The Darkness Before Twilight

by Brony4Ever1992

First published

After her falling out with Princess Celestia, Sunset Shimmer fled through the mirror into a new universe. Sunset must adapt as she takes Canterlot High by the throat.

Not a clopflic

Sunset Shimmer was once the personal student of Princess Celestia. However, when she did not feel like she was getting what she wanted fast enough, she abandoned her studies and fled through the mirror portal into another universe. Now living in a world of bipedal creatures, Sunset must adapt to survive in this new world. As she does so, Sunset also enrolls in Canterlot High School where she battles to rise to the top of the hierarchy and maintain it.

Chapter 1

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Disclaimer: I don't own My Little Pony

It was a chilly Fall night in Canterlot City. The starry night above was only interrupted by glow of the street lights that lines the sidewalks. In the city suburbs, the night stars were much more visible thanks to a lack of light pollution. At Canterlot High it was another quiet night. However, this changed when the front of the Wondercolt statue began to glow. A pony - rather a person - came through the portal.

"My head." said Sunset Shimmer, on all fours

Sunset massaged her temples until she noticed something. She pulled her hooves back only to find two weird objects with five bony appendages sticking out.

"What are these?" asked Sunset.

Sunset quickly looked around gathering her senses.

"I' near a city. At least I don't have to live in the woods." said Sunset.

Sunset looked forward and noticed the large building in front of her.

"I wonder what this place is." mused Sunset.

Sunset galloped over on all fours to the building and climbed the stairs. She then attempted to open the door with her magic.

"Why is it not working?" asked Sunset.

Sunset looked at her reflection in the glass and noticed something missing.

"My horn! Where's my horn!" cried Sunset.

Sunset staggered back when she noticed a flier taped to the door. She skimmed over it.

Canterlot High is proud to host its annual Fall Formal. Willing students are needed to help setting up. Anybody interested in running for Princess of the Spring Fling come to my office.

"So...this is a school." mused Sunset.

Sunset looked at the bottom of the flier and saw two creatures that appeared to be dancing. What surprised Sunset was the fact they were not on all fours.

"These things are bipedal." said Sunset.

Sunset took a deep breath and raised her front limbs up. She staggered, but luckily the railing was there for her to hold onto.

"This feels too weird." thought Sunset.

Sunset shook her head and tapped on the door.

"Locked." sighed Sunset, "I'll have to return tomorrow."

Sunset turned and slowly walked down the stairs.

"This is easy." spat Sunset, almost tripping.

Sunset reached the bottom of the stairs and noticed something on the street: a battered 1987 gray Cadillac Cimarron. Sunset walked over to it.

"Is this some kind of horseless carriage?" asked Sunset.

"Hey!" cried a man.

Sunset turned around to see a portly security guard with a flashlight.

"Oh no." said Sunset.

The guard began running (as best he could) toward Sunset. Sunset turned and instinctively ran off. By the time the guard reached the spot Sunset had been standing, she was long gone.

"I...don't...get...paid...enough...for...this..." panted the guard.

Sunset made it a half mile before she had to stop to take a breath. She was amaze how well these creatures could run on only two legs. Sunset then made her way to the city where she more of those horseless carriages. Sunset staggered around like a fish out of water until she came to the Hay & Stay Inn. Sunset entered where she saw a clock which revealed it was almost ten o'clock at night. A woman in a white blouse with purple skin, black hair and green eyes stood behind the desk. A badge on blouse read "Elaine" on it.

"I need a room." said Sunset.

"Just a moment." replied Elaine.

Elaine turned to a machine next to her. She tapped on a panel of keys well looking at a screen in front of her.

"I'll have to figure out that...and a lot of other things." thought Sunset.

Elaine looked at her computer a little more before turning to Sunset.

"We've got a few rooms open." said Elaine.

"Great. I'll take one." replied Sunset.

"Well, it depends on your price range." revealed Elaine.

Sunset felt her heart drop into the pit of her stomach.

"I don't have any money." revealed Sunset, wincing.

Elaine winced herself displeased at this revelation.

"I am sorry, but we cannot help you." said Elaine.

Sunset left the hotel displease with the outcome. She wandered around Canterlot City for a while. Sunset reached the park and began to stroll through it. Sunset reached a fountain in the center of the park and saw benches surrounding it. Sunset decided, with no where else to go, to sit down.

"Well this is just great." said Sunset sarcastically.

Sunset let out an annoyed sigh.

"First I need to find somewhere to sleep." continued Sunset.

The former pony stopped and looked around.

"I could sleep here." mused Sunset.

A cold wind blew causing Sunset to shimmer.

"Screw that!" spat the former pony.

Sunset shook her head.

"l wonder if I could get into that school." mused Sunset.

Sunset taped her finger on the table.

"It would be difficult. I'm sure they'll dig into my background." noted Sunset.

Another chilly wind blew by.

"Damn Celestia!" cried Sunset angered.

Sunset rubbed her arms to keep herself warm.

"If that bitch just let me learn about the mirror from the start this wouldn't have happened." stated Sunset.

Sunset looked down at the bony appendages.

"How in Equestria can these things use these?" asked Sunset.

Sunset laid down on the bench, but she quickly sat back up.

"I can't sleep on this." sighed Sunset.

Sunset got back up.

"I'm have to find somewhere else to sleep." stated Sunset.

Sunset stood up and stretched.

"I have no clue where I'll go." noted Sunset.

"Hold it." came a masculine voice.

Twilight saw a man standing before her. He had wore white sneakers, blue jeans and a black jacket. He also had brown hair. The man suddenly pulled out a knife.

"Give me your money." demanded the man.

Sunset blinked realizing what was going on.

"I don't have any money." noted Sunset.

"You better not be lying!" snapped the thief.

Sunset turned her pocket inside out revealing they were empty.

"I'm not." replied Sunset.

The thief let out an exasperated sigh.

"Dammit!" snapped the man.

The man stopped for a moment then a smirk came across his face.

"Give me the jacket." demanded the thief.

Sunset grimaced at this.

"No." replied Sunset.

"You got some connection to it?" asked the thief.

"I'm not going to do anything for a lowlife piece of shit like you." answered Sunset.

The thief snarled at this.

"Okay, that means I can do it the hard way." said the thief, smirking.

The thief began closing in on Sunset.

"Shit." thought Sunset.

The thief began getting closer until he heard sirens closing in.

"Shit!" cried the thief.

The thief turned and ran off. Moments later, a police officer arrived.

"Are you okay?" asked the officer.

"Yeah." answered Sunset.

Sunset looked at the badge - Officer Shinning Armor.

"Why does that name sound familiar?" asked Sunset to herself.

Shinning Armor reached into his pocket and pulled out a notepad. He then pulled out a pencil from the binder.

"Okay, please tell me your name." requested Shinning.

"I'm Sunset Shimmer." answered the girl.

Shinning wrote this down.

"Okay, what where you doing here?" asked Shinning.

Sunset thought for a moment carefully considering what she'd say.

"I was out for a night stroll." answered the former pony.

Shinning wrote this down.

"I decided to rest when the guy approached me." continued Sunset.

Sunset thought for a moment, wondering how long he had been following her.

Please continue." requested Shinning.

"He pulled out a knife and demanded my money." said Sunset.

"How much did he take?" asked Shinning.

"I don't have money on me." answered Sunset.

"What happened next?" asked Shinning.

"He demanded my jacket." answered Sunset.

Shinning continued to write this down.

"That's when you arrived." arrived Sunset.

"Did he get anything?" asked Shinning.

"No." answered Sunset.

"I need a description of the suspect." said Shinning.

"He was a male with gray skin and brown hair. He had blue jeans and a black jacket." said Sunset.

"Okay, I need a way of contacting you. Tell me your phone number." said Shinning.

Sunset gulped for a moment.

"I don't have a phone." replied Sunset.

"Do yo have a residence?" asked Shinning, raising an eyebrow.

"No." answered Sunset.

Shinning winced as it all came together. He called his supervisor who came over. After talking, Shinning had Sunset get into the passenger seat of his car. He drove her several blocks coming up to a tall brick building. A sign reading"Canterlot City Group Home" with "Est. 1953" below it sat aboce the door. Shinning coaxed Sunset out of the car and they walked up the stairs. Shinning knocked on the door and after a minutes the door creaked.

"Hello." came soft voice.

An elderly woman opened the door. She had white hair, blue skin and wore a pink nightie.

"Are you the person in charge?" asked Shinning.

"Yes. My name is Melody." answered the woman.

"Sunset Shimmer here needs a place to stay." answered Shinning.

"I am fine on my own." scoffed Sunset.

"You're clearly not of age and we cannot have you on your own." said Shinning.

Sunset Shimmer rolled her eyes.

"She can stay here. We've got plenty of open rooms." said Melody.

Sunset tipped his hat then turned and left.

"Come inside dear." said Melody.

Sunset reluctantly followed her inside. A long hallway was in front of her with green carpet. A phone sat on the wall and a grandfather clock was next to it. A staircase sat to the side.

"Follow me dear." said Melody.

Sunset followed Melody up the stairs. They came to a long corridor with doors on each side. Melody kept going and Sunset followed her.

"I wonder how many of these things are there." thought Sunset.

As they walked, Melody stopped and pointed to the door on her right.

"That is the bathroom. The washer and drier are in the basement." said Melody.

Sunset rolled her eyes.

"Let's keep going." said Melody.

Melody led Sunset down the hallway

"What a crap hole." thought Sunset.

They kept going until they reached a door at the end of the corridor.

"This will be your room." said Melody.

Melody opened the door. The room was small with blue wallpaper. A small couch was directly to the left of the door. A small desk with an old computer was on the far left wall while a small closet sat across from the couch. Windows were lined up above this. Across from the desk was a bed.

"I hope this will work." said Melody.

Sunset walked into the middle of the room.

"I will let you settle in." said Melody.

Melody left shutting the door behind her.

"This will have to do." sighed Sunset.

Sunset walked over to the bed, kicked off her boots and tucked herself under the covers.

Chapter 2

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Sunset Shimmer had a hard night sleeping on her first night in the new world. A loud call awoke Sunset who stared at the ceiling. Finally she got up and headed downstairs. Sunset reached the dinning room where the others had gathered. Sunset looked around and noticed the room had brown wallpaper and two windows. She gathered toast and waffles. She poured a glass of milk to drink.

"Hello dear." said Melody.

Melody sat down next to Sunset. She had a bowl and a cup of tea.

"What are you eating?" asked Sunset curiously.

"It's Total cereal." answered Melody.

"Oh." replied Sunset uninterested.

"Would like some?" asked Melody.

"No." answered Sunset.

"Okay then." said Melody.

The two women ate in silence for a few minutes.

"Oh dear, will you will be attending Canterlot High?" asked Melody.

"I don't know." answered an annoyed Sunset.

"It's a good school. I especially loved the Wondercolts' Statue." said Melody.

"Do they have a 'Fall Formal' there?" asked Sunset.

"Yes." answered Melody.

"Actually, I do want to go there." said Sunset.

"Oh excellent." said Melody smiling.

"I just to figure out how." mused Sunset.

"Don't worry dear. I will help with that." said Melody.

"Thank you so much." said Sunset, with a fake smile.

"It's nothing." replied Melody.

"Old fool." thought Sunset.

"I remember going there when I was a lass." mused Melody warmly.

"Oh really." said Sunset, with mock interest.

"It was smaller than. It underwent was enlarged in the 1950s and underwent renovations twice." noted Melody.

"Oh really." replied Sunset, actually getting interested.

"In the late 1970s a crew came in to remove lead paint and asbestos. In the 1990s, the school reached it's current size when the school board decided to merge the middle high with Canterlot High." explained Melody.

"Dammit, I can't actually fall for this crap." thought Sunset.

"Anyway, I'm sure you'll love it there." said Melody, "It might not be Crystal Prep, but it's a very good school."

"What's Crystal Prep?" asked Sunset.

"A private academy in the north of the city." answered Melody.

Melody took a moment to sip on her tea.

"The city is divided into three segments. The Crystal Heights in the north is a wealthy and affluent neighborhood. Then there is the main part of the city. Finally, there is the Badlands in the south." explained Melody.

"There's a place called the Badlands in Equestria." noted Sunset to herself.

"The Badlands is home to the less fortunately citizens of the city. It's also home to criminals." noted Melody.

"What about Canterlot High?" asked Sunset, "It's outside the city and there are plenty of houses out there too."

"Those are the suburbs. They popped up in the 1950s with the Postwar economic boom." answered Melody.

"I see." said Sunset.

"Oh dear, don't let your food get cold." said Melody.

"Oh yeah." said Sunset.

Sunset ate her food and soon there was nothing left.

"I'm going to put my plate away." said Sunset.

"That's fine dear." replied Melody.

Sunset took her plate and cup then headed to the kitchen.

"I'll just drop these in sink. They'll get washed later." said Sunset.

Sunset placed the items in the sink, but froze as she did so.

"What am I doing?" asked Sunset.

Sunset staggered back.

"I'm going soft." said Sunset shaking.


Sunset ran back to her room and stayed there refusing to talk to anyone. Once she was sure there was nobody around, Sunset slipped out of her room and left the group home. Sunset found the library and studied there for hours learning all she could about this world.

"Man, I'm hungry." noted Sunset.

Sunset walked through the town until an intoxicating smell caught her nose.

"That's good." said Sunset.

Sunset followed the smell leading to a building with a red roof. A sign reading "Pizza Hut" identified the location.

"I need money." sighed Sunset.

"Are you hungry?" asked a masculine voice.

Sunset turned to see a boy standing next to her. He had a white shirt under a leather jacket, yellow skin and blue hair.

"Yeah, I don't have money." answered Sunset.

"I see." replied the boy.

The boy thought for a moment.

"Can you get any from your parents?" asked the boy.

"I live at that stupid group home." answered Sunset annoyed.

The boy thought for a moment.

"I recently started working and just got paid." noted the boy.

"Oh good for you." replied Sunset.

"I'll pay for you. If you want." offered the boy.

"The fool actually feels sympathy for me. I can use this." thought Sunset.

Sunset suppressed a smirk.

"That would be so great. Thank you so much." said Sunset, with fake joy.

"My name is Flash Sentry." said the boy.

"I'm Sunset Shimmer.

The two went inside and ordered. Flash got a small Meat Lover's Pizza Sunset got a small Veggie Lover's Pizza. After getting their food, the two sat down.

"This is good. Though, I can't believe these humans eat meat." thought Sunset.

"Is it good?" asked Flash.

"Yes. Thanks so much." answered Sunset, with a fake smile.

"So, can I ask about the group home?" asked Flash, uneasy.

"I recently came here from out of town." answered Sunset.

"Do you...have any family?" asked Flash, cautiously.

"No." answered Sunset.

Sunset thought for a moment.

"I don't feel comfortable talking about this." said Sunset.

"I understand." replied Flash.

"You fool." thought Sunset.

"So, are you attending Canterlot High?" asked Flash.

"Yes." answered Sunset.

"Oh great." chuckled Flash.

Flash blushed a bit.

"Is the idiot falling for me?" asked Sunset to herself.

Sunset ate another slice of pizza to hide her smirk.

"This is too easy." thought Sunset.

"So, I hope we run into each other." said Flash.

"So do I." agreed Sunset warmly.

Flash gulped nervously.

The two continued eating and finished their food.

"That was good." sighed Sunset filled.

"Yeah. Pizza Hut has good food." agreed Flash.

Flash pulled the money out of his wallet and paid the bill.

"Where are you working?" asked Sunset.

"I started at the local CVS. Of course, my dream is to be a musician." answered Flash.

"I'm sure you'll be great." said Sunset.

"Thanks." gulped Flash nervously.


The two left the Pizza Hut and split up. Sunset made her way through the city and returned to the group home. Sunset went inside and made her way to her room ignoring all the others kids her age as they watched her. Once she reached her room, Sunset took off her boots then laid down to take a nap. She slept for a bit, before a knock on the door woke her up.

"Hello dear. Can I come in?" asked Melody.

Sunset grumbled a bit to herself.

"Sure." answered Sunset.

Sunset sat up as Melody came in and sat down next to Sunset.

"I just want to let you know I have all the paperwork." said Melody.

"Great thanks." said Sunset.

"I really think you're going to like it there. It is a good school." said Melody warmly.

"I hope so." mused Sunset.

"It might not be as prestigious as an Ivy League school, it is still a fine school." said Melody.

"Sure." said Sunset, rolling her eyes.

"I have heard good things of the current Principal." Melody.

Melody thought for a moment.

"Oh curse my old age." sighed Melody.

The elderly lady thought for another moment before it came to her.

"Oh yes. It's Principal Celestia." said Melody.

Sunset froze upon hearing that name.

"Dear, are you okay?" asked Melody.

"I'm fine." answered Sunset.

The former pony shook her head.

"So her name is Celestia?" asked Sunset.

"Yes." answered Melody.

Melody scratched her head.

"If I remember correctly, there is no Vice Principal at the moment." said the elderly lady.

"There's no way she could have followed me." thought Sunset.

Sunset pondered what to do for a moment.

"So, she's a good principal then?" asked Sunset.

"From what I understand." answered Melody.

Sunset thought for a moment.

"Is she from around here?" asked the former pony.

"She graduated from Canterlot University." answered Melody.

"I assume that's a good school." replied Sunset.

"I might not be an Ivy League school, but it's still a fine institute." said Melody.

"Did you go there?" asked Sunset.

"I never went there myself." answered Melody.

"Could she have gone back and forth through the portal?" asked Sunset to herself.

"It appears she even graduated from Canterlot High." noted Melody.

"That's cool." said Sunset.

Sunset rattled her brain.

"I guess it is possible." thought Sunset.

"Are you okay?" asked Melody.

"I'm fine." answered Sunset.

"You seem to be pre-occupied." noted Melody.

"I'm just thinking about school." said Sunset quickly.

"Oh I understand." said Melody.

"She fell for it." sighed Sunset inwardly.

"I best be getting to bed soon." yawned Melody.

"Don't let me stop you." said Sunset.

"Okay dear." said Melody.

"You just head off to bed." replied Sunset.

Melody left closing the door behind her.

Sunset let out a long sigh.

"I though she'd never leave." said the girl.

The former walked back to her bed and laid back down.

"This is no way she could have followed me." said Sunset.

Sunset rubbed her chin thinking for a moment.

"Is it possible she's a doppelganger?" asked Sunset.

Sunset pondered this for a moment.

"If she is a doppelganger are there others? Do I have a doppelganger?" asked Sunset.

Sunset made up her mind.

"I'll find out Monday." said the former pony.

Chapter 3

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Disclaimer: I don't own My Little Pony

Sunday passed quickly as Sunset studied and felt like she knew all she needed to know about humans in order to survive. Monday morning she awoke and and had her breakfast. Melody had got her everything she needed for school. Sunset left and returned to the place it she first arrived. Sunset entered the school and was amazed by the school.

"Hey!" called a familiar voice.

Sunset looked over and saw the same security guard who chased her when she first arrived.

"What are you doing here?" asked the guard.

"I'm a student here." answered Sunset.

"Then why were you lurking around the other night?" asked the guard suspicious.

"I..." stammered Sunset.

"Sunset!" called another familiar voice.

Flash Sentry ran over and joined the two.

"What are you doing here?" asked Flash.

"I'm new here. I was looking for the Principal's office." answered Sunset.

"I'll take you." offered Flash.

"I'm not done-" began the guard.

The guard was unable to finish but, a rainbow haired girl went dribbling a soccer ball.

"Hey! No soccer in the building!" cried the guard.

The guard chased the rainbow haired girl.

"Let's go." said Flash.

"If this idiot is as soft as he seems, he could be useful." thought Sunset.

The two of them walked as Flash led her to the Principal's office.

"Here we are." said Flash.

"Thanks. You were so helpful." said Sunset, acting innocent.

Flash blushed and scratched the back of his head.

"You're going to be my pawn." thought Sunset.

Sunset walked over and knocked on the door.

"Who is it?" asked an all too familiar voice.

The former pony winced hearing the voice.

"My name is Sunset Shimmer. I am new." answered Sunset.

"Oh. Please come in." said Celestia.


Sunset sighed and entered the Principal's office. She saw the Principal sitting behind her desk.

"Please have a seat." said Celestia.

Sunset closed the door and sat in a chair in front of Celestia's desk.

"So Miss Shimmer, where did you come from?" asked Celestia.

The Principal opened a drawer and began flipping through files.

"Out of town." answered Sunset.

"I can't find any paperwork about you." noted Celestia.

"It must have gotten lost." offered Sunset quickly.

"This happens all the time. I've tried calling the office, but I get the runaround." said Celestia annoyed.

"She's just like the Princess." thought Sunset.

"Is there anything I can help you with?" asked Celestia.

"I'm fine." answered Sunset.

"Well, it's nice to met you." said Celestia.

"Um...likewise." replied Sunset, trying to keep up her front.

Suddenly, a bell rang.

"Oh, it's time for class. Don't want to be late on your first day." said Celestia, "I think you have Mr. Doodle."

"Nope." agreed Sunset.

Sunset got up and fast walked her way to the door.

"Miss Shimmer!" called Celestia.

Sunset stopped and turned.

"I hope you enjoy your time at Canterlot High." said Celestia.

"Sure." replied Sunset.


Sunset walked out of the Principal's office and shook her head. She noticed Flash was gone and figured he must have run off to class. Sunset found her class and grabbed herself a seat. The first half of the day seemed to go by quickly when lunch came. The kids made there way to the cafeteria.

"Let's see if they've got anything edible here." murmured Sunset.

Sunset looked at the options and saw that everything had meat - a taboo for a former pony. Regardless, not much looked too appetizing anyway.

"What ya have sweetheart?" asked Granny Smith.

"Do you have anything without meat?" asked Sunset.

"As, a vegetarian." replied Granny, "Unless you a vegan."

"Um...I don't know what that means." confessed Sunset.

Granny raised an eyebrow in surprise, but shrugged it off.

"Do ya drink milk?" asked Granny Smith.

"Yes." answered Sunset.

"Then ya ain't vegan." answered Granny.

Granny walked over to a few trays full of fruit and vegetables.

"That's more like it." sighed Sunset relieved.

Granny Smith filled her tray with food and Sunset began looking for a table.

"Sunset Shimmer! Over here!" called an annoying voice.

Sunset saw a group of five girls at a table. A pink girl was waving to her.

"Oh please." scoffed Sunset.

Sunset pointed her nose in the air and walked by the girls.

"Awe." sighed Pinkie, her hair deflating.

Apple Jack put her arm around Pinkie.

"It's okay Pinkie." said Apple Jack.

"I guess." sighed Pinkie.

Sunset continued walking until she heard a familiar voice call.

"Hey Sunset!" called Flash.

Sunset saw he was hearkening her over to an empty seat next to him.

"Let's see how much this fool cares for me." thought Sunset, suppressing a smirk.

Sunset sat down next Flash. He had a cheeseburger like most other kids.

"You can eat that?" asked Sunset surprised.

"Yeah. Most kids complain about the food, but it's not that bad." answered Flash.

"But, that cow was a living being." noted Sunset.

The former pony watched in almost horror as Flash chewed a bite of meat.

"The cows can't like being turned into food." mused Sunset.

"I never thought of that." said Flash, "I mean, it's not like they can talk to us."

"So cows are not sentient beings in this universe." thought Sunset.

"I guessed you where vegetarian. It's cool by me." said Flash.

"That's fine...I guess." replied Sunset.

The two continued to eat in silence.

"So, how do you like CHS?" asked Flash.

Sunset opened her mouth, but stopped and considered her words carefully.

"They're.....energetic." answered Sunset.

Sunset and Flash had their attention diverted to Pinkie who had put carrots up her nose.

"Imbecile." thought Sunset.

Sunset looked over to Flash who was chuckling.

"That's Pinkie Pie for you." said the guitarist.

"She always acts like that?" asked Sunset surprised.

"She's full of energy. I think it's a bit to much sugar." answered Flash jokingly.

Sunset forced a fake laugh at this.

"You're funny." said Sunset, flirtatiously.

"Um...thank." replied Flash blushing.

A small smirk came across the face of Sunset.

"I like you Flash. You're so...nice." said Sunset.

Sunset placed her hand over the hand of Flash who began to sweat.

"I think we should hang out." proposed Sunset.

Flash shook his head and gulped.

"That sounds great." said Flash, trying to keep his cool.

The two finished their meals at roughly the same time.

"I'll take your tray for you." offered Flash.

"Thank you so much." replied Sunset, beaming.

Flash took the trays and left.

"I've found my pawn all right." thought Sunset in a sinister manner.


Sunset left and continued to play schoolgirl throughout the rest of her day. School ended and Sunset began to leave, when Principal Celestia called her into her office. Sunset felt a bit worried when she entered the office.

"Please sit down." said Celestia calmly.

Sunset nodded and sat in a chair right in front of the desk.

"I first want to let you know that you are not in trouble." began Celestia.

"Then...why am I here?" asked Sunset.

"I wanted to see how your day went." answered Celestia.

A look of surprise came across the face of Sunset.

"I do this with all new students. I like to loo out for my pupils." explained Celestia.

Sunset thought for a moment.

"i did make a friend." stated Sunset.

"Oh excellent." said Celestia.

"It's Flash Sentry." noted Sunset.

"He's an fine student." replied Celestia approvingly.

A sudden knock on the door would interrupt the meeting.

"Principal Celestia. I have something for you." said a professional voice.

"Please come in." sighed Celestia.

The door opened and a dark skinned woman with blond hair entered.

"What do you have for me Miss Harshwhinny?" asked Celestia.

"A letter for you ended up in my mailbox." answered Miss Harshwhinny.

"I belief Derpy delivers the mail. I'll talk to hear." replied Celestia.

Ms. Harshwhinny handed the letter to Celestia and left.

"This will only take a moment." said Celestia.

Celetia opened the letter and began to read. Her facial expression changed to one of concern.

"What's wrong?" asked Sunset, with fake worry.

"Nothing." answered Celestia.

Celestia stopped and thought for a moment.

"I will have to cut this short. I am sorry." said Celestia.

"That's okay." replied Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer got up and left leaving Celestia alone in her office. Celestia placed her hands on her desk and looked down.

"My sister...you have returned." said Celestia uneasily.


Sunset left the school ignoring several people who tried to call her attention. Sunset momentarily considered using the bus, but she did not have the routes memorized down just yet. She walked and considered her situation the entire way. Once she got to the group home, Sunset sighed displeased by her situation. Sunset entered and shut the door behind her.

"Hopefully I can get to my room before the old hag hears me." thought Sunset.

Sunset tiptoed to the stairs and began walking up.

"Oh Sunset!" called Melody's voice from the kitchen.

"Damn." cursed Sunset softly.

Melody quickly walked out (as fast as she could) and reached Sunset.

"How was your first day?" asked Melody.

"Why are you asking me that?" asked Sunset.

"I want to see how your doing dear." answered Melody.

"How pathetic." thought Sunset.

The former pony rolled her eyes.

"It was fine." answered Sunset.

"Did you make any new friends?" asked Melody.

"One." answered Sunset.

"What is he like?" asked Melody.

"Nice." answered Sunset.

A smile came to the wrinkled face of Melody.

"That is great dear. Feel free to bring him by anytime." replied Melody.

"Yeah sure." replied Sunset, rolling her eyes.

"I am so happy for you." said the elderly woman.

Melody turned and walked off leaving Sunset feeling odd.

"That was nice of her." mused Sunset.

Sunset quickly shook her head.

"No. It's foolish of her. I will never go back." declared Sunset.

Chapter 4

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The ringing of her alarm meant the start of a new day for Sunset Shimmer. Sunset had slightly gotten used to her time at school, but it still felt odd. Sunset showered and got dressed still not fully used to her new bipedal body. She then headed to the kitchen where a very pleasant aroma greeted her.

"What's that smell?" asked Sunset.

Melody was at the stove.

"Good morning dear. I made pancakes from scratch." said Melody.

"Those do smell good." thought Sunset.

Melody served three pancakes onto a plate and put them on the table with silverware.

"Eat up or you'll be late." said Melody.

"Okay." agreed Sunset.

Sunset sat down and began to eat.

"How are they?" asked Melody.

The elderly woman sat down.

"Delicious." answered Sunset.

"Good to hear." replied Melody.

Sunset continued eating.

"How are you doing at school?" asked Melody.

Sunset choked a bit before swallowing the food in the mouth.

"Fine." answered Sunset bluntly.

"That's good." said Melody.

"Whatever." shrugged Sunset.

"Just know that I'm here if you need me." said Melody.

Sunset blinked and for a moment saw Celestia.

"It can't be." said Sunset shaken. Are you okay?" asked Melody.

"I got go. Thanks." replied Sunset.

"I understand." said Melody.


Sunset grabbed her things and ran off. As she made her way through Canterlot, the image of Celestia she saw continued to haunt her. No matter how hard she tried, Sunset found herself unable to shake the image. Finally, she arrived at Canterlot High. The first thing Sunset set her sights on was the portal.

"I will go back." muttered Sunset Shimmer.

"Hi!" cried a hyper-energetic voice.

Sunset cried in surprise.

"I'm Pinkie Pie! I've been planning a welcome to Canterlot High party since you arrived, but I didn't know anything about you! I tried to figure out what you'd like and even tried talking to friends! Then I found you didn't have friends so I'll be your friend..." rambled Pinkie.

Sunset used her hand to cover Pinkie's mouth.

"When I remove my hand, you will slow down and talk like a rational po...being." said Sunset.

Pinkie nodded in agreement.

"Okay." sighed Sunset.

Sunset removed her hand.

"Go." said Sunset.

Pinkie extended her hand.

"I'm Pinkie Pie." said the girl.

Sunset looked at Pinkie.

"I am Sunset Shimmer..." began Sunset.

"I know that silly." laughed Pinkie.

Sunset Shimmer scowled.

"You will remember by name." vowed Sunset.

"Okay Dokie Loki!" declared Pinkie.

Sunset Shimmer rolled her eyes.

"Whatever." muttered Sunset.

Sunset began walking away.

"Hey! You didn't shake my hand!" declared Pinkie.

Sunset sighed once again.

"Because I didn't want to." revealed Sunset.

"That's okay." shrugged Pinkie.

"Do you have a disorder?" asked Sunset annoyed.

"Nope." answered Pinkie.

"Leave me alone!" snapped Sunset.


Sunset stormed off leaving a deflated Pinkie Pie behind. The first half of the day passed by as slowly as possible. For Sunset Shimmer, these high school classes where things she covered under Celestia. At least she managed to impress the staff which she felt could be useful. Finally, lunchtime came and the students made their way into the cafeteria. Sunset straggled and decided to scout out the student body ready to make her move.

"Who to target first." thought Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer scanned the room before seeing a meek looking boy.

"What a wimp. Perfect." thought Sunset.

Sunset walked over to the boy.

"Oh hello." said the boy nervously.

"What's your name?" asked Sunset.

"Featherweight." answered the boy.

Featherweight gulped nervously.

"You seemed so stress." noted Sunset.

"Girls don't pay attention to me." explained Featherweight.

"I have a problem and I was hoping you'd help me." said Sunset.

"What's the problem?" asked Featherweight.

"I don't have lunch money." answered Sunset.

"That's terrible." gasped Featherweight.

Sunset did her best to suppress a smirk.

"You see, that's where you come in." said Sunset.

Featherweight seemed confused.

"I assume you have money." said Sunset.

"Oh, I get it." said Featherweight.

Featherweight dug into his pocket.

"I guess I could give you..." began Featherweight.

Before Featherweight could continue, Sunset was violently jerked aside.

"What gives?" asked Sunset annoyed.

Sunset found herself facing a dark skinned girl in a brown MA - 1 bomber jacket.

"I should ask you the same dweeb." answered the girl.

Sunset pulled her arm away.

"The name's Gilda. I'm the top of the food chain here." said Gilda.

Gilda eyeballed the girl.

"Are you new?" asked Gilda.

"Yes." answered Sunset.

Gilda flared her nostrils.

"Since you're new I can let you off with a warning." replied Gilda.

"I'm Sunset Shimmer and I don't need a warning.' said Sunset.

Gilda scowled at this.

"Don't pick a fight with Gilda." warned Featherweight.

"You should listen to him." said Gilda.

By now, the entire cafeteria had turned their attention to the ongoing situation.

"And if I don't?" asked Sunset.

Gilda laughed at this.

"Then I break your fucking face." answered Gilda coldly.

"I'm not afraid." said Sunset bluntly.

Before Gilda could act, a cyan girl with rainbow hair intervened.

"Yo Gilda, whatever this chick did isn't worth getting suspended over." said the girl.

Gilda thought for a moment.

"You're lucky Dash saved your ass. Next time, you'll learn your lesson." warned Gilda.

"Let's go." said Rainbow.

Rainbow Dash and Gilda walked away as things returned to normal.

"Looks like I've got competition to deal with." thought Sunset irked.


Sunset finished the rest of the school with a fake smile on her face. While this phony mask made it seem as was okay, in reality Sunset's demeanor was anything but chipper. Her run-in with Gilda was still on her mind and the fact she had this hurdle to jump annoyed her greatly. Sunset left school and headed back to her residence. As soon as she opened the door, a delicious smell hit Sunset.

"That smells good." admitted Sunset.

"Is that you deary?" asked Melody.

Sunset rolled her eyes.

"Yeah." answered Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer followed the smell to the kitchen where Melody stood at the stove.

"I just made oatmeal cookies." revealed Melody.

"You like to cook." mused Sunset.

"In my family, meals are a time to come together and be a family." explained Melody.

Sunset Shimmer felt her stomach grumble.

"Dammit, I was so caught up with Gilda that I forgot lunch." thought Sunset, angry with herself.

"Have some." offered Melody.

Melody served up several cookies on a plate.

"Careful, they're hot." warned Melody.

Sunset took one of the cookies and took a bit.

"These are good." admitted Sunset.

"That means a lot." replied Melody.

Sunset slouched in a chair and continued eating.

"Sunset, I can tell something is bothering you." said Melody.

Sunset groaned a bit hearing this.

"It's nothing." replied Sunset.

"I'm here if you need to talk." said Melody.

For some reason she couldn't explain, Sunset felt her resentment melt away.

"Fine." relented Sunset.

Melody sat down in a chair.

"At lunch, I tired to...make friends with another student." began Sunset.

Melody nodded.

"She bought it." thought Sunset pleased.

Confident, Sunset continued.

"Anyway, before I could a bully interrupted me." continued Sunset pouting.

"Oh deary." gasped Melody.

Sunset had to suppress a smirk.

"She harassed me for begin new." continued Sunset, with a phony sadness.

"I'm so sorry to hear that." replied Melody sympathetically.

"Luckily, her friend intervened." sighed Sunset.

"Did you tell the principal?" asked Melody.

"She threatened me." answered Sunset.

"I'll go with you." offered Melody.

"That's fine!" declared Sunset.

Melody frowned a bit.

"I can handle this on my own." said Sunset.

"I trust you." said Melody.

"Too easy." thought Sunset smugly.

Melody walked over to Sunset.

"I am really proud of how you've been doing." said Melody.

"What do you mean?" asked Sunset.

"Inside, there is a good person." answered Melody.

Sunset once again saw Princess Celestia.

"No!" cried Sunset.

Melody gasped in surprise.

"Are you feeling ill?" asked Melody worried.

"I'm fine. I'm going to my room." answered Sunset.

Sunset raced upstairs and threw herself onto her bed.

"Why in the Tartarus do I keep seeing her?" asked Sunset to herself bitterly.

Sunset tossed and turned.

"I ditched her for a reason! She was holding me back!" declared Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer rubbed her face.

"She was nice though." admitted Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer shook her head.

"So is Melody." mused Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer smirked a bit.

"She's a nice person and she's always trying to make me feel better." said Sunset.

Sunset shook her head.

"I cannot get soft!" exclaimed Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer sat up.

"I've got to ditch this dump." vowed Sunset.

Chapter 5

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Sunset Shimmer packed what few belongings she had. She had decided to find a new place of residences away from her current location. Sunset found her old diary and a feeling of uncertainty hit her. She quickly packed it before any doubt could creep in. Sunset then went down stairs to check if the coast was clear.

"Looks good." said Sunset.

Sunset was about to grab her belongings.

"Is that you dear?" asked a familiar voice.

A surprised Sunset popped her head into the dinning room to find Melody.

"I didn't know you where here." noted Sunset.

"Just tiding up a bit." said Melody.

"Of course." thought Sunset annoyed.

"What are you doing?" asked Melody.

"Just wandering around." answered Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer subconsciously walked over to the dinning room table.

"This old house is beautiful." cooed Melody.

"How did you come by this place?" asked Sunset curious.

"My husband and I rented this place in 1945 after the war." answered Melody.

"War." repeated Sunset surprised.

"My Phillip was in the Marines fighting the Japanese in the Pacific. I was a nurse and we met at a USO show in 1943. We got married after the war ended." explained Melody.

"That's sweet." admitted Sunset.

"I'm glad you think so." replied Melody happily.

"Where is your husband?" asked Sunset.

Melody's smile turned into a mournful frown.

"A heart attack took my dear Phillip years ago." answered Melody sadly.

"I'm so sorry." replied Sunset.

"It's quiet fine." said Melody.

Melody decided to change the subject.

"So, how are your classes going?" asked Melody.

"I'm not learning anything I didn't already know." answered Sunset flatly.

"You did strike me as a smart girl when we first met." said Melody.

"She knows brilliance when she meets it." thought Sunset cockily.

"I'm glad you're here." admitted Melody.

"Anyone would be glad to be in my presence." thought Sunset.

"I have a daughter, but she lives far away and isn't able to visit often." said Melody.

"That sucks." said Sunset.

"I don't have any friends or family nearby so I do get lonely at times." continued Melody.

"That would suck." thought Sunset.

"But, when you came here I felt rejuvenated when you arrived." revealed Melody.

"Really?" asked Sunset surprised.

"I felt like there was something special about you." answered Melody.

"Like the fact I should be an alicorn." muttered Sunset.

"What was that dear?" asked Melody.

"Nothing." answered Sunset.

"You've just brought a spark back into my life." said Melody.

"Wonderful." replied Sunset, with fake enthusiasm.

Melody yawned.

"It's time I get ready for bed." said Melody.

Melody and Sunset walked back upstairs only for Sunset to head back downstairs with her belongings moments later.

"Time to leave this dump." whispered Sunset.

Sunset stopped as she thought of what Melody had said.

"She did seem really happy to have me here." mused Sunset.

For a moment, Sunset thought of what Melody said only to shake her head.

"I cannot go soft. There's no going back." said Sunset.


Sunset slipped out and quietly shut the door behind her. Sunset walked away from the boarding house and would not look back. Sunset Shimmer would wander around until she finally came across an abandoned factory. Sunset noticed the gate was ajar and slipped into outside of the factory. Sunset reached the front door and slipped inside.

"This could work." mused Sunset.

Suddenly, a large man in a dirty trench coat popped out.

"Hello." said the man.

Sunset observed the man and noticed something seemed off.

"I haven't see you here." noted the man.

The man was twitching.

"Can you spared any money?" asked the man.

"No." answered Sunset.

The man scratched his arm.

"Maybe I could get do get some cash?" asked the man.

Sunset began feeling uncomfortable.

"No." answered Sunset firmly.

"Please." requested the man.

The man began getting closer to Sunset.

"Back off." demanded Sunset uncomfortable.

"Leave her alone!" cried a voice.

A woman walked forward. She had pink skin with blue hair. She wore a gold button up tube top, navy blue miniskirt, fishnets and black heels. She wore crimson red lipstick.

"Come on Jennifer, you know I ain't gonna hurt her." said the man.

"She doesn't have any money on her." stated Jennifer.

The surprised man turned his attention back to Sunset.

"That true?" asked the man.

"Yeah." answered Sunset.

The man walked away as Jennifer approached Sunset.

"He wasn't going to hurt you. He's not a bad guy." said Jennifer.

"Could have fooled me." huffed Sunset.

As he noted, my name is Jennifer.

Jennifer extended her hand, but withdrew it when it became clear Sunset wouldn't shake it.

"What's your name?" asked Jennifer.

"Sunset Shimmer." answered Sunset.

"Let's go somewhere we can get privacy." proposed Jennifer.

Jennifer led a cautious Sunset up a staircase to an abandoned corridor.

"What was this place?" asked Sunset.

"Used to be a garment manufacturer until the recession." answered Jennifer.

Jennifer popped out a door opened revealing a small room with a pillow and blankets on the floor.

"Welcome to my haven." said Jennifer.

The two entered and Jennifer shut the door.

"You really live her." said Sunset dumbfounded.

"Yup." confirmed Jennifer, with a hint of sadness.

"Canterlot always did a good job of hiding homelessness." thought Sunset.

"So, what brings you here?" asked Jennifer.

"I left my group home. I was suffocating." answered Sunset disgusted.

"What I would have given for that." mused Jennifer.

Sunset noticed a collection of burned spoons.

"You've found my dirty little secret." sighed Jennifer sadly.

Jennifer showed a number of track marks on her arms.

"I'm a heroin addict." said Jennifer.

Sunset became uncomfortable.

"I feel in with a bad crowd, dropped out of school and got addicted. I wish I could take it back." explained Jennifer hurting.

Sunset backed up, only to knock over a box full of condoms.

"There's my other secret." said Jennifer, tears in her eyes.

"You're a prostitute." realized Sunset.

"Gotta make a living somehow." sighed Jennifer.

"Have you thought about not selling your body?" asked Sunset bluntly.

"When you apply for a job there's a background check." answered Jennifer, "When employers see arrests for 'prostitution' and 'drug use'..."

"They reject you." said Sunset.

"The only way I can get money is by prostituting. It's a vicious cycle." said Jennifer sadly.

"What about your family?" asked Sunset.

"I came from a broken home. That's the whole reason I fell in with a bad crowd." answered Jennifer.

"Shit." muttered Sunset weakly.

"Enough about me. Tell me about you." requested Jennifer.

Sunset tensed up a bit.

"I had a teacher who I used to be close to, but we had a falling out." explained Sunset.

"Sorry to hear that." said Jennifer.

"I didn't need her." spat Sunset.

"Well, you can crash here with me if you want." offered Jennifer.

"If I don't want to get beaten or raped that might be a good idea." thought Sunset.

Sunset nodded her head.

"I'll do it." answered Sunset.

"I can make some room." said Jennifer.

Jennifer began moving things.

"So...what was this room anyway?" asked Sunset.

"Used to be someone's office." answered Jennifer.

Jennifer finished.

"Cool." said Sunset.

The two laid down.

"Night." said Jennifer warmly.

"Night." replied Sunset dully.


Sunset Shimmer did not have a comfortable night sleep. She considered going back, but decided it was for the best. She was getting soft and couldn't let that happen. She awoke the next morning groggy and doubtful, but convinced herself it was the right choice. Luckily, there was a YMCA nearby where she showered. Sunset then headed to Canterlot High. She went to the cafeteria to take advantage of the school breakfast program. She grabbed toast, an apple and milk. Sunset then sat at a table.

"Okay, this can work." muttered Sunset.

Sunset tore off a large bite of toast and ate it.

"Sure, I'm surrounded by bums and my roommate is a junkie hooker..." continued Sunset.

Sunset trailed off, but she shook her head.

"No. I've made my decision." said Sunset.

"Hey." said a male voice.

Sunset was surprised to see a boy with blue hair standing next to her.

"I don't mean to interrupt you..." began the boy.

"But, you want something." mused Sunset suspiciously.

"I was wondering if I could sit here." said the boy.

"He could be useful." thought Sunset.

The former unicorn quickly changed her demeanor.

"Sure." said Sunset chipper.

The boy sat down.

"My name is Sunset Shimmer." noted the girl.

"I'm Flash Sentry." replied the boy.

"Sorry if I came off as rude, I just don't want people taking advantage of me." said Sunset sadly.

"Sorry to hear that's happened." said Flash sadly.

Sunset had to suppress a devious smirk.

"I guess I'm just to nice." sighed Sunset.

"If you ask me that could never be bad." said Flash.

"Thanks." smiled Sunset.

The two ate for a few moments while talking idly.

"So, I had a bad run-in with that Gilda." noted Sunset.

"I heard." replied Flash, "She's not a nice person."

"Why is she like that?" asked Sunset.

"I don't know." answered Flash.

Sunset mumbled to herself.

"I think she needs a friend." stated Flash.

Sunset Shimmer rolled her eyes.

"Other than Rainbow Dash that is." added Flash.

"I take it she was the one who intervened the other day." said Sunset.

"Yup, they got way back." confirmed Flash.

Flash finished his breakfast first.

"I gotta go. It was nice talking to you." said Flash.

"You too." replied Sunset, with a fake smiled.

Sunset kept her fake smiled until Flash left.

"He was useless." sighed Sunset.

Suddenly, another student stormed over to him.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie saw you talking to Flash Sentry." said the girl annoyed.

"We where just talking." noted Sunset annoyed.

"Don't give Trixie that! Trixie knows you're trying to steal one of the most coveted boys here!" accused Trixie.

"I seriously wasn't." said Sunset.

"Trixie has warned you." stated Trixie.

With that, Trixie turned and marched off.

"Maybe that idiot can be of use." muttered Sunset sinister.

Chapter 6

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Sunset Shimmer again awoke groggily. She had stayed up late the night before working on her plan to seduce Flash Sentry. However, she still needed to prepare herself and eat breakfast. An exhausted Jennifer stirred as Sunset got herself dressed.

"Hey Sunset, can ya keep it down?" asked Jennifer.

"It's already morning." answered Sunset bluntly.

"I got into in at four." noted Jennifer.

"Really?" asked Sunset surprised.

"I was...working." answered Jennifer.

"Cheap whore." thought Sunset.

Jennifer yawned and stretched.

"Well I'm up now." sighed Jennifer.

Sunset felt a ping of guilt.

"It's fine. I'll nap latter." shrugged Jennifer.

"Good." said Sunset.

"So, what's up?" asked Jennifer.

"No." answered Sunset.

Sunset thought for a moment.

"Actually, I have made friends with a boy at school." noted Sunset.

"Oh. Tell. Tell." requested Jennifer eargerly.

"His name is Flash." began Sunset.

"What's he like?" asked Jennifer.

"We just chatted a bit." answered Sunset.

"Oh, well I hope things go well." said Jennifer.

"Actually, I was hoping you could give me pointers." requested Sunset.

"No problem." said Jennifer.

Jennifer thought for a moment.

"Well, you could drop hints." proposed Jennifer.

"What kind of hints?" asked Sunset.

"Love letters." answered Jennifer.

"What would I write?" asked Sunset.

"Romantic poetry." proposed Jennifer.

"That's a good start." said Sunset.

"Try giving him gift." continued Jennifer.

"Like chocolates." guessed Sunset.

"Yeah." confirmed Jennifer.

"I don't have much money." noted Sunset.

"Same." sighed Jennifer.

Jennifer chuckled sadly.

"Anyway, there are other ways." said Jennifer.

"I should fine a way to make money." mused Sunset.

"That can be easier said than done." warned Jennifer.

"I'm not going sell my body like a whore." thought Sunset.

"Honestly, the thing I suggest is just be honest." stated Jennifer.

"You mean, just tell him?" asked Sunset.

"Yes." answered Jennifer.

"Blunt, but it is effective." said Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer finished preparing.

"Thanks Jennifer. You where really helpful." said Sunset.

"No problem." yawned Jennifer.

Jennifer laid back down.

"I'm going back to sleep. See ya latter." said Jennifer.

Sunset rolled her eyes and left.

"That whore is useful." muttered Sunset.


A cocky Sunset Shimmer left the abandoned factory. She washed up at the nearby YMCA then had breakfast at school. Flash didn't sit and eat with her this morning. True to her word, Trixie kept spying on Sunset as she ate breakfast. The first half of the day passed as Sunset awaited for lunch. Once lunch arrived, Sunset went to the cafeteria and got her food. She looked around and saw Flash. Sunset walked over to him with her lunch.

"Um...hello Flash." said Sunset meekly.

"Oh hey." replied Flash warmly.

"I was wondering...can I eat with you?" asked Sunset.

"Sure." answered Flash.

Sunset smirked to himself as she sat down. They then both ate.

"So...how are you doing?" asked Flash.

"Okay." answered Sunset.

"That's good." replied Flash happily.

"Such an easy pawn." thought Sunset.

"Have you had any run-ins with Gilda?" asked Flash.

"No." answered Sunset.

Sunset noticed Trixie glaring at her.

"She won't give up." muttered Sunset.

Flash glanced over and noticed Trixie.

"Don't mind Trixie. She's full of herself." said Flash.

"I noticed." replied Sunset.

Sunset noticed Trixie talking to two younger boys.

"Those are her lackeys Snips and Snails." revealed Flash.

"I need to knock her down a peg." thought Sunset.

Sunset then decided to focus.

"So...what do you like to do?" asked Sunset nervously.

"I play guitar." answered Flash.

"Maybe you could teach me." proposed Sunset.

"That'd be awesome." agreed Flash.

Sunset put on a fake smile.

"I'm glad I met you Flash." said Sunset.

"Me too." agreed Flash.

Sunset pretended to be nervous.

"I was wondering..." began Sunset.

"What?" asked Flash.

Sunset was "unable" to speak.

"It's nothing. Forget it." answered Sunset quickly.

Sunset looked away, hiding her grin.

"It's cool." replied Flash.

Sunset took a deep breath.

"I was wondering if we could be friends." said Sunset.

Flash smiled at this.

"That'd be awesome." said Flash.

Sunset smiled, but not for the reason Flash thought.

"I'm so relieved to hear that." sighed Sunset.

"Did you have a lot of friends before coming here?" asked Flash.

"No." answered Sunset honestly.

"I'm happily be your friend." said Flash.

"Thank you." said Sunset.

Sunset peeked over at Trixie who was still watching her.

"She wants a show I'll give her one." thought Sunset.

Sunset pretended to stand up, but she "tripped" and fell into Flash. The other students began to murmur.

"Are you okay?" asked Flash.

Sunset rubbed the back of her head.

"I just tripped." answered Sunset.

Sunset looked at Trixie who was livid.

"Hope you liked that bitch." thought Sunset.


Rumors quickly spread about Sunset and Flash. This was exactly what Sunset had wanted. These "humans" where not that different from ponies. Sunset finished the day and left the school. She wandered around for a bit before returning to the abandoned factory. The other homeless people there where going about their business. Sunset returned to her residence where Jennifer was.

"Hey Sunset." said Jennifer warmly.

Sunset put on a fake smile.

"Hello." said Sunset.

Sunset sat in an old chair.

"How was your day?" asked Jennifer.

"Good." answered Sunset.

"How did things go with that boy?" asked Jennifer curious.

"Fine." answered Sunset happily.

"Details." requested Sunset.

"We sat at lunch and talked. That's it." said Sunset.

"Awe." sighed Jennifer disappointed.

"I did trip into him." noted Sunset.

Jennifer had a Cheshire Cat smile.

"Oh knock it of." requested Sunset playing.

"I didn't expect you to jump him in the cafeteria." said Jennifer.

"I tripped." stated Sunset.

"Sure." replied Jennifer sarcastically.

"She's no better than those idiots at school." thought Sunset disgusted.

"Well, I'm sure you didn't exactly object." noted Jennifer.

"True." admitted Sunset.

Jennifer grabbed a red purse.

"I'm sure you'll win him." said Jennifer.

Jennifer pulled out a small rectangular box.

"I know it." added Jennifer.

"What's that?" asked Sunset.

"My cigarettes." answered Jennifer.

Jennifer pulled a cigarette out and put it into her mouth.

"Do you mind?" asked Jennifer.

Jennifer pulled out her lighter.

"No." answered Sunset.

As Jennifer lit her cigarette, Sunset looked at the carton.

"Parliament." noted Sunset.

Jennifer took a drag of her cigarette.

"They're my favorite brand." shrugged Jennifer.

Jennifer took another drag of her cigarette.

"Can I try?" asked Sunset.

"I'm not sure you should." answered Jennifer.

"Come on!" demanded Sunset.

Jennifer relented and gave Sunset her cigarette.

"I'm never smoked on of these for now." noted Sunset.

"Put it between your fingers, put it up to your lips and take a drag." explained Jennifer.

Sunset did so and choked.

"Oh shit." coughed Sunset.

"It sucks the first time, but you get used to it." said Jennifer.

Sunset gave Jennifer the cigarette back.

"Just to let you know, I'm going out working tonight." revealed Jennifer.

"I'll be fine on my own." said Sunset.

Jennifer took a drag of her cigarette.

"Just try not to get killed." muttered Sunset.

Jennifer giggled and pulled a kitchen knife out of her purse.

"It's not much, but it works." said Jennifer.

"At least your prepared." mused Sunset.


Hours passed by. Sunset stayed at the factory while Jennifer departed to walk the streets. Over at Canterlot High, one room had the lights on. Principal Celestia was tackling the mountain of paperwork she was facing. This was one part of the job she hated. Celestia stopped and shook her wrist trying to work out a cramp. Her phone rang and Celestia, grateful for the distraction, answered.

"Hello." said Celestia.

("Hello.") said a familiar female voice gently.

A stunned Celestia needed a moment to compose herself.

"Is that really you?" asked Celestia.

("Indeed it is.") answered the mystery woman.

"It's been a long time." noted Celestia.

("Indeed.") agreed the mystery woman.

"I'm so glad to hear you again." said Celestia.

("Same, but I do have a reason to call.") revealed the mystery woman.

"What is it?" asked Celestia worried.

("I will be coming to Canterlot High School.") answered the mystery woman.

"Really?" asked Celestia surprised.

("It's already been decided.") answered the mystery woman.

"Well...I look forward to seeing you." said Celestia nervously.

("I wanted to tell you in advanced. Goodbye.") said the mystery woman.

Both women hung up. Celestia got out of her chair and looked at the moon in the sky.

"So...we shall be reunited my sister." mused Celestia.

Chapter 7

View Online

It was a seemingly normal day at Canterlot High. Outside, Rainbow was playing with her soccer ball dribbling it on her knees while Fluttershy was petting Angel Bunny. Applejack and Rarity came up.

"Well the gangs almost all here." noted Applejack.

"Yeah." agreed Rainbow, "Now we just have to wait for..."

"Wait for who?" asked Pinkie.

The others jumped as Pinkie seemed to materialize out of thin air.

"Where did you come from?" asked Rainbow.

"My house silly." answered Pinkie.

The group rolled their eyes.

"So, who are you waiting for?" asked Pinkie.

"Well we where waiting for you Miss Pie." answered Rarity.

"I'm here now!" declared Pinkie.

Pinkie pulled out cupcakes.

"I made these this morning." noted Pinkie.

The others took the cupcakes.

"It's a new recipe." added Pinkie.

The others tried the cupcakes.

"My. These are delicious." said Rarity.

"They're awesome!" declared Rainbow.

"These are the best dang cupcakes I've ever had!" cried Applejack.

"I like them too." said Fluttershy.

"Thanks." said Pinkie grateful.

"Oh that reminds me, are you still going to help me pass out flyers for the animal shelter Rainbow?" asked Fluttershy.

"Sure. I don't back out of a promise." answered Rainbow.

"Thank you." replied Fluttershy happily.

"hey, it ain't too bad." said Rainbow.

"Have you considered a pet?" asked Fluttershy hopeful.

Rainbow scratched her head.

"Maybe." answered Rainbow.

Fluttershy smiled hopeful.

"Well, I still I hope you shall be helping me as well." said Rarity.

"Oh yeah." confirmed Applejack.

"How can Applejack help you?" asked Rainbow confused.

Applejack shot Rainbow an offended glare.

"Applejack will be assisting me with new design ideas." revealed Rarity.

"She wants to base 'em on my farm clothes." added Applejack.

"The country bumpkin look is?" asked Rainbow snickering.

Applejack shot Rainbow another offended glare.

"Wow! Rainbow is really good at sticking her foot in her mouth!" exclaimed Pinkie.

"The country look is in and I requested help from Applejack as she is an expert there." explained Rarity.

"We're still on for the sleepover at my house on Friday?" asked Pinkie.

The others all agreed.

"I can't wait!" declared Pinkie, seemingly standing on thin air.

As the others questioned how Pinkie could defy all laws of physics, Sunset Shimmer approached the school.

"Hi Sunset!" cried Pinkie.

Sunset silently marched by bumping Pinkie a she did so.

"Hey!" cried Pinkie.

Sunset ignored her and went inside.

"We someone's a Grumpy Gus." said Pinkie.

The school bell rang.

"We better get going." noted Applejack.

"Relax, there's an assembly before class." shrugged Rainbow.


All of the Canterlot student body gathered in gymnasium/auditorium. Rainbow, Applejack, Pinkie, Rarity and Fluttershy sat up close. Sunset Shimmer did the opposite sitting in the back. Sunset spotted Gilda nearby and the two shared bitter glances. Trixie at a row in front of Sunset with Snips and Snails. Flash was up closer to the stage with his band mate. Finally, Principal Celestia took the stage. Sunset was still uncomfortable dealing with another Celestia.

"As you know, our illustrious Vice Principal of many years retired after last semester and the position was left vacant when this year began." started Celestia.

Celestia gulped concerned.

"I've never seen my Celestia this tense." thought Sunset.

"However, that position has been filled." revealed Celestia.

This led to gossiping among the students.

"I would like to introduce you to our new Vice Principal..." began Celestia.

A tall woman walked out onto stage.

"My sister Luna!" declared Celestia.

"Sister!" cried Sunset surprised.

Sunset heard Trixie giggle at this

"It is a pleasure to meet all of you." began Luna nervously.

"If this Celestia has a sister than my Celestia should have a sister." thought Sunset.

"As Princess Celestia noted, I am her younger sister and now your Vice Principal." continued Luna.

"Of course that bitch Celestia wouldn't tell me she has a sister." thought Sunset angrily.

Luna carried out for a few minutes talking about herself and how happy she was to be here.

"In conclusion, I hope to get to know you all and that this is the beginning of a great relationship between staff and students." concluded Luna.

"Nepotism is alive and well." muttered Sunset.

The assembly ended and everyone dispersed.

"It's so cool that Principal Celestia's sister is our Vice Principal!" declared Pinkie.

"Always good to see family working together." agreed Applejack.

"Just don't throw her a party Pinkie." warned Rarity.

"Yeah. Last time you threw a party for a teacher you got a week of detention." laughed Rainbow.

Meanwhile, Sunset was rubbing her chin.

"I need to do some research on Luna." decided Sunset.


The students left and began their classes. Sunset Shimmer was still thinking about Vice Principal Luna...the sister she didn't know existed.

She was still a tad bitter with Celestia for not telling her she had a sister. Finally, the study hall period arrived. Sunset went to the library. Sunset saw the computer and sat down. Luckily, Bulk Biceps sat near by and went online to search for protein shakes. Copying what he did, Sunset was able to get online.

"Okay, that was bad. I should be able to get the hang of this computer thing." thought Sunset.

Sunset managed to find the school's home page.

"Find out about our new Vice Principal." read Sunset.

Cheerliee would shush Sunset who rolled her eyes.

"Let's see what we have." said Sunset.

Sunset scrolled through the section.

"There is nothing here." noted Sunset annoyed.

The mouse cursor was left over Luna's face.

"Dammit." said Sunset bitterly.

Sunset hit the mouse with her hand causing it to click.

"What the?" asked Sunset.

Sunset looked and noticed a list of actions popped up.

"So these computers have more secrets." thought Sunset.

Sunset looked at the actions and one caught her eye.

"Search for image." said Sunset interested.

Sunset did this and found more pictures.

"Okay, let's see what we've got." said Sunset.

Sunset looked at the links.

"A MyStable account." noted Sunset.

Sunset scratched her temple in confusion.

"What the hay is MyStable?" asked Sunset.

Sunset briefly looked through MyStable and was disappointed by the lack of an equine nature.

"Well that sucks." sighed Sunset.

Sunset returned to her search results finding something she recognized.

"A mug shot." cooed Sunset.

Sunset followed the link and found what she was looking for.

"So our new Vice Principal has multiple arrests." mused Sunset.

Sunset read the wrap sheet.

"Possession of marijuana. Underage drinking. Public intoxication. Driving While Intoxicated. Noise Disturbances. Resisting without violence." read Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer chuckled to herself.

"Well, our Vice Principal has a naughty side." said Sunset.

Sunset returned to the search results and found something that caught her eye. It was an image of Luna, but she was dressed like a punk rocker wearing a leather jacket complete with spikes, skull earrings and black makeup. She was holding a black and white guitar.

"The Dis - harmonies." read Sunset.

Sunset laughed to herself.

"What a stupid name." said Sunset.

Sunset noticed the members had their stage names under their pictures.

"Nightmare Moon: guitar." said Sunset.

Sunset shrugged her shoulders.

"Could have been worse." admitted Sunset.

Sunset rubbed her chin.

"I'm guessing this rebellious streak is why she's seemingly appearing out of the blue." deduced Sunset.

A thought then came to Sunset.

"If I can play them against each other, then I can run this place." said Sunset confidently.

The bell rang signaling the end of study hall. The students all left except for Sunset.

"Miss Shimmer, you need to go to class." noted Cheerliee.

Sunset closed out the browser.

"Sorry, I was so enthralled with what I was researching." replied Sunset innocently.

"Must have been interesting." mused Cheerliee.

"Oh it was." confirmed Sunset.


Sunset departed and went about the rest of her school day. Once school ended, she made sure to swipe a pair of disposable gloves from the science lab. That night, she swiped a half empty bottle of cheap rum from one of the homeless men living in the factory. She also grabbed a used piece of newspaper and used it as a makeshift cork. The next day, Sunset put the disposable gloves on then slipped into Vice Principal Luna's office and put the bottle in the desk taking the newspaper away. Sunset then casually made her way to the office of Principal Celestia ditching the gloves in trash can. Once she arrived, Sunset knocked.

"Come in." said Celestia.

Sunset shook her head and entered.

"Hello Miss Shimmer, what may I do for you?" asked Celestia.

"I hate to be a bother, but I went to talk with Vice Principal Luna and welcome her. But, she wasn't there." began Sunset.

"She is likely out doing something." shrugged Celestia.

"I figured, but that is not why I'm here." replied Sunset.

"Please continue." requested Celestia intrigued.

"I noticed a bottle of funny smelling. I think it was alcohol." said Sunset, with fake worry.

Celestia muttered to herself and stood up.

"Show me." requested Celestia.

Sunset led Celestia to Luna's office and pointed to the desk drawer.

"There ma'am." said Sunset.

Celestia opened the draw and pulled the bottle out.

"Rum." said Celestia sadly.

As if on cue, Luna entered her office.

"Here we go." thought Sunset giddy.

Celestia held the bottle of rum.

"What is this?" asked Celestia accusingly.

"I do not know." answered Luna.

"Don't lie to me." said Celestia hurt.

"Sister, I seriously do not know." replied Luna.

"Sunset, please excuse us." said Celestia.

"Yes ma'am." agreed Sunset.

Sunset left proud of her actions, but did not realize five other students had overheard.

"Damn. She's only been VP for one day and she's getting shitfaced on the job." mused Rainbow.

"Could please try and be less crass?" asked Rarity.

"Not really." answered Rainbow.

"Um guys, Vice Principal Luna talked with us earlier." noted Fluttershy.

"Yeah. She wanted to know about the pet shelter flyer you handed out." said Pinkie.

"I didn't smell alcohol on her breath." said Fluttershy.

"Come to think of it, neither did I." realized Rarity.

"Yeah. And she wasn't wobbling around or acting drunk at all." noted Pinkie.

"You don't think someone set her up." proposed Applejack concerned.

"I say it's more likely she's a drunk." shrugged Rainbow.

"Still. She's deserves a chance to defend herself." said Rarity.

The other agreed to this.

Chapter 8

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It had been a day since Sunset planted a bottle of rum in Luna's desk. The former unicorn was proud of herself and the seeds of doubt she had planted. However, five other students gathered outside the school before classes.

"I simply cannot believe Vice Principal Luna was drinking during work yesterday." began Rarity

"There does seem to be reasonable doubt." agreed Applejack.

"But, what can we do?" asked Fluttershy softly.

"Then we prove her innocence." answered Rainbow.

"Like an old fashion film noir!" gasped Rarity excited.

"I guess." replied Rainbow surprised.

Rarity became giddy with anticipation.

"Don't go harvesting your apples before they're ripe." warned Applejack.

"Huh?" asked Pinkie confused.

"We have to prove she's innocent." answered Fluttershy.

"Easier said than done." sighed Applejack.

"Have no fear!" declared Rarity.

Out of nowhere, Rarity had suddenly was wearing a trench coat.

"You look like you stepped out of a 40s detective film." noted Rainbow.

"Exactly." confirmed Rarity proudly.

"I don't understand how that will help." noted Fluttershy.

"Isn't it obvious?" asked Pinkie.

"Not really." answered Applejack flatly.

"Rarity is gonna investigate like a 40s detective!" declared Rarity.

"Pinkie is correct." confirmed Rarity.

"You ain't exactly Dick Tracey, but if you can find the scoundrel who framed Vice Principal Luna then more power to ya." said Applejack.

"Let's get going!" declared Rainbow.

"Follow me!" cried Rarity.


The girls eagerly set off and began to interrogate students. However, the process proved less exciting and more fruitful than they thought. Applejack was interrogating Sandalwood, Fluttershy was interrogating Apple Blossom, Rainbow was interrogating Baton Switch, Pinkie was interrogating Ringo and Rarity was interrogating Watermelody when the bell for first class rang. As of these proved fruitless so the bell made no difference. Once study hall period rolled around, the group got a possible tip from Rose Heart. They found the rocker clique sitting together and talking about music then they approached.

"Hello Cherry Crash, we need to talk." began Rarity.

"What about?" asked Cherry Crash.

"You know exactly what I'm talking about!" answered Rarity.

"Not really." replied Cherry Crash confused.

"The dame is playing dumb. I'm gonna need a new course of action." thought Rarity.

The fashionista rubbed her chin.

"I don't know if you've heard about what happened to Vice Principal Luna..." began Rarity.

"Oh yeah. Principal Celestia found booze in her desk." said Cherry Crash.

"We have doubt it was her's." revealed Applejack.

"She was a rocker in the day." noted Cherry Crush.

"Really?" asked Pinkie surprised.

"Oh yeah. We knew her as Nightmare Moon before she became our VP." answered Cherry Crush.

"Cherry, we got a little birdy telling us you where seen at the liquor store the other day." noted Rarity.

"What of it?" asked Cherry Crush.

"We think it was planted." answered Rarity coldly.

"Are you accusing me?!" asked Cherry Crush offended.

"Maybe we are and maybe we're not." answered Rarity.

Cherry Crush pulled out a flyer and headed it to the group.

"Our band is having a show Saturday. We went to the liquor store hoping he would allow us to hang the flyers outside." explained Cherry Crush.

"What did he say?" asked Pinkie interested.

"No." answered Cherry flatly.

"That's too bad." said Fluttershy.

"I saw Cloudy Kicks with a bottle in her bag." noted Vanhallan.


The five left and began searching for Cloudy Kicks. Knowing she was an athlete, they searched in the gymnasium hoping to find her practicing. However, she wasn't there. Rainbow began asking the other athletes she knew if they had seen Cloudy. Finally, they where led outside to the field. There was Cloudy Kick practicing her soccer skills. Rainbow couldn't help but admit she was good. Cloudy had just retrieved her ball after a goal when she saw the group approaching her.

"Think fast!" called Cloudy Kicks.

Cloudy Kicks kicked the ball right toward the group.

"Git it!" called Rainbow.

Rainbow deflected the ball off her chest and then dribbled it with her knees.

"Rainbow, we ain't here to show off." noted Applejack annoyed.

Rainbow sighed and kicked the ball back to Cloudy.

"What are you here for?" asked Cloudy.

"Don't act so innocent toots!" demanded Rarity.

"What are you talking about?" asked Cloudy confused.

"We think someone planted the rum bottle in Vice Principal Luna's office." answered Pinkie.

"And we where told you had a bottle." added Applejack.

"You think I did it?!" asked Cloudy offended.

"Oh just spill the beans dollface. We know it was you." replied Rarity.

"Um, unless you can prove it wasn't." noted Fluttershy meekly.

"I can." said Cloudy.

Cloudy led the group to her nearby duffel bag.

"Here's what I had." said Cloudy.

Cloudy pulled a small plastic bottle of blue liquid out of her bag.

"Well that sure ain't rum." noted Applejack.

"It's Gatorade." stated Rainbow.

"Glacial Freeze." clarified Cloudy, "The label pealed off."

"Sorry for accusing ya." said Applejack.

Cloudy thought for a moment.

"It's fine, but not that you mention it I overheard Cloudy Winds was saying he headed that direction." replied Cloudy. w


The group thanked Cloudy Kicks for the tip and left. They next began searching for Cloudy Winds. It was almost time for the next class so they knew time was limited. They where lead to the library by several students. They arrived and spotted Cloudy Winds at the computer. They saw a notebook open next to him.

"Hello Cloudy." began Rarity.

Cloudy stopped and looked at the group.

"Um, hello." said Cloudy Winds confused.

"What are you looking at?" asked Rarity, in a seductive tone.

"Oh for Pete's sake." muttered Applejack.

"He's probably looking up how to frame someone." accused Rainbow.

"I'm doing research for my history class." noted Cloudy Winds.

"We'll see." replied Rainbow.

Rainbow forcefully jumped in looking at the screen.

"Conquistadors." mused Rainbow.

Applejack pulled Rainbow back by her collar.

"The Spanish soldiers who conquered the Americas." noted Applejack.

"We're learning about them too." added Fluttershy.

"Now, you wouldn't lie to us." began Rarity seductively.

Rarity gently ran her right hand down the cheek of Cloudy Winds.

"I..." stammered Cloudy Winds.

Rarity sat in Cloudy Winds' lap.

"Would you?" asked Rarity innocently.

Cloudy Winds blushed wildly.

"No." answered Cloudy Winds nervously.

"Now, we believe someone framed Vice Principal Luna and we heard you where headed to her office." said Rarity.

Cloudy Winds shook his head.

"I didn't frame her." said Cloudy.

"Then who did?" asked Rarity firmly.

"I don't know. I was looking for Whiz Kid." answered Cloudy Winds.


The five went to find Whiz Kid, but they trip was cut short by the bell. They five had to go to their classes. Once school let out, they went off to find Whiz Kid. They found him and would question Whiz Kid. They six of them then raced off. Sunset Shimmer noticed them and that they where headed to Principal's office. She followed them. Once she arrived, Sunset noticed they had gathered Principal Luna and Vice Principal Luna.

"Um, is something going on?" asked Sunset confused.

"I don't know." answered Celestia.

"We have an eyewitness who can prove Vice Principal Luna was framed!" declared Rarity.

Sunset Shimmer's heart skipped a beat.

"That's a big accusation." noted Principal Celestia.

"Go ahead Whiz Kid." said Applejack.

"I was headed to see Principal Celestia on the day in question." began Whiz Kid.

"Why?" asked Sunset worried.

"Micro Chips and I noted several ways to improve the performance of the school computers." answered Whiz Kid.

"Nerd." coughed Rainbow.

Applejack elbowed Rainbow in the ribs.

"Why didn't you see me?" asked Principal Celestia unsure.

"I heard you and Vice Principal Luna talking so I didn't want to disturb you." answered Whiz Kid.

"That was very nice of you." said Fluttershy.

"I walked passed Vice Principal Luna's office and noticed a gloved hand on her desk." continued Whiz Kid.

"Shit." thought Sunset worried.

"I thought it was a janitor so I didn't think anything of it." continued Whiz Kid.

"We believe that was the person who framed you." said Rarity.

"Likely Gilda." muttered Applejack.

"Hey! Gilda wouldn't do anything like that!" declared Rainbow.

"Regardless, we believe this creates doubt." said Rarity.

"It could have been a janitor." noted Sunset.

"I would have had no reason to have a janitor in my office." noted Luna.

"I want to believe you are innocent." said Celestia.

"But, why don't you?" asked Luna.

Celestia didn't answer.

"Of course." answered Luna.

"What's going on between ya?" asked Applejack.

"Ask the center of the universe." huffed Luna.

"Luna felt like I overshadowed her and went through a rebellious period." answered Celestia.

"Is that why you became Nightmare Moon?" asked Pinkie.

"Yeah. It was a...metal band." answered Luna embarrassed.

"Not to mention your run-ins with the police." noted Celestia.

"I went down a bad path! I know!" declared Luna.

"Sister..." began Celestia surprised.

"I've tried to change my life around! Just give me another chance!" cried Luna.

Celestia clenched her fists.

"I'm sorry Luna." said Celestia softly.

"I never meant to hurt you. I feel shitty for all the hell I caused you." said Luna hurting.

"You don't know how much I missed having you around." said Celestia emotional.

"We used to do everything together." said Luna.

"Do you remember the time in high school when we took that weekend vacation to the country?" asked Celestia.

"Oh yes. Everything went so bad." answered Luna.

"It rained all the time." began Celestia.

"We both got eaten alive by mosquitoes." continued Luna.

"And bears ate all of our food!" cried the sisters in unison.

Celestia and Luna both laughed before hugging.

"I missed you so much!" cried Celestia.

"As did I sister!" cried Luna.

The two sisters hugged and cried for several minutes before breaking.

"I'm sorry for everything Luna. If you say that rum wasn't yours then I believe you." said Celestia.

"And I am sorry for all the things I did. I promise not to go back." said Luna.

"I want to thank you girls and Whiz Kid for fighting for Luna." said Celestia.

"And Sunset Shimmer, I am not angry. I full understand why you thought it was mine." added Luna.


The rest of the day flew by. News of Luna's innocence spread. Conventional wisdom was that Gilda was responsible, but she denied it and there was no way to tie her to it. Sunset laid low as nobody consider she was the true mastermind. Once classes ended, Sunset stormed off. She returned the abandoned factory and marched inside. Once she returned to her residences, Sunset slammed the door. Jennifer was quick to notice something was wrong.

"What's wrong?" asked Jennifer.

"A bunch of girls screwed my plans." answered Sunset angrily.

"Is this related to your boyfriend?" asked Jennifer.

"He's not my boyfriend and no." answered Sunset annoyed.

"Then what?" asked Jennifer.

Sunset thought what to say exactly.

"I got a gift for the new Vice Principal and these girls ruined my plan." explained Sunset bitterly.

"Sorry to hear that." replied Jennifer sympathetically.

"It's fine." said Sunset.

Chapter 9

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It was the morning of after Luna was cleared. Sunset fumed while Jennifer walked the streets. The next morning, Sunset stirred awake and the bitter memories of what happened returned.

"Oh shit." muttered Sunset.

"Are you still bitter about yesterday?" asked Jennifer.

"Yeah." answered Sunset.

Sunset got up and stretched.

"Can I give you a word of advice." requested Jennifer.

"Whatever." replied Sunset.

"Let it go." said Jennifer.

"You've got to be kidding me." said Sunset.

"I am being honest." replied Jennifer.

"Please enlighten me." said Sunset.

"It's never good to hold a grudge." said Jennifer.

Sunset rolled her eyes.

"I get it. I felt the same way." said Jennifer.

Sunset merely snorted.

"If I held grudges against everyone who turned me down because of my past I'd be bitter all the freaking time." explained Jennifer.

Sunset rubbed her chin.

"You might have a point." admitted Sunset.

Sunset smirked.

"Why get angry when that will just hold me back." thought Sunset.

"That's the spirit!" declared Jennifer.

"She has no clue." mumbled Sunset.

"Did you say something?" asked Jennifer.

"No." answered Sunset firmly.

Jennifer pulled a cigarette out and lit it.

"I hope for the best." said Jennifer.

Jennifer took a drag of her cigarette.

"I'd hate for you to end up here the rest of your life." added Jennifer.

Sunset walked over to Jennifer.

"Trust me, I won't." promised Sunset.

Sunset picked up the cigarette pack and looked at it.

"Oh man, look at these warnings." said Sunset.

"Yeah. Smoking isn't exactly the best for you." admitted Jennifer.

"Then quit." said Sunset.

"Not interested in it." shrugged Jennifer.

"Why?" asked Sunset surprised.

"Because I don't want to." answered Jennifer.

"You're not making sense." stated Sunset.

"I know smoking isn't exactly healthy, but I choose to anyway. It's taking responsibility for your actions." explained Jennifer.

"Taking responsibility for you actions." repeated Sunset.

Jennifer looked at her fishnet stockings and noted a run.

"I'll be right back." said Jennifer.

Jennifer walked out leaving Sunset alone.

"Taking responsibility for actions...like betraying Celestia.

Sunset shook her head.

"No. I am not looking back!" declared Sunset.

Sunset still felt doubt creeping in.

"I can't doubt myself." stated Sunset.

Jennifer returned.

"Where you talking to someone?" asked Jennifer.

"No." answered Sunset bluntly.


Sunset immediately departed the abandoned factory. She cleaned up at the YMCA then had breakfast at school. The first half of the day went by at too slow of a pace for her liking. She knew most of what was being taught. The only subject that interested was science due to the difference in this world's science. Finally, lunch came and Sunset went to the cafeteria. Once she got her food, Sunset walked over to her target.

"Flash, mind if I sit with you?" asked Sunset meekly.

"No problem." answered Flash.

"Too easy." thought Sunset.

Sunset sat down next to Flash.

"So...anything happening?" asked Sunset.

"My band and I have a gig coming up." answered Flash.

"I'd love to go." replied Sunset.

"No problem." said Flash happily.

"Maybe you could teach me to play guitar." said Sunset.

"No problem." replied Flash.

Sunset noticed Flash was blushing.

"Oh man. This idiot is making things too easy." thought Sunset arrogantly.

Sunset took a moment to plan her next move.

"So...things are going well around here." noted Sunset.

"Aside from what Gilda did." mused Flash.

"What's her deal anyway?" asked Sunset curious.

"She's been a bully since elementary school." answered Flash.

"Do you know why?" asked Sunset.

"Rainbow Dash would know." answered Flash.

"Yeah. I did notice that." replied Sunset.

"They've been friends since Kindergarten." revealed Flash.

Sunset shook her head.

"It's just so sad to see her sink to such a low." said Sunset.

"Yeah." agreed Flash sadly.

Sunset rubbed her chin.

"What can you tell me about Trixie?" asked Sunset.

"She's got an ego, but harmless." answered Flash.

"Well, you where right about her ego." muttered Sunset.

Flash couldn't help but agree.

"The best thing to do is ignore her." said Flash.

"Easier said than done." replied Sunset flatly.

"Yeah." agreed Flash reluctantly.

"Why is she like this?" asked Sunset curious.

Flash leaned it.

"Rumor is her father isn't around much." confessed Flash.

Flash sat back down.

"Maybe I shouldn't have said that." mused Flash guilty.

"Wow. That must be so hard." said Sunset, with faux sympathy.

"Yeah." said Flash.

"Can you tell me more." requested Sunset.

"I don't know." said Flash unsure.

"Please." begged Sunset.

Sunset gave Flash with puppy dog eyes which broke him.

"Her father is apparently a has been stage magician whose usually off preforming." revealed Flash.

"Wow." gasped Sunset,.

"I've heard he also is an adultery." added Flash.

"That's fun to know." whispered Sunset.

"Did you say something?" asked Flash.

"No." answered Sunset.

Flash shrugged his shoulders.

"I gotta keep that tidbit about Trixie tucked away." thought Sunset.

Sunset rubbed her arm.

"So.,.is there anything you're doing later?" asked Sunset.

Sunset did her best to be convincing.

"I'm going to practice with my band." answered Flash.

Sunset sighed, but regained herself.

"I understand." said Sunset.

"I'm sorry your disappointed." said Flash, feeling bad.

"It's okay." said Sunset flatly.

"I guess I could blow them off." mused Flash.

"Oh Flash. You don't have to." said Sunset.

"It's okay." said Flash.

"Thank you so much." replied Sunset.

"It's fine." said Flash blushing.

"This idiot is making it too easy." thought Sunset.

"I'll swing by your place." said Flash.

"Oh no. My place is far too small." said Sunset worried.

"Does your family live in an apartment?" asked Flash.

"It's complicated." answered Sunset.

"We can go to my place." shrugged Flash.

"Thanks." said Sunset warmly.

Flash blushed again.

"You're so great." said Sunset.

The two finished eating their lunch.

"So...I'll wait for you after school." said Sunset.

"Sure." said Flash.

Flash then left.

"Fool." whispered Sunset.


Sunset left and things went normal. By the time things classes ended, Sunset let out a sigh of relief. She waited outside and waved over Flash. Flash was exiting with his band mates and winced. He quickly explained to them that he was going out with Sunset. Sunset couldn't hear what was said, but the word "Yoko" came up confusing Sunset. Flash taught Sunset guitar at his place and Sunset made sure not to come on strong. Once they finished, Sunset returned to the abandoned factory.

"Hey Sunset." said Jennifer.

Jennifer getting ready to walk the street.

"You're getting all dolled up." noted Sunset.

Jennifer shook her head with a smile.

"Cheap whore." thought Sunset.

Sunset threw her bag down.

"How was school?" asked Jennifer.

"Fine." answered Sunset.

Sunset smirked a bit.

"You know that boy I was telling you about?" asked Sunset.

"That Flash boy!" gasped Jennifer.

"Yup." confirmed Sunset.

"Tell me." said Jennifer excited.

"He taught me to play guitar." revealed Sunset.

"Way to go." said Jennifer happily.

"It was his house." added Sunset.

"Luckily dog!" laughed Jennifer.

"You're the bitch." thought Sunset.

"So, what happened?" asked Jennifer.

"Nothing. It was just guitar lessons." answered Sunset.

"I get it. Take it easy." mused Jennifer.

"Exactly." said Sunset.

"Well, congratulations still." shrugged Jennifer.

"Thanks." replied Sunset.

Sunset smirked, finding this almost too easy.

"Anyway, I'm doing okay fitting in." said Sunset.

"But, didn't you tell me about students bothering you?" asked Jennifer concerned.

"We talked about two of them." answered Sunset.

"Which ones?" asked Jennifer.

"The bully and the egotist." answered Sunset.

"Well that's good." replied Jennifer.

"Yeah. I got some...good words of encouragement." confirmed Sunset.

Jennifer didn't seem to notice Sunset choosing her words.

"I gotta go." said Jennifer.

"Selling your body like the cheap whore you are." thought Sunset.

Jennifer left and Sunset sat on the desk.

"This is too easy." cooed Sunset confidently.

Chapter 10

View Online

It was a new morning in Canterlot City. Sunset Shimmer awoke and prepared herself for school She showered at the YMCA and then went to school. After eating her breakfast, Sunset left the cafeteria when she bumped into another student.

"Hello Sunset Shimmer!" cried Pinkie.

Sunset nearly jumped out of her boots.

"Don't do that!" demanded Sunset.

"Sorry." replied Pinkie.

Sunset rolled her eyes.

"What do you want?" asked Sunset.

Fluttershy walked over.

"Um..." began Fluttershy.

"I wanted to know if you signed up." answered Pinkie.

Before she could ask, Fluttershy softly cleared her throat.

"I..." began Fluttershy softly.

"Hold one a second." said Sunset.

Sunset turned her attention to Fluttershy.

"What do you want?" asked Sunset annoyed.

"I was just wondering if you'd be interested in the helping at the shelter." answered Fluttershy.

The timid girl slowly backed up.

"But, you're busy so I'll..." started Fluttershy.

"Fluttershee, right?" asked Sunset.

'Um, it's Fluttershy." answered Fluttershy weekly.

"I didn't hear that." said Sunset.

"Her name is Fluttershy." said Pinkie.

"Thanks." replied Sunset, hiding her annoyance.

"I'm Pinkie Pie." said Pinkie.

A white girl walked over to them.

"Now, I hate to interrupt you. However, I wish to know what you what color you want for the streamers." said Rarity.

"Oh great. We've got the hyperactive annoyance, the wimp afraid of her shadow and vapid idiot." thought Sunset.

Two girls walked over looked eye to eye.

"Whatca doing?" asked Pinkie.

"Staring contest." answered Rainbow.

"Ohh! Can I join?" asked Pinkie.

"No." answered Rainbow.

In answering Pinkie, Rainbow inadvertently blinked.

"Yeehaw! Easy as pickin' eggs from a chicken!" declared Applejack.

"Oh come on! Pinkie screwed me! That shouldn't count! I demand a do over!" cried Rainbow.

"You lost." said Applejack.

"Rainbow dash does not lose!" exclaimed Rainbow.

"Now we have the egomaniac and the inbreed hick." thought Sunset.

The farmer turned her attention to Sunset.

"Howdy, you must be the new girl. I'm Applejack." said AJ.

"And I'm Rainbow Dash." added Rainbow.

"Nice to meet you." replied Applejack.

"So, where did you come from?" asked Rainbow.

"I went to a private school." answered Sunset.

"Ooh! Fancy!" cried Pinkie.

"Was it Crystal Prep?" asked Rainbow suspicious.

"No. it was...out of town." answered Sunset.

"What brings ya here?" asked Applejack.

"I had a falling out with my teacher." answered Sunset.

"What happened?" asked Pinkie interested.

"She was holding me back." answered Sunset.

"So...you can to public school?" asked Rainbow confused.

"Yeah." answered Sunset.

"I must say darling, that is a lovely jacket." said Rarity.

"It's a close possesion of mine." said Sunset.

"I must say it is." said Rarity.

Sunset decided to wrap this up.

"Look, I need to get to class." said Sunset.

"Well, I came over to see if you wanted to sign up for the Fall Formal." said Pinkie.

Pinkie pointed to a poster.

"What's that?" asked Sunset.

"It's a humongous celebration in the gym! There'll be dancing and music snakes!" answered Pinkie joyously.

"Then at the end we crown a princess." added Fluttershy.

"What did you say?!" asked Sunset.

"The Fall Formal ends with a lucky girl being elected Princess of the Fall Formal." answered Rarity.

"Princess. What I should have been." muttered Sunset.

Sunset walked over to the poster.

"Princess Sunset Shimmer." whispered Sunset.

Sunset turned around.

"Where do I sign up?" asked Sunset.

"Right here." answered Pinkie.

Pinkie held out the clipboard and Sunset signed her name.

"Maybe I should try darlings. It would be lovely to be crowned princess." said Rarity.

Rarity signed her name.

"Tres magnifique!" declared Rarity.

Sunset clenched her fists.

"See you at the formal." said Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer walked away.

"I'll crush that bitch." said Sunset.


Sunset walked away. The rest of the morning seemed to drag by as Sunset focused on the Fall Formal. Finally, lunchtime rolled around and the students of Canterlot High School went to the cafeteria to eat. Sunset decided exactly what she wanted to. Sunset grabbed her tray of food and made her way to the table where Flash Sentry was.

"Um Flash, can I join you?" asked Sunset.

"Sure." answered Flash.

Sunset sat down and they began eating.

"So, can you tell me a bit about this Fall Formal." requested Sunset.

"What do you want to know?" asked Flash.

"I signed up for princess." answered Sunset.

"Good for you!" declared Flash.

"Thanks, but I am nervous." replied Sunset.

"You can do it." said Flash.

"What does it take to win?" asked Sunset.

"This is my first year here." answered Flash.

Sunset mentally kicked herself for forgetting this.

"But, all it is is a popularity contest." added Flash.

"So, how do I get popular?" asked Sunset.

"You gotta be yourself and people will like you." answered Flash.

"I need something more than that." thought Sunset annoyed.

"I'll vote for you and I am sure my friends will." offered Flash.

Sunset put on a fake smile.

"That is so nice of you." said Sunset.

"Just don't be upset if you do lose." warned Flash

"I plan to win." said Sunset confidently.

Flash smiled at this.

"I will warn you, there'll be probably stiff competition." said Flash.

As if on cue, another girl marched over.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie agrees!" declared Trixie.

Sunset rolled her eyes.

"Yeah!" cried Snails.

"Go Trixie!" cried Snips.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie shall be Queen of the Fall Formal!" declared Trixie.

"Don't you mean princess?" asked Flash.

"That title is too menial for Trixie." answered Trixie.

"There's not guarantee you'll win." noted Flash.

Trixie scoffed at this.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie knows everybody loves her!" exclaimed Trixie.

Trixie was met with silence.

"Sounds like you might have been mistaken." stated Sunset.

Sunset did her best to to her hide the fact being snarky.

"Trixie is not worried." said Trixie.

Trixie put her hands on her hips.

"Trixie is born to win." said Trixie.

"Ruling is my birth right." thought Sunset.

Trixie turned around.

"Trixie is warning you - drop out to avoid being embarrassed." said Trixie.

Trixie walked away with Snips and Snails praising her.

"Man, her ego is unbelievable." said Flash.

"Well, she does have dumb and dumber blowing smoke up her ass." muttered Sunset.

"I believe you can win." said Flash.

"Thanks." said Sunset.

Sunset took a bit of her salad.

"I will win." thought Sunset confidently.

Sunset finished her food and put her tray away. She began walking away from the cafeteria when she was suddenly dragged into a cloest.

"Hey Shitset." said Gilda.

Gilda was standing with her arms crossed and a cigarette in her mouth.

"What do you want?" asked Sunset.

"I need to finish what I started earlier." answered Gilda.

Gilda punched Sunset in the stomach.

"Oh." groaned Sunset.

Sunset dropped to her knees in pain.

"Doesn't feel too good." said Gilda.

Gilda grabbed Sunset by the collar and lifted her up.

"You think you can fuck with me and get away?" asked Gilda.

Gilda punched Sunset in the face.

"Did that hurt?" asked Gilda mocking.

Gilda headbutted Sunset.

"Ahh!" cried Sunset.

Gilda laughed as she enjoyed Sunset's pain.

"What is your problem?" asked Sunset.

Gilda again punched Sunset in the face.

"You don't fucking talk back to me!" declared Gilda.

Sunset moaned in pain.

"I run this fucking school." said Gilda.

"Not much longer." mumbled Sunset.

"What was that?" asked Gilda angrily.

"I said you can eat me." answered Sunset.

Gilda furiously punched Sunset in the face dropping her to her hands and knees.

"Know your place." said Gilda.

"It'll be my place soon." replied Sunset.


Gilda kicked Sunset in the kidney and left. Sunset departed and went to the bathroom. She managed to avoid any major bruising somehow and was able to escape the rest of the day. Once school ended, Sunset gratefully departed. She made her way through the city stewing over her day. First, Trixie and then Gilda. Sunset returned to the factory and went to her "room" where Jennifer was.

"I know that look. Rough day." mused Jennifer.

"Don't ask." said Sunset annoyed.

"Was it those two girls: the bull and the egomanic?" asked Jennifer.

"I said don't ask." said Sunset aggressively.

"I'll take that as a yes." said Jennifer.

Sunset sat down.

"Did you tell someone?" asked Jennifer.

"That won't do shit." answered Sunset.

"I get where you're coming from." admitted Jennifer.

Jennifer shrugged her shoulders.

"Hell, maybe you should get revenge on them." joked Jennifer.

Sunset thought for a moment.

"I have to get ready." said Jennifer.

Jennifer left the room.

"Revenge isn't a bad idea." decided Sunset.

Chapter 11

View Online

It was a new morning as the crisp Autumn air overtook the city. Sunset had woken up, showered, changed and went to Canterlot High. Sunset grabbed her breakfast and looked around for a group. Seeing them, she walked over to their table.

"Um, mind if I join you?" asked Sunset.

"Sure!" declared Pinkie.

"It ain't problem with me." said Applejack.

"Whatever." shrugged Rainbow.

"Fine with me darling." said Rarity.

"I guess it's okay." said Fluttershy.

Sunset sat down next with the five.

"So, how are you adjusting to our little school?" asked Rarity.

"Fine." answered Sunset.

"Oh! I still owe you a Welcome to Canterlot High Party!" cried Pinkie.

"That's quiet alright." replied Sunset.

"Some people don't like loud parties." noted Fluttershy.

Pinkie sighed accepting this.

"If ya need any help, look to us Sugarcube." said Applejack.

"Like I'll need help." thought Sunset.

The group finished eating with Sunset staying mostly quiet.

"Welp, we better get goin'." said Applejack.

The five got up.

"Um Rainbow, can we talk?" asked Sunset.

"Sure." answered Rainbow.

Rainbow sat down.

"I'll catch up." said Rainbow.

"See you darling." said Rarity.

The others left.

"What's up?" asked Rainbow.

"I was hoping to talk about Gilda." answered Rainbow.

"Don't tell me she was giving you crap again." sighed Rainbow.

"She dragged me into a closet was being rude." said Sunset.

"At least she wasn't violent." said Rainbow.

"Well..." began Sunset.

"Dammit." replied Rainbow frustrated.

"I don't want to make this a big deal." said Sunset.

"I'll talk to her." offered Rainbow.

"Please don't." replied Rainbow.

"Are you afraid she'll come after you?" asked Rainbow.

"Yeah." answered Sunset.

Rainbow rubbed her face.

"She wasn't always like this." noted Rainbow.

"Tell me more." requested Sunset.

"When I first met her Gilda was more on the shy side." revealed Rainbow.

"Like Fluttershy?" asked Sunset surprised.

"Yeah." confirmed Rainbow.

"I just can't pitcher it." said Sunset.

"Yeah. I can understand." shrugged Rainbow.

"So, what happened?" asked Sunset.

"I'm not totally sure." answered Rainbow.

"Fuck." thought Sunset annoyed.

Rainbow shrugged her shoulders.

"Sorry." shrugged Rainbow.

"That's fine." replied Sunset.

"It sucks Gilda got like this." said Rainbow.

Sunset rubbed her chin.

"Has anything embarrassing ever happened to her?" asked Sunset

Rainbow raised her eyebrow.

"Something like that could cause her to become more aggressive." said Sunset.

Rainbow thought about it.

"Nothing I can recall." answered Rainbow.

"Of course." muttered Sunset.

"Do you think she's hiding something?" asked Rainbow concerned.

"Could be." answered Sunset.

"Oh dammit." sighed Rainbow.

Rainbow Dash sadly shook her head.

"Gilda never talks about her emotions." noted Rainbow.

"Yeah. That seems like her." mumbled Sunset.

"Great, now I'm all worried and junk." sighed Rainbow.

"Not to mention being useless." thought Sunset.

"I can try and keep Gilda off your back." said Rainbow.

"How?" asked Sunset unset.

"I'll talk with her." answered Rainbow.

"Then she'll come for me." said Sunset uneasy.

"I won't use your name." promised Rainbow.

"Thanks." said Sunset, with a fake smile.

"No problem." shrugged Rainbow.

Suddenly, the bell rang.

"Well we gotta get going." noted Rainbow.

Rainbow got up and began walking away.

"That was worthless." sighed Sunset.


Sunset Shimmer returned to class and the hours dragged by. Finally, lunch came and Sunset was relieved. Sunset Shimmer stood in line and got her usual vegetarian meal. She then left and began headed for a table. Sunset noticed Pinkie waving over and pretended to head that way. Sunset then saw Flash who waved to her. Sunset gave a faux apologetic glance to Pinkie then sat down with Flash.

"So, how's your day going?" asked Flash nervously.

"Okay." answered Sunset.

Sunset took a bite of her food.

"What an idiot." thought Sunset.

"What's wrong?" asked Flash worried.

"I had an encounter with Gilda." answered Sunset.

"I know what that means." sighed Flash.

"I guess Gilda has a reputation for being...violent." guessed Sunset.

Flash winced at this.

"I've heard she gets physical." admitted Flash.

"A few punches." revealed Sunset.

"Sorry to hear that." said Flash sadly.

"Not surprising." shrugged Sunset.

"Did you tell anyone?" asked Flash.

"It wouldn't do any good." answered Sunset.

"If you're worried about people believing you then you're aren't alone." said Flash.

"I assumed I wasn't the first victim." admitted Sunset.

"In eighth grade, she was suspended almost as much as she was in class." replied Flash.

"Well, I might need your help." said Sunset.

"With what?" asked Flash.

"I want to talk to Snips and Snails." answered Sunset.

'Why?" asked Flash.

"Try and figure out what Trixie's problem is." answered Sunset.

"Why do you need me?" asked Flash.

"To make sure Trixie doesn't get in my way." answered Sunset.

Flash nodded his head.

"No problem." said Flash.

"Such a good puppet." thought Sunset.


Sunset walked off. The next classes dragged by even more as Sunset struggled to focus even more. Sunset Shimmer had no idea how she would get through this. Finally, the free period came and Sunset could not be more relieved. She and Flash walked looking for Trixie. Finally, she found her in the auditorium with Snips and Snails.

"Now, I just need to get Trixie distracted." said Sunset.

"No problem." replied Flash warmly.

Flash walked off as Sunset smirked.

"He makes it too easy." said Sunset.

Flash walked over.

"What can the Great and Powerful Trixie do for you?" asked Trixie.

"I was wondering if you could teach me some tricks." answered Flash.

"These are not mere tricks, they are prestidigitation." stated Trixie arrogantly.

"Okay. Teach me that." requested Flash.

"Trixie could do that." mused Trixie, "But what is in it for her?"

"I can pay you." offered Flash.

"That works." said Trixie.

"How about we go behind the stage...so nobody steals your moves." said Flash.

"Trixie agrees." replied Trixie.

The two went behind the stage leaving Snips and Snails.

"Um, what do we do now?" asked Snails.

"Don't know." answered Snips.

"Hey guys." said Sunset.

Sunset walked over.

"Hey Sunset." said Snips and Snails.

"I was just in the area and I decided to talk to you." said Sunset.

Snips and Snails shrugged accepting this.

"So, how did you met Trixie?" asked Sunset.

"We saw her performing in middle school and she was great." answered Snips.

"Yeah. We started doing what she said and got to hang around her." revealed Snips.

"Why am I not surprised." thought Sunset.

Sunset shook her head.

"What is Trixie like?" asked Sunset curiously.

"She's kinda bossy." answered Snails.

"But, it's totally awesome." added Snips.

"Has anything...interesting happened?" asked Sunset.

"Like what?" asked Snails dully.

"Anything notable. Like good or bad." answered Sunset.

"Why do you want to know?" asked Snips skeptically.

"Just curious." answered Sunset uneasy.

Sunset's eyes darted back and forth.

"Okay cool." replied Snips.

Sunset sighed in relief.

"There was that time her squirting flower squirted her in the face." revealed Snails.

"Or the used Trixie used her smoke bomb to escape and fell down stairs." added Snips.

"I was just leaving." said Sunset.

Sunset walked away and Flash caught up to her.

"That went well." said Sunset smiling.

"She was so mad." noted Snails.

"I thought her head would explode." confessed Snips.

"What is this?!" asked Trixie angrily.

Trixie marched over to Sunset.

"Trixie leaves for one second and you are fraternizing with another student!" snapped Trixie.

"I'm leaving." said Sunset.


Sunset and Flash left. Flash tried to apologize for not keeping Trixie away, but Sunset replied she got what she needed. The rest of the day went by a little quicker as Sunset planned her next course of action. Once school ended, she left and spent time with Flash and his place again. She then returned to the factory and found Jennifer.

"Hey." said Jennifer.

"Hello." replied Sunset smirking.

"You seem happier." noted Jennifer warmly.

"Today...was a better day." said Sunset pleased.

"Tell me." requested Jennifer.

"I tried to talk with a friend with that girl whose bullied me but, no no avail." said Sunset.

"Well, that's not good." mused Jennifer.

"No, but I talked with the two friends of that egomaniac and that was much better." continued Sunset.

"Please go on." requested Jennifer interested.

"I was able to get an idea of just who she really is." explained Sunset.

"And what are you going to do with that?" asked Jennifer interested.

Sunset Shimmer smiled.

"I'm going to take care of everything." answered Sunset.

Chapter 12

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Sunset Shimmer awoke eagerly. She got up and found Jennifer has managed to sneak in. Jennifer was exhausted having a long night.

"Hey Sunset." said Jennifer.

Sunset needed to pretend to be polite.

"Good morning." replied Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer managed to paste a fake smile on her face.

"How are you?" asked Sunset.

"Fine." answered Jennifer.

Jennifer rubbed her eyes.

"I need to crash." yawned Jennifer.

"A long night?" asked Sunset.

"It was worth it." answered Jennifer.

Jennifer pulled out a large wad of cash.

"Whoa!" gasped Sunset.

"Jet Set sure pays well." shrugged Jennifer.

"Have you had a test for venereal diseases?" asked Sunset curious.

"Thankfully, I've only had syphilis." answered Jennifer.

Jennifer fulled a line of condoms out of her purse.

"I make my clients wear condoms which does help." added Jennifer.

"At least she's smart." thought Sunset.

"Anything doing on today?" asked Jennifer.

"I'm going to focus on the Fall Formal." answered Sunset.

"Well, I'm sure you'll win." replied Jennifer.

"Thanks." said Sunset gratefully.

Sunset Shimmer shook her head.

"I have to go." said Sunset.


Sunset quickly departed the factory. She couldn't allow empathy or any such weakness. She showered and changed at the YMCA then went to Canterlot High. She had breakfast continuing her plan to seduce Flash Sentry. Sunset and Flash both finished eating early. Flash had to go see his band mates leaving Sunset alone. Sunset was wandering down the halls when she heard a voice.

"Hey stay calm." requested Rainbow.

"That's Rainbow Dash." muttered Sunset.

"You're calling me a bitch!" declared Gilda.

"That's Gilda." said Sunset seething.

"It's not me." said Rainbow quickly.

Sunset followed the voiced to an open classroom door.

"Then your "friends" are calling me bitches." said Gilda angrily.

Sunset leaned back against the door frame.

"This could be just what I asked for." thought Sunset pleased.

"No they aren't." said Rainbow.

"Then how you would you put it?" asked Gilda.

"They have some...concerns." answered Rainbow.

"It's that pink girl, isn't it?" asked Gilda.

"I can't say." answered Rainbow.

"That's a yes." thought Sunset.

"That's a yes." said Gilda.

"Maybe she's not as dumb as I thought." mused Sunset.

"Did you steal an apple from the cafeteria?" asked Rainbow.

"I took an apple, but those are students." answered Gilda.

"A non-answer." mused Sunset.

"Okay." said Sunset.

"Blinded by friendship." whispered Sunset scornfully.

"Did you snap at Fluttershy?" asked Rainbow.

"She walked into me." answered Gilda angrily.

"Fluttershy doesn't do stuff like that on purpose." noted Rainbow.

Gilda flared her nostrils.

"It seems like there bond isn't rock solid." mused Sunset.

Rainbow thought for a moment.

"We've been friends since summer camp so I do believe you." said Rainbow.

"That was nice." replied Gilda warmly.

Sunset hear silence.

"Do you remember how we met?" asked Gilda meekly.

Sunset raised her eyebrow in surprise.

"Those idiots Hoop, Dumbbell and Score where giving you crap." answered Rainbow.

"And you stood up for me." added Gilda softly.

"So she does have a weakness." thought Sunset.

Rainbow chuckled a bit.

"Do you remember soccer camp a few years ago?" asked Rainbow.

"Of course." answered Gilda.

"What about the last night?" asked Rainbow.

"Shut up!" cried Gilda.

Sunset peered in and saw something that stunned her.

"Gilda is blushing." thought Sunset amazed.

"We almost got screwed by the Photo Finish." huffed Gilda.

"I didn't know she was taking nature photos." replied Rainbow.

"Good thing I threatened to kiss her ass." stated Gilda.

"I think I have it on my phone." mused Rainbow.

"Delete it!" declared Gilda.

Gilda suddenly turned an eye to the door causing Sunset to jump back.

"I thought I saw something." said Gilda.

"Probably nothing." said Rainbow.


Sunset managed to escape without getting caught. The rest of the day was much more tolerable for her as she planned. Finally, school ended and Sunset was thrilled. She and Flash watched the Junior Varsity soccer team practice. Once they finished, they went to the locker room to shower. Flash was ready to go, but Sunset said she forgot her notebook and went inside. However, was she did, Sunset slipped into the locker room.

"Time to find that phone." whispered Sunset.

Sunset slowy crept through the room hearing the water running.

"You where great out there." said Cloudy Kicks.

"Of course! I'm awesome!" declared Rainbow.

"Gotta be careful." thought Sunset.

Sunset quietly began opening lockers.

"I'm sure you're get on the Varsity team right away." said Cloudy kicks.

"Naturally." said Rainbow.

"Her ego is bigger than Equestria." thought Sunset annoyed.

Sunset opened Rainbow's locker.

"Got it." muttered Sunset.

Sunset began looking through Rainbow's belongings.

"Can we practice again Saturday?" asked Cloudy Kicks.

"I'll be hanging with my friends and got a sleepover at night." answered Rainbow.

Sunset rolled her eyes as she found the phone.

"Here we go." whispered Sunset.

Sunset began searching through the photos and found it.

"Perfect." whispered Sunset smirking.

Sunset sent the photo to the school email and put the phone away.

"This will bring down Gilda." said Sunset.

Suddenly, she heard the shower shut off.

"You hear something?" asked Rainbow.

"I think so." answered Cloudy Kicks.

Sunset put the phone back, closed the locker and quickly got out of the locker room.

"Must have been nothing." shrugged Rainbow.

Sunset managed to slip away without getting caught. The remainder of the day went by much faster. Sunset went back with Flash to his place. Flash continued her guitar lessons and seduce her. Flash had to excuse him to the bathroom and Sunset got to work. She created an anonymous Mystable page and uploaded the picture she stole from Rainbow's phone. The next day, Sunset entered school trying not to smirk. Sunset passed Rainbow and her friends trying to tell her something.

"Rainbow Dash!" screamed Gilda.

"Showtime." thought Sunset.

Gilda stormed over to Rainbow.

"What the hell is your problem?!" asked Gilda angrily.

"I don't know what you're talking about." answered Rainbow confused.

"This!" cried Gilda.

Gilda showed them the MyStable account showing a picture of young Rainbow and Gilda sharing a kiss in the rain.

"I told you delete this!" cried Gilda.

"Gilda..." began Rainbow.

"I thought you where my friend!" exclaimed Gilda.

"I am!" cried Rainbow.

"Then why did you upload this?" asked Gilda hurt.

"I didn't." answered Rainbow.

"Only you and me knew about us!" screamed Gilda.

"What about Photo Finish?" asked Rainbow.

"I took the photo from her." answered Gilda.

"Photo Finish has nothing to do with this!" declared Photo Finish.

"I know why you did this..." began Gilda.

"I didn't." replied Rainbow.

"It's because of your pathetic friend." accused Gilda.

Gilda pointed at Fluttershy.

"Don't talk about Fluttershy like that!" demanded Rainbow.

"So you admit it!" cried Gilda.

"I didn't do a thing!" shot back Rainbow.

"This is because of your stupid friend, isn't it?!" asked Gilda accusingly.

"Don't call Fluttershy stupid!" snapped Rainbow.

"Just admit you're doing this to get back at me!" demanded Gilda.

"I didn't do this!" cried Rainbow.

"Maybe you aren't really my friend!" snapped Gilda.

Rainbow was taken aback by this.

"Wait a second..." began Rainbow.

"I should have known you weren't really my friend." stated Gilda.

"It's not like that." said Rainbow hurt.

Gilda flared her nostrils.

"I never should have trusted you." spat Gilda.

Rainbow Dash felt her heart break.

"You chose your dumb new friends over me! Especially that bitch Fluttershy!" snapped Gilda.

"No I didn't." said Rainbow.

"Yes you freaking did." said Gilda.

Gilda shoved Rainbow into the lockers.

"No I didn't!" cried Rainbow.

Rainbow jumped back and bumped Gilda.

"You bitch!" cried Gilda.

Gilda slammed Rainbow against the lockers.

"Don't bump me!" snapped Gilda.

Gilda pulled back her arm to punch Rainbow, but Applejack stopped her.

"Let go." said Gilda angrily.

"Enough!" cried a demanding voice.

The students parted as Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna stepped forward.

"Gilda. Rainbow Dash. My office now." said Celestia firmly.

"You're dead to me." whispered Gilda coldly.


The crowd dispersed as Sunset Shimmer did her best to suppress a smirk. Rainbow returned to class revealing Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna realized she didn't start things and bumped Gilda by accident. Gilda was suspended indefinitely would not return. Rainbow also noted Gilda flipped her off as she left. Sunset grinned to herself the rest of the day then hung out with Flash after. Finally, she returned to the factory.

"How was school?" asked Jennifer.

Jennifer was preparing herself for another night of walking the streets.

"One of my problems sorted its self out." answered Sunset.

"What happened?" asked Jennifer interested.

"Another student published an embarrassing picture and the girl bullying me slammed her against a locker." answered Sunset.

"Tell me she got punished." requested Jennifer worried.

"Suspended." revealed Sunset.

Sunset bit her lower lip to prevent a smile.

"I guess that helps." noted Jennifer.

"Yup. Now I don't have to worry about her bullying me." said Sunset.

"Glad to hear it." said Jennifer.

"One down." thought Sunset happily.

"But, there's still that other girl. The egomaniac." said Jennifer.

Sunset sighed flatly.

"Yeah. I guess so." said Sunset annoyed.

"Sorry. Didn't mean to touch a nerve." said Jennifer.

"It's fine." replied Sunset, through gritted teeth.

Jennifer left early.

"Trixie, you're next." said Sunset.

Chapter 13

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Sunset Shimmer awoke in the abandoned factory she currently called home. Sunset smiled widely as she got up. Her plan to bring down Gilda was successful and now she was setting her sites on Trixie Lulumoon. Sunset arrived at school and found Trixie in the cafeteria with Snips and Snails waiting on her hand and foot.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie wants to know why you're here." said Trixie.

"I'm here to talk." replied Sunset.

Sunset walked over to the table.

"Mind if I sit down?" asked Sunset.

Trixie rubbed her chin.

"Trixie supposes it's okay." answered Trixie.

Sunset sat down.

"I wanted to talk." said Sunset.

"Trixie supposes that is okay." said Trixie skeptically.

"I wanted to start over." said Sunset.

Trixie raised an eyebrow.

"We got off to a bad start and I want to change that." explained Sunset.

"Trixie supposes that is okay." replied Trixie.

"I never meant to upstage you." said Sunset.

"Like anyone can upstage Trixie." scoffed Trixie.

"I didn't mean to offend you." said Sunset.

"Trixie supposes she can be merciful and forgive you." replied Trixie.

"I must admit, I admire your confidence." stated Sunset.

Trixie laughed.

"It's a shame not everyone could be as confident as Trixie. It's a gift Trixie has." said Trixie proudly.

"That's right. Let your ego take over." thought Sunset.

"It's a shame not everyone can see it." said Sunset.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie agrees." replied Trixie.

"If only there was a way to show everyone." said Sunset.

Sunset turned around.

"Three...two...one..." counted Sunset softly.

"Trixie shall find a way!" declared Trixie.

Sunset smirked.

"It's too easy." thought Sunset, almost bored.

Sunset turned around.

"I think that is a great idea." said Sunset.

We'll totally help you." offered Snails.

"Yeah! It'll be the best show ever!" declared Snips.

"Trixie only puts on the best shows." said Trixie proudly.

"How about lunch." proposed Snips.

"But, when are we gonna eat?" asked Snails.

"The Great and Powerful Tixie refuses to miss lunch." stated Trixie firmly.

"If you do it during free period then we can whip up interest and you won't miss lunch." said Sunset.

Trixie jumped up.

"Attention everyone!" cried Trixie.

The others turned their attention to the magician.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie shall put on the show if a lifetime during the free period today!" declared Trixie.

The kids began talking among themselves.

"Attend or be in despair!" exclaimed Trixie.

"Well there is nothing wrong with a performance, I must remind you to use your in-door voice." said Vice principal Luna.

The VP had come to keep an eye on the kids...and get breakfast.

"Sorry." said Trixie meekly.

Trixie sat back down.

"Trixie shall amaze the entire school today." said Trixie.

"Or so you think." thought Sunset.


The day began the students of Canterlot High School attended their classes. Meanwhile, Sunset Shimmer planned her actions. Lunchtime came and Sunset joined the rest of her peers in the cafeteria. She told Flash she had to eat by self to "study" and made sure the others saw her. Sunset managed to sneak out and gab a bag from inside the library closet she hide the night before. Sunset then looked for Trixie's props. Sunset found the props hiding begin the stage. Taking a bite of her apple, Sunset put her plan into action.

"The pathetic saw your body in half trick." scoffed Sunset.

Sunset grabbed a nearby bottle of glue.

"This is too easy." said Sunset.

Sunset glued the box together at the point it separated.

"Let's see how you get out now." said Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer pulled a saw out of her bag.

"Let's see how you do with a real saw." said Sunset.

Sunset replaced Trixie's prop saw with a real one.

"Enough of that." decided Sunset.

Sunset found a number of wires.

"Pathetic fake levitation." scoffed Sunset.

Sunset grabbed a file and filed down the wires.

"Hope your drop isn't too hard." said Sunset.

Sunset found a spoon.

"The spoon bending trick." said Sunset.

Sunset rubbed her chin.

"Now if my research is correct, the trick is to rub it until it fatigues." noted Sunset.

Sunset felt the spoon and found it fatigued.

"Okay, she's worked over this one." said Sunset.

Sunset replaced the spoon with an identical copy.

"I hope you don't get tripped up." said Sunset sarcastically.

Sunset found the secret escape and glued it shut.

"This will be fun." said Sunset sinister.


The bell rang and Sunset went to class. Time passed slowly for Sunset who was impatient. Finally, the free period arrived. Thanks to word of mouth, spread by Snips and Snails, attendance was higher than Sunset expected. Sunset didn't mind as this only helped her. Sunset was surprised to see some staff even showing up including the principals. The lights suddenly went out and a spotlight turned on over stage. Trixie made her appearance.

"Showtime." thought Sunset confident.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie shall amaze and astonish you all!" declared Trixie.

An awkward silence followed.

"This is a promising start." thought Sunset.

"This is when you applaud." noted Trixie annoyed.

"Get on with it!" snapped Hoops.

Hoops was hushed by two girls.

"For her first performance, the Great and Powerful Trixie shall be sawed in half!" declared Trixie.

"Boring!" called Dumbbell.

The same two girls hushed Dumbbell.

"I'm doing anything and this is already working out." thought Sunset.

Snips and Snails rolled out the box and Trixie presented it.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie shall now allow her assistant to saw her in half!" declared Trixie.

Trixie crawled into the box.

"Or so you think." thought Sunset.

"Let me." said Snips.

The two lackeys where fighting over the saw.

"No, I wanna do it." said Snails.

"Just get on with it!" snapped Trixie.

Snails pulled the saw away and began to saw. However, the real teeth of the saw began cutting into Trixie.

"Oh!" cried Trixie, in pain.

"What's wrong?" asked Snips.

"That's hurting." answered Trixie.

The crowd began to whisper.

"I told you I should do it!" declared Snips.

Trixie violently fought her way out of the box.

"Idiotic so called assistants." huffed Trixie.

Trixie grabbed her "prop" spoon.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie shall now bend a spoon with only her mind!" declared Trixie.

Trixie held the spoon and staring at the spoon.

"Yet nothing will happen." thought Sunset.

Trixie still on the stage as nothing happened.

"Do something!" called Score.

The same two girls hushed Score.

Trixie examined the spoon.

"Idiots must have replaced my spoon." sighed Trixie.

Trixie tossed the spoon over her shoulder.

The Great and Powerful Trixie shall now levitate before your very eyes!

Trixie held out her hands signaling Snips and Snails to start a smoke machine.

"I could have sabotaged that. Oh well." thought Sunset.

Snips and Snails began hooking up Trixie as the noticed the wires seemed weakened.

"Um Trixie." began Snips.

"Hush!" demanded Trixie.

"It's just..." began Snails.

"Do as your told!" demanded Trixie.

Snips and Snails raced off stage and shut the smoke machine off.

"Behold!" called Trixie.

Snips and Snails began pulling Trixie up, but the weakened wires snapped causing Trixie to fall and hit the stage.

"Perfect." thought Sunset smugly.

Worried whispers traveled as principals rushed to the stage. However, Trixie groggily got back up.

"Trixie is okay!" declared Trixie.

Trixie shook her head.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie shall perform a grandiose escape trick!" exclaimed Trixie.

Snips and Snails brought the trunk onto the stage, Trixie got in and they closed it.

"Here we go." thought Sunset.

Trixie attempted to escape, but found the entrance wouldn't open.

"Just like I planned." thought Sunset arrogantly.

Trixie continued attempting to escape while students began laughing.

"Open that trunk up." demanded Principal Celestia.

"This show is over." added Vice Principal Luna.

Snips and Snails did so as the mocking students laughed.

"You are dismissed!" snapped Vice Principal Luna.

The crowd dispersed.

"Are you okay, Trixie?" asked Principal Celestia.

"Yes." answered Trixie hurt.

The principals left.

"Sorry that didn't go well trixie." said Snips.

"You'll do better next time." added Snails.

Trixie turned around seething.

"You idiots!" snapped Trixie.

"What are you talking about?" asked Snails confused.

"You two had one job: making sure everything went down perfectly and you failed!" answered Trixie enraged.

"We're sorry." replied Snips softly.

"That doesn't do a thing for me! You idiots are finished! I want nothing to do with you!" cried Trixie.

The two girls who where hushing the hecklers arrived.

"Hello Trixie. I am Lavender lace and this is Fuchsia Blush." said Lavender.

"We're huge fans. It's a shame everyone else in the school doesn't know how great and powerful you are." said Fuchsia.

Trixie's ego swelled back up.

"Trixie needs new assistants. You've got the job." said Trixie.

Trixie stormed off with Fuchsia and Lavender behind her. Snips and Snails where left sulking.

"Man, I feel bad for those two." admitted Flash.

"Having lackeys could be helpful." thought Sunset.

Sunset suppressed her smirk.

"I'm going to talk to them." said Sunset.

Sunset walked over to Snips and Snails.

"How are you?" asked Sunset sympathetically.

"Bad." answered Snails flatly.

"I can't believe Trixie kicked us aside!" cried Snips.

"Hey, I'm sure you gave it your all." replied Sunset.

"We did!" declared Snips.

"Yeah. We didn't do any of those things." added Snails.

"I believe you." said Sunset.

Sunset rubbed her chin.

"How would like to follow me around?" asked Sunset.

"Like...as our new boss?" asked Snails.

"Yeah." answered Sunset.

"Do you mean it?" asked Snips hopeful.

"Of course." answered Sunset.

"Thanks so much!" declared Snails.

"We won't let you down!" declared Snips.

"Too easy." thought Sunset.