Her Shimmering Sunset

by Soufriere


Chapter Two: Sunset

Twilight?

Oh, it’s you. Hello, Sunset.

What’s with the attitude?

I could ask the same of you. What was with that Runic message to Cadance and Princess Celestia? What were you trying to hide from me? That’s not how friends act.

Sorry. I had to say something to Caddy and to Her without any middlemen. Personal, but nothing personal, really. Also I didn’t want to be lectured at.

I don’t lecture!

Yes, you do. And, honestly, I’m just as guilty if I don’t hold myself back. We’re more alike than unalike, which makes sense considering She raised both of us.

Fine. I’m not so heartless that I won’t let something like that slide. I forgive you. So, how can I help? I know you need something; you never write anymore otherwise. I miss talking to you. Your messages interrupt the insanity here. Also, what’s up with your tiny writing?

The tiny writing is because I want to save parchment; this diary is over two-thirds filled and who knows when or if I’d be able to replace it. As to the rest, I’ve been busy maintaining my façade. Also worrying. So… you may be the worst pony to talk to about this but I don’t know who else to turn to.

Thanks for the vote of confidence.

I need relationship advice.

…You’re right. I am the worst pony you could talk to. You must be desperate.

I kind of am. I’ll cut right to the chase: I think Rarity is in love with me.

…Seriously? I mean, it’s not really surprising since the Rarity here shtups Applejack on the side when they’re both in between boyfriends. They think we don’t notice, but we do… except Pinkie Pie, which is fine because they don’t want a public party. P.P. doesn’t understand the idea of a casual fling.

And you do?

I’ve read about them in books! I guess I sort of maybe had one with Flash after he dumped you. Or you dumped him, I guess.

You didn’t. You really didn’t. Not like the big doof didn’t try though. That fail is on you, Twilight. In fact, you need to get your act together as much as I do or he’s going to move on and find a permanent girlfriend who won’t throw a jackhammer at him.

(jackhammer?) I know, I know, but I just have all these Princess of Friendship duties here! There just isn’t time for me to go through that mirror on a whim anymore. Sometimes… I wish I could just get rid of these wings, earn back a little freedom.

I wish you could too. Interpret that however you want. Heavy is the head that wears the crown. If She didn’t tell you that, She really should have.

But we’re talking about you. You and Rarity. Do you like her?

She’s my best friend. I’d be lost without her.

Do you like her??

I guess. To be honest, I’m not sure what direction I swing, if any. I certainly felt something when she left those sexy photos for me to look at. She’s a gorgeous girl. A good kid who deserves better than a washed up liar like me.

What do you mean by that?

I haven’t told her the truth about, well, a lot of things. Lying by omission. I’ve said almost nothing about my past, including my real age. If I come clean, will she leave me? Potential lover aside, I’m terrified of losing my closest friend.

You know, Cadance told me something when I was pining over your ex.

Good thing I never really cared about the blue-haired oaf. Much. What did Caddy say?

To paraphrase: If she truly loves you, she’ll let all that slide.

I certainly hope so. …There’s one more thing.

What is it?

I’m strongly considering returning to Equestria.

Pretty bad timing, don’t you think?

Of course it is; I’m not dumb. Going back has been on my mind for awhile now, long before this stuff with Rarity happened. I think… I need to see Her and accept what’s due me.

That’s really mature of you.

Or stupid. I expect the moment I return I’ll be arrested and put on trial for, well, lots of things. The punishment for most of them is banishment plus summary incarceration.

I’d be happy to testify before a tribunal in your defense! Not even the Chancellor coul—

Stop. You’re a princess. So is Caddy. Equestria is a land of Laws nowadays. I doubt either of you could. So, I’m screwed. At least in my current prison, I have some semblance of freedom, along with people who care about me. Someone who loves me, whether I deserve it or not. Sure as hell never got that in Equestria.

I don’t think you’re right on that last point, but…

Regardless, I don’t know what to do about this Rarity situation.

Neither do I, but I’ll try my best. This is a bit beyond friendship, so…

I appreciate your willingness to help, really, even if you don’t know what you’re doing.

You flatter me, Sunset. </sarcasm>

‘Welcome.

Anyway, if your Rarity is anything like ours, she’ll eventually get frustrated and take matters into her own hoov— hands.

She won’t murder me in my sleep, will she? I had a dream about that.

What?! No! Maybe you need to see a therapist. I know one in Canterlot. His name is Doctor Vo—

Yeah, yeah, I know I do. But not now. First things first.

Right. So, she’s probably going to see you and you need to be prepared.

How do I do that?

…I have no idea.

Thank you for that valuable insight. Truly you are a magnificent princess.

Hey, I didn’t ask for this either! But it’s my duty now and I will fulfill it.

Y’know, it’s funny. Ten years ago, I wanted to be a Princess so badly, I broke every law in the land to try and force it to happen. After some literal tough love and over half a year of serious thought… I couldn’t care less anymore. You can have your boring responsibilities and tedious travels.

As I said. Rarity is the type who will eventually say how she feels. I can’t tell you how to prepare for that. I’m not you. Just… follow your instincts. Okay, let me rephrase that. Follow your better instincts.

Just so you know, I’m rolling my eyes right now. Maybe I should have asked Caddy instead. She is the Princess of Love after all.

She would spend all her time peppering you with questions about the last decade of your life and forget to help because she’d be too excited from communicating with you.

Point taken.

Anyway, I’m sorry I can’t be more of a help. Good luck, Sunset. I hope this all works out, and that your dreams tonight are pleasant for once.

Thanks. You too, Twilight.