> Ever Glowing Sunlight
>  by RS-Belle14
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> We've come a long way
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset Shimmer snuck around the mostly-empty hallways of Canterlot High, trying her best to avoid any of the faculty that might be looking for her at the moment, ready to take her where she technically needed to be. Sunset very much understood the responsibilities she was obligated to do that day, but she thought all of that could wait for just a bit longer. It was not because Sunset did not want or care for her responsibilities; quite the contrary, she absolutely cherished them and viewed them as a very great honor, but at that particular moment, she just felt that she needed to be somewhere else: with her girlfriend.

Sunset crept around toward the music area of Canterlot High, quietly sneaking her way toward the entrance of one of the empty band rooms. This particular room was one she had become quite acquainted with during her years in Canterlot High; her band, The Rainbooms, had often used this room for their on-campus practice sessions, and Sunset thought it would be the perfect place for a little incognito meeting. After making sure no one else was in the hallway with her, Sunset quietly opened the door and slowly crept into the band room. 

"Twilight?" Sunset lightly called out in the dimly lit room. "Twilight, are you in here?"

"Sunset!" Princess Twilight Sparkle hopped from beside the doorway and wrapped her arms Sunset.

"Twilight!" Sunset quickly flipped on the light switch and hugged back. "Oh, thank goodness! I was afraid you wouldn't make it."

Twilight snuggled her head on Sunset's shoulder. "Nonsense. How could I ever miss this? I promised I would be here, so here I am."

"Aw. Thanks. I'm so glad you're here."

Sunset and Twilight closed their eyes and stood in each other's embrace for awhile, appreciating their warm, little reunion.

It had been some time since they had last been together. The last time they had seen each other was when Sunset had surprised Twilight with an unexpected, after-prom visit in Equestria. They had spent one extra day together, just making time to relax and appreciate each other's presence. It wasn't much, but it would be the last time they would have together until a certain special day, and that day had finally arrived.

Twilight was gently brushing her hand through Sunset's hair when she finally broke the silence.

"I just..." Twilight backed her head and looked at Sunset. "I can't believe it...This...This is really happening."

Sunset lightly shook her head, smiling, knowing very well where Twilight was taking this conversation.

"You're graduating, Sunset!"

Sunset nodded. "Eeyup."

"I just!-I can't!-I don't know what to say!" Twilight gibbered before planting her lips on Sunset's for a quick kiss. "I'm so happy for you! It's finally here! You're graduating high school, Sunset!"

"Yeah," Now Sunset was getting a little giddy. "I guess I am!"

"And as valedictorian!?" Twilight quickly returned her lips on Sunset's. "I am so proud of you!" Twilight squeed as she kissed Sunset again.

"I know! Thanks!"

It was true; Sunset Shimmer had been selected to be Canterlot High's valedictorian for this year's graduation. Her grades, achievements, and contributions to the school had nearly made her the clear choice (Sunset did have some tough competition against a Miss Sci-Twilight, but since Miss Twilight began attending Canterlot High at a later time, Sunset was given the title). Sunset could not believe she was actually chosen. When she was called up to the office and told by Principal Celestia that she had been chosen to be this year's valedictorian, she nearly fainted. When Sunset told her friends, they threw her a celebration slumber party, and when she messaged Princess Twilight about it...Well, there was more reason to come.

Sunset chuckled through all the quick kisses Twilight was giving her. "Whoa. Hey, slow down, there," Sunset pulled back. "Not here, Twilight," She whispered.

Twilight embarrassingly shuffled back. "I know, I know, sorry," She blushed. "I'm just so excited."

"Yeah," Sunset smiled. "Me, too."

Twilight took a step back and admired Sunset's outfit. "Is that your robe?"

"Eeyup," Sunset spun around in her Canterlot High colored robe. "What do you think?"

"I like it," Twilight smirked. "It suits you very well, Miss Valedictorian."

"Thanks," Sunset playfully shook her head. She's going to be playing that up for a long time, isn't she? "Speaking of which, we should probably start moving. I do have some things to do, after all."

"Oh, you're right!" Twilight quickly began to walk toward the other side of the room. "We wouldn't want to miss anything," She picked up some clothes lying on a nearby table.

Sunset leaned in. "Is that the disguise Rarity left you?"

"Yup," Twilight put on a light purple jacket, a pair of dark pink sunglasses, and a tan, flowery sunhat. "How do I look?" She asked as she opened a star-designed umbrella.

"Hmm," I think Rarity wants me to take you to the park after all this. "I definitely wouldn't confuse you for Sci-Twi."

"Ha," Twilight closed her umbrella, pointed it to Sunset, and gave her a playful glare. "And it better stay that way."

Sunset playfully rolled her eyes. "I've already told you; never crossed my mind."

"Uh-huh," Twilight placed her hands on her hips. "And it better stay that way."

Sunset snickered. "Whatever," She began to turn around. "Anyway, I better start heading out, now. I'm sure Principal Celestia is wondering where I am right now. I'll see you back here after the ceremony, okay?"

"Okay," Twilight nodded. "And Sunset?"

"Yeah?"

Twilight's eyes sparkled. "I am so proud of you."

Sunset smiled. "I know," Sunset walked back to Twilight. "And I'm so glad you're here," She gave Twilight a little peck on the cheek before she turned back around. "See you soon, Twilight," She jogged out the doorway.

"Bye!" Sunset heard Twilight call back

~Hallway~

Sunset ran through the halls, hurrying her way toward the football field, trying her best not trip over her robe. Oh man, I really hope I'm not too late. She looked up at a nearby clock. Awesome! It looks like I'll get there just in- "Oof!" Sunset accidentally collided with an unseen person and fell to the ground. "Oh my gosh!" Sunset quickly got up. "I am so sorry! I didn't see you there!" She helped pull her unintentional, purple-haired victim back up to her feet. "Are you okay?"

"Uh..." The young teen quickly turned around. "Yeah, thank you," She spoke in a somewhat deep, fake-sounding voice. "I gotta go. Thanks!" She quickly ran off.

"Huh," Sunset watched the girl hurry away. "That was weird. I wonder who that-" She peeked up at the clock again. "Eek!" Sunset started running toward the football field again.


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


"I'm here! I'm here!" Sunset called out before coming to a stop.

"There you are," Principal Celestia placed her hands on her hips. "Just where have you been, Sunset? We were starting to get worried. I was about to go looking for you, myself."

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry," Sunset apologized. "I didn't mean to worry you, Principal Celestia. I just really had to go meet with someone for a bit. It was really important."

Principal Celestia stared at Sunset for a moment, silently, studying her. She was beginning to make Sunset feel nervous before she finally nodded. "I understand, Sunset," Her demeanor softened. "Is everything all right? Do you need help?"

Sunset began to relax. "No, thank you. I just needed to see someone. Everything's just fine," Sunset happily nodded.

"Great," Principal Celestia smiled. "Now, are you ready to present your speech?"

Sunset gave the principal a small bow. "Yes, ma'am!"

"Perfect," Principal Celestia wrapped an arm around Sunset's shoulder. "Commencement doesn't start for another while, now. Why don't you take this time to relax for a bit and clear your mind for your big moment?"

Sunset nodded. "That sounds like a good idea."

"But please," Principal Celestia snickered. "Do stay close this time."

"Hehe," Sunset's blushed. "Right," She gave the principal a thumps-up. "You got it."

"Good," Principal Celestia began to walk away. "I know you'll do great, Sunset. I have complete faith in you. See you soon."

"Okay!" Sunset called back. "See ya!" She waived.

Once the principal was out of view, Sunset shuffled around her robe, reached into her pocket, and pulled out her cell phone (what Principal Celestia didn't know, would not hurt her). Sunset scrolled down her contact list until she found her target. Here we are. She began to type.


Hey Rarity, I found Twilight. She looks great! There's no way anyone will recognize her. Thanks!<3


Sunset waited a few seconds.


Bzzz



You're welcome, darling! And I am so glad to hear she could make it :D



Me, too :) This is going to be the best graduation ever!



Oh darling, I completely agree with you ;)



Figured you would lol. Well, it's about time. Let's do this!



Yes, let's! Good luck with your speech! Ta-ta! <3 



Thanks! Bye! <3


Sunset slipped her phone away and began to make her way toward her post, passing by the long line of fellow graduating students along the way.

"Good luck, Sunset!"

"Congratulations, Sunset!"

"I know you'll do great, Sunset!"

"Thanks!" She happily told all of them. "I'll do my best!"


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


The bright moon and shining stars helped the stadium lights illuminate the loud football stadium. The stands were absolutely packed with friends and family members holding cameras, flowers, or balloons while the field was filled with rows upon rows of extremely eager Canterlot High seniors just waiting for their names to be called. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation but gradually became more silent when Principal Celestia took up the podium standing on the small stage in the center of the field.

Sunset took a seat beside Vice Principal Luna on the stage, eagerly waiting Principal Celestia to speak.

"Testing. Testing, 1,2,3," Principal Celestia spoke into the microphone, and the entire stadium became silent. "Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family," She addressed. "Thank you all for coming here, tonight. We are gathered here tonight for a very special occasion, an occasion in which we celebrate all of these fine students we have grown to know and love," Principal Celestia paused. "I'm of course talking about these young adults' high school graduation."

There was a loud round of cheers and applause.

Principal Celestia chuckled along with the audience before she resumed. "Yes, yes, it is very exciting, isn't it? But let us not sell this occasion short; these young adults worked long and hard to get this far. A high school diploma is an achievement that is not easily earned. Time, dedication, and sacrifice only scratch the surface of what these students did to make it here, tonight, and to help give you some perspective, let us hear a speech prepared for us by one the finest students ever to grace Canterlot High," Principal Celestia stood tall. "She is a strong, wonderful young woman who has done so much for this school and her fellow students. This is student who very well embodies what it means to be a Canterlot Wondercolt, and someone I'm sure everyone who knows her is glad to have had the pleasure of meeting her," Principal Celestia smiled at the entire crowd. "I'm positive you know who I'm talking about. Ladies and gentlemen, please give a big round of applause for this year's valedictorian, Sunset Shimmer!"

Sunset stood up when her principal called for her. The second she got up, she could hear the entire stadium starting to cheer for her. As she made her way toward the podium, she looked around and admired the entire scenery of all the happy students, faculty, and guests all cheering for her.

"Sunset! Sunset! Sunset!

Sunset tried her hardest to hide her blush as she came up to the podium, gave Principal Celestia a small bow, and took her place at the center.

Sunset took one last look around the stadium before finally speaking. "Thank you, all of you." 

Then, with on deep breath, she started. "Wow, does time fly, doesn't it? How many of you hear can't believe we're graduating?" Sunset looked around and saw a few hands come up. "Strange, isn't it? To me, it feels like only yesterday when I stepped foot into Canterlot High, and, wow, has it been a journey ever since."

"Now, I want to ask all of you a question: what's the next?" The stadium seemed to become a bit more silent. "It's a hard question, isn't it? I've done a little bit of research and found three common answers: 'college', 'work', and, most commonly, 'I'm not sure'...Now, how does everyone feel about that last one?"

"I know the world is tough, and, sometimes, it can even be unfair. That's life. It isn't always sunlight and river streams. It can beat you down. Hard. Why, I personally know someone who dedicated so much time for one goal, only for life to have other plans and squash any hope of achieving that goal. This person worked day and night, for years, nonstop, plotting every single course they could think of to achieve this goal, and, when it looked like they were about to reach it, they didn't, because life threw in something this person never expected, and it made that person fall," Sunset paused. "And that person was me."

Gasps could be heard from the crowd.

"But this is the lesson I want to give to you, my fellow students," Sunset smiled. "Look at me. Do I look like I'm crushed from having failed? I'll answer that question, honestly; I'm not. Sure, I was at first. I was completely distraught, but I didn't let that keep me down, and I had others who let it, either. I got up and decided to follow a new path, one that felt better than first one. It didn't come easy; there were plenty who wouldn't give me another chance, and that was my fault. But I didn't give up. I kept pushing through, and, now, here I am."

"My fellow students, life will be hard at times, but, I encourage you, do not let it keep you down, because if you just give up and do nothing...how can you ever expect things to get better?"

"We've all done well to make it this far. I've positive we've all made plenty of memories during our time here at Canterlot High, both good and bad. Yes, both. Now, I ask you this, did you let the bad times get in the way of your good times?"

"No!" The crowd cheered.

"Did you let the bad times keep you away from enjoying your life?!"

"No!" They cheered louder.

"Did you let the bad times keep you from graduating?!"

"NOOO!!!"

"Then, my fellow students, let us seize the day! We are only given the gift of life once. There is no rehearsal; this is our only shot, so let's make the most of it!"

"YEAH!!!"

"After tonight, we're going to go out there and show the world just what we're made of! You with me?!"

"YEEAAHH!!!"

"Then go, my friends! Seize the dreams you have, keep close the people you care for, and NEVER give up! Go out there and live life to its fullest. Show the world what it means to be a CANTERLOT WONDERCOLT!"

"YEEEAAAHHH!!!" The crowd roared. "SUNSET! SUNSET! SUNSET! SUNSET!"

Sunset just stood there and listened to the crowd cheer for her. She looked on and felt nothing but pride her fellow students who were now ready to seize the day.

With nothing left to say, Sunset simply smiled at the crowd and spoke into the microphone one last time. "Thank you."


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


After Sunset's speech, the graduation ceremony proceeded as planned with all of the girls' names eventually being called. It was incredible. They had really did it.

Once the ceremony was over, each of the girls split up to be with their respective families for awhile, as they would, of course, like to congratulate their graduates. However, the night did not end when the ceremony did. Quite the contrary; there were still a few surprises to be had.

While most of the graduating students left once they had gotten their diploma to celebrate with their friends and families, the Equestria Girls stayed behind. They were indeed planning on celebrating together, but one of their members requested they do "role call" before they left.

After giving her last thanks to Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna, Sunset dashed back to Canterlot High, hurrying to get back to her friends. As she ran through the hallways again, Sunset passed by a few remaining students and faculty, all of whom congratulated her on her speech. Sunset thanked all of them but did not stop to talk to them. She was sorry for not giving them more time of her day, but Sunset really felt like she needed to be somewhere.

Sunset hurried to get to the band room, the meeting spot between her and her friends had agreed upon. She kept running through the halls as fast as she possibly could, until, finally, its door came in sight. With one final burst of speed, Sunset ran threw the doorway and to her friends.

"We did it!" Sunset yelled.

"YEEAAHH!" They all cheered as they came together for a group hug.

"I can't believe it!" Sunset felt a tear form in her eye. "We actually did it!"

The girls all silently stood in each other's embrace, rocking each other, relishing in their great accomplishment. They just couldn't believe it; they actually finished high school together. Feeling the love and warmth they were sharing, Sunset felt like she could just stand right there forever.

However, that little daydream didn't last very long; Sunset's thoughts were interrupted when she heard Rarity call her name.

"Hey, Sunset," Rarity whispered.

Sunset moved her head to face Rarity. "Yeah?"

"Look," She pointed.

Sunset broke away from the hug, turned around, and saw an all-too-familiar looking purple girl in disguise running towards her. Sunset smirked, knowing very well who it was. "Hey, there, Twi-LIGHT!" Sunset cheerfully squealed as she was tackled into the ground by her girlfriend.

After landing on floor, Sunset looked up to see a tearful Twilight smiling at her. "Congratulations!" She gave Sunset's lips a quick peck. "You did great!" She pecked her again. "I am just so proud of you!" Twilight leaned in and gave Sunset a much more passionate kiss.

Sunset, of course, kissed back, wrapping her arms behind Twilight's head and pulling herself deeper into the kiss. They continued on for a bit, pulling themselves into the kiss longer and longer until they finally ran out of breath. Once finished, Twilight climbed off and helped Sunset back up.

After they were both on their feet, Sunset and Twilight were greeted with a few cheers and whistles from the rest of their friends.

"Hehe. All right, all right. Take it easy," Sunset waved her hands at the crowd. "Nothing you haven't seen before."

"Still, not something we see everyday," Rainbow smirked.

Twilight snickered. "Sorry, my fault," She leaned her head on Sunset's shoulder. "I just couldn't help myself. I am just so proud of my little Sunset," She snuggled. "And the rest of you, too, of course."

"Yeah?" Rainbow teasingly puckered her lips. "Then how about you come over here and give me some of that 'pride' you were giving Sunset?"

Before Twilight could even respond, Sunset stepped forward and shook her head. "Nuh-uh. No way. Get your own Twilight."

"Darn," Rainbow slumped back for a bit before raising her eyebrow. "My own, huh?" She slowly turned her head toward Miss Twilight, causing her face to turn immensely red.

"Rainbow Dash!" Miss Twilight jumped back. "I-uh, I mean, I'm flattered, but I don't think I-"

"Kidding," Rainbow wrapped an arm around the nervous girl's shoulder. "Geez, calm down, dude," She chuckled.

"Oh," Miss Twilight breathed out. "Right."

Twilight snickered at her counterpart for a bit before she started pulling away from Sunset. "Really though, I should be apologizing. I'm not here for just Sunset; I'm here for all of you, and, I must say, I am very happy for you all," She smiled at everyone. "You've all done well to finish high school, together. Honestly," Twilight blushed. "Seeing you all go together, I kind of wished I had walked that line, myself."

Everyone laughed.

"Well," Applejack started. "Ah mean, you were briefly a student at Canterlot High."

"Not to mention the reigning Princess of the Fall Formal," Rarity added.

"Eeyup," Applejack nodded. "So perhaps you could've-"

"Oh, no, no, no," Twilight cheerfully interrupted. "It would've nice, but it wouldn't be right. I was never a real student."

"But," Sunset came from behind and wrapped an arm around Twilight's shoulder. "Regardless of all of that, you'll always be a true and genuine Canterlot Wondercolt, through and through," Sunset looked at the rest of her friends. "Right, girls?"

"Uh-huh!"

"Totally!"

"Without doubt!"

Twilight looked at them, each one of them giving her their most sincere smiles. "...Thank you," Twilight blushed. "That means...a lot to me."

Everyone awed and came together for yet another group hug. They felt like they would be doing that a lot that night.

Wiggling her way out as the big embrace ended, Twilight turned around to face Sunset. "And it meant much more that you're the one who said it, Sunset," She said.

"Don't mention it. Just stating the truth," Sunset winked.

Twilight rolled her eyes. "I know I've said this like a thousand times, already, but, honestly, you have really changed since the day we met."

"Yeah, I know," Sunset gave a quick, little nod. "I'd say for the better."

"I agree, and we are all very fortunate for that," Twilight let out a little snicker. "All of us."

Sunset rolled her eyes. "I know," She took a quick glance at all her friends and smiled. "I've heard you and nearly  everyone else at Canterlot High tell me that. Believe me, I know."

"No," Twilight let out another snicker. "I don't think you completely understand me, right now," She eagerly pointed behind Sunset, gesturing her to turn around.

Confused but deciding to humor her anyway, Sunset turned around and saw something that actually was quite surprising.

"Hey!" Sunset hopped back. Standing right in front of her was the purple-haired girl she had bumped into in the hall, earlier. "It's you."

"It's me-eee," The mystery girl teasingly replied.

"Yeah, just who are-" Wait! I-I know that voice. Sunset inspected the girl. And I know that hair. Sunset placed her hands over her mouth and gasped. No way. "Starlight?!"

"Surprise!" Starlight Glimmer ran up to Sunset and gave her a hug. "Congratulations, Sunset!"

"Oh...Uh, thanks!" Sunset happily hugged her back. "Wow! Uh, Starlight, what are you doing here?"

"To see you, silly! You think I was just going to miss out on your graduation?"

"Ha. Right, thanks," Sunset breathed out. "Wow...I must say, I did not expect to see you here, tonight."

"Well, that's what makes it a surprise, right?" Starlight joked. "Hope you're not disappointed."

"Haha. No, not at all," Sunset pulled back and observed her friend. "Look at you. Nice outfit."

"Thanks! Crossing the portal naturally gave me these for some reason. Weird, right?"

"Yeah, I know about that first hand. Never did figure out why that is. Still," Sunset smiled. "I am so glad you're here."

"Don't mention it. It wouldn't much of a celebration if you're friends aren't here, right?"

Sunset chuckled. "I totally agree."

A knowing little look appeared on Starlight's face. "I don't think you understand exactly what I meant."

Sunset raised her eyebrow. This again?
"Okay, Starlight, what are you hiding?"

With a grin, Starlight cleared her throat and cocked her head to the left, toward the entrance.

Curiously, Sunset looked over to her right to where Starlight was pointing. Upon turning, Sunset noticed a small group of people heading their way. They were all about Sunset's size and were dressed in various sunglasses, scarves, and other articles of clothing that were pretty odd given the time of day and weather. They entered the room and stopped once they reached Sunset.

Now closer and with a better view, Sunset began to understand just what Starlight meant. A smirk formed on Sunset's face. "No...way..."

"SURPRISE!" Each member of the group took off their disguises to reveal the identical faces of Sunset's human friends (and their little dog).

Sunset beamed. "Spike?! Applejack?! Rainbow Dash?! Rarity?! Fluttershy?! Pinkie Pie?!"

"Congratulations, Sunset!" They all ran to Sunset and formed a group hug.

"Ha! You guys!" Sunset hugged them back. "What are you all doing here?"

Equestrian Applejack started. "Well, we-"

"Rhetorical question. I know why you're here!" Sunset excitedly interrupted. "And I'm so happy you are!"

They all stood there and hugged each other for a bit longer before slowly breaking off. Once apart, Sunset looked at all of her surprise guests and joyfully shook her head. "So, how did this happen?"

"I believe I can explain," Twilight teasingly talked as she walked up behind Sunset. "I brought them here."

"You? Really?" Sunset face-palmed herself. "I should've known."

"Well, it's hardly her fault," Starlight happily stepped in. "It's not like we could just miss out on something like this."

"That's right," Equestrian Rarity added. "When Twilight told us you were graduating, we just had to come and see."

"Eeyup," Twilight wrapped an arm around Sunset's shoulder. "I was a little hesitant at first, but then I considered the occasion and decided I was more than on board with this little surprise," Twilight chuckled. "Of course, for obvious reasons, I couldn't just bring our Equestrian friends over."

"Eenope," Equestrian Applejack shook her head. "We know all about our bipedal counterparts, here."

"Exactly," Twilight confirmed. "We didn't want to cause any serious confusion around here, so I secretly set up a few meetings with this world's Rarity to make us some disguises."

Sunset's eyes widened. "What?!" She turned to see Teen Rarity. "You knew about this?!"

The human Rarity snickered. "Guilty as charged! Didn't want to spoil the surprise," She winked.

Sunset gave her a playful scowl. "Why, you..."

"Ugh, the whole thing was so weird!" Equestrian Rainbow Dash blurted out. "First, we all showed up looking like this, then it turned it out we couldn't fly or anything, and then we had to stand around and listen to both Rarities talk about clothes and junk for hours!"

"Fabulous job with the our outfits, by the way, Miss Rarity," Equestrian Rarity quickly complimented.

"Why, thank you, My Little Rarity!" Teen Rarity beamed. "Your compliment is the greatest praise I've received."

"Oh, Miss Rarity, you are simply too kind."

"Ugh!" Rainbow Dash groaned. "I'm telling you, they were like that the entire time!"

Sunset nodded. "Yeah, I believe you."

"But, hey," Equestrian Rainbow started again. "It was all worth it to see you here, tonight, buddy," She lifted her fist.

Sunset smiled as she bumped it. "Thanks, Rainbow."

"Anytime," Rainbow welcomed. "But we gotta be fair, here," Equestrian Rainbow Dash began to walk toward the other side of the room. "After all, you're not the only graduating, tonight."

Sunset watched as her Equestrian friend-turned-human separated from her and walked over to her confused looking, rainbow-haired-colored counterpart. "Yo."

Teen Rainbow Dash just stared back for a moment. "Uh..."

"How you doing, good looking?" Equestrian Rainbow smirked. "Digging the hair."

The teen Rainbow gave her double a brief look of shock before letting out a tiny snicker. "Hehe...Thanks," She smiled. "Your's isn't so bad, either."

As the double Rainbow began to mingle, Teen Applejack was then approached by an all-too-familiar looking young woman.

"Howdy, there," Equestria's Applejack greeted. "Hehe. So I take it you're mine?"

"Well, Ah'll be," Teen Applejack chuckled. "What gave it away?"

"The hat," Equestrian Applejack pointed.

Teen Applejack tipped the said article. "Nice deduction."

"Um, excuse me?" Teen Fluttershy heard a soft call and turned to see who it was from.

"Sorry to bother you, but are you this world's Fluttershy?"

Teen Fluttershy looked at her double and slowly nodded. "Uh-huh."

Equestrian Fluttershy suddenly brightened. "Oh my goodness! What a pleasure!" She beamed. "It's so nice to meet you!"

The teen Fluttershy then smiled. "You, too!"

"OH MY GOSH, ANOTHER PINKIE PIE!" The teen Pinkie heard as her bubbly double suddenly appeared before her. "HELLO, MY NOT-MIRROR-POOL MEEEE!"

Teen Pinkie gasped. "You're the other Pinkie?!"

Equestrian Pinkie excitedly nodded. "Eeyup!"

Teen Pinkie gasped. "Wow! I thought my counterpart was that pretty, purple-haired girl talking to Rarity!"

"No, that's Rarity's counterpart!" Equestrian Pinkie Pie corrected.

"Wow!" Teen Pinkie's eyes twinkled. "So, what are going to do now?! Have a goof-off?! Ask each other questions only we would know?! Go to your dimension to see how my friends and I look as ponies?! Switch places with each other to fool all of our friends?!"

"Nah," Equestrian Pinkie shook her head. "That would all be fun, but this is Twilight's and Sunset's story. Save those stuff for another."

"Okay!" Teen Pinkie happily nodded. "Makes sense."

As all the other ponies-turned-humans began socializing with their own counterparts, Sunset was left to chat with Starlight and a pair of Twilights.

"Well, looks like they're all getting along just fine," Sunset said.

"Looks like it," Princess Twilight agreed. "Definitely better than our first meeting, wouldn't you say Miss Twilight?"

"Most definitely," Miss Twilight nodded. "Oh, wait! Has anyone seen-" Just as she was about to finish her question, Miss Twilight heard some barking nearby. She turned her head toward the source of the sounds to see two purple, little pups chasing each other and playing around. "Hehe...Never mind."

"Huh," Starlight looked around. "Seeing everyone kinda makes me want to have a double. Has anyone seen another Starlight around town?"

"Nope," Miss Twilight answered. "Sorry but you're the only Starlight we've come across."

"Darn," Starlight sighed. "Hey, what about your double, Sunset?"

"Haven't found her," Sunset shrugged. "I've thought about looking for her a few times, but I've never really tried. Didn't really think it mattered too much," Sunset then took another look around the room, seeing all of her friends socializing. "Besides, this place is crowded enough as it is, don't you think?"

Starlight snickered. "Yes, I suppose."

"Seriously, though," Sunset smirked as she raised her eyebrow. "I had no idea all of you were showing up. Look at this room; it's packed! A little warning would have been nice, you know."

"Well," Princess Twilight wrapped an arm around Sunset's. "We wanted to surprise you, Sunset."

"That's right," Starlight wrapped an arm around Sunset's shoulder. "That's what friends do! Besides, this is kind of your fault, too, if you think about it."

Sunset was taken back. "Oh, really, now?" She sarcastically said. "Do tell. Please, enlighten me, Starlight."

"Well," Starlight smirked. "If you didn't want that many people showing up, you shouldn't have made so many friends!"

Sunset stared at Starlight, wide-eyed. "...Touche," She chuckled. "Huh," Sunset gave the room another look. "Wow. I guess I  have made a decent number of friends, haven't I?"

"You sure have," Princess Twilight happily agreed.

"Bit of a far cry from when I first met you, huh?"

"Mm-hm," Princess Twilight nodded.

"Oh yeah," Miss Twilight added. "I've always heard that you were a bit of a bully before I transferred here."

Sunset cocked her head. "And a queen bee."

"Really? Honestly, I find all of that to be pretty hard to believe," Miss Twilight admitted. "You've been almost nothing but nice to me since we've met, and you've even helped me make some friends of my own."

Sunset chuckled. "Well, it was a while back. Things changed."

Miss Twilight adjusted her glasses. "I can see that."

"Yup," Sunset casually started. "I went from the school fearing me to liking me, my biggest victims became my best friends, and my perceived mortal enemy became the love of my life," Sunset turned her head towards her side to face Princess Twilight. "That everything?"

"For the most part," Princess Twilight answered.

"Wow. Looks like you've accomplished a lot for yourself, Sunset," Starlight said.

"Ha. I guess, but I like to think of it as more of a byproduct of me giving friendship a chance. I didn't do any of those things to feel accomplished; I just actually wanted to start being everybody's friend. Everything else that came after just happened, and I couldn't be happier with the way things turned out. Friendship is the best."

Starlight stayed silent. "...That's great, Sunset," She said before giving Twilight a small nod which was immediately returned.

With that simple signal, Starlight walked past her friends and left the room. 

"Hey, where's she going?" Sunset asked as she saw her friend exit.

"She'll be right back," Twilight answered. "There's something that needs to be done."

Sunset raised her eyebrow. "...Huh?"

Ignoring her girlfriend's confusion, Twilight broke away from Sunset and Miss Twilight and walked toward the center of the room.

"May I have everyone's attention, please?" Twilight called out. "May I have everyone's attention, please?"

Everyone stopped what they were doing and turned to face Twilight.

"Thank you," Twilight started. "I'm sorry for interrupting everyone, but I have a few things I'd like to say if that's okay."

Everyone gave each other a brief look before turning back to focus on Twilight.

"Thank you, everyone," Twilight cleared her throat. "Tonight is a very special night for many of you. You students of Canterlot High have done well to graduate from high school together. I look to all of you now and feel nothing but great pride. I am certain you all will do many more great things in the future, and I am positive that I will be proud of you for many, many more years to come. I congratulate each and every one of you," Twilight paused. "But right now, please allow me to be just a bit unfair with the rest of you, and allow me to focus on Sunset Shimmer."

Everyone took a moment to give each other a silent nod of agreement before turning their attention to the said redhead.

"Sunset..." Twilight took a deep breath. "Sunset, when we first met, it was not on the most friendly terms; you were nothing but a selfish pony who didn't really care about anyone other than herself. You would do most anything and use anyone to get what you wanted. You were a power hungry pony, and it was taking you down a very dark path."

Sunset's face didn't express even a fraction of emotion; rather, she was paying close attention to every word Twilight said and gave her a small nod to continue on after Twilight had paused.

"But since then," Twilight stepped closer. "You've changed. Everyone here can see that you're not the same pony you were. You've turned a new leaf, opened yourself to the magic of friendship, and have become one of the most kind and caring beings I've personally ever seen in this or any other dimension."

Twilight gave Sunset a warm smile. "But you didn't stop there; after you learned and accepted the beauty of friendship, you passed it on," Twilight raised one hand toward the group of her human friends. "You've led your friends through their differences to help them defeat the Sirens and reunite the school," Twilight raised her other hand toward her double. "You saved Miss Twilight from her dark powers and showed her a world with friends. And..." Twilight moved both her hands to gently hold Sunset's. "You taught me a very special type of friendship that I didn't really know," Twilight's cheeks turned a bright red over her smile. "Love."

Sunset heard "aww's" fill the room as she felt her own cheeks turn red.

"And now, here you stand, surrounded by your friends; your loved ones; your family, all standing here, together, finished with one journey and ready to take the next step towards the future," Twilight gently lifted hers and Sunset's hands. "Sunset, I just want to say that I am so proud of you."

The room became filled with more aww's.

"But, honestly...it doesn't completely surprise me that you've made it this far."

Sunset's eyes turned wide. "What?"

"Sunset, you've always had the potential to do great things; you've always been bright, intelligent, and motivated. You were just missing something very important: empathy, and, now, you have it. You are full of potential, Sunset, and, you're just now beginning to unlock it," Twilight's eyes sparkled. "I always knew you had it in you."

"Aw. Thanks, Twilight"

Twilight looked deep into Sunset's eyes before she took a moment to close her own and take a deep, somber breath.

"Hey," Sunset looked at her concerned girlfriend. "What's wrong, Twilight?"

"Sunset..." Twilight opened her eyes and looked at Sunset's with great empathy. "I always knew you had potential..." She tightened her grasp on Sunset's hands. "...And someone else has known it, as well."

With those final words, Twilight gently let go of Sunset's hands and walked beside her, wrapping an arm around Sunset's shoulder.

Sunset looked at Twilight with confusion. "Twilight, what are you doing?"

"...You'll see," Twilight looked towards the room's exit. "Starlight!" She called out.

Starlight soon reappeared, staying quite quiet as she walked back in. She gave Sunset a brief look before quickly turning away and stepping aside from the entrance. Starlight slowly looked up at Twilight, receiving a small nod in response. Message received, Starlight looked out the doorway. "You can come in, now."

Just what is going on here? Sunset thought to herself.

This entire scenario became very strange to Sunset. At first, it started out as a nice little speech from Twilight congratulating everyone on graduating, but then it gradually turned into a lecture covering Sunset's progression into becoming a good person. Sunset has heard the story plenty of times before (heck, she's the star of it), so why would Twilight bring it up again in front of everyone?

Not long after Starlight called out, a rather tall figure and strangely dressed person appeared from the doorway. They were wearing a dark fedora, a pair of sunglasses, a scarf covering the bottom half of their face, and a long, brown trench coat. Sunset didn't recognize this person at all, but, regardless of that, this mysterious person was making her way towards Sunset.

Sunset tried to stand tall as the stranger stopped before her. They said nothing. For a solid while, Sunset and the stranger did nothing but try to stare into each other's eyes in complete silence with no one else in the room daring to speak, either.

The silence was finally broken when stranger finally spoke out.

"Hello, Sunset," They said.

Sunset's eyes widened. That voice! I-I know that voice! Is it-

The stranger began to take off their scarf, revealing a very familiar complexion. They then removed their sunglasses, letting Sunset see a pair of magenta eyes she hadn't seen in a long time. Finally, the stranger took off their hat, letting their hair of many colors slowly flow out free, confirming Sunset of her suspicion's of just who this "stranger" was.

Sunset shivered. "P-P-Princess Celestia?!"

"Yes," The alicorn-turned-human answered. "It's been some time, Sunset."

Sunset began shaking. "I...I..." Sunset fell to her knees. "Y-Y-Your majesty!" She hectically bowed. "Your presence honors me! T-T-To what do I owe the pleasure?!" Sunset lowered her forehead until it touched the cold, hard floor with an audible thump that echoed through the entire room.

Silence.

"I...I'm sorry," Sunset quietly spoke from the ground. "I can guess why you're here; I take it you want to speak to me? I imagine you would have a few words for me after our...last meeting," Tears began to form in Sunset's eyes. "...I am so, so sorry, Princess Celestia...I know I messed up, and I am sorry," *Sniff* "...I know I failed you, and I'm ashamed. I'm ashamed every wrong thing and choices I've made," Sunset began to sob. "I am."

Sunset then began to freely cry on the floor, letting everyone else in the room see her wallow.

As she continued wallowing, Sunset heard footsteps coming her way before stopping right in front of her. "Sunset."

Princess Celestia. Sunset began to lift her head. *Sniff.* "Yes, Princess-?!"

Before Sunset could finish, she was being lifted up off the ground and into gentle hug.

"There, now. Please, stop crying, my dear Sunset," Princess Celestia snuggled her head on Sunset's shoulder. "Everything okay."

"But...Princess, I thought-"

"Shh. Don't think like that," Princess Celestia gently shushed her former protege. "Don't think like that at all, Sunset. I don't."

"What?"

Sunset felt Princess Celestia lift her head off of her shoulder, but, the moment Sunset caught the slightest glimpse of Celestia's face, she quickly turned her head away and closed her eyes.

"Sunset," Sunset heard quitely Celestia call her. "Sunset, please look at me."

Sunset didn't respond to the request and continued to look away.

"Please, Sunset. We both know we need to talk," Sunset felt the arms around her back clinch. "Please, I need this just as much as you do."

Sunset's eyes went wide open. What?

Did she really just hear that? Did Sunset really just hear her former teacher, who had expelled her from her studies and banished her from her home in Canterlot Castle, really just say she needed something from her?

Of all the possible things that could have happened tonight, this scenario was one of the last things Sunset would have wished for. It had been so long since Sunset had last seen her former mentor, and their last meeting didn't exactly end on good terms.

After their fallout and especially after Sunset's redemption, Sunset had become very hesitant to talk about Princess Celestia to anyone, let alone the idea of actually meeting her again. Every time Sunset's friends brought up the subject of her past in Canterlot, Sunset would always shy away from any mention of her former mentor. Even the attempts of her girlfriend, Princess Twilight, to get her to see Celestia again were always met with opposition from Sunset's part. It just wasn't something Sunset wanted to do.

Of course, not wanting to do it didn't mean that Sunset never thought about what seeing Celestia again would be like. Indeed, the thought had crossed Sunset's mind more than once. Throughout the years she had been away from Equestria, Sunset had envisioned a few different scenarios of what it would be like to see Celestia again; at first, Sunset always envisioned herself returning to Equestria with great power, ready to oppose Celestia and take the throne by force. Later on, after her redemption, Sunset's ideas became less clear; she most certainly wouldn't see Celestia to oppose her, but what would Celestia do after all this time? Would she be mad? Would she be banish her from Equestria for plotting against her and her new protege?

Needless to say, her current situation of being embraced and begging to be talked to did not resemble any of Sunset's expectations at all. Yet, it did not bother her; if anything, it was a lot more merciful than Sunset thought she would get from Celestia, and, in some way, Sunset felt that she needed to speak with Celestia, too. With all her strength, Sunset turned her head and ever so slowly opened her eyes to face Celestia.

Sunset's eyes were met with the all-too-familiar pair of magenta eyes, staring back at hers with small tears forming.

Celestia smiled. "There you are, my dear, Sunset."

"Princess Celestia..." Sunset breathed out.

"It has been far too long."

"Y-Yeah...I guess this conversation has been bit overdue," Sunset shivered.

Celestia squeezed Sunset a bit more and began to gently brush a hand through Sunset's hair again. "There is no need to fear me, Sunset. I am not here to reprimand you."

"You're...not?" Sunset squeaked.

"No, my dear, Sunset. Quite the contrary; I'm here to congratulate you!"

Sunset's eyes widened. "You are?"

"Yes, Sunset," Celestia emotionally nodded. "Over the past moons you've been away, Twilight has told me of the many endeavors you've been having in this world. The leadership and courage you've been displaying to face the adversaries you've been facing is most impressive from what I hear. You've done well to overcome the obstacles you've been facing. Well done, Sunset," Celestia then paused for a moment. "But you've done something else that's caught my attention, Sunset. Something that deserves more congratulations than stopping any evil you have faced."

"What?"

"Look around, Sunset," Celestia waved her arm the room for Sunset to see. "What do you see?"

Sunset took a look across the room and smiled when she noticed what Celestia was referring to. "My friends."

"Exactly," Celestia nodded. "I was there at your graduation ceremony, Sunset. I've heard the speech you gave to your fellow classmates, I've seen the respect you give to them, and I see the love you share with your friends. Sunset, you're a far cry from the pony you once were. You've opened yourself to trust, love, and kindness and have become someone caring and surrounded by loved ones. You've matured, Sunset, and I am just so proud of you!" Celestia tearfully squeezed her arms around Sunset.

"Princess Celestia..." Sunset was at a loss for words but was undoubtedly touched. "Thank y-"

"Wait!" Celestia quickly placed a finger over Sunset mouth. "Not yet. There's still one more thing I need to do."

"Um, okay. What?"

"This," Celestia moved her head back to face Sunset and then closed her eyes before she resumed speaking. "Sunset, I know you've been hesitant to see me ever since you left Equestria."

Sunset shrunk a bit. "Um...Yes."

"And that is not okay."

Sunset shrunk more. "I know, Princess, and I am so sorr-"

"And I am very sorry, Sunset."

Now Sunset just look dumbfounded. "...Wha?"

"Sunset," Celestia resumed. "I tried my best to get you on the path of greatness, but all I did was feed your desire for power. Any attempt I did to try to get you back on a less selfish path failed and only resulted in you becoming more distant from me. A drift was made between us, one so terrible that it resulted in you leaving not only me but Equestria," A few tears began to trickled through Celestia's closed eyes.

"Princess-"

"Not only that, but even moons later, after you've changed and become the loving person you are now, you still did not want to see me again. All this time and it is only now after I come here without your approval do I see you. Sunset, I am sorry I couldn't save you from that dark path your were on, I'm sorry I failed you as a teacher, and I am sorry to have driven you away," Celestia wrapped herself around Sunset again. "Please, forgive me."

"N-No!" Sunset hastily replied. "Princess, you have nothing to apologize for. You didn't put me down that path; I did. It's my fault I left Equestria, not yours," Sunset pulled herself back to face Celestia. "I didn't ignore you all this time because I hated you; I did it because...I was afraid. I was afraid that you'd be mad at me for everything I had done. I was afraid that you'd hate me," Now a few tears trickled down Sunset's cheeks. "I'm sorry."

There was another pause as Sunset and Celestia silently stared each other. Everything remained quiet until Celestia moved her hand to wipe a tear off of Sunset's cheek.

"Oh, my dear, Sunset. I could never hate you."

A small smile formed on Sunset's face. "Nor I you."

"I suppose we've both made mistakes."

"It looks like it."

Then, finally, after all this time of turmoil and being apart, Sunset did something she never did before: she hugged Celestia back.

"I am so glad you're here, Princess Celestia. I've needed this for a long time."

"Me, too," Celestia rested her head over Sunset's. "And I hope you'll accept my invitation for tea, sometime. I would love to learn more about the Sunset Shimmer you've become."

"That sounds great," Sunset blushed. "Canterlot Castle?"

"Wherever you'd like. You are welcome anywhere in Equestria."

The band room was once again filled with "Aww's" as Sunset and Celestia finally made peace. After all this time of being apart, the student and the mentor were finally reunited.

After another good while, Sunset finally unlatched herself from the Celestia's embrace and looked toward her friends. "All right, all right," She waved for them to calm down. "I think I've had enough emotional surprises for one night, so-" Sunset clapped her hands together. "Party at Pinkie's?"

The room responded with a loud "YEEAAHH!!!"

"Then let's move out!"

Nearly all of Sunset's friends began to scramble toward the exit, hurrying to be the first ones to Pinkie's house. Sunset, however, didn't move as quickly; rather, she patiently stood and waited for Twilight and Starlight to catch up to her.

"You two ready to go?" Sunset asked.

"Yeah!" Starlight responded.

"Of course," Twilight took Sunset's hand.

"Great," Sunset then turned her head. "Ready to go, Princess Celestia?"

"Indeed," She happily nodded.

"Perfect," Sunset then took Celestia's hand. "We've got a lot of catching up to do."


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


The party had been the most fun anyone had in quite some time. If a party with one Pinkie Pie was great, then one with two was amazing. Sugar, friends, snacks, music, there was never a dull moment to be had at this party. Pinkie's family even joined in on the fun after asking about the "cloning" theme that was going on. Life was good.

But now came what might be the most difficult part of the night: saying goodbye.

Everyone was gathered around the statue of Canterlot High while the moon lit up their sky. About half the group was standing near the portal, ready to cross it while the other half stood by to send them off.

"Well," Sunset started. "I guess this is it, huh?"

Sunset's human friends tearfully looked back at her before Applejack stepped up.

"Don't talk like that, Sunset," Applejack removed her hat as she forced a smile. "We'll always be friends. We'll just..." She rubbed the back of her head. "Be a little farther from each other is all."

Teen Fluttershy then joined in. "We all knew this day was coming, Sunset. Please, don't blame yourself."

"She's right," Applejack nodded. "We've all go to take the next step in our lives."

"And it's not the complete end, either," Rarity stepped in. "Remember, darling, you promised to go with us on vacation," She playfully raised her eyebrow.

Sunset gave her light chuckle. "I know. I'll just stay in Equestria while you're all gone. Just let me know when all of your families come back from your personal vacations in a few weeks."

Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Miss Twilight all came in.

"You bet!"

"Totally!"

"Of course."

"Thanks," Sunset sniffed as she wiped a tear off her cheek. With a deep breathe, she then unzipped her duffle bag and pulled out an all-too-familiar looking journal. "Here," She handed the book to her friends. "Take this. It will help us keep in touch while you guys are in college."

They all looked down at the journal. "But Sunset-"

"It's okay," Sunset interrupted. "Please, just take it. Twilight has the other book in Equestria, so we'll be talk to each other whenever we want."

The group of human friends gave each other a few concerned looks. After some brief deliberating, they all gave each other a few nods before Rarity reached out and took the book.

"Thank you, darling," She held it close to her chest. "We'll be sure to message you."

"Yeah," Rainbow enthusiastically nodded. "We'll mail it around to each other every week. That way, we can all talk to you."

"Perfect," Sunset then began blush. "Just uh...Please don't read the pages that are written with red ink. Those are more...personal messages that Twilight and I sent each other."

"Ooh!" Pinkie's face turned a little flirty. "Those are gonna be the first pages I read. Meow," She winked.

The entire group of friends laughed at Pinkie's comment.

Once Sunset was done holding her sides, she looked back up to her friends and smiled. "You all do your best in college, okay?"

They all nodded in agreement.

"And you," Applejack pointed. "Be the best pony you can be in Equestria, got it?"

"Of course," They all came together for a group hug. "I'm going to miss all of you so much," Sunset tearfully stated.

"We'll miss you, too, darling," Rarity replied. "But we will see each other again."

"I know," Sunset sadly nodded. "I know."

Slowly, hesitantly, the group of friends broke apart from the hug with the group standing back and looking at Sunset and Sunset back at them.

There was a long moment of silence when Sunset felt a hand on her shoulder. She looked back and saw Princess Twilight smiling at her.

"Sunset," She said. "Everyone," She looked at the group of teenagers. "It's touching that you're all saying you're going to miss each other, but you're all forgetting one very important thing," She smiled at them.

Everyone looked at each other with confusion.

"What's that, Twilight?" Sunset asked.

Twilight then moved in between Sunset and the teen group. She then wrapped an arm around Sunset's and Miss Twilight's shoulders. She looked at both Sunset and the group and then, after a deep breath, began.


Nothing stays the same for long,
But when it changes doesn't mean it's gone,


Princess Twilight then nudged Miss Twilight, who happily joined in.


Time will always get away,
As it leaves behind another day,


Fluttershy smiled.


Things may come and things may go,
Some go fast and some go slow,
Few things last, that's all I know,


Fluttershy held Sunset's hands.


But friendship,
Carries on through the ages,


Rarity began step toward the pony-turned-into humans.


Things may come and things may go,
Some go fast and some go slow,
Few things last, that's all I know,


She opened her arms to everyone, inviting them come together.


But friendship,
Carries on through ages,



Been around for a long time,
Rocking out hard cause I'm in my prime,
Maybe it'll change further down the line,


The other Rainbow Dash joined in.


For my friendship,
Carries on through the ages,


Both Applejacks came together.


Every single style has something different it can say,
There's nothing wrong with being unique,
And special in your own way,


Teen Pinkie Pie appeared on Sunset's left.


Maybe you wanna be a pop-star,


Equestrian Pinkie Pie appeared on Sunset's right.


Get your fifteen minutes of fame,


Double Pie.


Woah-aoh!
That won't last forever,
But friendship,
Remains the same,
Ah-ohh!


Starlight and Celestia appeared in the center of everyone.


Things may come and things may go,
Some go fast and some go slow,


They opened their arms and everyone came together.


Few things last, that's all I know,
But friendship,
Carries on through the ages,


Everyone wrapped an arm around their partner and all circled around Sunset.


Things may come and things may go,
Some go fast and some go slow,
Few things last, that's all I know,
But friendship,
Carries on through the ages,
Oh-ohh!


They all group hugged with Sunset in the center.


Carries on.


Sunset felt nothing but the warmth and love her friends felt for her. As she stood their, surrounded and embraced by the best friends she could ever hope to have, Sunset could do nothing else but close her eyes and smile.


Some Time Later


"Hey, there, Sunset," Sunset turned around after she heard Twilight call her. "What are you doing?"

"Oh, nothing, Twilight," Sunset used her magic to close the journal she and Twilight shared. "Rarity just messaged me about her first day in the Bahamas. She says, and I quote, 'It's absolutely divine'," Sunset and Twilight shared a laugh.

Sunset had been living with Twilight in her castle for just over a week, now. After the night of her graduation, Sunset bid her human friends a final heartfelt farewell and took immediate residence in the room Twilight had made for her.

Living back in Equestria has actually been pretty good so far for Sunset; she's connected well with the residents of Ponyville, Twilight and her have gone on a few dates, and she even has a small tea gathering with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna next week. Things really have been looking good.

However, that's not to say that there hasn't been any trouble in paradise.

"How are you feeling?" Twilight asked as she walked out into the balcony.

Sunset breathed out. She knew what Twilight was really asking. "I miss them everyday."

"I'm sorry," Twilight stepped closer. "I know it must be hard for you."

"Yeah, a bit," Sunset nodded. "It's not easy to just pack up and move away from the home and family you've had for so long."

"I understand," Twilight responded as she wrapped a foreleg around Sunset's shoulder. "Anything I can do to help?"

"No, no," Sunset shook her head. "Don't worry about me. I just need a little more time. It's not like they're completely out of my life," Sunset then felt the journal vibrate in her hoof. "See?"

Twilight gave her a little snuggle. "Indeed."

"You know," Sunset looked up at night's sky. "It's kinda weird."

"How so?" Twilight politely asked.

Sunset breathed out. "I remember back when I started high school, all I wanted to do was come back to Equestria. Now, I'm here and I actually miss high school."

"Well, that's to be expected. It is a big change after all."

"You're right, but it's just...It's amazing how fast time flies. All of those good times I've had with my friends and Canterlot High...They're all just memories. It feels so unfair."

Twilight gave Sunset a reassuring squeeze. "I know everything might seem a bit unfair right now, but you've said it yourself: they're not out of your life," The journal vibrated again. "See?"

Sunset stared at the journal.

"Just because you're moving on with your life doesn't mean you have to leave the past behind. Now, you get to choose a new path and make new memories with anyone you want," She placed a hoof over the journal. "Anyone. Past, present, or future. So long as you put in the effort."

Sunset stared back at Twilight for a moment. "You sound like Celestia," She laughed.

"Oh, brother," Twilight chuckled as she lifted her foreleg off of Sunset.

"Seriously, though, thanks," Sunset smiled. "That little pep talk always cheers me up."

"You're welcome, Sunset, and remember: things may come and things may go, but-"

"Friendship carries on through the ages," Sunset nodded.

"There you go," Twilight winked.

"Thanks, Celestia," She snickered.

"Would you stop it?" Twilight gave her Sunset a playful little shove.

Sunset laughed for a bit longer. "Speaking of which, that reminds me. There's something I've been meaning to ask you. It's really been on my mind for the past week or so," Sunset cleared her throat, leaned in a little closer, and...exploded. "HOW could you just let her come and see me without telling me?! Do you have any idea what that was like?! You saw me on the floor!"

A bead of sweat fell from the back of Twilight's head. "I'm sorry! Princess Celestia said she didn't want the pressure of expecting her to interfere with your speech or anything! You saw how you reacted!"

"Ugh!" Sunset face-hoofed herself. "...Why does she always have to make sense?" She chuckled as she cooled down. "Geez."

"Exactly," Twilight smirked. "So don't pin that one on me."

"I'll think about it," Sunset sarcastically replied. A light blush then formed on Sunset's cheeks along with a little smile on her face.

"Hey," Twilight noticed. "What's wrong?"

"Oh, nothing."

"Something's on your mind?"

"No idea what you're talking about."

"Tell me," Twilight calmly commanded.

"Nothing to say."

"Tell me," Twilight said with a bit more authority.

"Not happening."

"TELL ME!" Twilight shrieked.

"Nuh-uh."

"All right, all right! Fine!" Sunset submitted. "Okay...Well, uh..." Sunset ran a hoof through her mane. "You, uh, remember when you got into the center of the band room and asked for everyone's attention?"

"Yeah," Twilight nodded.

"And then you congratulated everyone on graduating but then asked to focus on just me?"

"Yes," Twilight answered. "I recall."

"Well, uh...I...I..." Sunset blushed reddened even more. "I didn't think you were going call up Princess Celestia."

Twilight raised her eyebrow. "Well, yeah. Of course. You weren't really supposed to know."

"I know that, but the thing is..." Sunset embarrassingly looked away. "I thought you were about to do something else."

Twilight's eyes widened. "Really now?" She smirked. "And just what did you think I was going to do?"

"...Do I really have to say it?"

"You said you'd tell me."

"...Fine..." Sunset took a deep breath and returned her attention to Twilight. "At that moment...When you asked for everyone's attention and then focused on me...I thought...I really thought that...You were about to..."

Twilight leaned closer. "Yeess???"

Sunset gulped. "...Propose."

Twilight hopped back. "What?!"

"Sorry! Sorry!" Sunset scrambled her hooves all over the air. "I really thought you were about to propose to me! It really looked like it!"

Twilight's face was now as red as Sunset's hair. "Wow," She let out a few nervous laughs. "Wow."

"I told you I didn't want to say it," Sunset stepped closer. "See what happens when you make me do these things?"

Twilight turned her head away in embarrassment. "Yes, I see, now."

"Thank you. Maybe now you'll let me keep quiet about things I want to keep quiet about," Sunset talked as if she gave Twilight a big, life lesson. However, Sunset's attitude disappeared when she noticed that Twilight wasn't turned back to see her. "Twilight?" Sunset leaned her head in but Twilight kept looking in the opposite direction. "You okay? Twilight?"

"Um, Sunset?" Twilight talked without turning around. 

"Yeah?" Sunset cautiously answered.

"Do you think it would've been... silly if I had proposed to you?"

Oh, no. Did I hurt her feelings? "No, of course not, Twilight. I was just talking about how embarrassed I was for thinking you were about to propose to me when you weren't."

"...Are you sure?"

"Of course I am," Sunset placed a hoof Twilight's shoulder. "What's wrong, Twilight?"

"...Well, nothing is wrong, it's just...well..."

Without speaking another word, Twilight finally turned her head around, wearing the most sheepish grin Sunset had ever seen, this world or otherwise. Sunset was about to ask what was wrong again when Twilight's horn lit up and levitated a small case in front of Sunset. Sunset's eyes sparkled when she saw that, in the case, lied a beautiful, shimmering diamond ring in the box's center.

All Sunset could do was hold her hooves to her mouth and let tears flow down her cheeks.


~Many Moons Later~


It had been some time since graduation. Once they were all finished with their vacations, the girls came together one final time before they all separated to go to their respective colleges. That was the last time they saw each other.

Until today.

On this fine, winter day, Fluttershy sat by statue of her former high school, admiring the little wildlife around.

She was playing with her pet bunny when she heard someone call her name.

"Fluttershy!" Fluttershy turned head toward the sound to see Rarity running towards her.

"Rarity!" Fluttershy hugged her old friend. "It's good to see you! How have you been? How's the fashion school going?"

"Oh, it is wonderful, darling! I'm having an absolutely diving time there. How is the university here treating you?"

"It's lovely," Fluttershy nodded. "Thank you."

"Fluttershy! Rarity!" The duo turned around to see Rainbow Dash and Applejack running towards them, apparently having a small race.

"What's up?!"

"Howdy, there!"

They greeted.

"Hey, wait for us!" Pinkie Pie's voice echoed in the air. Everyone turned to see Pinkie running towards them, carrying a shaken-looking Miss Twilight under one of her arms. "Hello!" She greeted when reached them.

"Hi," Miss Twilight dizzily welcomed when she was let down.

"It's been so long!" Pinkie shrieked. "We really need to catch up! You won't believe some of the adventures Twilight and I have had at our school!"

"Sounds cool," Rainbow answered. "Can't wait to hear them."

"Well, Ah'll be," Applejack tipped her hat as she looked. "The gangs all here," She then turned her head towards the statue. "Well, almost."

With everyone giving each other a silent nod, the group approached the statue, hoping the last of their group would appear as promised. They continue to wait patiently for a few more minutes when, finally, the portal began to ripple and out came Sunset Shimmer and Twilight Sparkle.

"Sunset! Twilight!" The group gathered around the fallen girls, lifted them up, and pulled them into a group hug, not even waiting for them to recover from the nauseating trip.

Thankfully, Sunset and Twilight soon regained their senses, and happily greeted their friends.

"It's so great seeing you guys again," Sunset beamed. "It's been way too long."

Princess Twilight then happily spoke. "We missed you all so much. We have so much to catch up on."

"Indeed..." Rarity spoke, curiosity abundant in her speech. "Sunset," Rarity started again. "What is that on your finger?" Rarity pointed at Sunset's left hand..

Sunset looked down at the ring on her finger and then looked over at Twilight, who gave her a smiling nod.

"No. Way," Rarity held her breath.

Sunset nodded at shook friend. "Yeah, about that..." Sunset looked at the rest of her friends, who all looked a little shaken. "Like Twilight said, we've got a loooot of catching up to do. Plus," Sunset blushed. "There's something Twilight and I want to invite you to back in Equestria. Something big."

Sunset and Twilight then lifted up their left hands and showed their friends they rings, leaving all of them speechless.


~End~