//------------------------------//
// Sanctuary (Part 1) 
// Story: Equestria Girls: Love Is Magic 
// by onekface 
//------------------------------//


Chapter 30: Sanctuary (Part 1)



(Canterlot Hill Picnic Grounds)



“Ow…” Sunset flinched back when Flash gently tapped the alcohol dipped cotton on the wound on her cheeks. It was painful but necessary.

“Sorry. Just… bear with it for the moment.” The boy instructed bringing out the first-aid kit from his car. “We need to disinfect it before we put on the band-aid. It’s not a deep cut so it should heal up nicely after a few days.”

“I know… thanks.” She gritted her teeth and decided to bear with the pain a little bit longer.

Being on this hilltop on the outskirts of the city gave them a sense of déjà vu. It served as a rally point for when things go bad. Rainbow kept a lookout while they stayed under the beam of a camp light. They can hear sirens in the distance wailing as the smoke from Sunset’s apartment plumed in the night sky.

“I texted everyone to meet up.” Rainbow spoke, already reaching the limit of her reasoning. “So I’m guessing that the shadow monster attacked?”

“Three shadow monsters actually.” Strangely enough it wasn’t Sunset who replied but the oddly talking pony dancing on top of the music box. “Hi there. Starlight Glimmer. We met some time ago. I was the one who saved you from the magic mirror dimension?”

“Right~” Flash wasn’t sure why he was so surprised. He’d already seen the Pony world and a lot weirder magic than this. “And you’re a… talking music box?”

“Nope. I’m a genuine pony from Equestria.” She grinned. “This is an experimental spell. I know this is a lot to take in but do you mind turning off the music in this thing? It’s not exactly fitting for the mood.” The boy gladly did so stopping the pony from spinning around. “Phew. That’s much better. It’s easier to talk to you guys without doing a twirl every ten seconds.”

“But why was Hoity targeting you?” Rainbow continued her questioning. “I mean… is he really out to get us?”

“What?” The name rang a bell in Flash’s head.

“No not me… or us.” Sunset groaned, gathering her strength to stand up. “He wasn’t after any of us particularly. I think he was after this.” She pointed at the Portal Stone which now strangely hummed with more energy than usual. “Rarity was right. He was after the statue. I’m not sure why but I’m definitely sure that was what he sent those snakes for.”

Rainbow eyed the relic and tilted her head questioningly. “All that for this piece of junk?”

“That’s more than just a pretty statue.” The pony on the box reminded. “That’s a Portal Stone. It’s capable of teleporting you to just about anywhere. The magical configuration alone is far more advance than whatever Equestria can offer.”

“Excuse me.”

“It’s a powerful relic.” Sunset confirmed it. “And they were willing to go far to get it.”

“Well if it’s that powerful, then why don’t we use this thing?” The jock gal lifted the statue up expecting it tear the fabric of time and space immediately. “I say we gather the gang together, pony-up and teleport ourselves right into that guy’s hideout and take him down hard and fast. He won’t even see us coming.”

“Hello?”

“It’s not that simple.” Sunset snatched the stone away putting it back on the table. “For that thing to work, we need a functioning gate. It’s… complicated. I’ll tell you the details later.”

“Why don’t you just tell me now?”

“Because that’ll take time!”

“HEY!” Having enough of being ignored, Flash snapped at them. “Can you please stop pretending that I don’t even exist over here? You two arguing over a lot of things, yet I feel like I’m missing a boatload of context!”

Sunset shook her head, holding it in her hand. “Flash. I think it’s best if you…”

“Oh no you don’t.” The boy swatted whatever stupid reason she had to say, frustration building up in his voice. “Not this time. I supported you guys because of what you do. But after what that’s happened, I think I’m entitled to a little bit of information here.”

“It’s dangerous for you to know.”

“Sunset! You almost got killed over there! Your apartment got blown to bits!” He raised his hands up, sadly not in exaggeration. “And it’s not just you either. Applejack and Rarity got hit too. I think that speaks volume of how dangerous this whole thing is! Who else needs to get hurt before you get it through your head!? I want to help. But I can’t do that if you won’t open up to me.”

“I’m trying to keep you out of harm.”

“I think you should worry about your own safety before mine.”

“Well you don’t have to deal with evil magic 24/7! You think I want this!?”

“I’m thinking you could use an extra hand!”

Rainbow quickly intervened stepping between the two. “Whoa there. I'm not much of a pacifist but I think we're going off track.”

“Oh~ you think you know how magic works around here!?” Sunset snapped back. “What? You think you're an expert now!? What happened to trusting me!?”

“I trust you to get yourself in trouble!”

“We can deal with magic!”

“What? Just like how you dealt with Cinch? Because that worked out well too, didn't it?”

“Oh~~ well sorry! I suppose that's worse than burning down a whole block because of your idiocy!”

“Hey! If it wasn't for me, you'd be a goner!” Flash snapped back. "What happened to you!? You're not just endangering yourself but also your friends! You're supposed to be smarter than this!"

“Guys! Chill! We’re going nowhere with this.” Rainbow paused, feeling weird inside. “Ugh… I can’t believe I have to be the voice of reason here. But...... I got to side with Flash on this one, Sunset.”

“Rainbow Dash!”

She flinched, raising her hand up in defense. “Now wait. Hear me out here. You gotta admit that we might be a little bit over our heads here. I talk a lot of smack but this Hoity guy doesn't sound like someone who'll pull any punches. So it wouldn’t be bad if we had some kind of backup, and Flash here is offering to help." She pointed to the boy in question who seemed to be fuming. "The least we can do is bring him into the loop. And remember: Your apartment just blew up to bits earlier.”

Sunset froze up at the mention of her apartment.

Now that she calmed down and thought about it, everything she had in this world just went up in flames. Her money, her clothes, her game consoles, her collection of PostCrush memorabilia. Everything. All the material wealth she earned in this world turned to ash in the blink of an eye. Other than the clothes she had on her back, the Portal Stone, the black gemstone and the music box… she had nothing else.

Perhaps that saying of ‘Don’t look a gift pony in the mouth’ had some merit around here. And right now having a super-rich ex-boyfriend could be her only quick ticket to a speedy recovery.

As much as she hated to admit it, she needed help. A lot of help.

“You’re… right.” She palmed her face, forcing that anger inside of her to take a hike. “This whole mess is… too much for me. And I…… really can’t do this on my own. If this is how far this secret society is willing to go… then I can’t risk put any of my friends in danger too.” Sucking down her pride she turned to Flash who seethed. “I know I’m gonna sound like a hypocrite but… Flash. I need your help.”

Those words alone were enough to cool the fire burning in him. The boy let out a frustrated sigh not really meeting her gaze. “You got it.”

“And I promise I’ll tell you everything. But after we find somewhere safe. This place isn't exactly sitting well for me.”

He nodded. “I got just the place.”



(Hoity Toity Trendsetter)



A frown decorated itself on Hoity’s face when he felt his minions slither back into his shadow. Disappointment marred his face. The Master will definitely not be pleased when she hears about the racket that they caused earlier tonight.

That damnable explosion could be heard all the way to Uptown. Though she did lift the discretion ban. That doesn’t excuse the destruction that they wrought. First that fire that burned down a whole city block, now this? If this continues then the people might become suspicious of their activities. Their organization might be exposed because of him.

And to think he lectured Cinch about being brazen.

Now he looks like a fool who can't even take his own advice.

Oh well… regardless. As long as they have the stone then he was sure the Master would forgive him. Results were all that mattered in the organization after all. The fashionista star turned to his shadow expectantly until he heard one of them whisper.

…

…

…

“WHAT!?”

The three snake shadows slunk back into the dark, eyes furrowed in fear. The man’s wrath seemed to inspire fear in them.

“What did I say about playing with your food!? I told you to recover the stone first! How could you fail!?”

“The girl was careful.”

“She was not powerful.”

“Perhaps we were a bit… playful.”

“Silence!” They recoiled, two of them wishing to sink back into the shadow. Hoity rubbed the temple on his nose, frustrated. “I sent you three to do one simple task and you botched it harder than Cinch ever could. You make me look like a fool!” He sighed. “And where is the stone now?”

“We… we do not know.”

“Then find it! The night is still young. They couldn’t have gone far!” The lamias hissed and quickly scattered out of the store like fire was hot on their trail. “The Master will not be pleased.”



(Hillside house)



It was about half an hour drive from the city before they saw it.

Just a little way pass the entrance of the Everfree Woods, through a dirt road and over a rickety bridge where the tree lines stop, was a lonely quaint little structure that seemed to have been abandoned.

Just beyond the meadow, on that hillside overlooking the beach and the great ocean below stood a house made of bricks and wood. Around that house stood a large open courtyard that must’ve looked beautiful at one point in time. And around that courtyard was a single line picket fence that had been worn down through time.

Flash drove the car up to the old cute looking mailbox and got out. His gaze fixed upon the structure that became larger the closer they got to it.

The house itself looked like it was built during the late colonial era before bricks and mortar became a staple use. It was surprisingly huge for a family of three. About twice the size of her old apartment by Sunset’s rough estimate. Maybe even more. The first floor was made out of wooden planks with foldable windows. There was a porch on the front and back with small steps leading into the house. There was even a rocking chair to boot to add for that old timey atmosphere. And behind the house was a long winding staircase that led to the beach below the cliff.

This place was must’ve been paradise during the summer.

Opening the door inside, the three of them found the place to be downright spacious. Everything here was covered under a surprisingly thin layer of dust and cobwebs. Three comfy looking chairs and a long couch surrounded a small rectangular table all facing the fireplace which was the only thing in the whole house that was made out of stone. A few household decoration dotted the place. A lamp here, a bookshelf there, and a few scenery paintings hanging on the wall. Next to it was the stairway leading to the second floor, and beyond that was the dining room and a few more doors connected by a hallway.

“Wow…” Was all Sunset could say as her foot creaked on the old floorboard. “This is your old house?”

The boy gave a confirming noise before turning on his flashlight on his phone. “Yup. According to what my dad said at least. This is where we used to live before we moved into the big city. Apparently I was just a baby so I can’t really remember much of the place. But I’m guessing it was pretty neat during its time.”

“You were still in diapers?” Rainbow teased though her joke didn’t leave them laughing. “Sorry. Not the time, I know. But I couldn’t resist.”

The redhead rolled her eyes and slowly walked in with Starlight literally in hand, both of them inspecting the place with curious eyes. “It’s gorgeous.” The pony commented. “Creepy beyond all reasons, yeah, but also… gorgeous.”

Sunset agreed on that notion and was about to comment until her attention focused on the tall water colored portrait hanging above the fireplace. It was a family picture of sorts of the young couple that once lived here.

She immediately recognize Sombra standing in his light brow teacher’s coat with elbow patches. He didn't look all that different from his current self. The slender well dressed woman sitting next to him, hands folded together, she could only guess was his wife.

“Is that… your mom?”

Flash pointed his light on the picture smiling softly. “Yeah. I think so. She’s a lot younger here than most of the photos back in my place. I think this was painted before I was born.”

Sunset couldn’t take her eyes off her. The woman looked downright captivating. Her oval face was shaped  without blemishes. She was like a sculpture chiseled from a stone and then smoothed down to the closest approximation of perfection. Those sweet caring eyes grabbed her attention complimenting her gorgeous long brown hair that reached her hip. And that smile? That smile would’ve made even make the coldest of hearts thaw like snow in the first day of spring. She could stand here and stare at it for hours

“She’s beautiful.”

He agreed. Yet sadly that face failed to produce any kind of memory in his mind. To him, that woman was just as a stranger as this house was. He thought that by visiting this place he would get flashbacks or something like heroes in the stories with amnesia. But then again that would just be asking for too much.

While he recall some bits and pieces there, nothing here seemed to jog anything. Not the place, the view or the beach down by the cliff or any other objects for that matter. Even his father who stood alongside on that painting felt distant and unfamiliar, unlike his goofy self that he knows today.

“Hey… Sunset.” He spoke up just barely above a whisper. “Look. I’m uh… s--"

“No…” She replied casting an eye to the wall. “Don’t be.”

“It’s just that when I saw your place explode and seeing you getting hurt… I… kind of got upset.” He let out a sigh which did not escape her notice. “Things got bad before but it never got so close to home. And right now it scares me to see how dangerous your lives are because of magic.”

“You don’t know half of it.”

“And you’ll never be free of this danger as long as those shadow monsters are out there. And as long as you have magic… there’ll be others who’ll want them. Just like Cinch.” He reached out, clasping one of her hand in his palm, realizing how small it was. “I don’t know how things will turn out but always know that you have me to watch your back when things get hairy.” He returned a softened smile. “What I’m saying is… no matter what happens… I’m always here to help. Just remember to call.”

She returned the smile too, feeling some tension leaving her shoulder. “Thanks Flash. That means a lot. And… I’m sorry for snapping back at you too. I guess we're all just a little antsy. And… don’t worry. I’ll be sure to pay you back somehow.”

He waved it off smiling sweetly. “Hey don’t sweat it. And so… as my part in helping you. I want to offer this place to you and your friends.”

Sunset gawk as her head jerk back in shock. “Wait. What?”

“You guys have been saying that you need a place to feel safe, right? Well I happen to have this big house that no one’s using at the moment. It’s got plenty of room, it's close to the city with easy access but far enough to keep out of sight. Not to mention that it has a killer view of the sea.”

“Flash. You can’t just give your old house to strangers.”

“I can and I did.” He insisted. Though his reasoning was a bit bare bones. What kind of a person just gives away a house this big? “Think of this place as your non-official clubhouse for you and your friends. Besides, it was just gathering dust anyway. And you and I are hardly strangers.”

“And is your dad cool with this?”

“I’ll just tell him that I’m using the place for the holidays.” Flash gave her a casual shrug. “Besides, he hardly comes by anymore. If ever. So whenever you guys need a place to lay low, or someplace to feel safe. This house is free game.”

It was a gift. Too big of a gift but Sunset couldn’t find any reason to decline other than her pride. She had just lost everything and now her ex-boyfriend was offering a roof over her head almost free of charge. At the rate they were going, she’ll be indebted to him for life.

“I…… thanks… Flash.”

He lifted her head up to meet his loving gaze. “Hey. What are friends for?”

She brushed the side of her neck looking longingly into the boy’s eyes as old feelings crept from her heart. It got to them so quickly and they would’ve acted upon it had someone not interrupted.

“HACHOO!” The pony on the music box sneezed looking up. “Uh… sorry. Don’t mind me. Please continue. I'll uh... come back later.”

“Hey guys!” Rainbow Dash called out from the kitchen. “I found the circuit breaker.” With a touch of electricity and a little bit of rumbling, the house suddenly buzzed to life with lamps and light bulbs illuminating the place. “Woohoo! Score one for modern technology! Take that Dark Ages!”

Sunset blinked a few times adjusting her eyes to the sudden brightness of the place. Even the pony in her hand rubbed her eyes to the sudden appearance of light. It was surprisingly well-lit despite its old age technology. But it wasn’t long until she realized that the living room that they were staying in was a lot bigger than she imagined.

No… to be more precise it was more like a lounge than a living room. There were even a few more tables on the side and a drawer by the door.

“Whoa… how big is this place?”

“Very big.” The boy confirmed it with a nod. “I think dad said he wanted to convert it to a bed and breakfast. But he scrapped that idea. I think he didn't have the heart to break this place down."

“Ah…” Rainbow bobbed her head in realization. “That would explain the other bedrooms I saw on my way to the kitchen. For a moment there I thought your folks had way too much time on their hands.”

“And it’s pretty big just for me.” Sunset added with a bit of hesitation in her voice. “You sure your dad won’t mind having others use it?”

Again the boy waved it off. “Please. This is nothing. I’d offer to rebuild your apartment but dad doesn’t want me dipping into the family account again. He’s still livid about the time I rebuilt Applejack’s barn. Who knew that hiring a construction company would be so expensive?”

“Well at least we don’t have to worry about any shadow monsters sneaking up on us here.” Rainbow Dash nodded, admiring the light work this place had. “I like it. The question now is… what do we do? If we can’t strike back at Hoity Toity, we have to do something about those shadow monsters of his at least.”

“Light doesn’t seem to be effective as it was before with Cinch and her wolves.” Sunset noted to them. “He’s definitely a lot stronger than her. Not to mention he also possesses the Memory Stone.”

“Memory Stone?” Flash again questioned looking like someone who missed the prequel to a movie.

“It’s a magical artifact. I’ll tell you later. But Flash is right. We do need to do something. We need a safe place to stay for everyone and this place seems to fit the bill. We’ll bring all our friends here and discuss our next course of action. Right now I’m just glad that I have a roof over my head. And I’m… tired.”

“Me too. Who knew being scared can be exhausting?" Rainbow agreed. "Listen. I need to run by my place. I'm worried about my folks. If whatever attacked you is still out there, it might be out to get the others."

"I understand." Sunset nodded back knowing well how worried one can be about family. "Just be careful on the slippery floor."

"I will. Just need to watch my speed."

“And don't worry.” Flash reassured them. “I'll keep an eye out just in case.”

“You sure you want to stay with us after everything that’s happened?” Sunset reminded him of her apartment which recently blew up.

“Relax. I’ll be fine.” He waved it off carelessly. “I got a flashlight.”

That… didn’t exactly make her feel better.



(Equestria) (School of Friendship)



Starlight let out a tiresome yawn as she walked through the halls of her school that night. She rubbed the side of her horn feeling her magic drained from her body. Casting a spell was easy. Maintaining a spell on the other hand was another matter. It required continuous focus and discipline but it was also quite taxing on the body. Having to hold a call between two worlds was brilliant on its own and there was no doubt Twilight would praise her for creating such a spell.

When the Princess gave her the task to assist Sunset in all manner of magic in the other world, she expected it to be a simple mission just like one of those friendship quests the Cutie Map often sends them to. But this was nothing like those assignments.

As the Headmare of the School of Friendship and the apprentice of Princess Twilight herself, she upholds all the value of every creature in every world. However... the word friendship doesn't seem to react much to the monsters that they faced. Whatever those shadow creatures were, they definitely did not have a shred of light in them.

Seeing those monsters up close really got her mane standing on ends. She was glad that they were stuck on that side of the mirror and not here.

Still... if her friend is being chased by something so dangerous, she'll need all the help she can get. That's why she's spending the better part of the night in the library trying to find whatever she can about these things. Perhaps even develop a spell to counter their devilish nature. But sadly, the school's library didn't have extensive information on anything regarding shadowy creatures. Heck even information regarding the Pony of Shadows itself, the literal creature of darkness, was limited to nothing but old half-baked prophecies and poems passed along generations of Equestrians.

"Behold best friend." A booming voice came crashing into the library which strangely enough didn't startle the Headmare. "The Great and Powerful Trixie has arrived to assist you."

"Hey Trixie." She croned. "How'd you know I was here?"

"There is nothing that can hide from my powers." She boasted with a grin. "Plus I noticed the candle light. You do know the school is closed because of the preparations for the coronation, right?"

"I know. That's why I wanted to use this time to do a little research."

"More on those shadow monsters from the other world?"

"Yeah. But... it's not going so well. There's hardly anything regarding them at all. Not even the Pony of Shadows has any memorable tomes." The purple pony let out a tiresome sigh. "How's it going with the inventory check with Starswirl's stuff?"

Trixie rolled her eyes on the matter hinting that it did not go so well. "The short version would be to say that it's going very slowly. All the horsepower we have is going directly to the preparation of the coronation and the repairs on the damage Discord has done on that... 'Incident'. There isn't enough hooves around to handle all the delicate artifacts. And some of those ponies don't even want to handle these dangerous things. Not that I blame them. Did you know that Starswirl went to a world called the Empire of Mushrooms and collected over 200 different species of mushrooms all for his stew? Well I do... know it... now."

"Sounds fun."

"No... it was anything but fun. And the same can be said for your research as well." Trixie then magically snap the book Starlight was reading and piled it on the stack. "I think it's time for a certain Headmare to get her sleepy time. Come. The Student/Friendship Counselor Trixie will provide you with a nice cup of hot coco and a nice comfort blanket. And then you can tell me all of your troubles."

Starlight chuckled at her sales pitch. It was something she taught her when she became the new student counselor. "I suppose I could use a break. You wouldn't happen to have a little snack in your stash now, would you?"

"I clearly have no idea what you mean."



(Hillside house)



Flash kept a vigilant watch in the living room that night, lying on the couch eyeing the empty fireplace pretending to hear it crackle. Nothing but the howling wind and the rustling trees in the distance to keep him company. The storm outside was still raging on but it was tamer, calmer than before. He would guess that it wouldn't last more than another hour or so before disappearing.

Sunset had already gone to bed in the closest bedroom on the ground floor. The poor girl must've been frightened out of her mind after an attack like that. She's strong to be able to keep a brave image even after facing against such a dangerous opponent. Heck, all these girls are.

That one time where wolves tore his car on the streets were scary enough as it is. But these girls go through that kind of thing almost on a daily basis. To be able to stand even when beaten by such horrible foes is nothing short of incredible. If he had half the courage they had, he may as well be a hero of the ages.

Perhaps... perhaps he should've been like his dad.

Adventurous, brave and daring. His expeditions into the wild lands can be written into books that would make Daring Do look like a kid's lullaby.

He glanced upward and saw the younger version of his parents staring down on him. The image of his mother left little impact in his heart. She was definitely beautiful, there was no doubt about that. And he can see why dad would fall head over heels for her. But... there was nothing. No connections. It was like looking at the face of a stranger on the streets. they were a dime a dozen and he wouldn't give her more than a casual glance and then return to his original focus. It was just that kind of feeling.

"Hey..." The boy jumped when a voice snuck behind him making him reach for his flashlight and turned it on only to blind himself in the process. "Heh... you can turn it off."

"Ah... hi?" He spoke back looking like an awkward kid who got caught. "I thought you were asleep."

"I tired." Sunset shrugged jokingly, a blanket over her shoulder. "I couldn't."

"Oh...... uh... want me to turn the lights on?"

"No. I just..." She casually joined him on the couch. "I just need company. Mind if I join you?"

He blinked then answered. "Of course! Sure!" It was cute how urgent he looked as he pushed all the pillows on her side like he wanted to make her as comfortable as possible. "You need anything? More pillows? Music? Food? I think I have some snacks in my car or some juice."

Sunset chuckled softly. "Actually... you mind if we talk?"

"Talk?"

"Yeah... talk. I just need something to get my mind off... what just happened."

"Talking..." He sat down thinking while twiddling his thumbs together. "Yeah... I can do talking. Totally. So how are you?" Open mouth, insert foot.

She gave it a thought, chuckling at his fumbling words. "Well... how about you... tell me a little more about yourself?"

"Me?" It was a strange question for him to answer. "Why me? You probably know me better than most people."

"In that one semester when we dated, I thought I knew everything there was to know about you." The girl reasoned. "But then recently I discovered not only that my ex-boyfriend was super rich but also owns a mansion in Uptown, has a dad who will soon become the new mayor of Canterlot, has connections with a lot of people, and did I mention that he's also super-rich?"

He laughed. "Well there's not much else to know. Other than the money and mansion. You already know everything about me. Like... what's my favorite color?"

"That's easy. Blue."

Flash made a comical buzzer noise. "Eeehhrrrr. Wrong. It's actually red."

"Red? Why red?"

He glanced at her hair for a moment to give her a hint. "Why indeed." It was enough to make Sunset's face turn red under her blanket. "Aheh... ok. Let's try another. What's my favorite snack?"

"Your snack? Umm..." She paused in thought. "Jelly beans?"

"That's your favorite snack." He let out another laugh. "It's french fries."

"Huh... that would explain why you keep ordering them." Her cheerful tone was only hampered by her mood. "Guess you didn't score well in the girlfriend department."

"Hey don't fret. You got a lot of good traits left in you."

"Before the Fall Formal?"

"You were definitely a different person before you became the school meanie. Why else would I ask to date me?"

"I try not to think of the past."

"Well I do. All the time." He casually put down the flashlight, turning towards the unlit fireplace. "As a matter of fact. This kind of reminds me of our first date together."

Sunset's face poked out of her blanket yawning. "Flash. We've been through a lot of places together, but I don't think we've ever been to a cabin. Especially not being chased by a bunch of Shadow monsters."

"No. But we did go to the beach." The boy gave her a longing look. "Remember? It was the day after you and I found Bananas together."

"Bananas?" She exclaimed recalling that little rascal. "He's still with you?"

"Ever since we found him. I think he misses you a lot."

"I still can't believe you took him in."

"Well I wasn't going to let him soak in the middle of the streets. Besides... you looked like you wanted to take him in yourself."

"Heh... I do miss that little guy... and his stubby little nose. And his waggly... little tail..." She let out another yawn.

"Yeah." He let out a soft nostalgic sigh in return. "Anyway... we went to the beach together. We lost track of time somehow and nearly got back to the city late. We were so hungry that we swore that we'd stop at the first store that came to view. And luckily there was a bun place by the parking lot called..."

"The Bunbun."

He blinked. "So you do remember."

"I remember you and I ate so much of it that we kept hurling." Her eyelids slowly began to drop as she spoke. "Not exactly something I'd like to remember."

"Ok so it wasn't perfect. But I really loved that day."

"Flash. We were hungry and then we got lost driving back because you took a wrong turn."

"And I wouldn't change a single thing." He beamed. "Because that was our first official date. Sure it wasn't as romantic as either of us wanted it to be. But it was memorable. And when I look back at it, I remember that sweet girl I was with who had the widest smile in the world and the cutest little laugh."

"Are we talking about the same girl here?"

He turned to her and smiled. "Definitely."

Her face turned redder if that was even physically possible at this point. She shied away, covering herself with her blanket hoping to just disappear into its warm fabric. "You're delusional."

"Am I? Because I'm looking at that girl right now." Flash grinned. "And you know what? I think she got even cuter since then."

"Oh for the love of Celestia."



(Sunday) (Morning) (Canterlot Mall)



Luna let out a soft and pleasant sound as she strolled through the mall that morning feeling righter than rain. She drove her sister here a few minutes ago letting her go through several stores to pick out the perfect gift for her new boyfriend. Or... was it an old boyfriend? She did breakup with him and now they're back together so... yeah... old boyfriend.

Still, she didn't envy her sister one bit in this regard.

What were you supposed to get a man who metaphorically and physically had everything? Sombra was beyond rich if his lifestyle had anything to say about it. He had enough cars that can sponsor its own tour circuit, a mansion with all his needs provided and anything that can be bought or bartered. Heck, she wouldn’t be surprised if he had the kind of connections that can net him some pretty illegal stuff too.

Luna suggested some rather provocative clothing or at the very least some saucy items on the discount rack but she didn’t think that Celestia would go for something that raunchy. Her sister had an image to uphold.

So while Celestia was out getting her gift, Luna decided to once again enjoy her vacation. The preparations for the Winter Holiday  party was being handled already so there was no need to hurry. She can’t even remember the last time she went window shopping in the mall.

Oh… speaking of window shopping, her eyes suddenly snapped to a nearby bookstore where an old book was put on display.

Legend of the Storm Prince.

She recognized the title from the back-when times. It was some cheesy fantasy story with an obvious plot. But the characters inside were truly fleshed out.

“Oh now there's something you don't see every day.” She gasped excitedly. “And on sale too.” If that book was on the display window with a sales tag. That could only mean that it was the last one left. Quickly she darted into the store brushing pass a few patrons along the way. “Excuse me. Pardon me. Sorry. So sorry. Sorry. Hey! Stay out of my way you little brats! I’m a Vice-Principal! Don't make me call your parents!” That was enough to get the folks to part way for her giving her a clear line to the window display.

But when her hand reached over to the book, another one had its fingers on it.

“Excuse me.” Luna gestured politely to the mysterious gentleman who jerked his hand back.

“Oh no. It was my fault.” He nodded back before they both reached for the same book again, this time eyeing each other suspiciously. “Aheh… I’m sorry. But I believe you have my book.”

“No. I believe you have MY book.” She retorted, putting more strength in her hand. “I had my eye on it first.”

“But I had my hand on it first.”

“We both had our hands on it at the same time.”

“Then I invoke the power of dibs.”

Luna gasped. “Dibs? What are you? Ten?”

“It’s called being young at heart. Something an old crone like you would never understand.”

“OLD CRONE!?” Oh now you’ve done it buster. “I’m hardly above my prime!”

“Still past it dear.” He pulled a little harder which she responded in kind.

“Don’t you know that people like you should respect your elders!?” She paused to think on that sentence when the man flashed her a sarcastic grin. “Which I am not!”

“Ha! Too late. Already said it, grandma.”

“Hand it over!”

“Not in this lifetime!”

“Hey! I’m a Vice-Principal so you will do what I say!”

“I got you beat on that too. I am the Principal of Crystal Prep!”

Crystal Prep?

The name made her pause loosening her grip on the book just as the man heaved once more making him stumble back and lose his balance. He fell headfirst on the bookcases creating a literal domino effect that made a whole mess of the place. Books spilled from their places piling onto the unlucky fellow below. One hardback book in particular slid down from its stand slamming against his head with a loud defining thud. 

“Ow…”

“Sombra?”

The man looked up suddenly noting a familiarity in her face. “Wait… Luna?”



xxxxxxxxxx



“I am so sorry about that.” Luna apologized for what must’ve been the ninth time. It was fine, probably, since it showed how much she meant it. “I didn’t meant to drop a pile of books on you. I’m really sorry.” Make that ten times.

“Don’t be.” The raven haired gentleman laughed. He sat on his seat, a pack of ice held against his head numbing the bump that he suffered from that literary assault. Thankfully some of his wavy hair cushioned the blow sparing him any permanent damage. “I should be the one apologizing for not recognizing you sooner. The hair alone should’ve given you away.”

“I can say the same for you.” She folded her arms returning a cocky smirk, the bookstore now a distant memory while they sat in a random café. “I thought you hated it keeping that thing long.”

“I did.” He groaned, tracing his finger through his hair. “But Sophie insisted I keep it long. She said that it adds a sense of regal and respect to me. She often tries to write me off like some kind of king. Plus she liked to play with it when we were together.”

“Oh yeah.” Luna bobbed her head recalling an old memory. “Now that you mentioned it she used to do my sister’s hair too. That would explain a lot.” She paused. “I suppose everyone has their kinks.”

“Hers just happens to be stranger than most.” They shared a laugh together, reminiscing of the good old days. “And what about you?”

“Me?” The lady blinked questioningly. “What about me?”

“What have you been up to these days? Lesty told me that you worked alongside her as the Vice Principal of CHS. I can’t imagine you settling for a teaching job.”

“Oh really now?” She challenged him. “And what were you expecting me to be, hmm?”

“Well for one thing: I remember you kept bragging that you’ll be running your own business by the time you graduate.” Sombra shrugged back comically. “That or traveling the world.”

“I travel.”

“School fieldtrips don’t count.”

“Hmph!” Oh god. Her pout was absolutely adorable. And it’s not like she could compare achievements with the guy. Tossing that question back was like stepping on a landmine she set herself. The guy was a gosh-darn millionaire who owns multiple properties around Canterlot, is the Principal of a famed academy and was bound to win the next mayoral election next year and become the ruling head of the city.

“Fine. So I may not be as successful as you but I find my life to be very fulfilling. Being a teacher is its own reward.” That didn’t sound as convincing as she made it up to be.

“Really?” Sombra took interest.

"Yes. But enough about me." She directed the attention back at him. "What's the future mayor of Canterlot doing at the mall at this time? Planning to buy the place?" And considering his wealth, that wouldn't be an exaggeration either.

"No. Nothing so drastic." He laughed it off like it was some kind of joke. But his words stated otherwise. "I'm actually gift shopping."

Luna's brow rose. "Oh? Getting my sister something?"

"What? No no. I don't think gifts are appropriate at the moment. I'm actually looking for something for my son."

"Flash?"

"He's the only one I have." Duh. Of course it's Flash. Who else could it be? "The problem now is: I don't exactly know what to get him."

"Having relationship problem with your son?"

He brushed it off. "No. Our relationship is actually quite healthy if I must describe it. It's just that we haven't exactly had time to talk to one another so I'm... a little in the dark on what to get him." Sombra then eyed her. "You wouldn't happen to know, would you?"

Luna cupped her chin in thought. "Well, he's into music and movies - and a little bit of sports. Does that help?"

"No. He already has his own guitar, a large collection of posters and movies for our record room, and a car of his own. I doubt I can add anything to that. Perhaps... you can help me find it? We can discuss it over lunch."

“Fine.” She agreed strangely quickly. “But you’re paying.”

“Me? Why me?”

“Because there’s this expensive pasta place that I’ve been dying to try and a poor old lady like myself can’t really afford it.”

Sombra groaned back annoyingly. “I’m paying for that ‘Old crone’ comment aren’t I?”

“Yup.”

What a petty woman.



(Hillside House)



That little house overlooking the sea hadn’t heard a commotion like this for god knows how long.

For the first time in what felt like an eternity, visitors freely entered its humble abode filling its empty halls with the bustling sound of life.

“Darling. I am so sorry about your apartment.” Rarity cooed over to her friend who had lost much of her material belongings giving her a loving hug. “But I am so so sooo happy that you’re alright. Honestly darling. When Rainbow Dash told us what happened we were practically livid. Thankfully I was as calm as a cat the whole time.”

“Oh that’s a hogy baloney.” Applejack scoffed, rolling her eyes at her. “You were so worried you were practically running around the house like a cow with its tail on fire. I had to hose you down with the cider spray to calm you down.”

“And mess up my favorite pajamas. Thank you very much.”

Sunset opened her mouth to speak but was stopped when Pinkie Pie shoved her a tray of treats. “Can I offer you a complimentary Cheer-you-up-Cupcake?” She offered with a soft smile to which her friend gladly accepted.

“We’re all just glad that you’re safe.” Fluttershy cooed, holding onto Sunset’s shoulder in assurance. “Even Ray was worried about you too so I brought him over to keep you company.” She brought out the pet lizard which gleefully nuzzled on the redhead’s cheeks. The little yellow fella had been staying in the animal shelter for quite some time now. Sunset wanted to bring him home but she didn’t have the ability or capacity to care for another life. At least not yet. “He says that he misses you a lot.”

“Aw… I miss you too buddy.”

“I still can’t believe that Hoity would go so far… and all for this thing.” Twilight still couldn’t wrap her head around it while her hand shivered over the Portal Stone. “We need to keep this out of their hands. At least until we know what to do with it. When I saw your apartment on fire, I was really scared. I tried to call you but your phone kept going to voicemail.”

“Yeah. Kinda left my phone in the apartment. Along with everything else. I’m just glad those shadow monsters didn’t go after any of you guys.”

“Me too.” Fluttershy shivered at the thought of having creepy monsters attack her in the dead of night. It got so bad that she had to sleep with a flashlight under her pillow. “I don’t know what I’d do if that would happen to me.”

“We’re with you on that Sugar Cube. Though I gotta say that you got a sweet deal over it.” Applejack gestured to the fancy gig she was given. “You got to stay at one of the nicest looking place I’ve seen in years. And believe me, Uncle Cobbler’s place is pretty fancy.”

“Flash was offering so I thought I’d take it. Besides, it’s only temporary. Until I find another place I can rent for cheap.”

“I’ll loan you my brother’s binder.” Twilight offered. “But the bigger question is… what do we do now? We’re not just gonna strike back at Hoity, are we?”

“No… we stick to the plan.” Sunset stood up, turning to her friends. “We’ve been talking about finding a place for all of us to feel safe. Well Flash was generous enough to offer this big house for us to use.”

“This whole place?” Fluttershy gasped. The house alone didn’t look all that impressive on the inside but you can imagine it would cost a small fortune to a buyer.

“Yup. I thought maybe we can convert it to our non-official club house.”

“Does that mean we get to check in one of those private rooms?” Rarity asked eyes gleaming. “If so then I’m definitely in. Though this place will need a bit of sprucing up before we can consider it livable.”

“Everything but the big bedroom upstairs is free game. So if anything happens we’ll use this place as somewhere to lay low.”

“Finally decided to take his hand rather than swat it away like you always do, eh Sunset?” Applejack added earning chuckle from the gang and an embarrassed look from the redhead. “But I’m in. It’ll be nice hanging out together like this. And if this shadow monsters are tougher than the last batch then I’d rather fight them here than at home. The last thing my folks want is another burnt out barn. And I don’t think Big Mac can take another hit like that. So yeah. I can see myself moving in. Speaking of Flash… where is he?”

“I sent him and Rainbow Dash to take care of a few errands for me. But like I said, we have free reign of the house.”

“Oh OH!” Fluttershy raised her hand up like a student in class. “Can I have the room at the back? I like the view of the ocean.”

"Dibs on that one too!" Pinkie followed suit pulling Fluttershy in a bear hug. "Roomies for life!"

“Deal. Anyone else?”

“Me.” Twilight raised her hand next. “As much as I like to stay with you all here. You guys do know I’m still moving in with Timber, right? I can’t just bail on him on the last minute.”

“Twilight. This is to keep all of us safe.” Sunset reasoned. “Do you really want Timber to experience a shadow monster attack?”

“No… but I kinda made a promise with him already. And I really want to try it out. You know? Like a trial run.”

She had a point there but that wasn’t a good enough reason to put someone else in danger.

But then Sunset grew a smirk. “Well… I guess we won’t be using the library wing around here.”

Twilight froze. “Library wing?”

…

The girl was led to deeper end of the house through a door that led to what looked like the study room. An array of bookshelves revealed themselves before her with all of its tomes of knowledge decked out for her viewing pleasure.

Sunset eyed her best friend giving her a knowing look. “Well? What do you think?”

“I call dibs on the middle room.” She answered not taking her eyes off the room for even a second.

Pinkie let out a cheer blowing a party whistle. “Awww yeah! You all know what this means?” She grinned at them expectantly. “Cleaning montage! Hit it!”