To make up for the Anon-A-Miss incident, Canterlot High's student body plan a surprise party for Sunset's 16th birthday.
While going over the guest list, the Rainbooms ask a question they never thought to ask: where is Sunset's family? They soon wonder why Sunset has never talked about them. From what little they can gleam from Sunset's bitter remarks, they determine that she estranged from her widowed mother in Equestria. They and Princess Twilight decide that helping Sunset and her mom reconcile would be the best present ever.
But in their well-meaning attempt to help Sunset heal from the scars of her past, the Rainbooms have unwittingly opened an old wound instead.
When Sunset finds herself in a difficult person, the task of helping her may end up being in the hands of the least likely person. Someone who's friend was severely damaged by Sunset's misdeeds. Someone who must grapple with the meaning of forgiveness, loyalty, and compassion.
What Happened to Sunset's Family is the fifth story of Sunset's Steps, the fanfic series detailing Sunset's growth from a forlorn loner to the heroic defender of Canterlot High.
The story is set roughly two weeks before the Friendship Games.
Here are the other stories in chronological order.
Live By The Sword...-Completed.
Working Girl Sunny-Ongoing.
The Downfall of Sunset Shimmer: An Anon-A-Miss Story-Completed.
What Happened to Sunset's Family?-Ongoing