Out of the crater, into the light

by Xenont

First published

After her defeat, Sunset's new friends help her to find a place in this world, and teach her that she has to forgive heeself in order to be able to move on.

After Twilight blasted Sunset with the 'Rainbow beam' , she is broken. lost and cannot forgive herself. Her new friends help her to realise what she is missing, teach her to forgive herself and to help her fit in, standing by her side despite the odds.

Happens after the night of the Fall Formal.

After the Fall Formal - Chapter 1

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Sunset Shimmer shouted loudly in agony as the 'rainbow beam' curled around her. Her vision was blurred as she saw nothing but rainbow swirls. She felt her demon wings getting ripped off her body as she was transformed back into a human. Tears of pain ran down her face as she was thrown forcefully towards the ground, causing a huge dent to appear.

She curled up in pain as she slowly opened her eyes. huh? what's going on? Around her was a series of floating images that slowly grew closer and closer to her. What is happening? Where am I ? The images got nearer to her, near enough for sunset to make them out. Her eyes widened in horror.

Each of the floating pictures showed a time when she hurt someone, when she used someone. Suddenly, the light around her turned red, all the images started flying towards Sunset at a pace so fast, she fell to her knees as they intruded her mind. "Argh! " Sunset's eyes filled with tears as she ran through her new memories, which apparently, lodged itself in a place in the back of Sunset's mind, in a place she would never forget.


The world around Sunset snapped to an end as she took a while to process where she was. She was back in the crater, hunching over. she looked up to see all the students she bullied, all the students she had hurt, staring down at her. Twilight looked down at her, looking evidently disappointed. "You will never rule in Equestria!" Twilight shouted towards the crater. "Any power you once had in this world is gone. Tonight, you showed everyone who you truly are, you showed them what is in your heart."

Sunset looked up at the Princess, fresh tears filling her eyes once more she made an attempt to crawl out of the crater, her arms felt weak and sore. "I'm sorry.....I'm so sorry.....I didn't know there was another way...." Sunset's tears formed a puddle under her chin as she clenched her fists, trying her best to climb out.

Twilight looked at Sunset pitifully. “The Magic of Friendship doesn’t exist just in Equestria,” Twilight said “It’s everywhere. You can seek it out! Or you can forever be alone. The choice is yours.” she looked at Sunset.

“But all I’ve ever done since being here is drive everyone apart!” Sunset cried, her tears mixing with the dirt. “I don’t know the first thing about friendship."She barely made it out of the hole. She looked at Twilight , tears filling her eyes. Twilight saw no anger or hatred in Sunset's eyes. She extended her hand, grabbing hold of Sunset and pulling her up.

"I bet they could teach you. " Twilight said, waving her hands towards the five girls standing around them. Sunset smiled. But why? Why did you forgive me? I don't deserve it. Not after what I have done.....

"I believe this belongs to you. " A voice behind them said. Principal Celestia stood meters away from them, holding Twilight's crown. Twilight made sure Sunset was stable before leaving her by the side of the crater.

“A true princess in any world leads not by forcing others to bow before her, but by inspiring others to stand with her. We have all seen that you are capable of just that!” Celestia said. “I hope you see it too, Princess Twilight,” Celestia smiled placing the crown on her head.

Everyone whooped and cheered, everyone but Sunset. She crossed her arms over her chest, not looking into anyone's eyes. Just then, Flash came up to Twilight and asked her if she still wanted to dance with him. when Twilight took his arm and agreed, Sunset felt a pang of regret flow through her. Well, guess i can't be TOO jealous. I did treat him pretty bad back then..... .

Twilight held Flash's hand as she remembered that Sunset was still there. "Erm...Flash....Can you wait for me in the hall....I need a moment with...." Flash seemed to understand as he nodded and walked to the hall. "Sunset." Twilight turned around to look at her. Sunset refused to look into twilight's eyes.I don't deserve to be spared....Not after what I've done...

Twilight knew that she needed to return to Equestria in an hour and could not waste it away. "Sunset...Look, I forgive you. You don't have to be afraid..." She gave Sunset a reassuring look as she handed her over to her friends. "please make sure she stays safe." Twilight said, handing Sunset's bruised hand to Rainbow Dash, who instantly gave Sunset a big hug. a few seconds later, the other four joined in, causing even more tears to come to Sunset's eyes.

Hand in hand, the seven of them headed to the hall to dance.


In the hall, Twilight went up to Flash and went to dance with him as Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy and Applejack urged sunset to join them on the dance floor,

"Come on Sunset!!!" Pinkie shouted. "It'll be fine!" But Sunset just shook her head. "No....no thanks...." She said softly, she did not want to look at any students as just by looking at them would bring horrible memories of her bullying them back to her mind.

"Ok then. We ain't gonna force ya." Apple Jack said. She led Sunset to a row of chairs and let her sit down. "Just let us know if ya need anythin." The girls nodded as they, too went to dance, leaving Sunset to her own thoughts

Do they REALLY forgive me for what I have done? I tore them AND the school apart for years! Sunset closed her eyes and groaned. I really wished I could turn back time and make everything right. I must have caused so much pain! Sunset nodded. She, after all had experienced all the pain of everyone she had hurt when the memories flooded her mind when the elements struck her.


The hall was full of Singing, dancing and laughing. Everyone was celebrating Sunset's defeat. Everyone was happy. Everyone except Sunset, Who was hunched up on the chairs, crying. Sunset truly regretted what she had done, the damage to the school and its students. She really, if she could, wanted to go up to each and every one of them to bow down and apologise to everyone she hurt. But....Would they even want to see me anymore? Would they even want to talk to me anymore? Would they.....forgive me? The question stayed in Sunset's head as she look at the students who were dancing and enjoying themselves.

"Hey guys! What should we do about Sunset?" Rainbow asked after a while of silent dancing. "I mean, I really want to help her!"

"Yeah. She may have split us apart, but it does not mean we should turn her down." Fluttershy said, pointing to Sunset, who was still deep in thought.

"Yes." Rainbow said. "We are probably the only ones who would even consider talking to her now.......I mean, look!" She pointed to Sunset. Beside her was a group of students, pointing and glaring at the former demon. Sunset looked away from them, knowing that they were right. She was horrible.

"She does seem in need of a friend!" Rarity pointed out. "After all, our Friendship is magic. If I would use it to change anyone, It'll be Sunset."

All of them nodded in unison to show their approval. "Come on, let's go talk to her!" Pinkie said. "She seems lonely there, you know? Alone!"

The five girls made their way through the crowd, nearly bumping into Twilight. "Oof!" Twilight fell backwards as Rainbow reached out to catch her. "Sorry Twi! We were just going to see how Sunset was holding up! " Rainbow said as she helped up Twilight to her feet. "Hey! You wanna come? "

Twilight nodded as they continued to squirm their way to Sunset, pushing and shoving their way through the mass of students


"Hey Sunset? Y'all alright? " Applejack said, making Sunset jump right out of her skin. "Ahh!" She shouted. "Sorry, we just wanted to talk to ya." Applejack continued, taking a seat next to Sunset.

Sunset looked ap at the six girls that had hit her with that Rainbow wave. "Yes? " She answered, still not looking up. "If you want me to say sorry, I....." Sunset choked on her own words as she felt tears coming to her eyes. No apology can make up for what I did.... She brought her hands to her face in an attempt to cover the fact that she was crying for the seventh time that night.

Twilight took a seat on Sunset's other side, patting her on the back. "Hey! It's okay! We all make mistakes! What you have to learn is to pick yourself up from those and move on with life! And now, you'll have five wonderful friends by your side!"

Her words only made Sunset cry even harder. Why are they being so nice to me? She buried her face in her hands as she cried bitterly to herself. After a few minutes of comforting, Sunset's cries were reduced to a few occasional hiccups. "I really AM sorry. Not only for nearly killing you but also for tearing...no...ripping your friendship up..." Sunset looked up at the girls.

"Aww...It's alright sugarcube, we all forgive you already! " Applejack said, earning a nod from the five girls.

"Yeah sunny! You do seem in awful need of a good friend right about now!" Pinkie beamed, hugging Sunset.

"Really? Even after what I have done to you?" Sunset whispered. She looked down at the cuts and bruises that tattooed her skin, rubbing them.

"Yes. We do!" Fluttershy said, louder than usual. Sunset felt the warmth of the girl's hugs as they embraced her tightly. Tears started to stream down her face at an unstoppable rate. "I......." Sunset gasped as they squeezed her tightly. "Shh.....It's okay! We know you are sorry." Rainbow said as tears started to fill her own eyes.

Twilight, happy that her friend were accepting towards Sunset, stood up. "Well, I guess I should get going now...." She smiled.


As they drew near the portal, Sunset decided to let them talk in private as she stayed near one of the supporting pillars of what was left of the school, but that did not stop her from hearing everything they said.

"You'll take care of her for me right? " Twilight made her friends promise her three times. She could not risk anything happening to Sunset, especially after the Fall Formal.

"Don't worry Twi! Sunset is good with us!" Rainbow said.

"Yes. But I do expect some sort of apology!" Rarity said. "Oh, I think she'll be giving loads of those!" Twilight said. "And to everyone too." She pointed at Sunset, who quickly looked away, scraping the jagged pillar of the school. "Yup, You would not need to worry."

Twilight sighed. "I just don't want her to suffer anymore than she already has....." Twilight shook her head. "Nah. I'm just overthinking. You girls are great friends! I'll probably be back after 30 moons to see how she is doing.....unless i figure out a way to travel here sooner." Twilight looked at her new friends.

"I know it has only been a while, but i'm gonna miss you all so much!" Tears started to fill the eyes of the princess as her friends shared one last hug before Twilight entered the portal just as it closed, with Spike trailing not far behind, leaving her friends to Sunset's needs. Soon after Twilight left for Equestria, the ears, tails and wings of her friends all disappeared, a look of disappointment on their faces. "Bummer!" Pinkie even muttered as she tried to enter the portal after Twilight.

After wiping their tears and regaining their composure, the five girls stared at the statue, hoping that Twilight would, indeed, return soon.

"Okay girls! Now all we have to do is help Sunset to recover and help her to fit in." Rarity said. "It can't be that hard! You girls saw how sorry she was, didn't you?" She turned around to where Sunset was waiting, but realised that Sunset was nowhere to be seen. What? she was right there!

"Where is Sunset?" Fluttershy asked as she squinted her eyes to look closer. The dust around the school was thick, but it was thin enough for the girls to see that Sunset was gone

Rainbow ran up to the rubble pile and around where they had last seen Sunset and examined it closely, behind every pillar and wall. She even went back to the hall just to check that they haven't left Sunset there, but she was nowhere to be seen. After a few minutes, she returned to see a few anxious friends looking expectantly at her. "So? Where is she?" Applejack asked.

"Uh....guys?" Rainbow began as she walked towards her friends, a look of confusion and worry etched on her face. "Sunset's not here.....She's gone!

Running away - Chapter 2

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Sunset panted as she turned the corner, trying to get as far away from the school and its students as possible. At times, she would turn back to check if anyone was following her.She finally gave running a rest as she leaned against a pole and exhaled. The night air seemed much much colder than Sunset had once remembered as she rubbed her hands together to keep warm. She sighed.

Sunset had not left the school compound intentionally. She had heard two students talking about her inside the school, within hearing distance from Sunset. They were describing how 'ugly' and 'terrifying' Sunset had looked when she was transformed into a 'raging she-demon' Unable to listen any longer, Sunset fled from school.

They are right.....No one is going to wanna accept someone like me. Tears began to fill her eyes again as she pushed the image of the five girls and Twilight to the very back of her mind only to replace it with a image of her past bullying. Sunset clutched her head as she tried to make the appearing images disappear. "Augh!" She shouted in anger. Sunset slammed her already sore hands into a nearby wall, only making the throbbing to worsen. She panted, both from the running and the pain. Sunset felt her throat go dry as she choked. Nights are sure much dryer huh? She thought after calming down from her coughing fit. Sunset began to head home. I guess the night can't be any worse.... Sunset shuddered as she heaved her sore body further down the ally.


"SUNSET!!!" Pinkie shouted as she ran around, looking frantically for Sunset. "SUUUNSEEEET!!!" She shouted again.

"Sugarcube....Ah Don't think Sunset's here no more." Applejack said, covering her ears.

The other girls all nodded. "Yeah. I agree with AJ. But Sunset was right here! She couldn't have gone far...." Rainbow Dash said, scratching her head in confusion.

"Girls. we should probably get some bed rest. We can meet in the mall tomorrow for lunch and shopping!!" Rarity said, yawning.

The girls all waved goodbye as they went their separate ways, each trying their best to absorb and process what had just happened that night


Sunset trudged home, already regretting not riding her motorcycle to the Fall Formal. She shivered as a chill ran down her spine. Well, luckily I am home now. Sunset looked at her present home, which looked more like an abandoned factory then an actual house. Sunset pushed the door open as she reached for the light switch just to her right. A small dull light flickered on as it brightened the room around Sunset. She had found this place when she first came to the mirror world and was more than happy to call it 'home' looking back, Sunset regretted running away from Equestria and the mere thought of it brought tears to her eyes.

Sunset plopped on the couch as she removed her phone from her pocket, only to see notifications of messages pop up on the screen

She DEMON!!
MONSTER!!
Stay away from me & my life!!
BULLY!

Sunset slammed her phone down on the cushion next to her as tears stung her eyes once more. She stood up, hoping some rest would help her to ease the pain, both physically and emotionally.

Sunset took a towel and some clothes to the tiny bathroom that she had just next to the living room. After undressing from her filthy tear stained clothing, Sunset turned on the water and stood underneath, immediately jumping out as the cold water stung her wounded skin. She looked at the mirror behind her and noticed two long scars running down along her shoulder blades - scars from where her wings had been. She then also noticed yet another scar near her tailbone from where her demon tail had been, regret once again flowing through her veins.

Sunset braced herself for another round of stinging as she hugged herself and stepped into the shower, letting her tears run with the water. After getting accustomed to the temperature of the water, (which was always cold) Sunset began rubbing water and soap on the areas of the body in witch she was hurt, making the pain much more bearable. That feels so much better! Sunset watched as dirt and dust swirled into the drain below her and sighed. Well, at least I'm clean now....

After a cold shower, Sunset changed into a new set of pyjamas and her shivering subsided as warmth spreaded through her body. Sunset yawned as her stomach growled she decided to have a little something to eat before going to bed.

Sunset tore open a packet of biscuits as she sat on the couch. What shall I do tomorrow? It is a Saturday after all.... Sunset munched on a biscuit. A trip to the mall might be good. I do need to stock up on some food. Sunset stopped. She sighed. I guess getting a job is on the list too.... Her money from.....taking other student's lunch money was most certainly running out and she would never dream doing that again. Sunset finished the last of her biscuits, brushed her teeth and went to her room.

Her room (or worker's quarters) had a small, cozy kind of feeling to Sunset. In the far corner of the room stood her bed, next to it was a mini dresser. On the other side of her room hung a full-length mirror that was cracked along the sides. She, after all, had found it by a garbage bin.

Sunset lay down on her bed as she closed her eyes. Hoping tomorrow would be better.


Rainbow Dash

Rainbow went home after a drive home from her car. She stepped into her house, just as her phone vibrated. She just managed to catch it before it fell out of her pocket. Ha! Nice save! rainbow smiled as she looked at who had texted her.

Hey! Meet at the mall tomorrow at 11am. Sent by Rarity
Okie! Sent by Pinkie Pie
Sure! Sent by Applejack
okay Sent by Fluttershy

Rainbow rolled her eyes. Typical. She raised her phone and began typing

See you guys there! Sent by Rainbow Dash

Rainbow sighed as she looked around the house. Hmmm...What can I do? Rainbow wasn't in the mood to sleep, not after what had just happened at the Fall Formal. Guess I'll play some video games. Rainbow shrugged as she turned on her TV.

While waiting for the game to load, Rainbow allowed her mind to wander after a minute of silence, her thoughts drifted to Sunset.

Rainbow remembered the first time she saw Sunset. Rainbow knew there was something off about her. Sunset could barely run on her feet, let alone stay balanced when someone bumped into her. Soon after, she started to bully other students - blackmailing, abusing and mocking. Sunset also started to bully Rainbow and the few times that Rainbow stood up to her, it never went well. Sunset would always ask her 'minions' to give rainbow a severe beating. Unfortunately for her, the 'minions' that Sunset 'hired' were stronger than Rainbow. BUT.....Sunset did show great remorse after the Fall Formal....She did deserve a second chance. Why wouldn't she accept it?

Rainbow shrugged as picked up her controller and started to play, pressing the buttons rapidly.


Fluttershy

Fluttershy slowly walked out of her lavender car as locked the car doors. On the way to the lift from the house, Fluttershy was greeted by many of the stray animals that came up to her. "Hello there!" She said, as she leaned in to pat the animals. There were dogs, cats and many other different critters. As she continued her walk, she waved goodbye as the lift doors shut, sending the animals scampering bach to the grassy fields.

As Fluttershy entered her home, she realised that everyone had already turned in for the night. Okay, now I'll just feed Angel and then I can sleep too. Fluttershy went into the kitchen, turning on the lights. She opened a cupboard and started looking for carrots.

"Here Angel!" Fluttershy opened the rabbit's cang door as it jumped into her arms. She laughed as her sat down on the sofa, feeding Angel and thinking about Sunset.

When I first saw Sunset, I already knew she was a bully. She shouted at everyone and liked picking on the little ones. She was especially happy when she found me, a girl too weak and gentle to defend against her. She would always find ways to bully me when neither of the girls are here. when I am walking, when I am giving out posters for the shelter, Sunset would always find me. I actually wanted to be her friend so maybe she wouldn't be so mean but I would never dare to talk to her.....But after the Fall Formal, Sunset was not scary anymore. In fact, she seemed more scared of us!

Fluttershy sighed as she locked the rabbit's cage. Well, I just hope she is willing to move on. Fluttershy turned the corner by the corridor and walked into the bathroom


Rarity

Rarity got out of her shiny car as she stepped up to her front door. She stepped in, greeting her parents as she walked up to her bedroom.

She sat on her bed as she took her phone out of her purse, quickly sending a message to the girls about tomorrow's arrangements. She then took her sketchbook and began to think of what clothes to wear and what clothed to buy. I really do need a new set of clothes since this one is already dusty due to our battle with Sunset.....Oh! Sunset! She would need new clothes too! Rarity instantly brightened up as she began to design outfits for Sunset.

When I first met Sunset.....Rarity thought. I noticed that her clothes always had the picture of a yellow and red sun. Now, I still wonder why it is so. Sunset had always been one to find something wrong with my designs and laugh at it! If only she had used that talent for spotting the smallest mistakes anyone would have missed for good, she would make a brilliant assistant for checking over my clothing!

Rarity placed her half drawn art on the table as she entered the toilet, taking her clothes off and began scrubbing them with a sponge and some soap, hoping to get rid of the stains. After ten minutes of scrubbing, Rarity decided that she would make the washing machine finish the job for her as she stepped into the shower and began scrubbing her skin too.


Pinkie Pie

Pinkie bounced into her room as a party canon burst confetti on her. Ha! That never gets old! She refilled the confetti as she thought about who she could prank in school next week.

"Ooh, ooh! I should prank Sunset!" Pinkie suddenly jumped up.No...waaaait....Sunset hasn't even BEEN to any of my parties!... Her hair instantly deflated as she began to plan a party for her new friend.

Hmm..What does Sunny like? Pinkie scratched her chin as she recalled the time when Sunset was still terrifying students in CHS. She was a major jerk! Everytime I tried to pull a prank on her, she would always confront me and say my jokes are dumb....Pinkie sighed But now, she seems a lot more accepting.... Pinkie instantly brightened up as she continued to plan Sunset's party.


Applejack

As Applejack got out of an old truck, she thanked Granny again for picking her up from the Formal.

"It's okay, jur make sure that friend Sunset of yours is well taken care orf." Granny said, winking.

Applejack stepped into the kitchen. Thinking it was still early, she decided to make a little supper for herself. While getting the ingredients, she stumbled upon and old picture of her friends all posing for a picture. It was good times....Until Sunset came.... Applejack took the photo and looked at it closely.

When Sunset first came ta CHS, me and Rainbow were the only darn ones who would stand up for Rarity, Pinkie and especially Flutters. But since the Formal, she has also shown great change...and ah bet if she tried the cider I contributed to the Formal, she would love it...And I'm willing to give her another chance, if she would stop crying enough for me ta say so... Applejack laughed as she continued to bake.

Sunset's cold, part 1(At the mall) - Chapter 3

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Sunset was in the crater again. She stumbled and crawled to the top, only to be greeted by a group of angry teenagers. "You would never rule in Equestria, any power you had in this world is gone.....And now, you would be too....." Sunset heard Twilight shout at her in utter disgust. She joined hands with her friends yet again and they, with the help of the magic of Friendship, blasted Sunset with a heavy blast of rainbow beams. Sunset felt the burn of the light as it wrapped around her, burning her skin. She saw the look of hatred in Twilight's eyes as the beam shot through her.

"Ahhh!!" Sunset shot up from her bed, drenched in cold sweat. Whew! It's just a dream....But it felt so real! Sunset shook her sore body and stretched, coughing a few times, noticing her throat was very dry. Sunset stood up as she walked to the kitchen. Drinking a huge gulp of water, she then realised that her head was hurting as well.What is going on? She felt her forehead and began to realise that it felt warmer than usual. Oh no.... Sunset went through her drawers for medicine but found none. Eh....I can probably get better by drinking lots of water. Sunset thought, thinking it was just a light fever that she had gotten due to the wind and cold water she was exposed to yesterday.

Sunset walked over to the bathroom as she did her routine of bathing and changing. She then noticed a few small rips in her leather jacket and decided that she could looked for a suitable replacement in the mall.


Sunset grabbed her old bag and put her wallet, phone and bottle inside as she make her way out of the house. She took her keys which were hanging from a hook above the shelf and swung is around as she sat down on her motorcycle.

Sunset hopped on her motorcycle as she stepped on the accelerator, leaving only dust behind. It was barely 11am when Sunset reached the mall. She jumped off the motorcycle and walked towards the mall from the carpark. As she entered the mall doors, a rush of cold wind made Sunset shiver uncontrollably as she rubbed the hands together, trying to stay warm. Why is it so cold today? The mall is not usually this cold.... Sunset rubbed her nose on the back of her hand and sniffed as she continued her way further into the mall.

Sunset looked at her list of stuff to buy. Some food, leather jacket and.....get a job.... Sunset sighed as she made her way down to the supermarket, still shivering. She walked past many shoppers as she made her way through the crowd, not noticing that, not far away, Sunset's friends were gathered there for a day of fun in the mall.


"Hey girls! So glad you all could make it!" Rarity said. "I have so much planned for us!" She grabbed her friend's hands as she pulled them to a small cloth-selling shop.

"What are ya plannin to do ta us today Rarity?" Applejack said she she scanned the shop's walls. "You wanna make new clothes for us ri?" She guessed, unamused.

"Yes...well...we haven't been friends for a long time....I'll need new measurements!" Rarity said.

The girls knew she was right. After all, they had barley even spoken face-to-face after Sunset tore them apart. "So...what are we going to do about Sunset?" rainbow asked. "I mean, there must have been something wrong if she had just ran away like that." She added.

"Yeah....I hope she's okay...." Fluttershy whispered, looking down. "And I have the perfect party planned for her!" Pinkie said, showing the girls her messy planner. "It's gonna be perfect!"

"And I do believe her clothing has sustain a lot of tearing due to the.....beam." Rarity pointed out. "I would love to help her make a new one!" She took out her notebook and pencil as she started to measure her friends' waist, shoulder and height. "Okay! I'm done!" Rarity exclaimed as she kept all the items into her purse, leaving her friends wondering how they even could fit inside such a small space.

"Okay! Now can we eat?" Rainbow complained. "We have been in here for an hour! I'm starving!" Applejack elbowed her. "Be patient!" She scolded."We will be eatin soon, you'll just have ta wait."

"Let's go girls!" Rarity said, joining them with bags of fabric that she had purchased. "Sorry for taking so long, we can go and eat now!"


Sunset walked out of the supermarked carrying a bag of cereal, fruits and water (As she did not have a kettle). Well, now all I need is a new jacket.... Sunset sighed as she walked to a nearby bench to sort out her items. She removed her wallet and looked inside, counting her money.Ten....Five....Twenty.... Sunset realised that she had a little over fifty dollars. I hope that's enough.... She placed everything into her bag. Upon checking the time, Sunset realised that it was already noon. Guess I'll have lunch here too....

As she stood up, a wave of nausea hit her as she tried to keep her balance. Sitting down again, she rubbed the head and groaned. Why do I feel so tired? Sunset coughed a few more times before she stood up again, this time, not falling over. She grabbed her plastic bag as she walked to the escalator. "Ah...choo!" Sunset sneezed as she stood on the escalator. She rubbed her nose as she felt another sneeze coming. "Ah...choo! Ah....AH...CHOO!!" Sunset sniffed a few times before zipping up her broken jacket in an attempt to stop her shivering.

Sunset stumbled off the escalator, still rubbing her nose. Why is this happening to me? She wandered as she sneezed three more times into her sleeve. Sunset leaned against a pillar to make sure that she did not fall over as she decided what to do next. Should I eat here, or should I go home and eat some salad that I can make with the stuff I bought? She decided that she had better return home as she started to cough violently.


"What do you guys wanna eat?" Rainbow said the group walked around the mall. "Ah thought you were the hungry one, Rainbow. Ya mean u don't know what ya wanna eat?" Applejack mused as she looked towards her friend.

"No, I just wanted to make sure that you guys have the chance to chose, since I'm not really picky with food. But I know Rarity is. So you should ask her!" Rainbow replied, making Rarity turn red in embarrassment. "Eh heh....I'm good with anything..." Rarity said.

"Okay then! Let's go eat pizza!" Pinkie shouted, causing shoppers to look at them. "Erm...that's okay with all of you guys right?" She said, lowering her voice. "Uh huh." The girls nodded.

As they made there way to the pizza restaurant, talking and laughing as they walked towards their destination, they bumped into the last person that they had expected to see in the mall. Sunset Shimmer. "Hey, ain't that Sunset?" Applejack asked as she pointed to a figure not far away from them. "Yeah, sure looks like Sunset..." Fluttershy answered timidly. "Let's go talk to her, we can find out why she ran away like that yesterday!" Rainbow smiled. "Come on!"

The girls happily walked over to where Sunset was standing, glad to see that she was there. But the moment they saw how she looked, all their face changed from happy and smiling to ones of worry.


"Erm....Sunset?" Applejack was the first to approach her friend. "Gah!!" Sunset shouted, jumping back by a few inches. "Woah...you scared me there..." She said hoarsely after she steadied herself. "Are you okay darling?" Rarity asked, looking at her friend closely. "Yeah? Why?" Sunset cleared her throat before speaking. "Erm...Are you sure? Because,,,you don't look so good...." Pinkie said, frowning.

"What do you mean?" Sunset croaked. "I'm fine..." She rubbed her sore nose and looked up at her friends. "Erm....you don't sound fine nor do you look fine...." Rainbow said. "Look?" Sunset managed to say. "Yes, Sunset..." Rarity said as she took out a pocket mirror from her bag, letting Sunset look at her own reflection.

Rainbow was right. Sunset's eyes had bags under them and her cheeks were pink. But the worst part was Sunset's nose. She had rubbed it so hard that it had turned blood-red. Sunset sighed as she looked away. "Its nothing...just...allergies" Sunset made up an excuse. "Sunset. Ah think we all know that you ain't allergic to nothin." Applejack crossed her arms. Sunset felt her eyes fill with tears as she opened her mouth to speak. But instead of words coming out, Sunset launched into yet another round of loud coughing. Sensing that their friend was in discomfort, the girls led Sunset to a nearby bench to sit down.

Petting Sunset's back as her coughing died down, Fluttershy finally spoke, breaking the tension. "Sunset? Are you sure you are okay?" She asked. "You sure don't seem like your usual self..." Sunset refused to looked up at her friends. "You mean the horrible demon that roamed the school halls scaring students?" Sunset choked on her words as she started to sob uncontrollably, tears and snot flowing down her face.

"No...that's not what I meant..." Fluttershy gasped, her eyes filling with tears as well. She hugged Sunset, letting Sunset cry into her shoulder. Rainbow sat down next to Sunset. "Sh....It's okay Sunny...." The rest of the girls also helped to comfort Sunset as she continued to cry for what seemed like forever.

After some time, Sunset's cried stopped enough for her to speak. "I...." She began, before coughing violently, making her friends wince as the coughing wrecked Sunset's feeble body. "Sunset?" Rarity began, slowly. "What happened?" Sunet sighed. "Well...after you guys went to say goodbye to Twilight....I heard Two students that I have bullied before call me things like 'she demon' and 'monster'....."Sunset stopped to wipe her eyes, her friends looked pitifully at her. "Well, so I ran away from school....but I got lost and could not find my way, erm....home...." Sunset rubbed her nose.

"Darling...no wonder you are sick." Rarity said. "It was really cold yesterday, wasn't it?" Sunset looked at at her and nodded. "And...I don't really have hot water to bathe in as I am technically homeless....."

"WHAT?!?!" Sunset's friends shouted as they tried to process what Sunse had just said. "Really?" Rainbow asked. "You really have no place to stay?" She stared at Sunset with eyes as large as plates. "Yes...I mean, I do have somewhere to stay, but it's more of a abandoned factory than an actual place to call home, but it is nice there..." Sunset sniffed loudly.

"Darling....we had no idea....Tell you what, we are each going to let you stay at our houses until you recover and get back on your feet!" Rarity said, her friends behind her all agreed. "You guys really don't have to..." Sunset covered her mouth with her elbow as she sneezed. "Ah...ah...choo! Ah....choo! AH.....CHOO!" She sniffed just as Pinkie offered her a tissue. "You poor thing....I've never seen anyone as sick as you Sunny...." Sunset took the tissue and blew her nose loudly as she sneezed again into the tissue. "Thanks for the offer...but I can't. It's asked too much of you guys...especially after what I had done to you guys....."

"Look, Sunset, now many times do we have to tell you that we have already forgiven you?" Rainbow hugged her friend. "For the rest of the week and the next, you'll stay at my house, we'll have a slumber party. My parents are away on a business trip so my house is pretty much free for you to stay!" Rainbow said, before she added sternly,"And no denying, you are going to stay until you get better!" Sunset's eyes fogged up again as she hugged Rainbow. "Thank you! Thank you, all of you...."


As they six of them reached the car park, they all huddled around Sunset, trying to keep her warm. Sunset was deeply grateful as even though the sun was shining down on them, Sunset felt as though they were at the North-pole.

"Sunset, where's your ride?" rainbow asked as she scanned the lots. "There..." Sunset muttered as she pointed to her motorcycle. "Whoa, Sunny, who knew you rode that?" Pinkie said. "Uh...Flash and I found it at an old dumpster and we fixed it up for my use...."

"No prob!" Rainbow said. "We can leave in outside my house until recover enough to use it." Sunset nodded, knowing Rainbow was right. I'll probably fall right off the moment I get on....I can't even walk a few feet without the girls' help...

As Sunset climbed into Rainbow's car, she watched from the window as her friends slowly and carefully lifted her motorcycle and carried it towards Rainbow's car. I am so lucky to always have them by by side.... Sunset thought as she closed her eyes, drifting off to sleep.

Sunset's cold, part 2(At Rainbow's house) - Chapter 4

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"Hey Sunny! Get up!!" Sunset opened her eyes to see Rainbow Dash shaking her awake. "We're here!" Sunset stood up as she tried to walked a few steps, immediately regretting it as she fell into her friends' arms. "Woah there Sunset. Careful!" Applejack said, catching Sunset by her arms and pulling her up. "Leave the walking to us Sunset." Rarity smiled as she stood at Sunset's other side. As they slowly made their way to Rainbow's main door, Sunset felt tears streaming down her cheeks once more as she sniffed.

"Hey, why are you crying Sunny?" Pinkie asked, worried. "Thank you!" Sunset said. "Thank you all for being there for me...." Sunset's friends smiled. "That's what friends are for, Sunset. You don't have to keep thanking us." Fluttershy said as she looked at Sunset happily, making Sunset cry harder. "How? How do you guys forgive me after what I have done?" Sunset couldn't help but asked softly.

"Aw... that's easy Sunset. We just thought that you deserve another chance to shine and change. We knew that there was a different Sunset in you, a better you that we could bring out." Applejack said, wiping a tear off Sunset's face as Rainbow opened the door to her apartment. "Woah...you live her Rainbow?" Sunset gasped, regretting the moment the rush of air reached her lungs, starting another coughing fit.

"Yeah, pretty neat, huh." Rainbow took Sunset by her shoulder as she led Sunset to her couch, right in front of the telly. "Lie down." Rainbow instructed as she placed a pillow down. "You rest here and we'll go get some lunch." She covered a shivering Sunset with a thick blanket as she turned to her friends. "Okay. So we are getting pizza right? There is a place we can go not far from here." Her friends nodded in agreement.

"Erm.... Rainbow?" Sunset waved her hand, trying not to strain her sore throat. "I only eat vegetables...." Sunset came from Equestria, where she spent her days there eating hay and fruits so naturally, she carried the same eating habits here. "Oh right!" Rainbow said."Nearly forgot! I'll get you mushroom pizza then." Sunset nodded. "You just rest here okay?" Rarity said. "Pinkie has already saved our numbers in your phone so you can call us if you need anything!" Sunset smiled. "You guys have already done so much....I can't ask for anything else...."

"It's okay Sunny, you really need our help now!" Pinkie said. "It's what friends do! We look out for one another!" Sunset felt her eyes filling again she sniffed. "Oh yeah, Sunset, here's a box of tissues." Applejack said as she took a box off the shelf and passed it to Sunset, who took it and placed it next to her. Taking out one, she blew her nose into it. "Thanks..." She rubbed her nose with the back of her hand and laid down on the couch, sighing.

As her friends left to buy some food, Sunset leaned against the pillow and stared out of the window. I sure am lucky to have friends like these, forgiving, kind, loving.......I don't deserve them. Sunset's mind wandered to the times when she had started to bully and threaten them.

Well, they seemed like the closest and most trusting group of friends that CHS had.....I knew that they did everything together and never left anyone of them out of the picture......until I came along......Rainbow Dash and Applejack were always the one who stood up for the group when I came along. I always did admire the courage that they had as other students would just give in to my orders....Well, so I decided that if I really wanted to pull them apart, I first had to get those two girls to stop standing up for the whole group by splitting apart their friendship.....So I messed up the date that the netball gream was supposed to show up and boy did it work well, Applejack got so mad that she stopped talking to Rainbow entirely! So then, it became easier to.....tear them apart.... Sunset remembered bitterly.

Soon, I made them hate each other so much that they went to the extent of avoiding one another in the hallways! I am lucky Twilight bought them back together.....if not, Equestria would probably be in a state of distress...... Sunset turned away from the cushions and stared blankly at Rainbow's television. I had always been amazed by this world's items when I first arrived....moving stairs, controllers and the sheer idea that they ate other animals! I was especially shocked with new new hooves when I first stumbled out of the mirror. Sunset smiled to herself as she closed her tired eyes, hoping to get a little more rest before the girls came back.


"Sunset?" Rainbow opened the door and stared at the couch. "Hey guys! Sunset's asleep, try no to wake her!" She whispered. "Okay!" Pinkie whispered back loudly, causing her friends to stare at her angrily. "What?" She smiled, shrugging.

Rainbow and Applejack placed the many boxes of pizzas on the table as they joined their friend on the floor near where Sunset was sleeping. "So uh...should ah wake her?" She pointed to Sunset, who appeared to be sleeping peacefully. "No, of course not! You saw how tired she was in the mall! She needs her beauty sleep!" Rarity whisper-shouted back. "Yeah, I think we should let her wake up by herself.....erm, if that's okay...." Fluttershy said softly.

"Wow! Sunset only has fifty-six on her!" Pinkie said, softer than usual, waving Sunset's wallet in the air. "Pinkie! You are not allowed to go through Sunset's items without her permission!" Rarity scolded. "Yeah, but what would you say about this?' Pinkie said, pulling Sunset's leather jacket out. "Oh my!" Rarity said a bit too loudly, slapping her hand over her mouth. "Sorry....I mean....Oh my....." She took the jacket from Pinkie's hands and looked at it closely. "Hm...I should be able to fix it with the new fabric that I bought today." She pointed to her plastic bag full of leather. "I did buy some leather as well, plus know exactly what leather Sunset wears!"

"How in the world did you find out?" Applejack couldn't help asking. "Well, I did kind of study and feel her jacket yesterday at the formal, when we were walking to the hall to dance...." Rarity replied, blushing. "Good thing too, now I can help her to mend it and she wouldn't have to spend the little amount of money she has left buying a new one!" Rarity began to sit a a corner as she worked on stitching Sunset's jacket together.

"So.....I was thinking we could hold a party for Sunny one of these days both to celebrate our new friendship and her coming to join our awesome group!" Pinkie suddenly said loudly, causing Sunset to wake up


'Huh? What?" Sunset sat up on the couch as she stared at her friends, who were all glaring at Pinkie. "Sorry 'bout that Sunset, Pinkie here was just makin a little too much noise." Applejack explained. "Oh, it's okay, I should probably get up anyway...." Sunset muttered as she tried to stand up, instantly falling down.

"Woah, woah! Careful!" Rainbow shouted as she stood up to catch Sunset. "You should sit. I'll get the food for ya!" rainbow said as she walked into the kitchen to get a plate. "Ah....choo! Ah...choo!" Sunset sniffed as she pulled a piece of tissue out of the box.

"Are you feeling any better?" Fluttershy asked as she looked up worriedly as Sunset blew her nose. "Huh? Erm....not really....my head is hurting more in fact...." She sighed and looked up at Rainbow, who handed her a plate and a cup. "Here's your pizza, I also poured you some warm water that may help to sooth your throat. Come on, you can sit at the table!" Rainbow pulled Sunset up and pulled out a chair for her. "Thank you....." Sunset said. "Really."

"Hey, Sunny, do you really only have fifty-six dollars on you?" Pinkie said as Applejack elbowed her. Sunset looked down. "Yeah....it is...." She said softly. "But it is not really mine either....it's the lunch money that I stole over the years..." She sniffed and looked down. "I don't think it would even had been enough...." She added to herself, loud enough for everyone to hear. "Enough for what?" Rainbow asked. Sunset scratched the back of her neck as she said "A new leather jacket....the one I have is broken and I....." Sunset coughed a few times, sniffing as she reached over to drink the water Rainbow held out for her.

"Not to worry dear!" Rarity walked up to Sunset, hiding her mended leather jacket behind her. "As you may know, I love nothing more than fixing broken clothing....." Sunset's eyes widened as Rarity pulled out the jacket and handed it to Sunset, how looked at it closely, realising that it was as good as new. "How....how..." Sunset gasped as tears stung her tired eyes. She looked up gratefully at her friends as tears of gratitude flowed down the sides of her cheeks.

Rarity smiled as she hugged Sunset, "just my little way of saying, welcome to the group." Sunset hugged her back tightly, tears streaming down her face as her friends watched the entire scene unfold. "Aw......" Pinkie said, wiping away one of her own tears. "Okay guys....can we eat now?" Rainbow said as she walked out of the kitchen with five more plates of pizza. "I think we are All hungry now!"

As the girls dug into their meals, they all realised that Sunset had really worked up an appetite. "Hey Shimmer, you really are hungry huh?" Rainbow said as Sunset reached out to grab another piece. "Heh heh....." Sunset lowered her hand. "Well, I haven't actually eaten anything other than salad and fruits since I came to this world...." She looked down, hating the looks of sympathy that showed on her friend's faces.

"Really? Well, in that case, you should eat more Sunset." Rainbow said as she placed another slice on Sunset's plate. "I was just joking about what I said." Sunset smiled as she ate her food, glad that she always had her friends there, looking out for her.


Well, that was some nice food...." Applejack said as she checked her watch. It read 4pm. Everyone stood up as Rainbow look the dishes to the kitchen to wash. "Yup...one of the best I've had....." Sunset said as she sat down on the couch, suddenly feeling nauseous. "Oh......" She groaned as she crossed her arms in front of her. "Are you okay?" Fluttershy asked as she place her arm on Sunset's shoulder. "I.....I...." Sunset began as her heart raced inside her. She stood up, ignoring Fluttershy's question as she raced to the bathroom, slamming the door and leaning down against the toilet bowl. Why is this happening? Sunset thought as her lunch shot up her throat and out of her mouth. "Ow...." She muttered as she leaned forwards again, spewing out more food.

"Sunset?" Sunset heard Rainbow's voice through the door. "Are you...." Sunet heard her open the door and gasp. "Darling...." Rarity whispered as she stared down at Sunset, who was still holding on to the rims of the seat, panting loudly. Sunset slowly stood up, wiping her mouth with a tissue and flushed the toilet.

"I....don't feel so good...." She said as she stumbled forward. "Sunset, I think we need to bring you to a hospital to get you checked." Applejack said as she took Sunset's shivering hand. "Yeah....I think so...." Sunset said as she walked on slowly to the door. "I'll get you a bag for the drive! In case you get sick again!" Pinkie said enthusiastically, rummaging through her bag. "Here!" She said, handing Sunset a plastic bag. "Thanks..." Sunset said as she coughed into her hand, wearing her newly patched up leather jacket.

"Come on!" Rainbow said as she led Susnet to her car. "Here, I know a place not far from here! My mom always brings me there when I get sick!" Sunset nodded gratefully at Rainbow as she sat down once again inside Rainbow's car.

During the drive, Sunset's friends got to know a little more about their friend. "So....Where did you stay when you were living in Equestria?" Rarity asked. "Did you stay in a castle like Twilight?" "Yeah...." Sunset said. "I did....." She blinked the tears out of her eyes as the memory bought back how she had betrayed the princess as it flashed in her mind. "But I was not what Celestia thought I was.....I was not the one she was looking for......Twilight was.......I, on the other hand, abandoned my studies for power because I wanted more of it." Sunset looked out of the window as her friends looked as her with blank expressions on their faces.

"Really?" Pinkie asked as Sunset turned to face them. "Yes, I thought that I deserved the right to be a princess too and I craved power over others. So when I learned about the mirror here, I instantly wanted to know more about this 'other dimension'. When Celestia said I wasn't ready, I got mad and ran away here to find out myself......" Sunset looked away again as she remembered the times she had spent with her mentor.

"Well, at least you are sorry." Rainbow said, hating the silence. "You have changed so much! Stop holding on to the past!" She said as she drove into her car park. "You are a better person now, we all think so!" Rainbow added as she parked her car. "Now, let's bring you for a check-up!"

Sunset's cold ,part 3 (At the clinic) - Chapter 5

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As the six girls walked in through the front doors of the clinic, another blast of cold wind made Sunset shiver uncontrollably as her friends struggled to help her keep her balance as Rainbow Dash and Rarity went to help Sunset get a queue number. "Here!" Pinkie said as she led Sunset to a seat not too far away. "You sit here and wait for it to be your turn!" Sunset sat down and sighed, sneezing a few times. "I hate being sick!" Sunset groaned as she clutched her stomach, which was still sore from all the food that she had thrown up.

"Heck yeah! It's the worst feelin ever!" Applejack agreed as she patted Sunset's back. "Okay! We got a number!" Rainbow said as she walked up to where the girls were sitting. "We are number 54." She said as she motioned to Rarity to come over. "So, have you ever visited a doctor before?" Rainbow asked as she sat down. "Not exactly......no." Sunset replied hoarsely. "At least not in this world." She shook her head. "Well, the doc would just check your pulse and maybe stick something down your throat to check." Rainbow said. "But it's not as bad as it seems....." Fluttershy added when Sunset's eyes widened in horror.

"Number 54!" A voice shouted through the clinic via a speaker. "Come Sunny!" Pinkie shouted. "We'll wait for you out here!" Sunset nodded as she stood up and walked towards the open door, coughing. "See you later!!!" Pinkie shouted again as the door shut behind Sunset.


"So....you are Sunset Shimmer?" The doctor said, not looking up from the table. "Yes....." Sunset said. "Okay....so you have a slight fever, sore throat and a runny nose?" The doctor asked again, now looking up. "Yes?" Sunset said, wondering how the doctor knew.

"Okay. Now, I want you to open your mouth while I check your throat." The doctor said as he wheeled his chair over to Sunset. "Okay...." Sunset opened her mouth as she felt a stick being stuck into her mouth. "Okay...." The doctor said as he sat back down on the chair. "So, when did your cold start?" He said. "Erm...." Sunset looked up and thought to herself. Hmmm, did it start at the night of the Formal or today? "Erm...I think yesterday night? When I was walking home in the wind?" Sunset said.

"Uh huh....." The doctor ran though a few more tests including checking her heartbeat. "Okay, I want you to breathe in deeply and hold." The doctor said as he placed the stethoscope on Sunset's back. Sunset closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, immediately regretting it as the air got caught in her throat as she launched into another coughing fit, this time, it lasted for a longer time than the others. The doctor, however, did not seem to mind as she started to write some notes down on his wad of papers.

After awhile, the doctor turned towards Sunset. "Okay, you would find some medication on the counter outside, a bottle each for your fever, cough, cold and vomiting. I suggest you stay indoors for a few days, as well as eat nutritious food as you are suffering from malnutrition. But in moderation as your stomach is still weak. " Sunset nodded. "Okay..." She croaked as she took a few slips of papers from the doctor. "Also, I would suggest that you do not go to school on Monday and Tuesday, I have written MCs for you on those days." Sunset nodded again as the doctor handed her a mask. "Wear this to prevent spreading your sickness to others." He said, opening the door for Sunset.


"Sunset!" Pinkie instantly ran up to Sunset the moment she walked out. "Hello Rainbow Dash!" The doctor smiled,greeting the rainbow haired girl. "Hey doc! How was Sunset?" Rainbow had always been a regular at the clinic, complaining about sore arms and broken limbs everytime her soccer training gets out of hand.

"She is doing fine." The doctor said. "But.....she would need to rest well and stay indoors as much as possible. It is also advisable that she skip school on Monday and Tuesday. By then, she should have recovered enough to be herself again." The girls nodded. "Ya hear that, Sunset?" Applejack turned to her friend, who was shivering slightly from the air-con. "Huh? Yeah...yeah..." Sunset said as she rubbed her hands together. "Ah....choo! Ah..ah..choo!!" Sunset started to shiver violently as Rarity helped to zip Sunset's jacket up. "You girls really know how to take care of her! You are lucky to have friends like these." The doctor smiled at Sunset as she rubbed her nose with a tissue. "I guess...." Sunset muttered as she blew her nose.

I don't deserve it..... Sunset thought for the hundredth time as her friends stopped her from paying for the meds with her own cash, insisting that they helped to pay for them instead. They are so nice to me, it stings! Ever since I came to CHS, and started to meddle with their friendship, life became a living nightmare for them...... Sunet looked up at her friends, who were looking at her worriedly, trying their best to keep her warm. And after the Formal, they are the total opposite of what I have expected from them - forgiveness. They took me in like they have known me as a friend for years, acted like I haven't done any harm to them...... Sunset watched as her friends each took out a bit of money to pay for the medicine, completely denying that Sunset even spent a cent on it.

I am the cause of their sorrow and hurts. I an dangerous towards them, I will hurt them again, I just know it! I have to get away, away, far away, so I can't hurt them anymore. Sunset looked up at her friends, who were walking back to her, medicine in hand, as she blinked back tears.

Run, I must run, to keep them from me, to keep them safe from a demon that could, no....would hurt them........

Without warning, Sunset suddenly took off running towards the clinic doors, leaving her friends in utter shock. With fresh tears streaming down her face, Sunset made a fast dash towards the door. "Sunset!!!" Pinkie shouted. "Hey! Where are you going!" But, Sunset was already miles away, unable to hear her friends frantic voices as they tried to call her back.

"Where do you think Sunset went?" Rainbow asked as the girls dashed out of the clinic and onto the streets. "She couldn't have gone far....." Applejack whipped out her phone. "Ah reckon I could track Sunset down, her phone is on her and ah have done somethin close to connectin our phones together, you know, I was scared she would run away again." Applejack slowed down as she began to track Sunset.


Not too far away, Sunset stopped next to a wall, sighing. Sure hope the girls don't find me again, I'm too much of a burden in there lives anyway, in fact, I'm a burden in everyone's lives Sunset rubbed her nose on the back of her hand, coughing slightly. Ooh.......I really shouldn't have ran that fast.... Sunset clutched her stomach as it started to hurt once more, signalling for her to swat down and breathe before she had another 'accident'.

Sunset stood up after a while, the pain subsiding from the rest she had. She leaned against the wall of the alley, closing she eyes and breathing in deeply. Well, at least I'm not their problem now.... Sunset thought as she visualised the looks of reliefs on her friend's faces that they wouldn't have to carry another on their shoulders. But, not far away, was a group of worried girls, frantically trying to find their lost friend.


"Where is she? What's taking so long?!" Rarity asked impatiently. "Almost....." Applejack said as she held up her phone. "Yes! Ah got her!" Applejack waved her phone around. "Sound's good!" Rainbow said, snatching the phone and studying it carefully. "Let's go!"

"Wow! How did Sunset run so far?" Fluttershy said as the group looked at the phone. "Yeah! Won't Sunny get sick again if she runs so much?" Pinkie said, causing yet another wave of panic within the girls. "Then we should hurry!" Rainbow urged, "The sooner we leave, the better! For all we know, she may have fainted!" That last sentence made everyone instantly start running towards where Sunset's phone was located.


"Ah....choo! Ah....ah...choo! AH....CHOO!" Sunset sneezed into her hands as she sniffed loudly. Ugh......I should have bought some tissues with me.... Sunset wiped her nose on her hand and moaned as she coughed roughly, causing her to wince in pain as the air shot through her sore throat. Oww......now even coughing hurts...what is going on? Sunset continued to walk forward slowly, not noticing that her phone had fallen out of her pocket due to her kneeling down a few moments ago.


"Here, she should have been right here!" Applejack said as she stood in the narrow alley. "This is where the tracker states she is!" The girls looked around, discovering a small rectangular object laying face down on the ground. "Hey, isn't that Sunset's phone? " Fluttershy asked as she picked it up. "Yeah! It sure is!" Pinkie said. "It's still quite warm, meaning it must have fallen out of Sunset's pocket just moments ago." Fluttershy said as her friend continued to run down the alley, panting as sweat ran down the sides of their cheeks.


Sunset turned a corner, just to be stopped by a group of familiar looking faces. "What do you think you were doing? Running off like that, you had us so worried!" Rainbow shouted in anger and relief. Sunset stopped dead in her tracks, thinking about what Rainbow had just said as she looked at the frantic expressions on her friend's faces. Th....they were.....wor.....worried? But I thought...... There was a moment of silence before hot tears started to roll down Sunset's face as she collapsed on Rainbow's shoulder, unstoppable tears running down her face. Her friends, stunned by her actions, only took a while to recover before they started to comfort their sobbing friend.

"What were you doing? Why did you run?" Rainbow repeated her question, this time, more comforting than angry. "I.....I...." Sunset tried to speak but her words were stuck in her throat, unwilling to come out. "It's okay.....take your time....." Fluttershy said, patting Sunset's shoulder. "I.....thought....I was a......a....." Sunset couldn't get herself to finish the sentence as more tears stung her eyes. "Yes, darling?" Rarity asked as he handed Sunset a tissue. "You can tell us, we are your friends". 'Friends'. There it was, the 'F' word, it made Sunset sob even harder. I don't believe it..... As much as Sunset wanted to, she could not understand how these girls, the ones she hurt, split apart, were actually caring for her. Why? The question lingered as Sunset wiped her tears.

"Do you girls really forgive me?" Sunset said as her crying stopped. "Tell me the truth. Do you guys accept me as a real friend, or as a burden that Princess Twilight handed to you?" The question made the five girls inhale sharply as they shared knowing looks. "We ARE your really friends Sunny!" Pinkie said. "For real!" Sunset looked up. "Really? Even after I insulted every party you ever planned, even when I bullied you guys? Even after I split you apart? Even after I tried to kill you?!" Sunset was now shouting, she felt her eyes filling up again as she looked at each and every one of her friend's shocked faces. Ha! I knew it! They are treating me like a charity case! Someone that they take care of just because they want attention Twilight. Just because Twilight asked them to! Sunset turned away and blinked, sending two drops of tears to run down her face.

Just as Sunset turned to face her friends again, what they did next was unsexpected. They all leaned forward, hugging Sunset, telling her that they truly cared again and again and again, until their words sunk deep into Sunset's mind, replaying over and over again. "Look," Pinkie had said. "Without you bullying and splitting up the whole school, along with bringing the crown here, we would never have learnt the magic of friendship, the magic within us that we could share, we would never have been this close, ever! Without what you have done, Sunset, we would never have made such a brilliant friend like you Sunset. So view it as a good thing and, we All forgive you, multiple times, for everything you had done."

Sunset replayed it again and again inside her mind as the group of six walked slowly towards Rainbow's car, smiles on each of their faces, with Sunset's being the biggest and brightest.

Sunset's cold ,part 4 (The first night) - Chapter 6

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6pm, Saturday
As soon as they reached Rainbow's house, the five girls insisted that Sunset took her medicine immediately. "Okay...so you need to take your cough and cold meds every 7 hours, your fever meds every 5 hours and......your vomiting meds every day..... You would have to do so until you recover." Rarity read out as Fluttershy worked on taking out the tablets.

"Thanks guys..." Sunset said, losing her voice. Must be from the sore throat.... "Really, thanks! I don't know what I'll do without you guys, especially after the Fall F...." Sunset said. "Darling!" Rarity cut in. "Talking about it wouldn't help the situation!" She passed a few pills to Sunset. "The white, round ones are for your fever, the yellow ones are for your throat and the pink ones are for your cold." Sunset stared at the little round objects. Okay! Gross! She looked up. "And the other one?" She asked.

"The vomiting medys is in liquid form." Fluttershy said as she brought a spoon from the kitchen. "Ugh...." Sunset gagged as she swallowed the liquid, hoping the pills would not taste as bad. "Here!" Rainbow said as she held up some water. "This helps!" Sunset took a huge gulp of water, washing down the remaining liquids stuck on the inner layers of her mouth as she stared at the remaining pills. "So....how do I....?" she looked at the pills. Ugh...how do humans live like this?!?! Sunset remembered the last time she had fallen sick back in Equestria. Geez, the medicine there did not taste this bad......

"You swallow them! with water!" Pinkie said. "Duh!" Sunset looked at the pills again, tipping the yellow one into her throat, washing it down with water. Huh, that was easy... "Whoa! How did you swallow that without gagging or wincing?" Rainbow said. "I can never get those things to stay down! Those bitter things would get stuck in my mouth until they fully dissolve and the bitterness stays in there for days!"

Sunset looked up at her friend, now noticing a slight tinge of the pill's bitter after-taste. "It's common for us in Equestria I guess....I hardly chew the hay before I swallow. Guess I'm used to the feeling? I mean, I always had to fight for the last piece of hay with my family so cramming them down my throat was not a choice." With that, Sunset tipped the remanding pills down her throat and, again, swallowed them with ease.

"Okay! So...what do you guys wanna eat?" Pinkie said as she walked out of the kitchen. " She pointed towards the cupboards, "Wow Dashi, you have loads of food at home. I can whip up anything!" Rainbow blushed as she spoke. "Eh...heh heh....Well, I think we'll keep dinner simple" She replied, looking at Sunset, winking. "This girl can't overeat, if not, we'll have another catastrophe." Sunset glared at Rainbow before bursting out in laughter.


7pm, Saturday
Soon, Pinkie Pie came out of the kitchen with six bowls of steaming hot food, expertly balancing them on her hands and legs, earning a round of applause from her friends. "Thank you. thank you." Pinkie said as she tipped the bowls onto the table, pulling out the chairs for the girls to sit and eat.

"Wow!" Rainbow said as she gobbled the food. "I almost forgot how good your cooking tastes!" Sunset looked at her food and sighed, pushing her bowl loaded with vegetables away. "I'm not hungry......." She croaked. rubbing her throat. "Aww...." Pinkie's hair instantly deflated as she went sat down at her own seat and started eating. "Darling, at least a bit?" Rarity asked as she pushed the bowl back in front of Sunset.

"Fine....." Sunset lifted her spoon and brought it to her mouth, chewing and swallowing. Oh wow! This tastes so good! Sunset tried not to show how much she liked the food, but she could not seem to hide her smile. "Told ya!" Rainbow said as Sunset ate another spoonful. "I guess....." Sunset said as she smiled. "You are a really awesome cook, Pinkie!" Sunset admitted as she reached over to eat another spoon.

After dinner, Applejack suggested that they watched a movie together, as this was this first sleepover since years ago. As Rainbow and Applejack fought over what movie to watch, Rarity and Fluttershy spoke to Sunset as Pinkie washed the dishes in the kitchen. "So, how are you feeling?" Fluttershy asked. "Eh, never better, you girls are such nice friends to me, I can't be any more grateful, really." Rarity nodded as she looked at hoe Sunset was not leaning against the couch. "Why don't you lean back? It is much more comfortable." Sunset shook her head. "Nah..." She looked away, trying to think of another subject that she could bring up to stop Rarity from asking her next question. "Why darling?"

Sunset sighed as she looked Rarity and fluttershy in the eyes. "Well, that day at the formal...." Sunset began, wincing slightly, "I was literally transformed into a demon. So, when you girls changed me back, the wings and tail were, you know, ripped off me.....with so much force that it left scars that still hurt......" Sunset rubbed her hands together as Rarity and Fluttershy made sense of what she had just said. "So, they left scars that hurt very badly?" Fluttershy asked as Sunset nodded. "Yes. They were bleeding ." Before the next question could be asked, Rainbow and Applejack finally decided on what movie to watch that night.

As the movie started to play, Pinkie came out of the kitchen and sat down next to her friends on the couch. "Ooh! What are we watching?" Rainbow laughed as she pulled Pinkie down. "Wait and see!" Pinkie rolled her eyes as she sat down. "Finnnne! But it better be good!" Rainbow nudged her friend. "It would be!" She promised.

The movie had barely started when Sunset felt the drowsiness effect of the medicine she had taken. Woah...this thing is strong..... Sunset felt her eyelids get heavier and heavier as she looked at her friends, who were enjoying themselves, laughing at the movie that was currently being played, Sunset smiled and laid back. Well, I guess I am lucky. Sunset smiled, remembering the doctor's words, how she ran off and the look of worry in her friend's faces when they found her. They really want to be....no....they are my best friends. Sunset laid back and coughed slightly as she closed her eyes, falling into deep sleep.


9pm, Saturday
"Ha ha!" Pinkie laughed as she watched the movie. "That was hilarious! What do you think Sunny?" Pinkie looked towards Sunset when she heard no answer. Everyone had been so engrossed in the movie that not even a single one of them had noticed that Sunset had fallen asleep. "Ah guess the runnin earlier took a huge part outta her." Applejack said as she stared at her snoring friend. "Yeah, guess so." Rainbow said as she looked at Sunset. "Wow, she sure does look beat!"

"Should we try to wake her?" Fluttershy asked as she switched of the TV, not wanting to disturb Sunset. "Nah, ah think it's about time we sleep too."Applejack said, yawning. "It's 9pm already anyway...." She added. The girls nodded as they went to get some sleeping bags. They had decided to sleep next to Sunset, who would sleep on the couch while they slept on the rug in sleeping bags.

"Night everyone!" Pinkie shouted as everyone changed and got ready for sleep. "Night!"

Everyone laid back into the warmth of the sleeping bags, each of them to awake to fall asleep. The five of them stared at the ceiling while they ran through what had just that day, from meeting Sunset at the mall, to the trip to the clinic, and now the slumber party that they were having.

Thoughts, thoughts and more thoughts - Chapter 7

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Rainbow Dash
Rainbow twisted and turned in her sleeping bag. Man! I really want my bed now!!! Rainbow knew that her bedroom was just down the hallway but, one, she was too lazy to walk there. Two, she was (again) too lazy to think of an excuse to give her friends when they found her not sleeping with them. Ah, well, it's not that bad.... Rainbow looked to her friends, who she knew were having as much trouble sleeping as much as she did. The tossing gave them away.

Huh...today was....interesting.... Rainbow nodded to herself. Who knew a planned trip to the mall would lead out to this? She looked over to where Sunset was sleeping. First her, what else would go wrong and crazy. Then, Rainbow's mind drifted to the taste of Pinkie's homemade food with the ingredients made from only those in her kitchen. Huh, I didn't know Pinkie was such a good cook! Few years back she surely wasn't that good.... Rainbow had completely forgotten how

Yup! Weirdest day EVER! She turned and looked towards her friends. Then again... She thought. It was kinda nice to finally see Sunset so vulnerable.... She smiled as she remembered the times that Sunset bullied her. Huh! I never thought her spirit would ever burn out! Rainbow covered her upper body with the bag as she closed her eyes, trying to fall asleep.


Fluttershy
Fluttershy turned gently in the sleeping bag, not wanting to wake everyone up. Little did she know that none of them but Sunset was really sleeping. I hope that I am not too loud... Fluttershy thought as she turned again, trying to get comfortable. She turned towards Sunset, who was snoring slightly with ragged breathing. Aww...poor thing..... Fluttershy remembered the feeling of absolute pity run through her as she saw Sunset in the mall looking like....that.

Ooh it was awful....I always hated it when angel looked that sick but Sunset did look much much worse.... Fluttershy shuddered at the mere memory of Sunset's appearance when they met at the mall. Horrible, just horrible. Fluttershy could not find another word to describe it.

Fluttershy tossed again, finally coming to a good position. Well, at least Sunset is not sleeping in a factory tonight... Fluttershy looked at the wall and sighed. Lucky we found her....if not, she would be spending the night in such a horrible place in her horrible illness! That was it. 'Horrible' Fluttershy nodded under the covers. Absolutely horrible! Then, Fluttershy, too, closed her eyes and tried to sleep.


Applejack
Applejack placed her hat on the floor as she closed her eyes. Ah can't sleep.... Applejack sighed as she crossed her arms. Too many things just happened today. What I'm most worried about is Sunset. If ah haven't placed that tracker thingy on Sunset's phone, she would have been lost for good! Applejack looked over to Sunset. Poor girl, she is, thinkin that we ain't forgivin her and we thinkin she's a burden? She got one heck of creativity ah give her that.

Applejack remembered the look on Sunset's face when she was at the mall, after the Formal and when she was caught running away. I don't know why she just won't listen to us when we forgive her, or why she won't just forgive herself.... Applejack ran a hand through her hair, letting her mind wander away from Sunset and to something else that made her roll her eyes in amusement, Rarity.

I wonder is she is really serious about makin as all new clothes. Applejack smiled. I just hope she doesn't make me somthin fuzzy or lacy. Applejack thought as she remembered Rarity pulling a puffy dress down on her when they were getting ready for the dance during the Formal. I would never wear somethin like that! Applejack laughed to herself as she imagined throwing a glittery dress back at Rarity in utter disgust, shouting "No, I would not wear that hideous thing! You wear it!" Applejack placed her hat on top of her face as she laid back to sleep.


Pinkie Pie
Pinkie rolled around as she looked her friends. Awww...they all look like they are having such a hard time sleeping.....I wish I could throw a party until morning.. Pinkie thought. After all, it was a Sunday tomorrow. Just as Pinkie was about to get up, she remembered that Sunset was, too, in the room and she, being unwell, needed her rest. Bummer.... Pinkie was upset. But, at least we are sure Sunny is safe here with us. Oh did she look awful! Pinkie shuddered as she looked at Sunset. Yup! I remember feeling like that once. It was horrible! I couldn't eat cake, muffins, or anything sweet for that matter.

Pinkie looked over to her friends. Well, lucky we were there for Sunny. She could have died out there...all alone.... Pinkie winced at the thought of Sunset as she crawled out of the crater. She looked in such terrible pain.... Pinkie felt her heart ache as she thought of the moment. But... Pinkie thought, going back to the happy and bright side, She did enjoy my food for dinner that I made....that's a good sign..... Pinkie smiled to herself as she closed her eyes and instantly fell asleep.


Rarity
Rarity sighed as she turned and tossed, like the rest of the girls, she was unable to sleep. Well, I should view it as a good thing I guess...... Rarity thought as she began to plan what she could make for her friends and Sunset . I would just need some plans for their new outfits... Rarity let her mind run through all the clothing designs that she had thought of for her friends, resting at Sunset.

Hmmm...that girls' clothes are probably going to be one of the hardest to design....she likes leather and.... Rarity casted a glance at Sunset. Poor girl...She has been through so much... Rarity quitely got out of the bag, realising that she was the last to fall asleep as all her friends lay motionless on the floor, breathing steadily. Rarity dug through her purse and found her notebook. Since I can't fall asleep anyway, I'll just stay up abit to think of some awesome new clothes designs! Rarity tapped her pencil on her chin as she started to vigorously draw and sketch.

On the road to recovery - Chapter 8

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Sunset opened her eyes as she stared down the dark hallway. A hallway that any CHS student would recognize almost instantly. Sunset stood next to the rows of lockers, wondering why she was there. "Hello? Anyone there?" She called out, her voice just echoing around the empty walls around her. Just then, Sunset felt a jolt run down her spine as she began to twist in agony. She ran down to the main entrance of the school, looking for someone.

As she ran towards the canterlot statue, Sunset what was chasing her. A fiery red demon smiled back at her. "Sunset Shimmer, did you really think that you could just RUN AWAY? I'm a part of you, no, I AM you!"The demon laughed as she engulfed Sunset, turning Sunset back into her demon self. Sunset started to destroy the whole school against her will. "Stop! No! Your hurting them! Let me go!" Sunset screamed as she blasted the whole school to bits, killing all the students that was still inside. "NOOO!"


Sunset sat up on the couch, once again drenched in cold sweat as her friends looked at her with worried expressions. "Erm...are you okay?" Rainbow asked at Sunset rubbed her eyes. "You seem pretty tense...."

Sunset looked up as she sneezed. "Yeah....it's those dreams again..." She said, sniffing as she looked at her friends. "Do you wanna talk about it, dear? It always helps if you tell someone..." Rarity said as Sunset sneezed again. "Okay...." Sunset said, looking at the time. "But I do need to take my meds now, do I?" She rubbed her head.

As she tipped the pills down her dry throat, Sunset thought of what she could tell her friends. "Okay...so I was in the school hallway when I felt someone behind me, I didn't know where anyone was so I ran out of the building and looked in the statue and saw a demon chasing me but then it sorta ate me or something and then I started to totally destroy the whole school and town and then I woke up." Sunset took a huge breath. "Wow, when you say it all like that, it's a little....." Pinkie said as she stared at Sunset.

"Yeah, I know." Sunset smiled as she realised it was still quite early. "Oh, yeah! Sorry for sleeping in on you guys during the movie..." She looked up and grinned slightly. "Nah, it's cool, you needed the rest anyway." Rainbow said, yawning. "Let's just go on back to sleep and we'll party or something tomorrow..." The girls nodded.

"Ah...choo! Ah...Ah...Choo! AH...CHOO! As much as Sunset tried, she could not hold back her sneezes. As she sat up from the couch, bundled in the warm blankets, shivering, Sunset squinted her eyes as the lights flickered on. "Are you okay?" Fluttershy asked as Sunset rubbed her nose.

"I think so...." Sunset said before sneezing a few more times. "Sorry...again..." She said. "It's okay." Applejack said as she handed Sunset a tissue. "You just took the meds. By morning, you should feel much better." Sunset smiled as she looked up at her friends.

"Yeah! The doctor I brought you to, mended by broken wrist within three days! And it got hurt while I fell down and someone stepped on it. I even heard the bones breaking. If he could mend that, you should get better in a jiffy!" Sunset nodded. "Yup, I feel much stronger and.....I'm hungry now, really hungry...." She blushed as she rubbed her stomach. "I think the medicine has at least cured the vomiting....."

Pinkie instantly jumped up and ran into the kitchen, pulling out a flask. "Here, I saved you some food! I knew that you would get our appetite back!" She smiled as she handed Sunset the food. Sunset stared down at the bowl as tears came to her eyes. Wow....they are so nice.....so thoughtful...

"Thanks Pinkie....." Sunset said as she began eating the meal. "You are a really great cook....." Pinkie looked at at Sunset with a look of gratitude in her eyes, as if to convey :Thanks Sunny! As Sunset sat down to eat, she watched as her friends drifted back off to sleep.


I never realized what I was missing in my life.... Sunset thought as she looked at her friends, who appeared to be sleeping soundly. Well, I was too silly not to make friends in Equestria. And to think I chose my studies over those who invited to me to parties.... Sunset stared at a wall as she remembered how she used to turn down any good opportunity to make friends or go to parties.

The only person I ever shared my feeling with was Celestia......and I betrayed her......for power.... Sunset whipped a tear off her cheek as she placed to bowl on the table and going back to sleep herself. Sunset laid back as one last thought ran through her head before she fell asleep. I should apologise to the girls proper tomorrow....yeah....

The next day came faster than Sunset had expected. Next thing she knew, she was rubbing her eyes as she walked into the toilet to get ready. Wow, Rainbow was right. I DO feel so much better..... Sunset turned the knob of the shower as warm water flowed down on her. Well, I can't remember the last time I had bathed in warm water.... Sunset sighed as a picture of the factory flew to thought. Yeah...I can't

"Hey Sunset, feel any better?" rainbow said with a smirk. Sunset rolled her eyes. "Yes" She answered simply as she took the medicine again. "Hey, can I stop eating this?" Sunset said as she waved the bottle of liquid. "I ate the food yesterday and I didn't even gag."

"Yeah." Rainbow said. "Why do you think he gave you such a small bottle? It's a come and go thing." Sunset sighed as she placed the bottle on the table. "Erm....where do you guys wanna go? It's Sunday!" Rainbow asked. "And since Sunny here is feeling a lot better, we can do some more fun stuff....."

"What do you have in mind this time?" Applejack said, thinking about all the crazy stuff that Rainbow had done before, including showing off to bullies that had landed her in the hospital. "Ah hope it ain't anythin crazy." Applejack added as she crossed her arms.

"Why not? I like crazy." Sunset said as she stood up and dusted herself. "So.....what shall we do Rainbow?" Sunset asked as she shot the rainbow haired girl a sly grin. "Let me hear it!"

Rarity, sensing a bad decision would be made, instantly stood up. "The movies! We can go to the movies!" She held up her hand, "before you start arguing," she said, mainly to Rainbow,"I think we should start off with something mild, calm like..." She looked at Sunset. "What do you think Sunset?"

Sunset looked at Rainbow's expectant face. After taking a while to think of an answer, she looked Rarity in the eye. "Sure!" She said, with a hint of mischief in her eyes. "Buuuuut, Rainbow gets to choose the movie." She looked at Rainbow and Rarity, both staring at her with shocked expressions, each for different reasons.

"I think we would be getting along real well...." Rainbow said after recovering from the shock. She wrapped her arm around Sunset's neck as she smiled. "Yeah...." Rarity said as she glared at Sunset, making Sunset just glare back. "Really well." Everyone shared a laugh before they left the house, heading to the movies.


When they reached the theaters, Rainbow immediately ran up to the counter to choose the movie, knowing that half her friends dreaded horror movies, Rainbow decided that she would book six tickets for the scariest show the cinema has to offer.

"Okay, I got the tickets. We still have got a little time before the movie starts. I say we go have some lunch." Rainbow said as she ran up to her girls. "Rainbow...what tickets did you get?" Pinkie asked as she went up to Rainbow, snatching the tickets and reading the title to herself. "Ooh! Watch out Flutters. It's a scary one!" Fluttershy shrank down her her clothes as she imagined all the horrible things that awaited her.

"Hey, it's okay...." Rainbow said as she patted Fluttershy. "Be brave." She held Fluttershy's hand as Applejack led them down to a restaurant."


"Ah.....choo! Ah...choo!" Sunset wrapped her hands around her as she walked into the restaurant. "Sure is cold here...." She said as they made their way to an empty table. Sunset wiped her nose as she picked up the menu, scanning the items that was on the 'vegetable' section.

"Okay, so what shall we eat?" Sunset asked. 'This looks promising enough." As she looked around, she felt a few pairs of eyes look down at her as she selected what to eat. Sunset also heard a few people sneering behind her, as well as the word 'demon' being used Who are they and why are they looking at me like this? Sunset thought as she placed her order with Fluttershy.

Sunset turned around to get a better view of the people behind. Realising that many of the people in the restaurant were students from school, Sunset allowed herself to slide down in her seat, trying to look away. "Hey, you okay?" Rainbow asked, noticing her friend's discomfort. Rainbow looked at Sunset, who ignored her, following her line of sight, her eyes landing on a group of CHS students looking at Sunset with disapproving glares.

"Oh...." Rainbow looked down at Sunset, who had her face buried within her hands. "Darling, everything okay?" Rarity asked as she looked towards the direction Rainbow was looking. Soon, the whole group were looking towards the students. After turning back, the girls shared a look as Sunset held the menu in front of her face. "Sunset, don't bother about them." Applejack said. "They ain't worth your time...." Sunset looked up from the menu, tears in her eyes.

"is it not?" Sunset began. "It is all my fault, do you even know what I did to them?" Sunset looked down again. Although Sunset had bullied many, she remembered everything she had done and said, and the 'little incident' in the crater that night of the Formal did not help the situation at all. "I shamed them in front of the whole school, not that you would remember..." Sunset added.

"Hey, it's okay. Who cares what they think?" Rainbow said as she lifted Sunset head. "We know you have changed, and that's more important than what others think of you. Okay?" Sunset nodded as she whipped away a tear. Yeah, I know...but what would happen when school starts? You guys won't be there......

After eating, the group made their way up to the cinema. "Really, when can i pay you guys back?" Sunset waved her hands in the air as they walked up to the escalator. The girls, again, had helped Sunset to pay for yet another thing that Sunset could have paid for. "You guys have given me way way too much. I can't accept it!" Sunset crossed her arms.

"Yes, you can, and you already have." Rarity said as she rolled her eyes. "And, also, you must accept, my orders. Besides, you don't even have a job like most of us do, you don't even earn any money." Rarity placed her arm around Sunset. "Really, I won't take a no." Sunset looked at her friends. "Thanks..." She muttered as they made their way to the popcorn counter.

"So.....Sunny, what do you want?" Pinkie ran up to the counter and started to stare at the popcorn, her mouth dripping with saliva. "Ooh, they have plain, salty, sweet, caramel...." Pinkie listed all the flavors, making Sunset wonder how they even came up or made space for so many. "I don't know....." Sunset looked up and down. "I've never tried popcorn...that's what is is called right? Yeah, never."

Pinkie gasped so loud, people across the globe were covering their ears. "What!?! NEVER? Really?!?!" Pinkie waved her hand around frantically.

"Yeah...never. I really didn't see the need to?" Sunset shrugged as she looked at the flavors. "You know what, since you like popcorn so much, I'll give you the honors of picking for me." Sunset waved her hand at Pinkie's face, trying to get her to snap out of her shock. "Pinkie? Hellloooo!" Sunset waved her hand as she pushed Pinkie towards the counter, looking towards her friends for help.

"Eh heh heh..." Applejack laughed as she pulled Sunset back. "Give her time, she'll snap out of it." She elbowed Sunset and smiled. Meanwhile, the other girls started to pick out the flavors and the drinks. "So, you really never went on a trip to the movies before huh?" Applejack asked as she handed Sunset some popcorn. "Here, try some."

"Yeah, never." Sunset answered, eating the popcorn. "Wow, this is gooood..." She extended her hand towards the bag for more. "Told you, it's good stuff." Pinkie said as Sunset reached for another. Sunset nodded. "Yeah, when it come to food Pinkie, I'll never doubt you again." The group laughed as they made their way to the cinema room.


"Wow, that was so cool! So unexpected! So..." Rainbow said just as Fluttershy interrupted her. "Scary!" Fluttershy hugged herself as she walked out to the car park, her eyes still wide open. "I'm never doing that again..." Rainbow looked at her friend. "Look, Flutters, you need to you know, learn to be brave. It's all in the mind, you'll get over it." She nudged Fluttershy, who's face was still frozen with fear. "Anyway, how was the movie Sunset?" Rainbow asked, changing the subject.

"It was awesome!" Sunset shouted. "I mean, it was nice....I never knew that movies were so much fun!" Sunset looked at her friends, "and I did not know that hanging out your friends is so nice, all I've ever cared about before was myself and myself only. Thank you all for opening this door for me." Sunset walked up to Rainbow's car. "Hey, it's only 1 in the afternoon, you guys have any ideas?"

There was a moment of silence before Rainbow raised her hand. "No, no no." Rarity immediately rushed up. "No more of your crazy ideas. You have already scared Fluttershy half to death, whatever you want to do now can't possibly be any better." Rainbow pulled Rarity's hand away. "Chillax, like I was going to say before you suggested to go to the movies in my house, I was going to suggest that we go to the newly opened carnival near my place! I saw posters of it like everywhere!"

"Well, a carnival does sound nice, ya think so?" Applejack said. "It's safe, not too scary and fun all at the same time!" Pinkie nodded. "Yeah! It's so cool! and we have never been to one like in ages! This would be totally fun!" Pinkie gasped, pulling Sunset in. "And there is so much food there Sunny! And since you have never tried popcorn, I doubt you have tried carnival food like cotton candy!" Sunset shook her head and shrugged.

"Yeah, I only heard of it, shall we go?" Sunset said as she pointed towards the car. "Yeah!" Rainbow stepped inside and turned the keys as the rest squeezed in. "You ready for another round of fun?" Rainbow asked as she pressed the accelerator down. "Yup, I would kill to hang out with you girls again!" Sunset said as she leaned back and sighed.

A few minutes later, a blue car, with five enthusiastic and one scared girl inside reversed into a parking lot not far away from a newly opened carnival.

A day at the theme park (Rainbow) - Chapter 9

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"Hurry up you guys!!!!" Pinkie and Rainbow shouted. "We are going to be late!!" Rarity stepped out of the car, "late for what? May I ask?" She reached down and helped Fluttershy to her feet. "Really, you girls, no patience at all!" Rarity added as she pulled Sunset out.

"I have no patience? You were the one who went all crazy over the school because the mall was having a 10% discount off fibric that you didn't even want or, may I add, like!?" Rainbow said, "and I am late for something! The roller coasters! I have been waiting for ages!"

Sunset stepped out of the car. "Yeah, I am too! But we should wait for the rest to get ready so we know when to meet back here." She walked up to Rainbow. "Hey, between you and me, I would also love to run off right about now, but I think we should wait for the rest, or Rarity would go nuts!" Rainbow instantly burst out laughing. "Good one!"

"Okay, now that we are all settled, we would all go in groups of threes and meet back here at 4, ya'll okay with that?" Applejack asked as she took Fluttershy and Rarity's hands. "The three of us would go one some calm and slow rides" She said, looking at Fluttershy, who sighed in relief. "You girls," She added, looking at Rainbow's excited face, "would be trying all the daredevil rides around the park right?"

"Yeah you bet! Then, Pinkie would show as around and bring as to all the cotton candy stalls around the carnival to try out some food!" Sunset said as Rainbow grabbed her hand and Pinkie's, pulling them towards the crowd. "Yeah, yeah, meet back at 4 for some crazy shopping with Rarity, got it!" Rainbow shouted back as Sunset sniggered.


As they neared the coaster, the wild screamings of children grew louder and louder. "Hey Sunny, erm, tell Dash that I would wait for you guys down here at this cotton candy stand okay? See you guys after the ride!" Sunset nodded as she tapped Rainbow, who was looking at the roller coaster. "Erm...Rainbow?"

Rainbow turned around and looked at Sunset. "What huh!? I wasn't shaking! I'm not scared!" Sunset raised her eyebrow as she looked at Rainbow's horrified expression. "Uh huh? Never mind, Pinkie said that she would wait for us at the cotton candy stall, are you ready go on the ride?" Sunset pulled Rainbow, who unwillingly followed her to the start of the queue.

"Isn't this exciting? I've never been on one of them before!" Sunset looked up as the ride zoomed past her head, making her hair go wild. As Sunset struggled to pat her hair back in place, Rainbow hugged herself tightly, panting. Come on Dash! Why are you scared of a little ride? It's just a machine that would sent you flying through the air, dangling.... Rainbow Dash flinched as another round of screaming flooded her ears. Uhh...it is even safe? What if the ride stops halfway at the loop, what if I fly out!? Rainbow's heart sped up as she panted heavily.

"Erm, you okay?" Sunset looked down as her friend, who was currently clinging on the railings like no tomorrow. "You seem..." Sunset bagan, only to be cut off by Rainbow. "Scared?? I'm not scared!?" She panted as she looked up at the ride that zoomed past her and winced, beads of sweat dripped off her cheeks.

"I never said you were...." Sunset said as she held Rainbow's hand. She looked into Rainbow's eyes, Sunset saw the fear in Rainbow's eyes that had appeared on her own when the rainbow beam shot down on her, back on Friday. Oh....she's scared...I have to do something....but what? Sunset kneeled down and looked into the girl's eyes, pulling her up.

"Hey, dash, it's okay to be scared..." Sunset looked at Rainbow, who crossed her arms. "I'm not...." She said. Sunset sighed and smiled. "I can tell you are, look, it's okay..." Sunset took a deep breath. "Rainbow, back when I was still a bully, you always stood up to me right?"

Rainbow nodded. "Yeah, and it takes a brave person to stand up to a....bully" Sunset sighed. "Yeah, but I was just doing the right thing!" Rainbow said, her vision blurring with hot tears.

"Yes, it takes a whole lot of courage for one person to do that. You were afraid that you would get hurt, but yet you did it for Fluttershy because you knew it was right and because you were her friend and you knew that she didn't stand a chance against me." Sunset reached out to Rainbow and held her hand. "It takes a brave person to do that, if you could stand up to me, this ride should be easy. Like you said to Fluttershy, be brave."

Rainbow sniffed as she wiped away a tear. "Okay...." She leaned forward and gave Sunset a hug. Sunset smiled. "Don't sweat it, that's what friends are for right?" She winked at Rainbow.

"Yeah....what friends are for..." Rainbow said. Rainbow looked away for a moment. Great, you just broke down in front of Sunset! Rainbow looked at Sunset. "Erm, hey Sunset...could you keep this whole thing a secret? Please? I'll die if the girls find out..."

Sunset smiled. "Yeah, sure" She looked at Rainbow. "Another thing, I own you an apology, sorry for messing up your plans with AJ for when the netball team, or something....was supposed to meet..." Sunset looked down as she recalled that day that she sent the message to cut their line of friendship. "Hey, I'm cool, it's fine." Rainbow replied with a shrug. "I just got embarrassed in front of everyone for a day, it was not too bad."

Rainbow caught Sunset's expression. "Woah, you really are dead serious about this huh." Rainbow looked at Sunset. "Hey, I forgive you, I have done worse...I mean. i didn't try to kill people but.....erm....you get the idea...but I forgive you,"

Sunset looked away. "Oops, sorry, I shouldn't have said that, but I did, once, pranked someone so bad that they had to go to the hospital for nose surgery." Sunset looked up and smiled. "What?" She asked looking at the girl with with a different angle, she never knew Rainbow would harm anyone that badly.

"Yeah...you wanna hear more?" Rainbow started to tell Sunset all the bad things that she had done and the two girls talked and laughed all the way to the end of the queue.

"Next!" The person in charge of the coaster shouted. "It's own turn! Get on!" Sunset pushed Rainbow onto the ride. "Come on, hey, remember what I said about being brave, Rainbow." Sunset pulled the handle back and looked at the girl who was clinging on to the safety bar tightly.

"Dash, it's gonna be okay." Sunset said as she rested her palm on Rainbow's hand. "We'll do this together." Rainbow nodded slightly as the machine bellow her started to move......


"That was AWESOME!!" Rainbow said as she got out of the ride. "Can we go again?" Rainbow asked as Sunset pulled herself out laughing. "See, told you! I really want to go again, but the queue is too long and I'll hate to keep Pinkie waiting." Sunset looked around and spotted a pink figure making its way towards them. "Look, she is here already."

"Hey guys, how was it?" pinkie asked as took Sunset's. "I saw sooo much food back there! You have got to try some!" Sunset looked at Rainbow, who shrugged. "Erm, it was fun....but, Rainbow was...." Sunset felt her mouth getting covered by Rainbow's hand. Sunset pulled her hand away, "as I was saying, Rainbow was really excited and she wanted to go again." She looked at rainbow, who heaved a sigh of relief.

"Meh." Pinkie said. "Come on now! We have got to try all the food before timed up! We only have an hour!" Sunset closed her eyes as she got dragged around by Pinkie, Rainbow running beside her. After regaining her balance, Sunset looked at where she had ended up, the sweet smell of candy and chocolate surrounding her.

"Here!" Pinkie said as she handed Sunset a stick with what seems like pink clouds stuck on it. "What is this?" Sunset said as she cautiously licked it, the cloud instantly melting in her mouth. "Wow, I don't even care what this is, it is delicious!" Sunset reached out for another bite, Pinkie handing Rainbow a stick as well.

"It's cotton candy! The best kind....." Pinkie licked her lips, "yup, the best....." Sunset threw her stick away, as she walked back, Sunset wondered how she would apologise to Pinkie and an idea crossed her mind.

A taste of new food (Pinkie) - Chapter 10

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"Hey, uh...Pinkie?" Sunset said as she approached the girl. "I have something to...." Sunset started, only to be once again cut off as Pinkie handed her an apple on a stick. "Talk later! Eat now!" Pinkie shouted as she pointed to the apple. "That's a caramel apple! Try it!"

As much as Sunset wanted to make the apology formal and proper, she could not resist trying one more of Pinkie's 'recommendations' and Rainbow appeared to be already down to only half the apple left. "Alright fine...." She said as she tried a bite out of the apple. "Yum! You are right Pinkie, the carnival is full of amazing things!" Pinkie crossed her hands and nodded, as is saying : Told you!

Sunset took the apple out of her mouth and looked at Pinkie seriously. "Okay....as I was saying just now," Sunset began, leading the girls to a much quieter part of the carnival, "I'm sorry Pinkie..." She looked the pink girl in the eyes to tell her that this was not to be taken as a joke.

Getting the message, Pinkie sat down. "What Sunny? Why are you sorry?" Sunset thought for a moment before speaking. "Well, you see, even though you girls already forgave me, I just feel that I need to apologise properly, you know? So just roll with it, okay?" She sat down on the ledge next to Pinkie as Rainbow, too a seat next to Sunset.

"Okay, I get it, no interrupting or joking around for about five minutes, I can handle that." Pinkie answered. "Thanks," Sunset said. "Okay, you know how I would always call your parties lame and childish?" Pinkie nodded a look of hurt flashed across her face. "It's not true Pinkie, I liked the layout and everything, but......" Sunset felt her eyes watering. "What I mean is, your planning is just amazing and I was too embarrassed to admit that it was actually pretty cool, so instead, I....I...." Sunset wrapped her hands around her legs, warm streaks of tears rolling down her face. She turned and faced Pinkie, not knowing how to continue.

Pinkie looked at her crying friend warmly. "Sunny, you really think my parties are cool? Great! than you would love the one I am planning for you right now!" Pinkie smiled brightly, handing Sunset a cupcake. "Here, try this, it would help...and, I forgive you Sunset." Sunset wiped her face as she tried the item that Pinkie hand just given her. Taking a bite out of it, the sweetness of the cupcake reminded Sunset just how wonderful it felt to have friends.

After finishing her cupcake, the three girls continued to walk the streets, trying everything that they could get their hands on anything that looked edible. "Woah, this is soo good!" Rainbow said ass she stuffed more food down her throat. "I don't even know when is the last time I ate like this....." She looked at Sunset, who also appeared to be chewing on something that she enjoyed. "So, Shimmer, when are you apologising to the rest?"

Sunset looked up, "Oh I don't know....I have done so many awful things that....I just don't know......." She looked at the ground. Yeah, when...how would I ever apologise to them? Sunset was deep in thought when a voice shook her out of her daydreams.

"Sunset darling!" Sunset looked up to see Rarity, Fluttershy and Applejack staring at her. "About time huh, you were a bit late." Rarity noticed as she pointed to her watch, it read 4.01pm. Sunset sighed. "Sorry, but Pinkie was dragging us all over the carnival, looking for stuff to eat." Rarity looked at Pinkie, then waved her hand dismissively, "Never mind that, time to go SHOPPING!"

Everyone covered their ears. "Ouch, Rarity!" Applejack said. "Ya don't needa shout." Rarity instantly smiled sheepishly as she waved her hands around. "Oops, sorry girls, I just get a little too excited I guess...." Everyone shared a laugh before stepping into Rainbow's car.

"So, how was your ride, Rainbow?" Applejack asked with a tinge of I knew you were terrified look in her eyes. "Was it....scary?" Rainbow immediately turned red, looking at Sunset, who was in the passenger seat, for help. "Er, well....." Rainbow stuttered.

"She was really brave, and we rode it twice, in fact!" Sunset cut in. "Yeah, she even had to calm some other crying girl down." She added quickly. Rainbow, hearing that, took a quick sigh of relief, a quick one. "Really?" Applejack said, unconvinced. Sunset turned back and glared at Applejack, making sure that Rainbow was not looking, she whispered, "No, Dash was very scared, but can we lay off this for now? Please?"

Applejack nodded slightly, crossing her arms and leaning back with a smug look on her face.

"TURN HERE!" Rarity shouted, causing the car to jerk suddenly as Rainbow jumped up in shock. "AHhhh! Rarity!" Everyone shouted as all eyes were turned on the girl. "Oops, sorry again....I was just telling Rainbow that the mall is right here." Rarity explained. "Gah, next time, just tell me gently!" Rainbow said, as she turned into the dimly lit car park.


As the girls got out of the car, it was Rarity's turn to whine. "Hurry! The good shops are all inside! At this rate, we will never get there in time!"

Rainbow rolled her eyes. "Look who's talking now!" She said as she slowly got out, slowly dragging her body behind her. "Yeah, we'll neeeeeverr get there in timmmmme." She walked towards Rarity slowly, ginning smugly as she girl stared at her in frustration.

"Rainbow!" Applejack said. "Really, are ya'll ever gonna get along huh?" She pushed Rainbow forward, making her way to the front doors. "Come on."

Sunset joined Rarity. "So....why ya so excited to come here? It's just a mall after all." Rarity looked at Sunset with a face that said:JUST a mall?! She held Sunset by the shoulders, shaking the girl furiously.

"How can you say that Sunset?!" She exclaimed as she let go of her. "Sorry..." Rarity smiled as she led Sunset into the mall. "It's just, I need to do more fabric shopping, to make clothes for you and the girls, that's all." Rarity took Sunset's hand and led her inside.

Hmm, done with Pinkie and Dash. Now I'll apologise to Rarity. But how?