//------------------------------// // Chapter 2 - A relaxing vacation // Story: A Blackened Sunset // by MLPSolarDash1907 //------------------------------// After Copper had helped Sunset, a couple of nights later, Celestia invited him into her private quarters to join her and Sunset with tea. He was very taken by the offer and enjoyed quality time with them. After her wound healed, Sunset did end up keeping her promise and meeting Copper after classes. The duo researched for homework talked about magic and the secrets Starswirl has when he created over two hundred spells. One day, Sunset decided to show Copper the Canterlot Archives and he showed interest in the complex spells and incomplete spells Starswirl didn’t complete before his disappearance. “How come you’re allowed back here?” he asked, looking around at the many scrolls stacked on the shelves. “Celestia’s personal protégé, remember?” Sunset playfully smirked. Copper blinked, “Oh.” The days went on and both ponies continued meeting and catching up at lunch or after class. Copper, as it turns out, really does care about being Sunset’s friend and wanting to get to know her like she’s anypony else. He’s kind, smart, knowledgeable in magic, and has a good heart. Sure, he’s somewhat shy, nervous, and anti-social, but his confidence around Sunset showed as they got to know one another better. Sunset showed how competitive she can be with her board games and beat him several times, only for Copper to win one round and him panic when he did so, but Sunset was proud of him and congratulated him. Copper showed his interest in playing musical instruments and has written a few songs himself. He did it for personal reasons, not for fame or fortune. Sunset allowed him to play some songs for her and she found them wonderful, much to the blushing and somewhat embarrassed Copper. The student body took note of Copper hanging out with Sunset, and some tried to make their move to be friends with Sunset, but they didn’t accept Sunset as just another pony and they were rejected calmly or forcefully by the mare. Every day both of them hung out, Celestia noticed them and smiled proudly every time before leaving to attend to teach. The days turned into a couple of weeks, by now the two ponies were happy to see one another when they got out of class. However, spring break is coming up in a day, and Sunset is annoyed by that. She didn’t plan on doing anything for the spring other than studying. That is until Copper came to her one day. At her tower, Sunset sat at her desk, reading one of Haycartes’ spellbooks. She raised an eyebrow at one of them. “A spell to get inside of a book?” she asked herself, “That sounds a little silly.” She heard somepony knocking on the door. Sunset looked to it, huffed in annoyance, and went back to her book. More knocks came from the door. “Please go away...” she mumbled. The knocking stopped and didn’t return for about ten seconds. Sunset let out a breath before going back to her book. And the knocks returned. “Ugh!” Sunset stood up and stomped over to the door with a scowl on her face. She opened it harshly, growling only to see a surprised Copper stepping back out of the door’s way. Her look immediately softened, “Copper?” “Oh, I’m sorry,” he said awkwardly, rubbing his foreleg, “Was I disturbing you?” Clearing her throat and standing straight she answered, “What? No.” “It took you a while to answer.” “I was in my own little world,” Sunset waved him off, “Did you need something?” “Not really...” Copper replied. “Oh,” Sunset raised an eyebrow, “Then what is it?” “Well...” Copper took a breath in, “My family is going on a vacation and a couple of my sister’s friends are coming. I didn’t have any friends until... I met you. And I was wondering... if you’d like to come?” He asked that last part with trepidation. “A vacation? To where?” Sunset asked curiously. “To Horseshoe Bay.” Sunset’s eyes widened, “The best beaches in all of Equestria?” “Not just beaches,” Copper smiled, “We get pools, the sun rises and sets over the water, exotic smoothies, food, spas and so much more!” Sunset’s eyes were slightly sparkling with anticipation, but then she shook her head, frowning. “Thanks, but I need to get back to studying, I don’t...” “Oh, come on, Sunset!” Copper smiled, “I know you love magic, but there’s no harm in taking some time off. You’ve seen how studious I am, haven’t you?” That was true, he did have great grades and could cast some powerful spells. “Besides, haven’t you been having fun? I just think this’ll be a great time for you,” Copper stated. Sunset didn’t respond, she looked to be thinking about it. “I mean, if you want to stay... that’ll be fine too. I promise I won’t be offended.” Surprised again, Sunset saw that he had an understanding smile yet hopeful eyes as he looked at her. Every break she would hang out with her parents or study, but now without them, she can’t do that. Maybe, if she hung out with them, she could get the feeling of being around her parents again. She thought back to Celestia’s teachings and the princess was wanting her to have some fun whilst at her school, there’s more to life than magic. Finally, Sunset smiled, “All right. I’ll go with you and your family!” “Great!” Copper beamed, pumping a hoof into the air, “I’ll meet you at the Canterlot train station to meet my family and then we’ll be off!” When Sunset told Celestia that she would be going on this vacation, the princess was very happy and proud of her student. This also meant she could possibly make some new friends. Sunset seemed a little uncertain as usual but she promised she’d try. Eventually, Sunset packed her suitcase of necessities and clothes for the beach (her mother gave them to her for her birthday) and headed off to the train station. She and Copper greeted one another once again before Sunset met Copper’s mother, father, and sister. All of them were surprised their son managed to get Sunset as his friend and were eager to get to know her. Soon, Copper’s sister’s friends arrived, who were three mares and they nearly fainted when they learned who Sunset is. The family and friends boarded the train to Horseshoe Bay, Sunset learned where they’ll be is on the right side of the Bay where you can see the sunrise on the east side and set on the west side, something she found very fascinating. The family she talked to were friendly as were the sister’s friends, and these ponies didn’t try to take advantage of Sunset’s popularity. That afternoon, the train arrived at Horseshoe Bay. On one side of the land, there was the ocean with waves rolling in, while the water inland was completely calm. It had clear turquoise water where you could see some multicolored coral reefs. The beaches had pure white sand all while some hotels, houses, and motels sat close to the water. The family and company stepped out and took in the amazing sight of the blue ocean, sky, and green palm trees. After checking into their hotel, everypony made it clear what they wanted to do. Copper’s parents went golfing while his sister and his friends went swimming alongside the coral reef. Sunset dragged Copper to play volleyball, both were terrible but they had fun. Later they felt hot, they went swimming and enjoyed not having to worry about the waves. They got close to some fish and even touched a couple. Soon, the sun began setting and the family met to have some of the exotic food, but Sunset enjoyed it and thanked Copper and his family for allowing her to come on this trip. The next few days, the family went walking along the nature trails to see the beautiful wildlife from toucans, green macaws, red macaws, flamingoes, iguanas, and snakes, to which Copper panicked and ran away from. Copper’s dad was able to afford to let himself, Sunset, and Copper go snorkeling among the fish instead of being a short distance down. The minute they got down there, a school of shiny silver fish swam all around them in a fish tornado, amazing them. Swimming along the multicolored coral reefs and seeing multitudes of fish, turtles, seahorses, and sea stars on the ocean floor was a sight to see. Sunset swam a little further from shore and had an incredible encounter with a blue whale, followed by dolphins which she was able to swim alongside. Following their underwater dancing, there were some ponies doing hula dances around a fire. Copper was able to get Sunset into joining him and they had a great time. As the days went on, Sunset connected some with Copper’s sister’s friends, enjoyed a hot air balloon ride with the family, and relaxing by the pool, all while they did so, Copper began to appreciate Sunset more. While he always had a small thing for her, those feelings began to grow. Her personality, her willingness to do hard work in terms of magic, and teasing ponies when she wants to, all appealed to him. When they were on the beach and the sun shined on the beautiful orange mare, her coat seemed to shine almost gold and her mane looked like fire following her and flowing behind her in the wind. Sunset nearly caught him looking at her a few times, but he began wondering why he kept looking at her as he did. What he didn’t know, is that Sunset had her occasional glances at him too. Not as much, but she began to appreciate Copper more, his selflessness, his humble heart, and caring attitude. On the fourth day of their visit, when Copper won her a prize, she was ecstatic and hugged him, freezing him in complete shock. When she pulled back, she laughed at his look, but he snapped out of it and quickly wrapped his forelegs around her, and she returned the hug. On the last day of their trip and having to get back to classes the next day, Sunset and Copper are sitting on some chairs overlooking the beach as the sun was setting. Its beautiful golden color streamed onto the ponies as it cast colors of red, purple, and orange, and above that was a dark blue sky. “Beautiful isn’t it?” Copper asked. “Yes, it is,” replied Sunset as she straightened her seashell necklace, “I’ve never seen a sunset like this in Canterlot.” “I always love to watch the sunrise and set whenever I can, it’s truly one of the finest in all creation,” said Copper. Sunset smiled, “Yeah.” Both were silent for a minute until Sunset chuckled. “Remember how that fish got into your mother’s bathing suit and we had to...” she snorted, “Fish it out?” Copper let out a light laugh, “It was hilarious, I don’t think I’ve ever seen Mom freak out so much like that.” He paused, “I still wonder how it could’ve gotten in there...” Sunset shrugged, “I have no idea.” Copper smiled, “Well, don’t let Mom we still laugh over that, she’ll never live it down.” “Oh, there’s always the chance to tease her about it,” Sunset winked, “Besides, she needs a little lightening up from the work you told me she does.” “Yep.” “Well, I’ve truly enjoyed this vacation,” Sunset admitted as she stretched a bit before sinking back into the chair, “The best one I’ve ever had.” “Yeah, me too,” Copper blushed, looking away slightly. “So, when we get back what do you want to do? I mean we can find a project we could work on,” Sunset offered. “Geez, can’t you pretend that we aren’t heading back?” Copper slightly teased. “Hey, I like to be prepared.” “Maybe, but just enjoy these last few moments, we can worry about everything else after this evening.” “Yeah, you’re right,” replied Sunset. She smiled again, “The time we spent together, the volleyball game, swimming, the fish, dolphins and everything else...” Her smile grew, “I enjoyed it all.” She leaned a little closer, “And... I must say that...” She sighed, frowned then pulled away. “What is it?” Copper asked. Normally Sunset would put it off, but the past few weeks of hanging out with Copper and now his family for an entire week just caused her to trust him. She had grown to accept him as a real friend, and it seems she’s adding six other ponies to her list. With an assuring look from Copper, for a minute, Sunset let her guard down. “When you first helped me and talked to me...” Sunset began, “My parents weren’t contacting me or even coming to visit like they used to...” “What?” Copper asked, surprised, and saddened. “Yeah, I was just focused on getting my work done, passing classes, and just getting wisdom from Celestia...” Sunset paused for a minute, “But now...when you came and offered me this vacation, I was surprised and hesitant.” She smiled again, “But thanks to you, I feel as if... I’m complete again. For that, I’m grateful, Copper.” She scooted closer to him, “Thank you so much.” “O-Oh you’re welcome,” replied Copper, slightly blushing, “But I’m sorry that happened to you, Sunset.” “Yeah, me too...” Sunset’s smile slightly dropped, “But this was truly delightful.” “Well, I’m going to make a promise to you, Sunset,” Copper said with a firm look, smirking, “I promise you, that no matter what we go through, we’ll face it together and I won’t ever leave you.” He nodded with confidence, something Sunset picked up on. The mare’s heart swelled with happiness and pride for the friend she’s chosen, so they shook hooves. “Deal!” she said boldly. With that said, both scooted a little closer to one another and gazed back out at the sunset, the sun just barely over the horizon. “It’ kind of like you, Sunset,” said Copper. Sunset giggled, “Why?” “I don’t know, it’s your name,” Copper smiled. “Yep, you’re right about that. It’s pretty isn’t it?” “Yes,” then he muttered, “But not as pretty as you...” “What was that?” Turning beet red, he stammered out, “N-Nothing! I was just saying it’s pretty.” Sunset only smirked in response. The next few hours saw the two ponies go back to their motel and play a few board games and card games with Copper’s family and company. After that, they had a relaxing night cruise along the shore, taking in the beautiful twinkling stars and the full moon as it glowed beautifully in the sky. The next morning, everypony headed home with a bunch of souvenirs and pictures that they’ll remember forever. When they got back to Canterlot, Copper’s family and company said goodbye to Sunset before they went on their way back home. Sunset, deciding to escort Copper home, Copper made their way to the School’s barracks. “Why did they bid you farewell? Don’t you live in Canterlot?” Sunset asked. “Not exactly,” replied Copper as they came upon his barrack, “My family and I are originally from Vanhoover, so getting to go on this trip was a real miracle that pulled off in the end.” He smiled, “Thank Celestia.” “It sounds like it.” “And... I’m glad you came along,” replied Copper, blushing a bit. Sunset slightly blushed as well, “Me too.” They were silent for a bit, standing underneath the afternoon sun, oblivious to the world around them. Sunset’s heart fluttered a bit, her cheeks warming up a little bit as well. “Well,” Sunset spoke up, snapping out of it, “I should be going.” “O-Oh, right!” replied Copper, “Thanks for walking me home.” “You did for me, so why shouldn’t I return the favor?” Sunset smiled. “Right.” For another minute, they didn’t speak. Sunset didn’t immediately walk away or even consider it. Her eyes couldn’t leave this stallion for all he’s done for her and for becoming her very first friend. Thinking of something, her heart pounded a little more before she slightly gulped and took a small, hesitant step forward. Copper didn’t seem to notice until... Sunset placed a kiss on his cheek. He stiffened like a board and blushed furiously while Sunset pulled back with her own blush. She giggled at his reaction. She winked, “S-See you later, alligator.” Sweet Celestia, did I just say that? Sunset began walking off, still looking at the stiff stallion before he placed a hoof gently onto his cheek. Then, a smile spread across his face as Sunset turned around a corner. She let a few seconds pass before she looked back around the corner to see Copper jumping up and down for joy. She giggled softly to herself, “Oh, Copper.”