"Feeling better?" Twilight asked as she and Sunset left the restaurant.
"Much better," Rubbed her belly in satisfaction. "I didn't realize I was so hungry. Thanks again, Twilight."
"My pleasure."
Sunset smiled. "So now that we got breakfast out of the way, where's our first stop for my tour of Ponyville?"
"Well, I was thinking we'd start you off with something familiar."
"Sounds good. What is it?"
"Haha. You'll see."
"Hmph," Sunset pouted. "Playing that game again, are we?"
"I'm sorry, Sunset, but I'm just following your example," Twilight leaned in with a bit of a glare. "No. Spoilers."
"...Touché," Sunset turned her head forward in defeat. As she looked on, Sunset noticed something that really surprised her. "Hey, T-Twilight..."
"Hmm? What is it, Sunset?"
"Speaking of familiar..." Sunset pointed her hoof toward the object of her attention. "Is that...?"
Twilight looked toward the direction of Sunset's hoof to see a smiling pink pony happily trotting down the path towards them.
"Oh. Hehe. Yes, Sunset. That's her," Twilight confirmed. "She's heading our way. Why don't you introduce yourself?"
Sunset excitedly nodded. "Sure!" Sunset waited for the pony come closer. When Sunset and pony finally crossed paths, Sunset extended her hoof to greet her. "Hi, Pinkie Pie!"
Pinkie stared at Sunset for a moment, gasped, and quickly ran away, leaving behind a trail of dust.
"..............Was it something I said?" Sunset sounded a little heartbroken.
"No, no," Twilight wrapped her foreleg around Sunset's shoulder. "She just...wasn't prepared to meet you."
"Are you sure?" Sunset looked toward the direction Pinkie left. "She just ran away."
"It's not what you think," Twilight comforted. "Look, we'll see her again later, and you'll see that everything is all right."
Sunset met Twilight's eyes. "Promise?"
"I promise," Twilight assured. "Do you think you'll be okay?"
"Yeah...I'll be fine," Sunset wiped her eyes. "Let's go. The day isn't getting any younger."
"All right then. Follow me."
Sunset followed Twilight away from Ponyville's main market place and into its more rural area. The homes of ponies were gradually disappearing, being replaced by fields upon fields of trees. It definitely felt familiar to Sunset. Soon, Sunset saw that Twilight had led her to none other than-
"Sweet Apple Acres," Sunset facehoofed herself. "I should've known."
"Ha. I told you were going somewhere familiar, didn't I?"
"Eeyup," Sunset said in a deep voice. "And this entire scene definitely feels familiar," In more ways than one for some reason.
"Indeed," Twilight and Sunset entered Sweet Apple Acres. "Though, I'm sure you've noticed few differences already."
"Oh yeah. I notice a severe lack of stables in this place," Sunset noticed they were heading toward the Apple house. "I take it we're here so I can meet Applejack?"
"Eeyup," Great, now I'M doing it! "But I'm also here to give you a little history lesson."
"A history lesson? Here?" Didn't expect that. "I'm listening."
Twilight cleared her throat. "A long time ago, before Ponyville was created, a group of pilgrim ponies traveled far and wide across Equestria, collecting and selling many different kinds of seeds they encountered during their journeys. One day, the pilgrim ponies had arrived to the most beautiful, most magnificent city in all the land: Canterlot. The pilgrim ponies were amazed at just how rich and regal Canterlot was. They had never seen anything like it before, and they never thought they would see anything quiet so royal again," Twilight smiled. "That is, until they saw the one and only Princess Celestia."
"Princess Celestia was being charioted across the marketplace when she saw the pilgrim ponies, who presented her with their finest collection of seeds. As she was thanking them, Princess Celestia noticed how tired and hungry the pilgrim ponies were. Feeling the need to help these most kind of subjects, Princess Celestia pointed them to a spot of land near the Everfree Forest, telling them that if they settled there, they would grow a farm that was rich in fruit and would last for generations."
"The pilgrim ponies thanked Princess Celestia and journeyed to the land of promised fruit. They soon reached their destination and settled in by building a small house using some wood from the trees of the Everfree Forest. At first, living on the new land proved difficult as their crops were taking time to grow, and they were very hungry. But after time, theirs seed grew and formed an amazing orchard of apple trees. With the apples, the pilgrim ponies made many different delicacies that not only fed them but also attracted other ponies from different parts of Equestria."
"Many ponies traveled there to try the delicious apple products the pilgrim ponies made. Some of the ponies liked the products and the land so much they decided to stay there. Houses, businesses, and families soon erected all over the land. The once small-populated settlement became a community of different kinds of ponies from all three tribes, something Equestria had not yet seen. In light of this new development, the ponies of this special new community decided to name their new home 'Ponyville'," Twilight finished her story as she and Sunset stood before Apple house.
"Amazing," Was the only response Sunset could think of. "So you mean to tell me that in this world, Sweet Apple Acres is the reason Ponyville exists?"
"Mm-hmm. It all started at this very house," Twilight pointed at the Apple house. "Of course, that was just my version of Ponyville's history. If you want to hear a more authentic version, ask Granny Smith."
"What? Is she a historian in this world?"
"Haha. No. She was one was one of pilgrim ponies that first settled here."
"She was?!" Sunset's jaw dropped. "How is that even-?! How could she be-?! How old IS she?"
"Nopony knows, but she's still around."
"...Wow," Sunset took a minute. "Well, thanks for bringing me here, Twilight. I really liked your story."
"My pleasure Sunset, but let's not say 'farewell' to this farm just yet."
"Why not?"
"Twilight!" A familiar voice called from behind Sunset, making Twilight smile.
Sunset closed her eyes and nodded. "Oh yeah."
"Twilight!" Applejack called as she galloped. "Twilight, Ah thought Ah saw you from the distance," Applejack trotted to a halt by the other two ponies. "Now, who do we have here?"
"Applejack, I'd like you to meet Sunset Shimmer."
Sunset slowed offered her hoof. "...Hello. It's a pleas-"
"Well, howdy there, Sunset Shimmer!" Applejack abruptly took Sunset's hoof and began to aggressively shake it and Sunset. "Ah'm Applejack! Heard so much about you! A pleasure finally makin' your acquaintance! Welcome! We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like makin' new friends!" Applejack let go though Sunset did not stop shaking.
Well, at least she's not running away. "Nice to meet you too, Applejack," Sunset forced her leg to stop moving.
"Well now, why don't we all head on inside? Wouldn't be right if Ah left my guests out here under the hot sun," Applejack made her way to her doorstep. "Come on in," Sunset and Twilight followed Applejack through the front door of her home and into her dining room. "Have a seat. Make yourselves comfy."
"Thank you."
"Thanks."
"My pleasure. Now if you'll just excuse me for a moment," Applejack walked toward the diner's exit and yelled out. "Everypony downstairs! We have guests!"
Upon Applejack's announcement, the sound of hoofsteps began to echo throughout the house. The sounds grew louder as Sunset could make out the shadows of ponies descending down the staircase. The shadows disappeared and were replaced with three ponies of various sizes whose faces Sunset recognized all too well.
"We're here! We're here!"
"Eeyup."
"Ah'm a comin'. Ah'm a comin'."
"Sunset," Applejack wrapped a leg around Sunset's shoulder as each of the three ponies took a seat. "Allow me to introduce you to Apple Bloom, Big Macintosh, and Granny Smith."
"Hi!"
"Eeyup."
"How do you do?"
"Apples, this here is Sunset Shimmer. She's Twilight's visitor from out of town."
"Pleased to meet you," Sunset waved.
"It's so nice meet you!' Apple Bloom replied, sounding quite giddy. "Ah'm Apple Bloom, though Ah'm guessin' you already knew that. Hehe. Ah've heard so much about you! Tell me, are you really from another world?!"
"Haha," Aw, she's adorable. "I'm actually from Canterlot, but I live in another world."
"That's so cool! What's it like?!"
"Apple Bloom," Applejack sternly said. "Mind your manners."
"Oh," Apple Bloom drooped. "Ah'm sorry."
"Ha. It's all right, Applejack. I don't mind," Sunset assured as she turned her attention back to Apple Bloom. "It's both very similar and very different from Equestria. Everyone there acts a lot like the ponies here, but almost nobod-pony has any magic or any wings, and the ponies there look very...different."
"Wow," Apple Bloom eyes shined. "That's so cool!"
Sunset smiled at the little filly. "Glad you think so."
"So Sunset," Applejack spoke. "This is your first time comin' to Ponyville, right? What do you think of our little ole town so far?"
Sunset smiled. "It's wonderful."
"Happy to hear that, Sunset," Applejack tipped her hat. "We here at Ponyville try our best to make our guests feel welcome."
Sunset smiled.
"Speakin' of makin' our guests feel welcome," Granny Smith spoke up. "Have you offered our guests any refreshments, Applejack?"
"Oh, horse shoes! How could I have forgotten?! Pardon me," Applejack ran to the pantry and quickly returned carrying many snacks. "Are you two hungry? We've got-" Applejack began to drop the snacks in front of Sunset. "Apple pie, apple fritters, apple tarts, apple dumplings, apple crisp, apple crumblers, and apple brown betty!"
Sunset just stared at the mountain of apple food that before her. "Thanks but Twilight took me to eat before we came."
The Apples responded with a collective "Aw."
"Are you sure you don't have any room for brunch?" Apple Bloom asked. "Ah made the pie just for you."
"I'm sorry. It's not that I don't want it, it's just that I already..." Sunset looked into Apple Bloom's puppy-eyes. "You know what? I actually do feel like having some dessert."
The Apples cheered with a collective "Yay!"
As Applejack began to pass the food around the table, Sunset turned to Twilight and whispered. "They sure are friendly."
"Mm-hmm," Twilight nodded.
"Enjoy," Applejack passed Sunset her plate. "Would you like anythin' else, Sunset?"
"No, thank you. This is more than-" A thought suddenly popped into Sunset's head. "Actually..." Sunset turned her attention to Granny Smith. "Hey Granny Smith, were you really part of the pilgrim ponies that founded Ponyville"
"Sure am."
"I would really like to hear your story about that if you don't mind."
"Oh! Ah love that story!" Apple Bloom added.
"Hehe. Well, why not?" Granny Smith answered.
Sunset passed a quick smile to Twilight who responded with a little wink.
The table's occupants turned their attention to Granny Smith as she began her story. "Long ago, when Ah was a little pony..."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Thanks for everything!" Twilight shouted.
"It was really nice meeting all of you!" Sunset waved.
"You're welcome!" Applejack answered. "It was nice meetin' you, too! Come back soon!" Applejack and the rest of the Apples waved goodbye.
"Of course! Bye!" Sunset and Twilight began to walk out of Sweet Apple Acres. Once they made it past the gates, Twilight decided to check up on her friend.
"How are you feeling?" Twilight asked.
Sunset gagged. "I think I ate too much pie."
"Haha. I know that feeling," Twilight patted Sunset's shoulder. "Think you'll be okay?"
"I think I'll be fine in a little while. Just please don't show me any more food."
"I'll try."
Sunset took a few deep breaths and stood upright. "I like them. They're really friendly," Sunset's stomach churned. "Perhaps too friendly. They're definitely a lot like the other Apples, only Big Macintosh is a lot more red here."
"Ha. I actually thought the same thing when I met the other Macintosh. It looked like Apple Bloom really liked you."
"Must be my magnetic personality," Sunset joked. "She kept asking me about the other world."
"You didn't seem to mind."
"Well, I can't say I blame her. How would you react to meeting a pony from another world?"
"Very true. I probably would've asked more questions than she did."
"Eeeexactly," Sunset elbowed Twilight. "So, where are we heading next?"
"We're actually near where we're supposed to be," Twilight looked up the sky. "Hmm. But I don't see her anywhere."
Sunset looked around as well, finding nothing but clouds and the sun. "Who are you looking for?"
"Rainbow Dash," Twilight answered. "She's supposed to be clearing the sky in this area right now, but I don't see her."
Rainbow Dash?! Sunset looked around again. "I don't see her either. Where could she be?"
"She's got to be around here somewhere. Keep a looking. Let me know if you see anything."
"Will do," Sunset resumed searching. I don't see her anywhere. What could she possibly be do-
*WHACK!* Sunset was suddenly tackled to the ground by some great, aerial force.
"Sunset!" Twilight shrieked.
"I think I found her..." Sunset mumbled.
"Rainbow Dash!" A small voice called from behind Twilight. "Are you okay?!"
"I'm fine, Scootaloo," Rainbow picked herself up and flexed out her wings. "Looks like I still got some practice to do on that one."
"Looks like it," Scootaloo caught up to mares. "But still, that was awesome!"
"You think so?" Rainbow Dash looked a little smug. "Well, I guess I do have that kind of-"
"Rain. Bow. Dash," Twilight scolded.
"Huh? Oh, hey Twilight! What's up?" Twilight pointed her hoof at the unicorn lying on ground. "Oh...Whoops," Rainbow helped Sunset get back on her feet. "Hehehe...Excuse me."
"Are you all right, Sunset?" Twilight sounded worried.
"I'm fine. A little dizzy but fine," Sunset then turned her attention to her assailant. "That's one way to introduce yourself."
"Hehe. Sorry about that. I was working on a new trick, and I guess I overshot the final turn."
"I see," It's really not something I'm not used to with the other you. Sunset dusted herself off and extended her foreleg. "I'm Sunset Shimmer. You must be Rainbow Dash."
"The one and only," Rainbow gave Sunset a hoof bump. "High flyer, daredevil, and proud member of the Wonderbolts."
"So I've heard," Sunset turned her attention to the other pegasus. "And you must be Scootaloo."
"Yup! That's me!" Sunset gave Scootaloo a hoof bump. "Are you friend of Rainbow Dash?"
"Ha. Not yet, but I hope to be. Looks like you are, though."
"I am," Scootaloo nodded.
"Are you her sister?"
Scootaloo shyly kicked the ground. "Ha. Yeah, you could say that."
Sunset chuckled. It's cute wherever she does it.
"Haha. All right, all right. 'Nough teasing," Rainbow came in. "So, you're Twilight's fillyfriend, huh? It's about time you came for a visit. Twilight hasn't stop blabbing about you since the last time she crossed the portal."
"Rainbow!" Twilight flushed.
"Haha," Same sense of humor. "I've been meaning to, but things have been really busy for me on the other side. My school work just seems to pile up the second I even think about coming for a visit."
"Come on, school shouldn't be taking up that much of your time."
"Sorry Rainbow, but I like to give my absolute best effort to all of my responsibilities," Sunset began to smirk. "Unlike some ponies."
"Hey," Rainbow sensed an insult. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"Aren't you supposed to be in charge of maintaining the weather in Ponyville?"
"Yeah? So?"
"So," Sunset looked up. "Twilight told me that the sky is supposed to be clear for my visit, yet I see a lot of clouds floating around up there."
"Is that all? Don't worry, I'll clear it up after me and Scootaloo are done practicing."
"Why can't you do it now?" Sunset challenged.
"I said I'd do it later."
"What's the matter? You afraid you'll embarrass yourself in front of me?"
"Hey," Rainbow Dash had enough. "I can clear the sky in ten seconds flat."
"Is that all?" Sunset shook her head. "Please. I expected a lot more from a Wonderbolt."
Rainbow Dash gave Sunset one intense stare. "Scootaloo, get the timer ready," Scootaloo pulled out her stopwatch. "Just WATCH me."
"Aaaand..." Scootaloo prepared. "Go!"
Rainbow Dash skyrocketed into the air and began to eliminate every cloud over Ponyville. Rainbow would kick one cloud into oblivion and then speed across the sky to kick another. One by one, the clouds of Ponyville disappeared until there was nothing left but a clear blue sky.
"Time!" Rainbow Dash descended down near the others. "How fast was that?"
Scootaloo checked her stopwatch. "Eight and a half seconds!"
"Ha!" Rainbow gloated. "That fast enough for ya, Sunset?!"
Sunset was speechless. "That...was...AMAZING! You so were quick! I-I mean I knew you were fast, but I didn't think you were this fast! The way you soared through the sky, I-I've never seen anything like it! Rainbow Dash, I think you're fastest flyer, no, the fastest pony I've ever seen!"
"Yeah, yeah," Rainbow rubbed her hoof on her chest. "I know. Listen, I'd love stay here and chat," Rainbow hovered over to her sidekick. "But Scootaloo and I have some more practice to do," Rainbow began to fly away. "Cool meeting ya, Sunset. We should hangout some more some time. Catch ya later!" Rainbow Dash flew away.
"Nice meeting you, Sunset," Scootaloo hopped on her scooter. "See ya!" Scootaloo rode after Rainbow Dash. "Hey, wait up!"
"Bye!" Sunset waved as Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo disappeared into the distance.
Twilight trotted up beside Sunset, giggling. "Why'd you do that?"
"Hmm? Do what?" Sunset innocently asked.
"Haha. You know. I've told you how fast Rainbow Dash is in this world. Why'd you challenge her like that?"
Sunset shrugged. "I just wanted to see it for myself. You weren't kidding. Rainbow Dash is definitely the fastest pony I've seen. She's definitely Wonderbolt material."
"I see," Twilight giggled. "Just promise me you won't challenge Rarity to make the most beautiful dress you've ever seen."
"Oh, she's next on your list?"
"Mm-hmm."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Wow," Sunset admired the exterior design of the Carousel Boutique. "Now this place looks pretty fancy."
"Haha. Just wait until you see the inside," Twilight chuckled as she knocked on Carousel Boutique's door.
"Could you get that, Sweetie Belle? I'm a little occupied at the moment."
"Sure!" Twilight and Sunset heard hoofsteps coming closer to the door. The Carousel Boutique's doors opened to reveal the smiling young unicorn, Sweetie Belle, ready to greet just about anypony.
"Hello, Sweetie Belle," Twilight greeted.
"Hi, Twilight!' Sweetie Belle looked past Twilight. "Hi, Spike! Wait..." Sweetie stared at Sunset. "Heeeey, you're not Spike," Sweetie tapped her chin. "And you're not Starlight, neither. Who are you?"
"Hehe. No, sorry. My name is Sunset Shimmer."
"Ooooh, that's right," Sweetie bopped her head. "Rarity said that you and Twilight were coming for a visit," Sweetie smiled. "I'm Sweetie Belle. Nice to meet you, Sunset Shimmer."
"Ha. Nice to meet you too, Sweetie Belle," She's so cute. "May we come inside?"
"Sure! Right this way, please," Sunset and Twilight followed Sweetie Belle inside. "Wait here. I'll be right back," Sweetie Belle ran upstairs.
After Sweetie left, Sunset decided to take a stroll around the Carousel Boutique. Sunset admired the boutique's interior decor and unique gowns so much, she couldn't help but whistle. "Very impressive. This is a dress shop if I've ever saw one."
Sunset and Twilight heard a faint knock coming from the second floor. "Who was it, Sweetie Belle?"
"It's Twilight and her friend. They're here to see you."
"Already?! My word, they've arrived much sooner than I expected. Tell them I'll be down soon. I'm just about finished here."
"Okay!" Sweetie Belle ran back downstairs. "She'll be here shortly. She's just finishing up one of her dresses."
"That's fine," Twilight said. "Thank you, Sweetie Belle."
"You're welcome," Sweetie Belle trotted over to Sunset. "Are you really Twilight's very special somepony, Sunset?"
Sunset giggled. Well, she's not beating around the bush. "Yes," Sunset answered with a bit of a blush. "I am."
"Aw. That's so sweet," Sweetie hummed.
"Why, thank you Sweetie Belle," Sunset smiled.
"You're welcome. But why are you here visiting my sister? Shouldn't you and Twilight be on a romantic dinner date by the beach or something?"
Sunset amusingly rolled her eyes. Yup, definitely Rarity's sister. "Well, Twilight and I thought it would be a good idea for me to meet all her friends here in Ponyville."
"Oh, okay. That way they'll be your friends, too."
"Exactly."
"That's really nice," Sweetie Belle drooped a little. "I'm sorry my sister isn't ready yet. She doesn't mean to be late."
"I don't mind. I can tell she's a busy mare," Sunset looked around the Carousel Boutique again. "I really like your sister's work."
"Really?"
"Totally," Sunset strolled by some of the gowns in the window displays. "Look at these...I haven't seen dresses this beautiful since I was in Canterlot."
Sweetie Belle perked up. "If you really like them, I'm sure my sister would be more than happy to make a dress just for you, Sunset."
Sunset sighed. "That does sound nice Sweetie Belle, but I don't really have any bits right now."
"Awe," Sweetie frowned. "That's too bad."
"I know. Maybe another time, Sweetie Belle."
"You know Sunset," Twilight spoke up. "If you really want one, I could cover the cost."
Sunset gratefully shook her head. "Absolutely not, Twilight."
"I wouldn't mind, Sunset."
"I know you wouldn't, but I would."
"It wouldn't be a problem. I have plenty bits, and I think you'd look wonderful in one of Rarity's dresses."
"Yeah!" Sweetie Belle hopped. "I'm sure you'd look really pretty."
"Hmm. You really think so?" Sunset thought. "Well...these dresses really are nice..."
Twilight and Sweetie slowly leaned in. "Uh-huh."
"And I never really dressed up before back when I lived in Canterlot..."
"Uh-huuuuh."
"And I'm sure Rarity would make the perfect dress just for me..."
"Uh-huuuuuuuuh."
Sunset breathed out. "But still, no."
"Awwwwww."
"I'm sorry Twilight, but I just can't ask that of you," Sunset looked back at the beautiful, teal dress beside her. "It's too much, even if these dresses are soooo..." Sunset turned back to her friends and saw something that really caught her eye. "Gorgeous."
Sunset saw what had to be the most lovely, beautiful pony she had ever laid her eyes on descending from the Canterlot Boutique's staircase. She had a beautifully curled indigo mane, a luscious curly tail, a wonderful snow-white coat, and the most brilliant, gorgeous blue eyes Sunset had ever seen. Just who was this magnificent unicorn?
"Uh," Twilight raised her eyebrow. "What was that Sunset?"
"Is my mane okay?" Sunset asked.
"What?"
"Helloooo," The unicorn reached the bottom floor. "I am so sorry for keeping you all waiting. I was working on one of the most complex orders I have ever had," The unicorn apologized as she approached the group. "You must be Sunset Shimmer," She held out her hoof. "A pleasure finally making your acquaintance. I am Rarity. Though," She giggled. "I'm guessing you already knew that."
Sunset stood there, dumbfounded. She's Equestria's Rarity?! Sweet Celestia...She makes one, beautiful pony. "Uh, yes!" Sunset nervously shook Rarity's hoof. "Yes, I am Sunset Shimmer. Uh, p-pleasure meeting you, too," I was not prepared for this today.
"Twilight has told me so much about you. I am so glad you came to visit."
Sunset lit up. "Really?"
"Of course! Your adventures in the other world just sound so fascinating. I would love to hear more about them from you."
Sunset stuttered. "I-I'd be delighted to tell you more about them."
Twilight glared at the two unicorns. "I'm sorry Sunset, but I don't think we really have any time for-"
"Fantastic!" Rarity beamed. "And in exchange, I'll do something special just for you."
That got Sunset excited. "What?"
"Well, I didn't mean to eavesdrop, but I couldn't help but overhear you having a conversation about my dresses. Do you like them, Sunset?"
"Yes!" Sunset nodded. "I really love your dresses."
"Well, here's what's going to happen; I'm going to make a special dress that's just for you. It will be beautiful, unique, and just for you," Sunset tried to speak. "Don't try to stop me. My decision has been made. I won't take no for an answer."
Twilight didn't seem to like Rarity's offer as much as Sunset did. "That's very generous of you Rarity, but unfortunately, Sunset can't-"
"But I don't have the bits, Rarity," Sunset moped.
"Not a problem," Rarity replied. "I'll make a special dress for you at no charge."
Sweetie Belle hopped in. "That's perfect! Now you can get a dress without having to worry about spending Twilight's money, Sunset!"
"Good thing, too. I think I just remembered I need the bits," Twilight grumbled.
"What was that, Twilight?" Rarity asked.
Twilight put on her straightest face. "I said 'That's great!' Just. Great."
"Oh, that's what I thought you said," Rarity turned her attention back to Sunset. "Now, we'll need to schedule a fitting for you."
"I'm free anytime," Sunset sounded giddy.
"Wonderful!"
"Wow Sunset," Sweetie Belle started. "I bet you're going to look so pretty."
"Indeed," Rarity agreed. "The vision I have for your dress is simply divine. It shall be my greatest creation yet."
"Well...Thank you!" Sunset mustered. "It'd be an honor to wear one of your dresses."
Rarity giggled and turned to Twilight. "Oh Twilight, she's wonderful."
Twilight glared. "Yup. Absolutely magnificent."
"In fact," Rarity got an idea. "How about we all go to spa in celebration of our new friendship?"
Sunset and Sweetie Belle beamed at Rarity's idea, but Twilight didn't seem too enthusiastic.
"Thank you Rarity, but Sunset and I are on a very tight schedule," Twilight began to tug Sunset toward the exit. "We better get going."
"Are you sure?" Rarity asked. "Couldn't you at least stay a little longer for some tea and cookies?"
"That does sound nice," Sunset immediately answered.
"Tight schedule, Sunset," Twilight continued to wrestle Sunset toward the Carousel Boutique's exit. "Thank you for the your time, you two."
"You're welcome!" Sweetie Belle waved.
"Ta-ta!"
"Bye," Sunset gave Rarity one tiny wave with her hoof before Twilight finally dragged Sunset out with one final pull. "Whoa!"
With that, Rarity and Sweetie Belle were left alone.
"Well, she was delightful," Rarity said.
"Yeah, she seems really nice," Sweetie agreed. "I really liked her mane."
"So did I. It was quite lovely. Although," Rarity began to head for her staircase again. "Did she seem a little off to you?"
"What do you mean?"
"I'm not sure. I felt that she was a little...shaken by my presence."
"I don't know," Sweetie Belle shrugged. "Maybe she was just intimidated of meeting one of Twilight's friends."
"Hmm," Rarity thought. "Perhaps."
~Outside the Carousel Boutique~
"Well, glad that's over," Twilight let Sunset out of her grasp.
"Aw. That was my favorite visit yet," Sunset noticed Twilight's glare. "Something wrong, Twilight?" Twilight raised her eyebrow, knowing Sunset should be fully aware of the problem. "Okay, sorry! I got a little carried away there."
"Hmph!" Twilight closed her eye and began to march away.
Sunset ran up to her. "I'm sorry! It won't happen again. I'll make it up to you. I promise," Twilight kept her eyes closed. "I'll do anything. Please, Twilight?" Twilight stayed silent. "Please?" Sunset's eyes pleaded.
Twilight cracked open her eyes and stared at Sunset but didn't say anything. She just stared. Sunset was growing increasingly nervous. Just as Sunset was about to speak up again, Twilight grabbed her cheeks and planted the quickest little kiss on Sunset's nose.
"You are just the cutest little thing," Twilight began to trot away, humming happily.
Sunset could do nothing but look as Twilight skipped away. What...just happened?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"So this is where Fluttershy lives?" Sunset looked at the giant-tree-turned-cottage.
"Mm-hmm."
Sunset noticed the forest nearby. "By the Everfree Forest? Isn't that kind of dangerous?"
"Well, Fluttershy likes to care for the woodland critters, so she stays here where she can help them the most. Besides," Twilight began to trot. "We've gotten used to the Everfree Forest over time."
Sunset thought. "I guess that makes sense."
Twilight and Sunset made their way up to Fluttershy's cottage and knocked on her door. After a few moments, the door slowly creaked open, revealing only a single cyan eye.
"Hello? Oh Twilight, it's you," The door opened to reveal the rest of Fluttershy. "And you must be Sunset Shimmer. Please, come in," Sunset and Twilight entered. "I'm sorry I didn't answer the door sooner. You came earlier than I expected."
"Don't worry. It's our fault. We came early because..." Sunset took a quick glance at Twilight and re-thought her next words Choose wisely, Sunset. "Because our last visit had to be cut short."
Twilight nodded. Good save.
"I understand," Fluttershy said. "Oh, where am I manners? My name's Fluttershy. It's so nice to meet you, Sunset Shimmer."
"It's nice to meet you too, Fluttershy. Sorry we showed up sooner than you thought we would. I hope we didn't intrude on anything."
"Not at all," Fluttershy smiled. "And I don't mind. You just caught me a little unprepared is all."
"I'm sorry. Is there anything I can do to help?"
"Hmm," Fluttershy thought. "Yes, there is. Could you two follow me into the kitchen, please?"
"Of course."
Sunset and Twilight followed Fluttershy into her small kitchen. Looking inside, it was apparent that Fluttershy had been preparing some sort of meal. Her table was filled with a kettle, tea cups, a stack of plates, and a few other plates carrying sandwiches, cupcakes, and tea cakes.
Sunset internally chuckled. Why is everypony trying to feed me?
Fluttershy approached her table and began to speak. "Could you please help me carry all this out back?"
"Sure."
"I'd be happy to."
"Thank you," Fluttershy smiled. "Twilight, why don't you take kettle? Be careful though, it's hot. Thank you. And Sunset, could you carry the-" Before Fluttershy could finish her sentence, a cyan aura surrounded all of her dishes and began to levitate them all in the air. "Or you could just do that. Seems efficient."
Sunset relished the moment. Oh, it feels so good being able to do this at will again.
"Follow me, please," Fluttershy led Twilight and Sunset through her back door and into her backyard toward the Everfree Forest.
As they were treading closer to the Everfree Forest, Sunset and Twilight noticed a very peculiar scene; a bear, a bunny, a squirrel and a duck seemed to have been having a picnic just outside the forest's domain, and the ponies were heading straight for them.
"You can set everything at the center of the blanket," Fluttershy said. Sunset and Twilight did just that. As each of the animals took a plate and cup, Fluttershy began to speak to them. "Hello everypony," Fluttershy greeted the critters. "It looks like our guests have arrived a little earlier than we expected. Allow me to introduce you to Sunset Shimmer," The animals all waved to Sunset. "Sunset, my friends and I have prepared a nice little picnic just for you. We hope you like it."
Sunset observed the scenery. Huh. A picnic with Fluttershy and bunch of woodland critters. Can't say I've ever done that before. Well, unless I count having lunch with the other Fluttershy at the animal shelter that one time. Nonetheless, "I do, Fluttershy. It looks really nice. Thank you."
"Oh, you're very welcome. Please, have a seat."
Sunset and Twilight sat down between the bunny and bear. The animals were awfully kind to the two ponies; before either of them could levitate any of the dishes, the bunny and the squirrel were passing them tea cups while the duck and the bear were offering them sandwiches and cookies.
"Thank you, Mr. Bunny," Sunset grabbed a cookie.
Fluttershy suddenly looked upset. "Oh my goodness, I forgot the carrots. I'm sorry. I'll be right back," Fluttershy began to trot back to her cottage. "Oh Fluttershy, you can be so inconsiderate sometimes."
Sunset chuckled after hearing Fluttershy criticize herself. "It looks like both Fluttershy's do that," The bunny then came up to Sunset and offered her a sandwich. "Thank you again, Mr. Bunny."
"His name is Angel," Twilight said.
"Angel?"
"Mm-hmm," Twilight took a sip of tea. "Fluttershy has a lot of woodland friends, but he's Fluttershy's personal pet."
"Oh, that's right. The other Fluttershy had a pet bunny, too. I guess that explains why he's so nice."
Twilight looked suspiciously at Angel. Actually, I have no idea why he's being so kind to you. Twilight squinted her eyes at the bunny. Just what are you planning, rabbit? You better not hurt her.
"He's so cute," Sunset began to tickle Angel's stomach, causing him squirm and laugh. "Aw, you're adorable."
Twilight stared as Angel wiggled in joy under Sunset's hoof. Okay, that's pretty cute. Twilight left Sunset and Angel to their fun and looked up at the bear. "Harry, could you pass me a tea cake, please?"
"I'm back," Fluttershy returned with plate full of carrots. "Here you are, Angel. Oh, I've see you've made a new friend."
"Hehe. Looks like it," Sunset stopped tickling. "Why don't you go eat some carrots?" Angel looked a little upset. "We can play more later. I promise," Angel seem satisfied with that answer and hopped away to his meal.
"Are you enjoying yourself, Sunset?" Fluttershy asked.
"Definitely. It's been a long time since I've had a picnic in Equestria," Sunset thought. "Actually, I don't think I've ever had picnic in Equestria. Haha. This is really nice."
Fluttershy smiled. "I'm glad you like it," Sunset nodded. "So, what have you and Twilight been doing today? If um...you don't mind me asking."
"Hehe. I don't mind. Twilight's been taking me around Ponyville and introducing me to her friends."
"That's nice," Fluttershy took a sip of her tea. "But why? Don't you already know us in the other world?" Fluttershy quickly covered her mouth. "Oops. I wasn't supposed to say that."
"It's all right," Sunset chuckled. "It's true; you all act and look a lot like my friends in the other world, but you're definitely not the same as them. Trust me, I've noticed. You all have different roles, abilities, and environments here, and they've all impacted you in such ways that make you all unique," Sunset took a sip of tea. "You all may be my friends' counterparts, but you're not their clones; you're still your own pony, and I really would like to get to know each of you," Sunset's eyes seem to brighten. "And I hope that we can be friends."
Fluttershy warmly smiled. "I understand, and I would love to be your friend, as I'm sure the others would."
"Thank you, Fluttershy," Sunset softly said.
"You're very welcome. Why don't you tell me more about yourself? From what's Twilight has told me, you're a very interesting pony, and I'd really like to get to know you more."
"Sure!" Let's see, where to begin? As Sunset was thinking, Angel hopped in front of her, shyly patting his stomach. "Already?" Angel's eyes pleaded. "Hehe. Oh, all right. Fluttershy, could you wait for just a few minutes?"
"Of course."
Sunset began to tickle Angel's stomach again, making Angel squirm and laugh in ecstasy.
As Sunset played with Angel, Fluttershy and Twilight looked toward one another and gave each other an accomplished wink.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Celestia's sun favored the west as Twilight and Sunset trotted down Ponyville's market place again, heading toward their final visit. Ponyville felt strangely empty as most of its citizens were nowhere to be seen. Sunset didn't really notice, though. She had another things on her mind.
"Are you sure we should do this?" Sunset looked concerned.
"Positive."
"But she ran away earlier. Maybe she doesn't want to be my friend."
"It'll be fine," Twilight assured. "I promise. I'll be right here with you."
Sunset slowly nodded. "Okay."
Sunset and Twilight trotted through Ponyville's marketplace and approached Sugarcube Corner. Sunset felt more uneasy with every passing step. This feeling of anxiety heightened when she and Twilight finally reached the sweet shop. Here we are. With some hesitation, Sunset slowly lifted her hoof and creaked open the door. It was dark.
Sunset couldn't see anything inside. "Maybe they're closed."
"They shouldn't be. Sugarcube Corner is supposed to be open for another few hours."
"Well, it certainly doesn't look open."
"Hmm. Maybe they're back in the kitchen. Let's go see."
"Huh?" Sunset derped. "You can't be serious."
"I am."
Sunset stared at Twilight, flabbergasted. "Twilight, it's dark, quiet, and, most all, creepy in there. Those are never good signs together. I'm not going in."
"But Pinkie Pie could be back there."
Sunset gulped. "...Fine. But if I hear a chainsaw, we're leaving."
"Deal."
Sunset slowly stepped hoof into the darkness, moving one cautious step after another. "Which way is the kitchen?" Sunset whispered.
"It's around back."
"Okay," Sunset continued tiphoofing into Sugarcube Corner. As she wandered deeper inside, Sunset was getting the most dreadful feeling that they weren't alone; someone was watching them. "Twilight, this is getting really uncomfortable. It's just too dark in here. Where's the light switch?" *Flick.* "DAH!"
"SURPRIIIISE!!!"
"Huh?" Sunset Shimmer found herself surrounded by many of Ponyville's citizens. "Surprise? What's everypony doing here? What's going on?"
"It's youuurr-"
That voice. "Pinkie Pie?"
Pinkie suddenly appeared in front of Sunset. "Welcome to Ponyville party, Sunset Shimmer!"
"Welcome to Ponyville party?"
Twilight stepped forward. "That's right!"
"Twilight?" Sunset said. "You knew about this?"
"Knew about it?" Pinkie interjected. "She planned it!"
"She did?"
"Uh-huh! When Twilight found out that you were finally coming to visit her after all this time, she got all excited and happy and began to hop all around her castle saying-" Pinkie began hop around Sunset. "'Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!' But then she realized that she had to start planning out your day together and make it really fun because she wants you to stay and be her lover and-"
"Pinkie!" Twilight scolded.
"Oh. Haha. Sorry," Pinkie took her enthusiasm down a notch. "Anyway, Twilight thought it would be a good idea for you to tour Ponyville and meet her friends and then end the day with a big party with all of your new friends," Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy all appeared and stood beside Twilight and Pinkie, smiling at Sunset.
"So Sunset..." Twilight stepped closer. "What do you think?"
"I think...," A teardrop fell from Sunset's face. "It's the nicest thing anypony has ever done for me. Thank you," Sunset gave Twilight a hug.
"You're welcome," Twilight hugged back.
"But there's still one thing I want to know," Sunset let go.
"Huh? What?"
"Why did Pinkie Pie runaway from me earlier?"
"I...actually have no idea. Seriously Pinkie, what WAS that about?!"
Pinkie shrugged. "I just saw you two walking by, and when I realized that I didn't recognize Sunset, I figured that she had to be Sunset, and I should probably go get the preparations for her party ready before you stop by to visit me."
"...Makes sense," Sunset and Twilight simultaneously shrugged.
"Sorry. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings, Sunset."
"It's fine. I felt like I was coming on too strong anyway," Sunset paused and looked around. "What's everypony just staring at me for? Aren't we supposed to be having a party?!"
"Oh, I knew I'd like you!" Pinkie pulled out two party cannons. "Let's party!" Pinkie fired confetti all across the room, starting the party.
Sunset chuckled. Maybe some things are exactly alike in both worlds.
As the other ponies were beginning to dance and socialize, Sunset felt somepony tap the back of her shoulder. She turned around to see Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy standing behind her.
"Howdy there, Sunset. We hope your enjoyin' your party."
"Ha. I am," Even though it just started.
"We're sorry to bother you, Sunset," Fluttershy began. "But we were just wondering if we could all ask you something."
"Sure. What is it?"
The ponies glanced at each other and looked back at Sunset.
"Well," Rarity flipped her mane. "We hope you'll forgive us for not asking this earlier darling, but believe us, we've been wanting to ask you this all day."
Rainbow Dashed rubbed the back of her head. "The reason we haven't is because we kinda promised Twilight that we wouldn't ask until the party."
Fluttershy hid behind her mane. "Because she was afraid you'd be uncomfortable with us asking when just met."
Pinkie hopped in from out of nowhere. "But now we're friends, and the party is here," Confetti exploded behind Pinkie. "So now we're allowed to ask."
Applejack took off her hat. "And we really hope our question doesn't bother you, Sunset. We really do see you as our friend, and we hope you don't mind us askin'."
"I'm sure I won't," Sunset looked at her friends. "What is it?"
The ponies glanced at each other, looked back at Sunset, and simultaneously asked "Can you tell us about the other us, please?"
Sunset humorously rolled her eyes. Of course. "Who wants to know first?"
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sunset levitated a cup of punch from the food table and trotted over to Twilight.
"Why the long face, Twilight? Aren't you having fun?"
"Huh?" Twilight was brought back to reality. "Oh, sorry Sunset. I've just been thinking."
"About?"
"Well, I don't know why, but I have the strangest feeling that maybe, just maybe, something is missing."
"That's weird," Sunset took a sip. "Any ideas?" Sunset suddenly felt a burning sensation in her mouth. "Whoa!" Sunset coughed. "That's hot!Ow, that's really hot! What's in this punch?! My mouth is on fire! Sorry Twilight, but I've got to find some water!" Sunset ran off.
Not again. Twilight shook her head. Seriously, who keeps spiking the punch bowl with hot sauce?......Spiked. Twilight repeated. "Spike!" Twilight jumped up. "Has anypony seen Spike or Starlight?"
Everypony looked at each other unsurely and made apologetic gestures to Twilight.
"That's strange," Twilight looked worried. "They're supposed to be here. Where are they?"
"Twiliihiihiight! A voice cried from the outside.
That voice. "Spike?!" Twilight ran out the doors and frantically searched for her assistant. "Spike, where are you?!"
"Twilight!" Spike ran toward Sugarcube Corner. "Twilight, it's back!"
"What's wrong, Spike?! What's back?"
"The bugbear, Twilight! The bugbear!"
"What?!"
Twilight looked toward the direction Spike came from and soon enough, the bugbear made its horrific return to Ponyville, growling, ready to restart its cruel reign of terror. It didn't come alone, though: Starlight was levitating around its head, blasting the bugbear with a magic beam attack and just narrowly avoiding its deadly claws.
"Get back, you beast!" Starlight blasted it again. The bugbear countered with another claw swipe. Starlight easily dodged but was unprepared for its second claw swipe attack from its second left arm. "Whoa!" Starlight quickly cast a shield spell to protect herself from the second attack. Starlight wasn't harmed, but the force of the attack pushed her down to the ground in front of Twilight. "That thing is tougher than it looks."
"Yes, the bugbear is a very formidable opponent," Twilight turned her head back toward the inside of Sugarcube Corner. "Everyone! The bugbear has returned!" Everypony inside gasped. "My friends and I are going to stop it, but until then, everypony else has to stay inside. The bugbear is much too dangerous," The party-goers all took cover. "Come on girls!" Twilight led her friends out the of party and into battle.
Applejack charged in first. She pulled out her rope and attempted to lasso the bugbear. "Didn't you learn your lesson the last time out?" Applejack threw her rope and successfully lassoed the bugbear's top left arm. "Yee-haw!" Applejack pulled the rope and made the bugbear struggle to stay up. "You're up, Rainbow!"
"I'm on it!" Rainbow Dash flanked the bugbear from its right side with a powerful hind-leg kick. "That's for that cheap bite you pulled on me last time!"
"May I be of assistance?" Rarity attacked the bugbear with her stunning blue magic blasts and followed up with a double hind leg buck to the its stomach. "Take that you ruffian!" The bugbear countered by grabbing Rarity and holding her tightly on his side. "Put me down!" She struggled. "I refuse to be your hostage again!"
The bugbear felt a gentle tap on its shoulder. "Um, excuse me Mr. Bugbear," The bugbear turned its head to see a trembling Fluttershy. "I'm sorry to bother you Mr. Bugbear, but today is really not a good time. You see, we have a visitor from out of town today, and she'd be very disappointed if your rampage ruined the special welcoming party we threw her. Besides, you were defeated last time, and I really don't want my friends and I have to hurt you again. Do you understand, Mr. Bugbear? Now, if you could just let Rarity go-" The bugbear roared and prepared to strike Fluttershy with its claws. "Eeep!"
"Hey, you leave her alone, bugbear!" Pinkie Pie growled. "Check this out!" Pinkie began to balance two spinning plates on sticks in each hoof while riding a unicycle. The bugbear actually seemed a little entranced by Pinkie's actions as stopped itself from attacking Fluttershy and began to just hover over the ground.
Seeing her opportunity, Fluttershy grabbed Rarity and swiftly flew away.
Pinkie Pie smirked. "Now, girls!"
Twilight and Starlight jumped out and unleashed two powerful magic beam blasts on the bugbear that sent it soaring over Ponyville.
"Whew!" Twilight wiped some sweat off her forehead. "Glad that's over," Twilight turned around to congratulate her friends. "Good job everypony. That should take care of him. Now we can go back and-"
"Look out!" Starlight shouted as she tackled Twilight onto the ground.
The bugbear had skydived back into Ponyville, sting first. Its sky attack pierced the ground and left it in shambles. Had it not been for Starlight, the bugbear would have surely stung Twilight.
"How?" Twilight shockingly breathed out. "The combined power of mine and Starlight's magic should've stopped it," Twilight picked herself up. "Be wary, girls. The bugbear is much stronger now than it was last time."
The bugbear began to hover again, glaring at the ponies like a hunter stalking its prey.
"Well, that didn't work. Any other ideas, Twilight?" Starlight asked.
"I'm thinking," Thoughts were racing through Twilight's mind. Okay, so it's powered up to the point of being able to resist both mine and Starlight's magic. Together. Unreal. Twilight shook her head. But that blast still sent it into the sky. It still felt the blast. We might still be able to fend it off again, but we're going to need more power. Where can we-
"Hey! You! Over here!" A voice shouted. The ponies and bugbear turned their attention toward the source of the sound to see a glaring Sunset standing on top of one of Ponyville's houses, staring down the bugbear. "Yeah, I'm talking to you, buggy! I was enjoying my first day in Equestria in moons until some half-insect, half-mammal monster started attacking my friends!" The bugbear roared. "Oh, so that's how you want it, huh? Bring it on, buggy!"
"Sunset!" Twilight yelled.
"I got this!" Sunset hastily replied.
Sunset vanished in a flash of cyan light and reappeared in front of the bugbear. As soon she appeared, Sunset wasted no time unleashing her own magical beam on the bugbear. The bugbear was pushed back, but it quickly recovered and charged forward toward Sunset. It moved in for a claw swipe, but Sunset easily evaded by teleportating again to the other side of the bugbear. "Missed me!"
The bugbear swiped again, and Sunset teleported again, only this time she was greeted by a swipe from one of the bugbear's extra arms. "Uh-oh!" Sunset cast a shield spell and got herself out of harm's way. However, the attack did manage to send Sunset to the ground. "That all you got?" Sunset's insults quickly faded as she looked up and saw the bugbear diving right at her, sting first. Sunset jumped to the side and dodged the attack. After evading, Sunset saw that the bugbear was still recovering its balance and blasted it again.
As she was blasting the bugbear, a strange feeling began to overtake Sunset. Everything around Sunset seemed to have slowed down. What...What is this sensation I'm feeling? It feels so...so familiar. The bugbear swiped again only to hit air as Sunset evaded with another teleportation spell. It's like my heart is being filled with some sort of rush of wild ecstasy. It's beating like crazy. Sunset evaded another one of the bugbear's attacks and blasted it again. I'm facing a monster, and I'm...I'm teleporting at will. I can cast spells as I please. I...I know what this feeling is. Sunset began to smirk as she continued fighting. I've only felt it in small increments in the other world, but right here, right now, as I face this beast...I'm feeling the entire sensation with no bars held! The bugbear charged again with its stinger, but Sunset seemed to have had no intention to move. Yes! Face me! Fill my heart with this sensation! For it's been far too long since I've felt the exhilaration...OF A REAL MAGICAL FIGHT!!!
Sunset shielded herself from the bugbear's sting attack and found herself being thrown back a mild distance into Ponyville's marketplace. As she was shaking off some the attack's rush, Sunset felt a hoof touch her shoulder.
"Are you okay, Sunset?" Twilight looked worried.
"Okay?! It's the best I've felt in moons!"
"Huh?"
"Hey Twilight," Sunset turned her head to the princess, grinning. "I don't think I can beat this thing."
"Don't worry, Sunset. I'm thinking of a way-"
"I already thought of a way," Sunset confidently said.
"A everything is going to be all ri-what?"
The bugbear charged in again. As the ponies rushed in to face their foe, Sunset held back Twilight and Starlight. "I think a little teamwork between the three of us will do just the trick! The combined magic of an alicorn and two talented unicorns should be more than enough send this bugbear back to hive-cave it came from!"
"That..." Starlight beamed. "That actually might work!"
"Yes, it will!" Twilight nodded. "If we can fly close enough to the bugbear and combine our power, we should be able to get rid of it!" Twilight looked over to Sunset. "Do you want us to carry you, Sunset?"
"Ha! Please," Sunset's horn lit up and she suddenly had a pair of phoenix-like wings. "I can fly."
Twilight's and Starlight's eyes were shining almost as much as Sunset's flaming wings. "Okay, enough gawking. Let's do this!"
Twilight and Starlight shook off their shock. "Right!"
Twilight, Sunset, and Starlight flew into the sky to confront the bugbear. It was busy ignoring Fluttershy's suggestions and dodging Rainbow Dash's attacks.
"Hey, buggy!" The bugbear turned its attention away from Rainbow Dash. "You're not rid of me just yet!" The bugbear growled.
"Rainbow!" Twilight yelled.
"Gotcha!" Rainbow Dash kicked the distracted bugbear. "Rarity! Applejack!"
"We're on it!" Applejack lassoed the bugbears right arms while Rarity magically tied up its left ones.
The bugbear struggled, but it could not break free. Things went from bad to worse for the bugbear when it noticed three ponies levitating in front of it.
"All right, buggy, here it comes! One magical trinity blast just for you!"
Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer, and Starlight Glimmer closed their eyes. Their horns glowed as they began to gather their magic energy. They opened their pure-white eyes and combined their magic to unleash to release a single, radiant beam that sent the bugbear flying over the horizon.
Pinkie Pie pointed at the soaring bugbear. "Looks like the bugbear is blasting off again!" *Twinkle.*
With that, Twilight, Sunset, and Starlight descended to the ground and gather with their friends.
"Whew," Starlight breathed out. "That was some rush. I don't think I've ever felt that much power before."
"Ha. It's quiet exhilarating, isn't it?" Twilight added.
Fluttershy came forward. "I hope it's okay."
"Don't worry, Fluttershy," Twilight comforted. "All we did was send it away. The bugbear will be fine."
Rainbow Dash scoffed. "Well, I hope it stays away this time. It tried to bite me again."
"Haha," Twilight shook her head. "Good job everypony, especially to you, Sunset. Your idea worked like a charm," Twilight's smile weakened a bit. "I hope you're not too upset about the bugbear ruining your party."
"Oh, not at all," Sunset commented. "In fact, do you or Starlight want have a magic duel?"
~End Chapter~