> Sunset's Beauty > by D0CT0RWHOOVES > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > CH.1 Arrival > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- To anyone else the day would have seemed just like any other day. It was mid-summer and everything was beautiful this time of year. The birds were chirping and the flowers were in bloom. Today was a model of beauty. But today was not like all days to one person, Sunset Shimmer. Today was the day she decided to go back to her real home, Equestria and make amends with those who she wronged. She had been contemplating doing this ever sense Twilight Sparkle had left after her reforming at the Fall Formal. She had thought of returning to her real home and apologizing to Her former mentor Celestia. She hoped to apologize to Twilight Sparkle, for she had stolen her crown and forced her on a journey like no other. She truly felt horrible for everything and wanted nothing more than to apologize and be allowed to stay in Equestria. So there she stood, in front of the portal disguised as a statue. Today was the first day it would be open. "Alright the time has finally come, i will return and ask for forgiveness, I hope i am accepted back." Sunset thought to herself. She took one step forward towards the portal. She looked around to see if there was anyone else around by any chance, though since it was summer she doubted it. She in fact saw no one around. This made everything easier, she didn't need anyone else knowing about the portal, that could cause chaos. She took one last glace at the scenery, it really was a beautiful day. She took in a big breath and walked into the portal. It was just that moment she also walked through the other side as a unicorn. She was thankful everything seemed to work like it should. She walked forward and looked around in the room she was in, that is if she could see. She started to panic thinking that somehow she had become blind after using the portal, but then she realized that maybe there just weren't any lights on. She channeled her magic into making a light which she did with ease. After figuring out that in fact the lights where just off she face hoofed for jumping to a conclusion. But at the same time she was happy she still knew how to use magic. She looked around in the room to see it just as it was when she left it. She took a moment to remissness, but quickly got back to her objective. She knew the portal had been moved to the Crystal Empire from Canterlot so she knew the ponies she was searching for were not on the other side of the door but in fact were many miles away. She decided to sit down to contemplate her options of reaching Canterlot where at least Celestia would be and possibly Twilight given she is a Princess now. She thought of just walking out and buying a ticket to Canterlot but she realized some problems with that plan. For one she could get caught and she would have no plausible excuse for wandering around in the crystal castle, and she did not need to be arrested. The second problem was she had no bits on her so the train was out even if she managed to get there. She thought for a while longer and mentally face hoofed. She could just teleport to Canterlot! Why hadn't she thought about it, long distance teleportation was one of the first things she learned from Celestia! She decided this was the way to go, she would teleport right to Celestia. She decided to teleport into the dining hall as it was evening when she left the human world and their times were the same so she expected her to be there. She concentrated on her destination and in a moment was gone. "I am so glad you and your friends could join us for lunch today Twilight" Celestia said with genuine joy. "No problem at all Princess, I am honored you would ask us to have lunch with you" Twilight replied "You know you don't have to call me Princess, we are equals now" Celestia said and then let out a small chuckle At this Twilight blushed but just smiled and nodded as a response "Well ah am as hungry as a hog, ah say we dig in!" Applejack declared "Applejack use your manners when in the company of royalty!" Rarity stated "Manners shanners, dig in!" Rainbow replied and immediatly began to eat Twilight just sighed and began to eat. Celestia chuckled and too began to eat. Just as everypony had begun to eat their food a bright flash encompassed the room. Everpony covered there eyes to avoid going blind. When they all opened their eyes they saw a light orange unicorn. Twilight, Spike, and Celestia all gasped, the others just stared slack jawed at the sudden arrival. "Sunset Shimmer?" Celestia, Spike and Twilight all said in unison. "Yes it is I, I have come back to apologize and ask for forgiveness" Sunset Shimmer replied. "You want forgiveness?" Asked Spike "Yes I do, I want to apologize to you all and ask for forgiveness." Sunset replied. Everpony else was just beginning to regain composure. Rainbow Dash just remembered that this was the unicorn that stole Twilight's crown, so without further thought she tackled the unicorn "And what makes you think you deserve to be forgiven, thief!?" Rainbow yelled at Sunset. "Rainbow!" Twilight yelled "Nothing, i don't deserve to be forgiven" Sunset shimmer deadpanned "Then why are you here!?" Rainbow replied "To at least let everyone know i am sorry and hope for forgiveness" Sunset said in a slightly depressed tone Twilight had seen enough and levitated Rainbow Dash off of Sunset Shimmer "Hey what are you doing!? let me at her!" Rainbow yelled "No Rainbow we do not use violence! and I for one does think she deserves forgiveness" Twilight retorted. "WHAT!?" Everpony replied but Spike, Celestia and Luna. After the brightly colored pegasus was removed from her Sunset got back on her hooves. After hearing Twilight's comment she just looked at her with a happy and relieved expression on her face. "But dear she stole your crown and almost trapped you in that other world, how can you forgive her?" Asked Rarity. "Fer once ah agree with Rarity, she can't be trusted, not atall" Applejack added. "Yeah she's just a big meanie face!" Pinkie added. Rainbow just nodded at each statement and Fluttershy opted to remain quiet. After hearing Twilight's friends rejections to her apology Sunset's smile faded and was replaced with a frown. "Well I for one think she also deserves to be forgiven, I was there too you know, I know what happened. She seemed very sorry back then and seems like it now as well" Spike responded to the three mares. After hearing what Spike had to say Sunset's Smile returned. "Out of all of them I didn't expect him to be so forgiving, after all for a dragon he is still a baby, and i did just as much bad to him if not more than Twilight." Sunset thought, but was happy non the less. "I agree with Spike, though I also agree with Applejack, we can not be so quick to trust her, but i do believe she deserves a chance to show us she means no harm." "What did you have in mind sister?" Luna asked her older sister "I was thinking, since both Twilight and Spike are willing to forgive her, she could live with them for a year at the library. At the end of that year Twilight and Spike will determine if she has truly changed." Celestia suggested "But what if there is a tie?" Luna responded "Then I shall have them both explain there reasons and I will decide." Celestia responded Sunset was just standing there, waiting for her judgement. When she heard the idea she thought it was in fact a good one, much more than she expected, in fact she had expected to not be forgiven and locked up for treason. "Twilight, Spike do you agree with this course of action?" Celestia asked. "Yes Princess" They responded in unison. "And Sunset Shimmer, do you agree with this course of action?" Celestia asked again "I do your highness" Sunset replied. "Then it is settled, I wish you the best of luck" Celestia turned her gaze to Twilight's friends and added "I do hope you will give her a chance." "We will, but we won't like it" Rainbow replied for the group, the rest just nodded. "Then I suggest you all return home, you have a big day tomorrow." Celestia said and then took her leave with Luna. Sunset couldn't suppress the biggest smile she could muster, this had gone so much better than planned, she might even make a few friends. She saw Twilight and Spike walking up to her, so she looked to them. "Well Sunset, it looks like you'll be staying with us for a while." Spike said with a hint of joy. > CH.2 A New Home > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "It seems I will, I just want to apologize again, to the both of you." Sunset responded to both Spike and Twilight. "I forgive you, you aren't a bad pony, you just made some wrong decisions in your life and want to fix that." Twilight responded and gave a smile "Yeah what she said, I'm just happy I’m not a dog anymore." After saying so Spike looked at his thumbs "Oh how I missed you, opposable thumbs." Both Twilight and Sunset gave a lighthearted chuckle to Spike's love of his thumbs. "Careful Spike, give them too much attention and Rarity might get jealous." Twilight said in a joking tone. "No she wouldn't, I mean I don't think she will... would she?" Spike replied nervously. Twilight began to laugh at Spike for this. Sunset however hadn't the slightest clue as to what they were talking about. She knew a Rarity back from Canterlot High, but she didn't know anything about this. To be honest she never paid too much attention to anyone else back then, too busy with evil plotting. "If you don't mind me asking why would Rarity be jealous?" Sunset asked the duo. "Oh well you see Spike has cru" But Twilight was cut off by Pinkie popping out of Twilight's saddlebag and saying "Forever!" "Oh yeah Pinkie Promise, sorry I can't say." Twilight offered Sunset instead of an answer. Sunset just nodded as a response as she knew what a Pinkie promise was and the consequences of breaking one. She had to make a Pinkie promise to the human world's Pinkie after the dance to never be evil again. But her thought was cut short when she heard Spike start to speak up. "You know what, you can tell her Twi, she is going to be living with us for a while, so I guess she would eventually find out, and maybe she'll even help me!" After saying so Spike began to give Sunset his puppy dog eyes. (These were perfected during his time as a dog.) "Well you see Spike here has a crush on Rarity, I keep telling him that it will never happen but he is persistent, I'll give him that." Twilight told Sunset Again Sunset nodded but she also remembered something from the human world. She remembered that Rarity had a boyfriend, some guy by the name of Thunderlane or something. She had never really cared, but now she thought that maybe the same thing was true on this side of the portal. She decided she would tell Twilight to see if she knows, or they can figure that out then. Sunset didn't want Spike hating her for crushing his dreams especially on her first day in Equestria. "Hey Twilight, can I tell you something in private?" Sunset asked with nervousness in her voice. "Sure, Spike can you pack our things so we can leave soon?" Twilight asked to Spike. Spike just saluted and ran off to their room in the castle to pack. "Okay, so what did you need to tell me Sunset?" Twilight asked. Sunset shifted nervously, she didn't want to crush Spike dreams on her first day of being here but she also thought that hearing it from her or Twilight would be better than him finding out about it on his own. It would be so much easier to just not tell her and her mean nature was telling her to do just that. But that is one of the problems about being a good pony, the nicest option is not the easiest. She just sighed. "Well you see this is about Spike, well more about his crush." Sunset started. "Oh I see, you like him don't you?" Twilight asked with a sly grin and began to giggle afterwards. Sunset could feel the blood rising to her face. "Well he is cute but that not what I am getting at." "Nononono, it's not like that, what I meant is in the human world Rarity has a boyfriend and I thought that maybe she does here to, and I didn't exactly want him finding that out on his own." Sunset replied, obviously flustered. "Hehehe, I know I'm just teasing, but no I have no clue about that, I will have to ask her sometime after we get back to Ponyville. You’re right though, I would rather tell him than figure it out on his own, it would hurt less, thanks." Twilight responded. "My thoughts exactly." Sunset replied, finally calming down. "So where in Ponyville do you live?" "Spike and I live in the library, it's in a tree, can't miss it." Twilight answered. Sunset began to imagine the irony of a library in a tree. The thought made her laugh. "So anyway how about we go help Spike pack, my friends seemed to have already left so we should hurry it up a bit." Twilight said. "I agree." Sunset replied. The two of them began to walk to Twilight and Spike's room. Along the way Twilight thought of a question she had been meaning to ask Sunset since they met. "So what was it like when you were Celestia's student?" Twilight asked. "Oh, um, well she was very kind to me and very patient even when I was having a lot of trouble understanding a spell. Kindness I took for granted, I only wanted more and more. I'm sure she told you what happened." Sunset answered with a depressed tone. "Yeah she did, but you feel bad about now don't you? I mean isn't that why your here, because you’re sorry?" Twilight asked. "Yeah I am, I feel horrible for abusing her trust. I feel horrible for being selfish. I am also sorry for everything I did to you and your friends." Sunset replied After saying this she began to tear up. She remembered she had been a terrible pony. She decided to sit down for a moment to just regain her composure. This however did not go unnoticed by Twilight. Twilight walked over to Sunset and wrapped a wing around her. "Hey it's okay, Spike and I forgive you and I’m sure everyone else will too after they get to know you." Twilight reassured Sunset. Sunset began to regain her composure. "Yeah, thanks. That means a lot right now." Sunset responded. "If you ever need anything Spike and I are your friends, we will help you with anything if you need it." Twilight reassured. "Thank you, it's nice to have friends, I wish I had known it sooner." Sunset responded. Sunset decided to get back so they could get back their home. Well her temporary home but home none the less. They walked the rest of the way in silence. It took about two minutes to get to their room. Once they got there Twilight opened the door to see Spike resting atop their luggage. "Awww that's adorable." Twilight levitated Spike on to her back and levitate their luggage. "Well it seems that he packed everything, I'm sure the train has left so I'm just going to teleport up all there okay?" Sunset just nodded as a response and prepared to be teleported. "Alright here we go." Twilight said. In a moment the trio went from being in the Canterlot castle to in front of a giant tree. "Well Sunset Shimmer, welcome to your new home" Twilight said with glee. > CH.3 Re-shelving > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Well you weren't joking when you said that it was a tree.” said Sunset slightly bewildered. “Nope, come on let’s put everything away.” Twilight said already beginning to unpack. “Okay sure.” responded Sunset. The two of them began to unpack the many bags in silence. Sunset wondered why exactly she had brought all of this, to her knowledge Twilight had just gone there for lunch with Celestia. She decided to ask Twilight. “Hey Twilight, why did you bring all of this stuff to the castle just to have lunch?” Sunset asked with confusion in her voice. “Oh no, Spike and I were there for a week. We had been planning on staying another week but you kinda showed up.” Twilight responded. “Oh, sorry for making you leave early.” Sunset said. “Oh it’s no big deal, besides I just remembered what today is!” Twilight responded, obviously happy about something. “What, exactly, is today?” Sunset asked. Twilight set down everything she had been levitating and turned to face Sunset. “Why, today is re-shelving day!” Twilight answered rather gleefully. “Um, yay?” Sunset responded, voice heavy with sarcasm. “Oh my, you like re-shelving to!? I thought I was the only one who understands it’s importance!” After Twilight said this she began to bounce. “But apparently you don’t understand sarcasm.” Sunset mumbled under her breath. “Did you say something?” asked Twilight. “No nothing, how about I start from A to M and you do N to Z?” Sunset replied. “Okay, oh this will be so much fun!” Twilight replied. So Both Sunset Shimmer and Twilight Sparkle began re-shelve the library, occasionally having a small conversation about this and that. They worked for about an hour before they heard mumbling from the resting dragon. “Uh what time is it?” Said Spike as he was waking up. “It’s five Spike.” Twilight replied not even turning to look at him. “Oh really? Well I’m going to go make us some dinner, now I get to cook for three instead of two.” Spike replied with a small amount of enthusiasm in his voice. Spike walked off into the kitchen. Sunset looked to Twilight. “Does he like to cook?” Sunset asked. Twilight decided to look at Sunset to answer. “He cooks for me every day when we are here. Not only is he an amazing cook, he loves to do it. That and my last attempt at cooking almost burned down the tree. We had to buy a new stove.” Twilight responded with a small shudder as she spoke. “What in Celestia’s name were you trying to make?” Sunset asked. “Cereal.” Twilight said barely above a whisper. Twilight looked to the ground in shame. While Sunset, on the other hoof was on the ground laughing like there was no tomorrow. As a response Twilight just scowled at her. “Hey pouring milk is really tricky you know!” Twilight said in anger. “Oh Celestia hahaha, you caused a fire with a liquid. Oh my ribs, they hurt!” Sunset managed to say in between laughs. For a good ten minutes all Sunset could do was roll on the ground laughing uncontrollably. All Twilight did was stand there with a scowl on her face, trying to figure out how exactly she DID set a fire with liquid. Sunset however had finally managed to calm down. “Oh my, That has to be the best laugh I have ever had.” Sunset said while still giggling. “Oh hahaha, laugh it up!” Twilight said still miffed. “You’re right it isn't that funny, I’m sorry.” Sunset said having finally stopped giggling. “Thank you” Twilight said, wiping the scowl off her face. The two of them went back to re-shelving for about thirty minutes when they heard Spike call for dinner. The two walked into the kitchen to eat. Spike had prepared spaghetti for the trio. They all took a seat around the table. “Wow this looks amazing Spike.” Sunset said, drooling slightly. “Thanks Sunset, but what was so funny out there?” Spike asked At this Sunset lost it again and fell to the floor laughing for the second time. Twilight just wore a bored expression and sighed. “Oh you told her about the cereal didn't you?” Spike asked Twilight just nodded and began to eat. Spike put some jewels on his spaghetti. For five minutes Sunset just laughed uncontrollably all the while managing to say the words, cereal, milk and how, through her laughing fit. though she soon got up and back in her chair and began to eat using her magic. “Done yet?” Twilight asked with annoyance in her voice. “Yes I think I’m done.” Sunset replied, still giggling a bit. The rest of their meal was eaten in silence, except for a few small conversations about the weather or something as equally arbitrary. After they finished up Spike offered to do the dishes, both the mares thanked him and went back to re-shelving. “Spike is very nice, not only does he make us dinner but then cleans up afterwards, he is a true gentlecolt or er gentledragon.” Sunset said. “Yeah he always has been, he helps out in anyway he can.” Twilight replied, when suddenly a question popped into her head. “Hey Sunset?” Twilight called. “Yes?” Sunset replied. “What does your cutie mark mean, it looks like the sun and the moon together.” Twilight asked. “It because i am very good at using both light and dark types of magic, Celestia showed me a bit of dark magic and I was a natural at it as I was with light magic.” Sunset answered nonchalantly. “You know dark magic?” Twilight asked. “A bit, the most impressive spell I know is I can make it dark as night when the sun is out for a bit.” Sunset answered. Twilight dropped every book she was levitating and rushed over to Sunset. “You can do that! I thought only Luna and Celstia could!” Twilight said in bewilderment. “I can’t do it for long, can also do the opposite, you know light up the night.” Sunset replied. “You have to teach me!” Twilight begged. “Hmmmm maybe later but not now, we have books to re-shelve remember?” Sunset replied with a sly grin on her face. “Fine.” Twilight replied, pretty miffed. They worked for another five minutes when they heard Spike walk in. “Hey I’m going to bed, night Twi, night Sunset.” Spike said as he was walking upstairs. “Night Spike.” the two mares said in unison. After Spike left Sunset Twilight went back to work. It took them about another hour before they finished. “And done.” Said Twilight. “Finally.” Replied Sunset as she just flopped down on her stomach. “Well I am going to stay up and do a bit of studying, why don’t you go to bed? The guest room is upstairs on the left. Twilight said. “Mhm” Sunset mumbled not really listening, already walking up the stairs. Once Sunset got up the stairs she saw two doors, one on the left one on the right. She went into the door on her left knowing it was her room. when she walked in however she saw Spike on the bed, she was sure this was her room. But in her tired state she didn't bother thinking about it for too long and just got on the bed next to Spike. She might have to explain later but she didn't care at the moment. She curled up on the bed and felt Spike hug her. She just found the action cute and she smiled. Sleep soon overtook her.   > CH.4 Ice Cream > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset had been sleeping a dreamless but good sleep. She was awoken by the sound of the opening of a door. She didn’t open her eyes and just decided to lay there for a while. Sunset could feel an arm around her however and she was about to open her eyes when she heard a mare say “Awwwww!” As soon as she heard this she snapped her eyes open to see her and Spike cuddling on the bed. Her first thought was to move away as fast as possible. So she did just that and managed to throw herself onto the floor. After she landed on the floor she let out an audible groan. She could now hear a mare laughing her flank off and Spike waking up. Twilight soon calmed down. “You know, that was really cute Sunset.” Twilight exclaimed. “Thanks a ton.” Sunset replied, voice dripping with sarcasm. Spike was soon fully awake. He saw Sunset on the floor and Twilight with a huge grin standing in the doorway. “Umm, did I miss something?” Spike asked. “Just you and Sunset cuddling.” Twilight said having to hold back from laughing. At this both Sunset and Spike’s faces were as red as an apple. Twilight once again began to laugh at the two. “Yes, very funny.” Sunset said. Sunset decided to stand up now. Spike decided he was going to go make breakfast to avoid any more awkwardness. “Well I’m going to go make breakfast.” Spike said as he was walking out of the door. After he left Twilight looked back at Sunset with a big grin. “Spike and Sunset sitting in a tree.” Twilight started. Sunset as a response put her hoof to Twilight’s lips and then said “Oh shush.” Though all the while her face being even redder than it had been before. Twilight swatted away Sunset’s hoof and began to giggle. “You like him, don’t you?” Twilight asked with a childish tone in her voice. “O-Of course not. What gives you t-that idea?” Sunset answered with a very nervous tone. “Okay suuuure, just fix your bed then come down for breakfast.” Twilight replied leaving the room. Sunset began to use her magic to fix the covers on the bed. “Of course I don’t like him. I mean yeah, he’s very nice and cute. Wait, did I really just think that? No, bad thoughts, go sit in the corner until I’m done.” She mentally berated herself. She tried her hardest to keep thoughts like those out of her head. She came to the conclusion it was Twilight’s fault for even mentioning such nonsense.  It didn't take her more than a few minutes to finish fixing the sheets and she went downstairs. Halfway down she could smell pancakes. She decided she really wanted to eat those pancakes and hurried up. While doing so she fell down the stairs. “Ow” Sunset exclaimed. She got back on her hooves and walked into the kitchen to see Spike making pancakes. “Good morning Spike.” Sunset said very cheery sounding. “Morning.” Spike replied. Sunset looked around the room for Twilight but she did not see her. “Hey, where’s Twilight?” Sunset asked. “She said something about having to go to Canterlot and being gone all day.” Spike answered. Sunset instantly thought this was a joke from Twilight to somehow push her towards Spike. Even though she was miffed, just the thought made her blush. “Hey, why is your face all red? Are you just feeling sick? Is it too hot in here?” Spike asked with genuine concern. “Nope, you are though.” Sunset replied under voice and immediately put her hoof over her lips. “Where the buck did that come from?!” Sunset asked herself. “What?” Spike asked. “Oh nothing, just that it is hot in here, I’m going to go get fresh air, call me when breakfast is done!” She said and hurried outside. “Weird mare, but cute.” Spike said without thinking. “Wait why did I say that?” Sunset stepped outside for more than fresh air, to get away from Spike. “I blame Twilight for that. Smart of her playing mind games, I’ll have to get her back.” She thought to herself. She decided to walk a bit but not too far from the library as she knew breakfast would be done soon. Before she knew it a bright pink mare, who she instantly recognized as Pinkie Pie, was right in front of her. She bumped into her and fell on her flank. “Hey watch where you're going! I mean excuse me.” Sunset said. “Oops sorry Sunny. I just was coming over to talk to you.” Pinkie said, all the while giggling. Sunset got back to her hooves and helped Pinkie do the same. “What did you need to talk about?” Sunset asked. “While I’m not sure if I forgive you yet, you’re still new in Ponyville so I have to throw you a huge ‘Welcome to Ponyville’ party!” Pinkie said happily. “Wow, thank you!” Sunset replied. “Yup, it’s what I do! Oh, here are the invitations for you, Twilight and Spike!” The pink party pony said before handing her 3 invitations. “Wow, thank you.” Sunset with genuine joy. “Yup, now I have to go hand out the rest, byeeee.” Pinkie said and began to bounce away. “Odd but nice.” thought to herself. She began to walk back to the library. She got there quickly and was greeted by Spike. “Hey Sunset, you’re just in time, I just finished.” Spike said Spike look at the three invitations she was levitating. “What are those?” Spike asked. “Oh, these are invitations to a ‘Welcome to Ponyville’ party from Pinkie.” Sunset answered. “Awesome!” Spike said as he took his. Sunset just smiled and opened her’s to see when it was. It was to held at five p.m. tomorrow. She smiled and thought maybe she would be accepted and forgiven by Twilight’s friends. “Well come on let’s go eat!” Spike said happily running into the kitchen. Sunset followed and took a seat. She began to stare at the mound of pancakes. Without a word she began to put a bunch on her plate, slather them in syrup and then eat. The meal was eaten in silence. In thirty minutes they had eaten the entire stack. Sunset just lied on the floor beside Spike, rubbing her stomach with a satisfied grin. “That was the best breakfast I have ever had.” Sunset commented. “Thanks, it means a lot.” Spike replied. “Doesn't Twilight thank you like this every time, I don’t know how she couldn't.” Sunset asked. “Yeah but it’s nice to hear it from someone new.” Spike answered. Sunset just laid there for a while. She eventually got up. “So what’s the plan for today?” Sunset asked. “Well, I’m going to go help Rarity.” Spike answered. “Oh, hey do you mind if I come?” Sunset asked. “Not really but why do you want to come?” Spike asked “Maybe if I spend time with your and Twilight's friends they will accept and forgive me.” Sunset answered. “Okay. Let’s get going then.” Spike said. Spike got up and began to walk to the door, Sunset just followed in silence. It was a short walk to Carousel Boutique, but an enjoyable one. Random ponies waved to Sunset and she waved back.  She liked not being judged. When they got there Spike knocked on the front door. “One moment please.” Said a voice from inside, whom Sunset recognized as Rarity. So the two waited for a moment and soon the door opened and they were greeted by a white unicorn. “Oh hello Spikey-Wikey.” Rarity greeted. “Spikey-Wikey?” Sunset asked while giggling. “Oh, and hello to you too Sunset Shimmer.” Rarity greeted with less enthusiasm. “Hello to you too Rarity.” Sunset replied. “Not to be rude, but what are the two of you doing here?” Rarity asked. “I came over to help since Twilight is gone for the day and Sunset wanted to come along.” Spike answered to the mare of his dreams. “Ah I see, well do come in Spike. Sunset, if I may speak to you for a moment?” Rarity said. “Sure.” Sunset replied somewhat nervous. Spike went in the shop happily. Rarity walked over to Sunset. “Look Sunset, I know both Spike and Twilight trust you, but I don’t trust you as far as I can throw you. I hope you know this.” Rarity said sternly. “Depends, how far can you throw me?” Sunset said laughing at her own joke. “Funny.” Rarity said not amused. “Sorry. Hey Rarity, I need to ask you something.” Sunset said “And what is that?” Rarity asked “Well, in the human world you were dating a guy named Thunderlane and I was wondering if you were too.” Sunset asked nervously. “Well since you know, there is no sense denying it. Yes I am but I have not told anypony yet. Why do you ask?” Rarity answered. “Oh, no reason.” Sunset replied with a saddened tone. “Spike is going to be so hurt.” “Yes well come in, might as well get some work done.” Rarity said walking into her shop. They both walked into the shop and decided to just sit and watch unless asked something. She wanted to think what she was going to do about Spike and Rarity. She watched Spike cater to Rarity’s every whim. She felt bad for Spike and angry at Rarity. “She’s just leading him on! Even I didn't do that!” Sunset thought to herself. She sat there for about three hours before the two of them were done. “Thank you very much Spikey-Wikey, I doubt I would have finished without your help.” Rarity thanked. “Aww, it was nothing.” Spike said while on cloud-nine. Sunset said nothing as the two of them walked out of the store. “Isn't she amazing?” Spike asked still on another world. “She’s something.” Sunset grumbled. “I’m sorry, what did you say?” Spike asked. “Oh, nothing.” Sunset replied. The two walked back to the library in silence. Sunset began to think to herself. “Why do I care so much about his feelings? Not too long ago I would just laugh at him, but now I feel bad for him and slightly jealous of Rarity. Wait, what?” She stopped that train of thought where it was. They soon got back to the library. “So what do you want to do until Twi gets back?” Spike asked. Sunset looked at the clock and saw it was about one thirty in the afternoon. She looked around until she saw a bag of bits with a note attached. She walked up to them and began to read the note. “Sunset, I am leaving these for you in case you need them or whatever.” It was signed by Twilight. “Hmm, want to go get ice cream?” Sunset asked. “Like a date?” asked Spike asked in a joking tone. Sunset’s face turned crimson as soon as Spike said this. “Um... well I didn't... um...” Sunset said while stammering. “I was just joking. Didn't know you would get all flustered." Spike said. “Yes, well let’s just go get ice cream, I saw a place on the way to Rarity’s.” Sunset said. Her face was still a dark shade of red. The two began to walk to the place she had seen. It took about five minutes to get there. The two began to look at the menu. "So, Spike what do you want?" Sunset asked. “Umm, how about a vanilla cone with sapphires?” Spike requested. “They have gems here?” Sunset asked. “Once I started coming here, they did.” Spike answered. “Haha, okay go pick a table and I’ll be over soon.” Sunset replied. “Thanks for this.” Spike said. “No problem.” Sunset replied. Spike went and picked a table under a tree. Sunset went up to the counter to order. “Hello miss and what would you like today?” The stallion behind the counter asked. “I would like one vanilla cone with sapphires and one cookie dough in a cone.” Sunset replied. “Okay, that’ll be five bits.” the stallion replied. Sunset handed the stallion the bits and he went to go make the ice cream. He came back a few seconds later with it and he handed them to her. she thanked him and walked over to spike. She gave him his ice cream. “Thanks again for the ice cream.” Spike said in between licks. “No problem.” She replied. The two began to eat their ice cream. They occasionally talked about random things. Sunset was having a really good time. “So, Sunset can I ask you something?” Spike said finishing his ice cream. “Sure, what do you want to ask?” Sunset replied, also finishing her’s. “Why are you being so nice to me? I know you’re different after the dance but you didn't seem this nice. Are you just doing this so I’ll think you've changed?” Spike asked. Sunset was taken aback by this. It kinda hurt, he didn't trust her or really believe she had changed either. It hurt, she felt betrayed . She didn't really want to be here anymore so she she got up and started walking home to be alone. After a few seconds of walking she heard Spike running after her. “I didn't mean it! I’m really sorry Sunset. I think what everypony else is saying is getting to me.” Spike said with a tone of regret. Sunset just turned to face him. Her eyes were tearing up. She knew he felt bad but she couldn't help it. She still felt pain from everypony hating her. Instead of a verbal response Sunset just started to hug Spike and started to cry, Just a little. > CH.5 Sleepover > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The two just sat there in the middle of the street in each others embrace. Sunset was crying away all of her pent up emotions. Spike staying there to comfort her. They would get strange glances from passing ponies but after a glare from Spike they would keep walking. They sat there for what seemed an eternity. Yet in reality it was more like thirty minutes. Sunset soon began to regain her composure enough to speak a coherent sentence. “I’m sniff sorry for that Spike.” Sunset apologized. “It’s no problem, it was my fault anyway.” Spike replied. “No, it wasn’t.” Sunset stated. “Yes it was! I asked you that question and it was really inconsiderate of me!” Spike replied. Sunset just pulled him closer. “No, it’s that no one else trusts me.” Sunset replied. “I’m still sorry.” Spike said wiping away Sunset’s tears. “You're the best friend I've ever had Spike.” Sunset said with appreciation in her voice. “Thanks that means a lot.” Spike replied. Sunset decided it was time to get up and go back home. She levitated Spike onto her back and began to walk home. They walked in silence, it gave Sunset time to really think. “Okay, so maybe I do like Spike. Why does Twilight always have to be right? Ah well it actually feels good to admit it to myself.” Sunset thought to herself. Sunset could feel Spike hugging her neck as she walked. She suspected Spike was sleeping. They soon got back home. When she walked in she saw Twilight sitting reading a book, looking in their direction. Twilight lowered her book to look at the two. When she did she just got a huge childish grin. “Spike and Sunset, sitting in a tree.” Twilight started with a childish tone. Sunset blushed profusely at this, but at the same time started grinning. She turned to see if Spike was sleeping, he was. “Yeah well, you were right before.” Sunset stated. “About?” Twilight asked. “I do kinda like him.” Sunset stated shyly. What she heard next was the loudest “Awww” she had ever heard. She was sure the entire town had heard it, maybe even Canterlot. “You tell him?” Twilight asked, she was very giddy. “No, he still likes Rarity.” Sunset replied with a hint of anger. “Oh, that reminds me, we need to ask her about Thunderlane.” Twilight replied. Sunset levitated Spike onto a cushion on the floor. “I did, they are dating.” Sunset replied. “Oh, well what do you think we should do? I think we should tell him myself.” Twilight replied. “While I agree, it would hurt less. I would still feel bad, you know just crushing his dreams like that.” Sunset replied. “I can’t imagine he’ll be happy but, it’s for the best.” Twilight stated. “Yeah.” Sunset replied solemnly. “So, where were you two?” Twilight asked. “I took him out for ice cream.” Sunset answered. “You took him out on a date? Awww, that is so adorable.” Twilight stated, once again in a childish tone. Sunset once again began to blush. “Nono, it wasn't a date. If it was it wasn't a very good one however.” Sunset stated. “Oh? Why is that?” Twilight inquired. “Well it was good in the beginning, we got ice cream and were having a good time. It ended with me crying my eyes out in the middle of the street.” Sunset answered with a depressed tone. “What, why?! Did Spike do something?” Twilight asked. “No, it wasn't Spikes fault. In fact after I started crying he stayed there with me.” Sunset answered. “Oh, that was really nice of him.” Twilight replied. “Yeah, he’s sweet.” Sunset replied. “Well I have dinner ready so if you’re hungry we can wake up Spike and go eat.” Twilight said. “Oh no, please tell me you didn't cook.” Sunset said in mock fear. “Oh ha ha ha, no I bought it on the way back.” Twilight replied with annoyance. Sunset just smiled and walked into the kitchen while levitating Spike. Twilight followed her. Sunset set spike in a chair. Sunset saw Twilight had gotten them daisy sandwiches with hay fries. She had gotten Spike some hay fries and some rubies. “Thanks Twilight.” Sunset Said, taking her seat. “No problem. Oh and WAKE UP SPIKE!” Twilight yelled. Spike began to flip out at the sudden awakening. “Not cool Twilight.” Spike said. Twilight just stuck out her tongue as a response. Sunset laughed at the childish display. The three began to eat in silence. Sunset thought the food was good but she preferred Spike’s cooking. It didn't take long for them to finish their meals. “So what do you guys want to do now?” Twilight asked. Sunset began to think. She then remembered the invitation from Pinkie. She levitated Twilight's in from the main room and gave it to Twilight. “Here, Pinkie wanted me to give you this.” Sunset said. “Oh, thanks.” Twilight said reading it. “Oh, that’s nice of her, she’s throwing you a party.” Twilight said happily. “Yeah, she always throws the best parties!” Said Spike with enthusiasm. “I bet.” Sunset said dejectedly “Wait, you've never been to a Pinkie party? The other world has a Pinkie so why haven’t you gone to one?” Asked Spike. “Remember, it wasn't until after the fall formal that I was nice. No one liked me then.” Sunset replied with sadness. “Oh, yeah. Sorry.” Spike said with some amount of guilt of bringing it up. “It’s nothing, really.” Sunset replied. It was then they heard a knock on the door. “I wonder who that is.” Sunset said confused. “Oh, I completely forgot I asked my friends over for a sleepover.” Twilight said. “Well you can count me out, night!” Spike called already walking up the stairs. “Would you like to stay down here with us Sunset?” Twilight asked. “Um, I don’t think the others would like that very much.” Sunset replied. “Nonsense, this is your home too! Besides, maybe this will give them a chance to get to know you better!” Twilight said with joy. “Okay, I guess I will stay down.” Sunset replied nervously. “Wonderful!” Twilight said happily walking to the door. Sunset followed her to the door. Twilight opened it to reveal five mares. “Welcome! Come in!” Twilight said. “Thanks for having us over Twilight, I was looking forward to this all day!” Pinkie exclaimed excitedly. “Thanks partner.” Applejack said. The mares walked in. None of them noticed Sunset’s presence yet. Until Rainbow did then everyone looked at her. “And what’s she doing here?” Rainbow asked angrily. “You know she lives here too? Regardless, I asked her to stay so you all could get better acquainted.” Twilight responded, annoyance in her voice. Sunset just waved nervously and put on a smile. “I-I think that’s a good idea.” Fluttershy said barely above a whisper. “Hmm very well, you have a point.” Rarity said sitting down on a cushion. “Fine.” Rainbow replied. Pinkie was just bouncing around and Applejack was setting up their sleeping bags. “Good, so what do you girls want to do?” Twilight asked. Rarity immediately gained a big smile. “Why some girl talk of course!” Rarity answered. “Sounds wonderful.” Replied Twilight. “So do any of you have a crush on any cute stallions?” Rainbow asked. Sunset started to blush at this. Sunset felt Twilight nudge her. The others took note of this. “So ah take it you do Sunset? So who’s the stallion?” Applejack asked. Sunset could feel Twilight nudge her again. She was blushing even more than before. “Well tell them.” Twilight said in a childish tone. “Umm.. well...not really a stallion.” Sunset started, stammering horridly. “Oh, I didn't know you were like that.” Commented Rarity. Twilight fell over laughing after hearing this. “Wait no, I didn't mean it like that!” Sunset yelled in defense. “Well then if he’s not a stallion then who is…” Applejack trailed off, realizing who she meant. “I don’t get it.” Commented Pinkie. “Yeah the only guy I know that isn't a pony is….. oh” Rainbow said in realization. Sunset was blushing so much she could be mistaken for a tomato. “Are you saying you have a crush on..” Started Rarity “Spike.” Finished Sunset. There was a collective gasp from everyone in the room except Twilight. > CH.6 Truth or Dare > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The room was dead silent for what seemed to be an eternity. Everypony was just trying to comprehend what had just been said. Sunset was, on the other hoof, on the verge of a heart attack. She was ninety nine percent sure that they all hated her at this point. “Oh come on please say something! Anything!” She yelled in her mind. Pinkie was the first to break the silence. At first she just let a huge gasp. “Have you told him yet? Oh if you did, does he like you too? Do i get to hold a ‘Sunset and Spike are now dating party’?!” Pinkie asked with her usual enthusiasm. “Umm no I haven't said anything to him about it.” Sunset replied. “So no ‘Sunset and Spike are now dating party’?” Pinkie asked. “No.” Sunset replied. “Darn.” Pinkie replied. Everypony else had finally seemed to have at least calmed down. “Well, ah am surprised by this but, Spike is a really good guy so I guess you really couldn’t have fallen for a better guy.” Applejack exclaimed. Sunset was taken aback by Applejack’s acceptance. Sunset had not thought anypony would be so accepting. “While I am not all for that romance stuff, Spike is a pretty chill guy.” Rainbow added. “Wow, I thought that you would hate me even more than you did before.” Sunset said. “Why ever would you think that darling?” Rarity asked. “Well none you gals like me at all so I thought this would only make it worse.” Sunset answered. “Well I don’t dislike you, I just dislike what you did. Everyone deserves a second chance.” Fluttershy said with a certain draconequus on her mind. “Yeah silly, we don’t hate you! I’m sure you will make us see that you have changed.” Pinke added. “Princess Celestia wants me to give you a chance so I will. But I’m keeping my eye on you!” Rainbow stated. “Darling we don’t hate you. As for how we originally acted, we were just shocked, we have since calmed down.” Rarity stated. Applejack nodded in agreement with her fiends. Sunset began to tear up. She was so happy. She was being given a second chance to fix things! “Thanks, this really does mean a lot.” Sunset said on the verge of tears. “Yeah yeah, don’t get sappy on us now.” Rainbow said. “I think this calls for a group hug!” Pinkie said. So they did just that, much to Rainbow’s reluctance. “Okay, so does anypony else have a crush?” Rarity asked. “Well….um...I am seeing somepony.” Fluttershy answered barely above a whisper. The group let out a collective “oooooooooo.” “So who is this here mystery stallion?” Applejack added. “It’s… um….. Dis.” But she was cut off by a certain draconequus appearing. “Why that would be me! Discord, god of all things chaotic!” Discord stated. Discord then curled up next to Fluttershy and put his eagle claw around her. There was another collective gasp, from everypony except Sunset and Fluttershy. “I don’t get it, why is everyone so shocked?” Sunset commented. “That’s Discord! Didn’t you learn about when he ruled over Equestria?!” Twilight yelled. Sunset thought for a moment to recollect her thoughts. She then remembered who he was and what he had done. Sunset let out a scream and backed away from them. “Well that’s hardly a way to treat a guest Sunset Shimmer.” Discord commented, summoning some cotton candy for Fluttershy and himself. “How do you know her?!” The mane six All asked, even Fluttershy. “Yeah, what they said how do you know me?!” Sunset repeated. “I know everything my dears, but it seems you don’t know me. Fluttershy would you be a dear and tell her about our history.” Discord said. So the next hour was used to explain Discord's escape and his reformation. Sunset kept her mouth shut out of fear. “And then I had him say ‘Friendship is magic’.” Fluttershy said with a chuckle. “Understand?” Discord asked. Sunset just nodded. She did but, this was a weird tale. “Okay but how did you two end up dating?” Rainbow asked Fluttershy. “Oh he was such a sweetheart, he asked me to dinner a week after he was reformed. After dinner he told me how he felt and I returned those feelings.” Fluttershy responded. “Okay, but if you ever hurt her so help me!” Rainbow threatened. “Wouldn’t dream of it.” Discord replied. He then gained a devious smirk. “Well I would love to stay but I have to get back to our daughter.” Discord stated and then disappeared. Fluttershy just blushed heavily. After hearing this sentence Rarity fainted from shock. All the other mares’ jaws dropped. Rainbow just got angry. “What did he do to you shy?! I swear I will kill him for taking advantage of you!” Rainbow said in anger. “Oh no! He didn’t take…advantage….. of me. She wasn’t even born of natural means. We haven’t even…. eep.” Fluttershy stated while developing a crimson blush. “Whatever do you mean darling?” Rarity asked, recovering from feinting. “Well he took a cotton candy cloud, balled it up, and out came our little Screwball.” Fluttershy explained. “Be that as it may, you two aren’t even married yet! You shouldn’t have a child yet!” Rarity stated. “Oh well, it was my idea.” Fluttershy added. Sunset raised her hoof and gained everypony else’s attention. “I vote we stop talking about this and keep on the original topic. This is too weird.” Sunset stated. “Deal.” Everypony else said. “So does anypony ELSE have a relationship?” Rarity asked. “How about you Rarity?” Twilight asked with a sly grin. Rarity immediately became flustered. “Why w-whatever do you mean darling?” Rarity asked. “Oooo yes Rarity tell them.” Sunset added with a grin to match Twilight’s. “Oooooooo who's the stallion Rarity? Oh can I throw a party for you two?” Pinkie asked. “Yeah Rares, who are you seeing?” Rainbow asked. “Well since I have no way out of this now.” Rarity then glared at Twilight and Sunset. “His name is Thunderlane.” “Oh I know him, yeah he’s cool.” Rainbow stated. “Congrats Rarity!” Applejack exclaimed. “Yay I get to throw a ‘Rarity and Thunderlane are dating’ party!” Pinkie said with joy. “So is that all the relationships for tonight?” Twilight asked. “Nope!” Rainbow said. “Who is the lucky stallion?” Twilight asked. “Yay more parties!” Said Pinkie. “Not a stallion.” Rainbow said with a smirk. “Do you like Spike too darling?” Rarity asked. At this Sunset tensed up. “Nope.” Rainbow replied with a smirk. Sunset calmed back down after this. “Who is he?” Asked Pinkie. “SHE is Applejack.” Rainbow responded putting a wing around Applejack. “Congratulations.” Said everypony minus an obvious two. “How long?” Asked Twilight. “Two months.” Replied Applejack. “And thus ends yet another girl talk.” Rarity stated. “Finally. Hopefully we can do something more fun now. Like a movie or.” But Sunset thoughts were caught short by Twilight. “Why don't we play some Truth or Dare?” Twilight asked. “Or that.” Sunset thought. “Sounds fun.” Said Rainbow. “Good so you’ll go first! Truth or Dare?” Twilight responded. “Dare duh.” “I dare you to let Rarity give you a makeover later.” Twilight responded. Rainbow gulped and Rarity squeed. “Fine, Pinkie Truth or Dare?” “Hmm maybe this will be fun.” Sunset thought. “Dare silly.” Pinkie replied. “I dare you not to say Party for the rest of the night.” Rainbow replied with a smirk. “Oooo good one Dashie. Sunset Truth or Dare.” Pinkie said. “Oh joy my turn.” “Umm, dare.” She replied “I dare you to go upstairs and give Spike a big ol’ smooch on the cheek.” Pinkie replied. There was a collective “Ooooooo” from everypony. Sunset blushed heavily. “F-Fine.” Sunset stated. She got up walked upstairs to Spike's room. When she walked in she saw him asleep in his basket. “Good, that’ll make this easier.” She walked up to his sleeping form. “Well, it’s now or never.” She closed her eyes and started leaning forward. Little did she know he had woken up. He saw her and was confused. “Sunset what are you?” But he was cut off. He had turned his head just enough while talking, so in a moment, their lips connected. > CH.7 Apology > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset felt his lips and started to mentally freak out. “Oh no! This wasn’t supposed to happen! It was supposed to be on the cheek, oh please let him at least be asleep.” Without pulling back she opened her eyes to see if he was awake. What she saw mortified her. He was awake and he was staring at her in shock. Sunset immediately pulled back and began to stammer. Nothing she was attempting to say was able to be understood. “W-What w-w-was that?!” Spike asked in pure shock. “I-I-I-I.” Sunset stammered. She still could not form a coherent sentence. So she did the first thing that came to mind, telelport. So she did just that and teleported out of the room. Spike just layed there in shock. He had no clue what was going on. Why had she kissed him? Spike had started hyperventilating sometime during the little event. He was starting to feel a little lightheaded. He was mentally freaked out but was doing a pretty good job at not showing it. “Where did she go anyway?” The mane six were still playing Truth or Dare in the main room. They had decided to have Twilight go after Sunset. She was in the middle of her dare. Which was to arrange the books to be in no order at all. While this she was doing so, a bright flash lit up the room. Everypony shielded their eyes from the bright light. The light soon faded and in it’s wake was Sunset. Everypony turned to look at her. They all noticed she was on the verge of both tears and a panic attack. “Darling, what’s wrong?” Rarity asked. “Yeah you look like you’re going to have a panic attack.” Twilight added. Sunset was breathing heavily and was having a very hard time getting it under control. She also seemed ready to burst out in tears at any moment. “I-I went up s-stairs to k-k-kiss S-Spike and he w-w-woke up.” Sunset explained. “Well did you tell him why you were up there, ah mean you didn’t get to kiss him did ya?” Applejack asked. “I-I did k-kiss him.” Sunset replied, tears forming in her eyes. “Oooh, well I mean it could have went worse.” Rainbow commented. “It did, he t-turned and I k-kissed him on the lips and now he hates me!” Sunset answered finally letting the tears flow. “So it did go worse.” Rainbow replied. Everypony had then went to go comfort Sunset. Twilight laid down beside her and draped a wing around her. “Hey, it’s okay. I’m sure he doesn't hate you.” Twilight said reassuringly. “W-W-Why w-w-wouldn’t he?” Sunset asked between sobs. “Oh this is all my fault, I feel terrible. I’m so sorry Sunny.” Pinkie apologized, her hair losing some of it’s color and curl. “I-It’s not your fault Pinkie.” Sunset said. After some time Sunset was beginning to calm down. She had stopped crying, but was still hugging her new friends for dear life. She finally was able to speak without stammering. Sunset decided it was time to stand up. “Thank you for making me feel better.” Sunset said. “Hey what are friends for?” Twilight replied. Sunset had a warm feeling in her chest, she had friends who cared about her. It was a really good feeling. “Hey, Sunset?” Twilight asked. “Yeah?” Sunset replied. “Tomorrow, I’ll tell Spike why what happened, happened.” Twilight said. “Thank you.” Sunset replied. Sunset let go of everypony. She felt really tired. She just wanted to go to sleep. “Hey girls, I’m going to bed. I’m just really tired.” Sunset said. “Goodnight.” They all responded. Sunset began to walk up to her room. Sleep, sleep would help and make everything better. She opened her door and did not believe what, or rather who, was on her bed. She saw Spike on her bed, asleep. But she also saw that he was holding something, a piece of paper. She walked over to the bedside and levitated the paper in front of her. She began to read it. “Hey Sunset, I’m really sorry for freaking out on you. I’m sure you had some sort of reason for  kissing me. I was going to apologize to you earlier but, when I went down to do so I saw you were crying. I’m really sorry.” Sunset set the note at her bedside stand. She was very happy and relieved. He didn’t hate her. She was also very tired and decided to think about it in the morning. She climbed onto the bed and curled up next to Spike. She once again felt his arm wrap around her. she smiled and drifted off to sleep. She opened her eyes and saw darkness. There was nothing. She stood up to look around. When she did so there was a blinding light. She covered her face from the light, but it disappeared just as fast as it came. What she now saw was a certain Draconequus and the lunar princess. “Discord and Princess Luna?” Sunset asked. “Indeed.” Luna replied. “I understand why you are here, but why Discord?” Sunset asked. “Because I was bored and messing around in ponies heads is fun.” Discord replied with a chuckle. Sunset took a cautionary step back. “Oh don’t worry I won't drive you insane, yet.” Discord added. “We are here to ask you of your progress.” Luna said. “What do you mean?” Sunset asked. “We mean, how art thee doing in your endeavor in making friends and proving you are sorry for your actions.” Luna replied. “Well she is friends with the elements, or it seemed. She was at their slumber party.” Discord said. “I can answer for myself, thank you.” Sunset snapped at Discord. “Ooo, kitty got claws. Very well I will just go have my fun elsewhere.” Discord replied. Discord at that, snapped his fingers and was gone. “To answer your question princess, Twilight’s friends seem to have accepted me as their friend.” Sunset answered. “This is good child.” Luna replied “We shall take our leave, it seems that the day approaches quickly.” Luna said. As soon as Luna disappeared, the dream ended. She woke up, but once again decided to just lay in bed. She could still feel Spike. This brought a smile to her face. She cracked open an eye  to see. She saw Spike hugging her, still fast asleep. “You know, that’s two nights in a row. Out of the two days you have been here. Sunset you still got it.” She laughed in the inside at her joke. You know, things were going well. This might just end up being the best year of her life. > CH.8 Dresses and Dreams > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset was just laying there, happy. She was happy. No worries, only comfort. Well comfort and Spike. However she was much more happy that Spike was beside her, even if he didn’t know. “Wow that sounded kinda creepy.” However her bliss was cut short when she heard the door open. She did not want to get up. She was comfortable and no pony was going to take that from her. “Awwwwww.” Twilight exclaimed. “Shut up.” Sunset murmured. “Well somepony woke up on the wrong side of the bed.” Twilight said. “No, you're just going to make me get up and I’m a happy lazy pony.” Sunset said with sleep in her voice. “Well I hate to break it to you, but we have plans today so you gotta get up missy.” Twilight said in mock anger. “No, five more minutes!” Sunset said moving a pillow over her head. “Nope, you’re getting up now.” Twilight said. Twilight then levitated Sunset out of the bed, out from under the covers. This effectively brought Spike with her as he still had his arms around the light yellow mare. Sunset just opened her eyes and groaned when she was set on the ground. Spike had been moved to laying on her back, still miraculously sleeping. “Uh, fine I’m up. What was so important you had to wake me up?” Sunset exclaimed with a slight tone of anger. “We have to go and get you a dress made for the party tonight since the princesses are coming.” Twilight answered. “Fine, you’re buying us doughnuts for breakfast though.” Sunset responded. “Why am I buying you doughnuts?” Twilight asked. “Because I said so and I’m hungry.” Sunset responded. “Fine, but I don’t want to hear another word of complaint for the rest of the day.” Twilight responded. “Yes, mother.” Sunset said sarcastically. Sunset and Twilight walked downstairs to begin their trek to the boutique. Sunset saw a clock she had not seen before, she decided to see what time it was. It was ten in the morning, a bit later than she was used to. Though she didn’t have to go to school while in Equestria. She thought about how much she knew about the human world. No pony here knew anything about it, she could write a book. Yeah that was a good idea, make some bits. Along the way to Rarity’s they stopped at Sugarcube Corner for sweet, delicious doughnuts. She looked at the options, so many sweet, heart stopping options. Pinkie Pie was at the counter. “Oh great, doughnuts and a headache, a perfect morning.” “Hey you two! What are you two here for?” Pinkie asked with her usual enthusiasm. “Oh and are you feeling better today Sunny? I’m really sorry for daring you to....you know.” Pinkie added in a sadder tone. “It’s okay Pinkie, we’re just here for doughnuts, Twilight's treat.” Sunset said in an upbeat tone. “Oooo I love doughnuts, well not as much as cupcakes but still. What kind of doughnuts do you want, oh and does Spike want a ruby doughnut?” “Spike?” Sunset asked. She looked at her back and noticed that he was still sleeping on her back. She let out a sigh of happiness. “Yeah.” Sunset said. “I would like a plain doughnut please.” Twilight asked. “Okay, Sunny what do you want.” Pinkie asked. “Hmmm, I would like a jelly filled doughnut with chocolate frosting and sprinkles.” Sunset replied. Twilight gave her an odd look. “What? I’m in the mood for a sugar coma.”  Sunset said. Twilight just shook her head and put the bits on the counter. Pinkie rushed into the kitchen and came back thirty minutes later with their order. “Thanks Pinkie.” Twilight said taking her doughnut with her magic. “Yeah thanks!” Sunset said biting into her coma inducing doughnut. “Have a good day you two, and Spike when he wakes up!” Pinkie said. “Bye Pinkie.” Twilight said as they walked out. The two of them plus a still sleeping Spike. Sunset was enjoying her doughnut immensely. About five minutes later Spike decided to rejoin the world of the living. “Uh, what time is it?” Spike asked opening his eyes. “And why am I on Sunset’s back?” Spike added. “Because I was so nice to carry you when we left, and I got you a ruby doughnut which I paid for.” Sunset replied. “Wow really! Thanks Sunset!” Spike said taking a bite out of his doughnut like Scruff Mcgruff took a bite out of crime. “Hey I payed for the doughnuts!” Twilight said with agitation. “Yeah sure, Sunset already got me ice cream so I think it’s more likely she bought it.” Spike said still eating his gemmed treat. Sunset gained a big grin on her face while Twilight, just sighed in agitation. Spike took no time finishing the doughnut. “Thanks Sunset.” Spike said. “You are very welcome.” Sunset replied. Twilight just let out another sigh and began counting to ten. “Hey, uh Sunset?” Spike said with trepidation in his voice. “Yes, Spike?” Sunset asked. “I just wanted to apologize for last night, I over reacted. I’m really sorry.” Spike apologized. Sunset got a small blush at recalling the events of the night prior. “It’s okay, it was more my fault anyway.” Sunset responded. “Hey, why did you.. kiss .. me anyway?” Spike asked. Sunset’s blush intensified as he said that. She looked to Twilight for some help on this as she was a bit nervous at answering the question. “Yeah Sunset, why did you kiss Spike?” Twilight asked with a childish and sarcastic tone. Sunset mouthed the words “I’m going to kill you” too Twilight. “Well, I got dared to by Pinkie.” Sunset said with trepidation. “Why would she dare you to do that?” Spike wondered aloud. “Yeah Sunset, why would she do that?” Twilight said in the same childish and sarcastic tone. “Death is too good for her, she will suffer first. Ten years in the room with the screaming robots. Yes that works.” “Um..well….she was being Pinkie?” Sunset said, more a question than a statement. “I guess that makes sense.” Spike said. Sunset sighed in relief. Twilight however just started giggling. Sunset gave a glare at Twilight. The rest of the walk was in silence. It didn't take long for the trio to make it to Rarity’s. Spike immediately got a dreamy look in his eyes as they walked in the boutique. “Hello darlings, Sunset I take it you're here to have your dress made?” Rarity asked. “Yes, I was more forced to be here.” Sunset said under her breath. “Shall we start?” Rarity asked. “Sure, why not.” Sunset replied. “Wonderful, Spikey would you be a darling and help me?” Rarity asked. “Sure Rarity.” Spike said in a dream like tone. As soon as this happened Sunset gained a scowl. They started soon after. “That-that HARLOT is just using him! He is too nice to even see this! I can’t believe her.” She was internally fuming but was doing fairly well at hiding it. The only one why noticed was Twilight. Twilight had no idea why she was angry but she decided to ask her later. The dressmaking took about three hours. Three long, boring hours. But they were done. The end product was a beautiful long orange and yellow dress. “Aaaand done!” Rarity said adding the final touch. “Wow Sunset it looks amazing.” Spike commented. Rarity gave Sunset a sly smirk but in response Sunset stuck out her tongue. “It does look wonderful Rarity, how much do I owe you?” Twilight asked. “Nothing at all darling. It is a gift for a friend.” Rarity responded. “Thanks Rarity.” Sunset said. “Think nothing of it darling.” Rarity replied. The trio gave their farewells and took their leave. The went back home. When they got back Sunset saw it was one thirty in the afternoon. Still three hours and a half until the party. She quickly went upstairs to put the dress away. While she was there she decided to take a nap. So she did. Just as she got on the bed there was a knock at the door. So she got back up and opened it. She was greeted by the sight of a small purple dragon she knew as Spike. “Oh, hey Spike. Did you need something?” Sunset asked. “Well I-I wanted to talk to you about last night.” Spike said. “Oh no, he knows I lied.” “W-What about l-last night?” Sunset asked. “Well when you…. kissed … me.” Spike said. “Spike I am really really…” Sunset but was cut off by Spike. “I wanted to say I feel the same way about you.” Spike said. Sunset gained a huge blush. He jaw hung slack and her eyes were wide open. She couldn’t believe it, it was like her dream come true. “But what about Rarity?” Sunset asked. “You are a million times better than her.” Spike said “And I wanted to ask if you would be my special somepony?” Spike added. Sunset began bouncing around the room saying “YES YES YES YES” like Twilight had when she got her cutie mark. She soon regain her composure. “Sorry, as I was saying, I would love nothing more than to be your special somepony.” Sunset said with joy in her voice. “Well can I give my special somepony a kiss?” Spike asked. Sunset didn’t bother answering with words. She just began to lean in toward the dragon of her affection. Just as their lips were about to meet, she heard a knock and she awoke. It had just been a dream. > Ch.9 Hearts Broken and Made > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “It was just a dream. It was just a dream!? Why must I be taunted like this!?” Sunset yelled in her mind. After a moment she heard the knocking again. Sunset, at this point, didn’t care a whole lot. But she decided to get up and open the door anyway. When she opened the door she saw… Spike. “Oh my Celestia, please let the dream come true!” Sunset hoped. “Hey Spike.” Sunset said. “Hey Sunset, can I talk to you?” Spike asked. “Yeah what do you need?” Sunset asked gaining a huge grin. “Well it kinda has to do with last night.” Spike said tentatively. “Yes!Yes!Yes! It’s going to happen, oh please happen!” Sunset thought. Sunset gained a smile that was actually hurting because of how big it was. She was so close to her dream. “Yes, what about last night?” Sunset asked in anticipation. “Well i-it’s about w-when you… kissed … me.” Spike replied nervously. “Yes?” Sunset said in growing anticipation. “W-Well..” Spike started. “Yes?” Sunset asked again. “Um…. why did you, for real this time. I could tell you lied before.” Spike replied. Sunset heart sank like the titanic. That was not what she was expecting or by any means hoping for. She did her best to contain her disappointment but it easily showed. Spike chose not to say anything as he really didn’t know what to say anyway. “W-Well…..um” Sunset started. “Yeah?” Spike said. “I… uh” Sunset stammered. She looked around the room for some way to get out of having to answer. Spike was more observant than she had thought. Sunset saw the clock and noticed the time was for fifty in the afternoon. Just before the party, an excuse! “Oh wow, look at the time it’s time to go.”  Sunset replied. “But you didn’t..” Spike started. “Skedaddle now so I can change.” Sunset said as she levitated him out of the room. After he was gone she audibly sighed in relief. She was extremely sad that it had not turned out to be just as her dream. But at least she was grateful she avoided that situation. She decided to just get into her wonderful dress and get ready to leave. After she was in her dress she went downstairs to leave with her group. When she got downstairs she saw Twilight in her gala dress. Sunset thought it looked good on her. “Hey Sunset.” Twilight said walking to the door. “Ready to go?” Twilight added. “Yeah let’s get going.” Sunset replied. Just before they left Spike came running up to the two from basement. “Hey! wait for me!” Spike said. “Oops, sorry.” The mares said in unison. “It’s okay. Hey can I get a ride?” Spike asked. Twilight gained a childish grin that she had come to wear a lot. “My back kinda hurts, but I’m sure Sunset wouldn’t mind.” Twilight said. Sunset blushed and glared at Twilight, who in response, stuck out her tongue. “Really Sunset?” Spike said. “Yeah, sure.” Sunset responded. Spike then clambered onto Sunset’s back for the ride to Sugarcube corner. The walk was short, quiet and uneventful. It took them a total of five minutes. When they walked in they were greeted by confetti being shot in their faces by Pinkie’s party cannon. “AAAH” Sunset screamed and fell over, effectively taking Spike with her. “Oops, sorry guys.” Pinkie said. “It’s fine.” Spike said getting up. “Yeah, what he said.” Sunset said also getting up. After the two got up they noticed the amount of ponies that were at the party. Most of the town was present. Sunset’s jaw dropped at the amount of ponies her. She couldn’t believe Pinkie could get this many ponies into one room! “Wow there are a lot of ponies here.” Sunset said in awe. “Of course, everypony loves a Pinkie party!” Pinkie Pie said then giggled. “Oh look cupcakes! See you guys later.” Spike said already wandered off. “Wow took him less than a minute to leave us for food, a new record.” Twilight said. “Yeah, so are the Princesses here yet?” Sunset said looking around. “No, not yet but they should be here soon.” Pinkie answered. “Ooo and you look really good Sunny.” Pinkie said while bouncing off. Sunset took another moment to look around. It really looked like a really good party. All for her, it made her feel good. “So what do you think so far?” Twilight asked Sunset. “It’s wonderful.” Sunset replied with joy. “That’s wonderful.” Twilight replied smiling. At that moment Rarity chose to make her entrance to the party. She wore a light blue dress that looked like her dress from the fall formal. She also walked in with a black pegasus. Oh no. “Rarity is here!” Rarity exclaimed for seemingly no reason. “And Thunderlane too!” The black pegasus added putting a wing around Rarity. “Oh no.” Both Twilight and Sunset said together. “Twilight! Sunset! Come over and meet my coltfriend, Thunderlane!” Rarity said with enthusiasm. The two mares walked over to meet Rarity and her date. The night was going to end badly, Sunset could tell. “Twilight, Sunset this is Thunderlane.” Rarity said. “Pleased to meet you.” Thunderlane said extending a hoof. “Nice to meet you too.” Twilight said shaking his hoof with a fake smile. “Yeah nice.” Sunset said under her breath as she shook his hoof. “Thunderlane this is Twilight and Sunset.” Rarity added. “Well It’s was nice meeting you two.” Thunderlane said. “Yes, shall we go dance?” Rarity asked Thunderlane. “Of course milady.” Thunderlane said taking her hoof. The two then walked off to go dance. “Okay so we gotta get Spike out of here.” Sunset said. “Yeah, I do not want to see him have an emotional breakdown in front of everypony.” Twilight added. “Alright I’ll go get him and take him home, you stay here and if anyone asks, I just forgot something at home.” Sunset said. “Deal, he should be by the food, which is just by the door.” Twilight said. “Okay, thanks.” Sunset said. Sunset started walking towards the door. She was just about to reach Spike when the princesses decided to show up. The two walked in and immediately saw Sunset. “Sunset Shimmer, I am happy to see you here.” Celestia said. “Um yeah, you too.” Sunset replied sort of impatiently. “Well I suppose it would be best to get the ‘questioning’ done right away. Luna, go have fun.” Celestia said. “The fun shall be doubled!” Luna said as she walked into the cheering crowd. I really hope this is quick. Oh please don’t let Spike see Rarity “So Sunset, how have things been?” Celestia asked. “Um, good, bad and awkward.” Sunset replied impatiently. “That is...good?” Celestia replied. “Yeah, sure.” Sunset replied. “Is there something wrong Sunset?” Celestia asked. “Um, yeah. Could we hurry this up a bit?” Sunset replied. “Of course.” Celestia replied with a sense of regality. “Have you made any friend yet?” Celestia asked. “Yes, all of Twilight’s friends and Spike.” Sunset replied. “How have..” Celestia started but was cut off by somepony or somedragon, yelling. “WHAT?!” Spike yelled from the other room. “Oh no!” Sunset yelled and ran off. Sunset thought she heard Celestia say for her to come back but she failed to care. When she got outside she saw what she feared was happening. Spike stood in front of Rarity and Thunderlane with an expression of shock and sadness. He looked on the verge of tears. In fact he began to cry and ran out of the building. Sunset stood there, slack jawed. The room was silent. “What was that about?” Rarity asked. “You..you...you insensitive, heartless bitch!” Sunset yelled at Rarity. Rarity went slack jawed at Sunset words. “How da..” Rarity started. “No! How dare you! Look what you did!” Sunset yelled. Rarity just stood there, utterly shocked by the turn of events. Celestia came out of the kitchen. “Sunset Shimmer! This is not the way to treat friends! You will come here this instant to finish my questions!” Celestia said in a firm, angry voice. “No, i’m going to go find Spike!” Sunset said running of to find Spike. It wa now Celestia’s turn to become slack jawed. No-one had ever talked back to her. Twilight walked up to the princess. “How dare she!” Celestia said. “Princess, I assure you she had a very good reason for doing what she did.” Twilight said to her former teacher. “I would very much like to hear these reasons Twilight.” Celestia replied. Sunset was running to where she knew Spike would be. She knew he would go home so she went there. She ran faster than she ever had, regardless of her dress. When she got to the library she saw the door open. Sunset walked up the stairs and saw and saw that her door was open. She looked inside and saw Spike sitting on the bed crying. Sunset walked up to him and lied beside him. She put an arm around him for comfort. Spike began to cry into her coat while he hugged her. Sunset whispered sweet words like “It’s going to be alright” as he wept. After a bit Spike began to calm down, enough to talk. “W-W-Why?” Spike asked. “I don’t know, she made a big mistake though.” Sunset answered in a sweet tone. “W-What d-do y-y-you mean?” Spike asked. “She made a mistake not picking you, anypony would me more than lucky to have you.” Sunset said, developing a blush. “N-No, i-i’m just s-some worthless d-dragon, nopony would w-want to d-date me.” Spike said back. “Spike! That’s not true in the slightest! You are the most amazing dragon or pony i have ever met. You are extremely nice and talented. You are the farthest thing from worthless.” Sunset said, words like honey. “T-Thanks, but nopony w-would ever want to d-date me.” Spike said still sad. “I know for a fact that is a lie. I know a certain mare who would love nothing more than to be with you.” Sunset said in comfort. “W-Who?” Spike asked and looked up to her. Sunset felt extremely nervous now. “This is it, now or never.” Sunset took a big breath. She then leaned in and kissed Spike. What made it even better, he kissed back. > CH.10 A New Relationship > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As the kiss took place there was close to one hundred things going through Sunset’s mind. “What? He’s kissing back? I must be dreaming again... No, I’m not. Does he like me?” Sunset thought. She had no clue why he was but she was not going to complain, no she was going to enjoy every second of it. Sunset decided to try how far her luck was going to go, so during their kiss she prodded his lips with her tongue.  To her utter shock, he opened his mouth. “Holy mother of Celestia!” Was the most dominant thought at that moment. But this thought did not stop her from continuing. Their kiss deepened and Sunset had moved on hoof to the back of his neck. It lasted for, to them, seemed like hours. Eventually they did need to come up for air. Well unless they wanted to die kissing. To Sunset that seemed like the best way to go. When they separated they just stared into each other’s eyes in silence. Eventually Sunset broke the silence that was hanging over them with the obvious question. “Spike, why did you?” Sunset asked in a hushed tone. “Well...I kinda like you.” Spike said nervously, developing a crimson blush. “But, what about Rarity? I thought you liked her?” Sunset questioned. “Well, ever since I moved to Ponyville I did. But as time went on and she never seemed to return the feelings, mine started to go. When you came here, you seemed to really like being around me. You were really nice to me. I guess I got the feelings I had lost from Rarity for you.” Spike answered. To Sunset this made pretty good sense except one thing. “Well, what about what happened at the party?” Sunset asked. “Yeah, heh heh.” Spike chuckled nervously. “Well, I still liked her enough to where it still hurt. Also it made me realize how much time I wasted on getting her to like me. I also realized that she may have been using my feelings for her benefit but I’m not sure on that one.” Spike answered. “Oh...” was all Sunset could reply with. “Yeah.” Spike said back. The two sat in silence for a short while, not knowing what to say. The two both lost in their own thoughts. Sunset was, once again, the one to break the silence. “So, Spike?” Sunset started. “Yeah Sunset?” Spike said looking into her eyes. “Would you like to be my special somepony, or somedragon?” Sunset asked nervously. “Only if you get to my special somepony.” Spike said in a joking tone. “Deal.” Sunset replied. After the deal was done, Sunset began to lean in and close her eyes. Spike happily obliged. The two sat there, just kissing for quite some time. They would have gone longer if a certain purple alicorn hadn’t walked in. The two didn’t notice Twilight until she had made a coughing noise to gain their attention. The two separated and blushed heavily as they looked to Twilight. “Oh, I am so happy for you two!” Twilight said and began to hug the two. “Uh... thanks Twi.” Spike said. Sunset was still a little too flustered at being caught in the middle of making out with Spike. That’s not to say that she regretted it, no she was happy it happened. But then she remembered something very important. “Hey Twilight, not to ruin the moment or anything but… how did Celestia react when I yelled at her?” Sunset asked sheepishly. The hug was disengaged and Spike went to stand beside Sunset. “Oh well, she wasn’t happy.” Twilight replied. “Wait, you yelled at Princess Celestia?” Spike asked. “Yeah well, when you ran off she wanted me to stay. I was already mad so I yelled at her and went after you.” Spike blushed when he remembered at how foalish he was. But he also rationalized it brought him and Sunset together so if he had to do it again, he would. “So, how unhappy… are we talking?” Sunset asked nervously. “I had to talk her out of either banishing you to the moon or to the human world. Don’t worry, after I told her why you did what you did she calmed down and was okay with it. But she does want to finish your questions.” Twilight answered. “Well at least everything turned out as good as possible. Oh wait, how’s Rarity? I really told her off.” Sunset said. “Oh well, she kinda stood shocked for a good five minutes. She’s better now, but you should apologize.” Twilight replied. “What did you say to Rarity?” Spike inquired. “Oh, just a few choice words that befit her at the moment. I do kinda feel bad about it... kinda.” Sunset answered. “Well, let’s all get going back to the party.” Twilight said. The couple nodded in agreement. Spike climbed onto Sunset’s back. Once he was on he wrapped his arms around her neck like a hug. This made Sunset feel warm on the inside. The walk back was spent telling Twilight what had happened when they were alone, except for a few details. Twilight seemed happy that the two of them were together.  “You know it’s weird, I have been here like two or three days and yet it has been the best time of my life. I even have my own special somepony… or somedragon. I am going to be a lot better to him than I was to Flash.” All in all, Sunset was happy, very happy. They soon arrived at the party for the second time. When they entered the building they were greeted by everypony. Then Sunset saw Rarity, she walked up to with Spike still on her back. “Hey Rarity.” Sunset said sheepishly. “Hello Sunset.” Rarity said, her voice void of emotion. “I just wanted to say I’m sorry. I got mad and over-reacted.” Sunset said. “It’s quite alright dear, I forgive you, and from the looks of it you have yourself a special somedragon.” Rarity said grinning. Sunset blushed at the comment as did Spike, but neither made a move to get away from each other. “It is good to see you return Sunset Shimmer.” Said Celestia walking up to the couple. “And I am glad to see you’re feeling better Spike.” Celestia added. “Thanks.” Spike said “Sorry for yelling at you Princess.” Sunset apologized. “It is alright, I understand why you did it. But if we could get back to my questions.” Celestia replied. “Of course. Spike why don’t you go have fun, I’ll be back in a little while.” Sunset said. “Okay.” Spike said, giving her a kiss on the cheek and then running off to have fun. “I see you two are together.”  Celestia said with a smirk. “Yeah.” Sunset said in a dream like tone. “Well, follow me and we can continue.” Celestia said The rest of the night went wonderfully. After the questions Sunset and Spike spent the party together. The couple was having a bunch of fun when a certain DJ spoke up. “Alright Ponyville, it’s time to slooow things down for you couples out there.” Spoke the DJ pony. After she said so, the music turned to a slower pace for couples to dance to. Spike and Sunset wasted no time to get together to dance. They were really enjoying the intimacy of the moment. They got lost in each other’s embrace as they danced the night away. They even had a few kisses here and there. But all good things must come to an end. The party eventually ended and the trio of Twilight, Spike and Sunset headed home. They talked on the way back saying how they really enjoyed the party. When they got home they all went to their own beds, except Spike. He was now going to be sleeping in Sunset’s bed with her. Sunset very much liked the idea. The two climbed onto their bed. They said their goodnights and fell asleep in each other’s embrace. > CH.11 Showers > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reader warning: This is the “sauciest” chapter yet. It doesn't actually contain such activities but some very slight description of the lead up. Just letting you know. That night, Sunset was graced with very pleasant dreams. All of them involving her, Spike and some sort of a date. She enjoyed every one of them. Her favorite of them was Spike and her had gone to Canterlot for a very nice lunch and then went for a walk around town, ending with the two of them watching the Sunset in a field. When she woke up she immediately decided that was what the two of them were doing today. Though she didn’t want to get up yet. She could feel Spike still holding her from the previous night. She wrapped her hooves around him and pulled him closer. She felt him snuggle into her, she smiled at this. Sunset thought back to everything that had happened to her since she had come back to Equestria. Everything was going so much better than she could ever have hoped. Not only was she being forgiven, but she now was dating the most wonderful dragon, or pony for that matter. She was happier than she had ever been. Soon enough she felt Spike start to stir. Sunset opened her eyes and was met with his, as he looked up to her, a tired but happy look on the drake’s face. “Mmmm… good morning Sunset.” Spike said hugging her tighter. “Morning Spike.” Sunset said giving him a kiss on the forehead. “So, do you have anything you want to do today? It’s my day off from chores.” Spike asked. “Yeah, now that mention it, I want to take you out to lunch today.” Sunset replied. Spike blushed at hearing his marefriend practically asking him on a date. “Aww, I would love to. Where to?” Spike inquired. “Hmmm… I’m not sure, but somewhere in Canterlot.” Sunset replied. “Sounds nice.” Spike said getting out of bed. “I’m going to take a shower, after that you can and then we can get ready to leave.” Spike said. “Wait, are you saying I need a shower? Are you saying I smell?” Sunset said in mock anger. “Um...no...I just.” Spike stuttered. “I’m joking Spike.” Sunset replied. Spike just laughed and left the room, a few moments later she could hear the knobs turning for the shower to start. Sunset wondered what time it was and looked to the clock in her room. She saw it was ten in the morning. She had a bad habit of sleeping in. Sunset began to go downstairs and look for Twilight. When she got downstairs she saw Twilight reading a book. “Morning Twilight.”  Sunset said. “Hey.” Twilight said almost mechanically. “How did you sleep?” Sunset asked. “Yeah… mhm...” Twilight replied, obviously not paying attention. “Help Twilight, the library is on fire!” Sunset said in an attempt to get the book mare’s attention. “That’s nice.” Twilight responded. Instead of words this time, Sunset knocked over a bottle of ink, worked like a charm. “Huh… oh, good morning Sunset.” Twilight said. “Hehe, good morning bookworm.” Sunset replied. “So, how did you sleep last night?” Twilight asked. “Pretty good, I would say better than I ever have.” Sunset replied. “I wonder why.” Twilight said jokingly. At that moment Sunset thought of a really funny joke to pull on Twilight. She couldn’t pass up the chance. “Yeah, I was all tired after Spike and I were done.” Sunset said with a smirk and even used a small amount of magic to give her the telltale blush of ‘I just got laid.’ “Yeah...what what?!” Twilight yelled. “It was really exhausting. Spike was so much better than I could ever have guessed. We went at it four times before we started to get tired.” Sunset said holding back laughter. “W-W-What...You and Spike…..four times…” Twilight said, looking like she was going to faint. At that, Sunset burst out in laughter, rolling on the floor. When Sunset did this Twilight knew she was just the butt-end of a joke. “T-That was not funny!” Twilight said still flustered. “I beg to differ.” Sunset said finally calming down. The two went on to talk about different subjects. Along the way Sunset helped Twilight re-shelve a bit. Spike soon joined them and Sunset went up to shower. She turned on the water with her magic and put it to a pretty warm temperature. Sunset got in and began to enjoy the warm water, it felt immeasurably good. Spike was now helping Twilight put books away when he realized something. “Oh no, I forgot my gems in the bathroom! I hope Sunset didn’t get in yet.” Spike thought. He excused himself and went up to the bathroom. He listened but didn’t hear any water. “Okay, I’m in the clear.” Spike thought as he walked in. What he didn’t account for was she was in the shower but just hadn’t heard the water. He forgot the shower didn’t make any noise. Twilight had put a spell on it so it wouldn’t. The sound had annoyed her. Spike walked in and was met with the image of Sunset taking her shower. He felt the largest blush ever. While normally nopony wore clothes, mares did hide certain… parts with their tails. In the shower Sunset was doing no such thing and was completely exposed, giving Spike the ‘full show.’ Spike tried his best not to look but being a guy, couldn’t help it. He was thanking Celestia she hadn’t noticed him. Oh no, she was turning around. His body was frozen in fear. She turned around and looked right at him, and began to blush. What she didn’t do was shoo him out, oddly enough. “Umm, Spike?” Sunset asked. “Y-Yes?” Spike stammered. “Why are you in here… while I’m taking a shower?” Sunset asked calmly. “Umm...w-w-well...you see…” Spike started. Inside of Sunset’s head a voice was yelling “Make a move!” Sunset blushed harder at the thought but… oh, what the hay, he did walk in on her showering, he probably already saw her… her blush deepened. “Umm, S-Spike?” Sunset asked. “Y-Yes?” Spike replied. “Well, s-since your h-here and all, w-would you care to join me?” Sunset said with a sheepish grin. “I-I-I...” Spike started. A voice in his head began to say “Dude, say yes!” Spike decided to act on that voice. “S-Sure.” Spike replied nervously. Sunset gestured him over and simultaneously closed the door and cast a ‘sound-proof’ spell, just in case. Spike began to go toward his marefriend. He was soon in the shower with her. Neither Sunset nor Spike knew what to do, so Sunset acted on her voice again and went to kiss Spike. Spike leaned in to her and kissed her back. Sunset once again prodded his lips for entry, which was granted. Their kiss deepened and they were getting into it. Sunset began to move a hoof along the drake’s scales. Spike was doing the best he could to caress he given his short stature. Sunset enjoyed it nonetheless. They soon got even more into it, occasionally coming up for air, but going right back to it. Spike could feel a certain piece of anatomy grow. This did not go unnoticed by Sunset. But she wanted to take this ‘all the way.' “S-Spike?” Sunset asked pulling away. “Yeah?” Spike said looking into her eyes. “I was wondering i-if you wanted to go ‘all the way?’ Sunset asked nervously. Spike was taken aback by this but did, in no way object. He wanted this as well. “O-Only if you want to.” Spike replied. “Come here lover-boy.” Sunset said in a seductive tone. The two then proceeded to do some lewd activities in the shower that did not involve getting clean, but did involve spending a good three hours in the shower. > Ch.12 The Date > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset and Spike lay on the shower floor after their three hour session, in each other’s arms, panting heavily. At this moment, there were no worries, nothing but each other. Neither wanted to move but after their fun, they now needed the shower, which they proceeded to take together. They only took ten minutes after such. The lovers got out and began to dry each other off. “Wow Spike, that was...” Sunset started. “I know what you mean.” Spike replied. “I just, wow. You were amazing Spike.” Sunset said in a sweet tone. Spike blushed at the compliment. “Thanks, but I didn’t even know all the stuff you could do was possible.” Spike said. Sunset just laughed at the comment. “I love you Spike.” Sunset said. “I love you too Sunset.” Spike replied. “Hey Spike, could you brush my mane?” Sunset asked. “Of course.” Spike replied. Spike began to brush Sunset’s mane. He really did enjoy doing so. He couldn’t believe that what had just happened… happened. He was so happy he was with Sunset. But at that moment he thought of a certain thing that involved what the two just did. “Hey Sunset?” Spike asked. “Yeah Spike?” Sunset replied. “Well, I after what we just did…well, are you going to get pregnant?” Spike asked a bit nervously. “Nope, I cast a spell to prevent such, don’t worry I thought ahead.” Sunset replied. “Okay. Hey can a dragon and a pony even have a kid?” Spike asked. “Actually yes, I once read a book about interspecies relationships and dragons and ponies can have a child together.” Sunset replied. “Hmm, okay. What would it be anyway? A dragon or a pony?” Spike asked setting down the brush. “It would be a mix. Half pony half dragon.” Sunset replied. “Cool.” Spike said. Sunset giggled. She wasn’t sure she wanted to be a parent any time soon but one day. “Come on lover boy, I’m still taking you out.” Sunset said. “You really don’t have too.” Spike replied. “I know, I want to.” Sunset said hugging Spike. “I love you.” Spike said. “I love you too.” Sunset replied. The couple then began to walk downstairs. The thing neither of them had thought about was how to explain the while thing to Twilight. When the couple got downstairs they saw an irate Twilight. “Spike, What took you so long?! And Sunset why did you take a three hour shower?! I would expect that from Spike.” Twilight yelled. The couple just realized the issue. They had no excuse for taking three hours. Oops. “Spike, why are you wet?” Twilight asked noticing Spike was still a bit wet. “Umm...well...you see.” Spike started. “Yeah….ummm.” Sunset continued. It was in that moment that Twilight picked up on a few things. They both had the telltale blush of ‘I just got laid.’ They were both wet. Spike was upstairs for as long as Sunset was in the shower. Last but not least they were both still slightly panting. Twilight began to put the pieces together. She began to freak on the inside, while standing still as stone. “Uh oh, umm… Spike how about we leave now?” Sunset asked. “Yeah that seems like a plan.” Spike replied. “Let’s go!” Sunset said running out while grabbing her bits. The two began to run towards the train station. They could hear Twilight yelling in the distance. Sunset was pretty sure that all of Equestria did. The lovers soon got on the train and were on their way to Canterlot. “That was close.” Spike exclaimed. “You can say that again.” Sunset replied. The couple then shared a laugh. Today was turning out to be a very good day. At that moment Spike thought of a very important detail. “Hey Sunset?” Spike asked. “Yeah?” Sunset replied. “When is your birthday?” Spike asked. “It’s November 5th, why?” Sunset replied. “So I can celebrate when it comes.” Spike said. “Aww, you’re too sweet Spike.” Sunset replied. “Hey, when do I get to meet your parents?” Spike asked. Sunset instantly became very sad. She was actually on the verge of tears. “Hey, hey what’s wrong?” Spike asked putting his arms around his marefriend. Sunset couldn’t hold it any longer and began to cry. She held Spike as sobs wracked her body. Spike was doing all he could to comfort to her, whispering sweet nothings. She soon calmed down a bit, but was still crying. “What’s wrong? Is it something I said? If it’s my fault I’m really sorry.” Spike said to Sunset. “N-No i-i-it isn’t y-your f-fault.” Sunset choked out. “Then what’s wrong?” Spike asked. “M-M-My p-p-parents a-are dead!” Sunset and began to sob again. Spike immediately felt bad about what he had said. Of course he didn’t mean for her to cry but he felt terrible nonetheless. “I’m so so so sorry.” Spike said comforting his marefriend. “I-It’s o-o-okay.” Sunset replied. The two sat there in each other’s arms. Sunset eventually calmed down a little before they reached Canterlot. “I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to make you cry.” Spike said apologetically. “I know… I’m sorry I kinda broke down there.” Sunset replied. “It’s okay, I would have too.” Spike replied hugging the mare he loved. The two sat there in silence for the rest of the trip. They soon arrived at the Canterlot station. “Well we’re here.” Sunset exclaimed. “Yeah, hey where are we eating?” “Hmmm, how about there?” Sunset pointed at a restaurant. Spike looked at the restaurant she had pointed too. “La Sirene? Yeah I heard they are really good.” Spike replied. “Looks like that’s where we are going.” Sunset said happily as they walked into the restaurant. The couple took a window seat. They looked around to see the atmosphere of the place. It was a fancy restaurant but not too fancy. The ponies there had seemed like they were enjoying themselves. A waiter walked up to the table. “Bonjour madam, I am Silver Platter and I will be your waiter this evening. Can I get you a menu?” The waiter asked. “Yes I would very much like one.” Sunset replied politely. “Shall I get a kids menu for the young one?” The waiter asked. “Hey! I am an adult! Just because I’m short does not mean I am a kid.” Spike stated angrily. “My apologies, I will fetch you two menus.” The waiter said walking off. “Hey Spike?” Sunset asked. “Yeah?” Spike replied. “How old are you exactly? I never asked.” Sunset asked. “I turned eighteen two months ago today.” Spike replied. “Okay, thanks.” Sunset replied. The waiter then returned with the menus and promptly left to give the couple time to decide what to eat. The two began to look at the menus for a good meal. “Hmm what are you getting Sunset?” Spike asked looking up from his menu. “I’m thinking about the french onion soup. You?” Sunset replied. “I’m thinking the cheese omelette.” Spike replied. The waiter soon returned to collect their orders. They placed their orders and gave him their menus. “And what will you be having to drink this evening?” Silver Platter asked. “We will have a bottle of your finest wine.” Sunset answered joyfully. “Coming right out.” Silver replied. The couple chatted about various random things while waiting for their food. Their meals soon came out and they began to eat. They both agreed that the food was one of the best meals they had ever had. Sunset still argued Spike was better. The couple finished their wine, it too was very good. Soon the waiter came back out with the check and left once more. “I’ll pay.” Spike and Sunset said in unison. “No, I’ll get it. I’m the guy so I’ll pay.” Spike said. “No, I’ll pay. I asked you out.” Sunset replied.                                                                                                      The two went back and forth on who would pay until they reached the decision to split it. They left the restaurant. “That was amazing.” Spike said. “I agree, it was.” Sunset replied. “So, are we going home now?” Spike asked with a slight hint of fear. “Hmmm, not yet. I have one more thing I want to do.” Sunset replied. “What?” Spike asked. Instead of a response, Sunset teleported the two to the hills outside Ponyville. “Why did you bring us here?” Spike asked. “That.” Sunset replied, pointing at the sunset. Spike looked to what she was pointing at. What he saw was the most beautiful sunset ever. “Wow.” Was all Spike could say. “I know.” Sunset replied. The two say down and watched the sunset. Just as the sun went below the horizon and the stars came out, Sunset kissed Spike. The lovers made out under the stars. > CH.13 Four Months Later > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was now four months since Sunset and Spike had become a couple. The four months were relatively uneventful. Nothing life threatening happened, no mad gods running amok. It was peaceful. Spike and Sunset had been going on many dates and even had a few more ‘sessions.’ But now after four months of being with Spike, Sunset wanted just a bit more. She wanted to marry the drake. Sunset had no clue when, or if, he was going to propose. To be honest he was either too scared to or never thought of it. So Sunset decided on their four month anniversary, she would propose. She had it all planned out, she was going to take him to that one restaurant they had gone to on their first date. She would take him around the city, and at sunset she would ask him. Not exactly traditional but they were not a traditional couple. Sunset walked down from her room after been writing in her journal for a bit. When she got downstairs she was greeted with Spike and Twilight. “Hey Sunset.” Twilight said. “Hey Twilight.” Sunset replied. Sunset looked at the clock to see what time it was. She had made reservations for five in the afternoon, just in case. It was currently three. Twilight followed Sunset’s gaze and saw she was checking the time. “What, do you have plans soon or something? If so don’t be late.” Twilight said. “Yes actually I do have plans, and so does Spike.” Sunset replied. “I do?” Spike asked, taking a break from re-shelving. “Yes, I’m taking you to dinner tonight.” Sunset stated. “Aww really? Where are we going?” Spike asked walking up to is marefriend. “La Sirene, you know, where we went on our first date.” Sunset replied with a smile. “Oh yeah, I liked them. What’s the occasion?” Spike asked. Sunset realized that Spike didn’t remember what today was. That kinda hurt but she also knew all the stuff Twilight made him memorize. So she decided to try and make him feel kinda bad about it as a joke. “What you don’t remember?!” Sunset asked in mock anger. “N-No, um it’s not your birthday that was last month, umm… Kwanzaa?” Spike asked jokingly. Sunset had to resist bursting out laughter, she had to keep this up and then laugh. “What did I ask you four months ago today?!” Sunset asked in mock anger. Spike was searching his brain trying to find the answer. “Okay, I can’t let her know I really do remember, I need to do just like Twilight told me too, just act smooth.” “Oh my Celestia I am so so so so sorry!” Spike apologized. “Real smooth.” Sunset couldn’t hold it anymore and fell over in laughter. “Hey, what’s so funny?” Spike asked. “You, I’m not mad I was pretending.” Sunset replied getting up. “Real funny.” Spike grumbled. Sunset wiped a tear from her eye, that was funny. “Okay, well I’ll be back soon, I need to go pick up my new dress from Rarity.” Sunset said grabbing her bits. “Why did you have a new dress made anyway?” Twilight asked. “Oh, I just wanted to look good for tonight.” Sunset replied with a knowing smirk. “Oh okay, well don’t let us keep you.” Twilight said looking to Spike. “And you, are going to practice.” Twilight told Spike with a wink. “Practice what?” Sunset asked. “Ummm, the clarinet.” Spike lied. “Okay, be back soon.” Sunset said walking out the door. line Sunset walked into the boutique, she and Rarity had become good friends after the party. So Rarity was the only one Sunset had told about her asking Spike to marry her. Rarity insisted on making Sunset a dress for the night, and how could Sunset resist? “Sunset, darling you're here.” Rarity greeted. “I am, is my dress ready?” Sunset asked. “Of course darling. Here, why don’t you try it on?” Rarity suggested. Sunset followed Rarity to try on the dress. It was white with gold. It looked a lot like her first fall formal dress. To Sunset it looked absolutely beautiful. Rarity used her magic to put it on Sunset. “It looks just beautiful darling.” Rarity said. “It looks amazing Rarity. How can I ever thank you?” Sunset replied. “Just make sure I’m invited to the wedding.” Rarity said jokingly. “You were coming regardless, actually I know this is a bit premature but, I would like for you to be the maid of honor.” Sunset said. Rarity looked like she was going to faint. Then she got the biggest smile and started giggling. “Of course I will!” Rarity exclaimed. “I’m happy you want to be.” Sunset replied with a smile “Oh did you get the ring?” Rarity asked. “Yep.” Sunset said pulling out the ring. It was a very nice ring; the ring itself was made of gold. The gem she had chosen was Spike’s favorite, a fire ruby. On the inside of the ring was engraved “always and forever, my dragon.” It had cost a lot of bits but Rarity had given her a job at the boutique. “It looks marvelous darling.” Rarity swooned. “I know, I’m sure he will love it.” Sunset said with a smile. “I’m sure he will. I do hope that Thunderlane will propose soon.” Rarity stated. “Yeah, I hope mine goes just as good if not better than Fluttershy’s and Discord’s last month.” Sunset said. “I know. For the god of chaos, that was the best wedding I had ever been to.” Rarity stated. Sunset just giggled, it was a really nice wedding. Sunset took off the dress and said her goodbyes after checking the time. It was four; the two would have to leave immediately. Sunset hurried back to the library. When she walked in she saw Spike with some object, weird enough he was on one knee and holding it to Twilight. It looked like he was proposing but she knew better. As soon as they noticed her Spike hid the object in his scales. Any other time she would have been curious, but they needed to leave, the train takes about fifty minutes to get to Canterlot. Sunset put her Dress back on. “Wow Sunset, you look amazing.” Spike said staring at his marefriend. “Thanks, but we need to go.” Sunset said. “Okay bye Twilight.” Spike said. “Have fun.” Twilight replied adding a wink. Sunset then teleported the two to the train station and boarded. It wasn’t until they were on the train that Sunset noticed Spike was in a tuxedo. “You look nice Spike.” Sunset “Thanks.” Spike said smiling warmly. Sunset thought back to what Spike was doing when she came back to the library. “Hey Spike?” Sunset called. “Yeah?” Spike responded. “What were you and Twilight doing when I came back, if I didn’t know better, I would have said you were proposing.” Sunset asked. Spike began to sweat a bit. “Okay, umm… think of something.” “Oh, she was just giving me something.” Spike said nervously. “Why were you on one knee?” Sunset asked raising an eyebrow. “I...tripped.” Spike lied. Sunset thought this was a valid enough reason. She was still a little bit suspicious but didn’t want to dwell on it. Sunset and Spike began to talk on various subjects. At one point they ended up talking about the human world. “So, in the other world, why did you only seem to be about sixteen?” Spike asked. “Well from what I gathered is when I left to go to that world, my pony form stopped aging and I was brought into that world younger than I was here. I really have no clue why.” Sunset replied. “So, how old are you technically?” Spike asked. “Spike, you never ask a lady’s age.” Sunset said jokingly. “Oh, I’m sorry.” Spike apologized. “It’s okay, I think I would be around thirty but I’m more like twenty two.” Sunset answered. The train pulled into the station a few moments later. They got off and headed to the restaurant, where they took the seat they had when they had first come here. The waiter came and he looked oddly familiar. “Bonjour, I am Silver Platter and I will be your waiter today.” The waiter said. “Hey, you were our waiter last time.” Spike exclaimed. “Ah, yes I remember you two, and how are you doing today?” Silver Platter asked. “I am doing wonderful.” Sunset replied. “I’m doing just dandy.” Spike answered. “And what will you be having this evening?” Silver Platter asked. “I will have the french onion soup again please.” Sunset said. “I would like the cheese omelette, again.” Spike said giggling. “Shall I also fetch you a bottle of wine?” The waiter asked smiling. Sunset nodded and Silver Platter walked off. Spike was shifting around nervously. He had the whole thing planned out, he would take her around town for a bit, and when the sun sets, he would propose. Thoughts off what was going to come were racing through Sunset’s head. She knew what she would do, she would take him around town and at sunset, she would propose. Their food and drink arrived soon and they ate with the occasional banter. They soon finished and once again, split the check. The couple walked around town for a bit, showing of their favorite places. They both learned of a few places they didn’t know existed. Sunset looked to the horizon and saw that the sun would be setting soon. “Hey Spike.” Sunset asked, beginning to feel butterflies in her stomach. “Yes?” Spike replied also getting nervous. “I’m going to take us to the field we were at last time.” Sunset said nervously. “O-Okay.” Spike replied. In an instant they went from the capital of Equestria to a field outside Ponyville. The sun was beginning to set and it was beautiful. The two sat and watched it in all its glory. Once it touched the horizon both spoke up. “I have to ask you something.” They both said in unison. They both looked at each other and blushed. “I really need to ask you now.” Sunset said. “Me too.” Spike replied. “Same time?” Sunset suggested. “Okay.” Spike asked. They both took a big breath as if it were their last. “Will you marry me?” They asked in unison. They looked at each other in disbelief but were immeasurably happy in that moment. “Of course I’ll marry you.” Sunset said with tears in her eyes. “I would love nothing more than to marry you.” Spike replied. What they did next needed no words; they both just went forward and kissed. Soon after they exchanged rings. They also both read the inscriptions. On Spike ring “Always and forever, my dragon.” On Sunset’s ring “The most beautiful Sunset.” > CH.14 Spreading the News > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The couple took one more look at their rings. Sunset couldn’t believe this. Not only did she propose and he said yes, but vice versa. Sunset could feel tears begin to form; today was perfect, in every way. Sunset put her hooves around Spike and began to hug him, letting the tears flow. The couple stood there for what seemed like a lifetime in each other’s embrace. “I love you Spike.” Sunset lovingly, looking into Spike’s eyes. “I love you too Sunset.” Spike replied looking into Sunset’s eyes. What happened next required no words. In that field, a few miles away from Ponyville they made love. It may not have been their first time, but it meant much more to them. Even after they had finished they never went home that night, opting to lay there in each other’s embrace. The lovers lay there, nothing existing but them in that moment. They awoke early the next morn. The first thing they saw was each other. They were still immeasurably happy from the night previous. They had woke just in time to see Celestia’s sun rising. They both sat there in awe just watching the beauty. Neither wanted to break the silence but there were questions to be asked and answered. “So, what do we do now?” Spike asked. Sunset took a moment to ponder her options, eventually picking one to be the best. “Well, we should go and tell our friends before we do anything else.” Sunset replied. “That sounds like a good idea; I guess we should tell Twilight first.” Spike stated. “Why not Rarity?” Sunset countered. “Why her first? Twilight helped me propose to you.” Spike counter-countered. “Rarity helped me propose to you, she even made that dress I had on just for last night.” Sunset counter-counter-countered. “But, regardless, we should see Twilight first; we didn’t come home last night.” Sunset said. “Oh...yeah.” Spike replied. “Hold on, I teleport us there.” Sunset said putting a hoof around Spike. In the blink of an eye Sunset and Spike were teleported to the library. The sudden appearance surprised Twilight who, from her looks, seemed like she had been there all night. “Oh thank Celestia!” Twilight said hugging the two. Sunset and Spike laughed nervously. “Why didn’t you two come home?” Twilight asked, then she noticed the ring on Spiked finger. “And why do you have a ring?” Twilight asked. “Well, I proposed to him.” Sunset said. “Wait, but I thought Spike was going to?” Twilight said in confusion. Sunset and Spike took ten minutes to explain all that had happened the night before, except a few details. Twilight had become ecstatic at hearing that they had become engaged. “Oh I’m so happy for you two! Have you decided on the wedding date? Have you thought of a guest list, or have you…” Twilight started listing. “We haven’t planned out anything yet. We were just planning on telling everyone today.” Sunset cut off. “Oh, okay hehe.”  Twilight said nervously. “Well, we would stay longer but we have to go tell everypony else!” Spike said enthusiastically. “Okay, just come home tonight!” Twilight said in a motherly tone. “Yes mother.” Sunset replied. The couple left the library, they were glad Twilight was happy for them. Their next stop would be Rarity. On the way there, Sunset thought of a question. “Hey hun?” Sunset called. “Yes, sweetie?” Spike replied. “Have you given any thought as to who you want to be your best man?” Sunset asked. “Yeah, I have an idea.” Spike replied. “Who?” Sunset asked. “Well, Discord, we have actually become good friends. He’s not so bad once you get to know him. Fluttershy was right, again.” Spike answered. “Have you thought of who you want to be your best mare?” Spike asked. “Yes, I asked Rarity to and she said she would. Despite our less than stellar past, we have a lot in common.” Sunset answered. “I guess that makes sense.” Spike replied. The couple continued their walk with random conversations here and there. They soon arrived at Rarity’s house/work. They knocked on the door and were responded to by Rarity. “Come in darling.” Rarity said. The couple walked into the boutique. Rarity walked up to the two from whatever project she was working on. “Hello there darlings.” Rarity greeted. “Hey Rarity.” Spike said. “Hey, I have good news for you.” Sunset said eagerly. “Did he…?” Rarity asked with enthusiasm. “He said yes.” Sunset replied with the largest grin. “Ooooh, I am so happy for the two of you. Sunset, why do you have a ring?” Rarity said. “Well you see…” Sunset started. Sunset and Spike gave Rarity the same story they gave Twilight, but with a few more details, knowing she would take it better. “Oooh, that is so romantic, I do hope when Thunderlane proposes, it will be just as romantic as you two.” Rarity swooned. “Thank you Rarity, and thank you for the dress.” Sunset replied. “No problem darling. I wish you two the best but I must get back to work, I have a client coming in tomorrow for his order.” Rarity said with a tone of regret. “It’s okay; we have to go tell everyone else.” Sunset replied walking toward the door with Spike. “Good luck you two!” Rarity said as they walked out. The couple walked out of the shop glad she was also happy, regardless of what was expected. They had four more to go, they were sure Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie would be happy for them but they were not sure about Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Even after all this time they were still skeptical of Sunset. This made her feel kinda bad but she tried not to think on it too much as they had a good reason to hate her if they did. “Hey Sunset?” Spike called. “Yes?” Sunset replied. “Well, would you mind if I rode on your back?” Spike asked with a blush and a sheepish smile. Sunset just smiled at the display and put him on her back. He instantly put his arms around her neck in a hug. This made Sunset feel warm on the inside, she didn't care what anyone thought, and it was the little things that meant the most. They walked through the town towards Sugarcube corner. They got some odd glances and even a few of disgust, not everypony agreed about their relationship but they kept it to themselves. The walk was short and they soon arrived at the gingerbread house. When they walked inside they were greeted by the pink mare they were looking for. “Hey you two, did you come here to tell me any news?” Pinkie said with breathing. “Yeah, how did you know?” Sunset asked. “Duh, itchy hoof means somepony is going to tell me something important.” Pinkie stated with her usual enthusiasm. “Well yeah, we came here to tell you that Spike and I are getting married.” Sunset said with joy. “Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh! I am so happy for you two! You have to let me throw a party for you two! A ‘Sunset Shimmer and Spike are getting married’ party!” Pinkie replied without a single breath. “Of course Pinkie.” Spike replied. “I have to get planning right now, and you two have to go tell the rest of our friends!” Pinkie replied. The couple walked out of the shop, once again glad. So far everything was going perfectly. They walked in silence to Fluttershy’s cottage, deciding to tell her next. It took a little bit as her house was out of the way of the town. They soon arrived and knocked on the door. It opened to the sight of Discord. “Why hello you two love birds.” Discord said conjuring up two birds. “Hey Discord, is Fluttershy home?” Spike asked. “What, don’t want to talk to little old chaotic me? I’m hurt, I thought we were friends.” Discord said feigning sadness. “We’re here to talk to both of you.” Spike said rolling his eyes. “Ah yes.” Discord said, poofing Fluttershy to them. “W-What?!” Fluttershy questioned in fear. “Sorry to scare you dear, but Sunset Shimmer and Spike are here to talk to us.” Discord replied. “Oh no, what did Screwball do?” Fluttershy asked. “What? Nothing, this is about me and Spike.” Sunset replied. “Oh good, you wouldn’t believe what trouble the daughter of chaos could get into.”  Fluttershy stated. Both Sunset and Spike rolled their eyes at this. “We came here to tell you that Sunset and I are getting married.” Spike said with joy. “Oh that’s wonderful!” Fluttershy said with joy. “Hmm, a marriage as chaotic as yours? I approve.” Discord aid in a joking tone. “Well, we just wanted to stop by and tell you two, we are telling all our friends so, we must be off.” Sunset said as they began to walk to Sweet Apple Acres. "Well good luck you two. Come Fluttershy there is chaos to be done." Discord said teleporting the two of them off to an unknown location. The walk was a lengthy one as the two places were nowhere near each other. But they soon made it up to the house where they saw both Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Two birds with one stone Sunset thought to herself. “Howdy, what brings you two out here?” Applejack asked. “Yeah, we were having a conversation.” Rainbow replied slightly miffed. “Well we came here to tell you two that Spike and I are getting married!” Sunset with as much joy as there had been the first time. “Well color me pink and call me a pig that’s wonderful!” Applejack stated. “Yeah, that’s cool, but if you hurt Spike...” Rainbow started. “You’ll beat me into a fine powder, that’s getting old, and was never threatening,” Sunset replied. Rainbow let out a harumph. Sunset just laughed at the sight. “We just wanted to stop by and tell all our friends.” Spike added. “Well thank ya kindly!” Applejack said. “Well, we best be getting back to the library, it’s getting late.” Sunset replied walking off. Telling their friends had taken all day and it seemed to be about five, but the couple was also very tired. They walked back to the library, had a simple dinner and decided to turn in early for the night. Sunset couldn’t help but think she forgot somebody, then it hit her as she and Spike lay in bed. “Spike.” Sunset said nervously. “Yeah, what’s wrong?” Spike asked, shifting to look her in the eyes. “We still have to tell Celestia. What if she doesn’t approve or banishes me to the human world?” Sunset said panicking, “I think she will be happy for us. But if she does decide to send you back to the human world, I’ll go with you; I couldn’t imagine life without you.” Spike said tenderly. “Thank you Spike, I love you.” Sunset said in her most loving tone. “I love you too.” Spike replied, wrapping his arms around her. > CH.15 Mother > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Celestia stared at Sunset Shimmer with immense disapproval. Celestia was sure the only reason Sunset was marrying her son, Spike, was to gain power. “I cannot let you marry Spike. You only want him to gain power in Equestria.” Sunset stared blankly at Celestia, what she was saying wasn't true. She truly loved Spike and here Celestia was, saying otherwise. “No! That’s not true! I love Spike!” Sunset yelled at Celestia with tears in her eyes. She turned to look at Spike to see how he was reacting. He had tears in his eyes; she thought this meant that Spike believed she loved her, until he spoke. “I thought you loved me.” Spike said with depression in his voice. Sunset began to openly sob, this couldn’t be happening. Spike didn’t believe her. “No, Spike I do love you! Please believe me!” Sunset said through the tears. “I can’t believe you; I thought that you loved me. I gave you my heart and you spat on it.” Spike said in both depression and anger. Spike then began to walk towards the princess. Sunset fell to the floor, sobbing uncontrollably, this was too much for her. “Leave Equestria and never return.” Celestia said in a stern, uncaring tone. Sunset got up and began running away, crying. But she wasn’t headed to the gate; she was heading to the balcony on the top floor. She soon stood at the very edge of the balcony looking down. “I have nothing left; I have no friends, no home. Worst of all, Spike thinks I never loved him, that I was using him. The ends right there, just a few more steps.” Sunset began slowly walking towards the edge, until she began to fall. Sunset awoke with the feeling of being shaken. She opened her eyes and soon realized she had been crying because of her nightmare. She saw Spike with a worried look, shaking her to wake. After remembering her nightmare she wanted to cry again. She grabbed Spike and held him close as she began to sob. Spike began to whisper comforting words to her to help her calm down. She took a good twenty minutes to calm down to where she could speak a coherent sentence. “Shh, it’s alright.” Spike said in a calm, loving tone. “T-Thanks f-f-for staying.” Sunset choked out. “What kind of a fiancé if I didn’t care about you? Now tell me what's wrong.” Spike said in a loving tone. “I-I h-had a r-really b-bad d-d-dream.” Sunset said still holding Spike close. Spike started to hold her tighter; he knew how bad dreams could be. “Do you think talking about it might help?” Spike asked. “M-Maybe.” Sunset replied. “What happened?” Spike asked. “W-Well, we told C-Celestia about us getting married, and she didn’t think I-I loved you. You s-started to believe it as well a-and then she banished me from E-Equestria. T-Then I couldn’t take it anymore s-so I went up to the highest balcony and…” Sunset said but burst in to another crying fit. “I’m sorry.” Spike said sincerely. “I-It’s n-not your f-f-fault. I-In fact y-you helped by staying.” Sunset said looking into his eyes. “I love you Sunset, never forget that.” Spike said. Sunset, without thinking about it at all, leapt onto Spike and began passionately making out with him. She continued to do so for a while, melting into his embrace. Much to her chagrin they broke apart. “What did I do to deserve that?” Spike asked. “Being the best boyfriend I could ask for. I must have been a great person in some other life to deserve you.” Sunset said. “No, you deserve me no matter what.” Spike said booping her nose. Sunset giggled at this and struggled up to him. They lay there for a while, until Twilight knocked on the door and trotted in. “Hey you two…… Am I interrupting something?” Twilight asked. “No, not really.” Sunset replied looking towards Twilight. “Well, I just wanted to let you know that I’m going to be in Canterlot all day.” Twilight said. “Wait, actually, could we come with you?” Sunset said. “Why?” Twilight asked. “Spike and I have some news for Celestia.” Sunset said in a solemn tone. “Oh, okay. Yeah, I’m leaving now so just get anything you want and we’ll head off.” Twilight said and walked downstairs. The couple got up and out of the bed. Sunset glanced at the clock to see the time. It was currently twelve in the afternoon.  She looked to Spike who was grabbing a few gems from his ‘secret stash.’ Sunset put on a winter jacket Rarity made her and put a scarf she had made for Spike on Spike. “Well, I’m good to go; you got all the gems you want?” Sunset said in a smug tone. Spike blushed and put the gems behind his back. “What gems?” He asked sheepishly. Sunset just rolled her eyes as a response. She then levitated Spike onto her back and began to walk downstairs to meet Twilight. “Ready to go?” Twilight asked. “Yep.” The couple said in unison. “So, are we taking the train?” Sunset asked. “Nope, Celestia is sending a chariot.” Twilight replied. “Okay.” Sunset replied. The trio walked out of the library and saw a chariot coming towards them. It landed right in front of them. Twilight gestured them in. The ride was taken in silence between the trio. Sunset and Spike were both nervous about telling Celestia. Sunset prayed that it didn’t turn out like the dream had. Her eyes began to tear up just thinking about it. Spike took notice and hugged her leg. Sunset looked down and smiled at the dragon. The rest of the ride seemed to just blend together and they soon arrived at the palace. Twilight said goodbye to the two, as she was heading to see Luna, not Celestia. Sunset and Spike began walking the halls until they found the throne room where Celestia was sitting. She noticed the two and smiled. Celestia gestured to two to come over. They walked very nervously. “Hello Spike and Sunset Shimmer, what brings you two here today?” Celestia asked in a friendly tone. “W-Well there is something we want to tell you.” Sunset replied. “Oh, and what is this?” Celestia asked arching her brow. “This is it, no going back. Unless I… no I have to do this, no matter how much I don’t want to.” Sunset thought. “Well, we wanted to say that….. We are getting married.” Sunset replied. Celestia looked taken aback at the news. Sunset and Spike stood nervously. Celestia’s face then twisted into what looked to be anger. “I see, you never came here for forgiveness. You just want power.” Celestia growled. “No! No, I did come here for forgiveness; I love Spike I really do!” Sunset yelled just holding back sobs. “No, you just want to marry into power.” Celestia said with a scowl. Sunset looked to Spike; he looked like he had in the dream. “No, this can’t be happening.” “How dare you!?” Spike yelled pointing at Celestia. When Spike yelled at Celestia and not her, she was beyond relieved. “What?” Celestia said in disbelief. “How dare you!? Accuse my fiancé of not loving me and only wanting power! I thought you cared about me!” Spike yelled at Celestia. Sunset couldn’t believe it; Spike was standing up for her, to Celestia! “Somedragon is getting very very lucky tonight.” Sunset thought in the back of her brain. “I do care about you. Can’t you see she’s using you?!” Celestia said in a raised voice. “No, if you cared about me, you would be happy for me!” Spike yelled back. “I am your mother; of course I care for you!” Celestia replied. “No.” Spike said simply. “What?” Celestia asked. “If you were my mother you would be happy that I found love. You would support me. You’re not my mother.” Spike replied coldly. Both Sunset and Celestia’s mouths dropped after the bomb dropped. Sunset couldn’t believe how far he was going for her, FOR HER. She loved that dragon, more than she had ever loved anypony else.  Sunset decided to speak up for once in the fight. “Come on Spike, we’re leaving.” Sunset said levitating him onto her back. The couple then left the room without another word. They began to walk to the Canterlot gardens to try and calm down. As soon as they were away from everypony Sunset kissed Spike like never before. “That was for standing up for me.” Sunset whispered to him. “I will always stand up for you. Celestia was wrong; I wish it hadn’t ended like that. “Me too, but thank you Spike. I’m glad I’m with you.” Sunset said kissing Spike again. Spike blushed and hugged the unicorn. They decided to stay in the garden and just talk for a while. They were in the middle of talking about gems when they heard hoofsteps. They turned to see Celestia. Spike regarded her coldly. “What do you want?” Spike said coldly. “I wanted to apologize.” Celestia said solemnly. “What?” Both Sunset and Spike asked. “I acted without thinking. I was wrong, very wrong. I don’t want to lose my son or future daughter because of my foolishness.” Celestia said looking hopeful. “Future daughter? Does this mean...” Sunset started. “Yes, I thought it over, and I approve of your marriage. I would actually like to be the one to wed you two.” Celestia said. Sunset and Spike looked to each other and smiled. They both looked to Celestia. “We forgive you.” They both said. Celestia replied with a hug to the couple. In the middle of the hug Sunset spoke up. “Just don’t do that again.” Sunset said with a chuckle. They were all very willing to put this all behind them. All in all, it turned out well Sunset reasoned. “Of course, daughter.” Celestia replied with a smile. > CH.16 Planning > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was now a month from Sunset and Spike telling Celestia of their marriage. Things had been going smoothly. Today they had decided to discuss the specifics of their wedding, to plan it out. They didn’t want to do it too early but they believed today was a good day. Sunset had gone through the process of getting Twilight out of the home for the day so they could have their privacy. They had just finished their breakfast and were sitting at the table to begin discussions. “Okay, are you ready to plan this wedding?” Sunset asked Spike. “Yeah, it won’t take too long.” Spike said. “Oh, you are sooooo wrong.” “So, where do you think we should have the wedding?” Sunset asked. “Umm, I was thinking we could have it somewhere in Ponyville, or not too far.” Spike answered. “I was thinking we should hold it in the field we proposed in.” Sunset said. “Oooh, I like that. Hey where exactly is that anyway? You’ve always just teleported us there.” Spike inquired. “It’s about a ten minute walk to the west from here.” Sunset answered. “Hmm, yeah that sounds like a good walk. Yeah, let’s have it there.” Spike said. “Okay, location check.”  Sunset said checking it off her list. “Really? A checklist, you are so much like Twi sometimes.” Spike said. “Well, I want this wedding to be perfect.” Sunset countered. “As long as you're the bride it will be.” Spike said in a sweet tone. “Awwwwww, you’re so sweet.” Sunset said giving Spike a kiss. Spike just blushed at the complement. To both of them, no matter how much time passed, it always felt just as wonderful as the first. Sunset was so happy she had decided to come back to Equestria. “So, how much money do we have to spend on this wedding?” Sunset asked. “Well, let me just say money is not an issue” Spike replied. “What did I say about asking Celestia for bits?” sunset said in a stern tone. “I didn’t! I sold my hoard of gems.” Spike replied. That struck Sunset. She knew how important a hoard was to a dragon. She had read many books on dragons. She knew that even if it was their mate taking from the hoard, they would kill the thief. She knew how much Spike’s hoard had meant to him, and he sold it so they could have the best wedding possible. That was the final straw before throwing herself at Spike. The planning could wait an hour or two. Well, maybe it was more like three hours but the wedding wasn’t going anywhere. They cleaned up themselves and the library and got back to discussions. “Okay, that was a nice….break...but back to planning out the perfect wedding.” Sunset stated. “Yeah, so what’s next on your checklist?” Spike asked. “Hmm, who do you want to invite?” Sunset asked. “Well Twi and the gang obviously.” Spike answered. “Yeah, and Celestia and Luna.” Sunset added. “Discord as well.” Spike added. “Well obviously the best man has to be there.” Sunset said. “I was just trying to help.” Spike mumbled. “I know, but let’s stick to the non-obvious.” Sunset replied. “Hmm, the Cakes.” Spike added. “Yeah. Oh, and Lyra and Bonbon.” Sunset added. “Why them? “Spike asked. “I have become really good friends with them as of late.” Sunset answered. “Okay. Oh, Twilight’s parents.” Spike added. “Did we ever tell them?” Sunset asked. “Well...no.” Spike replied. “Want to just send a letter?” Sunset asked. “Yeah, but make ones for Shining Armor and Cadance too.” Spike added. Sunset nodded and began to write the letters. She soon finished and had Spike mail them off using his fire. “Okay, so that it?” Sunset asked. “Yeah, I think.” Spike answered. Sunset looked down at the checklist and checked off ‘guests.’ She looked down to the next line to see what was next, it was the date, why wasn’t that number one? “Okay, so when do want to have the wedding?” Sunset asked looking up from the list. “I was thinking August 21.” Spike answered. “Hmm, something is familiar about that day. Wait, wasn’t that the day I came back to Equestria?” Sunset asked. “Yep, I thought it would be special.” Spike replied. “I don’t know, Celestia has to judge if I’m allowed to stay in Equestria.” Sunset replied with an undertone of being scared. “Sunset, I am sure you are staying Equestria, what have you done to warrant otherwise?” Spike asked looking her in the eye. “Well, yeah I guess you’re right, August 21st it is.” Sunset said marking it off. “What’s next?” Spike asked. Sunset looked down the list to see what they were to discuss next. She actually was surprised how well this was going, they hadn’t fought about anything. That made her feel happy that they are in tune with each other. The next item on the list was flowers. “Okay, first who can we buy flowers from?” Sunset asked. “Well, Rose has a stand in Ponyville.” Spike answered. “Oh yeah, okay so what kind of flowers do you want?” Sunset asked. “Um, I’m not really big on flowers.” Spike replied. “Oh come on, just pick one and I’ll pick the rest.” Sunset pleaded. “Okay okay, how about Dragon’s breath? I always thought they were pretty.” Spike said with a blush. “I think that’s a great idea, and there is nothing to be embarrassed about.” Sunset said reassuringly. “Thanks, so what are the ones you are picking?” Spike asked. “How about roses, tulips and hydrangeas?” Sunset asked. “Sounds wonderful.” Spike replied. Sunset smiled and checked yet another item off the list. The next item was the colors. “What do you want the colors of our wedding to be?” Sunset asked. “Well, I was thinking purple as one color.” Spike answered. “Gee, I wonder why. What should the second color be?” Sunset asked. “I don’t know, why don’t you pick this one?” Spike offered. Sunset began to think through all the colors she could think of. There were a lot but she couldn’t think of a good one. Her mane fell in her face and she looked at it for second and smiled, Of course! “How about orange?” Sunset asked. “I had a feeling you would pick that.” Spike said with a grin. Sunset checked it off and moved on to the next item. “Next are the bridesmaids and groomsmen.” Sunset stated. “Well, for the groomsmen I want Big Mac and Shining Armor.” Spike replied. “Sounds good, Big Mac’s a nice guy. I’ve only met Shining Armour like once.” Sunset replied. “Well, he was always really nice to me.” Spike said. “That’s enough to make him good in my books.” Sunset replied. “So, how about your bridesmaids?” Spike inquired. “I want them to be Twilight and Fluttershy.” Sunset replied. “Makes sense, you have been spending a lot of time with Fluttershy lately.” Spike commented. “Well she is really nice.” Sunset said. “That she is. Hey, how are you going to remember all this anyway?” Spike asked. “I cast a memory spell so I can perfectly recall this conversation at any time.” Sunset replied. “Oh, that’s...” Spike started. Spike was cut off by a knocking at the door. Sunset and Spike got up to see who it was. When they opened it they saw the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “Oh, hey girls.” Sunset greeted. “Hello Miss Shimmer.” The fillies said in unison. “So what brings you three here today?” Sunset asked. “We just wanted to see if Spike would come and make snow ponies with us today!” Sweetie Belle said. “Um, could you three excuse me for a moment?” Sunset asked. “Sure.” Applebloom replied. Sunset Shimmer walked back to the kitchen to see Spike waiting. “Why do you play with a group of children?” Sunset asked. Spike began to blush at the question. “Well, I am a baby in dragon terms and they don’t even know that I’m eighteen to the best of my knowledge. Also I usually don’t, only when Twilight makes me.” Spike replied. “Oh…okay. Sorry for sounding accusing.” Sunset said sheepishly. “It’s okay, it sounds weird I know.” Spike said. Sunset walked back to the door and saw the fillies standing there. “Okay I’m back. Anyway he really can’t, the both of us are busy.” Sunset replied. “What would you two be doing?” Scootaloo asked. “Planning our wedding.” Sunset replied. “WHAT?!” The fillies cried in unison. Sunset covered her ears from the assault and uncovered them after. “Yeah, the two of us are getting married.” Sunset said. “B-But he’s not old enough to get married.” Sweetie Belle stated; she looked a little sad at the news. “Actually he’s eighteen.” Sunset replied. “He is?” The fillies asked together. “Yeah.” Sunset replied. “Oh, well, I guess we’ll be going then.” Scootaloo said. The fillies said their goodbyes and left. Sunset noticed that Sweetie Belle had been pretty upset. She deduced that she had a crush on Spike. Sunset began to laugh as she walked back to the kitchen. She sat back down. “I think Sweetie Belle had a crush on you.” Sunset said with a chuckle. “Oh, um… I really don’t know how to feel about that.” Spike replied. “Okay, so let’s get back to it. Next on the list is music.” Sunset said. “I was thinking Octavia’s group.” Spike replied. “Sounds good.” Sunset said checking it off. “The last thing for now is who will be providing the food.” Sunset said. The couple both looked at each other and came to the conclusion of Pinkie. Sunset checked it off the list. “Okay, that’s all for today. We can plan the rest when it’s closer.” Sunset stated. Sunset glanced at the clock in the room to see it was about three in the afternoon. Sunset thought of something to do rather quickly. “Want to go make snow ponies?” Sunset asked. “Sure, sounds fun.” Spike said grabbing his scarf. Sunset got all bundled up. Sunset and Spike spent the rest of the daylight making snow ponies outside the library. > CH.17 Research > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was just a normal day in Ponyville. It was raining so Sunset decided to stay inside today. She would be doing something with Spike, but Rarity needed him to take measurements for his tuxedo. So Sunset decided to learn a new spell or two. Twilight had just reorganized so everything was in its place. Sunset picked a random book from the spell section of the library and began reading. She soon found a spell called mind reading. The title intrigued her so she read on. The book said with this spell she could read any other pony or creature’s mind. It said the spell should only be used for 30 minutes at a time to avoid brain damage. It also suggested using it only once a day. Below were detailed instructions on how to cast the spell discreetly. Sunset quickly memorized the spell and began to ponder. “This could be useful. But I should test it out first, but on who? Twilight? Naw, it might be considered treason to read the mind of a princess. Rarity? Naw, I don’t think that would yield much. Applejack? She tells the truth so it would be useless. Rainbow Dash? Naw, I still think she hates me so I don’t need to give her a reason. Fluttershy? I would feel horrible afterwards. Pinkie? I don’t even want to know what goes on in her head. Hmm” At that moment Spike returned from Rarity’s. “I’m back!” Spike yelled. Sunset then knew who she would be using the spell on. She would ask questions he would be willing to lie about. Yes this plan was perfect. Sunset walked up to Spike after putting the book back. “Hey Spikey.” Sunset said casting the spell. “Hey Sunset.” Spike said giving her a quick kiss. “Hey can we talk?” Sunset asked. “Sure why?” Spike replied “Oh no, what did I do?” Spike’s mind replied. “Oh I just want to talk with my husband to be.” Sunset replied with a smile. “Okay, about what?” Spike asked. “Well, I wanted to ask, do you think I look fat?” Sunset asked, expecting a lie. “No, not at all. You look wonderful.” Spike replied with a smile. “You have put on a few pounds.” Spike’s mind replied. Sunset was slightly hurt, regardless of knowing she had put on a bit of weight. She decided to start working out…..tomorrow. “Aww thanks dear. So what about my personality do you like the most?” Sunset asked. “How caring you are.” Spike replied. Spike’s brain replied with the same answer, so it was the truth. Sunset thought it was kinda sweet. “And about my body?” Sunset asked. “Your eyes, there beautiful” Spike replied. “Your flank.” Spikes mind replied. Sunset blushed at hearing that. But in that same moment she thought of at least ten new ways to arouse and tease Spike in bed tonight. This caused Sunset to gain a cocky smirk. “Aww you’re too sweet.” Sunset said. “Anything for you.” Spike replied. Spikes mind actually had nothing to say. Then Sunset thought of something she actually really wanted to know. “Spike?” Sunset asked. “Why did you start to like me in the first place?” Sunset asked. “To make a long answer short, your personality.” Spike replied in a soft tone. “Wow, there was so much about you I liked. I loved how you went out of your way to be nice to me. I thought you were really funny. You were childish and I thought it was actually really endearing. You were generous. You were helpful and just really fun to be around. I’m actually really happy I fell for you over Rarity. You are so much more than she ever was to me.” Spike mind explained in detail. Sunset could begin to feel tears welling up. It really did mean a lot to her to hear all of that. How Spike felt about her. It was worth more than any diamond. Sunset knew that the thirty minutes were almost up, so she decided to ask something that had been on her mind from two months ago when the Cutie Mark Crusaders had come to see if Spike would come and play with them. “Spike, I have a really serious question, and I need your honest answer.” Sunset started. “Of course.” Spike replied. “Unless that answer would hurt you.” Spikes brain said. Sunset smiled sweetly, Spike really did care for her. “Well, once we are married, I wanted to know if you wanted to have foal with me?” Sunset smiling nervously. “Come on Spike, you have wanted to talk to her about this for a while now. Tell her!” Spike’s mind said to itself. “Well, actually, I have wanted to talk to you about this for a while. The answer is yes, I would really love to start a family with you.” Spike said in the most loving and serious tone that was possible. Sunset was, beyond happy. She wanted to start a family with Spike, and he felt the same. Sunset could feel tears start to flow. She grabbed Spike and hugged him lovingly. They stood there hugging for quite some time. During which Sunset turned off the spell. “Spike?” Sunset called as they broke apart. “Yeah?” Spike replied. “I love you.” Sunset said. “I love you too.” Spike replied. “Do you want to go and read up on dragon and pony children, for future reference?” Sunset asked. “Yeah, I would like that. But do we even have any books on that?” Spike asked. “Nope, But the Canterlot Library in the castle does.” Sunset said. “Well I think we missed the train so...” Spike started. Spike was cut off by Sunset teleporting the two of them into the library.  Spike was a little light headed from it but was otherwise okay. He saw Sunset already with several books. Sunset hoofed him over a few. “Here, you look through those and me these.” Sunset said. “Okay, sure.” Spike said opening the first book. It was a little while before either found anything that was useful, not obvious or interesting about a pony and dragon mating. “Wow, um I found something interesting.” Sunset said, “What?” Spike asked looking up. “Well, it says if a dragon does impregnate a pony that, said pony will live as long as the dragon does, and will remain at their current age. It’s something to do with dragons only ever having one mate for life that lets the pony live long enough to be the dragons mate for their life.” Sunset said in a surprised tone. Spike’s jaw dropped and he looked over at her book to make sure she hadn’t misread. She hadn’t, she was always going to be with him. “So, you are...” Spike started. “Never going to leave you, for any reason.” Sunset said in the happiest tone. Sunset immediately kissed Spike after saying such. They were both ecstatic. “I can’t believe it; you're going to live with me as long as I do.” Spike said. “I know, I couldn’t be happier, now I get to spend your life with you.” Sunset said hugging Spike. “I wonder what else there is to this?” Spike wondered aloud. “Let’s look.” Sunset said opening the next book. They began to look through the books for even more information. They came across many different facts about their future child. As in they would have the life of a dragon. What their typical appearance would be. While looking through books about dragons in general they found some facts about Spike’s type of dragon. How they never got much bigger than the average pony, unless they succumb to their greed. How in five hundred years he would be able to do magic. There were so many useful facts, but still a lot of holes. There had only been for other “draconies” in history. So ponies only knew so much. That night they decided to stay in the castle and tell Celestia of their findings, as she would want to know if she already didn’t. It was at dinner time they decided to tell her. “I’m very happy you two decided to stay here for dinner, or breakfast in Luna’s case.” Celestia said with a smile. “Well, we actually wanted to tell you about a few things we learned as well Celestia.” Sunset said while eating her chef’s salad. “Oh, and what have you two been studying?” Celestia asked. “Well, stuff about Spike’s species of dragon and what will happen once we start a family.” Sunset replied. “Oh, and what have you learned?” Celestia asked. “Well, I learned that I’m going to live as long as Spike.” Sunset replied. Celestia choked on her salad after hearing that. “Well, that certainly is interesting. I’m however very happy for you two. I also think this will help Twilight.” Celestia said. “What do you mean?” Spike asked. “Since she is an alicorn, she is immortal. I do think keeping two of her friends will help ease the pain once the others regrettably pass away.” Celestia said in a solemn tone. “Wow, yeah. I guess you’re right. I will always have Sunset but, she is going to lose all her friends. So am I, but I think it will hurt her more.” Spike said in a sad tone. Sunset moved closed to him and put a foreleg around him. “Yes, well to move to a less depressing topic, what else have you learned?” Celestia asked. Sunset and Spike went on to explain their findings to her for the next two hours. Once they were done Celestia offered to give them a room in the castle for the night, which they accepted. They headed off to their room for the night. Once they got there, Sunset pushed Spike on the bed and gave him a seductive look. She was going to use those ten new ideas to tease Spike. > CH.18 The Door > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was nice day in Ponyville. It was only one month until Sunset Shimmer and Spike’s wedding. Everpony was very excited that it was almost there. Sunset and Spike had gone out for a walk around Ponyville. On the way back, Spike said he had to stop by Fluttershy’s to help her for a bit. So they went their separate ways. Sunset arrived at the library. “Hello, Twilight?” Sunset yelled as she walked in. Sunset took a good look around the room and saw nopony. But she did see a really weird door she had never seen before. “Twilight?” Sunset called again. Still no reply. At this point Sunset assumed Twilight wasn’t home. She decided to go and see what this strange door was. It had a crystal on the top of the frame. The frame had a few crystal spikes, but they looked to be for decoration. Her interest was piqued. “Why would Twilight just have this door in the middle of the room?” Sunset decided to open it for fun. So Sunset opened the door and got a chill. She just brushed it off as a random feeling. When the door opened, it was as she expected. There was nothing on the other side. “Well why would there have been?” Sunset turned around and was greeted by the sight of Spike. “Oh, hey dear. Hey, why is this door here?” Sunset asked. “I don’t know or care.” Spike replied in a malicious tone. Sunset picked up on the odd tone. “Umm, Spike, is something wrong?” Sunset asked nervously. Spike glared at her. Sunset could feel something was wrong. “Yeah there is. You’re here.” Spike replied in his malicious tone. “Um... what?” Sunset asked. “Are you as deaf as you are dumb? My problem is you!“ Spike yelled. “W-What do you mean?” Sunset asked, beginning to feel tears welling up. “I hate you! I want you gone! I never loved you!” Spike spat. “B-B-But I thought you l-loved me.” Sunset said, tears flowing. “You thought wrong. I made a huge mistake saying yes.” Spike said taking the ring off and throwing it. Sunset’s tears were that of a waterfall. She could not speak a coherent sentence. This couldn’t be right; it had to be a nightmare. “Well, leave! I never want to see you again!” Spike yelled. “B-B-But...” Sunset started. “No, there is nothing else you worthless mare! Why would I ever love you! You kidnapped me, and tried to take over Equestria. How could I love a monster?!” Spike said, voice dripping with venom. Sunset began crying harder than before. She closed her eyes for a moment. When she opened them again she was looking at the door. Spike was standing there, holding it closed. She felt her tears flowing. She threw herself to hug Spike. “Please don’t hate me, I love you! I’ll do anything. Please!” Sunset begged while holding Spike. To anypony else it would have seemed she was crazy. But Spike knew what the door was. He recognized the look that was in a pony’s eyes when they looked into that accursed door. Sunset had been looking into the “Nightmare door” as he called it. It was the door from Sombra’s chambers. He didn’t know why it was here, but he knew he had to comfort his fiancée. “Shhh, it’s okay. I’m never going to leave you.” Spike whispered soothingly. Sunset kept sobbing into her lover's arms. She didn’t know what was going on but right now that was second. She just wanted to be comforted by her lover. Spike was happy to do so. Sunset took a while to calm down. “It’s okay.” Spike said to her. “B-B-But you said y-you hated m-me.” Sunset said. “No, the door did that. I could never hate you. I love you and I always will.” Spike soothed. Sunset was willing to believe that it had been a nightmare and cried into Spikes arms. Tears of sorrow and of joy. Once she had completely calmed down she decided to ask Spike about the door. “How did the door show me what I saw?” Sunset asked. “I’m not sure. If I had to guess it would be black magic.” Spike answered. “Oh, okay.” Sunset replied. “If you don’t mind, what did you see?” Spike asked. Sunset almost began to cry at the mention of her “vision.” “You don’t have to if you don’t want to!” Spike quickly added. “No, you deserve to know.” Sunset said. Sunset then took the next thirty minutes explaining the vision she had. Spike comforted her every time she looked like she was going to burst out in tears. Spike in turn explained the mirror and his experience with it. “I’m so sorry you had to see all that.”  Spike said. “It’s not your fault.” Sunset said. “Yeah but...” Spike started. Spike was cut off by Sunset’s lips meeting his. Spike was a little shocked at first but soon melted into it. “What was that for?” Spike asked as they pulled apart. “For being the best fiancé ever.” Sunset said while hugging him. It was then that Twilight came home. “Spike I’m baaaa…” Twilight started but then saw the scene in front of her. “Um, am I interrupting?” Twilight asked. “No, but why do you have that evil door?” Sunset asked. “Oh, that door. Celestia wanted me to research it and its purpose.” Twilight answered. “Well here is my report. It is evil, it made me cry and its purpose is to make ponies or dragons or whatever feel miserable.” Sunset stated. “Hmm, well I have gathered some information and I have one thing to ask.” Twilight said. “Okay, what?” Sunset asked. “Did it make you appreciate what you have now anymore?” Twilight asked. Sunset thought on it. She actually came to the conclusion of yes. Now that she thought of it, she appreciated Spike so much more. Didn’t make it any more enjoyable but, maybe there was a purpose to it. “Yeah it did. It made me realize how important Spike is to me. More than I had even thought before.” Sunset said with a slight smile. “Aww, you know you should send Celestia a friendship report on that.” Twilight said. “Yeah, no. I agreed to embrace friendship, not write a report afterwards.” Sunset said. “At least I tried.” Twilight said going into her studies. Sunset put Spike on her back and grabbed her bits. After that she began to walk outside. “Um where are we going?” Spike asked. “On a date. A really nice one.” Sunset answered. “Sounds nice, but why?” Spike asked. “Because I love you.” Sunset answered. > CH.19 Sleepover Before the Wedding > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was one week before Spike and Sunset Shimmer’s wedding. Therefor one week until Sunset would be judged if she would be able to stay in Equestria. She knew, and had even been reassured by Twilight and Spike that she was staying, but she couldn’t help but worry. Spike thought it would be a good idea to have a sleepover with their closest friends. They were going to have Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Discord, and Lyra as Bon Bon couldn’t make it. She had actually become good friends with the god of chaos. Lyra was her closest friend outside her little circle of friends. They were going to arrive very soon, it was almost five. They hoped to have a night of fun. Kinda a combined bachelor/bachelorette party but without certain…..aspects. Sunset, Spike and Twilight had even set up a few decoration, not many but still. Sunset heard a knocking on the door. “I got it!” Spike called out. He opened the door to see Fluttershy, Discord, and Lyra. “Hey guys, come in.” Spike greeted. “Oh, thank you Spike and thank you for having us.” Fluttershy responded meekly. “Yes Good buddy ol’ pal, it shall be a night of fun and mischief.” Discord said. “I’m sure.” Spike replied with a smile. Lyra walked in also giving her regards and walked over to Sunset. “Hey Sunset, thanks a ton for having me!” Lyra said. “No problem, you're one of my best friends.” Sunset said giving her a pat on the back. “Just sucks that Bon Bon had to be in Manehatten for a bakers convention.” Lyra said. “Yeah it’s too bad. Oh well, I’m sure we’ll have fun.” Sunset said. Lyra smiled and walked off. Just then there was another knocking at the door. The rest of the gang had showed up. They were all welcomed and gathered in the middle of the room. There was a bunch of pizza and drinks for them to eat. Discord provided chocolate milk and cotton candy. “I would just like to thank you all for coming!” Sunset said with joy. “Yeah, we’re really happy you guys showed up.” Spike said already on his third slice. “Pleasure to be here.” Applejack said taking a seat opposite of Rainbow Dash. “Yeah, thanks for having us!” Pinkie said. “So what do you guys want to do?” Sunset asked. Rarity seemed to brighten up; she opened her mouth to speak. “MAKE….” Rarity started but was cut off. “MAKEOVERS!” Discord said louder, cutting off Rarity. Everypony plus one drake gave Discord the oddest looks. Discord just smiled. “What? I wanted to beat her to it.” Discord said and added his trademark laugh. “I suppose we can.” Twilight said, in a questioning tone. “I’ll get the mascara!” Discord said teleporting away and instantaneously reappearing with it. Everypony gave him an odd look but decided not to question it. Spike began to look bored. Spike stands up looking to leave. “Well you girls and draconequus can enjoy getting make-overs, but I think I’ll be over there.” Spike said pointing to the kitchen. Sunset got a devious idea and smiled in a wicked manner. “Actually, I think you’ll be getting one too.” Sunset said picking Spike up via magic. Spike went into panic mode. “Wait nononono, I do not want a make-over!” Spike said attempting to get away. “Too bad husband to be.” Sunset said in a devious tone. One make-over session later Spike came out of the make-over with bows on his spines, blush and mascara. Both Discord and Rarity agreed he looked quote “Too cute for me to handle.” Sunset and the others were on their backs laughing. Spike was not happy at all. “Very funny guys.” Spike said while removing the ribbons. “I’m sorry, well not really. But hey, you looked cute.” Sunset said coming out of her laughing fit. “Yeah, uh-huh.” Spike said removing his make-up. “Hey you guys know what we should do?!” Pinkie asked. “What?” Twilight asked. “We should play truth or dare like we did at the first slumber party but we dared Sunset to kiss Spike and she ended up crying but everything turned out alright.” Pinkie said without taking a breath. “Ooh sounds fun.” Lyra replied. “I suppose, but Lyra darling?” Rarity started. “Yes?” Lyra responded.  “Why did you paint the end of your hoof?” Rarity asked. “Humans do it.” Lyra replied. “What? What are humans?” everypony asked except Spike, Twilight and Sunset. Sunset, Spike and Twilight all looked at each other and smiled, Lyra wasn’t wrong and they knew it. “Well, a good ol’ game of Truth or Dare.” Applejack said gathering everypony in the center. “Oh oh, I’ll start!” Pinkie said, then pointing to Rainbow Dash. “Truth or Dare?” Pinkie asked. “Dare!” Rainbow instantly replied. “I dare you not to say awesome for the rest of the night!” Pinkie said. “Good one, alright Lyra truth or dare?” Rainbow asked. “Um, dare.” Lyra answered tentatively. “Alright, I dare you to give yourself a unibrow with permanent marker.” Rainbow said giggling. Rainbow then handed a marker to Lyra who gave herself a unibrow which looked ridiculous. Rainbow proceeded to fall over laughing. Lyra just rolled her eyes. “Alright, Spike truth or dare?” Lyra asked. “You know what; I’m going to break the combo, truth.” Spike replied. “Okay, so is Sunset any good in bed?” Lyra asked in a joking tone and waggling her eyebrow. Both Sunset and Spike blushed heavily and didn’t respond. “So, yeah let’s do something else.” Twilight suggested. “Who wants to play Charades?” Discord suggested. Everypony raised their hooves. Sunset and Spike were still blushing heavily. “Alright, I'll start!” Discord said. The group then proceeded to play charades for the next few hours until they all decided to go to sleep. Sunset and Spike helped set up a bunch of sleeping bags for everyone. Discord however chose to sleep on a cotton candy cloud with Fluttershy. After they were all in sleeping bags, they clambered into their own. “Did you have a fun time?” Spike asked. “Yes I did, and as long as you’re there, I’ll be happy.” Sunset said holding Spike. “You’re so sweet. I love you Sunset.” “I love you too Spike.” Sunset said back in a loving tone. > CH.20 Wedding > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Well, Today was it, the wedding. Sunset really couldn’t believe it was actually here. It had been forever. She was both ecstatic and nervous. Today she was going to marry the love of her life, Spike. She had only known him for about a year but it didn’t matter, they meant everything to each other and today they would be wed. She couldn’t wait for it to be. She had gone out to set up everything the day before. She had a few things in odd places do to actions she predicted. Once she had woken and had breakfast, the groomsmen had gone to the library and the bride and bridesmaids went to the boutique to prepare. Sunset would then go from there to the wedding. She and Twilight had just arrived at Rarity’s. “Come in darlings!” Rarity called in a sing song voice. Sunset, Twilight and Fluttershy did just that. When they walked in, they saw Rarity magically holding a sheet over their dresses. “Oooh, I’m so excited for you darling!” Rarity said giving Sunset a hug. “Thanks Rarity. I’m really excited, but I’m also really nervous.” Sunset said, returning the gesture. “I’m sure everything will work out just fine.” Twilight said. “Yeah, just pre-wedding jitters is all. Fluttershy, you’ve been through this, any advice?” Sunset asked. “Well….um...when I was nervous I would just stop and take a big breath, then I would think of all the good times Discord and I had and I wasn’t nervous anymore. If that’s okay with you.” Fluttershy said from behind her mane. “Thanks, don’t know what I would do without you.” Sunset said. Then she proceeded to follow her friend’s advice. It did the trick; after she opened her eyes she wasn’t nervous, just happy. She had a huge smile plastered on her face. Rarity then lifted the sheet to reveal the dresses. “I hope you don’t mind, but I changed your dress a little.” Rarity said. The changes made it look exactly like her first Fall Formal dress but in the form of a small horse. “It’s gorgeous Rarity.” Sunset replied. “Okay, we should put these on.” Twilight said. So they did just that. They all put on their dresses. Sunset thought they all looked amazing. But she was in love with her wedding dress. But just then a thought struck her. “Hey girls?” Sunset called. “Yes?” replied Fluttershy. “Well you know how the bride’s father is supposed to walk her to the altar? Well what am I supposed to do?” Sunset asked in slightly sad tone. “Oh, um. I never thought of that. I guess just go by yourself.” Twilight said. Sunset nodded. “Hey, shouldn’t we get going?” Sunset said. “Yes we should, let’s walk, we have the time.” “Sounds nice, I like the scenery.” Sunset replied. The group then set out at a leisurely pace. Sunset was still slightly nervous but that was to be expected. She was also so very excited. They soon arrived but Sunset stayed out of sight of Spike, she believed it was bad luck. Sunset usually wasn't superstitious but one can’t be too careful. Everypony got into their places for the wedding to begin; Sunset was at a near panic attack when the music started. “This is it.”  Sunset walks out into the aisle and begins to walk. The other ponies there turned to look at the bride. Her only focus was the little dragon at the altar, her husband to be. This was it. Sunset stops at the altar in front of Celestia and opposite of Spike. She looks at him and smiles the most genuine smile she had ever given. “Before we continue with the ceremony, there is one piece of business that needs to be taken care of. One year ago today I made a deal that if Spike and Princess Twilight Sparkle believed Sunset Shimmer had changed she could stay in Equestria. Do the two of you believe she has changed?” “Yes, I wholeheartedly do.” Twilight said. “I do, I really really do.” Spike said. “Then I deem Sunset Shimmer a citizen of Equestria.” Celestia decreed. Everypony cheered for Sunset. Sunset in turn merely blushed. She was of course happy, but what was about to happen would be millions of times better. “Now, onto the wedding. We are here today to witness the holy matrimony of Sunset Shimmer and Prince Spike.” Celestia started. Spike winced at the use of his title but he knew it had to be said. Sunset just gave him a loving look. “Do you Prince Spike take Sunset Shimmer to be your lawfully wedded wife?” Celestia asked. “I do!” Spike said with enthusiasm. “And do you Sunset Shimmer take Prince Spike to be your lawfully wedded husband?” “I do!” Sunset said with the same enthusiasm. “Then by the power invested in me, I now pronounce you Dragon and Mare, you may kiss the bride.” Spike did just that. When their lips met they exchanged all their love for each other. The ponies around them cheered. The pair didn’t pay attention; they just kissed for what seemed an eternity. When they pulled apart, they began to cry a little and hugged. Then at the reception, they received much praise from their friends. Discord made it rain chocolate once and filled an empty bowl Sunset had set out just for the occasion. Discord also made a surprisingly good first toast, but it was Celestia’s that gained everypony’s attention. “I would also like to propose a toast to Equestria’s newest Princess!” Celestia stated. Everypony quickly whipped their heads to look at Sunset Shimmer. “Wait what?!” Sunset said; spitting the wine she was drinking. “You married Spike who is a prince, and just like Shining Armor is a prince by marriage you are a princess now.” Celestia said, raising her glass for the toast. Everypony cheered for Equestria’s new princess. Sunset decided to blow off that whole idea until a later date. It didn't matter; all that mattered was that she and Spike were now married. The reception was very nice from that point on. Everypony had a great time. When they were preparing to leave to go home, Twilight told them she was going to be in Canterlot so they had the house to themselves. They blushed, but were also very happy at that. As they were about to leave Sunset remembered something. “Oh, almost forgot.” Sunset said throwing the bouquet. To Sunset’s surprise, Rainbow actually caught it instead of Rarity. Rainbow then gave Applejack a very distinctive look. Sunset and Spike went home to consummate their marriage. They didn’t make it past the front door before they started making out. They then consummated their marriage many times, but this time Sunset did not cast a certain spell.