Sunset Shimmer rediscovers the family she already has. Can she protect those she loves from the Demon that once lived inside her tormented soul?
In the wake of the Fall Formal, Sunset Shimmer rediscover the family that she already has, and learns what it means to have friends and family. She also discovers the consequences of her actions and what those actions mean for two separate worlds.
The house was dark and quiet as both Sunset Shimmer and Principal Celestia entered. Celestia's husband, Discord, had left for a business trip on the east coast that morning, and her youngest daughter, Scootaloo was spending the night after the Fall Formal at her friend Sweetie Belle's house. The race from CHS had been quiet and tense.
"I'll go pack my things," Sunset said angrily, breaking the silence as she made her way to the staircase.
"Sunset, why would you pack your things?" Celestia asked.
"You're kicking me out aren't you," Sunset said in a hoarse voice, "seems to be all I'm good at."
"Oh, Sunset," Celestia replied, "I may be upset with you, but I'm not going to kick you out. However there are going to be changes."
"What kind of changes?" Sunset asked hesitantly.
"During the school week you are to be home no later than 5:30. Until I say otherwise, you cannot leave the house on weekends unless you are accompanied by Discord, Luna or myself," Celestia said sternly, "and you are suspended from school for the next week. Is all that clear Sunset?"
"Yes ma'am." Sunset grumbled. Then she turned and headed up the stairs to take a much needed shower.
Celestia watched Sunset walk up the stairs and sighed, what am I going to do with you Sunset. She loved the girl dearly, but over the past year, she had grown more difficult and had turned into a bully despite her best efforts, even alienating her own family.
In her room, Sunset sat on her bed. She held her prized leather jacket in her hands. It was burnt, shredded and covered in a fine layer of dust. Sunset threw into the corner of her room in disgust. Removing her shirt, she saw that it was in a similar state. She threw it into the trash can by her desk. After that she went and took a shower before going to bed. Her last thought before she slipped into unconsciousness was; I'm sorry. Celestia, please forgive me.
*****
Sunset collapsed face down in a puddle of her own tears after having climbed out of the crater. Looking up, she saw Twilight Sparkle towering above her.
"The Magic of Friendship exists everywhere. Here and in Equestria" Twilight was saying, "you can seek it it out or forever be- gkkkt!"
Sunset gasped, a red claw was suddenly protruding from Twilight's chest. A dark figure stood behind her. Pushing Twilight's lifeless corpse into the crater, the Demon that had been Sunset stepped into the light.
"My, my, what a position you've placed yourself into Sunset Shimmer!" the Demon cackled. Applejack and Rainbow Dash tried to rush the evil monster. Without taking her eyes off of Sunset, the Demon snapped her fingers and both Rainbow and Applejack burst into flames.
"Do you really think that you would get rid of me so easily?" the Demon screamed in Sunset's head. Pinkie Pie tried to tackle the Demon, but with the flick of her wrist, the monster threw the pink haired party planner against the side of CHS with a sickeningly wet crunch.
"I am part of you," the Demon said, "deep within your very soul. AND YOU ARE PART OF ME!"
The Demon's left hand slowly transformed into a scythe made of flesh and bone. Sunset could only see the pure joy in the Damon's fiery eyes as it turned toward both Fluttershy and Rarity and in one fell motion, beheaded them both. Rarity's head rolled along the ground, her lifeless eyes coming to gaze upon Sunset.
"First your parents, then the Princess. Now your so-called friends," the Demon taunted, "I'll be coming for you next SUNSET SHIMMER!"
*****
Sunset woke in a cold sweat. Her heart felt like it was going to pound it's way out of her chest. Somewhere, someone was screaming.
"Sunset!" Celestia burst into Sunset's room like a mother lion protecting her cubs. Celestia looked down at Sunset, the poor girl hadn't noticed her arrival. She sat in her bed, crying uncontrollably, rocking herself back and forth. Celestia sat down on Sunset's bed, wrapped the girl in her arms and gave her a tight hug.
"It's ok Sunset," Celestia said softly, "I'm here now."
"Mommy," Sunset whimpered. Celestia was startled, it had been over a year since Sunset had called her Mom or Mother, and she had never been called Mommy.
"Shush, little one," Celestia said, "don't worry, you had a nightmare."
Sunset only nodded, slowly her sobs retreated and Sunset fell back to sleep. Celestia slowly got up from Sunset's bed and started to return to her bedroom.
"Please don't leave me." Sunset said quietly. Celestia looked at the sleeping form of Sunset Shimmer.
"I'll be right here when you awake." Celestia said.
The next morning, Sunset awoke to find Celestia asleep on her bedroom floor.
"Celestia?" Sunset asked groggily.
"Good morning Sunset, feeling better?" Celestia asked. She stretched. She now wished that she had agreed with Discord to put carpet in the bedrooms instead of hardwood.
"Did you sleep on the floor all night?" Sunset asked obviously confused.
"You had a nightmare," Celestia said, "don't you remember me coming in?"
"Honestly," Sunset said, "I thought that was just part of the nightmare."
"How about some breakfast," Celestia said finally, "I can make French toast."
"Yes please." Sunset answered.
Later that afternoon, Sunset was sitting on the couch reading a book about the Crusades when Celestia walked in holding her phone.
"I just got off the phone with Cadence, she and her boyfriend are coming by for dinner tonight." Celestia explained.
"The Marine?" Sunset asked, not looking up from her book.
"You make that sound like a bad thing." Celestia said with a touch of concern.
"Sorry, I can never seem to remember his name," Sunset said, "but I know that he is a Marine. Cadence had the USMC poster in her room during her final two years of college before she moved out."
"His name is Shining Armor." Celestia said, "think you can remember it?"
"I'll try," Sunset said meekly. There was the sudden sound of someone stomping up the front steps, followed by the front door flying open. Scootaloo was home. She was followed by Scootaloo's friend Sweetie Belle and her big sister, Rarity.
Scootaloo sat on the couch across from Sunset and turned on the TV and the game console. She selected "Monster Hunter X: Princess Platinum Edition" and handed a controller to Sweetie Belle.
"What is SHE still doing here," Scootaloo said indicating Sunset, "I was certain that Celestia would have tossed your sorry ass to the curb."
Sunset didn't say anything, she just closed her book and went upstairs.
"SCOOTALOO KENNEDY DISCORD!" Celestia said, "go apologize to Sunset!"
"I'm not apologizing to HER." Scootaloo said.
"Why are you so mean to your sister?" Sweetie Belle asked
"She isn't my SISTER!" Scootaloo fumed.
Rarity decided to go and check on Sunset and went up the stairs. Taking them two at a time in a very unladylike fashion. The first door she opened appeared to be a guest room, the closet was empty, though there was a single poster for a 90's boy band on one wall. The next room had to be Scootaloo's room if Rarity had to guess from the mess and all the sports equipment and the collapsed scooter leaning against the desk.
Opening the third door, Rarity found Sunset sitting on her bed silently crying. Her arms were wrapped around her legs and her head was resting on her knees. She entered and placed her large purse on the desk.
"Rarity?" Sunset asked, her mind's eye flashed the image of Rarity's death at the hands of her Demon.
Sunset's behavior was starting to worry the fashionista, she was concerned for the fiery haired girl.
"Sunset, whatever is the matter?" Rarity asked taking a seat beside Sunset. Sunset looked at her, and took a deep breath before recounting her nightmare. By the time Sunset had finished Rarity was at a loss for words, so she did the first thing she could think of and she not only hugged Sunset, but cuddled her as well.
"I don't know what to do." Sunset cried into Rarity's shoulder.
"It will be okay Sunset," Rarity said calmy, "she can't hurt us, and I will always be here."
"You mean it?" Sunset asked.
"Of course." Rarity said, "now why don't you go dry your eyes and we go back downstairs."
Sunset nodded and exited her room and went into the bathroom. Rarity looked around Sunset's room for the first time and her eyes landed on something thrown haphazardly in the corner. Picking the item up Rarity realized that it was what remained of Sunset's leather jacket. Thinking quickly, Rarity stuffed the jacket into her purse just as Sunset finished up in the bathroom.
"Ready darling?" Rarity asked.
"Yeah, thank you Rarity." Sunset in a half whisper.
"Think nothing of it dear," Rarity said as they started down the stairs together, "that's what friends are for. And if you need to some one to talk to, don't hesitate to call me. Allow me to write down my number for you."
It was obvious from the pout on Scootaloo's face that she was grounded. Celestia would allow her to finish her game with Sweetie Belle, but as soon as she and Rarity left the console would be turned off.
"Come Sweetie," Rarity said, " time to go home."
"Aw, Rarity, can't we stay just little longer." Sweetie Belle said.
"Not today my dear, we need to get, and I am sure that Mrs. Celestia and the girls need to get started on their evening plans." Rarity said giving Sunset a smile as she pushed Sweetie Bell out the door.
After Rarity and Sweetie Belle had left Celestia looked at her two adopted daughters.
"Scootaloo, please set the table. Cadence and her boyfriend will be joining us tonight," Celestia said, Sunset, could you help me get the pot roast ready?"
"Yes ma'am," both girls chorused. It wasn't long before Cadence and Shining Armor arrived.
"So, Cadence how is your job at Crystal Prep?" Celestia asked.
"Great so far," Cadence answered, Principle Cinch can be a bit of a stiff at times, but overall I enjoy it."
"That's wonderful, I knew you would love teaching." Celestia said, "how long are you going to be in town Shining Armor?"
"Well, my term of Active Duty ends just after the new year, after that I am transferring to reserves and starting my new job at Crystal Prep."
"I know your parents must be happy." Celestia said.
"They are," Shining Armor said, then he pointed at Sunset and Scootaloo, "that reminds me I have something for the two of you."
Shining Armor reached into his pocket and handed Scootaloo a small envelope. Inside, Scootaloo found a small silver and gold pin.
"What is it?" Scootaloo asked.
"That is the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. The insignia of the United States Marine Corps." Shining Armor said with pride. Then reaching into his bag he handed Sunset a thick book with an Eagle, Globe, and Anchor on the cover. The title proclaimed it to be the "The Complete History of the United States Marine Corps."
"Cadence told me that you love history." Shining Armor said.
"Thank you." Sunset said.
"While I don't mind random gift giving, is there a special occasion for this?" Celestia said, a gleam in her eye.
"Just trying to win over my Fiancee's family, that's all." Shining Armor said smugly.
"Fiancee?" Sunset said looking from Shining Armor to Cadence. Cadence held up her hand to show off the ring. Both Sunset's and Scootaloo's eyes went wide.
Sunset served her week of suspension without complaint. Other then her nightly nightmares, the week hadn't been too bad. Discord had returned from his business trip on Wednesday afternoon and had given Sunset a little lecture after he had gotten settled, he hadn't brought the issue up since. Now it was Saturday afternoon and Scootaloo's friends Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were spending the night, as were Applejack and Rarity. Rarity had brought a few movies for them to watch. The one they were currently watching had a guy named The Goblin King who looked human and nothing like a goblin, most of the characters in the movie were puppets.
"So, Rarity," Sunset said, "what other movies did you bring?"
"The Princess Bride, which is one of Sweetie Belle's favorites," Rarity answered, "and The Return to Oz, for us to watch after the girls go to bed."
"Oh I loved the Wizard of Oz, it was the first movie I saw when I first came here." Sunset said, she hadn't known that there was a sequel.
The phone started to ring but as Sunset started to get up to answer it he saw Celestia out of her home office and grab the phone as she waved Sunset back down.
"Uh, Sunset," Applejack said, "Return to Oz ain't nearly as heart warmin' of a tale as the Wizard of Oz, in fact at times it gets downright depressin'."
Sunset looked at Applejack and Rarity with some confusion. Then she saw Celestia walk back out of office and put the phone back in it's cradle.
"Girls, we're going to have another guest tonight," Celestia said.
"Rainbow Dash?" Scootaloo asked.
"Fluttershy?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"Pinkie Pie?" Applebloom asked.
"Trixie," Celestia answered before walking back into her office, "apparently Luna has a date tonight."
Discord walked into the living from the kitchen carrying three pizza boxes.
"Let's see, one small fiery Hawaiian pizza with extra pineapple and jalapeno for Scootaloo, one large cheese pizza and one supreme pizza." he said placing the boxes on the coffee table. Scootaloo took her pizza and placed it in front of herself.
"DISCORD!" Sunset yelled. The girls all turned and looked at Sunset, the color had drained from her face and she was staring at the pizza in front of her in horror. The girls looked down at the pizza, Sunset had asked for cheese. What she had been given was a pizza with all the toppings, including eggplant and anchovies.
Discord walked into the living room as Celestia walked in from her office to see what the commotion was about. They both looked at the situation, a grin slowly grew on Discord's face, and Celestia could only face palm. Discord grabbed the pizza from Sunset, then went back to the kitchen before returning with the cheese pizza. Celestia followed her husband into the kitchen making a show to slap him in the back of the head in from of all.the girls. She walked back out and into her office carrying a plate with several slices of the everything pizza. Discord followed her with a plate of his own and two bottles of beer.
Sunset had managed to eat two slices of pizza when the doorbell rang.
"I got it!" she called out. Getting up from the couch she walked to the door and opened it to find Luna and Trixie standing on the front porch. Trixie was holding a small bag.
"Come on in," Sunset said trying to sound friendly, "Celestia and Discord are in her office."
Trixie took a seat next to Scootaloo. Luna started to walk towards Celestia's office but stopped when she saw the pizza on the coffee table.
"Scootaloo," Luna said, "is that fiery Hawaiian?"
Scootaloo had a mouth full of pizza so she only nodded.
"May I?" Luna asked. Again Scootaloo nodded, and Luna grabbed a slice before heading into her sisters office.
She wasn't in there long.
"Ok Trixie, you behave and listen to your Aunt and Uncle," Luna said, "did you remember your insulin?"
"Yes mom," Trixie said, rolling her eyes and holding two insulin pens and her blood glucose meter. Nodding, Luna looked at her daughter a moment before going out the door.
"Sunset, may I have a slice of pizza?" Trixie asked.
"Uh, go ahead Trixie," Sunset answered.
Later that night after the CMC's had gone to sleep and Trixie had gone to the guest room, Cadence's old room, Sunset, Rarity and Applejack sat talking in Sunset's room.
"Looking forward to school on Monday Sunset?" Applejack asked.
"Huh," Sunset answered, "school, Monday?"
Sunset was trying to play it cool, but Rarity could see the panic in her friend's eyes.
"Is everything ok darling?" Rarity asked.
"Sure," Sunset answered, "everything's fine."
Rarity and Applejack could tell that Sunset was lying, but they chose not to say anything. There was a sudden burst of laughter from Scootaloo's room. Rarity got up to go check on the younger girls. When she entered Scootaloo's room, she found that the girls had set up a dart board with a well drawn picture of Sunset Shimmer as a demon taped to it and they were throwing darts at it.
"Sweetie Belle!" Rarity said.
"What," Sweetie Belle said, "it was Scoot's idea."
"Pffft, and if Scootaloo decided to jump off of a cliff would you?" Rarity said as she ripped the drawing off of the dart board.
"Um no-" Sweetie Belle started to say.
"It was a rhetorical question dear." Rarity stated as she walked out of Scootaloo's room and back into Sunset's.
"Make sure you have a snack in case you need it." Sunset was saying to Trixie as Rarity walked back in.
"I know," Trixie said holding up two packs of peanut butter crackers, "I also have a Gatorade in my bag."
"Goodnight Trixie." Sunset said.
That night passed rather uneventfully, as did the following Sunday, but as the day drew to a close, Sunset became more and more anxious about returning to school.
The empty hallways echoed strangely as Sunset walked through the school. She felt alone, but at the same time could feel the eyes of, something, watching her. She then saw Principle Celestia step out of one of the classrooms ahead of her. Sunset smiled. Then she noticed the blank stare on Celestia's eyes.
Wait, something is wrong. Why are Celestia's feet not touching the ground? Sunset thought. That's when the demon stepped out of the classroom, one of it's claws wrapped around Celestia's neck. The demon let go of Celestia and she fell to ground. Laughing the demon slowly turned and faced Sunset, stepping over Celestia, the demon began to walk toward Sunset...
Sunset woke up with tears running down her face. Her throat felt like it was on fire. Lightning flashed outside Sunset's bedroom window, it had started raining at some point during the night. Being careful not to make to much noise, Sunset got out of bed and went into the bathroom to get a drink of water.
"Damn, I need to get over these nightmares." Sunset whispered to her self as she went down the hall. She was startled to run into Celestia as she was coming out of the bathroom.
"Sunset," Celestia asked, "what are you doing up?"
"Couldn't sleep," Sunset said, rubbing the back of her neck, "I guess the thunderstorm woke me."
"More nightmares?" Celestia asked.
"How did you know?" Sunset answered.
"I'm psychic," Celestia said, placing a finger against her forehead, "seriously, I'm a high school principal and a mom, reading kids is what I do."
Sunset chuckled and tried no to look nervous. She knew that Celestia was only trying to look out for her, but Sunset was reluctant to get to close to her mentor's doppelganger. After a moment Sunset decided to say something.
"Oh to Hell with it," Sunset said, "I'm beginning to think that they aren't nightmares, but something else."
"What kind of something else?" Celestia asked.
"Wish I knew." Sunset answered.
"Why don't you tell me about it, Celestia said, kneeling down to look the girl in her eyes, "sometimes all we need is a second perspective."
Sunset proceeded to tell Celestia about all the nightmares she had had over the past week, and about her anxiety about returning to CHS in the morning. Celestia listened to Sunset intently, allowing the teen to completely finish before speaking.
"Sunset, I know that these nightmares are frightening, and I'm not an expert on interpreting dreams. Luna is the person who you may want to talk to about that," Celestia said, "but your past is not today, and you don't stand alone. You have five of the most caring and understanding girls at CHS looking out for you, plus you have myself and Discord."
"My past is not today?" Sunset whispered to herself. Somehow, no matter what world she was in, Celestia seemed to know exactly what Sunset needed to hear.
"Now why don't you go back to bed, you have to get ready for school in a few hours," Celestia said as she stood back up.
The rest of the night passed by uneventfully. After Sunset got dressed and reached for her leather jacket. It wasn't on the floor where she had left it.
"Celestia, have you seen my leather jacket?" Sunset asked as she entered the kitchen where Celestia and Discord sat drinking their morning coffee, and Scootaloo sat eating the latest sugar infused breakfast cereal.
"No I haven't," Celestia answered before looking at her husband, "have you, dear?"
"Not recently." Discord responded.
Sunset fixed her gaze on Scootaloo.
"What did you do with it?" Sunset asked the younger girl.
"Not a thing, though I wish I had." Scootaloo replied in a sing-song voice.
"GIRLS! We don't need this today." Celestia said with a tone in her voice that made Discord immediately leave the room, and caused the rest of the morning routine to be passed in silence. The ride to school was especially quiet.
Arriving at the school early, Sunset hesitated before following Celestia inside the building. Scootaloo meanwhile waited outside for her friends Applebloom and Sweetie Belle to show up.
Walking up to her locker, Sunset noticed that someone had written "SHE-DEMON" on it with a permanent marker. How original. Sunset thought sarcastically. She didn't notice that other students had begun to enter the school until she felt some one shove her hard enough from behind to make her smack her head on the locker and fall to the ground. Looking up she saw Trixie standing over her.
"My, my," Trixie said to no one in particular, "how the mighty have fallen!"
It was quiet enough to hear a pin drop. The silence was suddenly broken by a snicker that Sunset recognized as Scootaloo's. Sunset refused to stand back up, she just folded her arms over her knees and silently wept into them.
"Ah, look at the demon cry." some one taunted to the amusement of the students gathered around.
"What's going on here?" a voice that Sunset recognized as coming from Rainbow Dash asked, once again the corridor fell silent.
"Nothing." Trixie said as she walked away.
"Why I oughta-" Rainbow started to say.
"Oh let her go Sugarcube." Applejack said, crouching down next to Sunset, "are you ok hun?"
"Yeah, I don't think I'm ready to be here though," Sunset said indicating the school around her.
"I'm sure Principle Celestia knows what she's doin," Applejack said comfortingly. Applejack held out her hand and helped Sunset stand back up. Looking around for the first time, Sunset saw that Rainbow, Pinkie, Fluttershy and Rarity were standing around them having formed a barrier between Sunset and the rest if the student body. The look of fury in Rarity's eyes was particularly unsettling to anyone who looked at the teenage fashionista. Luckily for Sunset, she had at least one of her new friends in each of her classes. By the time lunch had rolled around none of the other students at CHS were trying to confront Sunset.
After school, Sunset sat outside Celestia's office doing her homework while she waited for Celestia to complete her day.
"Ready to go Sunset?" Celestia asked finally as she locked the door to her office.
Sunset nodded as she closed her chemistry book.
"Where is Scootaloo?" Sunset asked as they walked toward Celestia's truck.
"She is over at Sweet Apple Acres working on a history project with Applebloom," Celestia said, "looks like you have someone waiting for you."
Sunset looked from Celestia to where her car was parked. Sitting patiently on the curb was Rarity.
"Sunset, darling," Rarity said holding out a wrapped package towards Sunset, "this is yours, I'm sorry I took it with asking, but I know how much it meant to you."
Sunset cocked an eyebrow at Rarity before opening the package.
"My jacket," Sunset said, "you fixed it. I don't know what to say. Thank you, this is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me!"
Sunset sat on her bed idly strumming her guitar. She had opened a window to allow in fresh air, and she could hear Discord and Scootaloo playing a game of one-on-one basketball in the driveway. There was a gentle knock on her bedroom door. Looking up, she saw Celestia standing in the open doorway.
"May I come in?" Celestia asked.
"It's your house." Sunset answered. Celestia gave an exasperated sigh as she walked in and sat down on Sunset's bed.
"Want to tell me what happened today." Celestia said. Sunset looked at Celestia for a moment before speaking.
"You heard about what happened huh?" Sunset said.
"I'm psychic remember," Celestia answered with a laugh, "actually Applejack and Pinkie Pie came to see me after lunch."
"What'll happen to Trixie?" Sunset said.
"Oh, Luna is furious," Celestia replied, "after we discussed it, we decided to see how you wanted to handle it."
Sunset thought about that a moment.
"I wasn't hurt," Sunset said, "well except for my pride that is."
"So what do you want us to do?" Celestia asked again.
"Nothing," Sunset answered, "I'm gonna turn the other cheek. Punishing Trixie, even if you or Luna do it, will only make Trixie resent me more."
"That's very mature of you Sunset Shimmer," Celestia said as she stood up to leave, "you're already a vastly different person than you were two weeks ago."
The next morning started out like a normal morning in the Celestia-Discord household, Sunset and Scootaloo had found something petty to argue over.
"GIRLS," Celestia said sternly, "just once could we have a civil morning?"
"Sorry Scootaloo," Sunset said through clenched teeth.
"Ditto." Scootaloo grunted.
"So what does everyone have planned for today?" Discord asked to cut the tension.
"Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and I are working on our multi-media project this afternoon," Sunset stated.
"What subject is your project on?" Celestia asked.
"That's what we're trying to figure out,' Sunset answered, "Rainbow wants to do a video report on extreme sports like the street luge, but Fluttershy wants to do a short film about chinchillas."
"I'm trying out for the junior basketball team today." Scootaloo said proudly.
"Good luck, Luna can be a tough coach," Celestia told Scootaloo, "I have to start planning this years musical showcase."
Later that morning, Sunset had arrived at CHS with Celestia, Scootaloo had opted to take the bus. Sunset noticed that her locker had been the recipient of a fresh coat of paint. I wonder how long this will last. As she was getting the books that she needed for her morning classes when she felt the presence of someone hovering nearby. Closing her locker she looked up to see Trixie leaning against the locker next to hers.
"What do you want Trixie?" Sunset sighed.
"The great and powerful Trixie is under orders from her mother to apologize to you," Trixie said in a rather grand manner, "consider yourself apologized to."
Sunset watched Trixie walk away. What in the nine levels of Tartarus just happened?
"What did she want?" Rainbow asked from behind Sunset.
"She was apologizing for yesterday," Sunset replied, "we still on for this afternoon?"
"Yeah, we're gonna meet at Fluttershy's house after school to plan out our project," Rainbow answered, "see you at lunch?"
"Yeah," Sunset said as she watched Rainbow walk away. Sunset walked to her first class, she was the first student to arrive. She took her usual seat and waited as her classmates slowly arrived. Most of the gave her a wide berth and chose to sit away from her, all of them except a certain pink-haired party planner.
"Good morning Sunset." Pinkie said as she took a seat next to her.
"Hey Pinkie." Sunset answered.
"Sunset could you help me with my homework," Pinkie said, "I completed it, but I'm no happy with my answers."
"Sure, let's see what you got," Sunset said, "Pinkie are you ok?"
Pinkie appeared to be... vibrating?
"Whoa, that was a doozy" Pinkie said, "someone is talking about me."
Little did Pinkie Pie know, but she was only half right. In another classroom across campus, Rarity and Applejack were engrossed in a quiet conversation.
"Are ya sure that this ain't like that thing that happened with that Trenderhoof feller when we were in eighth grade?" Applejack was saying.
"Pffft, I'm positive darling," Rarity answered, "I've made a few, ahem, discoveries about myself since then."
"But what about what happened to ya before and during the Spring Fling last year?" Applejack argued.
"The road to forgiveness has to begin somewhere." Rarity countered.
"Rarity," Applejack said, "if this is truly what ya want, I won't stop y'all, just don't get hurt."
The following day after school, Fluttershy and Sunset left the Student Media Center after working on their project, Rainbow Dash had been absent from school that day with a fever.
"Oh, I hope Rainbow is okay," Fluttershy said softly.
"Me too, she didn't sound to good when I called her," Sunset agreed. As the two girls turned the corner, Sunset saw the part of the hallway where she had confronted Twilight in the days before the Fall Formal. The first thing Sunset noticed was how dark that part of the hallway was. Maybe I should mention it to Celestia, Sunset thought. The second thing she noticed was the sound of voices coming from around the corner.
"She lives with the She-Demon!" one voice exclaimed, "how do we know she isn't one herself!"
"Yeah, she doesn't deserve to be on the basketball team!" another agreed. Rounding the corner, Sunset and Fluttershy saw that two boys from the basketball team, Hoops and Shortstop, had backed Scootaloo into a corner and had her in tears.
"I say we giver her message that she'll never forget!" Hoops said as he clenched his fist and reached out to grab Scootaloo with his other hand.
"What in the name of Nightmare Moon are you doing!" Sunset exclaimed as she grabbed Hoops by the shoulder. Spinning around, Hoops came face to face with Sunset.
"Oh look," Hoops said, "its the She-Demon and her little minion."
"One." Sunset said. Both Fluttershy's and Scootaloo's eyes went wide.
"One? What is this algebra?" Shortstop chortled.
"Two." Sunset replied.
"I've had enough of this bitch thinking she can run this school." Hoops said as he moved to punch Sunset in the face.
"THREE!" Sunset cried as she caught Hoops fist in her hand and in one solid motion twisted his arm around and had his index finger securely in her grip. Hoops face went pale as a look of pain washed over him. Sunset released him after about thirty seconds. Hoops held onto his hand as he fled, Shortstop following close behind.
"Sunset, what did you do?" Fluttershy asked, "break his finger?"
"No, I could have," Sunset said, "I started to dislocate it."
"That was awesome!" Scootaloo said as she stared at her foster sister.
"Let's just keep this between us," Sunset said, "last thing we need is for Celestia or Luna to hear of this."
"Ahem!" a familiar voice exclaimed. The three girls turned to see Luna and Sweetie Belle standing about six feet behind them. Sweetie looked like she had seen a ghost, or more accurately, a she-demon.
"Ms. Shy, Ms. Belle," Luna said sternly, "you two are free to go, I would like a word with my nieces however. My office, NOW!"
Both Fluttershy and Sweetie Belle winced as they backed away. Sunset and Scootaloo both looked at each other with dread. They followed Luna in silence, neither girl looked at the other or other students as they went.
Trixie looked up from her smart phone as Sunset and Scootaloo followed Luna into her office.
"Trixie, dear," Luna said to her daughter with a motherly tone, "could you wait outside for a moment while I talk to Sunset and Scootaloo."
"Yes ma'am," Trixie answered, though she was looking at Sunset and Scootaloo. She could tell that Scootaloo had been crying and that Sunset was furious.
Luna waited for Trixie to leave and for the door to close.
"I witnessed to whole thing," Luna began, "Sweetie Belle came and got me when Hoops and Shortstop cornered you."
Sunset tried to make herself smaller.
"I'm suspended again, aren't I." Sunset said.
"If you suspend Sunset, then you should suspend Hoops!" Scootaloo said.
"Were you really trying to break his finger?" Luna asked.
"I could have," Sunset answered, knowing that she was incriminating herself, "if I had wanted too."
Luna looked at her for a moment.
"Where did you learn that?" Luna asked. Sunset looked at Luna and Scootaloo be fore hanging her head on defeat and letting out a sigh.
"When I first came to this world, before Celestia adopted me, I quickly learned that there were people who enjoy preying upon children," Sunset said as Scootaloo looked at Sunset with a look of shock, "I made it a priority to learn how to protect myself."
"Oh Sunset," Luna said in near whisper.
"I read books on martial arts from the library," Sunset continued, "and anatomy books also proved educational."
"Did you ever have to use those skills?" Luna asked.
"A few times," Sunset answered, "I'm truly thankful that Celestia and Discord took me in, I'd likely be dead otherwise-!"
Sunset was shocked as Luna came around her desk and gave Sunset a hug, what was even more surprising was that Scootaloo joined in the hug as well.
"Sunset do I need to notify Celestia and get you some counseling?" Luna asked as she released Sunset. Sunset could see that the older woman had been crying.
"What," Sunset asked confused, then she realized what Luna was implying, "I was lucky, I wasn't raped. I don't need counseling."
"If you're sure." Luna answered. There was a knock on the door. After a moment Celestia entered her sister's office with a look of concern on her face.
"Trixie told me that Sunset and Scootaloo are in here," Celestia said looking at the two girls, "I have asked you girls repeatedly to stop fighting."
"They weren't fighting," Luna answered, "in fact Sunset stopped some bullies from attacking Scootaloo."
Celestia looked at Luna, the, at Sunset, and finally at Scootaloo who only nodded.
"Who?" Celestia asked looking back at Luna.
"I'm handling it," Luna said, "you have nothing to worry about."
"Okay," Celestia sighed.
"Now why don't you three go home, I'll close up the school," Luna said, "Sunset, I want you to tell Celestia and Discord what we talked about."
Sunset looked at Luna nervously.
"If you don't, I will," Luna warned, "they have every right to know."
Celestia looked at Sunset expectedly.
"And YOU," Luna said looking at Celestia with a face that scare a Marine Corps drill instructor, "listen to what she has to say and try not to over react."
Sunset was understandably nervous. She sat on her bed thinking of what she would say. She knew that both Celestia and Discord were waiting for her downstairs, she just wasn't sure how to explain it to them. She felt a pair of arms wrap around her. Scootaloo was giving her a hug again. She hadn't even noticed the younger girl come in.
"Scoots?" Sunset asked confused.
"You looked scared," Scootaloo said, "Celestia and Discord need to know what happened, Luna's right."
"But what if they decide that they don't want anything to with me?" Sunset said.
"They aren't like that," Scootaloo answered, "they gave both of us a home, we might not be family yet, but we're working on it."
Sunset looked at Scootaloo and sighed.
"You're right," Sunset said, "I haven't acted like a member of this family have I?"
"You aren't alone." Scootaloo answered standing up and taking Sunsets hand, "I could have been better."
Scootaloo started to pull Sunset towards the stairs leading to the living room. Might as well get this over with, Sunset thought.
In the living the two girls found both Celestia and Discord seated on the couch already wearing their pyjamas. Celestia had her feet tucked under her with her head on Discord's shoulder. Celestia looked up as Sunset and Scootaloo entered and took a seat.
"Celestia, Discord, there is something I have, no, need to tell you," Sunset began before telling them what had happened earlier that day and everything she had told Luna. Celestia looked shocked. Discord was harder to read. At first he seemed calm, but slowly, all three women present saw a fire ignite in his eyes.
"Someone tried to hurt my girls." Discord said quietly.
"Scoots is ok, and I learned how to deal with people like that," Sunset answered quickly, she hoped that no one could see how nervous she felt. She wished that the A/C would kick on.
"Sunset," Celestia replied before Discord could answer, "no one, child or adult, should have to deal with that... Discord, who are you calling at this hour?"
Discord had his cell phone out. Even though he designed video game for a living, he insisted on using an archaic flip phone.
"Shining Armor," Discord answered, "I know that he'll help me get rid of the bodies."
Celestia snatched the phone out of Discord's hand.
"None of that now," Celestia said in a no nonsense tone.
"Yes Kay-Kay," Discord answered.
"Sunset do you want to get counseling," Celestia said, "I think you should, but I won't force you into anything."
Sunset looked around the room and though about Celestia's offer. The only sound that could be heard for a little over a minute was the tick-tock of the clock mounted over the fireplace. Finally Sunset looked at Celestia.
"No mom," Sunset said, "I've been dealing with it on my own for so long, and now I have something I didn't have before."
"What's that?" Scootaloo asked.
"Friends," Sunset answered looking at the younger girl, "and more importantly, a family."
The next morning, the first thing that Celestia noticed was that it was much quieter in the house than was normally the case. Looking into the kitchen, she saw both Sunset and Scootaloo seated at the counter eating cereal, and Sunset was helping Scootaloo with her homework.
"Good morning girls," Celestia said as she entered the kitchen, "any plans today?"
"Basketball practice." Scootaloo answered.
"Are you sure you still want to do that even after what happened yesterday?" Celestia asked.
"I can't be afraid of those bullies all the time," Scootaloo said, "plus I have Rainbow Dash and an awesome big sister to look out for me."
"I'm glad to hear it," Celestia said, "what about you Sunset?"
"After school, the girls and I are going to visit Rainbow Dash," Sunset replied, "she wants to put together a band for the Showcase."
*****
Sunset sat at one of the picnic tables in front of CHS waiting for her friends to arrive. She noticed that most of the students that passed her by were giving her sour looks. Instead of worrying about that she watched Scootaloo practice some tricks on her scooter.
"Mornin' Sunset," Applejeck said derailing Sunset's train of thought, "did ya really break Hoops finger?"
Sunset looked at Applejack, Pinkie Pie was standing with her.
"What!?! No," Sunset exclaimed, "I didn't even dislocate it. If anything is will be sore for a few days."
"Well I believe that he deserved worse," Rarity said as she walked up, "going after Scootaloo like that!"
"How did you hear about that?" Sunset asked the girls, "Fluttershy and Sweetie Belle were the only other people there."
"Well, Sweetie told me," Rarity answered.
"It's all over MyStable," Pink said, "haven't you logged in?"
"I haven't used MyStable since the fall formal." Sunset answered.
"That's probably a good thing," Applejack said, "people have been sayin' some pretty hurtful stuff towards ya on yer page."
Sunset pulled out her phone and logged in to MyStable and immediately began reading the comments on her page. Most of them were the kind she expected, calling her a she-demon or a bitch, a few however really go to her. Particularly the comments targeting Scootaloo and Trixie.
"My my, look at what the entire school thinks of you. Oh even Flash Sentry left you comment. Such language." Sunset heard the familiar voice of her demon self say soothingly inside her head.
"Oh dear," Fluttershy said as she walked up and saw Sunset trying not to cry. Rarity sat down next to Sunset and wrapped her arms around her.
"There, there darling," Rarity said.
Sunset shut off her phone, she knew she was stronger than this. She had to be. She looked at her friends. With their help she could overcome the darkness that she was certain was still inside of her, waiting for an opportunity to escape.
"So do you guys have any idea what Rainbowlicous wants to see us about after school?" Pinkie asked.
"Ain't she still sick?" Applejack asked.
"Oh, um, I spoke to her last night and her fever had broke," Fluttershy said quietly, "her mom is just keeping her home today so she can get an extra day of rest."
"I'm glad she's feeling better, she didn't sound so good when I spoke to her yesterday afternoon." Sunset said.
"Most likely she wants to talk about the band." Applejack said.
"Oh," Sunset said, her friends hadn't asked her to join the band.
Nobody said anything to Scootaloo about the fact that she lived with the She-demon. At least, not to her face. She could hear the whispered accusations, and the snickering behind her back. She could feel the hateful glares her fellow students gave her when she wasn't looking. It was like they blamed her for what had happened to Hoops. Both Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle had tried to convince that she was imagining all of it. But they hadn't read the anonymous emails she had received, the ones that compared her to Sunset. That very afternoon, when she had gone to retrieve her books from her locker after lunch, she had found a crude drawing of her riding her scooter, only she had a demonic look in the drawing. Scootaloo had thrown the picture away before storming off. She had wandered the halls of CHS aimlessly until she realized that she was late for class.
When she arrived at her class, she apologized to Mr. Doodle for being late, and took her seat in the back of the classroom. She could hear everyone's snickering. She could feel Diamond Tiara glaring at her.
Scootaloo wasn't sure how she had made through class, but as she was packing up to head to her next class, she overheard Diamond Tiara talking to her friend Silver Spoon, and anybody else who would listen.
"I mean," Diamond Tiara was saying, "if I lived with a known demon, I would perform an exorcism, unless she is afraid that she would be exorcised as well."
This caused Silver Spoon and several others to laugh out loud. Scootaloo shouldered her way past the group, hoping that no one could see the tears streaming down her face. Unfortunately, somebody did notice.
"Awe," Silver Spoon teased, "is the mini-demon crying?"
That was the last straw, Scootaloo dropped her backpack and took off running down the hall, shoving other students out of her way. As she ran, Scootaloo didn't have a destination in mind, she just wanted to get away. Eventually, Scootaloo found herself in an empty and neglected classroom full of old desks. Quietly, Scootaloo sank down to her knees and wept.
"I'm not a demon!" Scootaloo cried into her arms.
Unknown to her, she had been followed.
*****
At first Celestia wasn't concerned when Scootaloo was reported absent to one of her afternoon classes, punctuality had never been the girls strong suit. But when both of her last two classes both reported Scootaloo absent, Celestia was worried. Punctuality may not of been Scootaloo's thing, but she had never skipped class before. When Celestia tried calling her youngest daughters cellphone, only rang before going to voice mail. Stepping out of her office, she saw that Luna had already left for the day. Then she heard the voices of Sunset and her friends in the hall. Celestia looked and saw the six girls, plus Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Twist.
"Girls," Celestia asked worriedly after getting their attention, "have any of you seen Scootaloo after lunch today?"
Almost all of them either shook their heads no, or said that they hadn't.
"Mith Thlethtia," Twist said raising her hand, " I thaw her run out of Mithter Doodle'th math cloth. I tried to catch her and thee what wath the matter but thee watch to fatht."
"Thank you Twist," Celestia said putting a gentle hand on the girl's shoulder, "did you happen to see where the went?"
"No," Twist said as she shook her head, "thee didn't look like thee knew where thee wath going. Thee kept puthing other kidth out of her way."
Sunset pulled out her phone and dialed a number. They heard ringing come from a nearby locker.
"That's Scootaloo's locker," Sweetie Belle confirmed, "it's right next to mine."
"Well, that didn't work." Sunset said as she hung up her phone.
"I already tried that Sunset," Celestia said, the tones of worry starting to creep back into her voice.
"Let's search the school," Rainbow said, "hopefully my little buddy is nearby."
Her friends nodded. Celestia looked like she was on the verge of a panic attack.
"Sunset, darling, why don't you stay here and do what you can for Principal Celestia." Rarity said. Sunset nodded and led Celestia to one of the plush chairs in the office waiting room.
"There, there, mom," Sunset said comfortingly, "they'll find her."
Celestia silently nodded. She hoped that Scootaloo was ok.
*****
Scootaloo didn't hear the door open. She nearly screamed when she felt a hand on her back. Looking up she saw Trixie kneeling down next to her.
"Trixie?" Scootaloo said startled.
"Are you alright Scootaloo?" Trixie asked, "why are you upset?"
"Upset," Scootaloo said, "what makes you think I'm upset?"
"Um, I followed you here," Trixie said, "and when I came by after school you were still sitting hear crying."
Scootaloo looked at her cousin, sure Trixie could be arrogant and self centered, but she always did care for her family.
"People are calling me a she-demon because I live with Sunset." Scootaloo answered.
Trixie looked at Scootaloo before smiling.
"Scoots, you aren't a she-demon," Trixie said, "you may have a temper, but look at who your dad is so.."
Scootaloo laughed.
"Look what I am saying," Trixie continued, "is that you are different from Sunset. You two aren't the same person, and you definitely don't need to live in her shadow.
"Thanks Trixie," Scootaloo said, "you really are great and powerful."
"Don't you forget it," Trixie said with a grin, "now I'm sure that your mom is worried about you."
"Everywhere except the north wing," Rarity said, "but aren't those old classrooms only used for storage nowadays."
"Lets head back ta Celestia and Sunset," Apple Jack said, "we'll need the keys of we are ta search the north wing."
As the girls approached the office, they noticed Trixie and Scootaloo approaching from the opposite direction.
"Scootaloo!" they all cried out when they saw her, causing both Sunset and Celestia to come out of the office. Nobody said a word as Celestia knelt down and embraced Scootaloo.
Sunset pulled herself out of the crater. Twilight Sparkle wasn't there. Instead she found herself looking into the eyes of the monster she was, or had been. Thick fog encircled the lawn and the school. Off in the distance, Sunset could the crash of thunder.
"My, my," the demon said, "isn't this familiar."
"What," Sunset said confused, "why do you keep bringing me back here?"
"I'm not taking you anywhere," the demon said in a soft voice, "you keep bringing us here."
"I brought us here?" Sunset said, "why?"
"You know the answer to that question," the demon responded.
"Just what it it you want with me?" Sunset asked.
"What do I want," the demon snarled, "I want to be free of you. You have become a ball and chain Sunset Shimmer! Once you were strong and none dared to challenge you, but now, you are weak, and the carrion eaters are already moving in."
Looking around, Sunset could see dark shadows in the shapes of monsters crouching atop Canterlot High like medieval gargoyles on an ancient cathedral. No two looked alike, and now they stared at her silently with soulless predatory eyes. Slowly the fog began to clear and the morning sun began to peak over the horizon.
"You are no longer alone Sunset Shimmer," a voice cried from nowhere. Sunset thought that for a moment she saw a figure in white standing in the rising Sun.
Sunset woke up. It had been a dream. The midmorning sun shone through her bedroom windows. She looked at her phone. It was Saturday. Sunset got up and headed to the kitchen.
She found Celestia, Discord and Cadence in the dining room looking at wedding catalogs.
"She has awoken," Discord said dramatically to Celestia's and Cadence's amusement.
"Must get coffee," Sunset grumbled through gritted teeth as she poured herself a cup in the largest mug she could find.
"She hasn't changed," Cadence laughed, "why don't you just drink it straight from the pot?"
"Can I do that," Sunset answered. Discord laughed.
"No," Celestia said, "Cadence, stop filling her head with such ideas."
"But mom!" both Cadence and Sunset said in unison before they were both reduced to fits of giggling. Discord could no longer control himself.
"Oh it's a good thing you two really aren't sisters," Discord managed to say between fits of laughter, "you two would be dangerous if you got your act together! BWHAHAHAHAHA!"
"Well, now that you've broken my husband," Celestia said with a straight face, "any plans for today Sunset?"
"Not really, I thought I'd help Scoots with the song she and her friends are going to play at the Showcase," Sunset said.
"Scootaloo left for Sweetie Belle's house an hour ago." Celestia said, "oh, Sunset before I forget, there are some new students transferring to CHS this week. Would you mind showing them around?"
"Sure," Sunset answered, "not a problem."
After drinking her coffee and devouring a pack of Pop-Tarts, Sunset returned to her room while Celestia and Cadence went through wedding catalogs. When Sunset's phone began to go off it startled her.
"Hello," Sunset said into her phone, "oh, hey Rarity, what's up... Sure I'd love to go see a movie and grab a bite afterwards... I'm free right now actually. Ok see you in an hour at the Cineplex."
Sunset got dressed and grabbed the messenger bag she used in place of a purse.
"Mom," Sunset said as she went downstairs, "I'm going to go see a movie with the girls, and we're planning on getting a bite afterwards, I should be home around dinner."
Celestia looked at the clock above the fireplace, and then looked at Sunset.
"Be home no later than seven," Celestia said.
"Yes ma'am," Sunset said as she walked out the door. Since it was such a beautiful day, Sunset decided to walk to the Canterlot Cineplex. It wasn't far. Rarity was standing in the shade just outside the door to the Cineplex when Sunset arrived.
"Hey, Rarity," Sunset said as she walked up, "where are the girls, are they already inside?"
"No," Rarity said. Sunset thought that Rarity seemed nervous.
"Oh are they running late," Sunset asked looking at her watch.
"No," Rarity said, "I thought that maybe the two of us could hang out, if you wanted to."
"That sounds like fun," Sunset said, she didn't understand why Rarity seemed so nervous, "so which movie are we gonna see?"
"Well I am partial to horror films," Rarity answered. Sunset's eyes lit up.
"Done! Let's go," Sunset said grabbing Rarity's hand and leading her the ticket booth. After both girls purchased their tickets and refreshments they made their way to the theater that their movie was playing in. The theater was mostly empty when the girls got inside. They selected two seats in the center of the theater. Rarity kept sneaking looks at Sunset when she thought Sunset wasn't looking. Once the movie started, Rarity graves onto Sunset's hand. This confused Su set at first, but halfway through the movie Sunset began to suspect something. She gave Rarity's hand a firm squeeze, and was not surprised or disappointed when Rarity squeezed her hand back. When the movie ended, they walked out of the theater still holding hands.
"So, Rarity," Sunset asked, "where do you wanna go now?"
Rarity looked around and saw the Coinky-Dink Dinner.
"Ice cream?" Rarity asked.
"Only if you let me pay for it." Sunset answered.
After the two girls were shown to a booth they were greeted by a bright pink blur.
"Hey Sunset, hey Rarity," Pinkie said, "what can I get you?"
Sunset looked over the menu briefly before answering.
"Pinkie can we get large Sundae for two?" Sunset said.
"Coming right up." Pinkie said before bouncing off to get her two friends their sundae.
So, Rarity, I have to ask," Sunset said while they waited for Pinkie to bring them their sundae, "is this a date?"
Rarity didn't answer right way. She was about to when Pinkie returned with their sundae and a pair of spoons. Looking at the sundae, Rarity noticed that Pinkie had arranged the cherries into the shape of a heart. She looked up at Pinkie, but she was already bouncing off to help her next customer.
"Am I really that transparent?" Rarity asked trying to avoid Sunset's beautiful eyes. Sunset took Rarity's hand into her own.
"Rarity," Sunset said, "I've had a wonderful time, and I'd love to keep going out with you."
Rarity didn't know what to say. She had been prepared for Sunset to reject her, she hadn't thought that her dream would come true!
Later that evening after her first date with Rarity, Sunset was eating dinner with her family; Celestia, Discord, Scootaloo, and Cadence.
"Girls," Celestia asked, "how your days go?"
"Awesome," Scootaloo said first, " Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and are are writing a song for the Showcase."
"I can't wait to here it." Celestia said with a smile, "how was your day Sunset?"
"I'mdatingRarity!" Sunset blurted out. The silence that followed was deafening.
Nobody had said a word for nearly five minutes. Of this Sunset was certain, she had been counting the seconds as the clock over the fireplace ticked away.
"Say what," Scootaloo said first, dropping her spoon into her soup.
"I'm happy for you dear," Celestia said, "but when did this happen?"
"Today," Sunset said meekly.
"Details!" Cadence exclaimed in a sing song voice, giving Sunset a sly grin. Sunset proceeded to tell them about her day.
"A horror movie, really," Scootaloo said with a cocked eyebrow.
"Discord took me to see horror films all the time when were dating." Celestia countered.
"To be fair, we were dating at the height of the 80's horror craze," Discord said.
"You're dating my best friend's SISTER," Scootaloo said. She was having trouble wrapping her mind around Sunset had said. Everyone else had gotten over their initial shock at Sunset's statement.
*****
Sunset and Rarity were having a quiet picnic lunch in the park. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, everything was perfect. Sunset lay with her head in Rarity's lap while Rarity was playing with Sunset's hair and telling Sunset about the latest fashion trends.
The sky began to darken, and Sunset thought she could hear thunder. Slowly, the thunder became laughter. Sunset looked around. Rarity seemed oblivious to what was going on around them, but Sunset could see that they were being approached by several faceless men in black suits.
"Run Sunset," a voice sang in her mind, "they're coming for you..."
Sunset began to run. She had to get away, she had no idea what would happen to her if they caught her. Again dark fog rolled in and surrounded her erasing Rarity and the park from existence. She could feel them watching her, like a predators stalking they're prey. A figure stepped out of the fog. It had leathery wings, it's hair was made of fire, and it's eyes were as black as ink. Sunset found herself face to face with her demon.
"At last," the demon said excitedly, "I can claim what is rightfully mine!"
"She doesn't belong to you!" a new voice called from the void. Sunset looked around for the source of the voice, but found nothing.
"And what are you going to do about it," the demon asked, "unknowingly or not, she still signed a contract!"
"You know it doesn't work that way," The voice responded. Sunset now saw an orb of pure light form between her and the demon.
"So," the demon said, as her hands and arms twisted into flesh and bone scythes, "you have decided to show yourself!"
With that the demon lunged at the orb, Sunset was afraid to watch, but she found that she couldn't look away. There was the sound of clanging and twisting metal. The orb had taken on a more human like appearance, though Sunset couldn't make out any features like a face. In each hand the orb/person/angel, Sunset really wasn't sure anymore, held a sword also made of pure light. The demon had a look of shock on its face.
"What," the demon exclaimed, "you aren't supposed to have this kind of power!"
The being made of light didn't answer, instead it swung one of the swords at the demon. It missed, but it caused the demon to take a step back.
"No matter," the demon said, "I doubt you can stay like this long."
"Sunset," the being of light said, "I can't hold her off forever, make your escape now!"
With that Sunset saw a thin line of light pierce the fog and swing open like a doorway. Sunset felt drawn to the door. Sunset began to walk towards the door as if she was in a trance. She stepped through the door.
*****
Sunset found herself standing in the lawn in front of the house she lived in. It was the middle of the night. Sunset could feel the damp grass on her bare feet. She stared up looking at the stars. She was confused she had no idea how she had gotten outside, or how long she had been standing there. She heard a commotion behind her.
"Sunset," Celestia said, "what are you doing out here?"
"I- I don't know," Sunset said, shaking her head trying to clear it, "I was sleeping when I had a dream, and I woke up standing here."
"Great, she's sleepwalking now," Scootaloo said from the doorway leading back into the house. Celestia gave her younger daughter a look that would of caused hell to freeze over.
"Scootaloo, back to bed," Celestia said, "Sunset, we're going back inside, and you are going to have a mug of hot chocolate and tell me and Discord what happened."
As they went back into the house none of them noticed the demonic footprints burned into the asphalt in the street in front of the house.
Once inside, Sunset recalled what she could and told Celestia and Discord. Then, on Celestia's advice Sunset went to take a shower.
"What are we going to do?" Celestia asked, looking at her husband.
"I'm still trying to figure out how she didn't break her neck," Discord said, pointing at the stairs that led up to where everyone's bedrooms were, "those steps are steep."
"And how did she open the front door without setting off the alarm, its still set, I checked." Celestia said.
When Sunset got out of the shower she wiped the condensation that had formed on the mirror off. She looked at her reflection. What stared back at her wasn't her.
What stared back at Sunset wasn't Sunset. it wasn't the demon either. Sunset found herself looking someone that almost looked like her but was different in several ways. The first thing Sunset noticed was that the girl had hair the same color as hers it was straight and tied back in ponytail. The second thing Sunset noticed was that her eyes were a dark blue, while Sunset's were a cyan. Sunset rubbed her eyes, convinced that her mind was playing tricks on her. Nope, the girl in the mirror was still there. The girl in the mirror held up her finger in front of her lips as if to tell Sunset to be quiet.
"MOM!" Sunset yelled. The girl in the mirror seemed to dissolve away, leaving only Sunset's true reflection behind. Celestia burst into the bathroom obviously concerned about her daughter.
"Sunset, what's wrong?" Celestia asked looking at her daughter. Sunset pointed at the mirror.
"There was someone in the mirror," Sunset said as she proceeded to describe what she had seen reflected in the mirror. Celestia was in a state of shock, Sunset had described her deceased daughter, Sunrise.
"Sunset, You couldn't have seen Sunrise, she passed away when she was eight years old," Celestia said, "What you are describing is impossible."
"I know what I saw," Sunset said. Celestia thought a moment.
"Sunset, get dressed, then meet me in my office downstairs." Celestia said.
Sunset did as she was asked. he hesitated outside the door to Celestia's home office though. The room had always been Celestia's sanctuary, and Sunset had never been in the room in all the years that she had lived with Celestia and Discord. After a moment Sunset knocked on the door to the office.
"Come in," Celestia said. Sunset opened the door and quietly entered the room. Looking around she saw several picture of her, Scootaloo and Cadence. There was a set of bookshelves that entirely dominated one wall, another wall had a big screen T.V. mounted to it. next to the T.V. was a high school letterman jacket. Sunset's eyes came to rest on a framed photo on Celestia's desk. The photo showed a younger version of the girl that Sunset had seen in the mirror. Sunset picked up the picture frame.
"This is the girl I saw," Sunset said, "I'm not sure how it is possible, but I swear to Tartarus, that this is who I saw."
Celestia took the picture from Sunset and looked at it before putting it back on her desk.
"She looks just like me." Sunset said after a tense pause.
"Sunset," Celestia said, "Sunrise died eight years ago. What you say you saw is impossible."
"Magical unicorn from an alternate reality remember," Sunset deadpanned.
"Okay, I'll admit that some things that I believed were impossible aren't," Celestia said, "but how could Sunrise appear to you in a mirror."
"I don't know," Sunset said.
"Moving on," Celestia said, she wanted to change the subject from Sunrise, "how did you end up on the front lawn?"
"I don't know," Sunset answered, "I went to sleep in my bed and woke up standing in the lawn. What's wrong with me?"
"Oh Sunset," Celestia said as she wrapped her arms around her daughter, " you've been through a traumatic experience and you're trying to cope on your own."
"You're one of the toughest and smartest students I have ever had," Celestia continued, "you may have been a bully in the past, and there are people who will judge you for that no matter what you do. But if you are committed to being a better person, then I believe you deserve a second chance."
There was a paused Celestia allowed her words to sink in.
"Sunset," Celestia said, "I never asked, but did you know what you would become when you put Twilight's crown on your head?"
"What, no," Sunset said, "I thought that I could control the magic that the crown contained, but the Elements found me unworthy."
Then Sunset remembered some thing the demon had said, I unknowingly signed a contract, Sunset had studied magical contracts when she had been Princess Celestia's student. What have i done?
"Sunset, are you alright," Celestia said, "I lost you for a moment."
"Yeah, I'm fine," Sunset lied, I need to talk to Twilight, but the portal is going to be closed for another twenty-nine moons. What am I going to do?
Celestia knew that Sunset was lying, but she knew that Sunset was stubborn enough that she wouldn't be able to pry what was bothering her out of her. Sunset would tell what was wrong when she was ready.
"How did Sunrise die?" Sunset asked, "I never asked."
"She got a bad fever that the doctors could bring down," Celestia said, "you would have liked her, she was always doing her own thing. And she was very competitive. She would likely challenge Rainbow Dash to any and every sport. She was Trixie's best friend and protector."
"She sounds amazing," Sunset said, "I wish I could have met her."
"Even at her young age she had a rebellious streak," Celestia replied, "like you."
Sunset yawned.
"I'm going to try to go back to sleep," Sunset said as she stood up, "thanks for listening."
"Of course Sunset, " Celestia said, "just try to stay in the house this time."
Sunset forced a laugh before turning and exiting the room. As she walked up the stairs she couldn't keep her mind off what the demon had said, or the repercussions of such a contract. Sunset spent the rest of the night and most of the following day scouring the internet for any information that this world had on magical demonic contracts, but all she could find was information about exorcisms.
"Sometimes," Sunset sighed, "I wish that magic really did exist in this world."
Celestia found herself in an empty house. She recognized it as her house. The house was dark and quiet. She silently went from room to room checking on the occupants of her home. She couldn't find anyone. She heard a voice laughing outside. As she passed the clock above the fireplace, she didn't notice it chime thirteen times. Stepping out the door and onto her lawn she saw Sunset standing inside a ring of fire with her back to her.
"Sunset," Celestia called out. The girl turned. The first thing Celestia noticed was her eyes. The eyes that looked over Celestia didn't belong to Sunset. They were black and devoid of a soul. Sunset grinned an unnatural grin, exposing rows of needle like teeth. Sunset began to walk toward Celestia...
"Begone foul demon of the abyss!" Celestia said in voice that wasn't her own.
Celestia sat up. Her bedroom was dark. The light of the full moon provided enough illumination that she could see her husband asleep beside her. Grabbing her robe, Celestia decided to check on Sunset and Scootaloo. Scootaloo had fallen asleep watching extreme sports on TV in her room. As she neared the door to Sunset's room she noticed that there was a light in the room. Opening the door she found that the lamp on Sunset's bedside table was on, and that Sunset had fallen asleep reading a book from the local library. Celestia looked at the books tittle as she turned off Sunset's lamp.
"Exorcisms for Dummies" was the book's tittle.
*****
Sunset sat at one of the picnic tables in front of CHS. She was waiting for her friends to arrive and school to start. While she was waiting she allowed her mind to analyze everything she new about magical contracts to find a way to get her out of it. The largest problem was that she didn't know the terms of her contract. A pair of arms wrapping around brought her back to reality.
"Good morning you," Rarity said as she planted a kiss on Sunsets cheek.
"Hey yourself," Sunset said as she smiled and returned the embrace and kiss.
"So romantic," Sweetie Belle cooed from nearby.
"Uhg," Scootaloo cringed, "maybe when I'm older I'll understand."
"I'm older and I'm sure don't want to understand," Rainbow Dash said from behind Rarity. Without looking, Rarity raised her arm in Rainbow's direction and made a very unladylike gesture involving the middle finger of one's hand. This caused Sunset and Rainbow to laugh.
"Pinkie don't." Sunset said, Pinkie looked at Sunset in confusion.
"I think its cute." Fluttershy said.
The first bell rang signifying that the girls had five minutes to get to class.
"See you at lunch," Sunset said to Rarity as she gave her girlfriend a kiss.
"Get a room you two," Rainbow said, laughing at her own wit.
"AJ would you do the honors" Rarity said. Not looking at Rainbow.
*WHACK*
"OW! Hey!" Rainbow cried rubbing the back of her head.
"Thank you," Rarity said.
"Anytime Sugarcube." Applejack replied with a chuckle.
"Oh, I wrote a song for the band," Fluttershy said as they all went inside for class, "maybe we can play it during the showcase."
"I can't wait to hear it Flutters," Rainbow said.
The morning seemed to drag along for Sunset. No matter how hard she tried she couldn't get what the demon had said about contracts or the strange appearance of Sunrise out of her head. Shortly after Sunset sat down with her friends at lunch, Principal Celestia approached her.
"Sunset," Celestia said, "I need to take Scootaloo to a doctor's appointment after school, so Discord will be picking you up."
"Ok," Sunset said.
"What's wrong with Scootaloo," Rainbow asked.
"Nothing, just a physical for the basketball team," Celestia answered.
"Did anyone else notice that Principal Celestia, seemed, a little, off," Fluttershy asked her friends one their principal had walked away.
"A little, maybe," Applejack answered, the others just silently nodded.
"Ooh, ooh," Pinkie exclaimed, "maybe Principal Celestia had a bad dream, I mean what if the demon that has been tormenting Sunset since the Fall Formal, now tormenting Principal Celestia! We could all be next."
"Uh huh," Rainbow said, "no more late night chocolate milkshakes for Pinkie."
None of the girls noticed that Sunset seemed to sink into her seat, as if she was trying to hide, well, almost no one.
After lunch, Sunset found herself in Study Hall with Rarity.
"Darling, is everything alright," Rarity asked.
"Yeah, maybe... I don't know," Sunset said and then proceeded to tell Rarity about her last nightmare and how she had woken up standing in the front lawn and about Sunrise.
"What if Pinkie is right," Sunset concluded, "I can't shake the feeling that a storm is coming and that I will be at the center of it all."
"Sunset, darling," Rarity said, "if there is then we will face it together."
Sunset smiled as she looked deeply onto Rarity's eyes, "I knew that there was a reason that I loved you."
*****
The demon fumed. Sunset was too protected now to go after directly, a new host would be needed. The first host had somehow been able to banish it from her mind in her sleep, something that Sunset had never been able to do. A new host would have to found. And find a new host the demon had! This new host was closer to Sunset then any other. She would do perfectly!
*****
Rarity was having trouble sleeping. She sat up in bed. One of the straps of her nightgown had fallen off her shoulder. She rubbed the sleep dust out of her eyes.
"Rarity," a voice whispered invitingly, "Rarity..."
Rarity looked around her room, nothing seemed out of place.
"Who is there," Rarity called out as she climbed out of bed, "Sweetie Belle, if this is another one of your little pranks it is not funny."
"Rarity, open the door," the voice whispered. Rarity found that try as she might she couldn't disobey. Slowly she opened the door.
She found Sunset standing there, looking down at the ground. Sunset looked up at Rarity with dead lifeless eyes.
"Rarity," the Sunset thing said, "help me!"
"YOU ARE NOT MY SUNSET!" Rarity screamed seconds before she woke up.
Sweat trickled down Rainbow Dash as she tossed and turned in her bed. Any one watching her would have been able to see that she was having a nightmare...
Rainbow was running. As fast as she ran, the singing flowers and their jazz flutes kept up. No matter where she turned they were waiting for her. She had to find an escape. She was running down a long narrow street, she could hear the evilly happy music behind her getting closer, and closer. She saw an opening ahead of her, an alleyway that led to the next street over, she had used it before...
Turning into the alley she ran face first into a brick wall. That wasn't supposed to be there! She looked around for a place to hide. If she exited the alley now, the would surely catch her. Rainbow listened as she heard the sound of approaching boots...
Sunset Shimmer entered the alley. She held out her hand.
"Take my hand Rainbow," Sunset said, "I can lead out of here."
Rainbow started to reach for Sunset, but then she pulled back her hand. Something was wrong. Looking Sunset over, Rainbow noticed that Sunset's eyes were the color of the night sky, and her hand resembled a talon more than a hand. The Sunset smiled at Rainbow. All Rainbow could do was scream...
"Damn," Rainbow said quietly as she wiped the sweat from her face.
*****
Both Rarity and Rainbow looked very disheveled when they arrived at school that morning.
"Rough night," Rainbow asked as she looked Rarity over.
"Mmhmm," Rarity answered as she took a sip from her gallon of coffee, "you?"
"Ditto," Rainbow answered, "have you seen Sunset, I really want to talk to her."
"Not yet I'm afraid," Rarity said, "and the line forms behind me."
"Nightmare," Rainbow asked.
"Nightmare," Rarity sighed.
"Ditto," Rainbow said, "what's going on, first Sunset has nightmares, and we need answers."
"Morning girls," Sunset said as she approached her two friends.
"As you can likely see, Rainbow and I did not get much sleep last night," Rarity said, "we both had nightmares, involving you."
"What, how," Sunset answered.
"Yeah," Rainbow said as she crossed her arms over her chest, "we were hoping that you could tell us."
"This doesn't make any sense," Sunset said rubbing her temple, "first I have terrible nightmares, then they stop. And now my friends are having those same nightmares."
Sunset began to think about the situation, then an unpleasant thought came to her.
"The demon can't get to me directly," Sunset said, "so it's targeting my friends, looking for the weakest mind to take hostage."
"Then any one of us could be the host," Rainbow asked. Sunset studied both Rarity and Rainbow intently.
"I believe that you two proved to strong willed for the demon," Sunset explained, "Rarity's affection for me likely protected her,"
"How was I protected," Rainbow asked,
"Oh that's easy," Sunset said, "I know both you and the demon, and you Rainbow, have a much larger ego than it does."
"Thanks," Rainbow said, "I think."
"So how do we figure out who the demon is going to infect," Rarity asked.
"I wish I knew Rares," Sunset answered, "I wish I knew."
"Maybe we should talk to the others," Rainbow said, "you know, to let them know what's happening."
"Actually that's a great idea Rainbow," Sunset said.
"So, what are we gonna do," Rainbow said as a grin crept across her face, "skip school?"
"I'm the Principal's daughter," Sunset said shuddering, "plus you haven't seen her when she is angry."
"Really Rainbow Dash," Rarity said, "you can be so immature."
"Mornin' gals," Applejack said, "how're y'all doin' this mornin'."
"Rarity and Rainbow both had nightmares last night about Sunset," Pinkie said as she and Fluttershy walked up, "what did I say?"
"PINKIE I SWEAR," Sunset exclaimed.
"Oh my," Fluttershy said as she stepped behind Applejack.
"Girls we need to talk," Rarity said.
Rainbow and Sunset nodded. Applejack looked at Pinkie and Fluttershy.
"Music room after school," Applejack said. The other girls nodded in agreement. They then went inside for class.
Sunset stopped at her locker and sighed, the fresh coat of paint that had been applied to her locker had been written over. Looking closely she could see that someone had actually scratched some very vulgar sayings and drawings into her locker. Suddenly Sunset got an idea, she stormed off in the direction of the CHS library. Entering the library she immediately saw who she was looking for.
"Trixie," Sunset said. Trixie looked up at Sunset, then she glanced around quickly looking for possible escape routes.
"S-Sunset, W-what can I do f-for you," Trixie asked, a slight hint of fear in her voice.
"I want," Sunset started to say, then she changed what she was going to say, "I mean, could you please tell me about Sunrise?"
"Sunrise," Trixie asked, not able to contain her surprise, "why do you want to know about my cousin?"
"Something happened over the weekend," Sunset said, "look I just want to know more about her."
"Oh right, the mirror thing," Trixie said, "I overheard my mom and your mom talking about it."
"Eavesdrop much?" Sunset said sarcastically.
"The Great and Powerful Trixie doesn't eavesdrop," Trixie said, "at least no on her mom!"
"Luna would kill you," Sunset said.
"You have no idea," Trixie answered, "so what exactly did you want to know?"
"Well mom told me about what she was like as a daughter," Sunset said, "could you tell me what she was like as a friend?"
Trixie hesitated, Sunset could the pain in Trixie's eyes as she thought about her cousin, it reminded Sunset that she and Trixie weren't really a family.
"Sunrise was more than my cousin," Trixie said as her eyes began to water, "she was my best friend and protector."
"When I found out that I was diabetic," Trixie continued, "most of the other kids called me a freak and made fun of me since I had to get shots multiple times a day and I couldn't eat a lot of sugar. Sunrise sent many of my tormentors home with black eyes."
Sunset listened, she had never bothered Trixie about being diabetic, it was a medical condition that she knew Trixie had not caused herself.
"We were inseparable," Trixie said, "mom once joked that we would have to move in with your mom and dad since Sunrise and I wouldn't go to sleep until we told each other goodnight."
Sunset laughed at the image of a young Trixie throwing a temper tantrum because she couldn't say goodnight to her cousin.
"Then Sunrise got sick and passed away," Trixie said as tears began to run down her cheeks, "I didn't understand why I couldn't talk to her or play with her or show her my latest magic trick anymore."
Trixie paused as she wiped away her tears. Then she looked at Sunset, really looked at her for the first time since their conversation had begun. Sunset felt as if Trixie was looking deep within her soul.
"Then you showed up," Trixie said "you look like her and you sound like her, but you aren't her. And you never will be."
"Trixie, I-" Sunset began.
"Please go," Trixie sniffled, "I kinda want to be alone now."
Sunset looked at Trixie, then she reached out and gave her shoulder a squeeze before she walked out of the library.
For most of the day, Sunset couldn't get what Trixie had said to her off of her mind.
"Penny of your thoughts," Rarity said, brining Sunset back to the present. She and her friends were gathered in the music room after school.
"Oh I was just thinking about something Trixie told me this morning," Sunset answered.
"What did the Great and Powerful Trixie do now," Rainbow answered with a hint of anger in her voice.
"Nothing, I was just asking her a few questions." Sunset said hoping to difuse Rainbow's fury.
"So,' Applejack said, "what did y'all want to talk about?"
Sunset, Rarity and Rainbow looked at each other, silently trying to decide who would speak first. After a moment Rarity took charge.
"Rainbow and I both had nightmares last night," Rarity said, "involving Sunset's demon."
"NAILED IT," Pinkie cried enthusiastically.
"I think the demon is searching for a new host," Sunset said, "and by targeting my friends it knows that it will get to me."
"So what are we supposed to do," Rainbow said, "not sleep."
"It'll likely try to seduce or tempt you," Sunset sighed, "you have to be willing otherwise it has no power over you."
"Eep," Fluttershy silently said.
"So any one of us could end up being the host," Applejack asked.
"I believe that it is going after those I'm closest too," Sunset said, "which means you girls."
"But you're closer to Rarity than any of us," Pinkie said, "shouldn't she be the host?"
"Rarity's feeling for me allowed her to see through the demon's attempt." Sunset answered.
"It was a rather poor facsimile of my beloved Sunset," Rarity said as she wrapped her arms around her girlfriend.
"Would you two please get a room," Rainbow said jokingly.
"I think it's sweet." Fluttershy said.
*****
The demon circled over Canterlot, unnoticed by all. Silently observing Sunset and her friends. It had in mind who it would target tonight. Once they went to sleep, they would be the weapon that it used to conquer Sunset Shimmer!
*****
"Ooh, even the cake is made of cake," Pinkie exclaimed as she dipped her fork into the giant cake in front of her, "mmm spicy!"
Pinkie danced around the giant cake, but she suddenly list her footing and found herself neck deep in cake batter in a giant mixing bowl. Slowly, the egg beaters on the mixing bowl began to spin, sucking her toward them.
"Take my hand," Sunset said.
Pinkie looked up and saw Sunset standing over the bowl, reaching out for her. Pinkie started to reach for Sunset, but she hesitated. She wasn't sure why, but something about Sunset didn't seem right. Then she got an idea.
"What kind of pizza did Discord first give you?" Pinkie asked.
"What are you talking about Pinkie," Sunset said, "can't you see that I'm trying to save you?"
"Wrong answer," Pinkie said moments before she woke up.
"Maybe I should only eat two slices of cake before bed." Pinkie said.
Sunset waited quietly for Celestia and Discord to go to sleep. Once she was certain that they were she quickly and quietly made sure that Scootaloo was also asleep. Then she slipped out the front door. Sunset needed some time to think and to analyze what was happening to her friends and herself. As she wandered the silent and dark streets alone she didn't have a destination in mind.
Sunset found herself standing outside the park. She sat down on bench illuminated only by the light of the full moon. Somehow I formed a contract with that demon, Sunset thought, all contracts have a way to invalidate themselves, how do I invalidate this one? Sunset didn't get time to think of an answer to her question, at that moment a car that she recognized happened to drive past. She watched as it turned around and pulled up to the curb.
"Sunset," Luna said, "my sister is going to kill you for being out this late."
"Sorry Luna," Sunset said, "I just needed to get out of the house and think."
"More nightmares," Luna asked as Sunset got in the car.
"Haven't had any in almost a week," Sunset answered as she put on her seatbelt, "that's my problem."
"How is that a problem," Luna asked, "if I had been having nightmares like yours I would welcome any respite."
"How do you know how bad my nightmares were," Sunset asked, she knew that Luna's Equestrian counterpart could see and enter dreams, but as far as she was aware no such power existed in this world.
"My sister told me," Luna said, "she thought I could help you."
"How could you help," Sunset asked.
"When I was your age, I suffered from horrific nightmares," Luna answered, "they drove me to do somethings that I regret."
"Like what," Sunset asked.
"Maybe I'll tell you when you're older," Luna answered, "now tell me about your nightmares."
"They started right after the Fall Formal," Sunset sighed, "that demon that I turned into kept coming to me each night and threatened my friends and my family."
"I'm listening," Luna said.
"Then one night," Sunset continued, "an angel, or what I perceive to be an angel, appeared to fought the demon. That night I saw something I still can't explain, but since then I haven't had any nightmares."
"That's sounds good," Luna said, "you have a guardian angel watching over you."
"Yeah," Sunset said, "but now the demon is haunting my friends dreams, and I have to go d a way to stop it before it consumes one of them like it did me. And it's all my fault."
"Sunset listen to me," Luna said, "when I look at you I don't see a bad person, I never have. I see a scared little girl who may have stumbled, and might have lost her way. But I know that you aren't beyond redemption, all you need to do is ask."
Sunset looked at Luna oddly, what did she mean that all she needed to do was ask? Sunset was about to ask what Luna meant when they pulled into Celestia's driveway.
"Well here we are, can you get inside with out waking Celestia," Luna asked. Sunset nodded, "ok I'll see you tomorrow at school."
Sunset watched as Luna put her car into reverse and backed out of the driveway before silently slipping inside.
*****
Fluttershy danced in the arms of her prince. She stared lovingly into his red eyes. He simply stated back. They danced in a ballroom made of clouds. She was so list in the moment that she could no longer hear the music.
"Everyone is watching," he said.
"Let them watch," Fluttershy whispered to him, as she pulled his face towards hers for a passionate kiss.
"Bulk Biceps! Really," Fluttershy heard a voice say, "I never would have guessed!"
Fluttershy looked around and saw Sunset Shimmer, the old Sunset Shimmer, watching her.
"Sunset," Fluttershy asked in her quiet voice, "what are you doing here?"
"Why, I'm looking for you," Sunset said in a sinister voice, "my dear Fluttershy."
"Why are you looking for me," Fluttershy said, "oh your eyes,"
Sunsets eyes had turned black but seemed to burn with an unnatural fire.
"Come here Fluttershy," Sunset said with a voice that wasn't her own, "take my hand I can give you everything you desire."
"NO! Look here Ms. Demon," Fluttershy said as she stared intently into the demon's eyes, "you may look like my friend, but I know that you aren't her! I don't know what you have planned but I can see through your game!"
The demon felt it's disguise being ripped away, and if it had ever had a soul of it's own it would have felt terror from the girl before it.
*****
That was unexpected. The demon had never encountered a being so pure before. The girl had been able to see into the demon's very essence and overpower it. It was getting frustrated, each potential host that it had tried to consume so far had been able to defeat it. Now the demon circled a farm house. Yes. This could do. The occupants of this house knew suffering and loss. What was even better was that one occupant was a friend of Sunset Shimmer. This would do perfectly.
The demon attempted to enter the house but found it's way barred. Something was preventing it from entering. How could this be? The demon tried again but it couldn't seem to set foot inside.
"You have no power here," two voice seemed to echo from the heavens, "begone foul creature of the abyss!"
"Hey Mini-Demon," Diamond Tiara called out to Scootaloo as she shoved the purple haired girl into a wall, "your big sister isn't here to protect you. Get her boys!"
"I don't need the she-bitch to look after me," Scootaloo said as she tried to fight back, but both Snips and Snails had pinned her against the wall. Sunset and her friends had left on a field trip earlier that morning. Diamond Tiara pulled a permanent marker from her pocket.
"Snips," Diamond Tiara ordered, "hold her head still."
With that Diamond Tiara began to draw or write something on Scootaloo's face. Out of the corner of her Scootaloo could see her friends Sweetie Belle and Applebloom just standing by and watching. Scootaloo wanted to scream but Snips had his hand tightly clamped over her mouth.
"OW! Hurry up DT," Snips said, "She's trying to bite me."
"Then bite her back you fool," Diamond Tiara said, "and don't ever call me DT!"
Scootaloo's eyes went wide at the prospect of being bitten by either Snips or Snails. She stopped trying to bite Snips. At some point she stopped trying to fight all together and when Diamont Tiara ordered her goons to release her she just sank to the floor.
"Looks like we broke her," Snails commented.
"Our work here is done, lets go," Diamond Tiara said as she sauntered off followed closely by Snips and Snails.
"I OWN YOU," Diamond Tiara said looking back at Scootaloo.
Sweetie Belle started to move to Scootaloo's side, but Applebloom stopped her and shook her head. Scootaloo just wanted to sink further into the floor at that point. Eventually the tears came, followed by anger. Anger at her so-called friends for abandoning her, and anger towards Sunset for causing her life to be nothing but torture. Anger that turned into hatred.
"Are you ok," A voice said as Scootaloo felt a hand on her back. Scootaloo looked up and found herself looking at Diamond Tiara's number one lackey, Silver Spoon.
"Come back for more," Scootaloo snarled at Silver Spoon.
"No-I, I asked Di to leave alone," Silver Spoon said quietly, "let me help you up and then let's get you cleaned up."
Scootaloo hesitated, as she thought back over all the years that Diamond Tiara had tormented her and how often Silver Spoon had been by her side.
"Why should I trust you," Scootaloo asked, "I have almost as much reason to hate you as much as I do Diamond Tiara and Sunset."
Scootaloo's words visibly stung Silver Spoon.
"I'm offering help now," Silver Spoon answered as she held out her hand, "no one else is."
Reluctantly, Scootaloo took Silver Spoon's hand. In the back of her mind she couldn't help but think that Silver Spoon was playing a trick on her. After Helping her up Silver Spoon grabbed Scootaloo's backpack, which had been kicked against the wall. Then she guided Scootaloo towards the nearest restroom.
Silver Spoon locked the door behind her after she made sure that they were the only two in the room. Looking in the mirror, Scootaloo saw what Diamond Tiara had done to her. Though her tears had smeared the ink before it dried, Scootaloo could make out Sunset's sun symbol on her left cheek. Her right cheek had Diamond Tiara's crown symbol. Silver Spoon dampened a paper towel and put some soap on it before handing it to Scootaloo. Try as she might, she couldn't get the ink to come off.
"Ugh, it's no use," Scootaloo said after a while.
"Here," Silver Spoon said, "let me try."
Silver Spoon gently scrubbed Scootaloo's face and managed to get the crown off of her cheek, but she couldn't remove the sun.
"Thanks for trying Silver Spoon," Scootaloo sighed.
"What are you going to do now," Silver Spoon asked.
"Well, I can't stay at school looking like this," Scootaloo said, "I'm ditching."
"You're ditching," Silver Spoon said in exasperation, "what if you get caught?"
"They'll only catch me if someone tells them," Scootaloo said looking at Silver Spoon with an intensity in her eyes that Silver Spoon felt compelled to obey. With that Scootaloo grabbed her backpack and unlocked the door. Taking a quick glance outside she turned and smiled at Silver Spoon before storming off out of the door.
"I love you," Silver Spoon whispered to herself a moment later, her own tears staining her cheeks.
*****
Scootaloo was relieved to find the house empty when she walked in. She left her scooter and her backpack by the couch and headed to her room. She opened the laptop on her desk and logged into MyStable. She was greeted by a video that someone had posted and tagged her in. Out of curiosity she opened the video. She watched in silent horror as Diamond Tira order Snips and Snails to pin her to the wall. She watched as the person filming the video, who she deduced to be Hoops, made a very lewd commentary. She replayed the video when she noticed that both Sweetie Belle and Applebloom just watched everything unfold and didn't even try stop it. On her third playthrough she noticed that Silver Spoon wasn't any where in the video. Scootaloo began to seethe with anger. Scootaloo grabbed a sheet of paper and began to write.
Dear Whoever, Sorry that you had to find this. I just can't go on living in her shadow any longer. My friends have abandoned me, my family doesn't seem to care. All I ever wanted was to be accepted for who i am, not who my sister may or may not be.
Will anyone even notice if I'm gone? I doubt. But I guess someone had to care if you are reading this. I need to get away. I need to fly free. I guess this is good-bye.
Scootaloo read what she had wrote, and frowned. Was she such a coward? She didn't think so. With disgust she crumpled up the note and left it on her desk. Then she walked out of the house. She needed to think. She didn't realize that in her haste, she had left her phone behind.
*****
Celestia and Sunset arrived home almost thirty minutes later. The first thing Celestia saw was Scootaloo's scooter and her backpack by the couch.
"Scootaloo what have I told you about leaving your scooter out," Celestia called out. No response. Sighing, Celestia grabbed the scooter and carried it to Scootaloo's room. The first thing she noticed was that Scootaloo wasn't there. The second thing she noticed was the video that was playing on a loop on Scootaloo's computer. Then she noticed the crumpled up piece of paper. Celestia uncrumpled the paper and read what Scootaloo had written.
"Oh no," Celestia cried, which got Sunset's attention, "my baby!"
Celestia was in a state of panic. She had found a note in Scootaloo's own handwriting that sounded like the young girl was ready to end it all. Celestia sat at her daughter's desk and silently restarted the video.
"Thank you Aunt Luna," Sunset said as she entered her sister's room and looked at her mother.
"Luna is going to keep an eye out for her," Sunset said, "Trixie, Rarity, and Applejack are going to call if she shows up at either of their houses. Rainbow is currently checking the skate park and the basketball courts. We'll find her."
"This is my fault," Celestia said quietly.
"NO," Sunset said firmly, "if anyone is to blame I am at fault, everyone was targeting her because of me!"
"Sunset, you can't blame yourself," Celestia said.
"Can't I," Sunset said as she pointed to the video. The sun that Diamond Tiara had drawn on Scootaloo's face was prominently displayed.
*****
Scootaloo found herself alone in the park. There was no one around but she felt as though someone was watching her.
"Scootaloo," a voice in her head whispered, "Scootaloo, why are you so angry my sweet, sweet, Scootaloo?"
"Who's th-there," Scootaloo said.
"Someone who can help you," the voice whispered back.
"Wh-what do you mean," Scootaloo asked.
"I can help you get revenge on Diamond Tiara and your so called friends," the strange voice snarled, "I can help you put Sunset Shimmer in her place."
"How," Scootaloo asked.
"Allow me to show you," the voice whispered seductively.
Scootaloo thought for a moment.
"Ok, show me," she said finally, suddenly her world went black... Scootaloo found herself standing in the hallway at CHS. She saw Diamond Tiara heading her way with a smirk on her face. She was being followed by both Applebloom and Sweetie Belle.
"Get her girls," Diamond Tiara called out as both of her former friends moved to shove her against the wall. Instead Scootaloo managed to side step out of the way which caused Applebloom to collide with Sweetie Belle. Scootaloo then spun around as Diamond Tiara reached out to grab her. Scootaloo grabbed her arm and pushed her into Sweetie Belle. The world went black again. When Scootaloo's vision returned she found herself outside CHS, this time she was looking at Sunset and her friends as the stood around the Wondercolt statue.
"Can you believe what Scootaloo did," Sunset said to Rarity.
"Yeah, she shouldn't of done that to Sweetie Belle," Rainbow said, "I mean just because Sweetie Belle is better at basketball than her isn't an excuse for that kind of behavior."
"Rainbow Dash..." Scootaloo said, her voice having a strange echo to it.
"They can't hear you," the voice whispered in her ear, "they don't care about you."
The scene changed again. This time it showed Silver Spoon lounging by her pool.
"I can also help you get want you want," the voice whispered, "even though you deny your own feelings."
"Wait-what," Scootaloo said as she looked at Silver Spoon.
"All you have to do is ask," The voice responded. Scootaloo suddenly found herself back in the park, alone.
"I want it," Scootaloo said, "I want it all!"
"Scoots, there you are," Rainbow said as she ran up to the younger girl, "your parents and your sister are sorting themselves sick over you.
"I doubt it," Scootaloo said under her breath as Rainbow pulled out her phone. Rainbow rolled her eyes as she dialed a phone number.
"Sunset, I found her at the park," Rainbow said, "uh yes ma'am Mrs. Celestia, I'll bring her home right now."
Rainbow put her phone back in her pocket.
"Come on Squirt," Rainbow said, "I'm sorry about what Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon did to you. You know that you can reach out to me if you ever need it."
"SILVER SPOON WASN'T INVOLVED," Scootaloo screamed before lowering her voice to a near whisper, "it was Diamond Tiara and, my, my friends."
"What," Rainbow said incredulously, "that doesn't sound like Applebloom or Sweetie Belle at all."
"What ever," Scootaloo said. She didn't want anything to do with her former friends. They had betrayed her, not the other way around. At least Silver Spoon was her friend.
*****
Scootaloo's eyes snapped open. She realized that she had been having a nightmare. After calming herself down she noticed that she felt different, she felt more powerful than she ever had before! If she could have seen herself in a mirror she would have noticed that she was giving off an odd black glow.
Sunset's eyes snapped open. The morning sun was shining brightly through her bedroom windows. She looked at her alarm clock.
03:37AM
Sunset sat up. The sun shouldn't be shining this early. Sunset began to think of a rational explanation to her predicament. She remembered something that Pinkie had once said and done. Sunset pinched herself.
"Ouch," Sunset exclaimed, "so I am really awake, and in some pain I guess."
Then Sunset noticed the large orb of light floating in front of her. It was the size of a basketball and seemed ethereal in substance.
"What the fuck are you supposed to be," Sunset asked, not expecting a response.
"Prepare yourself Sunset Shimmer," the orb said, "the host has been chosen!"
Sunset's eyes went wide.
"What," Sunset started to say, but suddenly the Orb began to implode upon itself and as quickly as it had appeared, it vanished, leaving Sunset in a darkened room once more.
"The host has been chosen? What does that mean," Sunset asked herself, "oh no!"
Sunset reached for her phone and immediately called Rarity.
"Hey Rares," Sunset said, "sorry to bother you but have had a nightmare tonight..... You didn't ok, I love you..... I'll tell you at school tomorrow. Sweet dreams love."
Sunset repeated the call five more times except without telling her friends that she loved them. Pinkie had wanted to come over and have an insomnia party, whatever that was. Looking around her darkened room, Sunset realised that she wasn't going to able to get back to sleep, so she decided to go downstairs and find a magical cup of coffee.
She was surprised to find that Celestia had beaten her to the coffee maker. The older woman was leaning with her back against the refrigerator silently sipping a cup. She had left milk and sugar on the counter.
"Couldn't sleep," they both asked each other at the same instant. Celestia chuckled.
"Your father is snoring again, and he refuses to admit it," Celestia said, "tomorrow night he sleeps on the couch. What about you?"
"I'm not sure," Sunset said, "I think I had a dream, I mean, that's the only way to rationalize what just happened, but on the other hand I'm really a magical unicorn from Equestria so..."
It was at that moment that a zombie-like Scootaloo came stomping down the stairs. She herself made a beeline for the coffee as well. Celestia looked at her youngest daughter with interest.
"Now I'm concerned," Sunset said, "Scoots doesn't even like coffee."
"Shut up," Scootaloo said, "mom, could you please cover dad's mouth with duct tape, my room is right on the other side of the wall from yours."
Celestia was about to speak when the sound of a woodchipper coming from upstairs interrupted her.
"Calm down Bacon-Hair," Scootaloo said sarcastically.
*****
Sunset looked up as she felt a pair of arms embrace her. She was sitting at one of the picnic tables on front of the school.
"Morning Rares," Sunset said as she gave her girlfriend a small kiss on the cheek, "you smell nice today."
"Must be my new lavender strawberry body wash dear," Rarity said, "you don't look so good, are coming down with an ailment like my dear sister?"
Sunset looked around, and she noticed that Scootaloo was still seated by herself on the school's front steps, Rarity's sister, Scoots' best friend wasn't anywhere to be seen.
"Is Sweetie okay," Sunset asked.
"She woke up with a sore throat and no voice," Rarity answered, "mother decided to have her stay home from school, I'm inclined to agre- oh my!"
"What," Sunset said as her eyes followed where Rarity was looking. She saw Fluttershy and her younger brother walking towards the school, but what had both Rarity's and Sunset's attention was who Fluttershy was walking hand in hand with. Zephyr himself didn't look happy.
"I'll see you after first period," Fluttershy giggled as she stood up on her tip toes to give Bulk Biceps a quick peck on the cheek.
"Morning 'Shy," Sunset grinned, "so, you and Bulk..."
"He's really nice and gentle," Fluttershy answered.
"If he hurts my sister," Zephyr muttered to himself.
"You'll do what," Rainbow asked as she climbed off her bicycle.
"Come and get you Rainbows," Zephyr said, "want to go run some laps together on the field? Just the two of us."
"Eh, no thanks," Rainbow deadpanned.
"Zephyr, why don't you go grab us all some breakfast from the cafeteria," Fluttershy suggested.
"Okay, I know when I'm not wanted," Zephyr mumbled as he walked away.
"Did Ah jest see Fluttershy kiss Bulk Biceps," Applejack asked as Applebloom pushed past the group and joined Scootaloo.
"I'm throwing a FLUTTERSHY-IS-DATING-BULK-BICEPS-AND-SCOOTALOO-IS-TOTALLY-A-DEMON PARTY," Pinkie said excitedly and out of breath. All five of her friends looked at the pink haired party planner and shrugged.
"So Sunshim, why did you call in the middle of the night," Rainbow asked.
Sighing, Sunset proceeded to tell her friends about her visitor during the night. There was a tense moment of silence as Sunset's words sank in.
"I wonder who it could be," Pinkie said after a moment.
Sunset glanced over her shoulder towards the school.
"At this point it could be anyone," Sunset said, "and none of us are safe."
"Oh darling," Rarity said as she wrapped Sunset in her arms, "don't be such a drama queen."
"That's your job," Rainbow laughed.
"Quite," Rarity said tersely.
"Anyhoo," Applejack answered, "we beat this monster once, we can do so again."
"But last time you had the Princess, and you knew who the demon was," Sunset said, "me!"
"Sounds like a job for Shadow Spade," Rarity exclaimed as she summoned a red fedora and similarly colored trench coat from nothing.
"Rarity, we don't have time for games," Sunset sighed.
"Oh," Rarity wimpered, "I rarely get to wear this outfit."
"I'm sure Sunset would love to take it off of you," Rainbow said without cracking a smile, "but that will have to wait for later."
"Watch it Rainbow," Sunset growled, "get close enough and I'll dislocate your finger."
*****
"Ah guess that Sweetie is sick today," Applebloom said.
"I guess," Scootaloo answered. Is she really sick, or is she just avoiding you? A voice in Scootaloo's head said.
"Hey Scootaloo," A voice said, "would it be okay if I joined you for lunch?"
Scootaloo looked up and saw Silver Spoon standing in front of her. Silver Spoon looked nervous, and she was blushing a step shade of crimson. Scootaloo found herself at a loss for words. She just nodded.
Isn't this interesting, the voice in Scootaloo's head said.
"That's a yes," Silver Spoon answered excitedly, "I'll see you at lunch!"
Applebloom and Scootaloo watched as Silver Spoon seemed to float away.
"Uh what was that about," Applebloom said, "she has never been nice to us before, she and Diamond Tiara are likely planning something."
"Leave Silver Spoon alone," Scootaloo said as she stormed off to class.
"Was it somethin Ah said," Applebloom asked herself.
*****
All morning in each of her classes Scootaloo could feel the glares behind her back. Though she couldn't hear what they were saying she knew that they were whispering behind her back. Her only solace came in knowing that she would get to spend lunch with Silver Spoon. Scootaloo was on her way to the cafeteria when Hoops tripped her.
"Whoops, silly me," Hoops said to the laughter of his friends, "I didn't see there Mini-Demon."
Scootaloo fought back the tears. Instead, she ran out the front entrance of the school past Applebloom who watched in shocked silence and then she ran to the cafeteria.
Scootaloo found herself standing in front of the Wondercolt statue. Something told her to reach out and touch it. She closed her eyes and obeyed.
*****
No one noticed ad Applebloom burst into the cafeteria. Panting as she caught her breath, she saw who she was looking for.
"SUNSET! Somethins wrong with Scootaloo," Applebloom cried out. The entire cafeteria went silent and all eyes fell upon Applebloom.
"Where is she," Sunset asked, the concern was obvious in her voice.
"Ah watched her run out of the school," Applebloom said, "she stopped at the statue."
Silver Spoon suddenly got up from the seat where she had been waiting for Scootaloo and ran out of the cafeteria.
"Pinkie, get my mom and have her meet me out front," Sunset said as she followed the path that Silver Spoon had just taken, "come with me Applebloom."
"Is Scoots gonna be alright," Applebloom asked quietly.
"I hope so," was Sunset's only reply.
Sunset nearly walked into Silver Spoon as she exited CHS. She saw Scootaloo standing with both hands on the statue. The ground around the statue almost seemed to be boiling, and a dark cloud circled overhead.
"Sunset," Silver Spoon said, "what's going to happen to Scootaloo?"
"I'm going to save her from that demon," Sunset confidently.
"Well, well, well," said a voice that wasn't Scootaloo's but came from Scootaloo's mouth said, "if it isn't Sunset Shimmer, the self proclaimed defender of Canterlot High."
"Scootaloo," Celestia gasped as she joined Sunset outside the school.
Scootaloo turned around faced them. She opened her eyes and revealed that that were now pools of inky darkness that led to no soul. Scootaloo smiled an unnaturally wide and toothy grin.
"Stand aside mother," Scootaloo commanded, "it is time for Sunset Shimmer to die!"
"Scootaloo don't do this," Celestia cried, she felt as if she had failed both Sunset and Scootaloo.
"No," Sunset said defiantly, "you aren't Scootaloo, and if I can still save her then I will."
"Oh and how are you going to do that," the demon inside Scootaloo taunted, "you seem to be one princess short."
Sunset looked around, she hadn't noticed her friends had joined her outside of the school. Suddenly Sunset felt something that she hadn't felt in quite a while.
"With the magic of friendship," Sunset exclaimed as she felt the magic surge inside of her.
"Bwahahahaha! You have to be kidding," the demon laughed, "the portal is closed, you have no access to the magic."
With that the demon let loose a fireball toward Sunset, Silver Spoon, and Celestia. Sunset pushed both Celestia and Silver Spoon out of the fireball's path. She however was caught in the inferno.
"So much raw power," the demon said, "who is next?"
The demon looked at Sunset's friends who all stood in shock. Grim determination set upon each of their faces as they prepared themselves to avenge their friend.
Slowly the fire that had engulfed Sunset began to go out. Rarity let out a silent gasp as she watched Sunset absorb the magical fire into her skin. Even the former unicorn's clothes were unscathed.
Suddenly a pair of fiery wings erupted from Sunset's back as she kept into the air. She also seemed to grow several inches taller and her hair itself became a flaming beacon.
The demon looked at Sunset and snickered.
"So you want to play a little, fine with me," the demon exclaimed. Scootaloo jumped into the air and wings and a tail sprouted from her back, but what surprised everyone was the size she grew to. She quickly stood taller than the statue. Reaching out the demon grabbed Sunset in one of it's bony claws and squeezed her.
"I should have taken this vessel in the first place," the demon said as it threw Sunset violently to the ground.
"Sunset," Rarity screamed as she knelt by her girlfriend's side, "what can we do to help?"
Sunset looked at the demon and then she looked deeply into Rarity's eyes. She grabbed Rarity's hand and then took Pinkie's hand into her other.
"You will never defeat us," Sunset boldly exclaimed. Each of the six girls began to glow a different hue of the rainbow. Then a rainbow shot out of the girls and engulfed the demon formally known as Scootaloo.
For a long moment only distant thunder broke the silence. Then the rainbow receeded.
"Stop that," the demon laughed, "it tickles."
Sunset was at a loss, she had used the magic of friendship, and that hadn't been enough to save her sister.
Sister. Realization dawned on Sunset.
"I won't be the one to defeat you," Sunset said finally, "Scootaloo will."
"And how will she do that, hmm," the demon responded, "if you haven't noticed, I am in full control."
"Because she has a magic more powerful than the magic of friendship," Sunset shouted as she took both Celestia's and Silver Spoon"s hands, "THE MAGIC OF FRIENDSHIP AND FAMILY!"
The world seemed to go quiet as sunlight broke through the dark storm clouds. An orb of light descended from the heavens and entered Sunset. The wings of fire were quickly extinguished and replaced by two large powerful wings of pure white feathers. Sunset's clothes were replaced with a white toga.
Without saying a word Sunset jumped inside the demon.
Darkness surrounded her. It took Sunset a moment to get her bearings. She heard thunder, but also something else. She recognized it as weeping and followed it to it's source. She found Scootaloo.
"I never wanted this," Scootaloo said.
"Shhh, Scootaloo," Sunset said, "I'm here to help guide you, but you must be the one to overcome this monster."
"How, all I have done is be mean to you," Scootaloo said.
"Scoots, I promise to be a better sister to you," Sunset said, "plus I believe Silver Spoon is out there waiting for you."
Scootaloo looked at Sunset, she felt a light begin to grow inside of her that pushed its self out and consumed the demon. There was so much force that it expelled Sunset from the demon.
