Chapter 9
The following week, the big day finally came. Inside the school’s large gymnasium, sitting in 30 rows of 15, was Canterlot High’s graduating class of the year, all wearing navy blue caps and gowns with golden Wondercolt emblems on the backs.
Everyone was seated in alphabetical order, so the seven heroes were all very separate from one another. Rarity and Rainbow Dash were within easy eyeshot of each other, but it was a considerably longer distance between all the others. Despite this, they knew exactly how proud they all felt for one another, and how this is one of the biggest stepping stones of their life.
And in the rather uncomfortable yet spacious bleachers were, of course, parents and family members of each graduate, and six of our seven were no exception. They all set near one another, constantly complimenting their daughter’s achievements. Windy Whistles and Bow Hothoof were obviously the most enthusiastic, always taking every moment they can to express pride for their little Rainbow. However, elsewhere in the crowd were Princess Twilight Sparkle and Starlight Glimmer, both of which stood out by wearing their normal portal-given clothes, there to cheer their inter-dimensional friend, Sunset Shimmer.
Principal Celestia, as well as a few other faculty members, spoke long, admittedly drawn-out lectures congratulating their students of all they’ve done for the school. A few choice students and alumni even gave their own speeches, describing what their life at CHS meant for them and how they intend to use what they’ve learned for their future. The first couple stories were already surprisingly engaging for what they were, if a little generic. They were essentially underdog stories, where they were initially unsure of what to do with their life, and even suffered in grades at first, only for their lives to transform after realizing what they were talented in.
Sunset Shimmer mused at the thought. Just like cutie marks in Equestria, she thought. Even to this day, she was surprised at how similar high school life paralleled Equestrian fillyhood.
The next speaker, however, caught her by surprise as she walked onto the stage. It was a green, long-haired girl with simple sneakers, a brown-striped sweater, and long, slim jeans.
“And now,” Princess Celestia announced, “I will turn the stage to Wallflower Blush.”
She is really doing this, Sunset thought to herself. All she had seen of her past the memory stone incident were a few chances, conversation-less encounters at the Starswirl Festival. She had no idea what could have even brought someone like her to do this. She listened intently.
“Good-good morning, fellow Wondercolts,” said Wallflower nervously. “As the founder of the CHS Garden Club, I am proud to know I have made a difference in others’ lives. When I first came to this school, I was… well…” Her cheeks stayed true to her name. “…A shut-in. Nobody joined in my club, to the point where I’ve… done some actions I regret. I tore an amazing girl away from her friends just to prove a misguided point. But they found it in their hearts to forgive me, because they knew how important friendship was. Without it, my club would have never grown, I wouldn’t have met Fluttershy, and most of all, I would have never found the confidence to speak to you today.”
A light applause followed, which Wallflower only reacted to with a light smile before she continued explaining what has happened to her over her time at CHS, and how she gained her friendship with Fluttershy that even Sunset somehow never knew about. In hindsight, she should’ve seen it coming because of how much the two had in common, at least at first. To think, she thought, it was her own bond with Fluttershy and the others that made that friendship responsible to begin with…
“…And so, as I eagerly move on to Breezie U,” Wallflower continued, speaking in the most confident voice she could muster, “I will always fondly remember all I’ve accomplished at Canterlot High, and I wish to make as many friends as I have here. I am happy to say I am no longer a wallflower, and I wish equally as good fortune to you.”
Everyone applauded. Wallflower quickly turned away, trying (and failing) to hide her embarrassment. Clearly some things still hadn’t changed with her, Sunset thought.
Some minutes later, came the moment everyone was waiting for: the diploma handouts, where every seated student was called one by one. However, it took until the Cs for Sunset Shimmer to realize, they had passed through Applejack! She couldn’t see the girl, but she glanced at the farm family in the bleachers and she could tell they were similarly puzzled.
She made sure to pay attention through the mid-Fs, and sure enough, Fluttershy was skipped too! And as the letters went by, everyone – including herself – were all mysteriously excluded, despite knowing she in particular was at the top of her class! What was going on here? She would’ve spoken up, but she chose not to for integrity’s sake. But she knew she was going to bring it up to Principal Celestia-
“And now, for a special commemoration, we invite up to the stage: Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Twilight Sparkle, and Sunset Shimmer,” The woman finally announced, after every other student had received their diplomas.
A huge standing ovation erupted as the seven heroes all individually rode up to the front, all of which - even Fluttershy - were incredibly excited of what was to come.
“I just wanted to heavily celebrate them not just for their outstanding academic achievements and for being a true testament to the magic of friendship, but for saving our city from the magical dangers that have threatened this school. We have them to thank for saving our lives, and as such I am going to read a special letter from the nation’s capital.”
Principal Celestia took a folded piece of paper out of her pocket, placed it onto the podium, and cleared her throat. And as she read out loud, the girls looked between each other with varying looks ranging from worry to cautious excitement.
“’We at our nation’s capital have been following this magical phenomena happening for the past couple years in Canterlot City. Ever since the statue on the front lawn of your facility has started leaking wisps, we’ve quietly observed them infect objects such as cellular phones and mirrors. We’ve been keeping this information on the down-low, for the purpose of secrecy and for not instilling fear in the public until more information is known.
“However, we are writing you today in notice that the most recent events surrounding this phenomenon have raised public awareness of the existence of magic and this alternate dimension that has been called ‘Equestria’. For selflessly defending against all of these foreign dangers, and for saving our planet from a particularly large sea of chaos, we would like to bestow these seven teenage heroes and graduates our biggest honor:’”
Some of the friends gasped in fascination, as they were wondering what kind of reward could possibly be awaiting them. Their answer came in the form of Vice Principal Luna, stepping onto the stage carrying a fancy black case, stopping between her sister and the girls.
“’We would like to declare these seven our world’s official ambassadors to Equestria, with their jobs being to help maintain this newfound connection in a harmonious manner.’”
As Principal Celestia was finishing this statement, Vice-Principal Luna opened the case, showing seven special pins. They were in a shield shape, made of real silver, with the words ‘Equestrian Ambassador’ engraved on the top and each girls’ name on the bottom, with a horse resembling the CHS mascot in the middle.
When each girl had their new badge pinned to their graduation gown, they could not believe in the slightest what was happening. The audience was loudly applauding, from the chairs and bleachers alike, with the family members being especially noisy with their pride.
Pinkie Pie simply looked at the badge, enamored by its shiny look. Applejack gave a more modest grin, approving of the appreciation. Rarity made sure to place it in the most perfect spot in her gown, and gave an especially confident and prideful look. Rainbow accidentally had it more slanted, but she didn’t care. She impulsively pumped her fists up into the air, and her parents and Scootaloo followed. Fluttershy just nodded and smiled.
Finally, Principal Celestia made her final notes to the students. “And so, I officially declare you all, my faithful students, official graduates of Canterlot High!”
And, per tradition, music blared, cheers roared, and a few hundred caps were tossed into the air.
A few minutes later, the new graduates – still wearing their gowns, and now with their cap tassels flipped to their left, gathered just outside the school, with their families and loved ones hugging and sharing sentiments of pride.
Sunset Shimmer’s pride parade was more unusual than the others, however. There were no parents or family members, but instead two girls that seemed roughly the same age as her.
“Sunset Shimmer, I know I say I’m proud of you a lot,” said Princess Twilight with tears in her eyes, “but… I... I don't think I've ever been happier for anyone in my life.”
Sunset, trying hard to fight back her own sobs, embraced the princess, who cried in Sunset’s chest. Starlight just patted both their shoulders, one at a time, giving a smaller but undoubtedly genuine smile.
This went on for a few additional moments before the purple pony-turned-human was finally able to step back.
“Best, graduation, EVER!” said Pinkie Pie loudly, making sure her voice was heard amongst all the chatter and noise.
She and the rest of Sunset’s best friends, who joined the native Equestrians, were grouped close together and were wearing some of the biggest beams they’ve ever had. Even often-subtle Fluttershy’s look rivaled that from when she received the Breezie U letter.
“Princess Twilight!” Rarity exclaimed.
“Starlight Glimmer!” Rainbow Dash added on.
“Hi, girls,” said Starlight with a nervous shake of her hand. “Uh, how’s Juniper Montage doing?”
“Last I checked, she’s doing pretty well,” Sunset answered, not wanting to admit they haven’t been in the closest contact. But she did know the aspiring movie star has gotten better.
“So, Sunset Shimmer,” said Sci-Twi, “With the portal being neutralized and kept open, I guess that means you don’t really have to worry so much about picking a world?”
“Actually, Twilight,” said Sunset happily, “I think I’ve finally figured it out.”
Everyone listened with intent.
“Throughout this whole adventure, I’ve discovered so much about myself. What it means to make up for your mistakes, how great it is to have friends, and how it’s more satisfying to keep these friendships. And from the last few days, I've learned that my true home does not depend on where I was born, or where I’m the most talented, but where I can make the most of my life and what gives me the most happiness. Sure, I have some magical studies waiting for me in Equestria, but to me, no magic Princess Celestia can teach me, nor pony versions of people I know, will be able to replace the friendships I’ve made and will continue to gain right here.”
Princess Twilight was surprised, but knew where this was going.
“After all,” Sunset began, before Twilight leaned directly alongside her, resulting in the two finishing the sentence together. “Friendship is magic.”
“So… wait… that means..." Fluttershy gasped.
“Yep!” Sunset declared. “Well, barring ambassador duties, but I think it’s safe to say I’ve found my true home. We may be more spread apart, but I’ve got more friends to make here, more good to bring to this world, and most importantly, more things to discover.” She finished with a blissful smile that warmed everyone's hearts around her.
"Sunset," said a smiling Applejack, "I think I speak for all of us when I say that I'm glad you have discovered this for yourself. I know a lot of us struggled in figuring out our futures after high school, like how I had to think about my college education and also being there for my family, but our moments of realization do eventually come, and it's especially great to see you've found yours."
This only widened Sunset's smile even further. "Thanks, Applejack. You're right, it really does feel so satisfying..."
“I'm glad you have made your choice, Sunset Shimmer,” said Princess Twilight, in a regal tone. “I can’t say if it was the choice I would have made, but what’s important is that it was your choice. And I know Princess Celestia would be really proud of you.”
The words and regal tone only reminded Sunset of the monarch in question, and conveyed to her that Twilight was indeed fit to be royalty.
Now it was Sunset’s turn to cry. “I-I’ll never forget you, Twilight.”
The two gave the biggest beams they’ve had all day, and Sunset’s friends all hugged the fiery-haired girl from all directions, which only broke Sunset’s dam even further.
***
“Dear Princess Twilight,
I can’t believe I haven’t written you in the week since the after-party. I’m still amused at Starlight’s fascination over human technology...
Anyway, all of the girls are more excited than ever for their futures, as am I. As co-ambassadors of Equestria, we will be sure to remain in close contact, but the best part is that only one of us will have to do the visiting each time a meeting is arranged, meaning the more busy ones like Applejack and Fluttershy won’t have to take much time out of their lives. Rarity already has a new Equestria-themed fashion line in mind based off the clothing she saw during her visit, Pinkie Pie is discovering new, ‘innovative’ ways to party thanks to pony Pinkie’s input (who would've thought they already met each other), and along with her new Everton studies set to begin this Fall, your own counterpart is dabbling a little bit into the new study of inter-dimensional relations. Let me tell you, it's really fulfilling for her to form a new field on her own.
As for me, well if anything I think I’m more excited than any of them. The friendships I have here, even apart from my best friends, means more to me than any magical spells ever could. And I’ve learned that, sometimes, being part of an unfamiliar environment can only open new opportunities. I’m already set to pass on my Equestrian knowledge to international representatives and news outlets alike, and possibly even a book so the whole world can understand this dimension that has suddenly started to exist in their lives. I’ll admit I’m not used to getting this much attention, but I always remind myself of just how far I've come and it makes me so proud to be in this position.
Sure, I don’t have much of a long-term future planned right now, but I have learned that’s sometimes part of the fun. I have had quite an interesting adventure so far here, and I know that this is just the beginning. Who knows where I will be in 5 or even 10 years, but until then, I’ve got my artistic passion, close ties with Canterlot High (did I mention I’ve got an interview next week for their junior consultant opening?), and of course, long-distance friendships. And that’s more than enough motivation for me.
Thanks very much for everything you’ve done, Princess Twilight. I may only pop in Equestria for business purposes, but no matter what happens, know that I will always share a piece of my heart with everyone I know there.
Sincerely,
Sunset Shimmer”
Sunset looked over her message with pure pride. Just because magic was removed from the human world, that didn’t mean magical objects from Equestria couldn’t still function. Now enough protections were in place to prevent any channeling magic from becoming a problem ever again. This time, however, before closing the journal, she slowly skimmed through the pages as she flipped them backwards. Sure, all of the messages were from her Senior year, as she needed to have it replaced after her junior year, but there were still an awful lot of fantastic memories, which only brought more to her head.
She knew she could not let anything happen to this. It was, after all, the single most meaningful possession she’s ever had. So, keeping her blissful smile, she opened a rarely opened secret compartment on her desk. Keeping her eyes shut, she carefully let go of the journal when it was placed inside the space, right next to the first journal.
After closing the compartment, she looked up to her main shelf, which held a number of portraits of her happiest moments from the Dazzlings fight to her graduation, as well as the tank for her pet gecko Ray. Her lips pulled close and her eyes brightened as she looked at the tiny yellow reptile, always wanting to look cute for him. Just his silent, relaxed company proved very comforting for her. She kept this up for a couple minutes before some familiar voices could be heard through the window.
“C’mon, Sunset darling!” Rarity called.
“Yeah, don’t keep us waiting!” said Rainbow Dash.
Sunset Shimmer, not wanting to waste another moment, eagerly grabbed her pre-packed bag and rushed out her townhouse door. The girls were all waiting for her in their band's bus, enthusiastically waving at her, all wearing sunglasses and/or sunhats.
After hopping into the ride, Pinkie pointed into the horizons and announced, “Next stop: Baltimare Beach!”
Some excited squealing followed, and before long, the bus took off. And one of the first things it passed was the school and its nearly-rebuilt statue with builders putting the final touches on the new equine figure. But instead of the school mascot, the figure was instead an Equestrian-shaped unicorn that everyone in the bus immediately recognized as Sunset Shimmer.
And before long, the vehicle and the girls could be seen disappearing into the horizon, as the seven departed for a much-needed vacation.
The End
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Not a bad conclusion, all in all.
I enjoyed the ending with sunset still being with her friends after graduating CHS I still hope the actual Equestria Girls series will get a proper ending and that it might be similar to this but still this sure was a great story and I'm glad sunset stayed on earth I give this story a thumbs up 👍
Alright, so I finished reading this up.
Let's start with room for improvement:
Now, I wouldn't want to point out specific examples of grammar/spelling errors unless they're very egregious, but an error in the synopsis needs to be pointed out. I'm guessing you meant "to seek out their futures," right?
As for the story itself: there are very few grammar errors here, few enough that they're just momentary stops in the story. They didn't detract a lot from my experience with the story, so that's great. You're pretty good on the technical side of writing.
The only other thing that might've detracted from it (though, in hindsight, I'm not so sure) is how nonchalant Sunset and Sci-Twi were in Equestria when things were going horribly back on Earth. Yes, it is to de-stress and relax from all the stress of Sunset's decision and the disaster happening back home, but considering that they may not know how fast the magic is spreading on the other side, a spa trip seems a bit too much. Then again, perhaps I'm just reading my panicky self into the lines, so take the above with a grain of salt.
Now, on to the bright side: At first, I thought that some of your prose was too telly. However, later on, I realized that this, combined with the story's Everybody rating, gave me a sort of nostalgia: that, really, this prose wouldn't be too out of place in the Geronimo Stilton series, which I loved a lot back then, or even the My Little Pony chapter books (though I haven't read any of them yet). So, in terms of prose/tone being as faithful to the show as possible, you nailed it.
Sunset's conflict about either staying on Earth or going back to Equestria isn't exactly a new thing, judging by how many fics here tackled the subject, but it's refreshing to see the take-a-third-choice compromise done right (and as faithful to the show as possible too!) Both Sunset and her friends realize and come to terms with their flaws in thinking the way they do about Sunset's conflict, so when the compromise is actually done, it doesn't feel like a cheat—rather, it's well earned. Among other things, I certainly didn't expect the Humane Seven to become Earth's ambassadors to Equestria... but, really, this feels like the logical conclusion with Equestria Girls' magic fiascos becoming ever more public. On that note and more, this really does fulfill its role as a what-if Equestria Girls finale.
On top of that, you portrayed the characters well. Not much else I can say here other than: keep doing what you're doing there.
Overall, this is a great story and, if it were official, would be a perfectly fitting end to the spin-off franchise! Thank you for this riveting tale!
9888420
How did I miss that? Well, it's fixed now.
I'm glad you saw my take as a fresh one. The "homesick Sunset" concept was actually kind of where the story began; when I found out about the deleted scenes in Friendship Games, I strongly believed they should bring the idea back. Not only that, but I also thought they should go more all out than FG would've, because I always found Sunset's background - being the only pony to fully become human, both physically and mentally - beyond fascinating, thus I felt it should be pushed to its most natural extreme. And as time went on, I decided that a finale would be the best place to put it, as it would really be the perfect way to conclude her character, I thought. Yeah, the series has given plenty of signs that Sunset's true home is the human world, but it's the kind of life decision that I think should be made concrete, especially considering her background.
And while I was well aware going in that this was a popular idea among fic writers, I never really came across a take that presented itself as something trying to resemble an official story. That's not a knock against those takes at all, of course - one of the wonderful things about fanfics is its ability to tackle whatever flavor you choose - but it is a version I thought people would want to see. Plus, with the mini-outline that Cameron Marston offered (he came up with the portal breaking, the Humane Six visiting Equestria, and them ending up as ambassadors), I found this very naturally fit in as the emotional core.
You are very welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed the story and viewed it as a worthy finale to EqG. I'm still holding out hope we will eventually find out what Nick Confalone actually had in mind, or at least get some conclusion on Sunset's character in a IDW comic.
But until (and, more importantly, if) that happens, I believe this would very much soften the blow to anyone who are disappointed with the series being pulled like it did. I know writing this story has felt very satisfying for me, in just getting a full-blown, convincing headcanon out there.
A nice piece with some neat ideas and cool setpieces, but also arguable plot holes, OOC moments and "could-have-beens". In other words - congrats in managing to perfectly create an EQG special!
10285770
Yes but I still think the show ain't over
i think that your ending is not exactly an ending. The question arises: What if Sunset and Flash had kids?
That would be where MLP EG would end.
after when they graduated what jobs and careers did they have?