> What I Got
>  by Gpizano
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Early In The Morning
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It had been a couple of weeks since the Friendship Games in Canterlot City, a couple of weeks since the Pony Breakers had to miss a huge gig in Manehattan to investigate and stop magical mishap. A couple of weeks since Sunset Shimmer had a hole blown in her chest and she died for a little bit. Obviously she got better.

After saying their goodbyes to her... could she still call them ex-friends? The friendship was tentative at the moment, on a shaky foundation which may or may not be fixed in a couple of days when the weekend began and her friends came to Los Pegasus for their spring break. While she had grown to trust people again thanks to Jackie and the others, it wasn't easy to shake how deeply her old friends from Canterlot had hurt her. Before the Friendship Games she wasn't ready to give them another chance but well... after getting a taste of the hell they went through and well, dying, she just didn't feel the want to keep the grudge going. 

Rolling over in the bed she shared with Jackie, Sunset's brow furrowed when she heard a retching sound coming from the bathroom. She was already disturbed from her slumber when the guitarist had gotten out of bed, obviously to go to the bathroom to throw up. Just as she had the last few morning, because she'd been buying up beer and drinking on the heavy side before going to bed. Cracking open a teal blue eye, the digital alarm clock on the old night stand showed that it was five in the morning. Far too early to be up, she didn't have to go to school for another hour or so.

With a soft sigh, Sunset Shimmer sat up and stretched, dressed in her usual pajamas of a black camisole and dark red cotton shorts. When she was sufficiently limber, the red head rolled off the bed and left the room, noting that the retching had turned into pitiful groaning as she headed for the kitchen. While she made coffee, toast, and prepared a glass of water for Jackie, Bobby groggily sat up on the couch, rubbing his eyes as he gazed over to the kitchen.

"Mornin' Sunset."

"Morning Bobby."

"She sick again?"

"Mm-hm..."

The man groaned softly before standing, dressed only in a pair of boxer shorts as he headed for the kitchen. At this rate Sunset was used to the man's bare minimum dress to the point she didn't even bat an eye when she saw him. She handed him a cup of coffee, which the college student gratefully gulped down... then had to grab a glass of cold water to chug since he burned his tongue. Sunset simply smiled and shook her head at his antics, having grown to find his slightly dimmer moments more endearing since over all Bobby was a good guy who tried to do his best. It was still a scary thought to think that when he got his business degree he'd be handling other people's money though...

"How're you holding up, Sunset?"

Although that did earn a sigh from her, having heard that question far too many times since they had stopped Chrysalis. 

"I'm fine."

"... Really?"

Another sigh as she ran a hand through her hair, setting aside her cup of life giving coffee before looking Bobby straight in the eye.

"I died, Bobby. I'm dealing with it as best as I can but I'm not just going to randomly break down crying or suddenly snap."

"Well, yeah, I guess I can see that but... compared to Jackie you're taking it really well. I mean... you died."

"I know, Bobby."

"I mean... yeah, I dunno how I'd feel if that happened. So seeing you be so calm about it is like... I dunno."

Taking in a deep breath, Sunset Shimmer crossed her arms and leaned against the counter, thinking it over for a moment before responding.

"I won't say it didn't disturb me, Bobby. But maybe I'm just... numb? I don't really remember what it was like outside of darkness before I heard Jackie and the light revived me. I don't want to dwell on the fact that I died, Bobby. I just want to live."

Although Bobby didn't seem totally convinced, the man nodded all of the same before drinking more coffee. It was at that point that Sunset heard the toilet in the bathroom flush, signaling the blue haired woman would emerge soon. Sunset appeared to be mulling something over for a moment or two.

"... Bobby, I need you to step out for awhile."

"Huh? Why?"

"Please?"

Although confused, Bobby gave a nod before gulping down the last of his coffee and grabbing a piece of toast before moving to get dressed. He was almost out the door when Jackie came out of the bathroom, looking questioningly at Bobby who simply shrugged in turn before closing the door behind him. Then the guitarist looked over to Sunset Shimmer, who had approached with a glass of water and some plain toast in hand.

"You'll need this. And don't go for the fridge for another beer, we need to talk Jackie."

Although she wanted to protest, the hang over headache creating a samba in her head made Jackie compliant. She sipped down the water and took small bites of the toast as Sunset Shimmer headed to the bathroom, returning with aspirin in hand for Jackie to take as well.

"And when you're done, brush your teeth and use mouth wash. We'll talk in the bedroom."

Not questioning why the bedroom other than it would be a great place to lie down, Jackie obeyed Sunset Shimmer's instructions. She made sure to gargle twist and brush her tongue real good to get out the taste of vomit in her mouth. Once she was sure the foul odor had been eliminated and her mouth was minty fresh, Jackie trudged into the bedroom and lied down on the bed. Sunset Shimmer was already on the bed, sitting cross legged with her hands folded in front of her face, watching Jackie and seeming to contemplate something.

"... you're having nightmares Jackie."

The guitarist glanced over to the red head, knowing there was no point in denying the truth to the... high schooler seemed childish. She was certain Sunset was eighteen by now, right? Or at least was almost there. 

"... yeah."

"Tell me about them, Jackie."

Frowning, the guitarist turned over so that her back was to Sunset Shimmer, obviously trying to block her out and not answer but Sunset proved to be a very patient young woman.

"... it's about you... and about what makes it so I can't stand seeing a girl cry."

Silence before Sunset Shimmer prompted Jackie to continue.

"It was the last party I went to before I stopped all that. Tino was still nagging at me to reel it in and Poppy had decided things were getting too wild for her. It was some party out in the desert, bonfires and such, there was all sorts of stuff being taken as people fucked and did whatever. I know I got slipped something really far out, beyond what I could handle before everything got surreal... then I woke up and everything was dark. There was this girl not too far away, she looked like a girl I knew from school. She was crying, I mean... crying both tears and crying for help, but I was so drugged up I couldn't move. Then these dark figures took her, she disappeared screaming into darkness before I started seeing all this fucked up shit. That happens in my nightmares except she changes into you and you've got that hole in your chest, asking why I didn't do anything to save you..."

"Jackie..."

"I know alright! If that girl was real, Tino and Sandy told me I couldn't of done anything and I know I couldn't of done anything but... UGH! I still feel as though I should have! I shouldn't of taken random drugs from a shady guy at the party, if I could've fought better I could of gotten you out of the way in time! And I know beating myself up about this is just frying me but I want to be better!"

"Jackie."

"I mean... yeah it's only been a short time but I care a whole hell of a lot about you, Sunshine. You're smart, you're nice, you're a whole bunch of things and you almost died! You DID die! You got a fucking hole blown in your chest and there was so much blood!"

Instead of saying her name, Sunset Shimmer instead moved in to sweep the guitarist up in her arms, holding the other close as Jackie began to cry. As she gently rubbed the other's back and gave her a shoulder to cry on, a thought was brought back to the front of her mind again. A thought that had appeared not too long ago and recently had been resurfacing. It was a crap shoot knowing whether it was best to act on this thought but... after everything she had been through, Sunset Shimmer found herself wanting to act on said thought all the more.

When Jackie had calmed down and pulled back, Sunset Shimmer smiled softly to the other and brushed away Jackie's tears.

"You're so nice..."

"Huh?"

"I mean it... you're agonizing over this more than I am. I know it's hard to get over something traumatic, especially when it's so fresh. But Jackie..."

Confusion turned into shock, silver eyes becoming very wide as their lips pressed together. Between that and being hung over, Jackie was a deer in the headlights, not knowing what to do as she stared at Sunset, the other having pulled back to smile at her.

"I'm alive. I'm here."

Another kiss.

"I'm here."

Then another, this time Jackie hesitantly pressing back at Sunset's insistence, her eyes closing and glad that the other had made her wash out her mouth. Otherwise it wouldn't of been so pleasant for Sunset Shimmer as the kiss deepened, the red head taking control as she pushed her tongue into the guitarist's mouth, keeping their mouths together as she eased Jackie onto her back on the bed. When the kiss finally ended, both were breathless, Jackie staring up at the other and feeling her heart start to race as she watched Sunset Shimmer peel off her camisole, leaving her upper half bare. 

It was... erotic. She'd never seen the sensual side of Sunset Shimmer before but now, seeing her curvy, womanly form on display as the red head straddled her waist, it was definitely getting hot in here!

As Sunset Shimmer leaned over, locks of red and yellow fell about Jackie, entranced by those beautiful teal eyes as she felt a hand start to slip under her old shirt.

"I'm here...."





About an hour or so later Bobby came back, having walked around the block and picked up more quick bites for breakfast before deciding Sunset Shimmer had enough time talking to Jackie. However as he moved to get his keys, the door opened and Sunset Shimmer stepped out, completely calm but with a slightly more brighter smile on her face.

"Hey Sunset, how'd it go?"

"Good. I need to get going or I'll be late."

"Sure thing, have a good day!"

Watching her go off, Bobby could only guess that her talk with Jackie went well and was in higher spirits when he went into the apartment. Only to see Jackie leaning against the counter, a serious case of bed head as she stared into space, a cup of coffee in hand.

"Uh, Jackie?"

"Huh?"

"Um, everything okay? With Sunset?"

"Uhhh... yeahhh. Yeah. Totally fine."

"And you guys talked?"

"... mm-hm."

"Are you... sure everything is okay?"

"Oh yeah! Fine, fine... we talked, I'm less hung over, we had sex..."

The last part was mumbled out as she took a sip of coffee but Bobby obviously heard her.

"WHAT?"

"What?"

"Jackie... you and Sunset had sex?"

"Um... yeah?"

"Oh."

Cue awkward silence.

"So um... are you two... together now?"

An open mouth stayed open as an answer failed to come to Jackie, her expression morphing from one to the next as she thought over the situation.

"I... have no fucking clue Bobby."




	
> Got To Find A Reason
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	For the next two days, things had been odd in the apartment, mainly between Jackie and Sunset, with the former trying to figure out where they hell they stood and the latter not giving any answers. Well, not that it was Sunset's fault, Jackie was totally baffled and had no idea how to bring up the subject. 'Hey Sunshine, we fucked, what the hell does that mean for us?', it was weird how she could be so brash with others but when it came to her and Sunset it just seemed... difficult. Granted Jackie was probably making this more complicated than what it probably should have been. If she asked for the clarification on where they were at, would Sunshine's feelings be hurt that Jackie didn't think they were together? Would she get weirded out that Jackie thought they were in a relationship when it was just supposed to be casual? What if Jackie made things more awkward? What if Sunset got angry and moved out? What if she never wanted to see or speak to Jackie ever again?! ARGH!!!!

On the upside at least, as she held off on bringing this up, it gave her time to try and think over her own feelings on the matter... and so far it was still a confusing mess. It would of been so much easier and quicker if she could talk to Sandy since the woman was more nuanced in matters of romance and such but it seemed like a bad idea to tell any of their friends anything. Well, she had told Bobby but he was their roommate, he would have picked up on things sooner and she trusted him to keep this matter under wraps. Maybe... dammit, he better not have told anyone!

That Saturday morning, Jackie had woken up to find Sunset was out of bed already. Normally the red head woke up before her anyway but the last couple of days she had gone to bed after Jackie was asleep and woken up before Jackie did. That certainly didn't help make matters less confusing. She'd found a note taped to the fridge saying that she and Bobby had gone out grocery shopping, which left her alone in the apartment to eat some Captain Crash cereal and watch some cartoons. The new episode of Stephanie Galaxy was premiering and after that she could catch the newest episode of My Biggy Primate! 

Yet while Princess Bush Baby (heh-heh, bush... honestly, was it any wonder there was so much rule sixty-three of her on the internet? And no, Jackie did not go actively looking for it, stupid anti-Bromates/Primasisters always liked to throw that shit up in her face because they were assholes) was busy solving yet ANOTHER problem where a big bad villain was threatening peace in the land of Mammalia, there came a knock at the door. Puzzled as to who this could be since she was sure it wouldn't be until much later in the day that Sunset's friends would arrive from Canterlot (assuming when they left Friday afternoon they didn't stop and drove all night), a curious Jackie went to the door to see just who was interrupting her morning of sugary delights and silly animaton. 

After she made sure the trusty old bat was on hand by the door as usual, Jackie peeked through the keyhole and was surprised to see someone familiar. Once she undid the security latch, she opened the door to get a better look at an indigo haired girl dressed in a blue blouse, purple shirt and purple knee high boots with a small, purple and green dog in her arms.

"Twilight Sparkle?"

"Yes! And you must be Jackie!"

"Nice to meet you! You know I'm Spike, right?"

Not even batting an eye when the dog talked (wow, she was really getting jaded when a talking dog didn't even phase her), Jackie scratched the side of her head.

"Oh yeah, are you the one from the pony world? Cause you don't have the glasses or the bun or your school uniform. But uh... if you are, how did you get here from Canterlot?"

"Oh right! I wanted to surprise Sunset, is she in?"

"Uh, no, she stepped out with Bobby... want to come in and wait?"

After letting Twilight and Spike in, she moved over and cleared off the text books and papers off of the chair in the living room so that she could have a seat, letting the young woman and dog have the more spacious couch. When prompted about how she was here when the others from Canterlot weren't, the princess of friendship started going going off on a spiel about time and space, something about magic and some bearded guy's theories... it sounded like the lectures in high school and just like then, Jackie could feel her eyes start to roll into the back of her head as it felt like her brain was being overloaded to the point the information was smothering her brain and cutting off the oxygen supply. Finally the human raised a hand to put a stop to it.

"Okay, now pretend I'm a human who doesn't study magic and only has a high school level of education. Can you bottom-line that for me?"

"Oh, right, sorry!"

Admittedly it was a little cute how the... what did Sunshine call her? Alicorn? Blushed and looked sheepish, clearing her throat before dumbing it down for Jackie.

"Basically, it's magic! Celestia allowed me access to Starswirl the Bearded's archives. In my world, he was a powerful unicorn that created the mirror to this world and I found his papers and schematics! So between studying them and studying the mirror that links to the statue at Canterlot High School, I managed to make another portal that links to here in Los Pegasus!"

"Really? Cool, but why didn't you tell Sunset about this? I mean, then she could've told me and I could've picked you up so you wouldn't of been wandering the streets and got jumped or something."

"Well, I wanted it to be a surprise. Although maybe she might suspect something since I did ask for her address the day before. I would have been here sooner but I'm not too familiar with Los Pegasus, in this world or in mine." 

"Alright, well, you can bet Sunshine's probably going to be happy that you can visit more I guess..."

"Sunshine... that reminds me."

Suddenly the young woman became more serious, her back straightening with a slightly more analytical look in her eyes.

"I know Sunset has talked about you when we talk, but I haven't had the chance to speak with you at all. I really want to thank you for everything you've done for Sunset, this is the happiest I've ever known her to be."

"Ah well, you know... I like it when she's happy."

"I mean it, you're really good for her and I want you two to stay together for a long time."

That came off a bit weird to Jackie, who stopped rubbing the back of her head and gave the princess a weird look.

"I'm sorry, I know I shouldn't meddle! But the way she talked about you, I just can't help but think you two are really good together. I mean, she talks about you a lot and how much the relationship you two have means to her."

"Really? Good, cause I wasn't sure where we were after Thursday when we fucked but-"

"WHAT???"

Judging by how utterly shocked Twilight looked, it was reasonable to assume Sunset had not mentioned that to the alicorn... like, AT ALL. And to make matters more fabulous, Jackie could hear the door knob turning, signaling Bobby and Sunset Shimmer had returned. In her panic, the blue haired guitarist's head jerked over her shoulder to see Sunset Shimmer looking quite surprised to see Twilight and Spike on the couch.

"Twilight?"

"You had sex with Jackie?!!"

"JACKIE!!!"

"Um, you know the neighbors can probably hear all this?"

"SPIKE!"

"Holy crap, that dog can talk?!"

"BOBBY!"

When the confused shouting was done, Jackie just wished she could sink low enough to disappear into her chair as Sunset Shimmer glared poisonous, flaming daggers in her direction.

"Um... hey! Twilight opened a portal to Los Pegasus so she can see you now! Yay!"

Despite slumping down to hide behind the chair, Jackie could still feel that stare.

"Twilight, Spike... please come with me to the bedroom so that we can speak more privately." 

Hearing the groceries the red head was carrying being dropped down onto the kitchen counter, Jackie continued to hide as Twilight and Spike got up and left the living room with Sunset. Bobby would sit down on the couch after setting down his groceries, looking at Jackie with a mix of incredulity and pity. 

"I'm guessing you're locked out of your bedroom again?"

"Shut up, Bobby..."





"... so."  began Twilight Sparkle, sitting on one side of the bed with Spike in her lap, still feeling quite awkward and a little aghast at Jackie's crassness. But mostly awkward now that she was over the initial shock. Sunset was lying next to her, eyes closed and rubbing her temples. If Twilight had to guess, the other pony now human possibly had a headache after all of that.

"Yes, I had sex with Jackie. No, we're not together. We're not together because I'm not sure if I do want to start a relationship with Jackie, not when I'm looking to go off to college and it possibly won't be here in Los Pegasus, not when I'm actually a unicorn that's taken on a human form. Not when I have thoughts about just returning home to Equestria and, if I patch things up with Celestia, I have the option and might consider staying permanently. Not that I'm sure if it'll work out because I've only known Jackie for less than half a year. And I'm sure there are at least a dozen other reasons as to why I'm hesitant about pursuing a relationship for the first time since Flash Sentry, oh yeah, add that to the list since my last relationship with a blue haired guitarist ended so well because I didn't actually love him in the first place, but I can't think of them at the moment. Does that answer all your questions, Twilight?"

As snappy as it was, Twilight didn't seem to take offense since it appeared that Sunset had given this a lot of thought. Although as the princess of friendship sat in silence, a look of curiosity came to her face as something came to mind.

"How does sex between human women work? I mean, I imagine there may be similar anatomy between a pony and a human in respect to genitalia but over all anatomy would mean the mechanics would be different in many aspects-"

"Twilight!"

Now red faced, Sunset Shimmer sat up like a shot with a mortified look on her face while Twilight blushed in embarrassment and waved her hands. For Spike's part, the whole conversation was highly embarrassing and uncomfortable for a baby dragon turned dog, so he jumped off the bed and hid under it to escape.

"Sorry! Sorry! Not appropriate right now! Sorry! But um... you seem to have given this a lot of thought. It sounds more serious than you just wanting a casual um... "hook up". It sounds like this matters a whole lot to you and I know you care a lot about Jackie from what way I've seen you write about her."

It was hard not to snicker seeing Twilight raise her hands, her fingers curled as the princess made 'hoof quotation marks' when she said hook up. But of course Twilight was as astute as ever and there was no getting around it, Sunset Shimmer took a moment to collect her thoughts.

"A few weeks leading up to the Friendship Games incident, thinking about being with Jackie just seemed... nice. Which is ironic because that's what I think of her over all, she's so nice. I mean, she went above and beyond the call of duty when I was a complete stranger to her, and she can be so understanding and supportive when we talk. Yeah, she can be a spaz and a bit of a dork, but it's cute. And I admire how she can be so dedicated to her dream of making her band famous and just how passionate she is about playing guitar, and how loyal and caring she can be."

With a sigh, she leaned back against the wall the head of the bed was against, the small smile on her face slipping into a light frown.

"When I saw her so torn up and having nightmare about me dying, I wanted to make her feel better. But I guess some small, selfish part of me egged me on to kiss her. Then when she didn't push me away it just escalated. I felt a lot better after it happened too, I guess you could call it good stress relief and I finally got to be with Jackie. But... ugh, I dunno, I guess I've just been waiting for her to say something or make a move, but she hasn't. And now all those fears and lists of reasons not to reared their head again, chastising me because, sure, I died, but a 'living in the moment' mentality can have consequences." 

"And maybe... having a list of reasons why it wouldn't work helps if she rejects you?" 

".... yeah."

Reaching over, Twilight took Sunset Shimmer's hands into her own and smiled to the other.

"I know I'm not well learned in matters of love like Cadance, but I don't think it hurts to try. And if it's meant to be, then I don't think distance would be a problem. Although if you went back to Equestria that might be tricky. And you should know that while she's confused, she didn't seem repulsed when she mistook my words as her thinking you wanted a relationship. So I think you have a pretty good shot."

"Thanks... but I still want her to ask me. And you can't say anything either."

"What?! Why?"

"Duh, because she's too nice."

Staring blankly after Sunset's deadpan response, the red head sighed before explaining.

"If I asked her, I can't help but feel she'd just go along with it so I wouldn't be upset. And if you say something about everything I've said, I think she'll be pressured into saying yes even if she doesn't feel the same way. I want a true answer from her, Twilight."

"I guess I could see that, but you really think she's that nice?"

"Twilight, she confronted Gilda, drove me all the way here to Los Pegasus, has lent me her clothes, given me food, let me stay here rent free until I finally got an after school job, and has dealt with all of my drama and baggage."

"... good point."

"Right. Anyway, since I'm assuming you don't have a place to stay, you and Spike can have Jackie's spot on the bed while you're here."

"Um, are you sure that's okay?"

"Considering that Jackie's in the dog house after spilling that we had sex to you, yeah, it's perfectly fine.





> Reason Things Went Wrong
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


To be without a bed was not a new situation for Jackie, in fact it happened plenty of times long before Sunset Shimmer moved in and started locking her out of the bedroom every now and then. Whether it came to unexpectedly crashing at a friend's house or just needing to find a soft spot of floor to pass out on while drunk or high, Jackie had become a connoisseur of things that could be slept on and even a tactician, scouting out the pros and cons of each possible spot.

For example, a rookie move would be to simply take a pillow and blanket into the bathroom and sleep in the tub, but there in lied the minefield. What if someone needed to pee in the middle of the night? What if she woke up and startled someone like say, Princess Twilight? What if, after having spilled that they had slept together, Sunshine gave into an urge of pettiness and turned on the shower while Jackie slept? Or Tino and Poppy came over and did that. 

No, they wouldn't do that... they'd try to make her pee with that hand in a warm bowl of water thing to see if it actually worked. Or make it looked like she peed her pants. 

The point being that when one was not drunk or high or extremely sleep deprived, many more factors had to be taken into account, like the fact that without your nerves temporarily numbed from any of the previous three status effects, even a floor with carpeting was too uncomfortable to fall asleep on. And since Bobby had so nobly offered her the couch in a way that made her feel bad and tell him to sleep on the couch, that just left her with the chair. Sure it was a recliner but since it was second hand like just about everything else in the apartment, it didn't quite recline all the way. Which left Jackie tossing and turning for most of the night until she was finally too tired to pass out.

She awoke stiff as a board that morning, groaning like a zombie and tilting her back and neck this way and that to crack the bones, wanting to try and work out all of the kinks before getting her cup of coffee from Bobby. After that and scarfing down some toast, Sunset Shimmer, Twilight and Spike would emerge from the bedroom. While Twilight and Spike gave a cheerful good morning, Sunset seemed a bit more neutral. Not cold per say but just... seemed to be holding back? That was the best way Jackie could describe it. Conversations between her and Sunset were on the brief side and if she even tried to bring up the status of their current relationship, the red head was quick to segue to another topic. Over all it left Jackie feeling frustrated but since she had no idea how she felt or how Sunset felt, she was hesitant to try and force the issue.


That late morning they would all get their things together and head for the beach to meet up with Sunset's friends from Canterlot. They had arrived late last night and had stayed at the hotel to recuperate from the long drive but officially today would be the start of spring break beach fun. They picked a beach not too far a drive that still had fire pits, usually it would of been a hassle to get them but Sunset had received a text from Rainbow Dash saying she had gotten their early and snagged a good one close to the water. 

As Jackie drove down the street by the beach, it was already fairly crowded with all of the high school and college kids that wanted to partake in beach fun as well. Even down the way there were stages, volleyball courts and booths being set up for various events. Of course, Jackie was most looking forward to one event in particular!

"You looking forward to the Beach Band Battles, Sunshine?"

"Beach Band Battles?"

The query had come from Twilight Sparkle, looking intrigued as Jackie grinned to her by way of the rear view mirror.

"Yup! We signed up like, weeks ago when we found out. Cash prizes to the first top three AND it's going to be broadcast on TV! Not a super swanky affair but it's good publicity and a little cash in your pocket. The Pony Breakers are gonna sweep the competition of course!"  

At Jackie's boasting, Sunset could not help but smile slightly and roll her eyes before pointing out an open parking space that they would have to snatch up quick unless they wanted to keep trolling for a spot.

Once they were out of the car and retrieved their supplies from the back, it was easy enough to spot where the others were, Pinkie Pie seeming to have immediately spotted them and jumping up and down. As Sunset and Twilight hurried ahead to greet the group and do a quick catch up, Jackie took her time walking over and take them in. She hadn't really spoken to them much after the Friendship Games, but it was interesting to get a read off of them based on their swim wear. 

Blond girl, Applejack, orange one piece... with three apples over the left hip? Really? A bit plain but the muscular farm girl pulled it off well. Fluttershy, fairly conservative, it looked like a pink one piece with those naturey green whatchamacallits around her waist. Worn on those island paradise scenes... sarong? But she pulled it off well, sort of an exotic look.

Pinkie Pie's stood out the most based on color alone with it's neon blues and whites and... wast that an inner tube around her waist with a unicorn head on it? Rarity certainly liked to show it off in a black bikini, very stylish, although sort of over the top with the big sun hat and knock off sunglasses all those starlets liked to wear. 

Rainbow Dash was also in a one piece, dark blue, which was a little surprising since Jackie had banked on the athlete wearing guy swim trunks, a two piece top, and possibly an open Hawaiian shirt like Jackie always opted for. Then there was this world's Twilight Sparkle and for the sake of avoiding confused, she was calling human Twilight, Sparky and Princess Twilight, Twilight. It was hard to tell what Sparky was wearing since she was wearing swim shorts and a t-shirt over whatever she had on, which was pretty different compared to Twilight's magenta two piece that she had borrowed from Sunset.

Sunset... 

Trying to be as discreet as possible, Jackie's eyes slid over to Sunset, the red head currently talking to Sparky and Pinkie Pie. She would be a damn liar if she didn't think that Sunshine looked particularly fine right now. Bold as could be in that fire red and orange bikini, not a gangly teen but filling out those curves. Those curves she had seen. In the bedroom, as Sunset was slowly taking her bra off to reveal-

"Uh, Jackie? You okay? You're not heat stroking already?"

Snapped out of naughty fantasies by Bobby, the blush on her face intensified as she shook her head, as if determined to shake it off her face while also answering the college student at the same time. In a slightly higher pitched voice.

"NOPE! Fine! Everything's fine! Great!"

Hustling over to the fire pit in an effort to work off the hormones, Jackie set the blankets, beat up old lawn chairs, and her acoustic guitar case down while Bobby continued to carry the big cooler the rest of the way. 

It wouldn't be long after that Poppy, Tino and Sandy arrived, all dressed in swim wear as well and being greeted by the others. Tino and Applejack would man the stations by the fire pit, cooking up the food they had brought while comparing and contrasting cooking techniques and even experiences. Tino impressed that Applejack was basically in charge a lot of the time when it came to her apple farm and Applejack impressed with the story of how Tino's grandfather had come to Los Pegasus and set up his taco shack. 

Sandy, who had gone to work as a busker since her career as an actress was on hold after going into Pony Mode on stage, was working up a comedy routine with Pinkie Pie, entertaining the group as they went through a rendition of 'who's on first?'. 

Most of the group's attention was on them until Rainbow Dash heard Jackie and Poppy going over their strategy for the Beach Band Battles contest. Intrigued and curious, the prismatic haired young woman scooted closer to the two to join in on the conversation.

"You guys playing here on the beach?" 

"You bet, the Pony Breakers are gonna get up on stage and blow everyone away!"

As confident as ever, Jackie was a tad confused when she saw Rainbow Dash smirk slightly.

"I guess, depending on if you got any real competition or not. Now if the Rainbooms were playing, we'd give you a run for your money."

This time it was Dash's turn to look confused when she heard Jackie snicker.

"The Rainbooms... you mean your high school band?"

Overhearing the way Jackie said that, Sunset looked over, a frown on her face and clearly wanting to shut down where this was going.

"Jackie."

"Yeah, you got a problem with that?"

Too late.

"Oh no, no. I mean, you have a high school band that what, only played in one event? That Battle of the Bands thing?"

"That we won."

"Right, even though you got knocked out. No that's... cute."

This was already working on Sunset's nerves. Why did Jackie have to be such a snob when it came to bands? The red head stood up and moved over to them, crossing her arms and frowning down at the two.

"Jackie, just drop it. Please?"

"No, if she's got something to say about m-our band, Sunset, then she should just come right out with it! We practice every day, we're just as good as you, if not better!"

At this Jackie had to roll her eyes before raising her hands in a mocking gesture. 

"Ooo, you practice. So how many gigs have you played? Are you actually even going to pursue a music career after you graduate? It's adorable how you think this little phase of yours has a chance against a real band like mine, but don't count on it chica."

By now Rainbow Dash had gotten to her feet, fists clenched as a challenge was just being dangled in front of her face while Jackie spoke to her in that condescending manner. 

"Better than you! And what, like you're such a big shot? I don't see you getting signed on to any big labels!"

"Hey, at least we're closer to getting there than you!"

By now Jackie was on her feet as well, arms crossed and glaring right back at Rainbow Dash. As annoyed as she felt and though it was probably better to just walk away, the last thing Sunset wanted was two of her friends fighting. 

"Look, both your bands are good, can we just-"

"You know I've heard some of your songs before Sunset joined up. Gotta' say she pretty much saved your band since your guy's song sucked. Especially the guitar solos."

That might as well have been a slap to the face from the look on Jackie's face, the guitarist's hands balling into fists at her sides now.

"Oh yeah? At least I don't sound like some generic as fuck kiddie pop rock, music flavor of the month bullshit!"

"Better sounding than yours!" 

"More bullshit!"

"How bullshit will it be when the Rainbooms sign up for the Beach Band Battles and kick your sorry asses?!"

"Oh! I'd love to see that! Did you even bring your music gear, jocktard?"

"You want to go bitch?!"

At that point the two had to be separated before it came to blows, Poppy, Sunset and Bobby dragging Jackie back while Pinkie Pie and Applejack did the same for Rainbow Dash. When she was sure Jackie wouldn't try to make a go for Rainbow Dash, Sunset Shimmer stood in front of Jackie, glaring at her.

"What is your fucking problem?!"

"Well excuse me if I don't take to some wannabe talking smack like that!"

"But you didn't have to instigate it! You don't have to act like some damn snob just because there are people who aren't making music a career like you do!"

"Hey, I just call it like I see it!"

"Well you're being a bitch when everyone was just trying to have a good time!"

"Oh, I'm being a bitch? When the jocktard over there dissed my music?"

"Yes, you are!"

Then Jackie said something she instantly regretted, in one of those moments where, as tensions ran high, one really didn't think before saying the first thing that came to mind. It happened almost in slow motion as the words escaped, the guitarist realizing too late to shut her mouth before they were out for all to hear.

"Well ain't that something coming from the chick who used to be queen bitch in high school?!"

Dead silence.

All eyes were on the two, Jackie's eyes wide and a hand over her mouth, Sunset Shimmer staring at her blankly, mouth slightly open. Then without a word, she turned and headed down the beach, ignoring Twilight and Rarity calling after her, leaving Jackie under the glares from Rainbow Dash, Poppy, Applejack, and disapproving looks from the others. It would be Poppy who spoke up first.

"Go apologize."

"Wha-OW!"

"Now."

Rubbing the side of her head where Poppy's hand had smacked, now starting to feel worked up and agitated all over again.

"What's the point? She won't talk to me anyway!"

"Why not?"

"Because it's fucking complicated and I don't need the rest of you getting on my fucking case!"

Without another word, she headed down the beach in the opposite direction Sunset Shimmer had gone, just needing time to think away from the others. Yes, she had crossed a line with that but she was still pissed! She didn't like the way Sunset had been talking to her like that. After all, it was the first extended conversation they had in days and it was an irritating as fuck argument! 

.... okay, she knew she was pretty much wrong through that whole thing but... ugh, did she even have a case to defend herself? Outside of Sunset could of been less harsh and Poppy could have realized it was not the time for a smack to the head? Why did she even have to be the bigger person? Why couldn't Rainbow Dash have been the bigger person? AND WHAT THE HELL WAS BETWEEN HER AND SUNSET?!?!?

With a frustrated cry, Jackie looked around, spotting a nearby sand castle that looked abandoned before rushing over and kicking it before stomping it into the ground.

"Oh dear, and I was just about to make a killing with the sand crab family! It would of been quite a boon selling that beach front property!"

Wait, that voice was familiar. A quick glance over to her left and she saw two people she honestly expected to see here.

"Discord? Celestia?"





Meanwhile, down the beach a ways, Sunset Shimmer had almost completely walked off her anger, now feeling a bit drained as she thought over what had happened. Jackie shouldn't of been a snob, sure... but she could of handled that better. But why did Jackie have to bring that up? Sure Sunset had settled things with her past for the most part, but hearing that come from Jackie hurt. A lot.

"Well, don't you look distressed. Does drama simply follow you everywhere?"

Jolted from her thoughts, Sunset Shimmer glanced over to a large beach umbrella. Where, reclining underneath like the queen of Sheba was the last person Sunset had ever expected to see again in this lifetime.

"Adagio Dazzle?!"




> Take A Tip From Me
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Yes, my name is Adagio Dazzle. I'm so happy you can remember basic things like people's names."

You know, this was pretty much one of the last things Sunset needed right now. To stand there on the beach and be snarked at by one of her former enemies. It just ranked higher than trying Pinkie Pie's attempts at recreating video game sodas sans the radioactivity but below hearing one of Bobby's romantic phone calls to Principal Cinch. So with a sigh and a crossing of her arms, Sunset scowled at the siren.

"What are you doing here?"

"Enjoying a day at the beach of course. Enjoying the warm, sunny day, relaxing. Taking in the view."

As she said that last part, Adagio lowered her sunglasses, smirking as she openly eyed the bikini clad Sunset Shimmer. This made Sunset blush slightly but she wouldn't allow herself to be distracted by anything the sultry siren had to say!

"Seriously Adagio, and where are the other two?"

"Mm, very well, if we must get right to it. Quite simply my sisters and I moved here after our defeat in Canterlot. Didn't feel like going through all of that so we used up what money we had left and came to live here. As for Aria and Sonata, they ran off down the beach, Aria having the intent to throttle Sonata. Are those satisfactory answers to your questions?"

Seeing that Sunset Shimmer still appeared suspicious, the siren rolled her eyes before properly sitting up and removing her glasses.

"Honestly, none of us had any idea that you would be here, there are no designs for revenge in the works, we just want to live out the rest of our human lives the best that we can."

"... really?"

"Really. Granted at times I feel so bitter about losing our gems that I could strangle a puppy, but really there isn't a point in trying. Not when the risk to reward ratio is highly skewed."

That... did make sense now that Sunset thought about it. Without their magic what could the sirens even do? Minor things at best and anything major would lead to serious consequences in the human society. Although Sunset felt a bit more at ease, she was still on her back foot with Adagio. Mainly because the siren had a good way of blindsiding and embarrassing others with the things she said.

"Well, alright... I'll get going then."

The siren watched, waiting until the red head had turned away before speaking up.

"Need someone to talk to?"

"Why do you say that?"

"Please. Drama every other week seems to be a given when it comes to you Shimmer."

"And what, you're offering to listen? Why?"

"Oh I just find it very interesting. It's like I have my own little soap opera to watch."

"Yeahhhhh, no thanks."

"And besides, if you had anyone else, like say, your friends to talk to, I imagine you'd be talking to them right now."

Well wasn't that fairly accurate? She was hesitant to go back right now, not when things were probably still tense after her argument with Jackie. Plus it didn't seem like a good idea to tell either sets of friends the whole relationship mess between her and the guitarist right now. Poppy and the others would probably let on to Jackie and she just didn't feel comfortable telling Pinkie Pie and the others. 

"Right, and if I talk to you all of the beach is going to know what's up with my life by sundown."

"Late afternoon if I work fast."

The smirk on Adagio's face dropped as Sunset rolled her eyes and started to walk away.

"You know I still have a lot of respect for you. Before you turned into a goody two shoes and started taking it from that school, you were a girl that never let anything stop you from getting what you wanted."

"Yeah, and I hurt a lot of people along the way."

"Regardless of an admirable display of cut throat tactics, I can appreciate the ambition you showed back then. I'd like to think we would have gotten along quite swimmingly had we met before you "reformed'." 

"Look, is there a point to this?"

"Yes. And it's that due to my lingering respect, I won't tell anyone else whatever you say to me."

"Bullshit."

"My, such language! But you can trust me, Shimmer. I have no intention of possibly wrecking my reputation here in Los Pegasus by causing trouble for you or your friends. Risk to reward ratio, remember?"

After mulling this over, Sunset gave a sigh of resignation before nodding. The siren smirking before patting one of the blankets next to her, probably Aria's based on the punk rock look of the design. 

"You should have plenty of time before they return. Feel free to tell me all of your troubles."





Meanwhile, down the opposite way of the beach, Jackie was currently sitting next to Celestia on Discord's blanket, the man having gotten up and was busying himself with an even more elaborate sand castle while Celestia sun bathed. Currently she was faced with a challenge so gargantuan in nature, even the mightiest men would crumble and give in to the temptation! Jackie would have broken long ago had she not kept up a mantra in her mind...

'Don't look at her boobs. Don't look at her boobs!Don'tlookatherboobs! Don't- FUCK'

Okay, but how could anyone blame her? Celestia looked FINE in that white bikini! Seriously, that formal casual wear she saw Celestia in months ago? Gave no hint at what lied beneath! This lady must have been at least her mother's age and gone to the gym everyday to get that body! Celestia wasn't all muscled but there certainly wasn't any extra weight on those curves! And her breasts-

"So what caused you to destroy Discord's sand castle?"

Jackie was visibly jolted out of her, hopefully, discreet ogling. After mentally making a note that perhaps Bobby's attraction to older women seemed to make more sense now, the guitarist cleared her throat and tried to collect her thoughts.

"Oh, you know... hate sand castles. My mom cheated on my dad with one."

With a wry smile on her face, Celestia opened her eyes and glanced over to Jackie.

"Oh?"

"Yeah... I mean, it's not like I got problems. Have you seen half of the people here in Los Pegasus on the streets? You don't even want to make eye contact with those guys! And you know, things are fine with me. Totally fine."

"Is that so."

"Yup. My life is so great and I'm just so fucking happy with it."

Her scowl turned into a look of confusion when she noticed the disapproving look on Celestia's face.

"... what?"

"I can't say I'm a fan of the swearing, Jackie."

"Really? Sorry..."

Why couldn't she do anything right today? Jackie just felt at the point of giving up and slowly flopped back down onto the towel, kicking up a bit of sand that Celestia easily brushed off herself as she sat up and stared at the other.

"Is there something bothering you, Jackie?"

"A lot of things. Why?"

"Well, perhaps I could help you?"

"Unless you're god and you can unf-... unscrew my life, then I doubt it."

"I can't say that I am. But I know that sometimes talking to someone can take away some of the stress you might feel."

"You're on vacation, I'm sure this is the last thing you want to deal with."

"It's fine, really Jackie."

A glance over and seeing that kind, almost motherly smile finally did Jackie in and she dove right in. Starting with her coming to question what her relationship was with Sunset Shimmer, and surprisingly being tactful enough to leave out that they slept together, then following it up all the way until she and Sunset had that fight. By now Jackie was up and pacing back in fort in front of Celestia and Discord, the man having lost interest in his sand castle and instead watching her with a bag of popcorn in hand that he attained from... somewhere.

"I mean, yeah, of course I know I was in the wrong and I was being a bi-jerk! But she's been putting me through this whole stupid shi-garbage of wondering if she likes me or not and if I like her and why can't she just be fu-freaking straight with me about it?! This is driving me nuts because I like her a lot and if I f-screw this up then what we got now is out the window and I don't want that to happen! Because yeah, it's been less than half a year since we met and stuff but I can't imagine her not being around now! I've gotten used to me and her sharing a bed, it's fun having her around and having to see what weird magic-y stuff might happen next! And she's nice and hot and caring and- fuck why am I such a god damn dumbass about this!?"

Slapping both hands to her face, Jackie fell back on her butt in the sand before pulling her hands up and running her fingers through her hair. Discord had been clapping after she finished and Celestia had that same kind smile on her face, although there was a hint of mirth to it now.

"So, you find her attractive and you like having her be near you?"

"Yeah. But I don't know if that's right. I mean, finding someone attractive and liking having them around doesn't mean you should start a relationship, right?"

"Perhaps. And I suppose this means that you're worried that if you're wrong about how you feel, you might lose her."

"... Yeah. I mean, I'm not the sharpest guitar pick, I'm just a high school graduate that knows how to play guitar good, I've been wrong about plenty of stuff before. What if I read the situation wrong and she doesn't feel the same way? Or what if we start something and it ends bad because of me? It'll be super awkward and she'll move out and never talk to me again..."

"I'm sure that won't happen, Jackie. I'm sure that no matter what happens, you and Sunset will still be friends at the very least. But I really think you should talk to her about this."

"She won't talk about it."

"Then keep trying. I know it seems like the ball is in your court, but even before a relationship starts it still takes two people to make it work. Both of you have to be open about your feelings and intentions, otherwise either you both will be stuck or an opportunity will slip away. Understand?"

It did make sense, it was either that or in the mother-like sort of way Celestia said it that made Jackie determined to try again. So with a nod the guitarist stood up and started running down the beach.

"Gotcha'! Thanks guys see you around!"





"Amazing."

"Yeah, I guess so... a lot has happened since December-"

"Not that. I'm amazed that you have someone so wrapped around your finger and you haven't utilized that power over her yet! It seems like such a waste."

A roll of the eyes was Sunset's response to Adagio, frowning at the siren next to her but feeling a bit better now that she told someone her troubles. Granted not the most ideal person but at least the other had listened and had reserved judgement until the end.

"Yyyeah. Anyways, this whole thing seems to be spiraling."

"Obviously."

"I want to just tell Jackie but I'm still worried she'll be too nice and just say yes when she doesn't feel the same way."

"I honestly can't see the problem with that. You still get what you want."

"But I don't want Jackie to say yes just because she wants to be nice and spare my feelings or something."

"And if you don't take what you want, I'm sure someone else will be more than happy to snap up a guitarist that will gladly bend over backwards for them. Or in any other position depending on how flexible she is."

That elicited a groan from Sunset Shimmer, lightly face palming as Adagio continued to smirk and soak up the afternoon sunlight.

"Yeah, I can't say I'm worried about that..."

"Oh? You think no one else would find her attractive?"

"No! It's just... I know she won't go for someone else while we're still in the middle of all of this."

"Ah, stringing her along... you've come a long way since that goody goody act at CHS."

"I'm not stringing her along! I'm just not worried about that happening, alright?"

Finally Adagio sat up, taking off her sunglasses and staring directly into Sunset's eyes.

"Oh Shimmer, it's disappointing to see how cowardly you are right now. You won't make a move because you're frightened about what might happen. So you sit in this comfortable little limbo, confident this Jackie woman will keep all her attention on you. Squirmng as everything is put on her to figure it out while you put off taking responsibility for your brash actions and try to keep being 'nice' because going after what you want is what the old, bad Sunset Shimmer did. The way you are acting is such a let down, I must say."

There was a lull for a moment, Adagio smirking as she watched Sunset Shimmer try to form a rebuttal but failing to do so, her mouth simply opening and closing a couple of times. Then the siren glanced past the red head for a moment, her smirk broadening as it seemed a devious idea came to mind.

"I may be a tad new to this friendship thing... but perhaps I can help by knocking you off that high horse of yours."

Confused by what the other meant, she watched Adagio stand and walk past her, a look over the shoulder showing why as Jackie was fast approaching them.

"Sunshine! Sunshine we need to t- Uh, hi?"

Stopping before the two, Jackie finally noticed Adagio Dazzle and wondered how she could not have noticed the other before. Her hair was huge!

"Jackie Vibrato, yes? I'm Adagio Dazzle."

"Adagio? Wait, one of the sirens from CHS?!"

Instead of taking the hand offered, Jackie backed up a moment until Sunset stood and spoke up.

"It's fine, Jackie. She and her sisters live here, they're not going to cause any trouble. Besides, they don't have any magic anymore, remember?"

"Oh, heh, yeah. Sorry about that." 

As they shook hands, Adagio openly eyes Jackie up and down, a sultry smile on her face as an aura of sexy confidence surrounded her. Jackie blushed slightly as the siren's fingers trailed over her hand and up her arm. 

"Mm, don't worry about it. I must say though, Shimmer's description of you did no justice. You are far cuter in person."

"C-Cute?"

Normally Jackie would have taken exception to that, a tomboy since young she didn't really think she was cute. But it was sort of hard to think when she felt electric sparks on her skin wherever Adagio's fingers touched. However, a glance over to Sunset and she could feel herself on thin ice based on how annoyed the red head looked at this moment. Despite trying to pull away, it seemed as if Adagio was stuck to her as those wandering fingertips made their way to her cheek.

"Um, yeah. Nice to meet you but um, me and Sunshine really need to talk."

"Yes. So Adagio, if you wouldn't mind, I'd like it if you stopped pawing at my roommate and-"

Everything seemed to stop as suddenly Adagio's hand cupped Jackie's cheek, turning her face so that the siren could lock lips with the blue haired woman, slipping her tongue in at the first chance presented to her. Jackie was stunned and a glance over at Sunset showed the red head was positively fuming as she glared at them. Shit, she had to pull away and stop this kiss before- holy shit, what was Adagio doing with her tongue?!

Whatever it was, it seemed to blow Jackie's mind and put her under a spell as they kept their lips locked, the kiss not done until Adagio was finished, pulling away with a mischievous glint in her eyes as she licked her lips.

"Mm, not bad... would you like to try, Shimmer?"

"Why would I?!"

The response was snapped out faster than Sunset had time to think over her words, grimacing for a moment before the fury was back in the driver's seat. It was driving her nuts having seen Adagio kiss Jackie like that... and Jackie looked like she had enjoyed it! Knowing she'd soon do something she would regret, the red head left in a huff, storming down the beach and back towards where their friends were, leaving a hurt and confused looking Jackie behind with Adagio.

"Sunshine!"

"Mm, let her cool down. How would you like to stick around for a drink?"

Considering that she would rather avoid the suck salad that was going back to face Sunset AND all of their friends who would undoubtedly be angry with her, Jackie resigned and accepted the offer, feeling less than cheerful now despite the fact that Adagio had some pretty good tequila stashed away in the cooler.




> Never Start No Static
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The rest of the afternoon and the evening went well, as they watched the setting sun over the ocean and took in the glorious view offered, the large group of friends made small talk and caught up. Sunset was happy to hear that Luna had been adjusting well in her new role as principal of CHS, having been a bit shaky at first but developing a style of firm discipline mixed with some of the kindness that Celestia had. Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo had been doing better. Granted they were still in trouble at both school and at home, but after the whole incident with Chrysalis, the school as a whole had decided that finding someone to lay the blame on was no way to go and had strove to move on. Which meant the three girls only had a few enemies instead of the whole school against them.

The human Twilight had even been doing much better at Crystal Prep Academy, taking what she had learned after her talk with Sunset and bringing friendships back to life. There were five girls in particular that she had reconnected with, Sour Sweet, Sunny Flare, Sugarcoat, Lemon Zest and Indigo Zap. It was intriguing to hear about each of the girls and how they shared some similarities with their CHS friends but also contrasted wildly in other aspects.

Of course, the topic she absolutely did not want to talk about eventually came up as the group decided to pack it in for the day, brought up, of course, by Bobby.

"Sooooo where's Jackie? She's been gone for a long time."

With a beleaguered sigh, Sunset folded up one of the lawn chairs and braced herself.

"She's down the way. Having a wonderful time with Adagio Dazzle, I'm sure."

"Adagio Dazzle?!"

Came the expected chorus from all except for her Los Pegasus friends and Sparky. Instead the human Twilight Sparkle adjusted her glasses before asking the obvious.

"Who is Adagio Dazzle?"

"Wait, that sounds familiar... from CHS?"

"Yeah Tino, she was one of the three sirens at the battle of the bands I told you about."

"She ain't n' trouble, is she?"

"No, Applejack. I talked with Adagio at length, they have no intentions of revenge and they're still without their magic. They just moved here to get away from the heat in Canterlot, it's fine."

While most seemed uneasy, Rainbow Dash was unusually silent, staring at Sunset before crossing her arms and nodding.

"Okay."

This, understandably, earned a surprised look from everyone, especially Sunset Shimmer who managed to find her voice first.

"Really? You're not suspicious or anything?"

"Oh I'm super suspicious of them! But if you say it's cool Sunset, then I trust you."

This slowly earned a nod from each of the girls of CHS and even Twilight Sparkle, a gesture that made Sunset feel a bit touched. She could only guess that after the Anon-A-Miss incident they were all trying harder and well... she could say it was appreciated. They continued packing up until Bobby brought up a good point.

"Well, if we're ditching Jackie and she's taking her own car home, how're we getting back to the apartment?"

"Hey, no problems hombre, I got the van today so I can fit you all in."

With yet another matter settled, they group headed off in different directions to their cars, Sunset, Twilight and Bobby all lugging along the equipment they brought with, including Jackie's guitar case.

"It'll be great to get home and relax. I'm sure even with the TV Spike is bored."

"By the by, I'm surprised he didn't want to come with Twilight. Beach fun, Rarity in a bikini..."

Giggling softly at Sunset's words, the princess shook her head.

"I did mention it, but he complained that it was too hot outside and to just set some food out for him.  Besides, I think he might be finally growing out of his crush on Rarity."

"Really?"

"Well, not completely but he's not as obsessed as he used to be. Which I'm glad for, I couldn't take it if he took to not washing his cheek for weeks just because she kissed it again."

With another giggle shared between them, they loaded everything into the back of Tino's van and got in. As they drove off, Sunset felt a bit of guilt niggling at the back of her mind before picking up her cell phone and dialing Jackie's number. When it went straight to voice mail, the red head scowled as her mind went to images of Adagio and Jackie making out on the beach. She chucked her cell phone back into her bag, crossing her arms and staring out the window as Twilight looked on, a light frown on her face but not saying anything...



	

Sand was great. Many people didn't appreciate sand enough. It was so soft, so warm, and yes while it could get into crevices and be very annoying, it was also good at absorbing puke! But no, no she didn't feel like puking... no, she just felt so good after drinking that whole bottle of tequila. It wasn't a big bottle but it was the good shit!

"--- hell--- this?"

"----- Vibrato----- Sunset----- toy."

Wait, who was speaking? One voice sounded familiar... and Sunset. Ugh, why did this situation have to be so screwed up? There wasn't no Sunshine when her Sunshine was angry with her. Only darkness every day... ain't no Sunshine when she's gone! She gone awa-

"Wake the fuck up!"

"Oof!"

A sharp kick to her side made the guitarist squirm away, arms flailing as the inebriated woman's eyes cracked open, seeing a pink and purple blur above her. And it was angry!

"Din't do nuthin'!"

"The hell you didn't! You drank all the tequila asshole!"

With a dry mouth and feeling a bit like a bobble head, Jackie hacked up some phlegm before sitting up and spitting it out on the sand next to her. After rubbing her eyes, she squinted at her assailant and found a young woman dressed in a tankini, hands placed angrily on her hips as purple eyes glared down at her. A slightly random thing to notice, compared to Adagio this one had her purple hair with teal streaks in a short pixie cut.

"Be nice now, Aria. I did invite her to have a drink."

"But not the whole damn thing! That shit was expensive!"

Taking the opportunity while this Aria was distracted, Jackie turned around to crawl away... and came face to face with a girl with blue tinted skin, blue hair and in a... ugh, what was that word? Sling bikini? Ugh, she was just drunk enough that she didn't want to search around for words to things. 

"Hi there! 'Bout time you woke up sleepyhead!"

Or deal with Pinkie Pie level's of cheeriness and energy.

"Uh, yeahhhh. Anyways, it's been fun but I'm gonna get going-"

"The hell you are!"

With a small yelp, Jackie felt the back of her Hawaiian shirt grabbed before she was hoisted to her feet and brought face to face with Aria. Adagio smirked as she stood as well, approaching while the blue haired young woman threw her arms around Jackie's shoulders and seemed to latch onto her back... where the blushing guitarist could feel a set of pillows pressing against her back. 

"Now, now, be nice Aria! And Sonata, don't overwhelm the poor dear. After all, she will be our guest tonight."

"I... will?"

"Mm-hmmm... I find you quite amusing at the moment, so this should be a fun night."

The naughty smirk on Adagio's face sent a shiver down her spine and things really weren't looking up as she heard a giggle from Sonata and saw the angry scowl still firmly on Aria's face. Between the three she was trapped and she was pretty sure she wouldn't be able to reach her phone in time.

".... be gentle?"

The slight whimper to the plea made Adagio's smirk grow as she placed her finger under Jackie's chin.

"I make no promises."





The next morning at the apartment was greeted with an extremely vexed Sunset Shimmer, opening the fridge to get the eggs and butter while on her cell phone, her call, once again going to Jackie's voice mail.

"Yeah, hi. This is Sunset, calling for the sixth time now to check on you, make sure you're okay and, I don't know, not passed out in a gutter or dead in a ditch somewhere? We're going to the beach again to hang out and, you know, take part in that music contest you were so pumped for? Yeah, you do remember it starts later in the afternoon right? Just... call me, okay? Or meet us there. Whatever."

Slamming the fridge door after hanging up her phone, Sunset went about making her breakfast up until a certain princess of harmony snuck up on her.

"Bad morning?"

"No, I just show my happiness by being pissed off."

A little snark reared it's head, summoned by both Jackie not picking up her phone and being a bit startled from Twilight suddenly speaking up, but Sunset took a deep breath to calm herself down.

"Sorry."

"It's fine, I know you didn't mean it."

A lull in conversation came into the kitchen, Twilight moving over to lean against the counter so that she could look expectantly at Sunset, the red head doing her best to ignore the look and failing.

"... what?"

"Being angry at Jackie isn't healthy. I don't know what happened after she said what she did on the beach, but is it really worth being upset over it?"

The rational side of Sunset's mind of course said no. But then there was that irrational side that kept drawing up pictures of Jackie and Adagio doing more than just making out as the guitarist purposefully ignored picking up her phone when Sunset called. Gritting her teeth, Sunset quickly turned her sunny side up eggs into scrambled one as she took out her frustrations on what was in the pan.

"Yeah, I'm done talking about this Twilight. Can we please drop it?"

Her mouth stopped at being halfway open after Sunset shot her a look, Twilight snapping it shut and giving an awkward smile before quickly exiting the kitchen. Why did Twilight have a feeling today was going to be worse than yesterday?



It wouldn't be until later in the afternoon, about an hour before the first rounds of the Beach Band Battles would start that the princess's hunch would be right. Up until that point things had gone well, all of Jackie's friends managing to make it down to the beach and having a good time with Sunset's friends from CHS.

And then Jackie showed up.

With the Dazzlings.

Why was Twilight burdened with the gift of being right most of the time?

Things immediately got a bit awkward, mainly on the CHS side as the girls shuffled a bit, Fluttershy shrinking back some and Applejack putting up her guard a bit. Each of the sirens responded in their own way to the tension, Adagio simply smirked, Aria gave a huff and crossed her arms, and Sonata responded by... not really responding at all as she just waved to them all before bouncing up to Tino and starting a conversation.

The most tension came from Jackie and Sunset though, the guitarist putting on her best smile but her shaking right knee gave away just how nervous she really felt. Sunset put up a cold front, trying not to seem bothered when she so obviously was.

"So good to see all of you again. A bit sooner than I expected, but I suppose in such a small world one can't not see another for the rest of their lives."

Not many responded to Adagio's words until Rainbow Dash seemed to man up and take a stab at conversation.

"Yeah, guess that sort of thing just happens..."

"Mm. Jackie here has told me a bit about how you all are doing. Sorry to hear about that dreadful business during the Friendship Games."

"Yeah. Really sucked."

Okay not a great conversation but it seemed to get the ball rolling. More of the girls started to open up, as did Jackie's friends and they made more attempts at conversation with the rest of the sirens. All the while Sunset kept an eye on Jackie, feeling her blood start to heat up as she saw Adagio hanging off of the guitarist. The final straw was when the siren shot a smirk in her direction.

"Adagio! Can I please speak to you? Over there?"

Removing herself from Jackie, the siren followed Sunset Shimmer far enough away so that they would not be overheard by their friends, said friends casting worried glances at each other.

"Okay, what is your deal?!" 

Unaffected by the snap from Sunset, Adagio simply examined her well manicured nails nonchalantly.

"You'll have to be more specific."

"You know damn well what I mean! The kiss yesterday and now you hanging all over Jackie, you said you weren't here to cause trouble for me!"

"Oh, did you mistake my intentions? Silly me."

God that smirk was infuriating! 

"I am trying to help you Shimmer, really I am. You see, if you won't simply take what you want, like say a certain blue haired guitarist, then how can you really be angry if someone else snatches her up? You really should just man up and make your intentions clear, otherwise she'll get tired of being strung along sooner or later."

Sunset's teeth were clenched as she hissed out her next words.

"And if I asked you to stop because you're pissing me off?"

"You know I won't. Because I doubt you've told many, if any, of your friends what's going on between you and Jackie?"

The silence brought a triumphant grin to Adagio's face.

"I thought not. And because you can't be honest and go after what you want, your friends have no idea and I can keep going with this little game. You being angry is just icing on the cake, as they say."

At this point Sunset was ready to pull her hair out. Or strangle Adagio, whichever way the wind blew at this rate. Her hands were clenched so hard into fists that her nails were digging into her skin.

"You have no right to play around with us like this!"

"Oh? This coming from the girl who likes to play with her own personal puppet?"

"I do NOT treat Jackie like a puppet!"

"But you were content to stick your hand in her and make her dance a few days before."

That comment had successfully stunned Sunset, the red head blushing and at momentarily at a loss for words as Adagio continued to smirk. With a fabulous flip of her hair, the bikini clad siren turned and headed back to the group.

"I'm serious though, Shimmer. You should give Jackie more credit than what you do. Otherwise someone is going to snatch her away and you'll be left crying in the corner."

Unable to think of anything else to say and officially in a foul mood, Sunset scowled and followed Adagio back to her friends.

Today was just going to be fan-fucking-tabulous.




> Just Get It Off My Chest
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Now, this may come as a total shocker to anyone who asked, but Poppy was feeling a bit pissed off. Granted she tended to at least look annoyed or indifferent since most of the time she either had a scowl or neutral look on her face, but for those who knew her, they could pick up on the nuances. 

Like right now, if she weren't pissed off then she would just have a scowl as she set up her drums on the stage in preparation for the Pony Breakers to put on their best for the first round of the competition. But as she checked on everything to make sure it was in place and nothing would fall apart, there was a crease in her brow and a sharpness in her eyes as she had to get out yet another piece of duct tap to fix up one of the drums. 

No, the drums weren't making her angry. Her kit had never done her wrong and she did her best to treat it with tender loving care until the day she finally made enough money to get a slightly less shittier drum set. No, what was currently boiling the magenta haired woman's piss was the tension in the air, coming from two certain individuals in the band. Namely Sunset Shimmer who was off to the side glaring at nothing in particular most of the time since her mood seemed further soured after the talk with that Adagio chick with the super big fluffy hair. The other individual being their lead guitarist Jackie Vibrato who was now reciting her very own 'guitarist's prayer', normally uttered when she was very nervous. And judging by the fact it looked like there was a level ten earthquake going on in her right knee, the blue haired woman was indeed, at that point.

"Oh lords of music, who rock in heaven or upon Earth,
Hallowed be thy names,
Thy kingdoms that have come, 
Thy wills who have and will be done,
On Earth as it is in the plane of music!

Give me my daily muses,
And forgive my tresspasses into pop!
As I should forgive those
That tresspass against me!

And lead me not into the temptation of selling out
but deliver me from becoming the music flavor of the month!

For you have built a kingdom! 
A legacy of power and glory!
To live on forever and ever!

A-FUCKING-MEN!"

Believe it or not, she took an actual prayer and worked it into that, along with a second one when she wanted to give praise to those she considered the 'gods of rock', a.k.a. the musicians she loved and idolized. Normally Poppy found it harmless enough, about as annoying whenever Jackie brought a backpack to a place that gave out free food or all you can eat and tried to make off with an entire tray or two. Right now though it was as annoying as whenever they got into arguments about the Jem cartoon and Jackie said the Misfits were the best thing about the show. Which she CLEARLY was wrong about because Jem and the Holograms were fucking fabulous and had the best songs!

The point being right now because Sunset and Jackie were on edge, it was effecting both her and Tino as well. The poor guy was just standing around awkwardly, not saying anything since there was clearly something going on. Poppy had at first thought that it was because of what Jackie said on the beach but with how heavy and tense things were, it had to be something else.  Not that there was much else that could be done about it, they only had five minutes before they had to perform and she was pretty sure there was no way to get those two to hash it out before then.

So with a sigh and a sense of dread, Poppy had finished checking and fixing her drum kit and glanced over to Tino.

"Let's get this over with. Maybe if we're lucky it'll be a quick death."





Meanwhile, in the crowds around the stage, the gang from CHS and Los Pegasus had managed to muscle their way up near to the front so that they could get a better view of their friends about to perform. Between Rainbow Dash and Aria, they had gotten up there with little to no trouble, only running into a snag when a hipster looking asshole tried to get lippy, but immediately wilted and stepped aside when Aria, arms crossed, flexed, making the muscles on her already toned arms stand out further as she shot the guy a glare.

"Dang, nice guns!" 

Complimented Rainbow Dash, grinning as she cleared a bigger space for Fluttershy since the girl seemed to be struggling some in the crowds. Although she tried to put on a too cool to care attitude, there was the slightest twitch in the corner of Aria's mouth.

"Thanks. Training to enter the MMA circuit."

"Seriously?!"

"Yeah. I mean come on, I get paid to beat people up. What's better than that?"

Adagio, who had easily slipped through the crowd, gave a soft sigh and lightly ruffled her sister's short hair.

"I do wish you hadn't gotten rid of your hair though. It completely throws off our aesthetic."

"Hey, not like we're a band anymore. Besides, seemed like it'd be too big a pain in the ass to keep tying it up for training or a match."

"I think it looks cool!" 

Aria jumped when suddenly Pinkie Pie appeared to her left, Sonata appearing to her right at the exact same moment.

"Yeah Ari! You look all tough and butch and stuff!"

That last quip made Aria scowl and pinch her sister's nose hard between her thumb and forefinger. Not enough to seriously hurt but enough that Sonata started whining and trying to pull the other's hand off.

"Lettgo! Ohdagio!" 

"Now, now, play nice girls."

With a 'tch', Aria let go of Sonata's nose, the blue haired siren pouting and rubbing it to get rid of the slightly numb feeling. The rest of the group had all settled in, with the exception of a certain blonde farmer that did not go unnoticed by Twilight.

"Hey, where'd AJ go?"

"She said she saw an old friend and went to go speak with her."

While speaking with someone who was essentially her from another world did put the human Twilight off kilter, Sparky seemed to adapting fairly well. Plus, it was cute seeing both their Spikes interact! Right now both dogs were silent in their arms, understanding it probably wasn't the best idea to start talking in the middle of a crowd. Her own Spike's newfound intelligence had come a long way and it had been fun teaching him things.

Eventually a silence fell over the crowd as the MC, Sugar Hay, got up on stage and introduced the three judges, which included a former bassist for the band Sublime, a producer who hadn't produced a good selling album in years, and the biggest name on the panel, Sapphire Shores. When that was done, the Pony Breakers were introduced, the crowd cheering and some members of the group like Fluttershy and Twilight, sharing worried looks since the mood coming from the band still seemed pretty down.

While they started off fine at first, Jackie playing the first chords the rolled into the lyrics, when Sunset Shimmer began to seem it almost seemed as if the two were at odds for each other. Sunset would give Jackie a look, it would effect Jackie who would start to play more aggressively that was a bit off putting for the tempo. None of them would say it was a bad performance but it certainly wasn't good either, which left most of the group holding their breath as the judges tallied the scores. Said breath was released when it was announced that the Pony Breakers had scored high enough to pass... barely. Twilight rubbed her temple as she watched, concerned as she saw Sunset stalk off the stage with Jackie immediately following after her.

'I really hope you guys fix this...'



	

"Just what the hell is your problem Sunset?!"

Not in the mood, Sunset just kept on walking, trying her best to ignore Jackie as the woman scrambled to put her guitar away into it's case, leaving the rest of the clean up for Tino and Poppy as she chased after the red-head.

"Why don't you just leave me alone?!"

"Hell no! You've been jerking me around these past few days and I'm sick and tired of it! If you're still mad about what I said yesterday, I'm sorry! Okay!? I didn't mean for it to go that far but I've just been really frustrated with this!"

Sunset just kept on walking, down the beach, not noticing they were getting further away from the crowds and other people. They were starting to enter a part of the beach that had little to no one around, as most people were either at the music contest or had gone off to get an early dinner now that the sun was creeping closer to the horizon line.

"So what?! That's no reason for you to go traipsing off with Adagio for the whole night and not answer your phone!"

"Alright, so I'm sorry I didn't answer my phone- wait, traipsing?"

"Right, I bet you were so busy checking out Adagio's mouth that you couldn't check your damn phone!"

"Okay, that's more shocking than someone actually using traipsing in a sentence. What the fuck are you talking about?"

At this, Sunset had to stop and turn around, throwing her hands up and giving Jackie a disbelieving look.

"Oh come on! You let her kiss you yesterday and you sure as hell looked like you enjoyed it! I bet you were just all too eager to spend the night with her after that!"

"Okay. WHOA. And slow your roll, Sunshine!"

Jackie had stopped and held up a hand for emphasis.

"Yeah I went back to her place. AGAINST MY WILL. Serious! Those three kidnapped me! I almost didn't fall asleep on their couch that night because I was so nervous they'd like, do something! I mean, I would've locked myself in their bathroom if I wasn't sure Aria would hulk out and rip it off it's hinges! And second, yeah Adagio kissed me yesterday and that kiss... I mean Jesus, Sunshine, you'd have to experience it to know why I stood no chance."

The sharp look from Sunset made the guitarist quickly raise a finger to halt whatever the other was about to say.

"BUT! But, I was not interested in doing anything with her, alright? I mean come on! I don't sleep with someone just because they kiss me!"

"Riiiight. So I just imagined that's what we did Thursday then?"

"Oh... right."

With an annoyed huff, Sunset turned away and contemplated continuing her trek down the beach but a frustrated Jackie had other plans.

"Dammit, why are you getting so angry with me? I mean, I didn't do anything! And you haven't tried talking to me about what the hell that was all about when we had sex!"

"It's not like you tried talking about it either!"

Sunset shot back, crossing her arms as she turned back to face Jackie, the guitarist also looking fairly pissed off and her hands clenched into fists as she spoke up.

"Well I tried talking to you about it yesterday before freaking Adagio assaulted my mouth with hers!"

"Yes, I could tell you were really trying!"

"Oh get off your fucking high horse and cut the bullshit! Erm, pun not intended if that counts as one! Cause you know, you're actually a you know and-ugh! Not the point! The point if you haven't been talking about it either and you're the one who freaking initiated! So what am I supposed to think cause it sure as hell seems as if you didn't give a flying fuck!"

"What, so if I said I wanted to get together you'd just go along with it even if you didn't feel the same way?"

"What? That's stupid! Why would I do that?!"

"Because you're so damn nice! I mean god damn Jackie, you've done so much for me already! Why wouldn't it be possible to think you'd just go along with it to spare my feelings!?"

"I... okay maybe! But you still could of just said something! You could of said that to take the pressure off and then it wouldn't of been a problem! So what the fuck kept you from doing that so we could talk about this shit!?"

"Hey, I could ask you the same thing! Just what the hell kept you from talking about it?!"

"Well excuse the fuck out of me if I was scared and had no idea how to handle this!"

"Scared!?"

"Fuck yeah! Sunshine, you're gorgeous! You're amazing and smart and I love being around you! And you've got a guaranteed future with you going off to college where you're probably going to get some fancy degrees and some high paying job! And then I'm just some dumb ex-drug using party chick with a lot of skeletons in her closet that just barely passed high school, whose only good at playing guitar and who has to bust her ass to barely make a living until hopefully one day her band makes it big! And with you not saying anything I thought that you weren't serious and there was no way you'd even consider a relationship with a loser like me!"

"You're not a fucking loser, Jackie! And what, you thought I wasn't scared either?! I acted on an impulse because I got caught up in wanting to live in the moment and wanted to go for what I wanted because you're so sweet and cute and I care about you a whole hell of a lot! But afterwards I started thinking about college and the distance! The fact that I'm actually a unicorn and that one day maybe I'll go back to Equestria and I'll never even see you again! What if there's more magical crap that pops up around me and you get hurt again!? And on top of all of that I worry that my issues aren't all gone and one day I'll just wear you down so much because you always want to be there for me and I'll either wear you down or you'll get sick of it and leave!"

"Well then I guess we both have issues!"

"Obviously!"

"SO IF I'M RIGHT AND I THINK WE BOTH FEEL THE SAME WAY, WHY ARE WE STILL YELLING?!"

"I DON'T KNOW!!!"

By the end of it, both were slightly red faced and panting, having finally put all their cards on the table and just letting the situation sink in. Then a small snicker, a snicker that turned into giggling and chuckling until finally both gave a few, short, sad laughs. Jackie running her fingers through her hair as she gave a weak smile to Sunset.

"God... we're both really messed up, huh?"

"Mm... we're both pretty dumb too."

"Yeah... well you're pretty dumb. I'm more handsome dumb."

That caused Sunset Shimmer to give a soft snort of laughter as a slightly triumphant grin came to Jackie's face.

"You're such a dork."

Stuffing her hands into her swim trunk pockets, Jackie mosied over to Sunset Shimmer, a soft, affectionate look in her eyes.

"Yeah... but I'd like to be your dork. If you still want to give this a shot."

"... yeah, I'd like to give it a shot."

With that said, Jackie leaned in and pressed her lips to Sunset's, the red-head slowly closing her eyes and enjoying the moment. They kept going for a little longer with Sunset's hands moving to rest on Jackie's shoulders while the guitarist's hands were at her waist, the view around them perfect as the sky was just beginning to change to it's warm colors of yellows and reds as the setting sun cast it's glow over the world. When they broke apart, the two were slightly breathless but smiles were firmly in place, Jackie's turning goofy as she suggestively waggled her eyebrows "So uh, wanna find a nice secluded spot and-?"

Rolling her eyes, Sunset lightly slapped her palm against Jackie's chest, making the guitarist start laughing as she backed up a bit. Yet she was stopped when Sunset reached out and gently took the other's hand, linking their fingers. 

"How about we just head back? I'm sure the others are wondering where we are."

"Ooo, eager to show off the trophy rock star girlfriend, huh?"

"Totally." 

"That's some pretty heavy sarcasm there, Sunshine."

"Really now?"

Sunset had a playful grin on her face as Jackie bumped their shoulders together, the two beginning a leisurely walk back to where the Beach Band Battles were being held. After all that yelling and joking, it was just nice to quietly enjoy each other's company now that they had made it clear how they felt. When they finally made it back, they saw Jackie's friends, the two Twilights, some chick with dark hair in ringlets and who was wearing a hat and sunglasses, and the Sirens, but now the rest of their friends were missing. And it could have been Sunset's imagination, but without looking at the band on stage and only hearing their last notes, the song sounded familiar.  Jackie was more interested in finding where the other's had gone.

"Hey Twilight, Sparky, y'all. Where's-"

"THANK YOU LOS PEGASUUUUUUS! Let us Rainbooms know how awesome you think we are!!!"

Both Jackie and Sunset's eyes immediately snapped to the stage, eyes wide as they saw Rainbow Dash standing at the forefront with arms raised as the crowd cheered. 

"Thank you! And let's give a round of applause to two people who made this possible! Sapphire Shores! A good friend of our keytarist Rarity who was gracious enough to help us sign up at the last minute!"


A loud cheer as Sapphire Shores stood and waved.

"And our bassist's good friend for wrangling us some equipment last minute!"

"Who could of done that?"

Questioned Sunset, wondering until Twilight tapped her on the shoulder, motioning to the young woman in the hat and whispering into Sunset's ear.

"Her. That's Rara! Formerly known as Countess Coloratura! Oh! And you holding Jackie's hand means you've worked things out, right?"

That... was certainly some coincidence. Ignoring Twilight for now, Sunset slowly looked over to her girlfriend, who appeared to be in a state of shock as she stared on stage at a band who not only knew someone who had gotten them replacement equipment in time, but ALSO was now in a competition where a judge was friends with one of their members.

".... Jackie?"

".... Rainbow Dash you mother FUCKER!!!!"




> Fuckin' and Fightin'
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


By the time the Rainbooms left the stage, packed up their borrowed equipment and met back up with their friends on the beach, one could have thought of many different paths the universe could take from here, based on timing, happenstance and choices, the combinations of them leading to a multitude of different outcomes. Between Princess Twilight, human Twilight and Sunset Shimmer, they had managed to run through many of them through their minds in some vain hope that they could inflict their will on the future to avoid what they all saw coming next as Jackie and Rainbow Dash were face to face again.

"YOU MOTHER FUCKER!!!"

Obviously it did not work. With an uneasy sigh escaping her, Sunset placed a hand on Jackie's shoulders in an attempt to get her to calm down some.

"Jackie-"

"You got some set of cajones on you jock-itch!"

Apparently she was oh and two for ideas so far.

"Uh, Jacks? You say it cojones, not cajones. Gotta' get that pronunciation right even if you are mad."

"Not now Tino!"

By this point a slightly perturbed looking Rainbow Dash had gone to downright agitated as she crossed her arms and glared at Jackie.

"Gee, I wonder what happened to that confidence yesterday? Guess you're all talk like I thought you were! Especially after that weak ass performance you had on stage!"

"Oh fuck you! There were issues going on, otherwise we would've rocked it harder than you!"

"Talk about a pathetic excuse..."

Just when Jackie was ready to slap that annoying smirk off of Rainbow Dash's face, she suddenly felt a pair of hands on her shoulder and a terrifyingly familiar voice so close to her ear that she felt a chill run down her spine.

"I think you did well, Vibrato. But if you were dealing with nerves, perhaps I could help you... relax next time before you go on stage."

The blue haired woman slipped out of Adagio's grip so fast it was like she was a greased up Cheetah! She quickly moved behind Sunset Shimmer and wrapped her arms around the red head's waist, as both her way of wanting to assure Sunset that she was the only girl for her... and to have a sort of shield against the devious succubus that seemed very good at getting her into trouble.

"Nope! Nuh-uh! I'm taken! YOU HAVE NO POWER OVER ME WOMAN!"

"So you two finally got together? Shame, and I was having so much fun..."

"SO YOU GUYS REALLY DID IT!?"

The news was taken as expected by Twilight, the princess of harmony's eyes wide and a bit smile on her face as she looked for confirmation from Sunset. Bobby... well, he pretty much knew what was going on and seemed happy for them, anticipating a 'yes'. Others looked slightly confused or shocked, or a sort of shocked happy. 

"Um, not exactly the way I would've liked to bring about the information. But yeah, me and Jackie are together now."

Then came the expected noise, a couple of squeals (mostly from Twilight, Rarity and Sonata), some congratulations, and others staring on and simply watching the scene. Poppy crossed her arms and shook her head before speaking up.

"So that's why you two have been acting edgy. Drama?"

"A bit. But me and Sunshine finally worked it out and we're gonna give this thing a try."

"... I'll give you guys two months."

"Really? I would've bet an average of six."

Both Sunset and Poppy exchanged a grin as Jackie pouted, but was quickly mollified when her new girlfriend turned and nuzzled her cheek. Which of course earned them a round of 'awwwwws' from their audience.

Applejack was one of the few who simply watched on after handing out a hearty 'congratulations', until she felt someone moved closer to her side. Without even looking, the blonde wrapped an arm around Rara's shoulders as the pop star pressed further against her side. 

"Givin' ya' ideas, Rara?"

"Maybe. Think you could slip away for a bit tonight?"

"Ah'm thinkin' Ah could..."

The two shared a smile before Applejack glanced over and noticed that Rainbow Dash wasn't as happy for Sunset and Jackie as the rest of their friends were. Actually she had more of a strange, neutral look on her face that was only dropped when Applejack reached over and gave the athlete's shoulder a hard push.

"Rainbow Dash? Hey, ya' okay girl?"

"Huh? Oh, yeah, great..."

"Don't sound great."

"Hey, I'm fine okay!"

The snap from Dash didn't go unnoticed, all eyes moving to put hero on the spot now as a confused Sunset asked the obvious.

"Something wrong, Dash?"

"Nope. Just can't wait to give your new girlfriend a thrashing tomorrow."

Hackles raised again, Jackie moved away from Sunset and took a challenging step towards Rainbow Dash.

"You wanna say that again!? Cause let me tell you, now that my head's on straight again there is NO way some precious pop rock princess like you is gonna do better than me!"

"FUCK YOU! If we went right here and now, my guitar skills would destroy you!"

"Oh you wanna go? We can go bro! Right here! Right now!"

"Oh god..." 

That last comment had been uttered by Poppy, face palming in an attempt to hide her identity as the macho tool and Rainbow Dash started garnering attention from others around them.

"Could you guys not do this here? And possibly shut up?"

"See? Your friend actually has some brains and knows you suck."

"... okay, I'm out, do what you want Jackie."

With permission from a person to go wild, Jackie cracked her knuckles and smirked to Rainbow Dash.

"It's on mother fucker!"





About twenty minutes later and after convincing Sugar Hay to give them the stage for about twenty minutes, which included a quick set up of their guitars and amps as they prepared to do battle, Sunset Shimmer simply watched on with her friends as a thought came to mind.

"So, how did Dash get you all to go along with signing up for the competition? I mean, I think most of you would be against a kind of dickish move like this..."

Rarity would be the first to speak up.

"Well, at first I was against it, but then Rainbow Dash promised she'd model for me!"

"Wait, really?"

"Oh yes! How could I possibly say no when she even agreed to model for some of my more feminine attire?!"

To say the very least, that was indeed shocking. Sunset looked past an excited Rarity to the rest of the girls, Pinkie Pie going next.

"She promised that if we won any cash prizes, she'd use her share to buy me sweets!"

"U-Um... she asked very nicely?"

"Ah jes wasn't worried. Ah mean the way Ah figure it, Dash's jes got a wild hair up her butt and things'll work out. Plus Ah din't wanna deal with Dash buggin' me." 

The answers just seemed to confuse Sunset more than anything. Why was Rainbow Dash so desperate to enter the contest? She hadn't even seemed to care until she got into that argument with Jackie but this seemed a bit extreme just to satisfy a competitive urge. There wasn't much time to figure this puzzle out since soon the two guitarists took to the stage and were ready to begin. Normally she might be worried that they'd get too into it and go into their Pony Modes, but the Pony Breakers were already known for their 'special effects' so this would probably be written off as a stunt for the most part.

Things started off slow at first, both started with a few warm up notes and being at least a little civil as they gave room for the other to pick up the notes the other left and turn it into their own thing. Then things got heated, one would pull off something impressive and the other would do their best to do better, one upping each other until things got downright nasty. The music clashed as much as it seemed to meld together, like a dangerous dance as swords clashed, Jackie with her alternative rock style of play and Rainbow Dash with her pop toned rock. Then light began to surround them and Sunset waited for the wings, pony tails and ears.

Well there were the wings as expected. And that was basically the only thing that went the way Sunset had expected it to. 

The red-head's eyes practically bulged out of her skull as she saw differences start to appear. No pony ears, no pony tails... instead for Rainbow Dash, a pair of dark blue metal pauldrons and gardbrace's with gold trim appearing on her shoulders, along with a pair of vambraces of the same color scheme that did not manage to hamper her playing. The blue and gold metal goggles that had appeared, not over the eyes but instead more resting above on the forehead, had the same sort of shape as a viking helmet around the eye area, even having a nose guard and a wing decoration that also doubled as a sort of protection for the cheeks, temples and side of the head.

Jackie's transformation was startling as well, her wings now leather and scaled with a claw on the pollex, on the right side of her face from temple going down the side of her neck and disappearing into the t-shirt, was a black, tribal looking tattoo. It also appeared over the right wing and down the guitarist's right arm to the tips of her fore and middle finger, giving off the idea that the tattoo was all over the right side of Jackie's body. When the blue haired guitarist grinned it... were her canines sharp like fangs now?! And it looked like there was smoke that escaped either her nose or mouth as she kept playing. Twilight basically voiced the question that was probably in all of their heads by now.

"What in the world is going on!?"

"I... I don't know!"

Sunset had no better answer than that. Yes it looked as if magic had filled the two, but this wasn't a Pony Mode, this looked like something completely different now! The questions would have to wait as the playing and crowd reached a fever pitch now, everything coming to a head as Rainbow Dash pushed her assault and seemed to have Jackie in a corner as with one, final strum she unleashed a blast of sound that nearly sent Jackie off stage. The woman dug in, still playing as she pushed against the wall of sound before slamming out a note from her own guitar. Her own wall of sound seemed to nullify Dash's attack but then a follow up note was struck, sending a ball of fire right at Rainbow Dash! It hit her guitar dead center, the instrument dying with a ear grating squeal as the chords strained and snapped before the entire thing exploded, sending Rainbow Dash flying off stage and ending with a rough landing in the sand.

The roar of the crowd that followed was deafening, most of them going wild as a panting Jackie smirked in triumph and raised her hands into the air in victory! 

"Hells yeah! That's how we do in So-Peg!"

However, she frowned when she noticed Sunset frantically motioning for her to get off of the stage, which she quickly did and met the group backstage, shooting a confused, questioning look to a flabbergasted Sunset.

"... what?"

"Jackie, you no longer have ears and a pony tail, you have a tattoo on one side of your body and you're breathing smoke, and you just shot a FUCKING FIREBALL!"

"Okay? Ah shit, is Rainbow Dash okay?"

"Applejack is going to check on her. But Jackie, YOU DIDN'T DO ANY OF THIS THE LAST TIME YOU... Jackie, this isn't Pony Mode anymore! It doesn't look like any of the other times before when you or our other friends used Equestrian magic! And now Rainbow Dash's form was different too!"

"Hey, she looked different too during the Friendship Games!"

"With dark magic, yeah! But this is supposed to be light magic!"

"Well I don't know what to tell you, Sunshine! It's just... it's just different! I mean, look-wise, I don't feel any different from before!"

The guitarist was waving her hands helplessly, not really finding this a big deal but trying to placate her frustrated girlfriend. However her right wing which had the tattoo on it was pulled open by Pinkie Pie, the party planner looking as excited as ever as she began to gush.

"Oh my gosh Jacks! You look sooooo cooooool! I mean, Dashie looked super cool as well but I mean wow! You got a tattoo and you're breathing smoke and stuff! You're like a human dragon!"

"So wait, what does this mean? I thought dragons in this world were dogs?"

Princess Twilight looked to be just as confused and frustrated as Sunset Shimmer as she tried to figure this out, Spike popping his head out and scowling.

"Yeah! If I could of been a human then why wasn't I!?"

"Maybe... maybe because Jackie was born a human? But this doesn't mean for sure in Equestria she'd be a dragon, she used to have feathered wings and pony ears..."

"True, Sunset... but the way the magic in this world acts is finicky at best. I mean, one moment it activates just based on friendship, then instruments were needed during the Battle of the Bands, and then even your form changed during the Friendship Games, you had wings and a horn like an alicorn while during the Battle of the Bands you just had the pony tail and ears. And as far as I know, you're not an Alicorn... right?"

"I... don't know."

Twilight and Sunset were deep in thought over this with Sparky off to the side and listening intently. After quickly adjusting her glasses, the girl spoke up when she caught their attention.

"All we can say for sure is that whatever magic in this world does indeed seem to change, that much we know to be true. May I suggest that maybe... maybe it's changing so much because it's trying to adapt to this world?"

She blushed when both Twilight and Sunset stared questioningly at her, becoming aware of all the eyes on her before she gathered the courage to continue.

"Well, I have studied the magic going on at the school. And um, if it's not too awkward for me to talk about because of um... what I did during the Friendship Games, then I will let you know that my readings of the magic there seemed to become different over time. Fluctuations, readings seeming to vary, data seeming to contradict itself. Sunset, you've told me you brought magic from Equestria, where there's magic ponies and creatures but no humans. Maybe whatever magic you've brought is trying to adapt and find it's place in a world populated by a dominate species it's never encountered before in a world where there was no magic and no common means of being able to use magic?"

As Sunset and Twilight mulled it over, both could concede than in a way it made sense but it still left a lot of questions left unanswered and added even more questions now. The prominent one being that, if Equestrian magic was indeed converting and adapting into some sort of human magic, what would be the unforeseeable consequences in the future? 

"I guess there's no way to know for sure without finding a way to study this..."

Was the conclusion that Sunset would settle on for now, giving a frustrated sigh and remembering when she had tried to study her Canterlot friend's when they went into Pony Mode. That had been a series of disasters but if the only reason she failed was because the magic was constantly changing to try and adapt, then it was worth giving it all another try.

However the serious mood was alleviated some as Adagio smirked and strutted over to Jackie, causing the guitarist's entire face to heat up as the bold siren tugged at the collar of Jackie's t-shirt to look down it and instantly getting Sunset's goat.

"Well, I am more curious to see the extent of our cute little guitarist's tattoo..."

"Hands off my girlfriend Adagio!!!"




> It's All The Same
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


While Applejack had indeed been sent to check up on Rainbow Dash, she hadn't ventured off alone. Sure Rara found her friend's company enjoyable, it was, admittedly, getting a bit too crazy for the pop star. Granted Applejack had told her stories of the goings on at CHS after they reconnected, having sworn Rara to secrecy, but to actually experience it first hand wasn't the most relaxing way to spend her time off. Which was what lead to them looking for Rainbow Dash, who seemed to have slipped away after being launched off the stage. They probably could have covered more ground if they had split up, but then she wouldn't be holding the farmer's hand or experiencing the last, fading rays of the setting sun that would give way to what promised to be a beautiful, warm spring night.

It was a bit selfish of her admittedly, on the search partly to spend time with Applejack but she so desperately wanted to make up for lost time. Her time spend with the blonde as children at Camp Friendship had been some of her most cherished memories, but when she had moved to Manehattan and strove to become a rising star in the music industry, she had almost forgotten them. Rara put aside everything she was by command of her insecurities, mimicking what she thought it would take to become a star, to become something she thought the public wanted. It wasn't until she reconnected with Applejack and got her head on straight that she could be herself... and re-examine old memories and feelings. 

At this point she had taken her sunglasses off, keeping the hat on as a way to help make her less than easily recognizable. She continued scanning the beach but took a glance over at Applejack every now and then.

"Got somethin' on yer mind?"

A soft blush came to Rara's cheeks at being caught and a slightly shy smile came to her face. 

"Sorry. I'm just... so happy to be near you again."

"Shucks, no need ta' sweet talk me, Rara."

"I mean it, AJ. I know it's easy to keep in contact these days, but it's not the same as actually being by your side."

"Well hey, don't go focusin' on that. Jes' focus n' all the time we got together right now this week."

Both walked in a peaceful silence after that, up until Coloratura spotted a rather colorful mop of hair up ahead. Applejack had also spotted the athlete up ahead, sitting on the beach and staring out over the water. 

"Go on, it'll be for the best if it's just you talking to her."

"Ah don't wanna leave ya' by yerself."

With a soft smile, Rara leaned in and kissed Applejack's cheek.

"I'm a big girl, Applejack, I'll be fine until you come back."

After giving Rara that lopsided grin she found so endearing, the young woman watched the blonde walk away for a moment or two before taking a seat on the sand, breathing in deep she looked out over the ocean.

The farmer would slowly approach, trying and failing to gauge the athlete's mood as Rainbow Dash continued to stare out into the distance with a soft scowl on her face. Applejack would simply take a seat next to the other, in no rush to plunge right in and simply waiting for the right moment. 

"... ya' looked interestin' up on stage. Differen' from before."

A small grunt was given in reply.

"Certainly looked like ya' was goin' all out. Seemed like a lotta' effort jes' fer a small thing like that."

Silence. Great, so they'd somehow taken a step backward. Time to just go in and kick the nest to see what fell out.

"Ya' know ya' acted like a jerk, right?"

"Vibrato was the bigger jerk!"

Progress! 

"Ah ain't gonna say she wasn't actin' jerkish er nothin', but why'd ya' do all that? Other jerks've said worse things to ya' than what she did yesterday Dash, but ya' challenged her, somehow got the Rainbooms signed up, n' then ya' do that whole thing on stage n' get magic involved. What is it that's buggin' ya'?"

While the silence that met her might have seemed like the progress was undone, Applejack had known Rainbow Dash long enough to pick up on little signs. The way she shifted a bit, slight twitch in the fingers, scowl deepening some, whatever the answer was it was going to burst out of Rainbow Dash sooner or later.  Her patience was rewarded when Rainbow Dash let out a frustrated sigh before speaking.

"You remember the Friendship Games? When Chrysalis messed with our heads and made us evil and stuff? When i was like that, I blamed Jackie for taking Sunset away from us and that she'd never be friends with us again because of that..."

"Okay?"

"I can look back on it and say that I meant it." 

By now Rainbow Dash was sitting cross legged, glaring down to the sand as her hands clenched into fists.

"If she hadn't just come along and whisked Sunset away we... we could have worked it out. I know it would've taken awhile because we really screwed up, but things could of gone back to the way they were before that whole Anon-A-Miss shit happened!"

"Dash... ya' know that's not true."

"You don't know that!"

The blonde watched, a sadness in her eyes as Rainbow Dash got to her feet and began to pace like a caged animal all wound up.

"I can't... I can't believe that it couldn't have happened. I want to believe that we could have pulled out heads out of our asses in time to fix things! But now we'll never know because Jackie just swept in and took Sunset away from us!"

"Oh come on Dash! There was no fixin' what we did! Ah know it ain't easy ta' get over e'en if Sunset did forgive us after the Friendship Games, but ya' gotta' let this shit go!"

"Why should I!? It's all Jackie's fault things are like this now!"

"What? That things're good? How n' the sam hill is it bad that she kept Sunset safe n' happy?!"

"BECAUSE IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN ME THAT DID ALL THAT!"

The sudden outburst successfully silenced Applejack, who could only stare at the young woman with the prismatic hair. Rainbow Dash was panting slightly and wouldn't look up to meet the blonde's gaze.

"It... it should of been me. Because I was the element of loyalty. Because I was her friend. Because I... because I felt I wanted to be more than just friends with her. After the whole thing with the sirens and the battle of the bands, she kept coming into my mind more. I started noticing all these little things, how her eyes light up when she smiled, the way she laughed... stupid, dumb romantic junk like that. Which was why it hurt all the more when I thought she was Anon-A-Miss. Not just because my reputation took a hit, not just because I thought she hurt you guys... but... I got scared, thinking about how badly she could have hurt me if she found out how I felt and pushed her away. I blew it. And after the Friendship Games I thought I could make up for that and have another chance... but she's with Jackie now. And I fucking blew it again."

The last part was said so softly and sadly that it really tugged at Applejack's heart, the words carrying all of the regret and hurt that the athlete had been bottling up inside. She stepped forward and took the shorter girl into a hug, the athlete half-hearted in reciprocating the gesture but not pulling away. They stayed like this in silence for a couple of minutes until Rainbow Dash finally pulled away, having managed to get a grip on her emotions once more.

"C'mon back with me n' Rara, Dash. The others r' worried 'bout ya'."

"... I just want to be alone, AJ."

"Ah know. But Ah ain't leavin' ya' alone on this beach, now c'mon."

Too emotionally drained to ague, the athlete simply nodded and walked alongside Applejack, the farmer speaking up before they got in earshot of Coloratura.

"Ya' know ya' can't keep blamin' n' bein' jealous of Jackie. Right?"

"... I'll get over it."

"Not what Ah asked."

"..." 

The athlete would be entirely silent on the way back to their friends.





"Jesus Christ today was a pain in the ass! It's only the second day but there's been WAY too much drama." 

Whined Jackie as she walked into the bedroom, running a comb through her slightly damp hair as she shut the door behind her. Twilight had insisted she give up her and Spike's part of the room now that she and Sunset were together. Which lead to a bit of shuffling about as Bobby gave up his couch for them and moved to sleep in the chair.  

"I wouldn't say it was all bad..."

"Well yeah, we got together after... all."

Having turned around and gotten a proper look towards the bed, Jackie's mind seemed to flat line for a moment when she saw Sunset Shimmer on their bed, in just a pair of those cotton shorts and without her top on. Wait, why was she being more dumbstruck by this now that they were together? AND after she had already seen her girlfriend's goods even before they got together? Sunset seemed to have picked up on this as a coy smile came to her face as she looked over her shoulder to her girlfriend.

"Cat got your tongue, Jacks?"

"Uh? Wait, wouldn't it be a unicorn in this case?"

The guitarist grinned as a pillow was chucked at her, easily catching it before walking over to the bed and sitting down on her side. 

"I dunno... I guess things just always seem different when you take a big step like this, Sunshine."

"I can understand that. I remember it being the same way when me and Flash Sentry got together. The nerves'll wear off."

"I know. They still like to show up at the beginning though, huh?"

"Yeah..."

Just as Jackie began to lie down and settle in for the night, a still topless Sunset Shimmer smirked as a thought came to mind.

"Hey Jackie. You know that kiss you had with Adagio yesterday?"

"Ugh, come on Sunshine, you know-"

A pair of soft lips cut her off, Sunset having swooped in to silence the guitarist and slip in her tongue the first chance she got. The kiss lasted for a good amount of time, the red head doing things that surprised and blew the guitarist's mind, leaving Jackie dumbstruck for a moment after it ended until she came to her senses with a goofy smile on her face.

"What kiss?"

"That's what I thought."

With a soft giggle, Sunset let Jackie pull her back in for another kiss, the two enjoying their first night together as an official couple and doing anything but sleeping for the next couple of hours. Lack of a proper sleep would be future Sunset and Jackie's problem!




> You'll Finally Get What You Deserve
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	As it turns out, as fun as last night was, future Sunset Shimmer, who was now present Sunset Shimmer, did not appreciate past Sunset Shimmer for staying up so late. The red-head's internal clock always seemed to go off early in the morning whether she wanted it to or not, forcing her to unwillingly pull out of Jackie's embrace, put on a pair of underwear and the t-shirt Jackie wore last night to have a minimum amount of modesty before trudging out to the kitchen to start making coffee. 

Just as the pot had finished filling up, Bobby awoke, yawning and stretching before heading to the bathroom to shower. Then as Sunset was starting to pour her second cup and feeling the reviving effects of the first cup, Twilight and Spike woke up next. The Princess of Harmony yawned before slipping off the couch and heading towards the kitchen, intending to bid her fellow Equestrian good morning but stopped and blushed softly seeing the state of dress that Sunset was in. Of course, Spike was quick to weigh in.

"Whoa, good night last night?"

Rolling her eyes, Sunset smirked down to the small dog who was grinning cheekily in turn.

"Aren't you a little young to be saying something like that?"

"Hey, I can't help it if I'm mature enough for my age I can see what's going on." 

"Yeah... and it probably didn't hurt that when you and Twilight used to live in an actual library, there was probably a section with books like sex-education and such, huh?"

The sheepish grin from Spike was all that needed to be said and the silent, scandalous admission further flustered Twilight as the alicorn turned human sputtered her outrage.

"Spike!"

"Well whenever I asked you about that stuff you just started blushing and rambling until you tried showing me charts and stuff! I figured I should just um... educate myself."

'... nah, too easy.'

Thought Sunset, smirking as she gulped down some more coffee while Twilight began the interrogation to find out just how much Spike knew about the subject.





As they arrived back at the beach later in the afternoon, just about everyone was accounted for. Poppy and Tino were still busy with their jobs, so they'd be by in a bit. Applejack wasn't present and was probably off somewhere with Rara, Rainbow Dash was mysteriously absent. Celestia and Discord were chatting up with their friends.

"Wait, Celestia and Discord?!"

Seeing them had stopped Sunset dead in her tracks, making Jackie come to a stop too since they were holding hands as a light bulb seemed to go off over the guitarist's head.

"Oh yeah! I met up with them on the beach the day before..."

"Why didn't you mention this?"

"Well, between all the drama it kinda slipped my mind?"

With a soft sigh, Sunset decided to just shake it off and put on a smile as they trekked the rest of the way to where their friends were. No problem. Discord was fine if a little eccentric. And this was no different than the times they chatted over the phone, it was just face to face. Face to face with a woman who used to be her principal and who was almost exactly the same as Princess Celestia, the mentor and mother figure she had raged at and hurt in her petulant pursuit of wanting power. 

Yup, no problem at all. It was just Celestia looking hot in that bikini.

.... wait, what?

"Sunset, Jackie, it's good to see you. How are things today Jackie?"

"Lots better Celestia. Me and Sunshine got together yesterday!"

"Really now?"

The red-head blushed and averted her gaze away, seeing that lightly teasing look on Celestia's face where she smiled and slightly raised one of her brows. Not in a bad way, Celestia never made fun of someone but she was definitely seemed a bit amused. The expressions she gave were so scarily similar...

"Yeah.  We did."

"Well I'm happy for the both of you, congratulations."

"Yeah."

Turning her gaze back up, there was a sheepish grin plastered on her face before she glanced around the woman and noticed Discord had run off with Pinkie Pie and Sonata to start building sand sculptures.

"So... you guys chose to come to Los Pegasus for a vacation I guess?"

"Mm-hm, Discord insisted on it. Said it would be good for me to get out of the house and soak up some sun. And he certainly didn't deny when I suggested he also wanted the opportunity to check on how you and the others were doing."

"Yeah, sounds about right."

After an awkward laugh about that, everyone settled in for a bit of beach fun. Between the three of them, Discord, Pinkie and Sonata had some pretty good sand castles and sculptures going, ranging from something that oddly looked similar to Twilight's castle in Equestria to a replica of Celestia as Botineighlli's Birth of Venus. Applejack soon came back around with Rara, the two settling in and Applejack starting cooking up some food on the fire pit for them to eat, Tino coming along to help and Poppy joining soon after. It wouldn't be hard for Sunset to notice that Rainbow Dash still wasn't around.

"Soooo where's Dash?"

There seemed to be a small wave of discomfort that ran through the girls of CHS, looking hesitant to answer until Applejack spoke up.

"She din't feel like comin' to the beach today. Felt like stayin' in."

"Oh yeah? Is she sick or something?"

"Er something' yeah."

"But what about the Beach Band Battles?"

This time it was Fluttershy who spoke up.

"Um... she said that um... well, she opted to drop out, so I guess that's what we're doing."

To hear that Rainbow Dash was actually dropping out of a competition was shocking. The girl never dropped out of a competition or backed away from a challenge, so something must have really been wrong.

"Well, is she okay?"

"Um, she will be, yes. She just needs a bit of time alone."

Despite the uneasiness she felt, Sunset nodded before going over to get some veggie stir fry that Applejack and Tino had collaborated on. It was interesting the flavor combinations the two came up as they mixed cuisines, recipes and ideas. When she retook her seat in the lawn chair next to Jackie, the guitarist seemed to be mulling something over before speaking.

"If she's still upset about me knocking her off stage like that yesterday, I could go apologize to her."

"I don't know if it's just that, though. She seemed really agitated before that and I don't know why."

"Well... may I be allowed to weigh in?"

The couple glanced over to Twilight, pulling a chair over before putting in her two cents.

"She seemed to get really annoyed around Jackie, especially after you both announced that you became a couple yesterday."

While Jackie continued to look confused, a look of realization came over Sunset's face before she sighed, lightly face palming as she sunk down a bit deeper in the sagging old lawn chair. "Great..."

"Uhhhh, what am I missing here?"

"It's... ugh, I really don't want to have to deal with this."

"Deal with what?"

"Nothing Jackie."

However, a pointed look from Twilight told her that no, she was not going to be able to push this off to the side and just try to keep enjoying her spring break. So with a weary sigh, she put on a smile as she looked over to her girlfriend.

"Is it okay if I tell you later? I gotta' do something about it first."

"Sure, you need me to do anything?"

"No. Just have fun, I'm going to go talk with Twilight." 

After planting a kiss on Jackie's cheek, Sunset stood with Twilight and went a ways down the beach so they could have a more private conversation as they walked.

"You're going to tell me I should go talk to Dash right now instead of putting it off."

"Well... yes, but I've been meaning to ask you something. You wrote to me, saying you forgave them after the Friendship Games. What did that entail exactly?"

"Not much honestly. After I talked things out with your human counterpart, they all apologized, I said it was fine, then we kinda hugged it out while they were crying."

"... that's it?"

"That's it."

A soft sigh from Twilight caused Sunset to look sharply over at the other.

"What?"

"It doesn't sound like you really talked about it."

"What was there to talk about? I wasn't angry with them anymore and they'd just went through a lot of shit with Chrysalis screwing with them, what more was there to do?"

"Sunset, that doesn't mean the issue is resolved. Trust me on that."

"... the wedding?"

"Mm-hm. I know I told you I still had negative feelings after the wedding and I didn't handle them very well. Like you I was just so relieved that a big ordeal had been dealt with and that everyone was safe, I just accepted the apology Applejack offered because logically it seemed the right thing to do. But how we feel isn't logical a lot of the time, Sunset. I kept feeling this gnawing in the pit of my stomach and like I had to be on my back foot around my friends and even Spike for some time after the wedding. Yeah I hung out with them but I felt withdrawn or passive aggressive when around them. I had no idea what to do... and it took me a long time to write to Celestia about it to ask for advice."

"A long time? I'd of thought you'd write to her pretty quick."

This seemed to make Twilight pause for a moment, the flash of sadness on her face instantly making Sunset feel guilty that she had inadvertently brought to the other. 

"... that was different. I wasn't angry with her like I was them. Instead I felt like..."

A soft sigh, Twilight's gaze moved to gaze over the ocean into the distance as she tried to figure out the best way to explain how she had felt.

"When she had admonished me, told me I had 'a lot to think about'... I know in the end I had been right but for her to not believe me in the first place, I thought it was my fault. I had acted like a brat when I tried to confront Chrysalis disguised as Cadance. And I felt so ashamed that I had showed that side of myself to her. I know now that Princess Celestia isn't as infallible as I used to think, even she can make mistakes. But back then I just... couldn't accept it. For her to not believe me, it had to be my fault. And I had just wanted to bury that shame so deep and never remember it..."

Hearing all of this made Sunset's jaw clench, averting her gaze to the ground as she flashed back to when she had fought with Princess Celestia. The days leading up to the fight after she had seen herself as an alicorn in the mirror, she'd grown bitter and angry that Celestia had seemed to be keeping her from her destiny. Seeming to keep that knowledge and power to herself. What was wrong with her that Celestia hadn't thought she was ready or was worthy of receiving it?

Sunset shook that thought from her head before turning her attention back to Twilight, who had composed herself and was ready to continue.

"I finally got the nerve to write to her about how I felt. She... she actually cleared her schedule that night and came over to see me so that we could talk face to face. When she finally coaxed out of me how I felt towards her after what happened in the wedding she... she actually start to..."

Twilight paused to take a deep, calming breath before continuing.

"I'd never seen her so upset. We talked long into the night, about my negative feelings towards her and my friends. We patched things up between us, and she told me that ponies didn't heal on a set schedule, that's not how it worked and I shouldn't of felt pressured to forgive just because I worried that the Elements of Harmony wouldn't work if I didn't bury the hatchet. All the explanations in the world couldn't vindicate them of what they did or said what they said if they didn't even give me a proper apology. And trying to just forget the pain you felt and burying it deep inside you... it just grows inside of you and bares bitter fruit in your heart, Sunset."

Swallowing down a lump in her throat, Sunset stopped when Twilight did, unable to look the princess directly in the eye. 

"I know I was just going to tell you that you should talk to Dash about this. But you putting this off reminded me of how you kept putting off talking to them before the Friendship Games or how you kept hesitating to say anything during the Battle of the Bands. You're still uneasy around them Sunset and you're trying so hard not to say what you need to say to them. I know you're in a better place than you were before but you can't truly move past this if you keep holding back."

There was a long silence that followed, Sunset staring down at the sand while Twilight kept watching her, waiting to see what the other would do. Until finally Sunset let out a soft, long sigh.

"I'll go talk to her. But after the Pony Breakers do their round tonight. I'm not bailing on my girlfriend when this can wait."

"Will you be okay?"

"Come on, I'm not gonna break down into a crying mess. I'm way over all that."

After they exchanged smiles, they turned and headed back towards their friends. Although the scene she came upon instantly spiked Sunset's temper since Adagio had just moved over and seated herself right on her girlfriend's lap! 

"Hungry, Jackie? The stir fry is divine, why don't you have a bite?"

Just as she opened her mouth to protest, Adagio plucked up a slice of carrot from the plastic bowl and popped it into the guitarist's mouth. Jackie closed her mouth automatically, her entire face becoming red as the sultry siren ran her finger over the woman's lips. 

"Wasn't that delicious?"

"ADAGIO!!!"





While the performance had not been the best, it had been far better than yesterday. Sunset had only been minimally distracted while performing and the Pony Breakers had ended up with enough points that their shot to place was even better. 

It was evening now as Jackie drove her to the hotel that the CHS gang were staying at, Fluttershy letting her borrow her card key on the off chance Rainbow wouldn't let her in. 

"I know it'd probably be a bad idea but are you sure you don't want me to go up with you?"

The red-head hadn't made a move to open the door and get out yet, not having realized how long she had been sitting there and mentally preparing herself for what had to be done. She glanced over to Jackie and gave a small, reassuring smile.

"It's probably for the best I got up alone, Jackie. Will you be okay waiting?"

"Sure. Just shoot me a text when you're done. Then I'll come back with ice cream. I figure no matter the outcome, ice cream isn't a bad idea."

"Mint chocolate chip?"

"Psh, like I don't know your favorite flavor."

After a smile and a quick kiss, Sunset finally stepped out of the car and headed into the hotel, taking a strangely long elevator ride up to the eighth floor before heading down the hallway. When she finally came to the room that the girls were sharing, she took a deep breath before knocking. 

This seemed to stretch out even longer than that elevator ride.

Just when Sunset was about to fish Fluttershy's card key out of her jeans pocket, the sound of a click caught her attention, her gaze turning up to see the door open and a surprised Rainbow Dash staring at her.

".... hey."

"Hey. Can I come in?"

After a non-committal shrug, the prismatic haired young woman stepped back and let Sunset step inside before closing the door behind her. 

"So... you dropped out of the beach contest?"

"Yeah... I mean, didn't seem like much of a point. I was just kind of being a bitch to your girlfriend. Wanting to win it just to spite her wasn't cool."

"Yeah. You two really clash. I would've thought you'd get along since you have a lot in common."

"Oh yeah? Like what outside of guitars and awesome music?"

"Me."

The look on Rainbow Dash's face was like a kid with their hand caught in the cookie jar, wanting to deny it but she could see just by the look on Sunset's face that it wouldn't fly. Instead Rainbow Dash stuffed her hands into her short's pockets and walked past Sunset.

"So what, Applejack told you what I said yesterday?"

"Applejack didn't tell me anything. I didn't figure it out until Princess Twilight nudged me in the right direction."

"Alright. So what now?"

"I don't know, Dash. How about you tell me? Is this going to be a problem?"

The athlete had turned around, mouth open as if ready to snap back with a response but instead stopped herself. Her mouth closing as she seemed to struggle with what to say, battling against the emotions inside of herself. Her stubborn side drove her to say yes, because she still had feelings for Sunset. But a more rational side she had been trying to cultivate since the Anon-A-Miss incident was telling her to stand down, that it was over. They raged against each other, neither gaining dominance until finally it came down to a question that would break the tie.

"I want you to tell me... if Jackie hadn't come along and taken you away. If we'd manage to figure out the Anon-A-Miss incident and clear your name. Would you and me of had a shot?"

As unexpected as the question was, what was truly upsetting to Sunset Shimmer was that Rainbow Dash had actually asked it. Yet instead of letting her response storm out of her without a second thought, she studied Rainbow Dash's face for a moment. A closer look showed almost a desperation in the other's eyes. She had to know the answer. If this was going to be stopped, right here and now, it'd have to be done properly. Clenching her fists, Sunset closed her eyes for a moment and composed her thoughts before opening them and fixing Rainbow Dash with a stern look that made the athlete flinch slightly.

"You abandoned me, Dash. You tossed me aside in my time of need on the flimsiest evidence and where my motivations made absolutely no sense. If I had stayed and things had somehow managed to work out with the Anon-A-Miss thing, how could I have ever trusted any of you ever again? You know the pisser is I could of been more understanding if you pulled that shit if this had happened right after my reformation at the Fall Formal! Even I didn't think I fucking deserved to be forgiven after what I tried to do! But no, after everything I tried to do to make up for it, after finally saying something and pulling you guys together when the sirens had you squabbling like fucking children, after I fucking helped clinch the win when it seemed like all hope was lost, all of you fucking STABBED ME IN THE BACK! Hell, I'm STILL angry about it! The only reason I haven't said so was because I felt bad for what happened to you and the others thanks to Chrysalis and I figured you didn't need me dumping any more on you guys when you were sincerely regretful and apologizing to me!"

At this point Sunset had to stop, needing to dial back how loud she was being as un-shed tears started to blur her vision. Rainbow Dash was totally floored, unsure of what to do for a moment until she tried to reach out to the other. Sunset however turned her back to Rainbow Dash, hugging herself and trying to focus on some spot on the wall in front of her.

"... if things had worked out differently Dash, maybe you would of had a chance. But things are what they are now. I've only just started letting you and the others back into my life and I'm trying to work past all of this because I do want to be friends again. But you and me together? No. That will never happen."

There was no need to turn around to see how hurt Rainbow Dash looked. Instead Sunset could hear it as a word was softly and weakly whimpered out, so contrary to the normally confident and sure athlete that if they weren't the only ones in the room, Sunset wouldn't of thought that it came from Rainbow Dash.

"I'm sorry..."

An unbearable silence fell on the room, so deafening that the knock that came from the door was like thunder. Sunset stepped forward and opened it, seeing that Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Applejack were on the other side.

"Where's Sparky?"

The girls glanced at each other before Rarity spoke up first.

"Princess Twilight decided to invite her back along to your place. She... thought it might be for the best."

"Mm."

Pushing past them without another word, Sunset headed to the elevator and got on quick before any of them could try to stop her. She pulled out her phone and texted Jackie before waiting to reach the bottom and head outside to wait by the parking lot. Jackie would be along a couple of minutes later, hopping out and putting two cups of ice cream on the hood of her car before approaching the red-head, instantly able to tell something was off.

"Sunshine?"

"... I talked to Rainbow Dash."

"Well, yeah, I kinda figured. How'd that go?"

"I basically unloaded on her how I felt and that she'd never have a chance with me now."

"Dude. Is she okay?"

"She didn't sound okay."

"And what... you just left her like that? Sunshine... I don't know if that was a good idea."

"I know... and I'll go back up there in a minute."

"Really? But then why are you-?"

Without another word, Sunset moved in and threw her arms around Jackie, holding her girlfriend close as the tears finally started to flow.




> Well Life Is (Too Short)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It took about a minute for the wave of emotion inside of Sunset to settle and she took a few more minutes to eat her ice cream and talk a bit with Jackie. The topics chosen were not of anything in particular. How their band would kill tomorrow, Jackie wondering if she should change the name of the band yet again since her magic form was more dragon than pony, and wondering what two Twilights and Spikes would be talking about right now. Jackie opted for 'magic nerd stuff' and Sunset... yeah, she couldn't deny that's probably what the Twilights would be talking about.

Now that she had composed herself and didn't look as if she had been crying, she headed back towards the hotel, tossing her empty cup in a nearby trashcan.

"Hey, how about I come with this time?"

Glancing over her shoulder as Jackie followed after her and tossed her cup into the same trashcan, Sunset seemed a bit hesitant.

"I don't know..."

"Look, I'll admit that thing with Dash is probably going to make things super awkward if I go up there. But I'm going to be bored as fuck waiting for you in the car waiting for this thing to wrap up who knows when."

"How sensitive of you."

Despite the snark from her girlfriend, Jackie just grinned and shrugged before picking up her pace so that she could walk in step with the other. 

"Hey, least I tell you what's up. But really Sunshine, you came down upset. I want to be there for you. Cause friends or not, if they make you start crying again I ain't gonna stand for that!"

As dorky as the attempted machismo was, a small part of Sunset couldn't help but be a little touched knowing Jackie was ready to jump in if something went bad for her. Granted this was often problematic since the guitarist tended not to think things through, but Sunset was just going to cut off her train of thought there so that the sentiment would still be endearing.

The elevator ride up was much quicker with her girlfriend but Sunset started dragging her feet and seemed to freeze in place for a moment as she just stared at the door. Behind which would be her friends who undoubtedly got at least most of the story about what just happened from a saddened Rainbow Dash.

"... fuck they're going to be mad at me."

"So?"

Feeling Jackie's hand slip into her's, the interlocking of their fingers helped bring some comfort as the guitarist's hand gave a light squeeze.

"Sunshine, being friends doesn't mean you always gotta' be happy and things are always going to be peaceful. Shit happens. Misunderstandings, hurt feelings, anger... but if you're real friends then you can work through it and get back to just doing stuff. If they can't be understanding and let you get this off your chest and they want to be butt hurt about it, then fuck 'em."

Taking a deep breath, Sunset raised her hand and knocked on the door, not having to wait too long until Pinkie Pie opened it, her already slightly deflated hair losing more bounce when she saw who it was.

"Hi guys..."

"Hi. Pinkie can we come in please?"

Stepping back, Jackie and Sunset entered the room and came upon quite the downer of a sight. Rainbow Dash was sitting on one of the two beds, back to the door with Fluttershy gently rubbing the athlete's back. Rarity and Applejack seemed somber as well, the fashionista fidgeting nervously on the other bed when she saw Sunset and the farmer just leaning against the wall, arms crossed as she watched the couple enter. Pinkie Pie would move past them and sat on the bed with Rarity, tugging lightly at her fingers and staring down at the floor.

That silence that had descended after she spoke to Rainbow Dash seemed to have made quite a nice little home for itself and was busy choosing paint swatches for it's breakfast nook as no one in the room uttered a word. It really seemed to be getting on Jackie's nerves a bit, the guitarist's gaze flitting from here to there as she waited for someone, anyone to get this conversation rolling.

"... okay, can we all just start with the fact you're all fucking this up right now?"

That caused all eyes in the room to turn to Jackie, most of the stares either confused or surprised, with the exception of Sunset who was shooting her girlfriend a deadpan stare.

"What? You all know I'm right. This is not normal. Well, or at least to me it isn't. Yeah there's delicate situations but you're acting like there's eggshells everywhere! I mean, how's that saying go? Break a few eggs to make scrambled eggs? I mean, when you take me, Tino and Poppy, we are upfront about shit! Well, most of the time depending on the situation, but still! Sunshine, I know you don't want to be mean or anything but they're big fucking girls! And they can either put on their big girl doc martins and deal with it or they can suck and be all 'woe is me' about it when it's not about them!"

Just when it seemed silence tried to regain control of it's new domain, a little levity helped keep them free thanks to Rarity.

"Ugh. Doc martins, really?"

The seamstress wrinkled her nose at the thought as Sunset looked over to her and raised a brow.

"Hey, I'm saving up for a pair myself."

"Oh... well, they are a celebrated icon of the um, grunge culture I believe it was called. They do tend to be quite fetching."

This made Applejack snicker softly, her head tilted down so that her stetson hid her eyes. There was a moment's hesitation before Fluttershy turned around on the bed, still sitting next to Rainbow Dash but facing Sunset and Jackie now, sitting on her knees as the nervous girl managed to bring about a question on everyone's mind.

"Does... does this mean um... that you still haven't forgiven us?"

Sunset seemed to give this some thought for a brief moment.

"... no. It's not that. I meant what I said after the Friendship Games, life is way too short to just hold onto a grudge and I wanted to put the Anon-A-Miss thing behind me."

However, Sunset crossed her arms, gaze hardening slightly as she looked between the five of them.

"That didn't mean, however, that I wasn't still angry. I mean, can you guys even understand how much it hurt when you abandoned me like that? It just... never felt as if you got that no matter how much you apologized to me. And I thought that I could just forget about it but when Dash brought up all that 'what ifs', it just boiled up fresh as if it had happened yesterday."

She had already said what she needed to Rainbow Dash, so her gaze shifted one by one, starting with Applejack and ending with Pinkie Pie as she spoke.

"Can you imagine how it felt? When someone who had offered you a chance to spend the holidays in a warm home surrounded by friends, snatching that away from you? I know what I did in the past was bad Applejack, but did you really think I'd be so spiteful and ungrateful as to throw that back into your face by spreading an embarrassing secret? And Fluttershy, I know I tortured you for years but I thought out of all of you, you'd be kind enough to give me the benefit of the doubt. And I guess I shouldn't of been too surprised, Rarity, that you'd be more concerned with damage control than to stand by my side! And Pinkie Pie, you calling me a secret stealer? That's a compliment when you compare it to being a fake friend!"

If she hadn't been holding Jackie's hand the entire time, then she really would have gone off on a tear. It was scary how much they could effect her, that much was clear. Which made it all the more gut wrenching for the five when they saw how much their friendship had truly meant to Sunset Shimmer. Tears slipped down Fluttershy's face, Rarity looked on the verge and Pinkie Pie had totally deflated. Seeing the five in various states of distraught made Sunset feel guilty for a moment but she knew it had to be done. If they ever wanted to be friends again then exorcising her demons like this was necessary.

With silence moved back in and crashing on the couch, Sunset struggled to find something to say, but instead it was Pinkie Pie who spoke up.

"I'm sorry... I really am. I'm really, really, really sorry... I, I don't know how many times I have to say it before you don't hate me any more but I mean it! I'm really super duper sorry!"

Before a round of apologies could be offered, Sunset raised her hand to cut them off short.

"I don't hate you guys. Maybe I did for a little while after I left to get away from all of that, but I don't anymore. But I've had plenty of time to think about this and I want to give you guys another chance. I'm trusting you guys to not fuck up this time, alright?"

"Yeah. Ah think we gotcha'. Second time 'round we're gonna be better friends."

As nice as it was to hear the determination in Applejack's voice, Rarity could not help but voice a concern.

"Things... really will not be the same anymore, will they?"

"No... but hopefully they'll be a lot better this time around."

The soft smile from Sunset seemed to be encouraging for them, a bit of hope seeming to be regained in all except for Rainbow Dash, who had kept her back to Sunset the entire time. 

"Dash. I know it hurts but come on. It's not the end of the world."

Then Sunset's smile turned a bit mischievous.

"If you need a pick me up I'm sure Adagio wouldn't mind coming over..."

Sunset's smile broadened seeing Rainbow Dash's back stiffen, she swore she could see the athlete's ears burning a bit. When she got a good look at Rainbow Dash's face, Fluttershy's soft giggle set off the others one by one as soft, gentle chuckles and titters, which only made Dash groan softly and hide her face in her hands. It was small, but that levity was a jump start that would allow all of their spirits the start to rise. 





After that, it was best decided that it had been a long night so Jackie and Sunset parted ways. As they drove through the streets on the way home, Sunset felt tired. But in a good way. It was almost as if a large weight had been taken off of her shoulders and she felt able to truly relax for the first time in a long time.

Jackie for her part was happy and felt even happier every time she glanced over at her girlfriend and saw that content smile on her face and that happy look in her eye. Things had finally been settled, her Sunshine was happy and all was right with the world. 

Well, at least they were until they got home and found both sets of Twilights and Spikes on the bed. Apparently Equestria Spike (who Jackie was now going to refer to as D. Spike cause you know, he was actually supposed to be a dragon) was trying to teach regular talking dog Spike (who she would simply call Spike) more words and broaden his education. 

Sparky was completely focused on Twilight, enraptured as the princess of harmony was clearly in the middle of explaining some sort of magical theory that had theories and maths and oh god Jackie could already feel her eyes starting to roll into the back of her head! Thankfully Sunset had the idea to cough loudly and gain their attention. While Sparky gave a slightly nervous smile, Twilight's smile was as bright as the sun after taking one look at Sunset.

"Feeling better?"

"Yeah. Much better. Hey Twilight, is it alright if you and Spike let me have the room? I need to talk to Sparky here. You too Jackie."

While surprised and a bit confused, Twilight nodded before collecting D. Spike and exiting, Jackie leaving as well after giving a groan and a whine about being locked out of her room again. Once the door was shut, Sunset moved over to the bed and sat down before removing her boots, seeming oblivious to Sparky's current state of worrying to the point of actually starting to break out into a sweat. Once Sunset had made herself more comfortable, she swung her legs up onto the mattress and leaned back with a soft sigh as she placed her hands on her stomach.

"Much better. How've you been liking Los Pegasus so far?"

"U-Um, it's nice. I've never been to the west coast before, it's really um... different. Not in a bad way! I mean, it all looks nice where you live!"

"Yeah, it kinda took a little getting used to for me when I first got here, but it definitely grows on you. Sort of like a fungus."

Chuckling at her own joke and glancing over, she could see that Sparky was starting to relax some. 

"... you know, I never got around to apologizing to you."

"... wait, WHAT?"

"Yeah, for when I confronted you at the Friendship Games after the plants thing. I could have handled that better instead of scaring you like I did. Probably could of saved a lot of trouble if I explained things better instead of just demanded you hand your stuff over."

"That's... that's too... Sunset, you can't mean that! I mean, there's nice and then there's being way too nice!"

"I know, my girlfriend must be rubbing off on me."

"B-But-! But my actions lead to Chrysalis getting that magic! She hurt our friends and she almost killed you and everything would of been-would of been-! I mean, I don't know what she would of done afterwards but it was all my fault and I'm SO SORRY!"

Just when it seemed like the human Twilight was ready to hyperventilate as she thought over every single horrible scenario in her head, Sunset sat up and placed her hands on the girl's shoulders, slowly getting her to calm down.

"Twilight. You fucked up. Just like how I fucked up on how I handled the situation when dealing with you. It happens. You didn't intend for Chrysalis to get power or to turn into a raging she-demon yourself. What you did, you did because you saw good people suffering."

"B-But... but if I'd known why Chrysalis was there and what happened with Anon-A-Miss-!"

"You still would have helped."

The way Sunset said that in a tone that was so matter of fact quieted the bespectacled girl as she stared, confused and waiting for Sunset to explain.

"You and the Equestrian Twilight might be different in a lot of ways but there's still key similarities. And the one thing I know for sure is that when good people are suffering you can't just stand idly by, you want to help. Your intentions were good, the execution just missed the mark."

Such a compliment made Sparky blush slightly, averting her gaze but not feeling completely better just yet.

"I'm sorry..."

"Hey, you're not the one who blew open a hole in my chest. Plus I got better. So it's fine."

After a few moments, Sparky raised her head, giving a half-hearted smile and a nod. Not completely over the guilt but Sunset knew it was a start. 

"By the by, you were talking about magic with Princess Twilight, right? It's been awhile since I studied Equestrian magic but it sounded like the Trotscovi Conversion of Magic theory, am I right?"

"Oh! Um, yes. We were discussing what we saw yesterday, with Jackie's and Rainbow's slightly altered 'Pony Mode' forms as she tells me you and the others call it. We were trying to figure out an explanation as to why they were different from before when it seemed to be the usual light magic that caused it instead of dark or any other type of magic. So far we have two of the best possible hypotheses. One being that due to the root magic being Equestrian magic and by possibly having a slow conversion process as it adapts to this world, it only gave a sort of 'baseline' look when you or the others powered up, assigning the typical traits of Equestrians such as the ears, pony tails, and wings if it feels the subject would be close in design to pegasi in Equestria. Yet as it adapts and grows, there will be those that will not have a 'baseline look' and their true Equestrian selves will emerge. Meaning that while it is confirmed that Rainbow Dash in Equestria is indeed a Pegasus, the Jackie of Equestria may in fact be a dragon."

This caused Sunset to blink, her silence making the human Twilight adjust her glasses nervously until the red-head spoke up.

"So what you're saying is, because it was Equestrian magic used by ponies, the reason Jackie started off with a 'Pony Mode' was because it was too weak and inflexible to register any other sort of species from my world and instead stuck her with the pony equivalent until it became more flexible and became stronger."

"Basically. We figure things like tattoos and armor were a sort of flourish added based on the person's subconscious. However this also leads to our second hypothesis. We think as the magic grows and evolves, adapting to being used by humans, perhaps the change is totally subconscious on Jackie or Rainbow Dash's part. Jackie's transformation being more dragon-like could have nothing to do with Equestria, her Equestrian form may in fact be a pegasus as first thought by her earlier transformations. Yet as Equestrian magic becomes more "human magic", the form Jackie took on last night could simply be because she equates dragons to power but still wants to be herself, with a bit of 90s fashion in terms of tattoo thrown in. Twilight has given this credit since, as far as we know, you are not an Alicorn yet your form at the Friendship Games had a horn and wings. It simply could of been the magic creating a form that in your subconscious was very powerful."

As Sunset mulled it over, both ideas had strengths and weaknesses to the argument and neither could be proven just yet. Still, not a bad place to start when trying to figure out what was going on magic-wise in this world.

"... have you thought about where you're going to go to college after Crystal Prep?"

The question seemed to come completely out of left field for Sparky, the girl needing to take a moment to process the question.

"Um. Well, I know with my grades I could get into just about anywhere and I have been considering many options. Why?"

"Well... if you still want to study magic and you're not committed to any one place, how do you feel about coming here to Los Pegasus? All of my studies when I go to college will be geared to studying magic as well and how it's affecting this world. On your own you've done an amazing amount of research studying magic, you even made a device that finds and collects it. I think between the both of us we could figure out what's going on. But if you don't want to come to Los Pegasus, at the very least I'd still like to work with you no matter where you go. Even if it's just comparing notes and bouncing ideas off of each other. What do you say?"

To have the girl she had effectively screwed over in her pursuit of knowledge smile and offer a partnership like this... Sparky just didn't know what to say! However, a broad, genuine smile came over her face and an excited twinkle in her eye as she eagerly nodded her head. 

"Yes! Yes yes yes yes yes! I mean, um, I don't know about Los Pegasus, I'll have to research the colleges here to see if any suit my needs, but I'd love to work with you on this!"

The excitement appeared to be too much as the human soon pounced and gave Sunset a big hug! The red-head giggled softly and pat the top of Twilight's head, a soft smile on her face. 

Things were definitely looking up.




> So Love The One You Got (AKA The Adagio Chapter)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Now Bobby was just a simple man with simple dreams. He looked forward to meeting up with Principal Cinch again and taking her out for a nice night together. He wanted to graduate from college so that he could balance people's finances to make sure they could live well within their means if they so chose to follow his advice. Maybe he would go to a nude beach one day just to see what the experience was like.

However, as the college student slumbered in the reclining chair, having continued to selflessly give up his couch for the two Twilights to share, he was unaware that three dastardly beings to enter the apartment.

The sound of people awake around him was slowly rousing Bobby out of his sleep, the man yawning as he turned over and nuzzled his face against the soft, warm, slightly strange fabric of the recliner. But something was off...

Sure the recliner was warm, but it wasn't really soft... neither was his pillow... and as a matter of fact, this didn't feel like the fabric of the recliner or his pillow at all! So what was he snuggling his face against?

After cracking his eyes open, he saw... orange? Wait, there was some fabric in front of his face, black and lacy... covering some sort of-

...

Slowly he tilted his face up and gazed into the face of pure, mischievous evil. Also known as Adagio Dazzle's cocky, alluring, sexy smirking face.

"Well, and good morning to you too, Mr. Bookkeeper."

"GAH!"

Bobby jumped out of the chair so fast that he toppled over the other side and fell flat on his back, one leg draped over the arm and his blanket strewn about his shirtless form. The fluffy siren let out a pleased cackle before pulling her shirt back on, Sonata giggling like mad and Aria simply rolling her eyes. Of course the commotion also awoke the two Twilights and Spikes from their slumber on the couch, Princess Twilight startled by the unexpected guests while Sparky's reaction was a bit delayed since she had to momentarily grope for her glasses on the coffee table.

Before long Sunset and Jackie emerged from their bedroom, the former clad in only a bra and a pair of red cotton shorts and the latter in a t-shirt and ladies boxer briefs. Yet any weariness that might still be clinging to Jackie was instantly chased off as her eyes widened and she pointed to the three.

"EVIL! How the fuck did evil get into our apartment?!? HOW DID YOU FIND OUT WHERE WE LIVE?!"

"Aw, you're not happy to see us?" 

A chill went down Jackie's spine as Adagio eyed her predatorily while sliding into the recliner, claiming it as her temporary new throne.

"It was easy enough to sneak a peek into your wallet the night you stayed at our place. I must say that your driver's license photo is adorable how you were wearing those knock off aviator ray bans like that."

"Hey, I looked cool! And that still doesn't explain how you got in!"

This question would be answered by Aria, raising a hand to get the guitarist's attention.

"Duh, easy enough to pick the lock. Not to mention that chain you got is flimsy as fuck, even the Princess over there could probably kick down the door."

"Dammit, you owe us for a new security chain! Now get the fuck out!"

As valiant an effort as her girlfriend was putting forth to seem intimidating, Sunset could plainly see bravado wouldn't even work on human Twilight, much less the three sirens. Sonata had already bounced off to the kitchen to get breakfast, Aria had muscled out a space for herself in between the two Twilights and flipped the TV on, and Adagio was content to survey it all from the recliner. Being totally ignored squashed Jackie's bluster, her shoulders sagging as a frustrated sigh escaped her, with only her girlfriend to sympathetically pat her on the back.





"Okay, so run it by me again why you are actively trying to piss off the people we're trying to make peace with?"

After breakfast at Vibrato and Shimmer's, the three sirens all piled in to the pre-owned, older year audi model car (Aria was still bitter that when they first moved to Los Pegasus, they'd had to exchange the nice Ferrari they had, using half to pay the rent and the other half to buy this thing), and were off to the beach for another day of fun. Well, fun in the sense Sonata would goof around more with Pinkie Pie and that Discord guy, Aria would want to mainly soak up the sun and maybe challenge some of the jocks lifting weights in that one area of the beach, and Adagio would just do what she always did. Which mainly entailed sunbathing in between bouts of flirting, usually with Jackie.

"It's all in good fun."

"Yeahhhh, until Shimmer finally gets sick of your shit and punches you in the throat."

"Which is why I've decided to... switch up tactics, shall we say."

"Okay?"

"If I focus too much of my attention on Jackie, then it won't be special anymore. I dare say she may even get bored. So I've decided to give Shimmer's cute pet guitarist a break while I have my fun with more fruitful targets."

"... you're going to start fucking with the ones from CHS aren't you?"

"Oh Aria, you can read me like a book, can't you?"

Despite being the driver, Aria still face palmed pretty hard and could already tell this day was just going to be chock full of Adagio's special brand of fun.

And sure enough, fate had decided to deliver Adagio a prime target in the form of Pinkie Pie. 

Who brought cupcakes.

That she was messily frosting right this second because she claimed frosting was best enjoyed fresh out of the tube. 

Yeahhhhh, Aria was going to go see what the muscle heads down the beach were doing while Adagio slunk over like a big cat ready to pounce upon unsuspecting prey.

"Mm, those look very tasty Pinkie Pie."

"Thanks! It wasn't easy making 'em! First I had to get the ingredients, then I had to convince the hotel kitchen staff to let me bake, and-"

However, during her ramble, some frosting that had been on Pinkie Pie's fingers transferred to her cheek as she rubbed an itchy spot that had been there. Adagio almost felt bad at how too easy this was.

Almost. But not quite.

She grasped Pinkie Pie's chin and leaned in, the pink haired baker confused up until Adagio slowly and sexily licked up the frosting that was on her cheek. Despite being a bit air headed at times, even Pinkie Pie's heart rate spiked, her skin turning a deeper shade of pink as the Pinkie Pie's in her head all ground to a halt at their tasks of desk jobs and paperwork and party testing research.

"Uhhhhh-?"

"Mm, very tasty indeed..."

The second punch came when Adagio took some frosting onto her finger and licked it off, her eyes never breaking their gaze from Pinkie as things became... suggestive.

Steam literally came out of Pinkie Pie's ears as Adagio smirked and walked away, deciding to take in a bit of sunbathing and plot out who would be her next target.

Things would settle down for a bit and everyone was enjoying themselves, Celestia had joined Discord in making sand castles, Pinkie Pie, Sonata, Applejack and Rainbow Dash were playing beach volley ball, and others were either playing in the water or lying on the beach and enjoying the day. Human Twilight, for example, was sitting under an umbrella that someone had brought and was reading a book. When suddenly she felt two big, soft things pressing against her back and soon saw a pair of orange toned arms slide over her shoulder.

"Hm, what are you reading?"

"GERP!"

"An interesting title for a book."

Poor Sparky, having had little to no interaction with Adagio before, could feel her heart rate already sky rocketing. 

"U-Um, no! It's um! M-Michio Kiso's book, Th-The Mind of the Future!"

"Really? The book where he explores transhumanism as it pertains to telepathy, telekinesis, consciousness and artificial intelligence?"

"Y-Yes-wait, you know who he is and you've read his work?"

"Mm, I may have perused some of his books, the man has interesting views on the future of humanity."

The slight shock and small amount of respect Sparky was starting to feel for the siren was instantly swept aside as she felt Adagio's breath against her ear, causing her heart rate to spike up to crazy levels once more as her whole face became red.

"I'm hurt. Didn't you think I was more than just a pretty face?"

"I-I-I-I-! U-UM!"

And then Adagio nibbled on her ear, causing a sort of strangled, gibberish to leave the human before she fell over onto her side like a fainting goat. 

"... I feel as though we should be doing something." 

Commented Sunset, watching from the water as Adagio left the poor human Twilight alone and went back to sun bathing. Jackie, who had just resurfaced and was pushing her wet bangs out of her eyes, shook her head vehemently.

"Hell no! With the way she was concentrating on me all the days before, everyone else can deal with her! They'll be fine."

"Yeah but-"

"It's fine!"

"You say that but-"

"It's fine! Sunshine, it's going to be totally fine! Besides, aren't you happy she's not hitting on me and getting on your nerves?"

"... I suppose."

"See? It's all good!"





About an hour later, Rainbow Dash and Rarity had to escort poor Fluttershy over to one of the lawn chairs, her face totally red and the poor animal caretaker a stuttering mess. 

"What? All I asked was if she wanted to go for a swim together."

"Without swimsuits?!"

"What? I barely had the clasp of my top undone."

At this Princess Twilight Sparkle face palmed so hard that people nearby could hear it. With an exasperated sigh, she looked around before spotting Jackie and Sunset, lying together on a pair of beach towels and quickly approached them.

"You two have to help me reign Adagio in, this... this is getting out of hand!"

"Uh, what exactly do you expect us to do about it Twilight?"

"Well, Jackie... would it be unreasonable to um, let her go back to teasing you?"

"FUCK NO!"

"Please???"

"I am NOT going to be the tribute, Princess. For the first time I'm actually able to enjoy a day with my girlfriend without Adagio teasing me and pissing Sunset off. Why can't you guys just suck it up and deal with it for a day?"

"Because Adagio's already through all of the easy targets and who knows what she'll do next?!"

At that, Sunset gave the Princess of Harmony a look that said 'wow, really Twilight?' to which Twilight smiled sheepishly and rubbed the back of her head. She glanced off to the side and saw that Adagio had decided to go for a swim anyway and, thankfully, appeared to have her swimsuit on.

"Look Twilight, I'm sure this is a bit stressful but I agree with Jackie. It's just one day of dealing with Adagio, everyone will be fine."

With that said, Sunset returned to lying down with Jackie and soaking up the sun, leaving a worried Princess Twilight to reluctantly leave them in peace and go over to help with Fluttershy's recovery.



Celestia meanwhile, had been keeping watch and saw Twilight heading over to Fluttershy, appearing disheartened. Apparently the talk she had with Jackie and Sunset did not go well.

"Celly? Celly! You need to put on the finishing touches and take a picture quickly! Before the tide comes in!"

Her gaze turned back to Discord, who had been buried up to his neck, random seaweed placed over his scalp like a wig, and she had shaped the sand around him to make it look like he had the body of a mermaid, posed with one hand on her hip and one behind her head. They'd even managed to find two starfish to cover his sandy bosom and some seashells for earrings. 

"Right, sorry..."

"Oh Celly, no longer a principal but still looking out for your young wards, hm?"

"I suppose you could say that."

Smiling softly, she used a plastic knife to finish carving out details like the scales on the mermaid tail and such before picking Discord's phone up from the sand to take a picture.

"Certainly nothing wrong with that my dear! Ah! Why not help them out? It'll be just like old times I'm sure!"

"Because that is no longer my job, Discord. And not to mention it hardly seems appropriate for someone of my age to meddle when the teasing is of such a... deviant nature."

"My dear, listen to your dear friend Disco, I-"

"Disco?"

"Trying out nicknames. But yes, listen to your dear friend Cord, I think that you playing a small prank would do no harm! And you certainly wouldn't have to be as lascivious as fluffy over there! Cut loose, have fun! We're on vacation!"

Giving the man's words some consideration, she supposed that despite the fact that a seagull had landed on his head while he spoke, Discord's advice tended to have at least some supporting evidence that he may have been right. She'd have to think further about this. Right after she shooed away the seagull and dug him up.





"Ugh, today had ta' be the longest day a mah life." 

Applejack was fully dressed, having washed off the sand and salt water at one of the on beach showering stations, wanting to get clean before it was time to watch the next part of the Beach Bands Battle contest. Rainbow Dash was with her as well, both having finished first out of their group.

"Tell me about it. Now I know how Jackie feels after having to deal with Adagio all day."

"Yeah. How ya' feelin'?"

"Fine. Wish you guys would stop asking me that."

"Well..."

"Yeah. Look, I'll get over it AJ, it just takes time."

The silence had not even unpacked it's bags before there came a surprised shriek from one of the shower tents. Recognizing Rarity's girlish scream anywhere, both Applejack and Rainbow Dash charged over, the blonde farmer pushing aside one of the tent flaps... to find a furiously blushing Rarity, trying to cover herself as best as she could with her towel while Adagio, wearing a towel that just barely covered everything, greeted them with a smirk.

"WHAT IN TARNATION ARE YA' DOIN' IN THERE!?"

"Oh? I hadn't realized this tent was occupied, silly me."

"Adagio, Ah swear ta' god Ah'll-!"

"Actually, yours and Dash's timing is perfect. I seem to need a little help with my towel."

Raising her hands and placing them behind her head, striking a pose, the towel slid off to the ground. Seeing the siren in nothing but her glorious birthday suit and the provocative pose struck instantly lit up Rainbow Dash's and Applejack's face, with Rarity's just becoming even redder. Instantly the farmer shut the tent flap, her and the athlete retreating as Rarity dressed in record time before hurrying after them. Adagio could not help but laugh out loud before washing herself off and dressing. 

Yet as she stepped out of the tent, she found herself face to face with the still bikini clad Celestia. Of course the siren had noticed the woman, it was hard not to with how she looked in that bikini. But she still kept her cool, smiling pleasantly to the other.

"Ah, pardon me Celestia, I've just finished up."

"Good to hear, I really do need to wash up."

The woman's arms had crossed just under her generous breasts, the two mounds seeming to be pushed out just a bit more, enough that it made it all the more harder for Adagio to keep her eyes from darting down to look. 

"Well, don't let me stop you."

"Thank you. Although I wish I had someone to help me out. It's always hard getting my back."

As she spoke, Celestia had moved past the siren, giving Adagio a nice view as Celestia leaned over just enough while removing her sandals. 

"Mm, I bet. Perhaps I could lend you a hand?"

Immediately Celestia stood straight up, looking over to Adagio with some surprise and a bit of exasperation. 

"Really now, that hardly seems appropriate!"

With her trademark, confident and sultry smirk in place, Adagio took a step closer to the older woman and was more than eager to play with her a bit. 

"Oh? I hardly see a problem. I'm just trying to take a page from the others and trying to be friendly and helpful. Of course, I could do so much more."

The hesitation was clear on Celestia's face, but there was something there, that hint of temptation that let Adagio know she had her claws in.

"I still don't feel it's appropriate. Not to mention it feels like you're simply toying with me. A beautiful young woman such as yourself wouldn't be interested in a woman of my age."

The compliment from such a pretty woman did please Adagio, the siren actually feeling a bit flustered but continuing her game.

"The opposite could not be more true. You're quite an attractive woman Celestia."

"... oh?"

"Mm-hm..."

Stepping forward, close enough that she could push herself up onto tip toes, so close that her lips could brush against Celestia's ear.

"Very beautiful. Like a goddess."

After a moment, a playful smirk came to Celestia's face as she took her turn to whisper into Adagio's ear.

"A goddess, hm? Well, I am truly flattered that such an attractive young woman would pay me tribute."

Okay, a little bit of a change up, nothing she couldn't handle...

"With such flattery you have been giving me, I suppose I could say you are worthy of, shall we say, properly worshipping me."

"Worthy?"

The change up was baffling Adagio enough that she was actually too flustered to feel properly outraged that Celestia was being so prideful about this. Although, from the way she smiled like that, so confident and seductive, yet playful at the same time, from those big breasts, to those curves, maybe even Adagio could concede that Celestia had a right to an ego trip.

Yet as Celestia pulled back and looked into her eyes, Adagio found herself entranced, a strong blush coming to her face as the woman's head leaned in, their lips so close it would take just the slightest movement on either of their accounts to connect. Just as Adagio was ready to make contact, a devious smile came to Celestia's face as she stepped back.

"I could say you are worthy. If you were my type."

With that the tent flaps closed, leaving a stunned Adagio to try and recover from being shut down. The process was sped up when she heard loud laughter coming from behind one of the sand dunes and soon, Discord, Jackie's and Sunset's heads popped up. Discord and Jackie were laughing so hard they were actually choking and even Sunset couldn't bite back her laughter. Shock immediately turned to outrage as Adagio turned and quickly stalked off, trying to preserve some of her dignity.

Jackie was hanging off of Sunset's shoulders, wiping the tears from her eyes as her laughter finally died down long enough for her to speak.

"Best. Day. EVER Sunshine!"





> Cause Lovin', Is What We Got
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	
It had happened. The Pony Breakers had won the Beach Bands Battle contest! They had given it their all, playing their hearts out and they had been rewarded! Cash money prizes, they had been introduced to Sapphire Shores and the bassist from Sublime! They even had a connection from Coloratura, who had been more inclined to share contact information now that the friends of her Applejack had pulled their shit together and proved they didn't suck! Needless to say this meant celebrating! Everyone was invited, even the Dazzlings, Celestia and Discord as they headed to the best dive bar with the cheapest, tastiest booze where they didn't ask for I.D. to check if everyone was of the legal drinking age! 

Granted they couldn't get away with too much drinking since Celestia designated herself as the 'responsible adult' but she didn't impede on their fun. Hell, after a couple of jaeger shots with Discord, she went head to head with the head douchebag of the bar in a game of five finger filet, not missing a beat or drawing blood while the douchebag was bleeding from all five fingers. While she said she found the game on the distasteful side, there was a bit of cockiness to the smile on her face as she collected her winnings from the man. Everyone had their drink of choice, some being responsible and only getting buzzed, while others went ahead and got plastered. After enough tequila shots, Aria was arm wrestling other guys in the bar (and winning), Discord was showing off his sister's Facehoof page that had a picture of her daughter Flufflepuff and her new adopted daughter the now ten year old Chrysalis, the former giving the latter a great big hug while Chrysalis tried to pretend that it annoyed her. And having only split one vodka and red bull drink between them, Sonata and Pinkie were bouncing off the walls.

For Jackie it all started to blur after enough beers. The last thing she remembered was making it home before grabbing a pillow and blanket before heading to the bathroom for some reason.

When she woke up, she felt about as good as an old, wrung out sponge. Her head was throbbing some and her mouth felt dry and rough like sand paper. Thankfully it was dark inside the bathroom when she opened her eyes, her bleary vision not picking up much at the moment. She could feel a weight on her though, and something was tickling her nose. Reaching up, she groggily felt the fuzzy thing and found it was... hair? Her hand slipped down lower and felt something smooth... lower... lower... what was she grabbing that felt so squishy? And why did it seem familiar? 

"Ooo, feeling a bit frisky this morning, Vibrato?"

That oh so familiar voice made the guitarist freeze before immediately retracting her hand, the pounding in her head intensifying as her heart rate sped up. The thing on top of her moved to sit up and Jackie's eyes had finally adjusted enough in the darkness to see a familiar fluffy siren. Naked. She woke up after a night of drinking and Adagio was naked on top of her.

".... AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"





Sunset awoke with a start after a loud 'bang' came from the hallway, the red head jolted awake before immediately shutting her eyes, hissing and holding her head. While not as drunk as her girlfriend, she'd definitely had one cocktail too many. Speaking of which. 

"Mornin' Jackie." 

The red head yawned softly, her hand sliding up bare skin on the back of the woman against her, slipping past the bra line into the long, silky hair of...

.... long hair?

Teal eyes immediately snapped open and looked down to see the human Twilight Sparkle sleeping against her, the blanket down to their waists so that she could see they were both just in their underwear. The movements from the now panicking Sunset made Sparky stir from her slumber, blinking as she stared at Sunset for a moment before rolling over to get her glasses from the nightstand.

"Oh, good morning Sunset."

With a yawn she tried to lie back down. Then her eyes snapped to wide open before she yelped and jumped back, falling out of the bed and taking the blanket with her. The smart girl's entire face and neck were red and she was stuttering very badly.

"W-W-WH-WHA-HAAAAA??!"

The shouting was certainly not helping Sunset's hang over, she sat up and started rubbing her tumbles as she tried to remember what happened last night. Right, they'd had a bit too much to drink, even princess Twilight and Bobby. So Adagio had offered to drive them home and had helped them up to their apartment last night.

.....

"ADAGIOOOOOOOOOO!!!"





While this was an unfamiliar feeling to her, princess Twilight was not naive. She had read plenty of books on the effects of inebriation and cures after having enjoyed herself at the many Apple family get togethers (hard cider served after dark) and Pinkie Pie's harder parties when it was just adults. So yes, she knew how to deal with a hang over when she woke up. That didn't make it any easier to deal with though, especially when there were so many loud noises.

A glance towards the bedroom showed a fully clothed Jackie, looking rather unconscious and most likely having knocked herself out by running into the wall. Adagio had just stepped out, dressing herself as Sunset stormed out in just her underwear and started shouting at the smirking siren. 

"Too much yelling." 

Trying her best to block it out, Twilight set about making coffee and assembling glasses of water. She even started on some breakfast, glancing over to see Bobby on the couch, pressing the pillow so hard against his head she worried he might be suffocating. Shaking her head, she prayed for the bread to toast faster as she used the last of the eggs and simply scrambled them. Sure she wasn't no ace cook but at this point a little crunch of egg shell probably wouldn't be noticed. 

Although while everything cooked, she took the opportunity to slip past the group in the hallway into the bedroom, greeting her flustered human counterpart with a 'good morning' before finding Sunset's cell phone and returning to the kitchen. Last night had been crazy and while she had the time, she wanted to check on everyone to make sure they were safe.





A chime came from the nightstand next to a large, queen size bed in a sizable penthouse. A hand reached over, feeling around for the cell phone before fingers finally made contact. Grasping it and pulling it over, the call was answered as a drowsy voice with a southern drawl answered.

"Hullo?"

The blonde yawned softly as she listened to princess Twilight on the other end, wanting to rub her eyes but her other arm was a little trapped under the form beneath her. 

"Yeah... yeah Twi', me n' Rara got to her place safe. Uh-huh. Yeah, you too. Later."

Hanging up and tossing her cell phone back onto the nightstand, Applejack glanced back to Rara and found the pop star was awake, smiling sleepily up to her before kissing the cowgirl on the lips. 

"Mornin' Rara, Ah wake you?"

"Mm, it's fine Applejack, I was waking up anyway." 

Unfortunately, a call coming in on Rara's cell phone prevented them from further cuddles, the pop star giving a soft sigh before she rolled out of bed, pulled on a robe and headed over to her purse to answer her phone. While she did that, Applejack got out of bed as well, pulling on her jeans and just pulling on her under shirt when Rara's phone call ended.

"I'm afraid I'll have to end my vacation early. I need to fly out to Manehattan to talk to my producer about my next album and re-shoot for a music video."

"Can't put that off, huh?"

"I'm afraid not. I'm sorry Applejack."

The blonde moved over and wrapped her arms around Coloratura, the dark haired young woman smiling in turn and leaning into it.

"Hey, ya' gotta' do what ya' gotta' do, right? 'Sides, whene'er ya' get the chance, ya' can stop on by the farm ta' visit, right?"

"Right. And if you ever have the time, perhaps I could fly you out my home in Manehattan?"

"Fer sure, sugar."





Meanwhile in a different part of Los Pegasus in a nice apartment that was big enough for three, princess Twilight's considerate action of checking on her friends was less than appreciated. Shown in action by Aria chucking Rainbow Dash's cell phone against the wall after she had crawled her way over to the couch the prismatic haired athlete had been lying on.

"God dammit Aria!"

Rainbow Dash hissed softly, lying back down on the couch as she rubbed her forehead while the short haired siren pushed herself up onto her feet and lurched over to the kitchen. 

"Not my fault your god damn phone has a shitty ass ring tone that was turned up to full fucking volume!"

Sticking out her tongue, Rainbow Dash simply lied on the couch up until she smelled coffee being brewed and heard the tantalizing sizzle of a frying pan.

"... bacon?"

"And sausage. How you like your eggs?"

"Sunny side up with a good runny yoke."

"Good choice."

Moving over to the counter, Rainbow Dash sat on a stool as she watched the other make up a big mess of food.

"... so the others come here too?"

"Yeah. Sonata passed out in her room. Let Fluttershy and Sandy pass out in mine the second we got home. Pinkie and Tino were getting frisky so I let them go at it in Adagio's room since she's not here."

Both shared a smirk at the last part.

"Cool. Guess you sirens aren't so bad when you're not magicked up and trying to take over."

"Suppose that's a compliment. And you can hold yourself pretty good with alcohol, though you got pretty mopey last night."

At that Rainbow Dash frowned softly and averted her gaze to the counter, tapping her finger against it while Aria went about cooking breakfast.

"... it ain't gonna be bad forever you know. Trust me."

Seeing the questioning look from the athlete, Aria didn't seem wanting to go further into it but figured it wasn't a big deal and there was no harm.

"Been on this planet for a long time with my sisters. Met a lot of people. Last guy was named Sid when me and my sisters were hanging around Trottingham, liked the guy, had a flair for punk music even if he couldn't play for shit initially."

"Oh yeah? What happened?"

"Unstable drug addict that hooked up with some chick. Died a couple years later after he stabbed her. So yeah, bummed things didn't work out, but pretty happy I didn't hang around for all that."

"... yeahhhhhh, sounds like you got the better end of that deal."





When calling Rainbow Dash's phone had turned out to be a bust, Twilight had gone ahead and called Pinkie Pie's phone. And then Fluttershy's since the party girl wasn't picking up either. When the shy girl had answered and confirmed they were all safe at the Dazzling's apartment, Twilight was surprised to see Celestia's number in Sunset's phone but decided there was no harm in calling.

On that end, despite a bit of a slight roughness in Celestia's voice, things seemed to be fine. Although Discord suddenly called out for a hotel breakfast food fight just as Sunset had kicked Adagio out the door.

"And stay out!"

Thankfully the red head avoided slamming the door to spare all those that were still horribly hung over. Sparky had helped Jackie sit up, managing to rouse the guitarist back to consciousness while Bobby stayed huddled on the couch. Sunset's ire was dying down as she moved over to her girlfriend, wincing softly when she saw the drying blood around Jackie's nose. 

"I'll take it from here, Sparky."

Helping her girlfriend to her feet, she got Jackie into the bathroom and had her take a seat on the toilet while she got out a wash cloth.

"Fucking hell... I swear I didn't do anything with her."

"I know, while you were knocked out I confronted Adagio and she admitted to her little pranks."

After running the wash cloth under some water, she began to gently wipe away the blood on Jackie's face. Both were quiet as Sunset went about this task, then proceeded to get some tissue from the box and tear it in half.

"... gotta' say, I don't think there'll ever be a dull moment with you, Sunshine."

Smiling softly, the red head wadded up the two pieces of tissue before sticking them up Jackie's nose before kissing her on the forehead.

"All things considered? You can count on it."

They both shared a small chuckle before hearing Twilight call out that breakfast was ready. Jackie pushed herself up onto her feet with a small groan before reaching out and taking Sunset's hand. Their fingers interlocking as they left the bathroom to join their friends.





Meanwhile, back in Canterlot, someone who had been searching for Chrysalis ever since her mysterious disappearance after the Friendship Games had just stumbled upon Discord's sister's Facehoof account. The picture of what looked to be Chryaslis as a young girl was shocking to say the least, but there was also intrigue.

The man sat back in his seat, stroking his white beard as all the rumors and whispers of the strange events at Canterlot High School resurfaced in his mind. 

"Interesting...."