Sunny flinched, “Oh Celestia no, there just so..”
“Cheesy?”
Sunny gulped and simply nodded her head.
“Well,” said Cheerilee, “What happened?”
A wicked smile grew on Sunny’s face. “Oh, you’re going to love this.”
***********
A few hours earlier, a very tense situation had developed in the Canterlot Castle throne room. For most ponies, an audience with Princess Celestia, and a squadron of Royal Guards would be terrifying, however, it was the guards who were terrified, while the petitioner continued his speech, none the wiser to his potential danger.
The court had been about to end, when Blueblood walked in, and announced that a distant relative of his had requested a meeting, and much to everypony’s displeasure, Princess Celestia accepted the last-minute request. What walked in was an older Stallion wearing a sharp black three-piece suit, ending at the front of his barrel. The Stallion’s coat was mostly a faded grey, with a splattering of black patches, and on his flank was a dark grey shield cutie mark, with a pouch of bits at its centre, the guards silently groaned as the dreaded Count L.Morals took to the floor.
That was the start of a very long hour, and the guards had endured the Count’s ramblings about the bits spent in the reconstruction efforts around Canterlot. That led into a spiel about how the traumatised upper class needed a new environment to relax and spend their bits and was followed by the usual buttering up of Princess Celestia, stating that a new gallery should be commissioned to remind everypony how great she was.
And of course, he didn’t fail to mention, “If we give the upper class an opportunity, the bits they spend will flow down to the less fortunate,” every few minutes. The guard had been switching between, bored, annoyed, and angry throughout the proposition, however, that all changed when Count L. Morals said something stupid.
“And so, I believe that the currently damaged, however unquestionably radiant, and historically unique Solar Progenium should be converted into a gallery and Gentlepony’s Club. Such a venue would be excellent for hosting charity gala’s, and the view over the planes of Canterlot is second only to your Majesty's castle, truly no nobler spot for your very important ponies.”
The Solar Progenium, or as most ponies born within the last 200 years knew it, the Canterlot Orphanage. Any anger the guard felt towards the stallion instantly evaporated and was replaced with terror, as one by one, as subtly as possible, the guards looked towards their Solar Diarch, as they wondered, what the Alicorn renowned for her generosity towards orphans, would do to the Count.
Sunny Skies, however, was not Celestia, despite the wings, horn, ethereal mane and replica regalia that was a near-perfect match for the original, just much lighter, Changelings shouldn’t be as strong as Alicorns after all. Regardless, it was currently Sunny Skies who sat upon the Solar throne, looking down at the terrified guards, the oblivious Count L.Morals and a very annoyed Blueblood, she was going to have to ask that stallion for a raise after this.
The Celestia-approved response would be to: acknowledge the stallion's input, and send him on his way with the belief that Celestia would consider his idea, though she, along with all but one pony in this room knew that Princess Celestia probably wouldn’t have taken that route this time. Since Queen Chrysalis’s invasion, Celestia had been working almost none stop overseeing the rebuilding of Canterlot, along with developing new anti-Changeling security measures, updating security protocols across Equestria, rebalancing the budget to accommodate re-construction and increased guard spending, and somehow, still found time to make public appearances across the country to reassure her ponies.
Fortunately for Count L. Morals, Celestia was currently in exile. After an overly dramatic display, involving Princess Luna, the Night Guard, half the Royal Guard, and 5 of the Elements of Harmony stormed Celestia’s study. With Celestia captured, her power sealed, and coerced into a shapeshifting enchantment, Celestia was now on holiday. If the terms of the ‘surrender’ Luna had imposed upon Celestia were being followed, ‘Sunrise Apple’ should be in the middle of a Pinkie Pie Party.
This left the minor detail of hiding Princess Celestia's disappearance from Canterlot, fortunately, the ‘Canterlot Hive’ had been providing Celestia’s body doubles for generations, unfortunately, of the 5 trained Changeling body doubles, only one had any actuarial experience in said role.
So while it was fortunate for Count L. Morals that he was not at the receiving end ‘Daybreaker Breaker’ sponsored trip to the sun, it did mean that Sunny Skies was late to her 6 month anniversary.
“An interesting suggestion Count Low Morals, one of which has opened my eyes, and I do believe that the usage of the reconstructed Solar Progenium should be set aside for a new purpose.” Sunny could feel the confusion radiating from the guards, the happiness from the Count, and the concern that Blueblood was directing towards her.
“However, the Solar Court does not have the available funding, as you mentioned previously, so I shall have the paperwork completed, and if you could please return in, 4 hours, the Night Court will be able to push through your request in record timing.”
***********
“YOU DID WHAT!” Shouted Cheerilee.
“I completed all the paperwork, in triplicate, with my authority as ‘Celestia for the weekend’, and sent it to Night Court”
“But, but, the orphanage, the orphans, why?”
Sunny smiled “Well, the building was getting a bit worn down, and Celestia probably would have had to make some kind of reparation towards the Stallion, you know, if she didn’t send him to the sun, so I sent him to some pony who would put him in his place without maiming him, probably.”
“What do you mean?”
“Have you heard who’s currently housing the orphanage's foals? ”
***********
Meanwhile- In Night Court
Luna looked between the paperwork, and the stallion before her, the Count clearly had less witt than Discord’s statue, and while she would happily allow her guards to rip the pompous oaf to ribbons, however, she remembered something she could use to advantage, especially since Celestia wouldn’t be able to overturn ‘Celestia’ in time. She would have to arrange an appropriate boon for Sunny Skies later.
“We see your proposition Count, and we agree, the Solar Progenium shall be reclaimed for the arts as you suggest.”
The Count looked elated, but before he could speak, Luna continued.
“We hath noted the population of Canterlot has grown significantly in recent years, causing certain sectors to struggle, along with the declining number of orphans, as such, The Solar Progenium is indeed no longer fit for such a purpose. So, we shall transform it into a new school, with a specialisation in the arts! A school to rival the prestige of Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, but all ponies shall be welcome!”
Count L. Morals was dumbfounded, while Blueblood, who was observing the session had to force down a laugh.
“INDEED, AND AS FOR THE ORPHANAGE, THE CASTLE’S NIGHT WING, WILL REMAIN ITS REPLACEMENT, FOREVER!”
