This story is a sequel to Time Goes On
After reuniting with her best friend, Sunset Shimmer has decided to do the one thing that will ensure Twilight will never forget her again: move in with her.
Now it's a simple matter of reconnecting with the mare who stole her heart, learning the ropes of her new home, and continuing her study of magical artifacts... And, perhaps, making new friends as well. All while dealing with all the surprising perils that seem endemic to Ponyville. But none of that could possibly be a problem for a pony as great as Sunset Shimmer, right?
It's going to be a long year.
Cover art by ShutterflyEQD
Featured on May 3, 2018!
Chapters (12)
Yes. Finally, a Sequel!!!
Good to see this up and it was great to read. From Sunset's initial meeting of Twilight's friends to her diary entries reflecting on it, we delved in deeply into her mindset. It'll be fascinating to see where she goes once the story catches up with the present.
I kind of feel bad for Sunset. Thanks to Twilight's actions and Celestia's neglect, for the rest of her life she's going to be known as 'Celestia's other student' or 'Twilight's girlfriend.' Nothing else matters.
Will Celestia be addressed on how she hurt Sunset, because it's how she treated Luna all over again!
I really want to see Sunset exlode on Celestia on how she hurt her and destroyed a part fo her so easily, Celestia be weeping in private for NOT LEARNING HER LESSON!
8627110
Ditto
8626571
I know! It's so exciting!
8626800
Ah. Well, you know now at least.
8626892
Glad to hear it! Honestly, working out Sunset's mindset - both the 'present' as well as 'future' versions - has been one of the most enjoyable aspects of writing this series for me. I'm happy you're fascinated by it.
8627110 and 8630366
Ah... Well... 'The rest of her life' seems like a long time, y'know? She's still pretty young. Though, yes, she certainly does feel like that as she's writing the diary.
8627576
...yeah, I still think you're kinda blowing things was outta proportion and expecting a bigger reaction from Sunset than what seems reasonable to me. Anyway, any 'confrontation' of that kind has already come and gone by the time this story takes place. I do plan to eventually show it, it'll just be as another addendum to Time Goes On.
8630479
And i think you not seeing the whole picture.
Sunset was chosen to be Celestia specail student and yet in the end everything she hoped and belived was false.
She wasn;t meant to save Luna, she wasn't meant to become a Princess, what was she, a back up plan never to really be used?
Celestia treating Sunset like she treated Luna before, never taking time to pay attention to her student and damaging her confindence, it reads like she given up on celestia and ever gaining her approval.
all she has left is Twilight, and she terrfied she be forgotten still, as she resents the mane five for seemly taking her away.
Who do we have to thank for that fear being placed in....Celestia.
8630500
Uhh, seeing how you're not the one writing the story (which has only barely begun, I remind you), I'm gonna have to say that you're the one who isn't seeing the entire picture. Especially since you haven't actually seen the part you're up in arms about, not directly.
Celestia to blame for Sunset's fear of being forgotten? When Twilight was the one who literally forgot her? Yeah, no. Not even close.
Like, I'll admit that maybe I should have made Sunset's relationship with Celestia at this point in the timeline clearer, but I still feel like you're jumping to conclusions right now.
8630479
I know, though it's hard not to "live in the moment" as you are reading said moment.
That said and sad feels aside, I do look forward to more of this!
8630587
Haha, fair enough. I hope you enjoy what's to come.
Yay, a sequel. I really didn't have to wait for this though, as I just got to reading Time Goes On, having actually found it thanks to this. That was a great story, and this is looking even better. However, I do agree with @Diablo4000 that there should be a confrontation between Sunset and Celestia, just nothing so over dramatic as he wants. I think the Canterlot Wedding is fertile grounds for it, so let's run through what changes and how it works...
Twi knows about Cadance in this universe, so aside from being peeved about not being told about the upcoming wedding sooner (stealing an idea from another author, this could have been an abrupt last minute idea by Celestia to make ponies happy since they would of course enjoy a royal wedding), she wouldn't be as worked up
While Twi is greeting Cadance only to be rebuffed, Sunset chats with Shining, giving 'Cadance' ammunition to drive a wedge between her and Twi, and keep her from helping Shining with the shield, by accusing her of trying to steal her husband on the day of her wedding
After everything, the girls admit to what they did wrong just like the show in front of Celestia and Luna. This is the point where Sunset confronts Celestia, pointing there are some ponies who could use to learn this lesson. Before Celestia can answer, Luna steps forward, "I believe I should begin making trips to Ponyville, it would be good to get to know your students dear sister. This one in particular," pointing a wing at Sunset, "seems rather wise for her age," turning to give her sister a look, challening her to say something.
A little confrontation over the issue, one that shows how Sunset has changed. The old Sunset would likely have blown up on Celestia, this one however is much calmer, but not afraid to be blunt, even when addressing a princess.
Still, no matter where you go with this, I'm sure it'll be a great story. I would of course love it if Sunset gets an Element of Harmony (AllyKitty's Element of Empathy is a great idea I think) and/or ascends (plenty of opportunities, and I think she deserves it), but some how I think I'll enjoy this story even if neither of those happen.
Lots of potential with this, but I'm really looking forward to Sunset getting to know the other pony's of Ponyville and having to deal with the fact a library in a tree is a lot smaller than a castle in a city.
8638705
I'm glad you liked it! Although, like I've been trying to tell people, the 'confrontation' between Sunset and Celestia would have already occurred in-universe by the time Sunset in Ponyville starts. I just haven't gotten around to writing it yet.
Incidentally, I do already have a good idea how I'm gonna handle the wedding. It's just not gonna happen for awhile, as I've got it planned as a Spring event and we're still in the middle of Summer.
8638855
I'm glad you're looking forward to it! I hope it lives up to your expectations.
Can't wait for the romance to unfold
Very excellent progression for Sunset, showing her feelings on Ponyville and the Mane 6 are still set in her first judgments, but showing that she is easing into her new experiences. It's definitely intriguing to see where things such as the antique store and the furnace will lead in the future. And seeing how Sunset relates to Twilight in being the one mortal pony she can relate to, it'll be something to see how her feelings go with Twilight's ascension. So much setup for great fun to come. Looking forward to it all.
8638968
Heh, I had forgotten that you'd said that, my bad. That said, even when something is settled, sometimes it's not, you know? The wedding is just such a perfect setting for bringing the issue to the forefront, since it fits the message so well. That and it gives Luna the opportunity to be snarky, and I love when Luna like that.
What an excellent way to start the new year. 10/10 will recommend.
8639105
And I can't wait to do the unfolding!
8639533
Oh yes, so much delicious setup, especially regarding Sunset's feelings about various things! So much I'm looking forward to writing and showing off, even if it's still a bit far in the future right now. I'm also glad you're interested in the antique store and the furnace! They're both (basically) canon things, and they just fit so well into this story I couldn't resist including them.
8639707
No problem! And yeah, I'll admit that not everything is set in stone right now. And I'll keep your thoughts about Luna in mind.
8642514
Haha. Well, I know I'm a couple days late, but Happy New Year!
Very detailed chapter, but given Sunset's musings on how any small detail could be important, makes it seem like there's a lot of what's coming set up here. She's making slow, but steady progress and the continuity nods are appreciated. Looking forward to the next chapter. ^_^
Well, since i've read these chapters here I guess I'll go back and read the story that comes before this. Hmm, a bit out of order, but hey, whatever. Good stuff so far.
Totally loving this and eager for more!
I like it, though I will say the opening kinda makes Sunset sound like her sense of self worth got taken out back and shot.
I look forward to seeing Pinkie interact with the wards.
If this is anything like the prequel—and thus far, it looks to be—it's going to be a very fun journey. Looking forward to more. And I hope Sunset does earn those wings.
L-space! Yay!
Ahh, I really need to be better with answering reviews closer to when they're posted...
Oh well, better late then never I suppose.
8717782
Haha, yeah. Nods to what may come in the future, and also probably things I will forget about. Such is life.
8717953
Glad you liked it! Though I do hope you did go back and read the original story...
8741126
Always great to hear!
8747324
8747352
Hoo boy, what Sunset's gonna go through over the course of a year... And Pinkie with the wards, eh? I wonder what could happen...
8750263
As for Sunset getting wings... even I don't know what'll happen that far ahead yet. At the very least she doesn't have them as she's writing her journal entries.
Oh, yes, there will be fun! And also other things.
8784137
Haha, well, being such a fan of the Discworld series I couldn't help myself... Words have power, even - or perhaps especially - in Equestria.
Good development for Sunset going along, setting the stage for her starting to warm up to other ponies, even if their interests are different than her own. And I'm sure she's definitely going to be having a serious, emotional talk with Twilight once she blurts out about how she still resents being forgotten about for a month. Very good stuff and I can't wait for the next chapter!
Good chapter, and ya, I read the first one, but I kind of jumped right into this after finishing it and didn't think to review. I'm an eager reader. When the last Harry Potter book came out, I read the entire thing in less than 12 hours in a straight run save for eating and bathroom.
Hmm. Intriguing mention of Discord. Especially the implication that whatever happened might happen again.
Ah yes. When arcane researchers can use telekinesis at will, they aren't going to give much thought to the ergonomics of their equipment.
Nice work with Time Turner. A few pleasantly Whovian nods without being obnoxious about it. And then there's Sunset's abandonment issues peeking out from the cracks in her mask. Good to know she'll soften up in time.
8870824
Ohh, yes, talks will be had in due time.
8870866
Ahh, good to know! Though I think you may have misinterpreted a previous comment that wasn't meant to directed at you.
8875070
Fleshing out some magical theory and consequences and such has been fun too.
Ahh, the seeds of the future...
As for Time Turner, believe it or not I have seen maybe two episodes of Doctor Who. My characterization of him is based pretty much entirely off his appearance in Slice of Life.
Very good chapter getting in some good back and forth between Sunset and the Mane 6. The chats were very appropriate and shows how they continue to affect and develop her, even if some moments make Sunset feel more negative at first. The Truth or Dunk game was thought and those questions certainly were interesting and required a lot of thought.
It's also good to see Sunset's friendship with Twilight does matter in terms of how it affects the chain of events. Finding out how Twilight stood up to Trixie the first time because Sunset boosted her confidence over the years was nice and also good to see we know why Twilight suddenly remembered Sunset. Only a matter of time before the two have to have that talk with how much emotions are being bottled up as pressure continues to be applied.
I also look forward to seeing where things develop from here, such as with them getting ready to meet Trixie, but also the subtle things, like how Fluttershy kept stealing glances at Sunset. Could it be related to how Fluttershy kept trying to speak up about how Monday may not be the best time to visit her cottage, or is she really taking an interest in Sunset but due to her shyness unable to really get it out?
Very excellent chapter and shows all the hard work paid off. Can't wait for the next one!
Very intriguing ripples with Trixie. I love seeing the lasting effects Twilight and Sunset have had on each other. Also nice to see the awkward interactions between Sunset and the rest of the Mane Six. Looking forward to seeing how she connects to them without Twilight as an intermediary, and what she might contribute to the nascent field of Pinkieology. And the attempted Trixie reconciliation should be quite the sight. Deviations there have very long-reaching effects.
Wow, interesting ripples for sure. Love the effects and I'm eager to see how this meeting goes.
8903398
Particularly Truth or Dunk, I wasn't sure how well that whole scene and game was put together.
I'm glad you liked it!
And honestly, actually making sure Twilight isn't just her canon self and has actually taken different actions and made different choices has been surprisingly tough. With the setting being what it is, it's all to easy to slip into Twilight just being Twilight. Which is fine some of the times, but it's hardly a good AU if I don't actually show how Sunset being around has changed things.
8904537
Writing Sunset just not getting along with the Mane Six has been, surprisingly enough, a treat. And while I admit that I haven't planned as much out as I'd like, what I do have for the future is... Well, you'll see.
8907589
Well, I'm glad you like it so far!
This is award with Twilight having her 1 true love Starlight living in the castle also.
....IS THAT JACK MOTHERFUCKIN SPARROW'S COMPASS I SEE WHICH POINTS TOWARDS WHAT IT'S HOLDER DESIRES?!?!
8929850
Starlight is not in this fic, at least not currently (I will not say whether or not she will show up eventually). The castle doesn't exist yet. Twilight isn't even a Princess! At least, not in the story's 'present'. But you would know that if you'd actually read the fic...
8930084
Hate to burst your bubble, but it isn't. I have never watched a single Pirates movie in its entirety, nor do I have any desire to do so. Sometimes a magical compass is its own thing, and not a reference to something else.
Plus, if it really were pointing to what Sunset desired the most, I assure you that Sunset would have figured that out by now.
Nice to see Sunset bonding, however grudgingly, with Twilight's other friends. Applejack might not have the book smarts of the two unicorns, but she had more common sense than both put together. The artifacts Sunset has in her possession are also quite interesting. Well done.
Just finished reading the first story. Really loved it. I am excited to get into this one now.
Very nice development happening with Sunset, from her irritation of having her time with Twilight taken up to having her come to appreciate having Applejack around. The process was gradual throughout the day, making it realistic rather than some sudden heel turn. Nice to see how Sunset's personality still persists even with her coming to appreciate the Mane 6, still thinking things like Applejack being smarter in "some ways." Small touches go a long way without needing to say it.
And the artifacts truly seem fascinating, the mirror being one we're all familiar with. Some of them like the crystal ball and the compass make me wonder what secrets they hide. After all, just because something seems useless now doesn't mean it always was/will be. Maybe it takes multiple magical objects or special times to make them work properly.
Very nice here, wonder how the Trixie fallout will play
Sunset has yet to learn to share. Friendship isn't conserved. Twilight bonding with others won't weaken her bond with Sunset. Baconhorse will come to understand that in time. For now, she'll seethe in progressively lessening antisocial jealousy.
The artifacts are certainly interesting. The Thallid Thrasher must be incredibly effective if there's not even a saproling left anywhere in the world. (I suppose Thelon was a deer in this world.) The Luddite's Stone is peculiarly named; I suppose it's meant to be the counterpart of a natural philosopher, but that name still has me expecting it to turn iron to rust. And going by the New Moon Gate, you're treating "moon" as night, which has some curious implications for both the Mirror and Apple family reunions.
And, of course, there's the Mirror itself. Definitely looking forward to seeing ponies explore the other universe, and what becomes of it without modern Equestrian interference.
In all, a lot of potential story hooks amid Sunset's character development. Looking forward to more.
8930096
It's not just cause it's a magical compass that it sounds like a hearts desire compass. What you want isn't constant, a man dying of dehydration in the desert could pick it up and have it point him to water but if he sees a mirage in the distance it could just as easily point him to the mirage cause he no longer wants water, he wants the mirage he sees. So when Sunset is trying to figure out the compass it would likely spin trying to point to itself. Also you had Sunset say at some point that even if something told her she loved Twilight she'd likely not have been willing to believe it.
Seeing as you say it's not that though, then my guesses would be either it points to magical artifacts and behaves erratically cause it's so close to them or it points to Discord's realm which constantly moves or something. Or it's not important, but it really reads like it's going to be more important later on with how you wrote it last, made it the only one Sunset found, etc.
Dang, that's a creepy one
Thallids haha, mtg mushroom people.
Though, if you wanna know, in the mtg multiverse thallids are from dominaria, and they were created as a slave race to a dying people.
That whent as wel as you might imagin. Their creators went extinct after the thallid rebelled ontop of them already dying.
I think it went something along those lines.
Really good thing Sunset is playing nice(r) these days. She could accomplish quite a bit of adamge with some of that gear.
8930110
Thanks! Honestly writing these early interactions between Twilight's friends and a Sunset who really doesn't care much about them has been surprisingly great. They're growing on her, even if she doesn't recognize that fact. I'm glad you liked the artifacts as well.
8930738
Awesome! Always great to hear from new readers
8931253
Glad to hear I'm pulling off Sunset's gradual development well! Sometimes having her do a heel-face turn quickly works, like in canon, but I wanted to explore her turning around more slowly and I've enjoyed doing it so far. As for the artifacts... I expect that even I will be surprised with the truth behind some of them.
8931291
Yes, how indeed... Well, I say that, but it's not likely going to come up very soon as I still have other things to focus on in the story.
8932802
You've hit the nail on the head. Sunset still has a lot to learn about friendship, but luckily she's in pretty good hooves (even if they aren't formal teachers yet).
As for the artifacts... well, the world is wide, so there may very well be Saprolings squirming around somewhere. As for the Thallids, I'm thinking less Thelon's creations and more the natural ones occurring on Jund. Or something in that vein anyway, haven't thought it through fully. The Luddite's Stone is just what my mind drifted to as a name for the opposite of a Philosopher's Stone. And as for the New Moon Gate... well, in all my works I treat 'moon' as being roughly half a week. A bit of an oddball unit of measurement, sure, but I think it works. It means the Mirror opens up every 15 weeks (and for a single moon at that!), so a little under 4 months. Plenty of time to panic at the prospect of being trapped somewhere for.
And, incidentally, the Apple Family Reunion is held roughly once a year, sometimes twice at the very start and very end. I also like how this worked out for some things.
8933547
Ah, fair enough fair enough. Though I do think Sunset would eventually figure out that every time she tries to figure out what the compass is pointing to the needle goes haywire but otherwise its stable.
And... it is definitely going to be important at some point in some way. I just... haven't figured out the entirety of the how or when. Sometimes its fun to leave mysteries for my future self to puzzle out!
8939416
Yup! Very simplistic on the surface, but the potential is pretty terrifying. It's earned its Class A ranking.
8941403
Yes, I am familiar with the lore of Fallen Empires. Though in this particular case I was imagining more like the thallids from Jund, perhaps. At least in the sense that they're natural rather than an elf-created slave race.
8954097
Some of it, yes. The Class A artifacts anyway. Thankfully, as you said, she's being more Responsible these days.
I think we all know what type of pet Sunset is going to get when the time is right...
Good bit of background for the interaction between Bacon Horse and Yellowquiet. And Sunset definitely doesn't seem ready for a pet quite yet. Though I do look forward to her further interactions with the Crusaders. No way that will end well...
Very nice start to a one on one interaction between Sunset and Fluttershy. It makes sense some of the Mane 6 would take longer for Sunset to get better acquainted with, even though these early interactions are starting to affect how she views them. It'll be intriguing to see Sunset's reaction once she sees what Fluttershy is truly capable of. Still, nice to know she has tried to help Fluttershy with her confidence.