> Ponyville Sunlight
>  by RS-Belle14
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Glad to be back
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Any second now. Princess Twilight Sparkle thought as she anxiously paced back and forth around her library, circling the interdimensional portal she had created. She's just running a little tardy, Twilight. She'll be here soon. No need to be concerned. Not everypony can be as punctual as you are. Just be patient. Twilight breathed out. Oh, why do you always have to make me wait, Sunset? Twilight continued to trot around the portal, worrying the library's other two occupants.

"I don't think I've ever seen her this nervous before," Starlight Glimmer whispered to Spike. "Do you think we should go calm her down?" 

"No, wait it out. This is just her routine excitement phase. If she starts twitching and tries to cast spells on stuffed dolls, then we'll step in."

"Uh...Stuffed dolls?"

"It was this thing about sending a friendship letter to Princess Celestia every week, and it was about to be late, and it really bothered Twilight. Like, really bothered her," Spike shivered."It got really out of hoof. Just trust me on this."

Starlight slowly nodded. "Ooookay?"

The trio resumed waiting, hoping for Twilight's visitor to emerge from the portal. Moments passed and still nothing. The library grew increasingly silent as time went on. Twilight's hoofsteps began to echo throughout the library, making Spike and Starlight even more concerned. The clock continued ticking until finally, the portal's glass began to ripple with a bright light shining off its surface.

The portal's sudden activity made Twilight smile brighter than the light it was emitting. Finally!

Just as quickly as it arrived, the light faded away to reveal the orange unicorn, Sunset Shimmer, struggling to stand on her two hind legs. "Whoa..."

"Sunset!" Twilight galloped to her newly arrived friend. "You're here!"

"Am I?" Sunset dizzyingly asked. "I can't really tell. My eyes are still spinning," Sunset dropped down to all four and began to gag. "Ugh. I think I'm gonna be sick."

"Sunset, it's me!" Twilight hopped. "Twilight!"

"Twilight?" Sunset collected her senses and finally noticed the smiling pony standing before her. "Twilight!" Sunset wrapped her forelegs around Twilight's neck. "Oh Twilight, it's so good to see you!"

"It's good to see you too, Sunset!" Twilight hugged back. "How have you been?"

"Good. How about you?"

"Good," Twilight answered. "I missed you."

"I missed you, too. I'm so sorry for the wait."

"It's okay," Twilight snuggled on Sunset's shoulder. "You're here now."

"Yeah," Sunset leaned in. "I am."

Twilight and Sunset stood in each other's warm embrace, relishing in their long awaited reunion. Neither of them made any attempt to separate from the other. They had been waiting for this moment for some time now, and they were going to enjoy it for as long as they could. 

Of course, their moment couldn't last for too long. After all, there were others looking forward to Sunset's visit than just Twilight.

"Hey, Sunset!" Spike called out. 

Sunset broke away from Twilight to see a little dragon running up to her. "What the...Spike?"

"Hiya, Sunset," Spike stopped in front of two ponies. "Long time, no see."

."Hehehe...Yeah," Sunset nervously chuckled. "No kidding."

"Uh..." Spike checked his scales for blueberry stains and sniffed his breath to see if it still smelled like that morning's hay and cheese biscuit. "Something wrong, Sunset?"

"What?" Sunset returned to reality. "No. Why?"

"You're just staring at me," Spike answered.

"Oh! I'm sorry, Spike. It's just..." Sunset studied Spike's current form and gave a small giggle. "I barely recognize you."

"Whaaat?" Spike slicked back his head spikes. "How could you ever not recognize such a dashing, debonair dragon like yours truly?" Spike gave Sunset two claws up  with a little wink.

"Haha," That's Spike all right. "Well, I'm sorry, handsome. I've just gotten so used to seeing you on the other side that I almost forgot you even are a dragon."

"Hehe. Don't worry. I get it," Spike took a good look at Sunset. "I almost forgot what you look like as a pony. Not bad, if I may say so."

"Huh?" Spike's words struck realization into Sunset's head. Did he just say I'm a... Sunset immediately directed her attention down toward her hooves. My hands, my fingers...they're gone. A smile slowly began to form on Sunset's face. "Hey...Y-You're right," Sunset peeked over her shoulder. I have a tail. She looked up at her forehead. And my horn's back, too! "Spike, you're right! I'm a unicorn!" Sunset began hopping. "I-I'm a pony again!"

Twilight happily nodded. "You sure are."

"Look at me! I'm me! It's been so long, I almost forgot how this feels!"

Spike chuckled. "Take it easy, Sunset. You're starting act like Pinkie Pie."

"Just look at me!" Sunset didn't appear to listen. "Hooves, horn, magic!" A cyan glow enveloped around Sunset's horn. "I got my magic back!" She sang.

"That's wonderful, Sunset," Twilight said. "But maybe you should slow down a-"

"What spell should I do first?! Vegetation growth? Vocal enhancement?! No, wait!" Sunset disappeared in a cyan flash of light and reappeared behind Twilight. "Teleportation! Oh, it feels so good to do that again."

"Wow. That's-"

"You see me here," Sunset vanished again. "Now, I'm here!" She hollered from atop a bookshelf. "And now..." Sunset disappeared again. "Here!" Sunset continued her vanishing act by reappearing under a table, and then beside the portal, then the window sill, the library door, and so on.

"And here!" Well, that was the last of Sunset's teleportation spells. In her excitement, Sunset had unintentionally apparated to the other side of the library, standing uncomfortably close to a purple unicorn she did not know.

"Uh...Hello there," Sunset awkwardly greeted.

"...Hi."

Um...Maybe I did go just a tad overboard. "I am so sorry," Sunset stepped back. "I guess got a little excited there. I didn't mean to bother you, Miss."

"It's all right," She assured. "It was actually pretty impressive. I've only ever seen Twilight and myself perform a teleportation spell. You're definitely as good with magic as Twilight says you are."

"Huh?" Wait...A purple unicorn with a highlighted mane and a cutie mark in magic. She must be- "Hey, you're Starlight Glimmer, aren't you?"

"That's me," Starlight nodded. "Twilight has told me a lot about you and your adventures together. It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Sunset Shimmer," Starlight held out her hoof.

"The pleasure's mine," Sunset happily shook Starlight's hoof. "Twilight's told me a lot about you, too. By the sound of things, you're not too bad with magic, yourself."

"Haha. Oh, I just try my best."

"Come on, don't be modest. I've heard of some of the spells you can do, and I must say, I am impressed."

"Really?"

"Really. In fact, you might almost be as good as I am," Sunset teased.

"Ha. I see Twilight wasn't exaggerating about your sense of humor, neither."

"Heh. So Twilight's been telling you a lot about me, huh?" Sunset took a quick glance at Twilight and raised her eyebrow at Starlight. "Mind telling everything she's said?"

"Hmm," Starlight tapped her chin. "I don't think she would appreciate that very much," She giggled.

"Hehe. Well, I tried," Sunset shrugged. "So, you're Twilight's protégé, right? How are your lessons going? I hope Twilight hasn't been giving you too much trouble."

"Haha. They're going fine. Along with a few spells, Twilight's primarily been teaching me about friendship. I'm still new to the concept, but I think I'm progressing nicely. And no, Twilight isn't too overbearing...all the time. Haha," Starlight leaned in with a little smile. "It's really only when she does one of her friendship speeches," She whispered.

Sunset giggled. "Tell me about it. I like a good friendship lesson as much as the next pony, but Twilight just has so many of them, and they're all speeches! I know she's the Princess of Friendship but come on. I love Twilight, but half of her messages to me don't have to be about the moral of the week," Sunset and Starlight shared a laugh.

"Did somepony say my name?" Twilight trotted in with a bit of a pout.

"Uh, yes," Sunset answered. "Starlight here was just telling me about how amazing of a teacher you are."

"Really now?" Twilight gave the two unicorns a suspicious look. "Because from the distance, it almost sounded like you two were mocking me."

"What? Noooo," Sunset playfully shook her head. "We would never do that. Starlight and I were just comparing friendship lessons you've given us." 

"Hmm," Twilight raised her eyebrow. "I don't think I believe you, Sunset. Actually, I'm sure of it. I don't believe you, not for one second. But..." Twilight's pout turned to a smile. "I'm really glad to see you two are getting along."

"Ha. Hey, what's that supposed mean?" Sunset chuckled. "You thought we wouldn't?"

"Oh no, I didn't think that. It's just...I don't know. I've told you two a lot about each other, but I wasn't sure how you two would react to actually meeting each other."

"Hey, don't worry about it," Sunset assured. "You've met a lot of ponies during your time, Twilight, some good, some bad. When we first met, I wouldn't have labeled myself as good, but you still gave me a chance, and well...here we are," Sunset winked. "If you trust Starlight enough to take her in and make her your pupil, then I trust her, too. She's all right with me."

Twilight smiled. "Thank you, Sunset."

Starlight stepped in. "And I've been wanting to meet Sunset ever since you first told me about her. She sounds like a really interesting pony, and if you trust Sunset Shimmer enough to be your lover, she must really special."

Both Twilight's and Sunset's faces turned red from hearing Starlight's comment. There was a brief pause before Sunset turned her attention to Twilight.

"Her...lover?" Sunset spoke in a very flirty manner. "Just what exactly have you been telling your friends happened during our little holiday?"

"All I said was we explored the city and went for a swim! Honest!" Twilight blabbered.

"Didn't you two also kiss?"

"Starlight!" Twilight squealed.

"Haha. Whoa, take it easy, Twilight," Sunset began. "I was just teasing. I know you wouldn't spread rumors about me like that. Besides," Sunset snuggled her head under Twilight's neck. "I'm pretty sure we did kiss."

"Yeah," Twilight leaned over Sunset's head. "We did," She then eyed her student. "But that's all we did, Starlight. We're not lovers just yet."

"Oooh," Starlight giggled. "Excuse me. It's just from where you left off your story, I thought you two might've-"

"Hey! You guys can't just leave me behind like that," Spike jumped in. "Now, what were we talking about here? What did you think Twilight and Sunset did, Starlight?"

The three mares nervously glanced at each other and answered with a quick and simultaneous "Nothing."

"Nothing? What do you mean-"

"Sooo Sunset!" Twilight interrupted. "Now that we got all of the formal introductions out of the way, how about we move on to our plans for today? I have the entire day planned out, and I think you're going to like it," The look in Twilight's eyes insisted they move on.

"Uh, sure!" Sunset agreed. "Sounds good to me."

"Great," Twilight grabbed Sunset's hoof and pulled her toward the library's exit. "Let's get going."

Spike snickered. "Oh, I see what's going on here now."

"What?!" Twilight blushed.

"Somepony really wants to runoff with Sunset."

"Oh...Right," Thank Celestia. "Of course."

"Can't fool me, Twilight. Well, you two have fun then."

"Thank you, Spike," Twilight replied.

"Wait," Sunset paused. "Aren't you and Starlight coming with us?"

"Nah," Spike shrugged. "Starlight and I have some things to do. Besides," Spike smirked. "I'm pretty sure Twilight would prefer to have you for herself for a while," Sunset blushed. "Don't worry. We'll meet up later."

"Are you sure?"

Starlight trotted in. "We're sure. You two have fun," She smiled.

"All right," Sunset turned around. "I'm ready, Twilight."

"Okay," Twilight led Sunset toward the exit. "Goodbye!"

"Bye!" Sunset added.

"See ya!"

"Bye!" Starlight waved as Twilight and Sunset left. "I like her."

"Yeah, Sunset's pretty cool."

"For sure. I hope I get another chance to talk her more later."

"I'm pretty sure you will," Spike began to walk away. "Come on. Twilight will get upset if we don't finish everything before they get back."

"Coming," Starlight followed.

~End Chapter~
> Catching Up
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Sorry for just dragging you away like," Twilight apologized as she led Sunset down the castle's hallways. "I panicked."

"It's all right. I didn't want to explain it to Spike, neither," Sunset joked. Sunset looked around and admired castle's interior. "Nice place you got here."

"Thank you. I had the castle cleaned up for your visit."

"I appreciate it," Sunset nodded. "It sure is different from Canterlot's castle. It's much more crystalline, and it feels a lot less...occupied for some reason."

"Haha. Yes. That might be due to the castle's lack of royal guards."

"Wait, you mean you really don't have any guards? Any? Doesn't that kind of leave you...I don't know, vulnerable for attack?"

"Hmm. I suppose it does, but I don't think it's really a problem. I've lived here for a while now, and nopony ever seems to attack here directly."

Sunset raised her eyebrow. "Didn't you tell me that Starlight broke in here and took you on a dangerous adventure across time and space?"

Sunset's words stopped Twilight right in her tracks. "...Okay, maybe I am vulnerable for attack."

"See?" Sunset playfully elbowed Twilight. "Maybe Your Majesty should invest in some guardsponies to help protect her royal flank. We wouldn't want anything bad happening to it."

"Sunset!" Twilight lightly scolded Sunset for her last remark. "I see your point, and while I appreciate your concern, I still don't think I'm hiring any guards."

"Why not? You just agreed that you're not completely prepared for a direct attack."

"I know, but...I just prefer living in a more vacant home," Twilight began to trot again. "I like visitors. Really, I do. I like having some company, but I also like to having some peace and quiet while I'm at home. I won't have much of that if there's a bunch of guards trotting around the halls all day and night."

"But what if somepony tries to attack you again?"

"With our combined magic, I'm sure Starlight and I can handle any threat that comes our way or, at the very least, hold them off until the others arrive to help."

"Hmm. I guess so. Still, with just the three of you living here," Sunset looked at all the doors across the hallways. "It kind of seems like a good waste of castle space."

"It really is," Twilight nodded. "With big tall ceilings, shiny cold floors, and long empty hallways, this castle wasn't my first choice for a home."

"Yeah. Now that you mention it, this castle doesn't really seem like your style," Sunset looked a little concerned. "Do you mean to say that you don't like living here, Twilight?"

"What? Oh no, of course not," Twilight chuckled. "It may not have been my first choice, but I've definitely grown attached to this castle."

"Really?"

"Of course! It has plenty of charm to it. For one, the castle's library is much bigger than the Golden Oaks Library ever was. I haven't had to worry about the shelves overflowing with books since this place popped up, and re-shelving day has become even more fun!"

"Haha," Oh, Twilight. "That does sound like fun."

"Oh, it is," Twilight dreamily said. "But there is much more to the castle than that."

"Do tell."

"Well, there's the scenic view, the chandelier, and the Cutie Ma-" Twilight cut herself off. "Actually...how about I tell you later?"

"Huh? Why?"

"I want to save your tour of the castle for end of the day."

"Why?"

Twilight blushed. "You'll see."

Sunset noticed the shade of Twilight's face and smiled. "All right, fine. But it better be good. I was really looking forward to exploring this place."

"It will be. I promise," Twilight and Sunset stopped in front two large, golden doors. "But right now, I want to give you a tour," Twilight's horn began to glow. "Of this," Twilight's magic aura surrounded the doorknobs and opened the doors.

Sunlight flowed through the doorway as it slowly creaked opened. From where she was standing, Sunset could see many trees and buildings standing under a clear, blue sky. She could also a dark forest in the distance. What caught Sunset's attention the most, however, were the many colored, little citizens trotting about.

Ponies. Sunset grinned.

"Sunset," Twilight waved her hoof toward the town. "Welcome to Ponyville."

Sunset shook her head in disbelief. "Wow...It's looks exactly like the way you described it."

"Haha. Well, I do like to making my notes specific," Twilight lightly pulled Sunset out the doorway. "Why don't we take a closer look?"

"Lead the way."

Sunset followed Twilight down the pathway into Ponyville, eager to see what sights the town had to offer. From what Twilight said in her messages, Ponyville may have been a relatively small town, but it had plenty to offer. Of its many charms, Sunset found one particular quality of Ponyville to be quite interesting.

"There are so many different types of ponies here. When I lived in Canterlot, the population was almost exclusively unicorn."

"Indeed," Twilight nodded. "I've traveled all across Equestria, and Ponyville is still the only place I've seen that's populated by all three kinds of ponies."

"Ha. Don't you mean four?" Sunset lifted one of Twilight's wings.

"Oh. I guess you're right," Twilight giggled. "Have you really never been to Ponyville before, Sunset?"

"No, I haven't. I've seen it a few times from room in Canterlot, but I've never actually been here before."

"Well, what do you think of it so far?"

Sunset looked around and gave Twilight a little smirk. "Not bad," She winked. "So, what's first on the agenda?"

"Well, I was thinking we-" Twilight was interrupted by the sound of what appeared to be the growl of a lion. "Gilda?"

Sunset rubbed her belly in embarrassment. "Ha...Sorry," She squeaked.

Twilight giggled. "Okay, how about we start by getting some breakfast, instead? My treat."

"It's okay, Twilight. I'm not that-" Sunset's stomach growled again. "Well, if you insist."

"Come on. I know a good place to eat that's not too far from here."

Twilight led Sunset to a nearby restaurant in Ponyville's marketplace. The two friends seated themselves on the outside patio where a waiter soon came by and gave them menus. After the waiter had gone, Twilight and Sunset were left to decide what to order.

"Wow," Sunset read the menu. "It's been a long time since I've seen a menu with actual Equestrian cuisine. Everything looks so good."

"Glad you like the choices. Order what you like, Sunset. I've got it."

"Are you sure? I wouldn't want to be burden."

"It's fine, really. Besides, I still owe you for the café, remember?"

"Ha. How could I forget?" Sunset smiled. "Thanks, Twilight."

The waiter returned, holding a pen and notepad. "Have you made your decision?"

Sunset and Twilight looked up. "Yes. I'd like a daisy and daffodil sandwich, please," They simultaneously answered.

"Two daisy and daffodil sandwiches. They will be ready soon," The waiter wrote down their orders, took their menus, and left.

Sunset and Twilight stared at each other in disbelief and began to laugh.

"Good to see that your pony form has good taste," Twilight joked.

"Likewise," Sunset chuckled. "So, what have you been up to, Twilight? Anything new happen?"

"Oh yes, plenty. Have I told you about the friendship summit in Griffonstone?"

"Yes, actually. You messaged me about it the other day."

"It was such a-oh. Really? Um...What about the overnight goodwill tour of Yakyakistan?"

"That too, Twilight. In excruciating detail if I may add."

"Hmm," I've got to be less specific in my messages. "What about the cookie-zombie apocalypse?"

"Yea-" Sunset cut herself off. "No," Sunset re-registered what Twilight just said. "Whaaa?"

Bingo. "It's true."

"Wait, wait, wait. You mean you actually encountered zombies?"

"Haha. Well no, not exactly."

Sunset stared at Twilight in disbelief. "I'm listening."

Twilight sat up and began to tell her story. "Well, it all started a few days ago when Fluttershy told the others and me that Rainbow Dash had really scared her with one of her pranks. We called Rainbow for a meeting at the castle to discuss her lack of consideration for Fluttershy's feelings. She knows how timid Fluttershy is, and she should know she shouldn't prank her like that."

"I tried to tell Rainbow that she should make an effort to make sure her idea of a funny prank matches the pony she's pranking, than she pranked me with a whoopee cushion," That made Sunset giggle, making Twilight roll her eyes. "Yes, she got me, but it wasn't that funny."

"You sure about that?"

"Sunset!"

"Haha. Go on."

"Anyway," Twilight continued. "That whoopee cushion was the last straw. We told Rainbow Dash that if she wasn't going to put the effort, then she shouldn't prank anypony at all," Twilight sighed. "Unfortunately, she took our message the wrong way and vowed to put more effort into her pranks rather trying to understand the other pony's feelings. She left and went on a pranking rampage. Rainbow Dash pranked half the town, and not one of her victims enjoyed her pranks!" Well, except for Pinkie Pie.

"The madness had to stop. Since talking to Rainbow Dash didn't work, the townsponies and I went to Pinkie Pie. We were hoping that Pinkie could reason with Rainbow since they both have an affinity for pranks. Pinkie understood and left to talk to Rainbow. When she came back, she told us that Rainbow didn't listen and was even planning to prank the entire town later that day. The townponies and I were concerned. It didn't look like anything could stop Rainbow, but then Pinkie Pie said she had an idea," Twilight leaned and began to smirk. "That's when things got real interesting."

Sunset raised her eyebrow and smirked as well. "How so?"

"Well, Pinkie Pie suggested that if reasoning with Rainbow Dash wasn't working, than showing her how wrong she was might," Twilight mischievously smiled. "Pinkie thought we should prank Rainbow."

"Nooo."

"Yes! She even had the prank already planned out. You see, the Filly Guide Cookie Drive was coming up, and Pinkie Pie told us that Rainbow Dash's next prank was to replace the Filly Guide cookies with some joke cookies she ordered that covered your face with a rainbow-colored cream. Pinkie said we should all eat the cookies, keep our faces rainbow, stay indoors until sundown, and when it was finally dark out, we would slowly trot around Ponyville acting like mindless, cookie-eating zombies looking for more of her joke cookies, which Rainbow Dash was of course carrying."

"Whoa," Sunset chuckled. "Did it work?"

"Oh, it worked, all right. Rainbow Dash was scared out of her wits," Twilight looked smug. "Needless to say, she's been much more considerate with her pranks ever since."

"Haha. Wow," Sunset shook her head. "That's quite the story, Twilight."

"Thank you," Glad I still had a story. "Speaking of stories, it sounds like you had one not too long ago."

"Hmm. Which one?"

"Your trip to Camp Everfree, of course."

"Ha. Oh yeah. There's a story."

"Now, you've been pretty vague in your messages, Sunset. I'm a little curious; just what happened?"

"Well, it all started with-"

"Your meals, ladies," The waiter returned carrying two plates holding Twilight's and Sunset's sandwiches.

Sunset lit up when she saw her sandwich. "Oh, finally!" She levitated the sandwich to her mouth and took a bite. "Mmm. Thank you."

"Thank you, sir," Twilight levitated her sandwich.

"My pleasure, madams," The waiter trotted away.

"So, you were saying, Sunset?" Sunset didn't appear to hear her. "Um, Sunset?" Sunset continued eating her sandwich. "Hello? Sunset? You were telling me about-" Sunset took another bite, completely unaware of Twilight's voice. At first, Twilight was a little annoyed; she really wanted to hear Sunset's story. As time went on, however, Twilight soon found Sunset's little nibbles and squees of delight to be a little cute. She's like a filly eating her first apple. Twilight giggled and decided to drop the subject and eat her own food.

Sunset gulped down the last her sandwich and smiled in satisfaction. Mmm. Flowers. "Okay Twilight, so it all started with...Twilight?" Twilight was ravenously eating her own sandwich, taking one colossal bite after another. Huh. I guess she wasn't that interested after all. Sunset sat back and patiently waited for Twilight to finish eating. Hmm. We've really got to work on her table manners.

~End Chapter~

> Welcome to Ponyville
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Feeling better?" Twilight asked as she and Sunset left the restaurant.

"Much better," Rubbed her belly in satisfaction. "I didn't realize I was so hungry. Thanks again, Twilight."

"My pleasure."

Sunset smiled. "So now that we got breakfast out of the way, where's our first stop for my tour of Ponyville?"

"Well, I was thinking we'd start you off with something familiar."

"Sounds good. What is it?"

"Haha. You'll see."

"Hmph," Sunset pouted. "Playing that game again, are we?"

"I'm sorry, Sunset, but I'm just following your example," Twilight leaned in with a bit of a glare. "No. Spoilers."

"...Touché," Sunset turned her head forward in defeat. As she looked on, Sunset noticed something that really surprised her. "Hey, T-Twilight..."

"Hmm? What is it, Sunset?"

"Speaking of familiar..." Sunset pointed her hoof toward the object of her attention. "Is that...?"

Twilight looked toward the direction of Sunset's hoof to see a smiling pink pony happily trotting down the path towards them.

"Oh. Hehe. Yes, Sunset. That's her," Twilight confirmed. "She's heading our way. Why don't you introduce yourself?"

Sunset excitedly nodded. "Sure!" Sunset waited for the pony come closer. When Sunset and pony finally crossed paths, Sunset extended her hoof to greet her. "Hi, Pinkie Pie!"

Pinkie stared at Sunset for a moment, gasped, and quickly ran away, leaving behind a trail of dust.

"..............Was it something I said?" Sunset sounded a little heartbroken.

"No, no," Twilight wrapped her foreleg around Sunset's shoulder. "She just...wasn't prepared to meet you."

"Are you sure?" Sunset looked toward the direction Pinkie left. "She just ran away."

"It's not what you think," Twilight comforted. "Look, we'll see her again later, and you'll see that everything is all right."

Sunset met Twilight's eyes. "Promise?"

"I promise," Twilight assured. "Do you think you'll be okay?"

"Yeah...I'll be fine," Sunset wiped her eyes. "Let's go. The day isn't getting any younger."

"All right then. Follow me."

Sunset followed Twilight away from Ponyville's main market place and into its more rural area. The homes of ponies were gradually disappearing, being replaced by fields upon fields of trees. It definitely felt familiar to Sunset. Soon, Sunset saw that Twilight had led her to none other than-

"Sweet Apple Acres," Sunset facehoofed herself. "I should've known."

"Ha. I told you were going somewhere familiar, didn't I?"

"Eeyup," Sunset said in a deep voice. "And this entire scene definitely feels familiar," In more ways than one for some reason.

"Indeed," Twilight and Sunset entered Sweet Apple Acres. "Though, I'm sure you've noticed few differences already."

"Oh yeah. I notice a severe lack of stables in this place," Sunset noticed they were heading toward the Apple house. "I take it we're here so I can meet Applejack?"

"Eeyup," Great, now I'M doing it! "But I'm also here to give you a little history lesson."

"A history lesson? Here?" Didn't expect that. "I'm listening."

Twilight cleared her throat. "A long time ago, before Ponyville was created, a group of pilgrim ponies traveled far and wide across Equestria, collecting and selling many different kinds of seeds they encountered during their journeys. One day, the pilgrim ponies had arrived to the most beautiful, most magnificent city in all the land: Canterlot. The pilgrim ponies were amazed at just how rich and regal Canterlot was. They had never seen anything like it before, and they never thought they would see anything quiet so royal again," Twilight smiled. "That is, until they saw the one and only Princess Celestia."

"Princess Celestia was being charioted across the marketplace when she saw the pilgrim ponies, who presented her with their finest collection of seeds. As she was thanking them, Princess Celestia noticed how tired and hungry the pilgrim ponies were. Feeling the need to help these most kind of subjects, Princess Celestia pointed them to a spot of land near the Everfree Forest, telling them that if they settled there, they would grow a farm that was rich in fruit and would last for generations."

"The pilgrim ponies thanked Princess Celestia and journeyed to the land of promised fruit. They soon reached their destination and settled in  by building a small house using some wood from the trees of the Everfree Forest. At first, living on the new land proved difficult as their crops were taking time to grow, and they were very hungry. But after time, theirs seed grew and formed an amazing orchard of apple trees. With the apples, the pilgrim ponies made many different delicacies that not only fed them but also attracted other ponies from different parts of Equestria."

"Many ponies traveled there to try the delicious apple products the pilgrim ponies made. Some of the ponies liked the products and the land so much they decided to stay there. Houses, businesses, and families soon erected all over the land. The once small-populated settlement became a community of different kinds of ponies from all three tribes, something Equestria had not yet seen. In light of this new development, the ponies of this special new community decided to name their new home 'Ponyville'," Twilight finished her story as she and Sunset stood before Apple house.

"Amazing," Was the only response Sunset could think of. "So you mean to tell me that in this world, Sweet Apple Acres is the reason Ponyville exists?"

"Mm-hmm. It all started at this very house," Twilight pointed at the Apple house. "Of course, that was just my version of Ponyville's history. If you want to hear a more authentic version, ask Granny Smith."

"What? Is she a historian in this world?"

"Haha. No. She was one was one of pilgrim ponies that first settled here."

"She was?!" Sunset's jaw dropped. "How is that even-?! How could she be-?! How old IS she?"

"Nopony knows, but she's still around."

"...Wow," Sunset took a minute. "Well, thanks for bringing me here, Twilight. I really liked your story."

"My pleasure Sunset, but let's not say 'farewell' to this farm just yet."

"Why not?"

"Twilight!" A familiar voice called from behind Sunset, making Twilight smile.

Sunset closed her eyes and nodded. "Oh yeah."

"Twilight!" Applejack called as she galloped. "Twilight, Ah thought Ah saw you from the distance," Applejack trotted to a halt by the other two ponies. "Now, who do we have here?"

"Applejack, I'd like you to meet Sunset Shimmer."

Sunset slowed offered her hoof. "...Hello. It's a pleas-"

"Well, howdy there, Sunset Shimmer!" Applejack abruptly took Sunset's hoof and began to aggressively shake it and Sunset. "Ah'm Applejack! Heard so much about you! A pleasure finally makin' your acquaintance! Welcome! We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like makin' new friends!" Applejack let go though Sunset did not stop shaking.

Well, at least she's not running away. "Nice to meet you too, Applejack," Sunset forced her leg to stop moving.

"Well now, why don't we all head on inside? Wouldn't be right if Ah left my guests out here under the hot sun," Applejack made her way to her doorstep. "Come on in," Sunset and Twilight followed Applejack through the front door of her home and into her dining room. "Have a seat. Make yourselves comfy."

"Thank you."

"Thanks."

"My pleasure. Now if you'll just excuse me for a moment," Applejack walked toward the diner's exit and yelled out. "Everypony downstairs! We have guests!"

Upon Applejack's announcement, the sound of hoofsteps began to echo throughout the house. The sounds grew louder as Sunset could make out the shadows of ponies descending down the staircase. The shadows disappeared and were replaced with three ponies of various sizes whose faces Sunset recognized all too well.

"We're here! We're here!"

"Eeyup."

"Ah'm a comin'. Ah'm a comin'."

"Sunset," Applejack wrapped a leg around Sunset's shoulder as each of the three ponies took a seat. "Allow me to introduce you to Apple Bloom, Big Macintosh, and Granny Smith."

"Hi!"

"Eeyup."

"How do you do?"

"Apples, this here is Sunset Shimmer. She's Twilight's visitor from out of town."

"Pleased to meet you," Sunset waved.

"It's so nice meet you!' Apple Bloom replied, sounding quite giddy. "Ah'm Apple Bloom, though Ah'm guessin' you already knew that. Hehe. Ah've heard so much about you! Tell me, are you really from another world?!"

"Haha," Aw, she's adorable. "I'm actually from Canterlot, but I live in another world."

"That's so cool! What's it like?!"

"Apple Bloom," Applejack sternly said. "Mind your manners."

"Oh," Apple Bloom drooped. "Ah'm sorry."

"Ha. It's all right, Applejack. I don't mind," Sunset assured as she turned her attention back to Apple Bloom. "It's both very similar and very different from Equestria. Everyone there acts a lot like the ponies here, but almost nobod-pony has any magic or any wings, and the ponies there look very...different."

"Wow," Apple Bloom eyes shined. "That's so cool!"

Sunset smiled at the little filly. "Glad you think so."

"So Sunset," Applejack spoke. "This is your first time comin' to Ponyville, right? What do you think of our little ole town so far?"

Sunset smiled. "It's wonderful."

"Happy to hear that, Sunset," Applejack tipped her hat. "We here at Ponyville try our best to make our guests feel welcome."

Sunset smiled.

"Speakin' of makin' our guests feel welcome," Granny Smith spoke up. "Have you offered our guests any refreshments, Applejack?"

"Oh, horse shoes! How could I have forgotten?! Pardon me," Applejack ran to the pantry and quickly returned carrying many snacks. "Are you two hungry? We've got-" Applejack began to drop the snacks in front of Sunset. "Apple pie, apple fritters, apple tarts, apple dumplings, apple crisp, apple crumblers, and apple brown betty!"

Sunset just stared at the mountain of apple food that before her. "Thanks but Twilight took me to eat before we came."

The Apples responded with a collective "Aw."

"Are you sure you don't have any room for brunch?" Apple Bloom asked. "Ah made the pie just for you."

"I'm sorry. It's not that I don't want it, it's just that I already..." Sunset looked into Apple Bloom's puppy-eyes. "You know what? I actually do feel like having some dessert."

The Apples cheered with a collective "Yay!"

As Applejack began to pass the food around the table, Sunset turned to Twilight and whispered. "They sure are friendly."

"Mm-hmm," Twilight nodded.

"Enjoy," Applejack passed Sunset her plate. "Would you like anythin' else, Sunset?"

"No, thank you. This is more than-" A thought suddenly popped into Sunset's head. "Actually..." Sunset turned her attention to Granny Smith. "Hey Granny Smith, were you really part of the pilgrim ponies that founded Ponyville"

"Sure am."

"I would really like to hear your story about that if you don't mind."

"Oh! Ah love that story!" Apple Bloom added.

"Hehe. Well, why not?" Granny Smith answered.

Sunset passed a quick smile to Twilight who responded with a little wink.

The table's occupants turned their attention to Granny Smith as she began her story. "Long ago, when Ah was a little pony..."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Thanks for everything!" Twilight shouted.

"It was really nice meeting all of you!" Sunset waved.

"You're welcome!" Applejack answered. "It was nice meetin' you, too! Come back soon!" Applejack and the rest of the Apples waved goodbye.

"Of course! Bye!" Sunset and Twilight began to walk out of Sweet Apple Acres. Once they made it past the gates, Twilight decided to check up on her friend.

"How are you feeling?" Twilight asked.

Sunset gagged. "I think I ate too much pie."

"Haha. I know that feeling," Twilight patted Sunset's shoulder. "Think you'll be okay?"

"I think I'll be fine in a little while. Just please don't show me any more food."

"I'll try."

Sunset took a few deep breaths and stood upright. "I like them. They're really friendly," Sunset's stomach churned. "Perhaps too friendly. They're definitely a lot like the other Apples, only Big Macintosh is a lot more red here."

"Ha. I actually thought the same thing when I met the other Macintosh. It looked like Apple Bloom really liked you."

"Must be my magnetic personality," Sunset joked. "She kept asking me about the other world."

"You didn't seem to mind."

"Well, I can't say I blame her. How would you react to meeting a pony from another world?"

"Very true. I probably would've asked more questions than she did."

"Eeeexactly," Sunset elbowed Twilight. "So, where are we heading next?"

"We're actually near where we're supposed to be," Twilight looked up the sky. "Hmm. But I don't see her anywhere."

Sunset looked around as well, finding nothing but clouds and the sun. "Who are you looking for?"

"Rainbow Dash," Twilight answered. "She's supposed to be clearing the sky in this area right now, but I don't see her."

Rainbow Dash?! Sunset looked around again. "I don't see her either. Where could she be?"

"She's got to be around here somewhere. Keep a looking. Let me know if you see anything."

"Will do," Sunset resumed searching. I don't see her anywhere. What could she possibly be do-

*WHACK!* Sunset was suddenly tackled to the ground by some great, aerial force.

"Sunset!" Twilight shrieked.

"I think I found her..." Sunset mumbled.

"Rainbow Dash!" A small voice called from behind Twilight. "Are you okay?!"

"I'm fine, Scootaloo," Rainbow picked herself up and flexed out her wings. "Looks like I still got some practice to do on that one."

"Looks like it," Scootaloo caught up to mares. "But still, that was awesome!"

"You think so?" Rainbow Dash looked a little smug. "Well, I guess I do have that kind of-"

"Rain. Bow. Dash," Twilight scolded.

"Huh? Oh, hey Twilight! What's up?" Twilight pointed her hoof at the unicorn lying on ground. "Oh...Whoops," Rainbow helped Sunset get back on her feet. "Hehehe...Excuse me."

"Are you all right, Sunset?" Twilight sounded worried. 

"I'm fine. A little dizzy but fine," Sunset then turned her attention to her assailant. "That's one way to introduce yourself."

"Hehe. Sorry about that. I was working on a new trick, and I guess I overshot the final turn."

"I see," It's really not something I'm not used to with the other you. Sunset dusted herself off and extended her foreleg. "I'm Sunset Shimmer. You must be Rainbow Dash."

"The one and only," Rainbow gave Sunset a hoof bump. "High flyer, daredevil, and proud member of the Wonderbolts."

"So I've heard," Sunset turned her attention to the other pegasus. "And you must be Scootaloo."

"Yup! That's me!" Sunset gave Scootaloo a hoof bump. "Are you friend of Rainbow Dash?"

"Ha. Not yet, but I hope to be. Looks like you are, though."

"I am," Scootaloo nodded.

"Are you her sister?"

Scootaloo shyly kicked the ground. "Ha. Yeah, you could say that."

Sunset chuckled. It's cute wherever she does it.

"Haha. All right, all right. 'Nough teasing," Rainbow came in. "So, you're Twilight's fillyfriend, huh? It's about time you came for a visit. Twilight hasn't stop blabbing about you since the last time she crossed the portal."

"Rainbow!" Twilight flushed.

"Haha," Same sense of humor. "I've been meaning to, but things have been really busy for me on the other side. My school work just seems to pile up the second I even think about coming for a visit."

"Come on, school shouldn't be taking up that much of your time."

"Sorry Rainbow, but I like to give my absolute best effort to all of my responsibilities," Sunset began to smirk. "Unlike some ponies."

"Hey," Rainbow sensed an insult. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Aren't you supposed to be in charge of maintaining the weather in Ponyville?"

"Yeah? So?"

"So," Sunset looked up. "Twilight told me that the sky is supposed to be clear for my visit, yet I see a lot of clouds floating around up there."

"Is that all? Don't worry, I'll clear it up after me and Scootaloo are done practicing."

"Why can't you do it now?" Sunset challenged.

"I said I'd do it later."

"What's the matter? You afraid you'll embarrass yourself in front of me?"

"Hey," Rainbow Dash had enough. "I can clear the sky in ten seconds flat."

"Is that all?" Sunset shook her head. "Please. I expected a lot more from a Wonderbolt."

Rainbow Dash gave Sunset one intense stare. "Scootaloo, get the timer ready," Scootaloo pulled out her stopwatch. "Just WATCH me."

"Aaaand..." Scootaloo prepared. "Go!"

Rainbow Dash skyrocketed into the air and began to eliminate every cloud over Ponyville. Rainbow would kick one cloud into oblivion and then speed across the sky to kick another. One by one, the clouds of Ponyville disappeared until there was nothing left but a clear blue sky.

"Time!" Rainbow Dash descended down near the others. "How fast was that?"

Scootaloo checked her stopwatch. "Eight and a half seconds!"

"Ha!" Rainbow gloated. "That fast enough for ya, Sunset?!"

Sunset was speechless. "That...was...AMAZING! You so were quick! I-I mean I knew you were fast, but I didn't think you were this fast! The way you soared through the sky, I-I've never seen anything like it! Rainbow Dash, I think you're fastest flyer, no, the fastest pony I've ever seen!"

"Yeah, yeah," Rainbow rubbed her hoof on her chest. "I know. Listen, I'd love stay here and chat," Rainbow hovered over to her sidekick. "But Scootaloo and I have some more practice to do," Rainbow began to fly away. "Cool meeting ya, Sunset. We should hangout some more some time. Catch ya later!" Rainbow Dash flew away.

"Nice meeting you, Sunset," Scootaloo hopped on her scooter. "See ya!" Scootaloo rode after Rainbow Dash. "Hey, wait up!"

"Bye!" Sunset waved as Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo disappeared into the distance.

Twilight trotted up beside Sunset, giggling. "Why'd you do that?"

"Hmm? Do what?" Sunset innocently asked.

"Haha. You know. I've told you how fast Rainbow Dash is in this world. Why'd you challenge her like that?"

Sunset shrugged. "I just wanted to see it for myself. You weren't kidding. Rainbow Dash is definitely the fastest pony I've seen. She's definitely Wonderbolt material."

"I see," Twilight giggled. "Just promise me you won't challenge Rarity to make the most beautiful dress you've ever seen."

"Oh, she's next on your list?"

"Mm-hmm."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Wow," Sunset admired the exterior design of the Carousel Boutique. "Now this place looks pretty fancy."

"Haha. Just wait until you see the inside," Twilight chuckled as she knocked on Carousel Boutique's door.

"Could you get that, Sweetie Belle? I'm a little occupied at the moment."

"Sure!" Twilight and Sunset heard hoofsteps coming closer to the door. The Carousel Boutique's doors opened to reveal the smiling young unicorn, Sweetie Belle, ready to greet just about anypony.

"Hello, Sweetie Belle," Twilight greeted. 

"Hi, Twilight!' Sweetie Belle looked past Twilight. "Hi, Spike! Wait..." Sweetie stared at Sunset. "Heeeey, you're not Spike," Sweetie tapped her chin. "And you're not Starlight, neither. Who are you?"

"Hehe. No, sorry. My name is Sunset Shimmer."

"Ooooh, that's right," Sweetie bopped her head. "Rarity said that you and Twilight were coming for a visit," Sweetie smiled. "I'm Sweetie Belle. Nice to meet you, Sunset Shimmer."

"Ha. Nice to meet you too, Sweetie Belle," She's so cute. "May we come inside?"

"Sure! Right this way, please," Sunset and Twilight followed Sweetie Belle inside. "Wait here. I'll be right back," Sweetie Belle ran upstairs.

After Sweetie left, Sunset decided to take a stroll around the Carousel Boutique. Sunset admired the boutique's interior decor and unique gowns so much, she couldn't help but whistle. "Very impressive. This is a dress shop if I've ever saw one."

Sunset and Twilight heard a faint knock coming from the second floor. "Who was it, Sweetie Belle?"

"It's Twilight and her friend. They're here to see you."

"Already?! My word, they've arrived much sooner than I expected. Tell them I'll be down soon. I'm just about finished here."

"Okay!" Sweetie Belle ran back downstairs. "She'll be here shortly. She's just finishing up one of her dresses."

"That's fine," Twilight said. "Thank you, Sweetie Belle."

"You're welcome," Sweetie Belle trotted over to Sunset. "Are you really Twilight's very special somepony, Sunset?"

Sunset giggled. Well, she's not beating around the bush. "Yes," Sunset answered with a bit of a blush. "I am."

"Aw. That's so sweet," Sweetie hummed.

"Why, thank you Sweetie Belle," Sunset smiled.

"You're welcome. But why are you here visiting my sister? Shouldn't you and Twilight be on a romantic dinner date by the beach or something?"

Sunset amusingly rolled her eyes. Yup, definitely Rarity's sister. "Well, Twilight and I thought it would be a good idea for me to meet all her friends here in Ponyville."

"Oh, okay. That way they'll be your friends, too."

"Exactly."

"That's really nice," Sweetie Belle drooped a little. "I'm sorry my sister isn't ready yet. She doesn't mean to be late."

"I don't mind. I can tell she's a busy mare," Sunset looked around the Carousel Boutique again. "I really like your sister's work."

"Really?"

"Totally," Sunset strolled by some of the gowns in the window displays. "Look at these...I haven't seen dresses this beautiful since I was in Canterlot."

Sweetie Belle perked up. "If you really like them, I'm sure my sister would be more than happy to make a dress just for you, Sunset."

Sunset sighed. "That does sound nice Sweetie Belle, but I don't really have any bits right now."

"Awe," Sweetie frowned. "That's too bad."

"I know. Maybe another time, Sweetie Belle."

"You know Sunset," Twilight spoke up. "If you really want one, I could cover the cost."

Sunset gratefully shook her head. "Absolutely not, Twilight."

"I wouldn't mind, Sunset."

"I know you wouldn't, but I would."

"It wouldn't be a problem. I have plenty bits, and I think you'd look wonderful in one of Rarity's dresses."

"Yeah!" Sweetie Belle hopped. "I'm sure you'd look really pretty."

"Hmm. You really think so?" Sunset thought. "Well...these dresses really are nice..."

Twilight and Sweetie slowly leaned in. "Uh-huh."

"And I never really dressed up before back when I lived in Canterlot..."

"Uh-huuuuh."

"And I'm sure Rarity would make the perfect dress just for me..."

"Uh-huuuuuuuuh."

Sunset breathed out. "But still, no."

"Awwwwww."

"I'm sorry Twilight, but I just can't ask that of you," Sunset looked back at the beautiful, teal dress beside her. "It's too much, even if these dresses are soooo..." Sunset turned back to her friends and saw something that really caught her eye. "Gorgeous."

Sunset saw what had to be the most lovely, beautiful pony she had ever laid her eyes on descending from the Canterlot Boutique's staircase. She had a beautifully curled indigo mane, a luscious curly tail, a wonderful snow-white coat, and the most brilliant, gorgeous blue eyes Sunset had ever seen. Just who was this magnificent unicorn?

"Uh," Twilight raised her eyebrow. "What was that Sunset?"

"Is my mane okay?" Sunset asked.

"What?"

"Helloooo," The unicorn reached the bottom floor. "I am so sorry for keeping you all waiting. I was working on one of the most complex orders I have ever had," The unicorn apologized as she approached the group. "You must be Sunset Shimmer," She held out her hoof. "A pleasure finally making your acquaintance. I am Rarity. Though," She giggled. "I'm guessing you already knew that."

Sunset stood there, dumbfounded. She's Equestria's Rarity?! Sweet Celestia...She makes one, beautiful pony. "Uh, yes!" Sunset nervously shook Rarity's hoof. "Yes, I am Sunset Shimmer. Uh, p-pleasure meeting you, too," I was not prepared for this today.

"Twilight has told me so much about you. I am so glad you came to visit."

Sunset lit up. "Really?"

"Of course! Your adventures in the other world just sound so fascinating. I would love to hear more about them from you."

Sunset stuttered. "I-I'd be delighted to tell you more about them."

Twilight glared at the two unicorns. "I'm sorry Sunset, but I don't think we really have any time for-"

"Fantastic!" Rarity beamed. "And in exchange, I'll do something special just for you." 

That got Sunset excited. "What?"

"Well, I didn't mean to eavesdrop, but I couldn't help but overhear you having a conversation about my dresses. Do you like them, Sunset?"

"Yes!" Sunset nodded. "I really love your dresses."

"Well, here's what's going to happen; I'm going to make a special dress that's just for you. It will be beautiful, unique, and just for you," Sunset tried to speak. "Don't try to stop me. My decision has been made. I won't take no for an answer."

Twilight didn't seem to like Rarity's offer as much as Sunset did. "That's very generous of you Rarity, but unfortunately, Sunset can't-"

"But I don't have the bits, Rarity," Sunset moped.

"Not a problem," Rarity replied. "I'll make a special dress for you at no charge."

Sweetie Belle hopped in. "That's perfect! Now you can get a dress without having to worry about spending Twilight's money, Sunset!"

"Good thing, too. I think I just remembered I need the bits," Twilight grumbled.

"What was that, Twilight?" Rarity asked.

Twilight put on her straightest face. "I said 'That's great!' Just. Great."

"Oh, that's what I thought you said," Rarity turned her attention back to Sunset. "Now, we'll need to schedule a fitting for you."

"I'm free anytime," Sunset sounded giddy.

"Wonderful!"

"Wow Sunset," Sweetie Belle started. "I bet you're going to look so pretty."

"Indeed," Rarity agreed. "The vision I have for your dress is simply divine. It shall be my greatest creation yet."

"Well...Thank you!" Sunset mustered. "It'd be an honor to wear one of your dresses."

Rarity giggled and turned to Twilight. "Oh Twilight, she's wonderful."

Twilight glared. "Yup. Absolutely magnificent."

"In fact," Rarity got an idea. "How about we all go to spa in celebration of our new friendship?"

Sunset and Sweetie Belle beamed at Rarity's idea, but Twilight didn't seem too enthusiastic.

"Thank you Rarity, but Sunset and I are on a very tight schedule," Twilight began to tug Sunset toward the exit. "We better get going."

"Are you sure?" Rarity asked. "Couldn't you at least stay a little longer for some tea and cookies?"

"That does sound nice," Sunset immediately answered.

"Tight schedule, Sunset," Twilight continued to wrestle Sunset toward the Carousel Boutique's exit. "Thank you for the your time, you two."

"You're welcome!" Sweetie Belle waved.

"Ta-ta!"

"Bye," Sunset gave Rarity one tiny wave with her hoof before Twilight finally dragged Sunset out with one final pull. "Whoa!"

With that, Rarity and Sweetie Belle were left alone.

"Well, she was delightful," Rarity said.

"Yeah, she seems really nice," Sweetie agreed. "I really liked her mane."

"So did I. It was quite lovely. Although," Rarity began to head for her staircase again. "Did she seem a little off to you?"

"What do you mean?"

"I'm not sure. I felt that she was a little...shaken by my presence."

"I don't know," Sweetie Belle shrugged. "Maybe she was just intimidated of meeting one of Twilight's friends."

"Hmm," Rarity thought. "Perhaps."

~Outside the Carousel Boutique~

"Well, glad that's over," Twilight let Sunset out of her grasp.

"Aw. That was my favorite visit yet," Sunset noticed Twilight's glare. "Something wrong, Twilight?" Twilight raised her eyebrow, knowing Sunset should be fully aware of the problem. "Okay, sorry! I got a little carried away there."

"Hmph!" Twilight closed her eye and began to march away.

Sunset ran up to her. "I'm sorry! It won't happen again. I'll make it up to you. I promise," Twilight kept her eyes closed. "I'll do anything. Please, Twilight?" Twilight stayed silent. "Please?" Sunset's eyes pleaded.

Twilight cracked open her eyes and stared at Sunset but didn't say anything. She just stared. Sunset was growing increasingly nervous. Just as Sunset was about to speak up again, Twilight grabbed her cheeks and planted the quickest little kiss on Sunset's nose.

"You are just the cutest little thing," Twilight began to trot away, humming happily.

Sunset could do nothing but look as Twilight skipped away. What...just happened?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"So this is where Fluttershy lives?" Sunset looked at the giant-tree-turned-cottage.

"Mm-hmm."

Sunset noticed the forest nearby. "By the Everfree Forest? Isn't that kind of dangerous?"

"Well, Fluttershy likes to care for the woodland critters, so she stays here where she can help them the most. Besides," Twilight began to trot. "We've gotten used to the Everfree Forest over time."

Sunset thought. "I guess that makes sense."

Twilight and Sunset made their way up to Fluttershy's cottage and knocked on her door. After a few moments, the door slowly creaked open, revealing only a single cyan eye.

"Hello? Oh Twilight, it's you," The door opened to reveal the rest of Fluttershy. "And you must be Sunset Shimmer. Please, come in," Sunset and Twilight entered. "I'm sorry I didn't answer the door sooner. You came earlier than I expected."

"Don't worry. It's our fault. We came early because..." Sunset took a quick glance at Twilight and re-thought her next words Choose wisely, Sunset. "Because our last visit had to be cut short."

Twilight nodded. Good save.

"I understand," Fluttershy said. "Oh, where am I manners? My name's Fluttershy. It's so nice to meet you, Sunset Shimmer."

"It's nice to meet you too, Fluttershy. Sorry we showed up sooner than you thought we would. I hope we didn't intrude on anything."

"Not at all," Fluttershy smiled. "And I don't mind. You just caught me a little unprepared is all."

"I'm sorry. Is there anything I can do to help?"

"Hmm," Fluttershy thought. "Yes, there is. Could you two follow me into the kitchen, please?"

"Of course."

Sunset and Twilight followed Fluttershy into her small kitchen. Looking inside, it was apparent that Fluttershy had been preparing some sort of meal. Her table was filled with a kettle, tea cups, a stack of plates, and a few other plates carrying sandwiches, cupcakes, and tea cakes.

Sunset internally chuckled. Why is everypony trying to feed me?

Fluttershy approached her table and began to speak. "Could you please help me carry all this out back?"

"Sure."

"I'd be happy to."

"Thank you," Fluttershy smiled. "Twilight, why don't you take kettle? Be careful though, it's hot. Thank you. And Sunset, could you carry the-" Before Fluttershy could finish her sentence, a cyan aura surrounded all of her dishes and began to levitate them all in the air. "Or you could just do that. Seems efficient."

Sunset relished the moment. Oh, it feels so good being able to do this at will again.

"Follow me, please," Fluttershy led Twilight and Sunset through her back door and into her backyard toward the Everfree Forest.

As they were treading closer to the Everfree Forest, Sunset and Twilight noticed a very peculiar scene; a bear, a bunny, a squirrel and a duck seemed to have been having a picnic just outside the forest's domain, and the ponies were heading straight for them.

"You can set everything at the center of the blanket," Fluttershy said. Sunset and Twilight did just that. As each of the animals took a plate and cup, Fluttershy began to speak to them. "Hello everypony," Fluttershy greeted the critters. "It looks like our guests have arrived a little earlier than we expected. Allow me to introduce you to Sunset Shimmer," The animals all waved to Sunset. "Sunset, my friends and I have prepared a nice little picnic just for you. We hope you like it."

Sunset observed the scenery. Huh. A picnic with Fluttershy and bunch of woodland critters. Can't say I've ever done that before. Well, unless I count having lunch with the other Fluttershy at the animal shelter that one time. Nonetheless, "I do, Fluttershy. It looks really nice. Thank you."

"Oh, you're very welcome. Please, have a seat."

Sunset and Twilight sat down between the bunny and bear. The animals were awfully kind to the two ponies; before either of them could levitate any of the dishes, the bunny and the squirrel were passing them tea cups while the duck and the bear were offering them sandwiches and cookies.

"Thank you, Mr. Bunny," Sunset grabbed a cookie.

Fluttershy suddenly looked upset. "Oh my goodness, I forgot the carrots. I'm sorry. I'll be right back," Fluttershy began to trot back to her cottage. "Oh Fluttershy, you can be so inconsiderate sometimes."

Sunset chuckled after hearing Fluttershy criticize herself. "It looks like both Fluttershy's do that," The bunny then came up to Sunset and offered her a sandwich. "Thank you again, Mr. Bunny."

"His name is Angel," Twilight said.

"Angel?"

"Mm-hmm," Twilight took a sip of tea. "Fluttershy has a lot of woodland friends, but he's Fluttershy's personal pet."

"Oh, that's right. The other Fluttershy had a pet bunny, too. I guess that explains why he's so nice."

Twilight looked suspiciously at Angel. Actually, I have no idea why he's being so kind to you. Twilight squinted her eyes at the bunny. Just what are you planning, rabbit? You better not hurt her.

"He's so cute," Sunset began to tickle Angel's stomach, causing him squirm and laugh. "Aw, you're adorable."

Twilight stared as Angel wiggled in joy under Sunset's hoof. Okay, that's pretty cute. Twilight left Sunset and Angel to their fun and looked up at the bear. "Harry, could you pass me a tea cake, please?"

"I'm back," Fluttershy returned with plate full of carrots. "Here you are, Angel. Oh, I've see you've made a new friend."

"Hehe. Looks like it," Sunset stopped tickling. "Why don't you go eat some carrots?" Angel looked a little upset. "We can play more later. I promise," Angel seem satisfied with that answer and hopped away to his meal.

"Are you enjoying yourself, Sunset?" Fluttershy asked.

"Definitely. It's been a long time since I've had a picnic in Equestria," Sunset thought. "Actually, I don't think I've ever had picnic in Equestria. Haha. This is really nice."

Fluttershy smiled. "I'm glad you like it," Sunset nodded. "So, what have you and Twilight been doing today? If um...you don't mind me asking."

"Hehe. I don't mind. Twilight's been taking me around Ponyville and introducing me to her friends."

"That's nice," Fluttershy took a sip of her tea. "But why? Don't you already know us in the other world?" Fluttershy quickly covered her mouth. "Oops. I wasn't supposed to say that."

"It's all right," Sunset chuckled. "It's true; you all act and look a lot like my friends in the other world, but you're definitely not the same as them. Trust me, I've noticed. You all have different roles, abilities, and environments here, and they've all impacted you in such ways that make you all unique," Sunset took a sip of tea. "You all may be my friends' counterparts, but you're not their clones; you're still your own pony, and I really would like to get to know each of you," Sunset's eyes seem to brighten. "And I hope that we can be friends."

Fluttershy warmly smiled. "I understand, and I would love to be your friend, as I'm sure the others would."

"Thank you, Fluttershy," Sunset softly said.

"You're very welcome. Why don't you tell me more about yourself? From what's Twilight has told me, you're a very interesting pony, and I'd really like to get to know you more."

"Sure!" Let's see, where to begin? As Sunset was thinking, Angel hopped in front of her, shyly patting his stomach. "Already?" Angel's eyes pleaded. "Hehe. Oh, all right. Fluttershy, could you wait for just a few minutes?"

"Of course."

Sunset began to tickle Angel's stomach again, making Angel squirm and laugh in ecstasy.

As Sunset played with Angel, Fluttershy and Twilight looked toward one another and gave each other an accomplished wink.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Celestia's sun favored the west as Twilight and Sunset trotted down Ponyville's market place again, heading toward their final visit. Ponyville felt strangely empty as most of its citizens were nowhere to be seen. Sunset didn't really notice, though. She had another things on her mind.

"Are you sure we should do this?" Sunset looked concerned.

"Positive."

"But she ran away earlier. Maybe she doesn't want to be my friend."

"It'll be fine," Twilight assured. "I promise. I'll be right here with you."

Sunset slowly nodded. "Okay."

Sunset and Twilight trotted through Ponyville's marketplace and approached Sugarcube Corner. Sunset felt more uneasy with every passing step. This feeling of anxiety heightened when she and Twilight finally reached the sweet shop. Here we are. With some hesitation, Sunset slowly lifted her hoof and creaked open the door. It was dark.

Sunset couldn't see anything inside. "Maybe they're closed."

"They shouldn't be. Sugarcube Corner is supposed to be open for another few hours."

"Well, it certainly doesn't look open."

"Hmm. Maybe they're back in the kitchen. Let's go see."

"Huh?" Sunset derped. "You can't be serious."

"I am."

Sunset stared at Twilight, flabbergasted. "Twilight, it's dark, quiet, and, most all, creepy in there. Those are never good signs together. I'm not going in."

"But Pinkie Pie could be back there."

Sunset gulped. "...Fine. But if I hear a chainsaw, we're leaving."

"Deal."

Sunset slowly stepped hoof into the darkness, moving one cautious step after another. "Which way is the kitchen?" Sunset whispered.

"It's around back."

"Okay," Sunset continued tiphoofing into Sugarcube Corner. As she wandered deeper inside, Sunset was getting the most dreadful feeling that they weren't alone; someone was watching them. "Twilight, this is getting really uncomfortable. It's just too dark in here. Where's the light switch?" *Flick.* "DAH!"

"SURPRIIIISE!!!"

"Huh?" Sunset Shimmer found herself surrounded by many of Ponyville's citizens. "Surprise? What's everypony doing here? What's going on?"

"It's youuurr-"

That voice. "Pinkie Pie?"

Pinkie suddenly appeared in front of Sunset. "Welcome to Ponyville party, Sunset Shimmer!"

"Welcome to Ponyville party?"

Twilight stepped forward. "That's right!"

"Twilight?" Sunset said. "You knew about this?"

"Knew about it?" Pinkie interjected. "She planned it!"

"She did?"

"Uh-huh! When Twilight found out that you were finally coming to visit her after all this time, she got all excited and happy and began to hop all around her castle saying-" Pinkie began hop around Sunset. "'Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!' But then she realized that she had to start planning out your day together and make it really fun because she wants you to stay and be her lover and-"

"Pinkie!" Twilight scolded.

"Oh. Haha. Sorry," Pinkie took her enthusiasm down a notch. "Anyway, Twilight thought it would be a good idea for you to tour Ponyville and meet her friends and then end the day with a big party with all of your new friends," Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy all appeared and stood beside Twilight and Pinkie, smiling at Sunset.

"So Sunset..." Twilight stepped closer. "What do you think?"

"I think...," A teardrop fell from Sunset's face. "It's the nicest thing anypony has ever done for me. Thank you," Sunset gave Twilight a hug.

"You're welcome," Twilight hugged back.

"But there's still one thing I want to know," Sunset let go.

"Huh? What?"

"Why did Pinkie Pie runaway from me earlier?"

"I...actually have no idea. Seriously Pinkie, what WAS that about?!"

Pinkie shrugged. "I just saw you two walking by, and when I realized that I didn't recognize Sunset, I figured that she had to be Sunset, and I should probably go get the preparations for her party ready before you stop by to visit me."

"...Makes sense," Sunset and Twilight simultaneously shrugged.

"Sorry. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings, Sunset."

"It's fine. I felt like I was coming on too strong anyway," Sunset paused and looked around. "What's everypony just staring at me for? Aren't we supposed to be having a party?!"

"Oh, I knew I'd like you!" Pinkie pulled out two party cannons. "Let's party!" Pinkie fired confetti all across the room, starting the party.

Sunset chuckled. Maybe some things are exactly alike in both worlds.

As the other ponies were beginning to dance and socialize, Sunset felt somepony tap the back of her shoulder. She turned around to see Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy standing behind her.

"Howdy there, Sunset. We hope your enjoyin' your party."

"Ha. I am," Even though it just started.

"We're sorry to bother you, Sunset," Fluttershy began. "But we were just wondering if we could all ask you something."

"Sure. What is it?"

The ponies glanced at each other and looked back at Sunset.

"Well," Rarity flipped her mane. "We hope you'll forgive us for not asking this earlier darling, but believe us, we've been wanting to ask you this all day."

Rainbow Dashed rubbed the back of her head. "The reason we haven't is because we kinda promised Twilight that we wouldn't ask until the party."

Fluttershy hid behind her mane. "Because she was afraid you'd be uncomfortable with us asking when just met."

Pinkie hopped in from out of nowhere. "But now we're friends, and the party is here," Confetti exploded behind Pinkie. "So now we're allowed to ask."

Applejack took off her hat. "And we really hope our question doesn't bother you, Sunset. We really do see you as our friend, and we hope you don't mind us askin'."

"I'm sure I won't," Sunset looked at her friends. "What is it?"

The ponies glanced at each other, looked back at Sunset, and simultaneously asked "Can you tell us about the other us, please?"

Sunset humorously rolled her eyes. Of course. "Who wants to know first?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

Sunset levitated a cup of punch from the food table and trotted over to Twilight.

"Why the long face, Twilight? Aren't you having fun?"

"Huh?" Twilight was brought back to reality. "Oh, sorry Sunset. I've just been thinking."

"About?"

"Well, I don't know why, but I have the strangest feeling that maybe, just maybe, something is missing."

"That's weird," Sunset took a sip. "Any ideas?" Sunset suddenly felt a burning sensation in her mouth. "Whoa!" Sunset coughed. "That's hot!Ow, that's really hot! What's in this punch?! My mouth is on fire! Sorry Twilight, but I've got to find some water!" Sunset ran off.

Not again. Twilight shook her head. Seriously, who keeps spiking the punch bowl with hot sauce?......Spiked. Twilight repeated. "Spike!" Twilight jumped up. "Has anypony seen Spike or Starlight?"

Everypony looked at each other unsurely and made apologetic gestures to Twilight.

"That's strange," Twilight looked worried. "They're supposed to be here. Where are they?"

"Twiliihiihiight! A voice cried from the outside.

That voice. "Spike?!" Twilight ran out the doors and frantically searched for her assistant. "Spike, where are you?!"

"Twilight!" Spike ran toward Sugarcube Corner. "Twilight, it's back!"

"What's wrong, Spike?! What's back?"

"The bugbear, Twilight! The bugbear!"

"What?!"

Twilight looked toward the direction Spike came from and soon enough, the bugbear made its horrific return to Ponyville, growling, ready to restart its cruel reign of terror. It didn't come alone, though: Starlight was levitating around its head, blasting the bugbear with a magic beam attack and just narrowly avoiding its deadly claws.

"Get back, you beast!" Starlight blasted it again. The bugbear countered with another claw swipe. Starlight easily dodged but was unprepared for its second claw swipe attack from its second left arm. "Whoa!" Starlight quickly cast a shield spell to protect herself from the second attack. Starlight wasn't harmed, but the force of the attack pushed her down to the ground in front of Twilight. "That thing is tougher than it looks."

"Yes, the bugbear is a very formidable opponent," Twilight turned her head back toward the inside of Sugarcube Corner. "Everyone! The bugbear has returned!" Everypony inside gasped. "My friends and I are going to stop it, but until then, everypony else has to stay inside. The bugbear is much too dangerous," The party-goers all took cover. "Come on girls!" Twilight led her friends out the of party and into battle.

Applejack charged in first. She pulled out her rope and attempted to lasso the bugbear. "Didn't you learn your lesson the last time out?" Applejack threw her rope and successfully lassoed the bugbear's top left arm. "Yee-haw!" Applejack pulled the rope and made the bugbear struggle to stay up. "You're up, Rainbow!"

"I'm on it!" Rainbow Dash flanked the bugbear from its right side with a powerful hind-leg kick. "That's for that cheap bite you pulled on me last time!"

"May I be of assistance?" Rarity attacked the bugbear with her stunning blue magic blasts and followed up with a double hind leg buck to the its stomach. "Take that you ruffian!" The bugbear countered by grabbing Rarity and holding her tightly on his side. "Put me down!" She struggled. "I refuse to be your hostage again!"

The bugbear felt a gentle tap on its shoulder. "Um, excuse me Mr. Bugbear," The bugbear turned its head to see a trembling Fluttershy. "I'm sorry to bother you Mr. Bugbear, but today is really not a good time. You see, we have a visitor from out of town today, and she'd be very disappointed if your rampage ruined the special welcoming party we threw her. Besides, you were defeated last time, and I really don't want my friends and I have to hurt you again. Do you understand, Mr. Bugbear? Now, if you could just let Rarity go-" The bugbear roared and prepared to strike Fluttershy with its claws. "Eeep!"

"Hey, you leave her alone, bugbear!" Pinkie Pie growled. "Check this out!" Pinkie began to balance two spinning plates on sticks in each hoof while riding a unicycle. The bugbear actually seemed a little entranced by Pinkie's actions as stopped itself from attacking Fluttershy and began to just hover over the ground.

Seeing her opportunity, Fluttershy grabbed Rarity and swiftly flew away.

Pinkie Pie smirked. "Now, girls!"

Twilight and Starlight jumped out and unleashed two powerful magic beam blasts on the bugbear that sent it soaring over Ponyville.

"Whew!" Twilight wiped some sweat off her forehead. "Glad that's over," Twilight turned around to congratulate her friends. "Good job everypony. That should take care of him. Now we can go back and-"

"Look out!" Starlight shouted as she tackled Twilight onto the ground.

The bugbear had skydived back into Ponyville, sting first. Its sky attack pierced the ground and left it in shambles. Had it not been for Starlight, the bugbear would have surely stung Twilight.

"How?" Twilight shockingly breathed out. "The combined power of mine and Starlight's magic should've stopped it," Twilight picked herself up. "Be wary, girls. The bugbear is much stronger now than it was last time."

The bugbear began to hover again, glaring at the ponies like a hunter stalking its prey.

"Well, that didn't work. Any other ideas, Twilight?" Starlight asked.

"I'm thinking," Thoughts were racing through Twilight's mind. Okay, so it's powered up to the point of being able to resist both mine and Starlight's magic. Together. Unreal. Twilight shook her head. But that blast still sent it into the sky. It still felt the blast. We might still be able to fend it off again, but we're going to need more power. Where can we-

"Hey! You! Over here!" A voice shouted. The ponies and bugbear turned their attention toward the source of the sound to see a glaring Sunset standing on top of one of Ponyville's houses, staring down the bugbear. "Yeah, I'm talking to you, buggy! I was enjoying my first day in Equestria in moons until some half-insect, half-mammal monster started attacking my friends!" The bugbear roared. "Oh, so that's how you want it, huh? Bring it on, buggy!"

"Sunset!" Twilight yelled.

"I got this!" Sunset hastily replied.

Sunset vanished in a flash of cyan light and reappeared in front of the bugbear. As soon she appeared, Sunset wasted no time unleashing her own magical beam on the bugbear. The bugbear was pushed back, but it quickly recovered and charged forward toward Sunset. It moved in for a claw swipe, but Sunset easily evaded by teleportating again to the other side of the bugbear. "Missed me!"

The bugbear swiped again, and Sunset teleported again, only this time she was greeted by a swipe from one of the bugbear's extra arms. "Uh-oh!" Sunset cast a shield spell and got herself out of harm's way. However, the attack did manage to send Sunset to the ground. "That all you got?" Sunset's insults quickly faded as she looked up and saw the bugbear diving right at her, sting first. Sunset jumped to the side and dodged the attack. After evading, Sunset saw that the bugbear was still recovering its balance and blasted it again.

As she was blasting the bugbear, a strange feeling began to overtake Sunset. Everything around Sunset seemed to have slowed down. What...What is this sensation I'm feeling? It feels so...so familiar. The bugbear swiped again only to hit air as Sunset evaded with another teleportation spell. It's like my heart is being filled with some sort of rush of wild ecstasy. It's beating like crazy. Sunset evaded another one of the bugbear's attacks and blasted it again. I'm facing a monster, and I'm...I'm teleporting at will. I can cast spells as I please. I...I know what this feeling is. Sunset began to smirk as she continued fighting. I've only felt it in small increments in the other world, but right here, right now, as I face this beast...I'm feeling the entire sensation with no bars held! The bugbear charged again with its stinger, but Sunset seemed to have had no intention to move. Yes! Face me! Fill my heart with this sensation! For it's been far too long since I've felt the exhilaration...OF A REAL MAGICAL FIGHT!!!

Sunset shielded herself from the bugbear's sting attack and found herself being thrown back a mild distance into Ponyville's marketplace. As she was shaking off some the attack's rush, Sunset felt a hoof touch her shoulder.

"Are you okay, Sunset?" Twilight looked worried.

"Okay?! It's the best I've felt in moons!"

"Huh?"

"Hey Twilight," Sunset turned her head to the princess, grinning. "I don't think I can beat this thing."

"Don't worry, Sunset. I'm thinking of a way-"

"I already thought of a way," Sunset confidently said.

"A everything is going to be all ri-what?"

The bugbear charged in again. As the ponies rushed in to face their foe, Sunset held back Twilight and Starlight. "I think a little teamwork between the three of us will do just the trick! The combined magic of an alicorn and two talented unicorns should be more than enough send this bugbear back to hive-cave it came from!"

"That..." Starlight beamed. "That actually might work!"

"Yes, it will!" Twilight nodded. "If we can fly close enough to the bugbear and combine our power, we should be able to get rid of it!" Twilight looked over to Sunset. "Do you want us to carry you, Sunset?"

"Ha! Please," Sunset's horn lit up and she suddenly had a pair of phoenix-like wings. "I can fly."

Twilight's and Starlight's eyes were shining almost as much as Sunset's flaming wings. "Okay, enough gawking. Let's do this!"

Twilight and Starlight shook off their shock. "Right!"

Twilight, Sunset, and Starlight flew into the sky to confront the bugbear. It was busy ignoring Fluttershy's suggestions and dodging Rainbow Dash's attacks.

"Hey, buggy!" The bugbear turned its attention away from Rainbow Dash. "You're not rid of me just yet!" The bugbear growled.

"Rainbow!" Twilight yelled.

"Gotcha!" Rainbow Dash kicked the distracted bugbear. "Rarity! Applejack!"

"We're on it!" Applejack lassoed the bugbears right arms while Rarity magically tied up its left ones.

The bugbear struggled, but it could not break free. Things went from bad to worse for the bugbear when it noticed three ponies levitating in front of it.

"All right, buggy, here it comes! One magical trinity blast just for you!"

Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer, and Starlight Glimmer closed their eyes. Their horns glowed as they began to gather their magic energy. They opened their pure-white eyes and combined their magic to unleash to release a single, radiant beam that sent the bugbear flying over the horizon.

Pinkie Pie pointed at the soaring bugbear. "Looks like the bugbear is blasting off again!" *Twinkle.*

With that, Twilight, Sunset, and Starlight descended to the ground and gather with their friends.

"Whew," Starlight breathed out. "That was some rush. I don't think I've ever felt that much power before."

"Ha. It's quiet exhilarating, isn't it?" Twilight added.

Fluttershy came forward. "I hope it's okay."

"Don't worry, Fluttershy," Twilight comforted. "All we did was send it away. The bugbear will be fine."

Rainbow Dash scoffed. "Well, I hope it stays away this time. It tried to bite me again."

"Haha," Twilight shook her head. "Good job everypony, especially to you, Sunset. Your idea worked like a charm," Twilight's smile weakened a bit. "I hope you're not too upset about the bugbear ruining your party."

"Oh, not at all," Sunset commented. "In fact, do you or Starlight want have a magic duel?"

~End Chapter~
> About that...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Celestia's sun was beginning to set over Ponyville. Many ponies were starting to end their activities and close their shops. It had been a beautiful day to enjoy, but now it was time to rest at home and wait for the next day to come. Among the ponies returning home was a group of eight plus a dragon walking down the path to the Castle of Friendship.

"Again, I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have acted like that," Sunset apologized to Twilight and Starlight. "I let the adrenaline consume me."

"Ha. It's all right, Sunset," Twilight assured. "Your little episode helped save the day, after all."

"Although," Starlight cleared her throat. "I would like to take you up on that magic duel later."

"Really?!" Sunset's heart began to race. "Great! Why don't we have it-" STOP! Deep breaths, Sunset. "I mean uh, sure, Starlight. That sounds like it could be fun," The rest of the group laughed at Sunset's reply and continued down the road.

"Well, here we are," Twilight stood before her front doors. "Home sweet home."

"Welp, I guess this goodbye, Sunset," Applejack tipped her hat.

"Are you sure you guys don't want to come in?" Sunset's eyes glistened. "I'm not leaving for another a little while."

"Oh, no, no, no, no, Sunset," Rarity shook her head. "Thank you darling, but we think somepony else would prefer to have you for herself for the remainder of the evening," Rarity nodded her head toward a blushing Twilight.

"Oh..." Sunset's face turned red. "Right. Thank you."

Rainbow Dash hovered in. "But be sure to swing by Ponyville again soon. I've got plenty of more moves to show you."

"And we still have that fitting, darling."

"And I'm pretty sure Angel would like to see you again."

Sunset happily nodded. "I'll be back."

With that, Sunset and the others joined in for a group hug. They gently squeezed each other for a few moments and enjoyed the little time they had left together. Once their hug was over, the others turned around and began to leave.

"Goodbye, Sunset!" Each one of them said. "We're going to miss you!"

"Ha. You guys are the best! See ya later!" Sunset waved.

As Sunset was saying her goodbyes, Twilight leaned over to Spike and Starlight and whispered. "Did you two get everything ready?"

"Uh-huh."

"Of course."

"Great. Thank you."

"Aw. I miss them already," Sunset walked back up to Twilight.

"Will you be okay, Sunset?"

"Yeah, I'm fine," Sunset assured. "I'm ready for my tour of the castle, now."

"Are you sure? Well, let's head inside then," Twilight used her magic to open the doors to her castle. They all stepped inside and closed the doors behind them.

Spike stretched out his arms and yawned. "Welp, Starlight and I are going to the library to prepare your ride home. Better get started on it before I fall asleep," Spike and Starlight began to leave. "See you later."

"You two have fun," Starlight called back.

Sunset and Twilight waved goodbye and then gave each other a flirty look. Alone at last.

"So Princess, wilt thou do me the honor of showing me thy majesty's castle?"

"Oh, quiet you," Twilight lightly nudged. "I'd be happy to. Follow me, please."

Twilight led Sunset down the castle's hallways and showed her its various rooms on the ground-level floor. While interesting enough, this first part of the tour wasn't anything too spectacular. Most of the rooms were still vacant, and other doors Twilight opened were broom closets (one of which dropped a mop on Sunset's head). As they moved along, however, the tour grew increasingly interesting.

"And this is the kitchen. We do...pretty much what you'd expect in here. Hehe. I'm sorry if it looks a little burnt. Starlight and Pinkie had a bit of an accident the other day."

Sunset raised her eyebrow. "I'd ask, but something tells me I'd enjoy hearing Starlight's side of the story more."

"Ha. Maybe. If she tells you, would you mind asking her how she and Pinkie Pie made so many cakes during the brief time I was gone? I haven't really gotten a clear answer from her on that," Twilight chuckled.

"Ha. I'll try but I'm not sure if it's fair to assume you can get a clear answer from a question involving Pinkie Pie."

"...Fair point," Twilight admitted. "Well, moving along then."

Sunset followed Twilight out of the kitchen and back into the hallways. They returned back to the castle's entrance room and crossed it to the other side of the ground-level floor. They were approaching another door when Twilight stopped them.

"Now Sunset, I know the tour hasn't been the most interesting one we've had so far, but I assure you it's a bout to pick up starting here. This room we're about to enter is a real treat. Ever since the castle came to be, this room has been the starting point of most our adventures. It's also where the others and I hold a lot of our friendship meetings and learn where to find friendship problems all across Equestria. As you can probably tell, this room is very important, and it's important because of one special item inside. Do you know what this item is, Sunset?"

"I have a few guesses," Twilight definitely had Sunset's attention.

"Haha. Well, let's see if you're right," Twilight opened the door and led Sunset inside. "Sunset, I give you the Cutie Map!"

"Wow," There it was, the magical object that Twilight had mentioned a few times in her messages. The Cutie Map's existence always intrigued Sunset. It's connection to the mythical Tree of Harmony easily made it one of Equestria's most valuable and powerful assets. Sunset had wanted to see the map ever since she first heard of it, and there it was right in front of her. 

Sunset slowly approached the Cutie Map. It's just how Twilight described it. The map of Equestria, the seven chairs...everything. "This is really something, Twilight."

"Indeed."

"Please, tell me about it again."

"With pleasure," Twilight cleared her throat. "After defeating Tirek, the Tree of Harmony sent the magic key-box across Ponyville through a rainbow. The box was then planted into the ground and where it grew into this castle. When the others and I explored the castle, we found this room with seven chairs, six of which bared our cutie marks. At first, the chairs were the only things in here. It wasn't until the others and I sat on them together that the Cutie Map came to be."

"The Cutie Map watches over all of Equestria for friendship problems and notifies us when one arises. If the map detects a friendship problem, it will contact the ponies necessary for fixing the problem by signaling their cutie marks. The cutie marks of the chosen ponies will then hover over the area on the map where the problem is, and then the chosen ponies will travel to that area to find and solve the friendship problem." 

Sunset shook her head in disbelief. "I don't think I'll ever get tired of that story."

"It is pretty amazing, isn't it? But would you believe me if I told you that the map is only my second favorite thing in this room?"

"What?"

"Look up."

Sunset did just that and saw a very unique chandelier hanging above the Cutie Map. "Hey...That's the chandelier, isn't it?"

"Mm-hmm."

"I was so fixated on the map, I missed it."

Twilight giggled. "Why don't we take a closer look then?" Twilight began to fly up to the chandelier. 

"Sure!" Sunset cast her phoenix-wing spell again and joined Twilight. "I'm all ears."

Twilight nodded. "This chandelier is made from the roots of the Golden Oaks Library, my first home in Ponyville. After it was unfortunately destroyed by Tirek, I moved into the castle. As I said earlier, living here wasn't easy for me at first. The size, the floors, and the hallways, I was really out of my comfort zone. I actually began to spend as much time away from the castle as I could. Thankfully, my friends noticed my strange behavior and wanted to help. They told me to go have a relaxing day at the spa while they spruce things up here at the castle. When I returned, I saw this beautiful chandelier hanging over the map."

"Each ornament in this chandelier is a reminder of some of the happiest moments I've had with my friends," Twilight hovered over to a yellow ornament. "This one shows my welcoming party when I first came to Ponyville," Twilight then flew over to a blue one. "And this one shows my friends and I eating donuts after the Grand Galloping Gala," Twilight flew back to Sunset. "And I'm still adding more ornaments to this day. This chandelier inspires me to make new memories with all of my friends, and it was my first step to calling this castle home."

Sunset seemed to have been moved by Twilight's story. "That's really a nice story, Twilight."

"Thank you Sunset, but I'm not finished just yet," Twilight flew to a purple ornament. "Look at this one," Sunset flew over and observed. "What do you see?"

Sunset looked. "It looks like you're writing in a book, Twilight."

"Look a little closer."

Sunset squinted her eyes and gasped. "Hey, you're writing in your journal."

Twilight blushed. "This ornament shows me writing my first message to you after the battle of the bands," Twilight led Sunset to an orange ornament. "And this one shows me reacting when you told me you were coming to visit. You've given me some of the happiest moments of my life as well, Sunset."

Sunset smiled. "I'm...glad I have," Sunset's eyes twinkled.

Twilight began to smile as well. Now is the time. "Come with me, Sunset," Twilight place a hoof on Sunset's shoulder and teleportated them away in a purple flash of light.

They reappeared in another part of the castle, somewhere Sunset had not yet seen. "Whoa. Why'd you do that? Where are we?"

"We're still in the castle, Sunset. It's time for the final part of your tour. I've...really been wanting to show you something," Twilight pointed to a door behind Sunset.

Sunset looked at the door, interest peaked. "What is it?"

"Open it," Twilight smiled. "I think you're going to like it."

Sunset nodded and turned around to face the door. What could it be?

"You won't need your wings."

"Oh," Made her phoenix wings disappear. "Hehe...Right," Sunset turned her attention back to the door. Her horn glowed as she used her magic to open it. Sunset stepped inside. It was dark.

"There's a light switch on the left," Twilight said.

Sunset walked a little deeper inside the dark room and searched for the light switch. After feeling around with her hoof, Sunset found the light switch and flicked it up. The lights came on. What Sunset saw made her cover her mouth with both of her hooves and gasp. It...It can't be.

"It's...it's my room! This is my room!" Indeed. Sunset was standing in an exact replica of her room from back when she lived in Canterlot. "It's all here," Sunset galloped to a bookcase in the room. "Haycart's Treaties, Principles of Magic, Starswirl's Book on Transfiguration...Everything's here," Sunset took a few steps back and bumped into her mirror. She turned around and inspected the items the furniture carried. "My hairbrush, my globe...How did-?" Sunset looked up and saw her reflection. It was a sight she had not seen in a very long time. 

Sunset looked at herself for a long moment, studying her muzzle and mane. They were as bright and beautiful as she remembered. A smile slowly developed on Sunset's face. "Hello there, Sunset. Long time, no see. How are you doing? You're looking lovely today."

While having a nice conversation with herself, Sunset noticed the reflection of a bed in the mirror. Sunset turned around and sure enough, there was her bed, professionally crafted and covered with red blankets. Sunset walked over to it and lied herself down on her back. She snuggled on top of the blankets. Just as soft as I remember. Sunset breathed out and began to stare at the ceiling.

"Mind if I join you?" A voice beside the bed asked. 

"Ha. Sure, Twilight."

Twilight lied herself beside Sunset and began to look up as well. "Well, what do you think?"

"It's amazing, Twilight," Sunset shook her head in disbelief. "How in Equestria did you do all this?"

Twilight took a momentary pause. "Princess Celestia."

Sunset's smile disappeared. "...Oh."

"She had all your things kept in storage after you left. When I told her what I had planned, she gave me all of this and a photo of what your old room looked like."

"...That was nice of her."

Twilight turned to face Sunset. "You know, she's been wanting to see you, Sunset."

Sunset nodded. "...I know."

"Not right now, though. She said whenever you're ready."

Sunset continued nodding. "...Okay."

Twilight sighed. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to-"

"You have nothing to be sorry for, Twilight," Sunset grabbed Twilight's hoof. "Nothing at all. This...is the sweetest thing anypony has ever done for me," Sunset turned her head toward Twilight and gave her a little smile. "I can't thank you enough."

"There's no need to thank me," Twilight blushed. "I just wanted to make sure you had a room if you ever returned...When you return."

Sunset didn't say anything. Instead, she lifted her head lied it on Twilight's chest. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Twilight began to brush Sunset's mane with her hoof. "So, did you enjoy your first day in Ponyville?"

"It was great. Your friends are really nice."

"I'm glad you think so."

"Ha. They kept trying to feed me."

"Haha. They were just trying to make you feel welcome."

"I know but now I feel like my stomach is going to explode," Sunset rubbed her tummy. "Why did they all have to be good cooks?"

"Haha. Well, at least Starlight didn't try to feed you."

Starlight. Sunset began to giggle. "Hey, Twilight?"

"Hmm?"

Sunset lifted her head to face Twilight. "Want to hear a secret?"

"Ooooh, a secret?" Twilight squinted her eyes. "I'm listening."

Sunset began to blush. "I...I was..." Sunset was battling her giggles. "I may have been just a teeny bit...jealous when you first told me that Starlight was moving in with you."

"What?" Twilight stopped brushing. "No way! Why?"

Sunset shrugged. "Ha. I was afraid that she was...stealing you away from me."

"Hahaha! What?" Twilight couldn't believe it. "Oh Sunset, Starlight was never any threat to you."

"I know that now, but back then..." Sunset rubbed the back of her head. "I was worried."

Twilight chuckled. "There was nothing you ever needed to worry about. Starlight is a good student and a valued friend, but that's all she is to me, Sunset. A friend."

"I know, I know," Sunset rolled her eyes. "I like her. She's really nice. Looks like you taught her well."

"I'm trying my best," Twilight answered. "I just can't believe you got jealous."

Sunset pouted. "All right, I get it," She lied her head back down.

"I mean, if either us should be jealous here, it's me."

"What?" Sunset wasn't expecting that. "Why would you be jealous?"

"Uh, hello? You spend most of your time in a world that has an identical counterpart of me. Tell me you haven't been tempted. I dare you," Twilight giggled.

"Haha. Oh please, I wouldn't do that. She's not you."

"Hmm. Smart answer, buuuut..."

Sunset rolled her eyes. "Seriously, out of all the inter-dimensional counterparts, you two have to be the most different."

"Really?" That surprised Twilight. "How?"

Sunset thought. "Well, you're more confident than she is, and she's definitely more shy than you are. I don't know. It's a little hard to explain, but there are definitely differences. If you talked to her, I'm sure you'd see it."

"Ugh. Fine, I believe you," Twilight began to brush Sunset's mane again. "But I better see a difference the next time I go to Canterlot High."

Canterlot High. "About that," Sunset lifted her head again. "When do you think you're coming back for a visit?"

Twilight rubbed her chin. "Hmm. I'm not sure. I do have some free time coming up soon, so maybe then."

"Do you think you'll be free in say, a moon and a half?"

"Maybe. Why? Is something happening?"

Sunset smiled. You could say that. "Yes. Something big, in fact."

Twilight raised her eyebrow. "Oh?"

Sunset shifted herself to a sitting position. "You remember the Fall Formal, right?"

"Ha. How could I not? It was a very eventful night."

"Haha. Right. Anyway, there's another event coming up at Canterlot High that's a lot like the Fall Formal but bigger. Much bigger. In fact, it's probably the biggest event school has."

"Really?" Twilight's interest was peaked. "What is it?"

"It's called the 'Prom.' It's another school dance but much more formal. You see, it's the last dance the school has each year, and it's meant to be a celebration for the graduating students before the actual graduation ceremony, and...this year happens to be my year."

"Wait," Twilight's eyelids were wide open. "Are you saying you're graduating soon?"

Sunset nodded. "Mm-hmm."

"Does that mean you're-?"

Sunset playfully rolled her eyes. "Yes, Twilight."

Twilight pounced on top of Sunset. "Finally! I can't believe it! I've been waiting for so long, it almost felt like-"

"Twilight," Sunset spoke out. "I'm glad you're happy, but that's not the point I was getting at."

"Oh. Riiiight. Pardon me," Twilight climbed off Sunset. "Continue."

Sunset chuckled as she sat back up. "Anyway, the Prom is going to have everything the Fall Formal had; pictures, music, dancing, and all that good stuff. The others and I are all going, and, per Prom custom, we're each bringing a...date."

"Oooh," Now I see. Twilight leaned in, looking a little giddy. "Soooo?"

Sunset rubbed the back of her head and blushed. "So, I know you're busy being a princess in Equestria, teaching students, and fixing friendship problems everywhere, but I was hoping that...you'd have some spare time to be my date for the prom?"

Twilight gave Sunset a smile. "I'd be honored."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Twilight, Sunset, Starlight, and Spike all stood in the center of the library, staring at a certain magical mirror.

"Are you sure you have to go now?" Twilight asked. "You're welcome to stay a little longer."

"Thank Twilight, but I have a big test on Monday, and I've got to study."

"I understand," Twilight sighed. "You go and knock that test out, all right?"

"Ha. I will, even harder than all the others," Sunset gave Twilight a hug. "Don't look so down. I'll be back, I promise."

"I know," Twilight hugged back. "You just take care of yourself for me, okay?"

"I will. You too, okay?"

"Of course," Twilight and Sunset held each other's warm embrace, enjoying their last few moments together.

Sunset broke away from the hug and trotted over to Spike. "It was good seeing you again, Spike."

"You too, Sunset. Hope you enjoyed your visit."

"Ha. I did. Sorry if I didn't get to spend a lot of time with you."

"Ahh, no worries. There'll be plenty of time for that later," Spike walked up and gave Sunset a hug. "Thank you for coming, Sunset. It meant a lot to us. All of us."

"Thanks, Spike," Sunset wrapped a hoof around the little dragon.

Sunset let go of Spike and trotted to the library's final occupant. "It was nice to finally meet you, Starlight."

"You too, Sunset," Starlight smiled.

"Study hard, okay? You've got some serious talent."

"I will. Just remember you owe me a magic duel, okay?"

"Ha. I will, but I warn you," Sunset lifted her hoof. "When it happens, you're going to wish I didn't remember."

"Haha," Starlight smirked. "We'll see," Starlight reached out and shook Sunset's hoof.

"Please, take care of Twilight for me."

Starlight nodded and let go of Sunset's hoof.

With that, Sunset trotted back to Twilight. Sunset didn't say anything, nor did Twilight. They just stood there, staring at each other for a few moments until, without warning, Sunset stepped up and planted her lips on Twilight's. Twilight wasn't surprised by this. Instead, she pulled Sunset in closer and began returning the kiss.

"Whoa," Spike stared wide-eyed until Starlight covered them with her foreleg.

Sunset separated her lips from Twilight's and looked deeply into her eyes. "Goodbye."

Twilight's eyes sparkled. "Bye."

Sunset turned around and slowly began to trot toward the portal. Step after step, Sunset gradually approached the mirror until finally, it stood right there in front of her. She tapped one hoof on the surface of the portal to see it ripple. Sunset turned around and gave her friends one final smile that they immediately returned. After that, Sunset turned around, took a deep breath, faced the portal, and went through. And just like that, Sunset Shimmer was gone.

Silence filled the library. Spike and Starlight turned their attention to Twilight.

"Twilight," Spike slowly approached. "Are you okay?"

"I'll be fine, Spike," Twilight closed her eyes. "I'm just going to need some time."

"Are you sure?" Starlight asked.

"I am. Please, I'd like to be alone right now."

Spike and Starlight gave looked at each other and nodded. "Okay," Spike said. Spike and Starlight began to leave the library.

"We're here if you need us, Twilight," Starlight said.

"I know," Twilight didn't turn to face them. "Thank you."

"Goodnight, Twilight," Spike and Starlight reached the library's exit.

"Goodnight, you two," Spike and Starlight left.

Now alone, Twilight began thinking about the day she just had. She remembered how Sunset finally came out of the portal, how happy Sunset was about eating Equestrian delicacies for breakfast, Sunset meeting her friends, the surprise party, the bugbear attack, the tour of the castle...It had been a perfect day, and it just ended. 

There were no more conversations to be had, no more surprises to show, and no more stories to tell. It was over. All those moons of planning and preparing for her arrival just to see her leave again. Why?

Twilight thought about what to do next. She weighed her options. Maybe...Maybe I could go visit her now. Yes, then we can spend more time together without her worrying to go back. Twilight trotted toward the portal and poked it. It rippled under her hoof's touch. Twilight took a deep breath and took one step in.

No! Twilight hopped back out of the portal. Let her come back on her own terms, Twilight. You can't force someone to stay.

With her mind decided, Twilight stepped away and levitated her journal off the portal. She tapped the glass one more time. Her hoof did not phase through the glass nor cause any ripples through the mirror's surface. Closed.

Twilight sighed. It's the right thing to do, Twilight. With that, Twilight began to trot out of the library, carrying her journal with her magic. Just as she reach the exit, her journal began to vibrate.

Huh? Twilight opened her journal to see a new message.

Dear Twilight,

I miss you already. I wish I could've stayed longer, but I have my responsibilities here. I'm really glad I went to see you. Today was the best day I've had in a long time. I can't wait to go back and see you again. I'm really looking forward to Prom now. With you by my side, I know I'm going to have a great time.


Can't wait to see you again!


XOXO


Yours now and forever,


Sunset Shimmer 


A teardrop descended from Twilight's face as she finished reading the message. She quickly galloped to the library's deck and found a pen. With a smile on her face, Twilight began to write in her journal. Dear Sunset...

~End~