> A New Beginning Sunsets Second Chance > by Drekoswordhunter > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1 Fall Formal Aftermath > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "At last, more power than I could ever imagin." Sunset Shimmer said, placing Twilight's crown on her head. Suddenly Sunset felt the magic within the crown flow though her as she's enveloped in a pillar of dark light. she feels her skin was burn as it turns red. Then she feel pain coming from her back as a pair of bat wings forcefully sprouted. Her body changed into a form resembling a demon. Her mind then split in two as all her hate, anger, and rage takes on a personality of its on and abandons what was left to the deepest part of her mind. "HAHAHAHA," Demon Sunset cackled. The abandoned part of Sunset awakens to find herself in a dark void deep in her mind. She can still feel and see what was happen outside her mind as if she was looking out a window. She watched as her demon self transformed Snips and Snails into her demon minions. The demon use her magic to rip a hole in the front of the the school. She then casts a brainwashing spell on the entire student body, turning them into her obedient slaves. Sunset could not believe what she was seeing. "Spoiler Alert,"the Demon said hovering over the student body. "I was bluffing when i said I was going to destroy the portal. I don't want to rule this pathetic little high school. I want Equastria." "What?" said Sunset within her own mind. "And with my own little teenage army behind me, I'm going to get it" No thats not what i wanted. I just wanted to show her i could be her equal. i wanted to prove she was wrong about me. I just wanted her love and respect. "No your not!" Twilight said defiantly. "Oh please," the Demon said flying over closer to Twilight, "What exactly do you think your going to do to stop me. I have magic and YOU DONT! " She has us!" Rainbow Dash said as her and her friends run up to stand by Twilight. "HAHAHAHAHA, gee the gang really is all back together again." the Dmon said as her hands began to glow with magic. "Now step aside, Twilight has tried to interfere with my plans one to many time," the demons creates a fireball in the palm of her hands that grows bigger as she raises her hands above her head."She needs to be dealt with!" NOOO! Sunset screamed from within the dark void of her mind, as the fireball is thrown at Twilight. I dont want this, I dont what to be a murderer. Twilight's friends try to shield her as the fireball hits them. The demon laughs believing she won , but her laughter soon ends when the dust clears. Twilight and her friends are surrounded by a protective purple glow. They look to each other surprised by the purple glow, but happy they survived the attack. Twilight came to a sudden realization about the magic within her crown as a beam of light from the crown connects to Twilight and her friends. "The magic contained in my element was able to unite with those who created it." declared Twilight The beam of light then caused them to transform too. But instead of being to turned into a demon like Sunset, they all got pony ears and tails. Twilght, Rainbow and Fluttershy also got wings. What is this the power? said Sunset "Together with the crown they create a power beyond anything you can imagin," Twilight said as the beam of light ended leaving the demon much weaker than before. "but its is a power you dont have the ability to control." " The crown my be upon you head Sunset Shimmer, But you can not wield it because you do not posses the most powerful magic of all. THE MAGIC OF FRIENDSHIP! Friendship? Twilight and her friends joined hands as they floated up into the sky. Together there magic summons a rainbow beam of light that surrounds the demon in a rainbow vortex. "Here and in Equastria it is the only magic that can truly unite us all." Twilight said as a two more rainbow beams where fired. One hit the brainwashed students undoing the spell. The second turned Snips and Snails back to normal. I didn't think friendship could be this strong. I guess Celestia was right after all, but its probably to late for me to make friends. Sunset thought as the dark void was enveloped in light. A few seconds later, she awakens in a crater in front of the school. She is relive to have control of her body again. She feels pain coming from her back and head as she tries to move. She the feels the blood on her back making her shirt stick to her. She also feels dizzy and sore like she hit her head. She looks up and sees Twilight and the entire student body looking down at her from the top of the crater. "You will never rule in Equateria! any power may have had in this world is gone. Tonight you've shown them whats in your heart." "I'm sorry!" Sunset cried with tear in hear eyes, "I'm so sorry! I didn't know there was another way." I didn't think i need friendship to be strong. thought Sunset. "The magic of friendship doesn't just exist in Equastria." said Twilight "Its everwhere." Sunset tries to crawl her way out of the crater, fighting thought the pain in the process. She feels is The pain her punishment for all the things she did in the past and for the abuse of magic in Twilight's crown. As she got to the edge of the crater Twilight said. "You can seek it out or you can be forever alone . the choice is yours." "But all I've ever done since coming here is drive everyone apart." Sunset said crying, "I don't know the first thing about friendship." Twilight grabbed her hand and helped her get out of the crater. Sunset tried her best not let them see the pain shes in. "I bet they can teach you," Twilight said turning to her friends. ************************** After Twilight got her crown back, the students returned to the dance. While principal Celestia and Twilight returned to her office to talk. Vice principal Luna walks up to Sunset, Snips, and Snails. "I want you three to move some of this debris out of the way, so no one gets hurt walking in and out of the school till we can't get someone to fix it," ordered Luna. " Vice principal Luna can you please let them off the hook? " pleaded Sunset "This is all my fault and anything they did was my fault too, because I forced them to. " Luna saw the look of guilt in her eyes and said "Fine, but all three of you still have to report to the principals office on Monday to receive your punishments." "B-but-" " I understand that you want to take all the blame for what happened, but regardless of whether you forced them to or not, they still choose to do it. And they must face the consequence of that choice. " explained Luna. "O-ok," replied Sunset in defeat. Luna dismisses Snips and Snails, and leaves Sunset to clean up. As she makes her way to Celestias office she thinks to herself. I can't believe Sunset wanted to take on the all blame herself. What did the magic do to her to make her change so much so quickly? Well if she really is trying to change, I'm going to help her any way I can! After Luna left, Snips and Snails walked up to Sunset as she is cleaning up. "Hey Sunset," called Snips. Sunset turns to talk to them and says. "Ya?" "Are you sure you don't what is to help you or do it for you? asked Snips . " Yes, I ment what I said. You don't need to pay the price for my mistakes, " answered Sunset. "Well thanks for standing up to us." said Snips " Ya! Thanks, " said Snails. " No problem," said Sunset. After all it is my fault, and its my price to pay, Sunset thought as she continues to work, fighting through the pain. ****************************** Twilight and principal Celestia are talking while Celestia is making tea. Luna arrives as she finishes making tea. While they are drinking tea, Twilight begins to explain everything she knows about Sunset. "So if Sunset is also from your world, how has she been getting by all this time?" asked Celestia. " I don't know. You'll have to ask her that, but it couldn't have been easy for her," answered Twilight. "Then I - I mean we should do what we can to help her," said Luna worryingly. "I wish I could help more but,"Looking at the clock at the clock, Twilight said " I better go and say my goodbyes, but please look after Sunset for me . " "We promise." They both said. After Twilight leaves, Luna tells Celestia about Sunset trying to take all the blame for happened. " The look in her eyes and how she pleaded with me, makes me believe she really wants to change," said Luna, "I really want to do everything I can to help her." " And we willl. " said Celestia notice how much she wants to help Sunset , " I'll start by checking Sunsets student records. Since she's from another world her records where probably forged." " Ok, then I'll go check on Sunset. " said Luna as they both finishes there cups of tea. They both leave and the room, both worried about Sunsets safety and her well being. ************************ Sunset continued cleaning the debris, while still in pain from her transformation. She felt dizzy and almost tripped over debris multiple times. Her shirt sticking to her back, from all the blood from her back wounds. She was half way done when she spotted Twilight and her friends by the portal saying there goodbyes. " Sunset," a voice called that startled her causing her to trip over a piece of debris and fall down. " AAAhhhhh" Sunset cry out as she landed on her back. " I'm so sorry Sunset. " Luna said, as she runs over to Sunset. " I didn't mean to startle you. " Luna tries to help her up and notice how she whines in pain at her touch. Luna looks down to where she landed and sees blood. " Sunset are you hurt? " asked Luna. Sunset says nothing. " Sunset please, I'm worried about you and I want to help you. " pleaded Luna.. Still silence. " Sunset please answer me. " Luna said raising her voice. Sunset says in a low voice " Why? " "What?" Asked Luna. " Why do you care, after everything I've done?" as Sunset began to cry. " I've cause you nothing but trouble since I got here. " Luna keeled down in front of her and said "No matter what you did in the past, do in the present, or will do in the future; my sister and I care about all of the students and that includes you. No matter how much you think you don't deserve it, we're here for you. " Luna than wraps her in a hug being careful not to hurt her more. " Please let me help you" Douse she really care or is she pitying me? Sunset thought I guess for now it doesn't matter. " Ok " Sunset said pulling way from Luna to take her jacket off. After Twilight left the girls made there way back to the school, when they heard the commotion going on between Luna and Sunset. They arrive just in time to see Sunset taking off her jacket. They see her shirt stained in blood and rush over to see what happened. Luna slowly and carefully pulled up her shirt reveling two long gashes between her spine and shoulder blade, one on each side from where her wings where. They were all shocked at what they saw. Fluttershy began to cry, Pinkie Pies usual puffy hair when flat with her worried face, Rarity brought her hand to her mouth as tears began to form in her eyes, Applejack tilted her hat down, and Rainbow Dash hands turned in to fists as she tries not to cry. Luna turns to see the girls glad that they show up when they did. " How did this happened?" asked a crying Fluttershy. " I think it's from her transformation, Darling. " said worried Rarity. "Douse that mean we did this to her? " asked Applejack. "No, you had on way of knowing this would happen," Said Luna. Luna then turns back to Sunset and asks "Are you hurt anywhere else?" "My head hurts and I feel dizzy." Sunset replied. Luna proceeds to check her head and finds a small gash on he side of her head. "There's a small gash on your head on your head. The headache and dizziness means you might have a concession," Luna explained," I'm going to have to take you to the hospital to be sure. " " Please don't take me to a hospital! " cried out Sunset. " Why not? " said an angry Rainbow Dash "It's probably because she has no government papers since she's from another world. " said Luna glaring at Rainbow. Then turns to Sunset."I've got some friends that run a private clinic that will be able to help us and they will keep everything on the down low. " " Ok. " said Sunset. Luna turns to the other girls. " Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie: please go tell principal Celestia what happened, and tell her I'm taking her to the clinic. If she not in her office check the records room." As they quickly left Luna said " Applejack and Rainbow Dash carry her to my car, so she doesn't fall down again. " As they help her up Rarity made sure to grab Sunsets jacket. On the way to her car, Luna pulls out her phone and dials the number for the clinic. It rings for a few seconds before someone answer. " Hello, Crystal Nova Private Clinic, Nova speaking! " answered Nova. " Hello Nova, it's Luna. " "Oh hey Luna, how are you doing?" Asked Nova " Not good Nova, I have a student who's injured and I can't take her to the hospital because she's technically she an undocumented minor, so I'm bringing her to you. I'll explain everything when I get there," Luna quickly explained. "Ok, thanks for the heads up . See you soon." Said Nova ending the call Luna put her phone in her pocket as they arrived at her car in the faculty parking lot. She unlocked the doors and helped get Sunset in the back seat. As she was about to open the driver side door. "You girls should all go on home for the night. " "I want to go with you!" said a determined Rarity "That way I can let everyone know she's ok. I don't think I can wait till Monday to found if she ok or not." Luna wanted to say no, but she could see the determination in her eyes " Ok , get in the back with Sunset and try to keep her awake till we get there. " Rarity place Sunsets jacket in the front seat before she got in and they quickly left the parking lot, hoping everything will be all alright. > Chapter 2 The Clinic > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Celestia was on her way back to her office with Sunsets file, when she sees Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie running up to her.They looked like they had been crying. "Girls, what's wrong? " asked a worried Celestia. "It's Sunset," said a crying Fluttershy, " She's hurt. " " What happened? " "She was hiding injuries caused by her transformation into that demon," Said a very sad Pinkie Pie, " Vice principal Luna said shes going to take her to a private clinic. " "Of course," said Celestia proud of her sisters quick thinking. "Thank you for let me know. You should meet up with the girls and head home for the night." After the girls left she went to her and Luna offices to gather there things, then went to her car. When she got in her car, she pull out Sunset file and punched in the address listed into her gps. She then sends Luna a text letting her know what she's doing and she be the clinic as soon as she can. Then pulls out of the faulty parking lot. ********************** The girls all meet back at the front of the school. Noticing one of them was missing Pinkie Pie asks, " Where's Rarity? " " For some reason she decided to go with Luna to the clinic, " answered an angry Rainbow Dash. "Sugercube, obviously she's worry about her just like the rest of us." answered Applejack " Well I'm not! " said Rainbow Dash. "How can you say that!" cried out Fluttershy. " After everything she done, you can't honestly tell me you really think she going to change," argued Rainbow Dash. "That doesn't matter right now and even if she doesn't change, she still doesn't deserve what happened to her," Said a sad Pinkie Pie. "Whatever." replied Rainbow Dash Applejack trying to being the voice of reason said, " Look we've been though a lot to night. Why don't we go home for the night and meet up tomorrow to get an update from Rarity. " They all went home, while still worrying about Sunset. ******************* On the way to the clinic, Rarity and Luna tried there best to keep Sunset awake just in case she had a concussion. Sunset felt more weak and tired now that she wasn't trying to hide it anymore. The wounds on her back continued to hurt. I guess that's karma for all thing i did in the past. Sunset thought I deserve this pain after all things I've done. "Sunset why did you try to hide this from us?" Asked Rarity worried about broaching the subject, but needed something keep Sunset talking till they got to the clinic. "This is what ... I get for ... being a terrible ... person." said a weak Sunset " Please don't talk like that, darling, " said a worried Rarity. "It's the truth. ... I deserve this. " Rarity pulls Sunset in for a hug being careful of her back. "No matter who you were in the past, no one deserves to go through pain like this. " "And were going to help get though this, weather you want us to or not." added Luna from the driver seat. " Why? " asked Sunset. There probably only doing this because princess Twilight asked them to. " Because darling, that's what friends are for, " answered Rarity. " Only because ... the princess ... asked you to. " "That doesn't matter right now and your past isn't important right now ether," Said Luna. "She's right! We're not helping you because someone asked to. We're help because we see someone we know and care about in pain and we would hate ourselves if sat by in did nothin," said Rarity. Sunset began to cry again. She was sure if it was because of the pain or the caring people that what to help her. "..Thanks .. " she sobbed. "Were almost there," said Luna. A few minutes later they arrived at the clinic. It was a small two story brick building with a sign reading Crystal Nova Private Clinic. Luna pulled in to the small parking lot behind the building. They got Sunset out of the car and helped her into the building. At the entrance was a woman with white skin; her hair was medium length with strains of pink, purple, and light blue curled on each side was waiting for them. "She looks terrible, what happened? " the woman asked as she held the door open for them. They helped Sunset in the front office of the building. There was another woman the office doing paper work at her desk. She has dark skin, long blueish green hair in a ponytail, and yellow eyes with a pair of black glass. She also had three piercings in each ear. Once inside Luna answered her, " It's kind of a long and hard to believe story, Nova. " " I find that hard to believe, " said the dark skinned woman looking up from her desk. " I would agree with you on that if I wasn't there to see in my self, Chrysalis, " answered Luna. Chrysalis got up walk over to them, " So what kind of trouble have you brought us this time?. " "Chrissy this is not the time for that, " said Nova with a little anger in her tone. "I know. I just couldn't resist," said Chrysalis," But seriously how hurt is she? " "She has two long gashes on her back and a a small gash on the side of her head. She also said she felt weak and dizzy." answered Luna " Which could be cause from the blood loss, or she has a concussion, or both," said Chrysalis. " Ok then let's get her in to the operating room in the back and get her all fixed up," said Nova. "And then we're going to have to here this long story," said Chrysalis. The two doctors guide them to the back room were the operating table was. They remove Sunsets shirt and bra before getting her up on the operation table. The doctors then asked Luna and Rarity to wait in the front office while the operated. They walk back to the front room with sad and worried looks on there faces. They both take out there phones and see that they both have text messages. Luna's text is from Celestia letting her know that she checking out Sunsets address and that she'll be there soon. She answered her text then sent a text to her girlfriend about what happened and that she probably won't be home tonight. Rarity's text is from the girls asking about Sunset, but what worried her was Applejack's text about what happened after she left. She texted them that Sunsets being operated on now and that she'll meet them at Sugercube corner in the morning. It was quiet for a few minutes after that. "I was wondering how do you know these doctors?" asked Rarity trying to break the silence. " Chrysalis and Potion Nova are really good friends. Tia and I have known them for a long time. " answered Luna, "They were always with us thou all our hardships. " That's good. I'm glad she in good hands," said Rarity. ************* Celestia continues to look for address from Sunsets file. The GPS brought to the industrial district were a lot of old factory were. After a few minutes of following the gps directions, she realized it has her circling the area multiple time. She figured ether the address in the file was wrong or the address Sunset gave was fake. She turned around and then made her way to the clinic. ***************** After about hour of waiting the doctors returned with an update on Sunset condition. "Her condition is stable now," announced Nova. "We need to keep her here overnight for obsevation," Said Chrysalis. " Can we see her? "asked Rarity. " No, she unconscious right now from the drugs," answered Nova. "Thank you for all your help. I don't know how I'll ever repay you," Said Luna gratefully. " You can start by telling us what happened to her," said Chrysalis. "Well your probably going to find it hard to believe," said Luna. "Try us, we've heard a lot of crazy storys. I can't be that hard to believe," said Nova. "If you say so," said Luna. Luna began to tell them everything that happened with Rarity adding in a few details here and there that Luna didn't know. By the time they finished telling the story, Celestia had arrived verified what Luna told them. The doctors had a look of disbelief, but because they had known Luna and Celestia for so long they could tell they were not lying. "Wow you weren't kidding about it being hard to believe," Said Nova. "But considering the wounds on the poor girl, it makes it much since," said Chrysalis. " What worries me is want she said to us on the way here," said Rarity. "Yes, you might want to get her to see a therapist or a counselor," said Nova. "That I can take care of." said Celestia proudly, "I was a guidance counselor before I became the principal." "Really?" said Rarity surprised. Luna turns to Celestia and asked " what did you find out about Sunsets address? " "Nothing. Will just have to wait and ask her in the morning," answered Celestia. "Is there anything else me and the girls can do to help? " Rarity asked the principals. "All you and your friends can do is try to be her friends and help her get though the tuff times ahead," said Celestia, "Rarity why don't I take you home." Rarity looked at them worryingly. "Don't worry I'm going to stay here with her tonight," Luna said trying to reassure Rarity. " Ok." Rarity said as she pulled out pen and paper from her pocket " Please let me know if there's any change or if you need us, " she said handing Luna a piece of paper and both wrote down there numbers and exchanged them. *********** After Celestia and Rarity left, Luna continued to talk to the doctors for a little while. Then when Luna was ready to go to sleep, they set up a cot in Sunsets room so Luna could stay with her. She sent one last text to her girlfriend before trying to go to sleep. The doctors went up stairs to get some sleep too, since the clinic was also there home. Luna spend most the night trying to figure how she can help Sunset. > Chapter 3 The Next Day > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- On a warm Saturday morning, Luna awakens in a cot at her friends clinic. When she opens her eyes shes the sleeping figure of Sunset Shimmer in the clinics patients bed. She gets up and smiles because the girl looks so peaceful right now. Luna know the girl was alone and knows the hardships she will face when she returns to school on Monday, after all she had similar hardships when she was her age. She wanted to do whatever it takes to help her. She then felt hungry and decided she would head up stairs to the kitchen to get some breakfast for her and Sunset. She grabs her phone and walks out of the room. She goes to the end of the hall where the stairs are and walk up them. When she arrives she is greeted by the her friends who helped Sunset. " Good morning, Luna, " greeted Potion Nova who was at the table reading a medical journal. "Morning," Said Luna. " What would you like to eat, Luna? " asked Chrysalis who was cooking pancakes on the stove. " Coffee and three pancakes each for me and Sunset. " answered Luna. "Coffees on the counter, " replied Chrysalis. Luna sat down at the table after pouring her self a cup of coffee. She pulled out her phone to see a bunch of text messages from her girlfriend, Celestia, and from the girls asking how Sunset was doing. She smiled happily and sent a text to all of them. Celestia text back that she would be by in a little while. " How is she? " asked Nova looking from her book. "Still sleeping when I left the room." Luna answered. "One of us will check her injuries and then she can probably go home," said Nova. " That's good, but I feel like I should be doing more to help her. " " You said she was undocumented, right? Have you tried asking Tempest about it? " asked Chrysalis as she laid Luna's plate of pancakes on the table in front of her. " No. I just found out about all this last night. Plus I don't think she would be able to falsify documents without someone finding out," answered Luna cutting her pancakes. " What about Discord, I'm sure he would want to help you out again? " asked Nova. " That might work, but Celestia probably won't like it. " "She still hasn't forgiven him for what he did to help you and Tempest?" asked Chrysalis as she made the last batch of pancakes for Sunset. " No , but I'm going to try to convince her to go talk to him about it and hope they can bury the hatchet for Sunset. " "You really want to help this girl don't you?" asked Nova as she took a sip of her cup of coffee, "Maybe you should think about getting guardianship of her. That would solve most of her problems." "I have, I just don't know if she'll go for it and it's something I should talk to Tempest and Celestia about first." Luna said as she took a other bite of her food and a sip of her coffee. "Speaking of Tempest, how are things going between you two lovebirds?" asked Chrysalis. "Great! I couldnt ask for a better girlfriend." Luna answered happily as she finishes her breakfast. Luna got up and grabbed the plate of pancakes for Sunset and a cup of coffee. "Well I better head back down and check on Sunset." " I'll come with you, " said Chrysalis following her out of the kitchen. ***************** Sunset awoke still feeling a little weak. Her head and back still hurt but not as much as it was before. She could feel the bandages wrap around her head and back. She looks around and realizes she was not in her room. She then begins to panic, pulls her legs up to chest and wraps her arms around them. She begins to cry and rocks back and forth on the bed. What's going on, where am I. Is this some government facility. After all the things I did I wouldn't be surprised if they did. It's what I deserve. thought Sunset The door opens which causes Sunset to jump. In walks Luna with a plate of pancakes and a cup of coffee. A dark skinned woman walks in behind her. Sunset didn't know her which causes her to panic more. Luna noticed the panicked state Sunset is in and sets the food on the counter next to the bed. "Sunset it's ok , there's nothing to be afraid of. " Luna said sitting on the bed next to Sunset. "Where am I?" Sunset asked in a panicked tone. "Your at my friends private clinic." answered Luna trying to sound reassuring. "I brought you to them last night after I found out about your injuries." Sunset was quiet in thought for a moment as she tried to remember the events of last night. She remembers putting on Twilight's crown then turning in to that demon. Then Twilight and her friends stop her. She then was clean up the mess she made. She fell down and Luna found out about her injuries caused by her transformation into that demon. Then Luna and the girls took her to Luna car, but after that thing about foggy. She slowly began to calm down. Chrysalis was surprised at how Luna got her to calm down so easy, but remembered Luna had similar experiences in the past. Once she was sure she was calmed down, Chrysalis introduced herself,"Hello. My name is Chrysalis. My partner Potion Nova and I are the ones who fixed you up at Luna's request." " You didn't need to do that. I'm not someone worth saving, plus I don't have the money to pay you," said Sunset. "Now Sunset don't put yourself down like that and you don't need to worry about the money," said Luna. " Whatever, " said Sunset unconvinced. "Now I brought you some breakfast and the doctors are going to check your injuries one more time before you can go home." Luna said as she got up and left the room to give Sunset some space to let Chrysalis do her job. Once Luna walks out of the room, Chrysalis walk over to the counter on the far side of the room to get her stethoscope and thermometer and began to check Sunset's temperture, pulse, and injuries. "You know," Chrysalis said as she worked " You may find it hard to believe, but there are some people who care about you. Luna, Celestia, and even that young very fashionable girl where really worried about you. " "Luna even stay with you all night." Chrysalis said pointing to the near by cot. Sunset look at the cot and was surprised at what she was just told. She stay quiet as the doctor finishing check her. When Chrysalis finished she said " Now eat up. I made those pancakes myself. I hope you enjoyed them. " Once she walk out of the room, Sunset pick up the plate of pancakes and began to eat them. She thought they tasted really good. ************************* After Luna left Sunset with Chrysalis, she walked back to the front room to find Celestia talking with Potion Nova. She walk up to them to and joined the conversation. "Hey Tia, when did you get here?" asked Luna. "A few minutes ago. How's Sunset doing?" asked Celestia. " Well I just talked her down from a panic attack, " answered Luna. " Is she alright? " asked a worried Celestia. " Yes. She's fine, " said Luna, "Its my fault I shouldn't have left her alone before she woke up." It's was quiet for a few minutes till Chrysalis joined them in the front room. "Ok, I'm going give her so medicine for her pain and anxiety," said Chrysalis. "Do you think it will help her? " asked Luna worryingly. "It should. And you did a good job calming her down from her panic attack." " You really think so?" asked Luna, "I feel like all I can do is worry about her." " That's proof you would be a good guardian for her." said Celestia with a soft smile Luna looks at Celestia surprised "You knew?" " Luna, I know you pretty well, and Nova and I were talking about it before you came in here. I even talked to Tempest about it already too, " said Celestia proudly, "And I already decided to go talk to Discord about Sunset's papers before I got here. I'm going to go see him after I leave here. " "Aren't you not still mad at him?" asked Luna. "Yes I am still mad at him, but I can put my feelings aside to help you and Sunset. That's more important right now. " "Thank you Tia. " said Luna happily, " Just get him to get Sunset into the system and I'll get Tempest to get the legal copys. " "No problem." ********************** After Sunset had finished eating, she decided to lay back down till she was time to leave. Luna and Celestia walked in to the room after a little while. " Sunset, before we leave we want to talk to you, " said Luna. Sunset turned over and then sat up in the bed to look at them. "About what? " Sunset asked worryingly. "What do plan to do after everything that happened? I want know if you going stay here or return to Equestria someday?" Asked Luna. "We want to know what kind of future you see for yourself. " added Celestia " I don't know. I hadn't really thought about anything beyond taking Twilight 's crown and even if I wanted to go home it won't be possible for another two and a half years. So I'm stuck here for now," Said Sunset sadly. " Well your one of the smartest girls I've see come though the halls of our school. I think you could easily be able to get into a good collage and get a good job in the future.If you choose to stay here," said Celestia honestly. " But to do that I need money, which means I need a job, which I can't get since I don't have any government papers. " " We can fix that and give you a chance to make a future here if you want to, " said Luna. "How?" asked Sunset "An old friend who would be more than willing to help," answered Celestia. " And I can get guardianship of you in case anything happens to you. Will be there to help," said Luna. "Why? " asked Sunset in a low tone. Then back in her normal tone said "I'll probably just cause you more trouble. And everyone going to hate me after what I've done. "Not everyone hates you Sunset. Celestia and I wouldn't be here if we didn't. And I wouldn't have bothered to bring you here to get you fixed up. " Said Luna "Well you can't protect all the time and all the kids at school hate me for all the things I did. They'll probably all treat me the way I did them. " said Sunset on the edge of crying, "It's just what I deserve! " " You're wrong about that ." Luna said as she pulled her phone out of her pocket "There are some other people who care and worry about you." She pulls up the message she had with the girls this morning and show them to Sunset. Sunset begins to the read the messages. Rarity : How Sunset this morning? Is there anything I can do to help? Fluttershy : I hope Sunset ok. If she needs someone talk to I can be there for her. Pinkie Pie : I hope shes feeling better! I want to throw a her welcome back party when she's get out! Applejack : Ah I hope I'm not intruding, but Ah was just wondering how was Sunsets doing? Rainbow Dash : Not that I care or anything, but I figured I'd ask how Sunsets doing . There was even a message from Flash , Celestia, and someone she didn't know as well. Flash Sentry : Rarity told me what happened. I know things have been rocky between us but still I would like to know how she is doing. Celestia : Hows Sunset doing? Douse she need anything? I'll be at the clinic in a little while. Tempest : Hey Luna are you doing ok? Is the girl ok? Is there anything you need me to do to help? Sunset began to cry. She was surprised and happy by the messages. She didn't think any of them would care care about her at all. Luna puts her phone back in her pocket and wraps Sunset in a hug. This causes her to cry even more. After a few minutes Sunset pulls out of the hug and looks to her principals and says. " Thank you. I know I don't deserve your kindness or there's, but... I'm happy. I'll take what help I can get. " " So your ok with me get guardianship of you? " asked Luna "Yes, and I'm ready to go home." Luna hugs her again and says " Thank you for giving me a chance. " Luna and Sunset head for the door. They both thank the doctors on the way out. Celestia and the doctors watched as they drove out of sight. "You know those two are a lot alike,p" said Nova. " Yes. Yes they are, " said Celestia in agreement. > Chapter 4 Sunsets home > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As Luna and Sunset leave the clinic, Luna asks " So were do you really live at Sunset? " "So you've already checked my file haven't you? " said Sunset not surprised. " Yes, after Twilight told us about you being from another world we realized you must have been alone all this time," Luna answered honestly, "Finding out where you were currently living was one first the things we thought of." "Ok, but I need to stop at the school first to get some of my things and my bicycle." "Do you ride your bike to school every day? " asked Luna worryingly. "Usually i would just ride to the nearest bus stop to my home and ride the bus the rest of the way. I would hide by bicycle in the alley way till I got back," Answered Sunset. " But because of the slight time difference between here and Equestria had get to the school really early to access the portal. So I had to leave my bicycle hidden behind the school, " said Sunset sadly remembering what happened the night before. "Ok, but then your going show me your were you live." "I promise." *********************** Is was about noon on Saturday and Rarity was sitting at a table in the back of Sugercube Corner waiting for her friends to arrive. Well everyone exempt Pinkie Pie who was already here working and would join her when the others arrived. Applejack was the first to arrive. She order a glass of apple cider and joined Rarity in the back. "Hey Rarity, have you heard anymore about Sunset?" She asked as she sat down at the table. " Yes , Vice principal Luna is taking her home. " "That's good. But that's not the only thing that's been bothering me," Said Applejack. " You're referring to what Rainbow said aren't you, Darling? " asked Rarity. "Ya. I'm worried that she's not going to give Sunset a chance." She said worryingly, "Ah mean Ah know shes done some terrible things in the past and Ah don't trust her right now ether. But since Twilight asked us to help her, Ah honestly want to give her a chance." " Yes she certainly seems that way, but I think part of it is act. " "You really think so? "Asked Applejack "I mean think about Darling, out of all of us she the most loyal to her friends and Sunset still managed to break that. She probably feels like she failed her friends by letting that happen." " So you think she's worried it will happen again, " said Applejack, "That would explain a lot." "Fluttershy and Rainbow are here and there making there order. So Mrs.Cake said I could go on break now too!" Pinkie pie said as sat down at the table with a plate of cupcakes and asked, "Watcha talking about?" " How Rainbow -" was all Applejack managed to say before Pinkie interrupted her "Oooooh you mean how Rainbow is the most loyal to us but that didn't stop Sunset from break us up especially her and Fluttershy cause you know how long those two have been together together and Sunset bullied Fluttershy the most and hates herself just an much as she hates Sunset for everything that happened," Pinkie said fast and in a single breath. They looked at her surprised and Applejack said," Wait wait wait back up ah minute, when ya say together did mean? " What you didn't know? " "Ya Fluttershy how did she know? " Rainbow asks Fluttershy as they both arrive to the table in time to hear part of Pinkies explanation " Well you know it hard to hide anything from Pinkie, " said quietly blushing Fluttershy as they sat down at the table. "Well color me surprised," replied Applejack. "Will don't congratulate us yet we aren't back together yet," Said Rainbow sadly. "Will if it help, I hope you two get back together." said Rarity hopefully but turned serious as she said "but we probably shouldn't let Sunset hear about breaking up your relationship. I'm sure she feels bad enough as it is. " " How are we going help Sunset? " asked Fluttershy. "O o o we should throw her a party welcoming her as our new friend! " said Pinkie excitingly. "Or maybe we can just ask her to hang out with us," suggested Applejack. " I don't think we should help her. " said Rainbow " Now Rainbow if we did that we would no better that she was and we would disappoint Twilight by not trying," Rarity pointed out. "Ya fine but that doesn't mean I have to like it. " " But I think the best thing we can do is approach her one at a time so we don't overwhelm her." They were all nodded in agreement except Rainbow who just shruggedher shoulders. "So who whats to help Sunset first? " asked Rarity. ********************* "Turn left here, then turn left on a unmarked gravel road a little ways down, " instructed Sunset. After they got Sunset bike and few things from her locker, they made there way to Sunsets home. The way to Sunset home was just outside of town near Sweet Apple Aches and the Dream Valley Ranch. Luna turns on the gravel road and ride down it a little to Sunset home. It was small old looking ranch style house that look ready to collapse. Luna parked the her car and got out to help Sunset with her stuff. " You don't have to get out," Sunset said, " I can get my stuff. " "Sunset if I'm going to be your guardian I need to see your home life for myself. "Ok but I promise it's not much to look at." They walk into the front door of the old house. Sunset sets her bike next to the door and opens the unlocked door. They walked inside and Luna examined the area. It look just as old inside as it did outside. Inside was a living room that Sunset turned into a bedroom. She sees a mattress in the floor and A pile of blankets next to it. She could see an guitar that was missing a few strings sitting on a stand near the bathroom door. In the other side of the room she sees a old desk with a small stack of folded clothes. Sunset placed her things on floor next to her bed . Sunset turns to Luna and asks " What do you think? " "Sunset how have you been able to live here all this time? Do you even have water or electricity?" asked a worried Luna. "Well I don't have electricity but I do have water. The waters always cold thou. I don't eat meat so I've gotten by on cheap cans of vegetables with money I got from bully the other kids." explained Sunset sadly at the last part. "This is not a good way to live Sunset. " "Will I've been able to get by just fine for the last 2 years," said Sunset a little frustrated at Luna's comment. "How did you even find this place?" asked Luna. Sunset sat down on her bed and said, "When I arrived here in this world it didn't go unnoticed. I was found by someone who knew about Equestria. It turns out I wasn't the first pony come though the portal. They told me there family has watched over the portal for generations. They helped me get use to this body and told me I could use this place. There the ones who also forged my school papers for me. " "Who are they?" "I can't tell you that. " Sunset explained, "I promised I wouldn't tell anyone in exchange for them helping me. And they told me about this place since I planned to go back home so I had done here to stay till the portal reopened." "What are you going to do now that your still here?" "I don't know. I never thought about anything beyond my misplaced need for revenge." Sunset answered sadly "Sunset as your soon to be guardian, let me find you a better place than this." " This place is perfect for me. " "How so? " "A terrible place for a terrible person. " Luna hated see Sunset talk down to her self like this. I reminded her of times in her past when she thought the same about herself. It had took the help of her sister and their friends to get her out of that dark place. She knew Sunset was alone in this world and wanted to help Sunset the same way that they helped her. Luna sat down on the bed next to her. "Sunset I wouldn't be a very good guardian or person if let you stay here. " explained Luna. "I know been you've been on your own for a long time but you don't have to do that anymore. So please let me find you a better place to stay and you wont need to worry about food or money cause I'll make sure you have everything need to get by." Luna said as tears rolled down her cheeks as she pleaded with a to let her help. Sunset began to cry too " Why would you go so far for me? " "Because I was like you once. I was in a similar place emotionally too and I couldn't have gotten thru it with out my sister and our friends." They both were quiet for a moment as their tears dried up. Sunset broke the silence first," Thank you for the offer, but if it's alright with you I'll like to think about it. " "Ok but if need anything please call me." Luna said giving Sunset a piece of paper with her number on it. " They said there goodbyes and Luna drove away even more worried about Sunset then she was before. ************* Celestia arrive at a small house in small cul-de-sac. She parked her car in the drives way and got out. She hadn't talked to Discord in along time and all honesty she been avoiding it. But she didn't come here to make amends with him. She was here for Sunset and Luna. She walked to the door and rings the bell. After the second try she heard someone come. When the door opens she is greeted by a tall man with white hair and a short beard. He is in dressed a sweater vest with a white shirt underneath with a pair of kakes. He was smiling when he saw who was at the door "Why Celestia, it's been so long since I've seen you! Come on in, " He said welcoming her inside. She walked inside and followed him to his living room. It looked the same as it did the last time was here. There was a fire place with a flat screen tv above it and multiple shelves of books. She sat down in a chair next to the door and he asked, "Can I get you anything? A glass of tea maybe?" " Yes tea would be fine," she answered. He went down the hall to his kitchen to make some tea and about ten minutes later returned with a tray in hand with a teapot and cups on it. He sat the tray on the small table next to Celestia and sits in the chair on the other side of the table. As he pours tea into there cups he asks, " So how have you been doing, my dear? " "I'm doing fine but I didn't come here to catch up. I need a favor," She said as she took a sip of her tea. " Anything for you Celestia, my dear. " "It's more for Luna and one of our students," Celestia explained. She then explained everything that's happened over the last 2 years. Everything from Sunset being from another world to how she bully all the students to turning into a demon and how she was stopped by six girls using the magic of friendship. He sat quietly for a few minutes prossessing what she told him. When he finally spoke he asked "Ok I'll help. What do you need me to do?" "I need you to hack in to the government database and create a file for Sunset so that Tempest can file papers to give Luna guardianship of Sunset. We wat give her a chance at a future here in this world, " explained Celestia. "You do realize this is illegal. Last time I used my hacking skills illegally to help Luna and Tempest you broke up with me and refused to talk to me for the last 15 years." " I know and I'm sorry for the way I treated you, but this time this really is the only way to help her. " He thought for a moment and answers ."Ok but it will take a few days." " Thank you." Celestia said as she finished her tea."Oh and let me know if you find any information about this world's version of Sunset." She then got up to leave and Discord escorted her to the door. Before she walks out the door he says, "It was nice talking to you again Celestia. I hope we can talk again soon. I really have missed you. " "So did I." she admitted while smiling happily . ****************** Luna walk in to the house she shared with her girlfriend Tempest. She was greeted by her when she walks in. "Hey babe, how did it go?" Asked Tempest. Luna walk into the living room and slumped down into a chair. Tempest rush over to her side. "Luna what happened? " Luna looked up at her tears pouring down her face. "You should seen it. It was terrible. She's been living in an old abandon house outside of town. She has no electricity and she barely had anything in that house. I even offered to get her a better place. But she believes she deserve to be in a place like that." " Well once I get the guardianship papers your be able to provide for her everything she needs. " "Douse that mean?" "Yes, I just talk Celestia and Discord's going to help. It's going to take a few days for him to get it done and then it will take me a couple more days get the papers." "So I could have guardianship of her within aweek? " "That's about right." Luna was happy at the news she pulled Tempest into tight hug. After a minute she let go. "Tempest, when I offered to find Sunset a place to live I was thinking -" "You what her to come live with us in the spare bedroom, right?"asked Tempest knowing what she was going to say. "Yes, if that's ok with you," Luna said hopefully. " It is." "You really are the best girlfriend I could ask for." Luna spent the rest of the night happily thinking about how things will be with Sunset living with them. > Chapter 5 Preparations > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset found herself alone in a dark empty void. Then a pillar fire erupted a few feet in front of her and from the pillar appeared the Demon from the fall formal. She was laughing with evil intent. The Demon spoke, "Do you really think you can be forgiven for everything you've done? Do you believe anyone really what's to help you? " "What do you what?" Sunset said glaring at the demon. "To show you that know matter you do," The Demon said as she walked closer to Sunset. "No what you say, no matter where you go," The Demon stopped walking when she we she at arm length from Sunset "YOU CAN NEVER CHANGE WHO YOU ARE! The Demon raised her hands in th air and caused the hole void to be engulfed in flame. The flames were so bright, Sunset had to close eyes. When the flames disappeared, she opened her eyes to find herself back to the night of the fall formal. She saw the crater she found herself in that that night. She could still the wounds on her back from that night. She walked over to the crater expecting to find herself in it, But she was wrong. What she found was the six girls who tried to stop her. "No. This isn't what happened," Sunset said. She reached her hand but was horrified by what she saw. Her arm was red and her hand had claws. She checked her other hand and it had changed too. She then checked her back. She was wrong before about still feeling the wounds on her back. It was her wing that she felt. She had become the Demon again She could her the Demon speaking to her in her head. "This is what you are and all you will ever be! "Nnnnnooooo" Sunset screamed as she suddenly awoke in a hot sweat. She got out of bed and grabbed her phone and quickly when to the bathroom. She used the light feature on her phone so she could see her reflection in the mirror. She had to check, she had to make sure she hadn't turned back into the Demon. She let out the breath she didn't realize she was holding once she saw there were no changes to her body. She felt like the wings were still there like a phantom pain. Then she returned to bed to try to go back to sleep, but sleep she could not find anymore that night. ************* Luna go up early that Sunday morning and started cleaning out the spare bedroom that had been used for storage up until now. A lot of what was in there was stuff she did need anymore. She moved what stuff she wanted to keep to her room except some old furniture and old clothes that looked like they might fit Sunset. Everything else she packed into her car and Tempest's van. Anything still useable that Sunset probably couldn't use they took to Goodwill and everything else when to the dump. Then she when out to get a few things for the room like a new bed and bedsheets. She didn't get much, but if Sunset need anything else she decided she would take her shopping for it later. Luna spent most of the day getting things set up for Sunset and cleaning the room from top to bottom. Once was done she joined Tempest in the living room to relax next to her. "You know I can't remember the last time I've seen you this excited," Tempest said smiling at Luna. "I really am. I just hope I'm not coming on too strongly, " Luna said a little worried, " I don't what to make her think I'm force her into this. " Tempest wraps her arms around her and says "If she's as smart as you say she is, she'll realize this is what's best for her." " I hope your right, " Luna said as she turned on the tv to watch the weather report. ************* Sunset spend most of the day Sunday trying to catch up on a week's worth of school work she had avoided doing because she thought she would be back in Equestria by now. It took so long because she didn't get much sleep after the nightmare she had. Which made it harder to focus on her work. When she finished it was time for the sun to go down. She went to the cabinet in the kitchen to get something to eat. When she open the cabinet she noticed she only a few cans left. She knew she barely had any money left. She didn't bother bullying any students for there money last week ether. "Maybe I should take the vice principals offer. " Sunset thought to herself She grabbed a can of mixed vegetables and opens it with a hand cranked can opener. She grabbed a plastic spoon still in its wrapper, which she took a bunch of them from school. She sat at the old desk she had been doing her school work on. She ate her can of vegetables while think over the vice principals offer. "There no way I can survive alone now, unless I continue to being the bully I have been." "But I don't what to be that person anymore. I want to be better." She continued think about the offer by comparing the pros and cons of it. But what worried her the most was whether the vice principal would take any time out of her day for her. When she was in the orphanage there were so many misplaced ponies there that she was alone most of the time until the princess took her in as her student. The princess made plenty of time for her in the beginning but after a while she became distant with her. Which drove her to where she is at now. in the end she still hasn't decided yet but she was leaning towards saying yes. She went to bed after she finished eating. Hoping to get more sleep then she did the night before. ************ Sunset awoke Monday morning to the sound of rain outside. "Damn it, after everything that's happened the last few days I forgot to check the weather." Sunset hated riding her bike in the rain. Normally when it rained she would just call in sick or get Flash to give her a ride. Neither of those choices are available this time since Flash broke up with hIm. And if she doesn't show up at school she's sure the vice principal would probably come looking for her. She thought about calling the vice principal for a ride but she wasn't ready to talk to her yet. Not until she had made a decision. She got up and got dressed. She decided to skip breakfast since she didn't have much food left. She got her stuff together and went out the door. As she is about to get on her bike she hears someone coming up the driveway. When she saw the car coming up the driveway she recognized it as the vice principals car. When the vice principal finished pulling up into the driveway she rolled down her window and called out to Sunset. "Hey do you need a ride?" the vice principal asked. Sunset didn't bother questioning her intentions. She was just happy to not have to ride her bike in the rain. She quickly got in the car before she got any wetter. "Thanks." said Sunset gratefully. " Your welcome, " Luna said "And I'm sorry." Sunset looked at Luna confused "For what?" " For just show up here like this without asking or telling you first. " " That's ok. " said Sunset happily "Honestly I was happy when I saw you pull up." Luna blushes happily as they left Sunsets home. As they got into town Luna asked "Hey it's still early would you like to stop and get something to eat? My treat." Sunset wanted to say no but the grumbling of her stomach changed her mind. "Sure. I would like that. " They stopped at a coffee shop near the school. They went inside and sat at a small two person table. They both got a cup of coffee and a blueberry muffin. "How are you feeling?" Asked Luna. " A lot better now thou my back still hurts depending on the way I move. " After few minutes of drinking and eating Sunset asked, "Can I ask you a question?" "You just did, " Luna said jokingly, " but sure what do you what to know? " "Why did decided to come and get me?" "I was worried that you might try to ride your bike to school in the rain. I didn't want to see you get sick. I also thought you might skip school to avoid going out in the rain too . Which could get you in more trouble since your supposed to report to my sister's office today. " Sunset thought about Luna answered for a moment. When the princess took her in it was all because of her magical ability but her vice principal seems to really care about who she is and not what she can do. She was happy that someone cares about her in that way. "Thanks for caring about me," said Sunset with a smile on her face for the first time in a long time. They finished there coffee and muffins and went to school. > Chapter 6 First day back > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset and Luna arrive at the school as the rain continues to fall. Sunset noticed something different about the school when they arrive. There is a big tarp draped over the front entrance to keep the rain out and signs to direct everyone to the other entrances. Luna parks her car in the faculty parking and they get out. They try to get in the school as quickly as possible before they get too wet. Sunset follows Luna to the main office where her and principal Celestia offices are. When they arrive they are greeted by Raven Inkwell the school secretary. "Good morning Luna! Good morning Sunset ! I hope y'all didn't get too wet on your way in," Greeted Raven. "No not too bad." Answered Luna, " Is my sister in yet? "Yes, but she stepped out for few minutes." "Ok, let us know when she gets back." "No problem." Luna turns to Sunset and motions her to follow, " Come with me to my office Sunset. I have a towel you can use to dry off with. " Sunset follows her to her office. Luna opens the closet in her office and pulls out a couple of towels and hands one to Sunset. Sunset take it and the both of them try the best they can to get somewhat dry. Once they finished, Sunset handed the towel back to Luna and she hangs them on the coat rack in her office. Before Sunset could sit down and relax there a knock at the door. "Come in!" Said Luna. The door opens and Mrs.Inkwell pops her head in. "Your sisters here and she's ready to see Sunset." " Ok, thank you Raven. " Luna said and then turned to Sunset. "Are you ready?" "Ready as I'll ever be," Sunset respond a little nervous. Sunset follows Luna into Celestia office. They are greeted by the principal when they walk in. " Good morning Luna, " greeted Celestia. " Good morning Tia," Luna said return her greeting. "And good morning you to Sunset, please have seat," Celestia said gesturing to the chair on opposite side of her desk. As Sunset sat down in the chair, Luna walk over to stand beside her sister. "How are you doing Sunset?" Asked Celestia " I'm doing ok. My back still hurts a little bit. And I'm still feeling bad about everything happened since I came here, " answered Sunset sadly. "That's good. The fact that you realize what you did was wrong is the first step towards become a better person or pony in your case, " Celestia said with a smile. But her tone turns serious when she says, "But you still have to pay the price for what you've done." This is it she probably going to kick me out of school now and what a I'm going to do. Sunset thought herself while looking down at her feet. But look up quickly surprised when she heard her principals verdict. " Your going to serve one month of doing chores around the school and you will be in detention when your not doing chores. " Sunset was speechless. She was so sure she was going be kicked out. " As for today, " continued Celestia, " you will be in detention. " Tears well up as Sunset says, "Thank you...thank you so much for giving me a chance." Celestia smiles and says, "Your welcome and your dismissed." Sunset thanks them both once more as she walks out of the office. Once she's gone, Luna walks over and sits in the chair that Sunset was sitting in. "So what kind of chores are going have her do?" Asked Luna curiously. " I have a few ideas but we've got to talk to a few people first. " ************ Sunset walks down the hallway on the way to the detention room. She hears the whispers of the students as she walks though the halls. "What's She doing here? " "I can't believe she can show her self here after what did. " "There probably going to kick her out." "I hope they do!" "I can't believe they let her come back to school. " Sunset begins to walk faster to try to get to detention so she doesn't have to hear them and their hurtful words anymore. She feels like she going to cry as the students words got worse. "The She demons here." "Someone should do something about her." " She doesn't belong here." "Look it's the she demon somebody's an exorcist. " Sunset finally made it to the empty detention room and sat down at a desk and cried quietly to herself til the teacher other students arrived. *************** Celestia hangs up the phone and signs. She had just finished speaking with school board director Neighsay about what had happened the other night. Of course she didn't tell him what really happened. She told him it was a prank involving fireworks and a gas leak. He didn't sound convinced but he had no reason to mistrust her ether. A few minutes later there was a knock at her door. " Come in. " Her sister Luna walks in, sits down, and asks "So how did it go? " "Well he wasn't happy about it, but I think he bought the story I told him. He said it will probably be a few days before a construction crew and landscaping company can come out a fix the front entrance and the crater, " answered Celestia. "Well I've spoken with Granny Smith and Mrs Cheerilee. Grannys willing to let Sunset help her in the cafeteria starting tomorrow before and after lunch. Sunset will also help Mrs.Cheerilee in the library tomorrow as well." "That's good. What about Coach Ironhead?" "He'll be back tomorrow so we'll have to wait till then to talk to him. I'm also going to talk to Rarity and Pinkie pie after lunch." "Ok" answered Celestia before changing the subject, " but how are you doing? " Luna sighed " Ok I guess. I'm excited to be Sunsets guardian. I'm also excited that she might soon be living with me, but I'm worried she'll say no and that scares me. I gave her a ride to school this morning and she told me she was happy to see me. We even had a nice talk at the coffee shop This morning too. " "Sounds like things are going good so far." "Yes for me maybe but not for Sunset," Luna said worryingly. "What do you mean?" "When I was walking down the halls to speak with Granny and Mrs.Cheerilee I heard some of the students talking badly about Sunset. A lot of the students are still holding grudges against her." " I'm not surprised, " said Celestia matter-of-factly " It's going to be long and hard road to get the students to forgive her after everything she done to them. But with you, me, and those five girls she won't have to do it alone. " "I just hope that will be enough. " ********* Sunset sat in detention working on her math work Mr.Cranky sent for her to do. Sunset wasn't in ISS by herself. Right now Mrs. Williams the History teacher is on duty right now and there are few other students in there as well. Snips and Snails were there, they got a week of ISS for there part in what happened at the fall formal. Rover who was one of the diamond dogs and Rolling Thunder one of the Washouts was here too. There was a big dark skinned red headed guy named Pharynx as well. The lunch bell rings. " Ok you are dismissed for lunch but you all better be back before third period starts . " said Mrs.Williams All of them got up and walked out of the room. Sunset was the last one to leave, but before she could make it out of the room the teacher called out to her. " Sunset can i have a word with you before you leave," asked Mrs.Williams. "Sure," Sunset said as she walks over to the teachers desk. "So what are you planning on doing now that your still here?" " I don't know yet," Sunset said unsure, "For now I'm just gonna continue the life of a high school student and try to make up for the things I've done." " You know when you first arrived here and I helped you find a place in this world, I didn't think you would try to take over two worlds." "I never planned on that happening. I wanted power because I thought I needed it and I was wrong about that." "Well I hope things turn out better for you. " "Thanks and Thank you for all the help you gave me since I first arrived Mrs.Williams." "Sunset I told you before when it's just us you can call me Megan." "Thanks Megan," Sunset said before she left the room for lunch. *************** As Sunset made her way to the lunch, she tried her best to ignore the whispers of the other students. She finally got to the doors to the cafeteria and she could hear the sound of the students on the other side. She opens the door and suddenly the cafeteria becomes quiet as all eyes turn to her. Sunset tried to look away from them as she got in line to get her lunch. Soon the cafeteria became noisy again but not as loud as it was before. Sunset is in line for a few minutes before it's was her turn. She gets a plate of mashed potatoes and green beans. She also gets a bottle of water to drink. She then searches for place to sit and spots a empty table in the back and make her way to it. She didn't get far though because someone stuck there foot out and tripped her. She falls and lands face first in to her plate of mash potatoes. Her water bottle and and green beans went flying across the room. Then most of the students in the cafeteria pointed and laugh at her louder then they were before she walk in. Sunset with her face covered in mash potatoes, quickly gets up and running a out of the cafeteria with tears rolling down her face. She had to run. She had to get out of there. It was all she could think about. She had run and hide from there hateful glances and there hateful words. She hated herself even more now for subjecting other to the same the pain of humiliation she feels now. The Demons word ring in ears once more as she continues to run, "Do you really think you can be forgiven for everything you've done? Do you believe anyone really what's to help you? " ****Meanwhile back in the cafeteria***** One group of girls, who didn't laugh at Sunset, watched as she ran out of the cafeteria. "Should we go after her?" asked Pinkie Pie. "She got what she deserved as far as I'm concerned," said Rainbow Dash. "That doesn't make it right," said Rarity glaring at Rainbow. " Uhh guys, " said Applejack trying to get their attention. " Where did Fluttershy go? " The others look back to were Fluttershy was sitting then to the rest of the cafeteria, wondering where she disappeared to. They spot a flash of pink hair exiting the cafeteria. ****Before Sunset arrived******* Fluttershy was in the cafeteria before her friends. She sat down the table with her plate of mashed potatoes and green beans. She slowly ate while thinking back to the conversation she had with her friends the other day. "So who whats to try to help Sunset first? " asked Rarity. "I'll-," is all Fluttershy said before. "O o o o let me go first!!!! Said Pinkie Pie excitingly loud. "I'll -," "Ah don't know Pinkie, I think you might be a little too much for her," said Applejack. "Awww," said Pinkie pie a little sad. "I'll -," " I still don't think we shouldn't bother with this," said Rainbow Dash. "I'll -," " Rainbow, you need to at least give her a chance!" said Rarity. "Why?" "Because --- I'LL DO IT!!!! said Fluttershy as loud as she could. They all turn to her surprised by the usually quiet girl's outburst. "I'll do it!" She repeated in her normal voice. "Darling, are you sure? "Rarity asked worryingly. " Yes! " she said with as much determination as she could. "Are you crazy? She pick on more than anyone!" Ranted Rainbow Dash, "You have more reason to hate her than anyone!" "Come on Rainbow, this Fluttershy were talking about. She doesn't have a hateful bone in her body," said Pinkie. "But still--" " Rainbow I know your still mad about what she did to all of us especially how she broke us up. In all honestly though, if Sunset was able to exploit the cracks in our relationship then we have some things to work out before we can try to get back together, " Fluttershy said in a serious tone. Rainbow Dash was quiet after that and didn't try to argue the point any further. "Well ahm convinced," said Applejack. "Agreed," said Rarity. Fluttershy wanted to approach her this morning but she looked stressed by what people were saying about her. She wasn't sure how or when was the best way to approach her. She continued to think on it as the rest of her friends arrived at the table. Pinkie Pie was the first to ask. "So any luck yet?" Fluttershy shook her head and said, " No, the only time I've seen her to day was this morning and she looked like was in a hurry to get away from the other students. " "Yes, a lot of the students are saying a lot of mean things about her," said Rarity sadly "Hey, is it me or did it suddenly get quiet in here?" asked Applejack. They looked around till they found the reason why everyone became quiet. They notice Sunset had just walk in to the room. When she got in line for lunch, sound return to the room and the girls continued there lunch. A few minutes later they heard a crash and a bang.The girls all got up and saw Sunset on the floor. Then they hear most of the students begin to laughing at her. Fluttershy sees Sunset get up and run. She grabs her plate of food and runs after her without a second thought. She had to catch up to her. She hated herself a little bit for waiting this long to approach her. But now was not the time for self loathing, Sunset needs help. She needs a friend now more than even. She follow her the best could but Sunset still had a decent head start. By the time she caught up to her, Sunset was sitting next to the east stairwell. She was was crying and holding her legs against her chest. Fluttershy approached her cautiously, worried she might run off again. "Sunset," Fluttershy said in a calm and soothing voice. Sunset looked up with mash potato still covering her face, to the shy quiet girl she use to bully. "Are here to laugh at me too?" asked Sunset. "No," Fluttershy said as she sat down next still holding the plate of food, " I could never do something so mean to someone. " "Here," Fluttershy says as she pulls a handkerchief from her backpack and offers it to Sunset. At the same time her pet bunny Angel pops his head out of her backpack. Sunset asks as she takes the handkerchief from her and cleans her face, " Why are you helping me?" "Because I want to." "But I bullied you more than anyone. I even threaten to get you in trouble for bringing your pets to school. I'm the last person you should be showing kindness to," said a confused Sunset. " Your right you've hurt me with your words and your threats, but I don't see the girl who bullied me here now. I see a girl who feels guilty about the things she did. I see a girl who needs help. Who needs someone to give her a second chance. " "So here. " Fluttershy says offering her plate of partially eaten food. "But that's your lunch. " said Sunset on the edge of crying again, "If you give it to me what are you going to eat?" "Don't worry about me ," Fluttershy said reaches back in to her backpack as Angel hop out to pull a container of carrots out, "I always carry some carrots with me for when Angel gets hungry." Fluttershy opens the container and gives Angel a carrot and takes one out for herself before returning the container back to her backpack. Sunset couldn't hold back the tears anymore as she ate the plate of food Fluttershy was kind enough to give her. When they finished eating Fluttershy says, " I'm sorry. " "What for?" Sunset asked once again confused by the her words . "For waiting this long to approach you. I wanted to talk to you when I saw you this morning but you looked so stressed by what everyone was saying about you. I was worried I was going to push you way if I approached you to soon but that was wrong. I should gone ahead and talked to you then and maybe things may not have turned out the way they did," Fluttershy said sadly. "There's no way you could have known that was going to happen. So its ok. I'm just happy that theres someone who wants to forgive me and be my friend. Thank you Fluttershy. " Fluttershy smiled before she gave her a hug and Sunset hugged her back.They end the hug as they hear someone frantically walking down the hall towards them. Angel quickly jumps back into Fluttershys backpack. A moment later the vice principal appears and runs towards the two girls. "Sunset are you ok? " Luna asked worryingly, "The girls told me what happened. " "Thanks to Fluttershy, I'm ok." Sunset said happily. Luna turns to Fluttershy, " Thank you for looking out for her. " "That's what friends are for!" Fluttershy said smiling brightly. The bell rings for third period so Luna escorts the two girls back to class and detention. Sunset walks back into detention and sits back down at her desk. Snips, Snails,and Pharynx had changed seats so that they were sitting closer to Sunset. Snips and Snails were on each side of her and Pharynx was in front of her. "Hey are you ok Sunset?" asked Snips. " We saw what happened and were worried about you, " said Snails. "Thanks guys, but I'm ok," answered Sunset. Pharynx turns around in his chair and asks Sunset,"How's your head?" " Ok I guess. Why do you ask? " Sunset asked. " I should introduce myself. My name is Pharynx. My mother Chrysalis fixed you up a few days ago," he explained. "Oh I didn't know she had any kids." "Ya I'm the oldest of her three kids. She tault me a few thangs so I could help take care of myself, my brother, and my sister. So do mind if I check your head? " "Sure." she said leaning up so he could check After a couple of minutes he gave his report, "Everything looks good. " "Thanks for making sure I'm ok." "No problem. What they did to you was wrong. So I'm happy that your alright. " "Thanks you guys," Said Sunset happy she was able to make a few friends today. > Chapter 7 Counseling > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pinkie pie and Rarity were in there fourth period English class, when vice principal Luna came by and wanted to speak to them both. They got out of there desk and joined the vice principal in the hallway. "What is it you wanted to speak with us about?" asked Rarity politely. "The principal and I were hoping to get your assistance with Sunset," explained Luna. "Of course! We'd do anything to help Sunset!" said Pinkie happily. "What did you have in mind?" "Pinkie, when will you start putting up the Halloween decorations around the school? asked Luna. "Next week." Pinkie said excitingly "And Rarity have you started making the costumes for the drama clubs Halloween play?" " I'm going to start designing them this weekend. " Rarity said proudly. " And do ether of you mind having Sunset help you? " "We'd be happy for the help, right Pinkie?" " Right. "Pinkie said shaky her head with a big smile," It's going to be so much fun! " " Thank you girls so much, " Luna said proudly. Luna then sends them back to class, but as she turns leave Rarity calls out to her. "Vice principal Luna." "Yes." Luna turns to face her "How is Sunset doing?" Rarity asked worryingly. "The girls and I have been worried about her after what happened in the cafeteria." " She doing alright thanks to Fluttershy. And thanks for letting me know what happened. " "No problem I care a lot about her. The girls do too." said Rarity before she returned to class. ****************** Sunset continued to sit in detention working on the work her teachers sent for her to do. Not long before the fourth and last period of the day ended, vice principal Luna came and got Sunset. Sunset was confused as to why the vice principal wanted to see her. As they walked down the quiet halls of the school Sunset asked the vice principal what was on her mind. "Am I in trouble for something?" She asked worried at what her answer might be. " No, but I understand why you would think that. " Luna answered with a warm smile, "I figured I'd save you from having to deal the other student anymore today." " Thanks," Sunset said appreciating the vice principals kindness. " Plus principal Celestia wants to see you before I take you home." "Are you sure I'm not in trouble again for something?" asked Sunset again. Luna giggles, "Yes I'm sure." A few minutes later the arrive at the main office. Luna sends Sunset to Celestia office and Sunset notices Luna was heading to her own office. "Your not coming too," Sunset asked worryingly. "No not this time," Luna notices the worried look on Sunset's face, " But don't worry my sister won't bite. Unless you have so cake on you. Then you might want to run away. " "I heard that!" Came Celestia's voice from her office. Sunset laughs at the two sister principals. "Thanks." Sunset says before walking into Celestia office. "Please close the door," Celestia asks. Sunset closes the door as the bell marking the end of the day rings. She then sits in the same chair she was in earlier that morning. "Sooo what was you wanted to see me about?" asked Sunset "First, would you like some tea? I just finished making a fresh pot." Celestia asked gesturing to teapot on a portable hot plate sitting on a small file cabinet next to her desk. "Sure." Celestia pulls out two cups from her desk drawer and fills them before passing one of the cups to Sunset. They both have taste of there tea before they continue the conversation. "I was going to wait till tomorrow to do this, but after what happened earlier today I decided it couldn't wait till then." Celestia said getting straight to the point but In a caring tone. " I am going to give some personal counseling. " "You think I need counseling?" Questioned Sunset. " I do, but I'm not going to force you to tell me anything unless you want to. I'm not a shrink. For now I just what to give you a safe place here at the school away from everything else going on. P!ease try to think of me less as your principal or consular and more like a friend. We can talk about anything you want, " Celestia said trying to make Sunset feel more comfortable with her. "Ummm I don't know what I should talk about. " "And thats ok. For now if you want we can just sit here and drink tea . " An ok from Sunset was the last thing said for a few minutes while she pondered in thought. Then she realized that there was something that had been on her mind the last couple of day that she wanted a second opinion on. "Actually there is something that's been on my mind recently." "And what's that?" Celestia asked happy that Sunsets opening up to her. "First off, did the vice principal tell you about were I live?" " Yes and I agree with her that you need a better place to live. " "Well, she offered to find a me better place to live." " She told me that too. But you sound like your unsure about it. " Sunset takes a deep breath and the tells the principal what's on her mind. "It just that I don't think I'll be better off if I'm still living on my own anymore, even if it's a better p!ace then I'm at now." Tears began to form in Sunset's eyes, "I grew up in an orphanage and there were so many other young ponies there that I never really connected with anyone. I just kept to myself and practiced my magic. Then when I was old enough, I tried to get into magic school. My scores were so high that it got the attention of the princess and she took me on as her personal student. "I looked up to her and wanted to be like her. Things were great at first and she was the closest thing to a family ever had. But I got greedy and in my need for power and to prove myself, she pushed me away," Sunset began to cry loudly without even realizing it, "She told to make friends but I didn't understand why. I went against her wishes and she expelled from the castle and as her student. I ran away after that and thats how I got stuck here for the last 2 and a half years alone. " I JUST DON'T WANT TO BE ALONE ANYMORE. " Sunset and Celestia ware both surprised at her outburst. Celestia got up and walk around her desk to try to comfort her. As the principal wrapped her in a hug to comfort her, Sunset felt like a great weight had come off her shoulders that she never knew was there. The principal pulled away and lifted Sunset's head so she was looking at her. "Sunset I promise you wont have to worry about being alone again. I know the place Luna has in mind for you and you won't have to worry about being alone there because she be there ever step of the way to help you." Celestia said as she got a tissue from the tissue box on her desk and handed it to Sunset. "Thank you principal Celestia ." Sunset said before whipping her eyes. Then there was a knock on the door. "Come in." Celestia called out The door opens Luna asks with out showing her face. "Are you ready to go Sunset?" "Ya I'll be there in a minute." Luna says ok before closing the door. Sunset finishes her cup of tea and pick up her stuff. Before walking out the door she turns to her principal and speaks to her one last time before leaving. "Thank you principal Celestia and guess I do need so cousuling. You know the two are the same yet different at the same time. Your more kinder than her too." "I'm the same as who?" Celestia asked curiously who she was being compared to. "My teacher princess Celestia and I'm glad you're not the same as her." As Sunset walked out of the room, Celestia walked back to to chair and thought about what Sunset had to though with her other self. ****A few minutes ago****** Luna walked to her sister office to see if Sunset was ready to go home yet. Just as she about to knock on the door she hears the young girl cry out loud. She heard everything from her being in the orphanage to her admitting she did want to be alone anymore. When Luna heard all this she began to cry for the young girl. She know she was alone but it was worst then she thought. She tries to compose her self before knocking on the door. When her sister answers she opens the door just enough to speak so they wouldn't see her tear covered face. Once she closes the door after getting her answer she walks back into her office and cleans herself up before Sunset sees her face. She walks back out of her office at the same time as Sunset. "So are you ready to go? " asks Luna. "Yep!" Sunset answers. As they make the way to Luna's car, Luna decided she going to try again to convince Sunset. They reached the car a few minutes later and got in. Before Luna started the car, Sunset spoke up. "Uh I can I ask you a question?" "Sure ask away." "Can you find me a place where I don't have to be alone all the time? " "Douse that mean you are accepting my offer to help?" Luna ask surprised and hopeful at the same time. "Yes. Thanks to you, principal Celestia and even Fluttershy I realized can't keep doing this on my own anymore. So yes, I want to find a better place on the stipulation that I don't have live alone anymore. At least for right now." " I have just the place in mind. That is if don't mind living with me in my house. " "Really are you sure?" " Yes I'm sure. In fact I decided I wanted you to come live with me the moment I saw your home. I was worried you weren't going to let me help you. " "I'm sorry for making you worry and thank you for helping me." " So are you ready to go your new home? "Luna said as she started the car. " Yes. Yes I am. " Sunset said as they left the school. > Chapter 8 Luna's home > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Once they left the school, they first went to Sunset place to get her stuff. Sunset went on ahead inside to gather up her stuff, while Luna made a phone call to her girlfriend Tempest. "Hello," answered Tempest. "Hey Tempest, I'm going to be a little late getting home. I'm helping Sunset get her stuff from her place and then will be on our way home." " Dose this mean ? " Tempest asked. "Yep!" Luna says excitingly " She's coming home with me tonight. I'm so excited. " "That's great news!" Tempest said happily, "Well I'm making dinner now, so it should be ready by the time you get here." "That's great! See you soon." " Love you. " "Love you too." said Luna before she hangs up the phone. Luna sends a text letting her sister know about Sunset. She then joins Sunset inside and helps her get her stuff together. Sunset didn't have much so they were able to get everything in Luna's car in one trip. They put almost everything in the trunk of her car except her bike, which was placed in the back seat. Once they left Sunset's place, Luna decided to let Sunset know a few things about her home as well as a few rules. "Sunset there are a few things you need to know about my place." " Like what? " asked Sunset as she turns to look at her. " Well it wont be just you and me at my house. My girlfriend Tempest lives with me too. We got the place together a few years ago. " "What she like? "asked Sunset curiously. "She's the type speaks her mind, but she's a very loving and caring person." "She sound great. I look forward to meeting her." "Sunset you don't have any pet allergies do you?" asked Luna. "Not that I know of, why do you ask?" " Tempest and I both have pets. I have a playful ferret named Tantabus and I wouldn't be surprised if you find her sleeping with you every now and then. Tempest has a pet hedgehog named Grubber. He's very shy so he tends to stay in his cage Tempest's room most of the time," Luna explained. "How long have you had them?" " We got them not long after we moved in, so a few years. " Luna then said in a serious tone, "There are going to be a few rules you have to follow as well." " Like what? " " My room and Tempest's room are off limits. Your are not aloud to go in them unless we give you permission. You will be expected to clean up after yourself and help keep the house clean. If Tempest or I ask you do something you'll be expected to do it and there probably be more rules added down the line as needed." "Ok I'll do my best." "That's all I ask," Luna says smiling. A few minutes later they arrive at Luna house. It was a small two floor house with a garage and average size front and back yard. Luna pulls up into the driveway in front of the garage. They put Sunsets bike next the garage and carry everything else to the front door. Luna opens the door and they are greeted by Tempest as she leaves the kitchen. "Hey babe!" Says Tempest as she hugs Luna and kisses her on the cheek. " Tempest I'd like you to meet Sunset Shimmer. " Luna says as she moves out of the door way to introduces her. "Hello Sunset. My name is Tempest Shadow, it's a pleasure to meet you." She says as she offers her hand for a handsake. Tempest had purple skin and light green eyes. The left side of head shaved and the right side had red shoulder length hair. She had a scar across her right eye. She was wearing jeans and a black tank top with an apron that said how's my cooking?. "Its nice to meet you." Sunset says shaking Tempest's hand. "Well you girls are just in time for dinner. I hope your hungry Sunset. I made roasted vegetables and Mac and chesse." "Sounds good!" Sunset was looking forward to a home cooked meal for change. " I'll show Sunset her room first and then we'll be back down to eat. " "Ok." Tempest says before walking back into the kitchen . Luna took Sunset up stairs to her bedroom. It was at the end of the hallway next to the bathroom but across the hall from Tempest room. Sunset walked into her new room and was shocked and surprised at what she saw. The room was big and had a four poster queen size bed in it. There was a big long dresser with a tv and dvd player on top. There was also a desk for her to do her school work on. "So do you like it?" Asked Luna as she lays some of Sunset 's stuff on the bed. "I do. It's so much bigger and nicer than I expected." Sunset says laying the rest of her stuff on the bed. " I'm glad you like it and just so you know there's some old clothes of mine in the dresser. I thought they might fit you. And if there anything else you need just let me know. " "You don't need to do that. You've already done so much for me. " " But I want to. Not just because I'm going to be your guardian but because I care about you," Luna explained. "Ok. Thank you for everything." "Your welcome. Now let's get something to eat." As Sunset and Luna leave her room, something jumps off the top of the four poster bed and lands on Sunset 's head . "What the he--" she says before it pops in head into Sunset's eyesight. "Ahh." Luna turns around to see what's wrong and immediately realize what happened. "Oh Tantabus there you are. Did you really have to sneak up on the poor girl?." Luna says hold out her hands to Tantabus. Tantabus the ferret jumps into Luna 's arms and climbs up on her sholders. Luna pets her on the head and scratches her chin. "Sorry about that. I did say she was playful." " That's ok I was just surprised. " Sunset reaches out and pets Tantabus on the head. Luna then takes her off her shoulders and place her on the floor. Tantabus then runs off to Luna's room. They then went down stairs to eat dinner. The kitchen was of a moderate size with a round table in the middle of the room. Tempest had already filled her plate and was sitting at the table waiting for them. Luna and Sunset filled there plates and joined Tempest at the table. "Mmm" Sunset said after taking the first few bites "This is really good!" " Thanks. I'm glad you like it," Tempest smiled. " You really out did yourself again, Tempest. " They continued to eat as they made small talk. Luna and Sunset talked about happened earlier today in the cafeteria. "I can't believe they did that you! " Tempest said angrily. " It's ok I deserved it for what I've done to them," Sunset said sadly. " Sunset, " Luna said sternly. "I know. I'm not trying to put myself down. I'm just saying that's it's karma. But thanks to you vice principal, the principal, and Fluttershy I know I have a chance to make things better. " "I'm glad to hear it and Sunset when we're not at school you can just call me Luna." " Thanks ... Luna. " Sunset says happily. " Or you could call her Nightmare moon," Tempest said teasing Luna. " Nightmare Moon? " questioned Sunset. "A story for another time unless you want to tell yours Fizzlepop," Luna said teasing Tempest too. "Fizzlepop?" Sunset questioned again. "Ok ok you win," Tempest said in defeat. "Hahaha!" Sunset laughed at the couple's back and forth. They then joined Sunset in laughing. They finished eating a few minutes later. Tempest suggested they watch a movie together. Then all walked to the large living with two couches, two recliners, a big flat screen tv, and multiple shelves of books and movies. "What you would you like to watch, Sunset?" asked Tempest. "I don't know. I've never really watch any movies before besides the ones we're shown at school." " Your kidding me!" Tempest said shocked. "Nope. I've never played video games before ether." " Man do we have a lot show you. " Tempest said excitingly," Right Luna? " "We sure do." Agreed Luna Tempest picked the live action Beauty and the Beast. Sunset sat in one of the recliners, while Tempest and Luna sat next to each other on one of the couches. Sunset enjoyed the movie and was crying by the end of it. Once the movie was over they all got ready for bed. They take turns taking showers. Sunset went last and took a long enjoyable hot shower. Afterwords she put her stuff away and climbs into bed. Luna and Tempest both stop by to say good night before they went to a sleep. ****************** "No No not again!" Sunset finds herself back in cafeteria but it's shrouded in darkness. From the darkness appears hands pointing at her and the sound of laughter coming from the darkness all around her. "Stop it. Please stop!" Sunset began to cry and hold her head as the laughter gets louder and louder. "No.. No! Stop it! Stop laughing at me!" Sunset said on her knees crying, "Please!" " Look at how pathetic you are now. " said a voice from within the darkness The laughter lowered in volume as a figure walks out of the darkness. The figure had fire like hair, red skin, and the claws of a demon. It was her demon self from the fall formal. "No I'm not," Sunset pleaded. "See what the power of friendship has done to you. Its made you this weak little girl. " The Demon continues to walk closer to her and as Sunset continue crying. "I'm...I'm....not.." When the Demon gets close enough to Sunset, she grabs her by the collar of her shirt and lift her up so there face to face. "You'll be so much happier to going back to the way you were." " No... your wrong ...I don't... I don't what to be that person anymore," Sunset says struggling to get free. The Demon let's go and Sunset falls back down on the floor, "Give it up! They don't care if you want to change. Because you can't change. They know it, I know it, and soon you will realize it too." The Demon joins the chorus of laughter around her as everything is shrouded in flames. "No no no no! Your wrong! Your wrong I can change!" The laughter grows louder agian. Then a light shines out from behind Sunset and a voice calls out from it louder than the laughter. "Sunset! Sunset! Wake up! You have to wake up! Sunset! Please wake up!" Sunset reaches out to the light as the voice wakes her from her nightmare. ************** After Luna and Tempest said goodnight to Sunset, Tempest gave Luna a goodnight kiss and when to her room to sleep. Luna went to her room not to sleep but to play video games. It may be Luna room but it's actually a game room. She got in her gaming chair and powered on her PS4 to play Final Fantasy 14 online with her guild mates. She joined them in a few raids and dungeons before calling it a night around 10:30. She powered off everything and left her room. She quietly joins Tempest in bed to get some sleep. A few hours later she hears moaning coming from Sunsets room and then a shout. "Stop it.Please stop!" Luna hears her and quickly gets up out of bed to check on her. When she arrive in Sunsets room, she find her tossing, turning, moaning, and crying in her sleep uncontrollably. Luna immediately realized she was having a nightmare. "...I'm...I'm....not.." Sunset moaned Luna rushed over to side to try to wake her. "Sunset. Sunset!" There was no response as Sunset continued to moan " ...No... your wrong ...I don't... " Tempest heard the commotion and arrives at the door wondering what going on. "What wrong?" Tears began to fall down Luna's face " She's...she's having a nightmare. " "... no! Your wrong! ...Your wrong .. " Luna tries again to wake her "Sunset! Sunset! Wake up! You have to wake up! Sunset! Please wake up!" This time Sunset finally awakens from her nightmare. When sees Luna she immediately hugs her out of the need for comfort and Luna returns the hug as she wipes the tears from her eyes. A few minutes later Sunset breaks up the hug. " Are you ok? " asked Luna. "Ya. I'll be fine." Sunset says wiping her own tears. " Ok. " Luna than gets up to leave. She turns around to walk out door and feels something grab her hand. She looks to see that Sunset has a hold of her it. "Please stay," asked Sunset pleading. "Sure." She climbs into bed with Sunset. Sunset cuddles up to her and falls back to sleep. Soon Luna dose too. Tempest walks back to her room wiping tears from her eyes, proud of Luna. She grabs her phone and quietly takes a picture of them before going back to sleep herself. She had worried if Luna could handle this but after watching her act like a real parent to Sunset she no long had any doubts. The nightmares did not bother Sunsets anymore that night. > Chapter 9 Chores > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tempest woke up the next morning at the sound of her alarm. She got and noticed Luna wasn't there. She realized she must of stayed with Sunset all night. She went to Sunset room to try to wake them up. She saw them and thought the two of them looked so cute and peaceful together. Tantabus the ferret had joined them some time during the night. She shook there shoulders to try to wake them up. "Luna. Sunset. Time to wake up." They just grunted and moaned at her. Tempest then went down stairs to get a pot of coffee started before she tries again to wake them up. She wasn't sure about Sunset but she knew Luna needed her coffee in the morning. It only took a few minutes to get the coffee maker to start making coffee. She then went upstairs to try again to wake up those two sleepy heads. ************* Sunset began to wake up. She opened her eyes and saw she had cuddled up Luna last night like a small child. Her face turned red with embarrassment when she realized that but she was happy. She got up out of bed and saw Tantabus on the bed too. She began to pet her as Tempest walked in. "So your up. Did you sleep good?" asked Tempest. "If you don't count the nightmare, than yes," Sunset looking at the still sleeping Luna and smiling. "I'm glad cause the two of you were so cutie together I had to take a picture of you two," Tempest said showing her phone with the picture on it, "Its going to be my new background." Sunset felt embarrassed again as she left the room to go to the bathroom. Tempest walked over to the bed to wake up Luna. "Come on Luna wake up." This time Luna woke up. She stretched and sat up on the bed before opening her eyes. When she did, she looked around and realized she was in still Sunset's room and that Sunset wasn't in here. "Morning Tempest. Were is Sunset ?" "She's in the bathroom." "Do you think she got any sleep last night?" Luna a little worried. "You tell me," Tempest said as she showed her the picture on her phone. Like Sunset, Luna was a little embarrassed. She quickly go up and out of Sunset room before she came back from the bathroom and went to her room to get dressed. Tempest following her out and heading to her own room. Luna stopped at her door before entering. "Hey Tempest." "Ya," Said Tempest stopping at her door. "Umm. Can you send me a copy of that picture?" She asked blushing. "I already did." Tempest said smiling. **************** Sunset finished up in the bathroom and returned to her room to get dressed. When she walked in Tantabus began to stir. She follows her to her dresser and hops up on top looking for attention. Sunset smiles at her and pets her, " Did you sleep good too? " When she finished petting her, Tantabus walked out of the room. Sunset then started to get dressed. She decided to wear one of her normal outfits and she would look though Luna's old clothes later when she had more time. Once she was done, she grabbed her bag and went down stairs to get some breakfast. Luna and Tempest were already in the kitchen when Sunset arrived. Luna was drinking a cup of coffee and Tempest was making breakfast. Sunset sat down at the table. "Good morning," Sunset greeted them. "It will be once I have my second cup of coffee," said Luna. " What would like for breakfast Sunset? "asked Tempest. " What are you making? " "Eggs and bacon for Luna and myself. But I can make something else for you." " I'll have two scramble eggs and a slice of toast. " "Comin right up!" She said as she placed a plate of eggs and bacon in front of Luna . Luna finished her first cup of coffee and got up to refill her cup. "Do you what some coffee Sunset, or would you like something else to drink?" "Coffees fine." Luna pored them both a cup of coffee and walk back to the table. "Here you go," Luna says hand Sunset her cup. " Thanks. " A few minutes later, Tempest gave Sunset her scramble eggs and toast. "Do you what any jelly for your toast?" "Strawberry jelly if you have it." "I think we still have some left," Tempest said walking to the fridge. Tempest opened the fridge and got a jar of nearly empty strawberry jelly. She grabs a butter knife and hands them both to Sunset before sitting down to eat her own plate of eggs and bacon. "Do you do all the cooking, Tempest?" asked Sunset while spreading jelly on her toast. "I have to, if you want to eat something edible." Luna who had been quietly eating and drinking her cup of coffee, spoke up "Hey! I'm not that bad. I just have trouble making the more complicated stuff." " Really, I once saw you burn instant noodles, " Tempest said teasingly. "Your not going to let that go are you?" " Nope, "Tempest chuckled. They continued eating breakfast and making conversation. Once they finished, Luna and Sunset grabbed there bags and head for the door. "Wait before you go...," Tempest said before getting something from the fridge and handed it to Sunset. It was a large plastic container filled with leftover roasted vegetables from last night's dinner, " Here take this with you for lunch. " "Are you sure?" "Of course and this way it should be a little easier to avoid the other students." Sunset was so happy at Tempest's kindness that she suddenly hugged her, which surprised Tempest. As Sunset let go of Tempest she said, "Thank you," And then left the room. Luna smile and said, "That was nice of you." "Well I really like having her here. Especially since she makes you happy and I think she likes being here too." "I hope so." Luna began to leave but then stops "Oh before I forget, we'll probably be a little late coming back today too. Nova wants me to bring Sunset by for a follow up exam." "Ok, love you" "Love you, you too " Luna says as she leaves. Tempest watched as they got in Luna car and left the house. Once they were gone she went back to the kitchen to clean up. Then she got her stuff together to go to her job too. ************* Luna and Sunset were quiet on the way to school until Sunset spoke up. "Ummm...thank you for last night," Sunset said blushing and little embarrassed. "I'm just glad I was able to help," Luna said smiling. A few minutes passed. "Do you have a lot of nightmares? " Luna asked worryingly. " No...but that that was the second one I've had since the fall formal." "Can I ask what there about?" "Let's just say my past and the events of the fall formal continue to haunt me," Sunset said sadly. Luna thought for a moment, trying to find the right words to cheer her up. She spoke up once she did, "Then we'll just have to make new memories that outshine the bad ones." Sunset was surprised once again by Luna kindness. Sunset smiled and said, "Thank you." They soon arrived at the school. Luna parked the car and they walk to the main office. At the door to the main office was Fluttershy sitting next to the door. She looked like she was waiting for someone. When Fluttershy saw Sunset, she got up and greeted her. "Good morning Sunset." She said with a smile. " Good morning Fluttershy. Are you waiting for someone? " "Yep" "Who?" " Hehe. You silly. " "Oh," Sunset said surprised. Luna cleared her throat and said, "Well I'll leave you girls be. Sunset make sure you report to Celestia's office when the bell rings." Luna left the to girls and entered the main office. "Soo..why were you waiting for me?" asked Sunset. "Well... I looked for you at the end of the day yesterday. When I didn't find you, I was a little worried. So I thought I'd get to school early, in hopes of finding you. I wanted to make sure you were still ok after what happened yesterday." "Thanks I'm doing better now." "That's good!" Fluttershy said before asking about something else she noticed. "Can I ask you something else?" "Sure. What do you what to know?" " Well I noticed vice principal Luna seems to really care about you. The way she was worried about your injuries after the fall formal, the way she rushed to your side yesterday, and it look like you came to school with her or am I read too much into it? " Sunset wasn't sure if she should tell her or not, but she wanted to. She need to. She decided she was going to tell her every thing and hope Luna wouldn't be to mad about it. "Well what happened...." Sunset said as she told Fluttershy about everything that happened the last few days. She looked happy when she told her about Luna wanting to get guardianship, sad when she told her about her living conditions, and overjoyed that she moved in with Luna. " I'm so happy for you Sunset! " "Thanks but I think we should keep this between us. I don't want anyone to think I'm getting special treatment." " I understand Sunset. I pinky promise I won't tell anyone." Fluttershy said holding out her pinky finger. Sunset returned gesture by wrapping her own pinky finger around hers sealing the promise. Then the bell rings as more and more student make there way in to the school. "Well I better go. I'll see you at lunch," said Fluttershy. " Ok, see you later . " Sunset walk into the office with a smile on her face as she headed to principal Celestia office. The principal greeted her when she walked in and she returned her greeting. Celestia then began to tell Sunset about the chores she will have her do today. She told her she would be helping Mrs.Cheerilee in the Library during first period and help Granny Smith in the cafeteria before and after lunch. Celestia then sent her on her way and Sunset quickly made her way to the Library. Once Sunset got to the library, Mrs. Cheerilee had her putting books away, cleaning tables, and cleaning up dust around the computers. Mrs.Cheerile was keeping a watchful eye on her the whole time. Sunset didn't fault for doing so ether. Any student that came in there, eyed her with suspicion and Sunset tried to not let it bother her. When it was time for her to head to the cafeteria to help Granny Smith, Mrs.Cheerilee thanked Sunset for the help as she left. ************ Principal Celestia was in her office when her phone rang. She picked up her phone and answered it. " Hello. " "Hello Celestia my dear." "Discord, how are you? I hope you have good news." " I'm doing good and I do have good news. I finished getting all of Sunsets information into the system. " "That's great!" Celestia said joyfully, "Luna and Tempest will be so happy to hear it." "I also found information about this world's Sunset. She lives in Europe, though she is originally from here in Canterlot. She is also about 10 years older than your Sunset." " Interesting. Well I'll let Sunset know. Thanks again for the help Discord," Celestia said gratefully. "Anything for you, my dear Celestia," Discord said honesty, " How is she by the way? " Celestia filled him in on what had happened the last few days. "It sounds like things are going pretty good right now." "Let's hope it stays that way. Goodbye Discord." " Goodbye Celestia. " Celestia hung up the phone and got up from her desk and went to tell the good news to her sister. ***************** Sunset arrived in the cafeteria to find Granny Smith and Applejack already there waiting for her. "Hello Mrs.Smith. Hello Applejack," Sunset said greeting them. "Hello Miss. Shimmer," Said Granny Smith greeting her with a smile. "So what chores do have for me to do?" "Well first your going to clean the tables, then restock the plates and trays, and finally take the trash out. Applejack will be here helping you and to keep an eye on you. I can't watch you and prepare lunch for the students at the same time," Granny Smith explained. "Ok I understand." " Well I'll leave you girls to get started. If you need anything I'll be in the kitchen. " she said before heading to the kitchen. They began cleaning the tables. They started from opposite sides of the room and worked they way to the middle. When they were done cleaning each table, Sunset followed Applejack into back room to get the plates and the trays. As they walked into the room, Applejack explained what they had to do. "We have to load up the plates and trays on these carts, " Applejack said pointing to the carts, " and take them into the cafeteria . " "Ok." As they started load up the carts Sunset asked, "Hey Applejack is it alright if I talk to you while we work?" " Sure sugercube, what's on your mind? "I just wanted to say I'm sorry for all the things I've don,e to you. Especially for how I ruined your bake sale last year spreading that rumor that you made them with rotten apples." " Ya that one did hurt us and if you are sorry about it you should apologize to Granny too. She helped make lot of what we were trying to sell at the bake sale." "Oh...," Sunset said feeling worst about what she had done, " I...I didn't know. " Applejack finished loading her cart and said, "Well it's in the past now. So don't worry about it so much." They finished loading the carts and rolled them into the cafeteria. They began to unload them when Sunset spoke again, "There's got to be something I can do to make up for it." Applejack sighed and said, "Well if its bothering you that much, then I have idea that might help." "What is it? I'll do anything to make it up to you," Sunset pleaded. "You can help us with the next bake sale were having in a few weeks at the drama clubs Halloween play. You can help me make and sell the bake goods." "Really that's all?" Sunset questioned. "That's all." "Ok it's a deal then and thank you for letting me make it up to you." "It's no problem." Applejack said as they finished, "Now let's take care of that trash." They got the trash and took it out side to the dumpster and put fresh trash bags in the trash cans. They then went to the kitchen to see if Granny had anything else for them to do. Granny had them help her take the food into the cafeteria. After they finished that Sunset apologized to Granny for the bake sale and she forgive her. She was also happy that Sunset was will to help out at the next bake sale. Then the bell rings signalling the time for lunch. "Sunset." Granny said to her, "After what happened yesterday, I'm going to let you eat lunch in the break room. So you don't have to worry about dealing with the other students." "Thank you Mrs. Smith. But.. Ummm...can Fluttershy come with me. I promised I would eat lunch with her today." "Sure. She's such a nice girl." "I'll let her know." Applejack said, "But some of the other girls might what to eat with you too if thats alright." "As long as Mrs. Smith ok with it." Granny nodded her head signaling that she was ok with it. Sunset then grabbed her bag and followed her to the break room. It was a small room with a round table in the middle. Sunset sat down and pull out the leftover roasted vegetables that Tempest gave her. A few minutes later Fluttershy, Rarity and Pinkie Pie entered the break room. "HI SUNSET!" Pinkie said loudly as she entered the room. Everyone sat down at the table with Sunset. Fluttershy and Rarity sat on each side of Sunset with Pinkie sitting opposite Sunset. "Where's Applejack?" Sunset asked worried that she wasn't as forgiven as she thought. Rarity noticed the worried look on her face, " Don't worry Darling, it not because of you. Applejack decided to stay and keep Rainbow Dash company. She's still holding a grudge against you. " "Oh." "Don't worry about her, she's just being stubborn." said Fluttershy told Sunset. Sunset opened her large container of roasted vegetables. "Oooo that smells good." said Pinkie Pie. " Ya they do. It's a lot too. I don't think I'll be able to eat it all. " Sunset thought for a moment before asking, "Would you girls what some?" " No thank you Darling. What I've got to eat here is enough. " explained Rarity. " Me too! " said Pinkie "Fluttershy?" "No thats ok. I'm fine" "Please Fluttershy, I insist. Especially since you gave me your lunch yesterday," Sunset pleaded. "Ok. But just a little bit." Sunset then spooned some of her roasted vegetables on to Fluttershy's plate. Fluttershy ate it, she loved it, and ask for some more. They ate there lunch and talked until the bell rang. The girls said goodbye to Sunset as they left. Sunset return the near empty container of roasted vegetables back in her bag. She ate more of it that she thought she would. Applejack soon returned to tell her that they had dishes to clean. Sunset followed Applejack to were the sinks were and help clean the dishes. Sunset washed them and Applejack dried them. "Do help out in the cafeteria a lot?" Sunset asked. " Big Mac and I help a lot of the time. Here and on the the farm." "It must be hard to work all the time and still go to school." " it's ok but we can handle it," Applejack stopped drying dishes for a moment "Its been that way since ma and pa passed away," She said sadly. Sunset try to apologize, "Oh. I'm sorry I didn't mean--" " It's ok. You didn't know. " "Well if you need help here or on the farm, I'd like to help if I can." "Thanks Sunset that means a lot to me. " The two girl finished cleaning the dishes and the tables. Granny thanks the girls for there help and then they said there goodbyes. > Chapter 10 The Check Up > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset arrived in the main office at the start of 4th period and she is greeted by Mrs. Inkwell. "Hello Sunset." "Hello Mrs. Inkwell. Is principal Celestia in, she's expecting me." "She's still in a meeting right now," Mrs. Inkwell explained, "But you can wait for her in her office or you can help me out." "What about vice principal Luna?" "She's in the same meeting." "Ok. Then I guess I'll help you out. What are you doing?" "Putting this months school newsletter into envelopes to send out in the mail," She said showing her the newsletters and envelopes. "Ok, how can I help?" Sunset helps Mrs. Inkwell with the newsletters by putting labels with the students addresses on them as well as stamps on the envelopes. She didn't have to worry about the return address because it was already printed on the envelopes. They were almost done when the principals returned. They immediately notice Sunset helping Mrs. Inkwell. " I see you found a way to put her to work," said Luna teasingly. "Ya, she been a big help." "Well Sunset you can come to my office when ever your ready," said Celestia. "I will once I finish helping Mrs. Inkwell." "That's ok Sunset. I can handle the rest." "Are you sure?" "Yes and thank you for your help," Mrs. Inkwell said gratefully, " Go ahead and take a newsletter with you. " "Thanks," Sunset said taking a newsletter, "And I'm glad I could help," Sunset said as she heads to Celestia office She walks in shuts the door behind her. She is surprised to see that Luna is here too. Sunset sits down in the chair in front of Celestia desk. "First before we start our session," Celestia said smiling, "I have some good news for you." "What good news?" "My friend Discord finished getting you into the system." "Really! That was fast. How did he do it." "He is a really good hacker. He douse some freelance hacking as well as some hacking for the government." explained Celestia. "His hacking skills had even help Tempest and myself before," said Luna. "So now it's up to Tempest to get copies of your new birth certificate and social security number. As well as the guardianship papers for you and Luna to sign." said Celestia. "She can do that?" asked Sunset. "Yep! She's a social worker as well as a lawyer who helps kids like you who have nobody else to help them," explained Luna. "Wow." "It will still be a few days before you can sign the papers." said Celestia. "Ok. I can't wait!" "Discord also found some information about this worlds Sunset." "What did he find out?" "That she lives in Europe. So theres a good chance you won't ever meet her." " Ok" "Also the landscapers will be here on Thursday to fix the hole in front of the school and a construction company will be here Monday to start fixing the wall." " I guess I'll have to help out with that too, right? " asked Sunset. Celestia was quick to answer her, " No. They wouldn't allow that. So you don't have to worry about it. " "Why?" Sunset curiously. "Insurance policy as well as it being a commercial job. There very strict about the rules and how things are done." "Ok," said Sunset feeling relief. "Well then I think I'll be heading back to my office to finish some paper work," said Luna as heads for the door. "Wait!" Sunset called out, "before you go I have something to tell you both too." The both look at her a little worried about she was going to say. "I told Fluttershy everything about what has happened since the fall formal," Sunset was worried about how they'll react, "I know I probably should have talked to you first about telling her but I wanted to tell her. No, I needed to her." "It's true we should have talked about this," said Celestia. "But were not mad." Luna explained, "We're happy that you have someone you want to talk to about what happens outside of school." "But for future reference we should talk before telling anyone else." "Ok and I told her not to tell anyone else too." After that, Luna went to her office and Sunset spent the time telling Celestia about her day. She told her about the time she spent with Fluttershy and Applejack. It was just about time for the day to end when Celestia had something else to tell Sunset. "Sunset what would you think about tutoring another student?" asked Celestia . "I don't know. Do you really think I can do it?" Celestia smiled brightly saying, "Sunset your one of the smartest students in this school. So yes I believe you can do it" "Ok sure,when do I start?" "You will meet with the them tomorrow after school." "Ok who is-," was all Sunset managed to say before the bell rings. "Well that's the end of today's session I'll see you tomorrow Sunset." "Ok, see you tomorrow." Sunset says completely forgetting what she was about to say before the bell rang. Sunset left Celestia's office with her stuff and went to Luna office to see if she was ready. When she arrives she finds Luna getting her stuff together too. Luna sees Sunset and says,"You ready to go? " "Yep!" They left the office and made there way to faculty parking lot. They found Fluttershy there waiting for them. Sunset and Fluttershy hugged and said there goodbyes before parting ways. Sunset and Luna got in to the car and left the school. *************** Sunset and Luna arrive at the Crystal Nova Clinic for Sunset's check up. The doctors; Chrysalis and Potion Nova greeted them when they walked in. "Hey Luna. Hey Sunset. How are doing?" Greeted Nova. "Good. " they both said. "Well Sunset are you ready?" asked Chrysalis. "Sure. " Sunset followed Chrysalis to the back room. Sunset had found hard to believe that it had only been a few days since she was last in this room. Sunset sat down in the patient chair as Chrysalis check her over. "So how have you been feeling the last few days?" "A lot better now. " "That's good. How's school been." "Some good things happened and some bad things. Oh and I met your son Pharynx the other day." "Yes, he told me about what happened the other day." "He was really nice and checked my head to make sure I hadn't busted my stitches." "Well I'm glad he was there for you," Chrysalis said smiling, "Now can you lift your shirt up, please?" "Ok."Sunset says as she lifts her shirt up Chrysalis was surprised to see that her back was already healed. Thou there was still scars from were the wounds were. "Hmm." "What's wrong?" "Oh nothing. It appears your all healed up and a lot quicker than a normal wound like this would have heal. Besides that your good to go." "Thanks again," Sunset says getting up. "Wait before you go, how are feeling mentally? Do you still think badly about yourself?" Chrysalis asked in a serious tone. Sunset sits back down, "Yes. I'm still coming to terms with what I've done. But I have friends like Fluttershy now who have forgiven me and friends like your son who don't care about what I've done." Sunset starts to cry, " And Luna and Tempest welcomed me into there home and there already taking care of me like I was there own child. It's more than I could ever ask for. Chrysalis smiles and hands Sunset a tissue from the counter. "Sounds like you are happier now then when you came here a few days ago." "I am." Sunset says as finishes using the tissue and throws it away. Sunset gets up and follows Chrysalis back to the front of the Clinic. ******************** While Sunset was with Chrysalis, Luna updated Nova on everything that has happened the last few days. "Sounds like things are going pretty well." " Yes, but I have to wonder if things are moving too fast. " "What do you mean?" asked Nova. "It hasn't even been a week since the fall formal and she already living with me. And we'll soon have the guardianship papers too," said Luna frustrated, "It feels like everythings going too good too fast. I just keep wonder when the other shoes going drop. " "I think your just over thinking things." "Shes also been opening up more to Celestia and her friend Fluttershy than she is with me. I worry I'm not really helping her at all." "You can't possibly believe that," Nova said making her points clear and precise, "She may not have to gone to you for emotional support yet, but you been there to support her physically. It was you brought her to us when she was injured, you who welcomed her into your home, and you who comforted her after she had a nightmare. So don't sell yourself short." "Your right," Luna said felling better, "Thanks Nova I needed that." "And if your still worried about it, you should tell Sunset how you feel. " Chrysalis and Sunset returned. "So how is she?" asked Luna. "Everythings good. She's all healed up. But the wounds left permanent scars on her back," Chrysalis reported. "Really? She's healed already?" asked Nova. "Yep and I don't have the slightest idea how she healed so fast." "Actually," Sunset says as everyone turns to look at her, " I think I might know the reason. " "What?" They asked. "Magic," Sunset said plain and simple. "But I thought Twilight took all the magic with her when she left with her crown," said Luna. "Well I was a unicorn in my world and I possessed Twilight's crown for a short time, so maybe there was still some residual magic in me that helped me recover," Sunset explained. "Well I guess makes since," said Nova. " In any case your all better now and that's what matters most right now," Chrysalis said. Sunset and Luna thank them again, said there goodbyes and went on home. ******************** Sunset returned to her room after filling her stomach up with another great meal made by Tempest. She had just finished talking a shower and was getting ready for bed, when Tempest stopped by her room. "Hey Sunset can you come to my room for a few minutes?" "Sure." Sunset says before following Tempest to her room across the room. Tempests room was also the master bedroom. She had large king size bed with purple sheets. A large dresser on one side of the room near a walk in closet. "Wow," Sunset said amazed, "How did you talk Luna into giving you the biggest bedroom?" " I have my ways, " Tempest said winking. Sunset thought for a moment before realizing what she meant. "Ooh." "Plus she usual sleeps in here with me anyways," Tempest explained, "Now on come over here." Tempest had Sunset follow her to the dresser. On top of the dresser was a cage and in the cage was a hedgehog. Tempest opened up the cage and picked up the hedgehog. "Sunset, I'd like to introduce you to Grubber my pet hedgehog," Tempest said holding him in the palms of her hands. He took one look at Sunset and immediately curled up in to a ball. Sunset had look of dejection at the hedgehogs reaction to her, so Tempest trys to reassure her. "Don't worry he's just shy," Tempest explained, "It will take a lot more time for him to get use to you than it did for Tantabus." "Oh ok." "Would you like to try holding him?" "Sure." "Pick up that towel next to his cage. It has his scent on it. You will need it to hold him until he gets use to you." "Ok," Sunset says as she follows her instructions. Once Sunset was ready, Tempest placed Grubber in Sunset towel cover hands. Once there he uncurled himself and start to smell the towel. A smile came across Sunsets face as she watches him. "He's kind of cute." "Well I'm glad you like him." Tempest says as she takes him and puts him back in his cage. "It will be good for you to get acquainted Grubber and Tantabus," said Luna, who was watching the whole time from the door way, "We may need you to take care of them from time to time, so we will show you how to feed them later." Sunset turned to see Luna in the door way with a big smile on her face. "Ok." "Now it time for you to go on to bed," said Luna. "Ok. Goodnight," Sunset said as gave them both a hug before she returned to her room for the night. **************** Sunset woke up the next morning well rested and she was up before Luna again, so Tempest showed Sunset how to use the coffee maker before they both went back up stairs to try and wake up Luna. Luna was giving them a hard time about waking up. Tempest showed Sunset what to do when she's like this. She gets a squirt bottle filled with water and starts to spray Luna in the face with it. After a few squirts she finally gets up, looking angry. Sunset was worried if they had made her mad but Tempest trys to reassures her that was not the case. "She's like this most mourning," Tempest explained, "She not really a mourning person. She's more of a night owl. So she'll be back to her usual self after she has her coffee. They all went down stairs and had breakfast. Once Luna had a couple cups of she finally noticed Sunsets downed expression. "Sunset what's wrong?" "You looked so mad when we woke you up this morning." " I'm sorry Sunset, " Luna said feeling bad, "I'm not mad. I'm just grumpy in the morning. Thats my fault for not warning you ahead of time." " I tried to tell her that. " replied Tempest. "I know you did, but I was still worried anyways. The last thing I want to do is make you mad after all the kindness you've shown me." "Well I promise you I'm not mad. Ok" "Ok." Sunset said feeling a little better ******************** Sunset was spending the morning before school with Fluttershy agian. Sunset was telling her about Tantabus and Grubber. "Awww, they sound so adorable!" Fluttershy said gleefully, "I love all kinds animals." "Have you ever had a ferret or hedgehog before?" asked Sunset. "No. But the animal shelter has a few," Fluttershy said before she suddenly got an idea, "Sunset why don't you come help me out at the animal shelter sometime. They can probably give you some tips and you can get use to a lot different types of animals." " I don't know? Do you really think that's necessary? " "Maybe not now. But you might want a pet of your own one day. Plus the girls and I all have different pets," Fluttershy explained. "Really? Like what?" "Well you already know I have a pet rabbit named Angel," Fluttershy said, as she opens her backpack so that Angel can pop his head out, "Applejack has a dog named Winona, Rarity has cat named Opalescence, Rainbow Dash has a turtle named Tank, and Pinkie Pie has stuffed alligator named Gummy." "Wow that's a --wait minute Pinkie has a stuff alligator as a pet?" " Yep, I sure do! " said Pinkie standing next to Sunset. Sunset jumped at the sound of Pinkie's voice and her sudden appearance seemingly out of nowhere. "Morning Pinkie." said Fluttershy as if Pinkie's sudden appearance was a normal thing. "Morning Fluttershy! Morning Sunset!" greeted Pinkie, "Fluttershy's right helping out at the animal shelter is fun. Thou I'm not allowed to anymore." "Why's that?" asked Sunset. "She thought it would be fun to let all the animals out at the same time. It was pure chaos," explained Fluttershy, " It took weeks to get everything back to normal again. " "Why did you let them all out? " "Well I wanted to throw them all a birthday party. If I had try to give them each a separate party, it would have taken forever. So tried to give them all one at the same time. Which did not go over so well." "And the stuffed alligator?" "Later that same year, I was begging my parents for a pet alligator. But both my parents and Santa said I'd have to settle for a stuffed alligator for a pet after what happened at the animal shelter. Well that and you probably can't legally have an alligator as a pet," Pinkie explained joyfully , "And I've had him ever since!" "So what are you doing here aren't you usually with the other girls in the morning?" Sunset asked changing the subject. "I was dropping by to let the principals know that the Halloween decorations will be delivered on Friday," Pinkie said, " I can't wait to start putting them up! " Then the bell rings and Fluttershy heads to class. Sunset and Pinkie walk into Celestia office. Pinkie tells Celestia about the decorations and then heads off to class too. Celestia sends Sunset to help Mrs. Chreeliee and Granny Smith again today. Sunset helped Mrs. Chreeilee with changing what books were on display and putting out new magazines on the shelf. After that she helped Granny Smith the same way she did yesterday. But instead of Applejack helping out, it was her big brother Big Macintosh. He seemed like he was being cautious of her at first and they didn't talk much while they worked but by the end of it, he seemed like he was more friendlier to her. ************** Sunset was with Celestia during fourth period again. Sunset was telling her about what happened this morning. "Ahh. So you met Grumby Luna this morning," said Celestia. "Ya, it's not something I was expecting," Sunset explained, "She always so kind and caring that I was shock to see her like that." "Well like Tempest told you she always been that way, " Celestia explained, "It will take so getting use to it thou. It probably won't be the only time she surprise you." "Like what?" You'll have to find out for yourself, " Celestia teased. Before Sunset could try to pry anymore information out of her, the bell rings. Celestia then tells Sunset about the tutoring session. She tells her what room she is meet the student in, as well as what subjects they need help with. She also tells her the Mrs. Williams will be there too, in case there are any problems. On the way to the tutoring session, She realizes Celestia still never told her who she was tutoring. A few minutes later, she arrives at the classroom for the tutoring session and opens the door. Sunset is surprised to discover who she is tutoring. "What are you doing here?" asked a rainbow haired girl angrily. > Chapter 11 Sushi and Gaming > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- *****The day before****** Rainbow dash was surprised to be called to the office during fourth period. She was told go to one of the conference rooms near the teachers lounge. She wondered was this was about. She thought maybe it was because she was so awesome that they needed her to tone it down about twenty percent. When she arrived she was surprised to find principal Celestia, vice principal Luna, coach Ironhead, and her parents Bow Hothoof and Windy Whistles sitting around a long rectangle table in the middle of the room. "Mom? Dad? Coach? Whats going on?" Rainbow Dash asked confused. "Please have a seat," Celestia said, "How are you doing Rainbow Dash?" "Ok I guess," Rainbow said as she sitting down at the table. "Are you sure?" Luna asks. "Ya. Why do you ask?" "Because your grades tell a different story." Bow Hothoof said. "We've been told that you are failing most of your classes sweetie and worried." Windy Whistles said. "I'm fine. I've just been slacking off a little to much." " Well you to need to take you studies more seriously." said coach Ironhead, "You do know what happens when you can't keep your grades up. I'll have to kick off the soccer and track teams." "And you won't able to participate in any school events like the music showcase next month." Luna added "Please don't! The team needs me!" "Don't worry were not here today to kick you off the team," Celestia explained, " We are here to offer you a solution. " "What is it? I'll do anything." "We're giving you till the end of the month to get grades back up and were assigning another student to tutor you after school." "You wont be allowed to attend practice till your grades are better but you'll still be play in games," Ironhead explained. "Who is the tutor going to be?" asked Windy Whistles. "I have just the student in mind, but I'll have to speak with them first but if all goes well tutoring will start tomorrow." "Douse that sound fair Rainbow Dash?" asked Luna. "I guess I don't have much choice." Rainbow said sadly. "And by the way Rainbow you are grounded until your grades get better." Bow Hothoof. "Aww man." ***************** "What are you doing here?" asked Rainbow Dash angrily when Sunset walked into the room. "She's here tutor you or have you already forgotten?" Mrs Williams said from the teachers desk in the back of the room. "But why her of all people!" "Because she's one of the smartest students in this school and obviously Celestia trusts her to do it." " Well I don't trust her she'll probably give me all the wrong answer to make sure I fail. " "Rainbow, why would I do that. I would never do that to you," Sunset said. "Ya like you would never turn into a demon and try to take over the school." Sunset felt the sting in Rainbow's words, "Do you really believe I'd do that?" "Ya and I don't believe this goody two shoes act of yours ether. You can't fool me!" "That's enough Rainbow dash!" Mrs. Williams said, "That's not the issue here!" "It is the issue! She's the reason my and I were broken up for the last two and half years! She's the reason why Fluttershy and I aren't still together!" Sunset realized what Rainbow was saying but she still had to confirm her fears, " Wait. Rainbow are you saying you two were dating? " "Ya And it's all your fault." "I'm sorry i-i didn't know." "Ya right." Rainbow picks up her bag, "Tell principal Celestia to get a better tutor. I'm out of here!" Rainbow says as she shoves Sunset out of the way, on her way out of the room. "Rainbow get back here!" Mrs. Williams yelled at Rainbow. "Let her go." Sunset said sitting down at the nearest desk. Sunset could still feel the hate in Rainbow words even after she was gone. She tried her hardest not to cry. "Well I better let principal Celestia what happened." Mrs. Williams said as she picks up the phone on the desk to call the principal. "Wait!" Sunset called out before mrs. Williams could dial the phone, "Can you call Vice principal Luna instead and tell her that I need her here. Please?" "Sure not a problem." Sunset lad her head in her arms on the desk no longer able to hold the tears back. ********************* Luna was in her office doing some paperwork, when her office phone rings and she answers it. "Hello." "Vice principal Luna, this is Mrs Williams." Oh no Luna thought, "Did something happen?" She asked worryingly. "Ya and Sunset's pretty upset about it. She asked for you specificity." "Ok. I'll be there in a few minutes." Luna quickly left her office and made her way to Sunset. She worried the whole way there. Wondering what Rainbow did to her. When Luna walked into the room, She found Sunset with head down in her arms on the desk and Mrs. Williams trying to comfort her. When Sunset heard someone walk into the room, she lifts her head up to see who it is. When she sees that its Luna, she immediately gets up and runs to her and hugs her like a small child. Mrs. Williams sees this and decides to give them some space. "Well I'll give you two some privacy." "Mrs Williams," Luna calls to her before she leaves, "Do you mind stopping by my sister's office and letting her know what happened?" "Sure." "And Mrs. Williams, Thank you." "No problem," she said walking out of the room. Luna stayed there holding Sunset for a few minutes before saying, "Sunset let's sit down so you can tell me what happened." Luna walks Sunset back to the desk she was sitting at and sits in the one next to her. Luna pulls her desk closer to Sunset, so Sunset could lay her head on her shoulder Luna wraps her arm around Sunset and runs her arm up and down her arm to calm her, "Tell me what happened." "All I did was walk in the room," Sunset explained, "Just the sight of me angered her. She didn't like the idea of me tutoring her." "I was worried something like this might happen." "The girls had told me that Rainbow was holding grudge against me and now I know why." "Wasn't because you broke up there friendship?" "Not just that. Apparently Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were dating at the time too." "Oooh! No wonder she was holding a grudge against you." "She even thru the fall formal in my face and said she didn't believe I could change before storming out of the room." "You know she's wrong, right." "I know but it still hurts to hear it." It dose, Luna thought to her self as an old memory floods her mind. What have done Luna! You scratched that poor boy face! All I did was try to defend myself! Him and his friend-- I don't believe you Luna. This it just another one of you attempts to get attention. Daddy please, you have to believe me! Enough Luna your nothing but trouble! "Luna." Sunset's voice brought her back to reality. She looks at Sunset and sees the worried look on her face. "Luna, are you ok? Your crying." "Yes. I'm fine." Luna said wiping way her tears, "It's was just an bad memory." She turns to Sunset, "Sunset, I'm going to be straight with you. It's going to be hard to get some people to believe in you. Even when there family. And at time it's going to hurt but all we can do is keep moving forward and we can't let them hold us back. Ok? "Ok." "And Sunset, I promise you here and now that I'll always believe in you." Sunset hugs Luna, " Thanks. " "Now, why don't we get out of here sweetie." Sunset and Luna return to the main office to find Celestia waiting for them. She has them follow her to her office and they all take a seat at Celestia desk. "Sunset, I want to apologize to you." Celestia said frankly. "For what?" "For trying to force things with you and Rainbow Dash and not tell you about ahead time. I realized what I did was just like the princess. "But your nothing like the princess." Celestia hand balls up into a fist on her desk, " But I am! I had this grandiose plan to help you make up for the things done. But all I did was force you into situations without telling you anything just like how the princess forced you to make friends without explaining why you should. " A short quiet moment passed before Celestia said, "I'm sorry. I'll find someone else to tutor Rainbow." Sunset places her hand on Celestia still clenched fist, "That's the thing thou even after all that I still what to tutor her." "What?" Luna and Celestia said shocked. "Are you sure she could hurt you again?" asked Celestia. "I know," Sunset said sincerely, "But you all where so kind enough to give me a second chance that I want to give her one too. I want the chance to show her I've changed and I can't do that if I run away now. Right, Luna. "Right." said Luna happy that Sunset took her words to heart. Celestia smiled as she saw the strong bond the two had formed in such a short time. "Ok, then the tutoring sessions will resume tomorrow but Rainbow will still have to be punished for walking out on you. Tomorrow I'll start being more upfront about my plans to help you." "You don't have to do that. I trust you, Celestia." said Sunset. "And that's exactly why I want to." Sunset and Luna said there goodbyes and left Celestia office and walked into Luna office to get her stuff. Once they were in her office Luna suddenly hugs Sunset, "I'm so proud of you." "Thanks." "Why don't we go out to night. My treat." "Sure, but what about Tempest?" "Don't worry. I'm going to call and see if she wants to join us." Luna pulls out her phone and calls Tempest. It rings for a moment before Tempest answers. "Hey babe! What's going on? I was just about to call you." "Well I decided to take Sunset out tonight and we was wondering if you wanted to join us." "Wish I could but I'm having some problem with case right now." Tempest explained, "I was getting ready to call and tell you I'll be late coming home. So your own for dinner tonight." " Too bad. Sunset really what you to join us. " "How is she? How did the tutoring go?" "Not great. It's part of the reason I wanted to take her out tonight." " Well tell Sunset I hope she has good time and I'm sorry I can't join y'all. Love you! " "Love you too!" Luna hangs up her phone and puts it back in her pocket. "So is she coming?" asked Sunset. "No. She's wrapped up in a case right now. So it will just be us tonight." "Is there any place in particular you want to go?" Luna said as they exited the office. "No not really." Luna thought for a moment before saying, "I know this great sushi restaurant at the mall we can go to." "Ok. I've never had sushi before." "I think your going to like it." *************** They arrived at the mall and Sunset was surprised at the size of the place. "Wow its so big!" "Sunset have you never been to the mall before?" "No. I never bothered going anywhere outside of school or home," Sunset said sadly . "Well one day, when we have more time I'll have to take you around the different stores and restaurants in the mall." "I'd like that." Sunset followed Luna through the mall, looking around at all the store along the way until they got to sushi restaurant. They walked in and was seated at a booth. They looked at there menus until there waitress arrived. She was an older lady wearing a traditional kimono with a flower pattern and apron with a picture of fish on it. "Hello," the waitress greeted, "I'm Emiko and I'll be your waiter tonight what would you like?" 'I'll have the fatty tuna sushi plate and sweet tea to drink. " "And how about your daughter?" Sunset blushed at being called Luna daughter, "I'll have the vegetarian sushi plate and sweet tea to drink as well." The waitress left with there order and came back a few minutes later with there drinks. It was quiet for a little bit before Luna said "You know Sunset, if there's anything else you've never done before and you what to try doing it. All you have to do is ask." "Well I've always wanted to drive a motorcycle." "Well that can be arranged since will have your papers soon." "Do you really mean it?" Sunset asked excitingly. Of course. Tempest and I can teach you." "You can drive motorcycle?" Sunset asked surprised. "Tempest taught me how, a few years ago," Luna explained, "But if you want your own motorcycle you'll have to help make payments on it so that means you'll need to get a job." Luna said as the waitress arrived with there food. "A job huh." "Well if your look for a job, were always looking for help here" the waitress Emiko offered. "Thanks for the offer. I'll think about it." The waitress left and they both began to eat there sushi. They both enjoyed the meal and they left a generous tip. "So did you enjoy dinner?" Luna asked as they left the restruant. "Ya. It was really good." "Well I'm glad you liked it." Luna and Sunset walk back to the car and went home. ************* When Sunset and Luna got home Luna told her when she was ready come to her room. She wanted to show her something Sunset got cleaned up and put on her pajamas before going to Luna room. Luna room had a computer, a big flat screen tv, and multiple game systems. There were multiple shelves filled with games and books. There was a couch and a couple of gaming chairs "Welcome to my gaming room!" announced Luna, "So what do you thing?" "Not what I was expecting at all." Sunset said shocked, "This must be what Celestia meant." "About what?" "That you would keep surprising me every time I learn something new about you." "Well this is the reason I'm grumpy most mornings I tend to stay up late playing video games online." Luna explained, "So do you want to play?" " Sure, but I wouldn't know we're to start. " "I'll will start you off with some easy games for now." Luna starts her off with some classic Nintendo games like super Mario brothers, donkey kong, Mario kart, super smash bros., and Mario party. After losing for a while Sunset starts to get the hang of things. They were having great time playing games together. Tempest arrives to find them in the middle of a race "I'm going win!" Sunset said excitingly. "I don't think so!" Luna says as she gets the blue tortoise shell and uses it on Sunset knock her out long enough for her to win the race. "Aww man! I was so close." " Sounds like y'all are having fun in here. " "Yep." Sunset said ready to start another round. "She doing pretty good and she's a quick learner." "Why don't you join us Tempest?" Sunset asked. "Not tonight. I'm tired so I'm going on to bed. Don't stay up to late." "Ok." they both said. They played for few more hours before Luna decided they should call it a night. "Alright I think that enough games for tonight," Luna says turning the game system off, "Time for bed." Luna turns to face Sunset and notice she was still sitting on the couch. Sunset had a worried look on her face, so Luna sits on the couch next to her. "Is something wrong Sunset?" Luna asked. "Can I sleep with you tonight. I'm don't what to be alone tonight." "Why's that?" "I'm scared." Sunset admitted, "I'm scared she will appear in my dreams again and turn them into nightmares." "Who?" "The demon version of me." "Why do you think that will happen?" "Cause she already has appeared in my dreams twice now." Sunset explained, "In the nightmare I had after the fall formal and the nightmare I had after what happened in the cafeteria the other day." "And your worried she'll appear again after what happened with Rainbow." "Ya." Sunset said sadly, "I'm sorry if that makes me seem childish." "No thats perfectly fine. You may be a teenager but your still a child at heart. It's ok to be afraid. Even adult get scared at times." "Have you been afraid? " "Yes plenty of times when I was younger and I was sacred fair recently too." "What was it that sacred you?" "When I saw injuries I was scared you weren't going to make it. I was scared that you were going to reject me when offered to help you. I was scared every time hear something bad has happened to you since the fall formal. " " I'm sorry to worry you so much. " Luna hugs Sunset, "You have nothing to apologize for sweetie. I'll always worry about you. Even when your all grow up and out on your own." Sunset smiled. She was happy to have someone who cared so much. "Now why don't we go to bed." Luna and Sunset went to Sunset's room and got into the Sunset's bed. A half hour later, Sunset spoke up. "Luna, I can't fall asleep." "Hmm. I know lullaby that my mom use to sing Celestia and I when we're kids. Or are you too grow up for that." "No. I'd like to hear it. Luna begans to sing softly. " You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, You make me happy when skies are grey. You’ll never know, dear, how much I love you, Please don't take my sunshine away. The other night, dear, as I lay sleeping, I dreamt I held you in my arms. When I awoke, dear, I was mistaken, So I hung my head, and I cried. You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, You make me happy when skies are grey. You’ll never know, dear, how much I love you, Please don't take my sunshine away. I'll always love you and make you happy, If you will only say the same. But if you leave me to love another, You'll regret it all one day. You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, You make me happy when skies are grey. You’ll never know, dear, how much I love you, Please don't take my sunshine away. Please don't take my sunshine away. " Sunset was asleep before Luna finished the lullaby. Luna a fell asleep not long after she finished too. Luna awoke during the night to Sunset moaning and to her movering around in bed. Luna held her close and whispered in her ear, "Its ok Sunset. I'm right here." She repeated it a few before Sunset began to sleep calmly again. Sunset sleep'ed peacefully the rest of the night. ************* The next day Sunset waited in Celestia office as she called Rainbow Dash to her office to joined them. "So you ratted me out." Rainbow said when she walked into the office and saw Sunset. "No she didn't need to. Mrs Williams told me what happened,"Celestia explained, "And I must say I'm very disappointed in you Rainbow dash. I've never known you to treat another student the way to treated Sunset. "But she-" "No matter what she's did in the past you still didn't need to treat her the way you did." Celestia said interrupting her, "And your lucky she's still will to tutor you after what you said to her." "Whatever." " So as punishment for what you did to Sunset and walking out on the agreed upon tutoring, you will be in detention today and tomorrow. " Celestia lectured, "Sunset will be tutoring you during today's detention." When Celestia finished lecturing Rainbow dash, She sent her and Sunset to detention. As Sunset and Rainbow dash are walking thought the hall on the way to the detention room, they passed some female students on the way. One of them knock Sunset binders out of her hands and another kicked them across the hall. This cause them to bust open scattering papers all over the floor. The students who did it laughed as they walked away. Sunset got down on the floor to try to get all her papers together. She looked up and saw Rainbow Dash continuing to walk down the hall as if nothing happened. A few minutes later Sunset was still try to get her stuff together, when someone started to help her. She looks up and is surprised to see that Rainbow Dash came back to help her. Rainbow Dash realized Sunset was looking at her and said "Look, I'm not helping you because I forgive or as an apology for what I said. Cause it's not. I just don't what get in to any more trouble than I already am. Ok?" "That's fine," Sunset said thankfully, "Thanks, Rainbow Dash." They finished picking up Sunsets thangs and preceded down the hall to detention > Chapter 12 Tutoring > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset thought the Study session with Rainbow Dash was going pretty well, even with Rainbow begrudgingly going along with it. They worked in a corner of the detention room away from the other students. They started off with geometry and chemistry. Sunset took her time to carefully explaining everything so Rainbow could understand it. And over time Rainbow slowly got the hang of it. Sunset looked up at the clock and said "Well that's all for now. I've got to go help Granny Smith in the cafeteria again today. So we'll continue this after lunch." "Sure," Rainbow said begrudgingly. "Will you be joining us at lunch today?" asked Sunset. Rainbow just shrugged her shoulders in response. "Ok, well I'll see you later," Sunset said before leaving. Rainbow just sat at her desk and continued studying alone till lunch. ************ Sunset was in the break room in the back of the cafeteria. As she began to eat her lunch she was surprised to see Flash Sentry walk in with his guitar strapped to his back and carry his lunch tray. "Flash? What are you doing here?" Sunset asked surprised. "I was wondering how you were doing," Flash explained as he say down at the table, " I asked Rarity this morning and she suggested I join y'all for lunch so I could ask you myself. I hope that ok? " "No. Of course not. Where is everyone? " Well I saw Applejack eating lunch with Rainbow Dash. Rarity told me Pinkie Pie made a mess of the science lab again and Fluttershy volunteer to help her clean it up. Rarity will be joining us soon she was still in line to get her lunch. " "Oh. Ok." It was quiet for a minute before Flash spoke again, "So how are you doing?" He asked concerned. "A lot better than I have been in a long time, thanks to the girls and the principals. Thou it can be hard to handle all the hate everyone has for me." " Ya, I'm sure it's not easy but at least you don't have to go through it all alone and I want you to know that I'm here for you to. " "I'm actually surprised by that and that your here." " Why's that? " Flash asked curiously. "I lead you along when I never had any real romantic feels for you or ever intended to. I just used you to increase my popularity and power over the student body, like shiny trophy I wanted to show off," Sunset explained, "I even tried to kill the girl you liked and brainwash you." " I know and even after all that, I still care about you. Maybe not in the same way as I did before but I'm glad you've changed and I want to help you any way i can." Flash said sincerely. "And I hope we can still be friends." "Yes we can and thanks Flash. I appreciate that. Then Rarity walks in and joins them at the table. " Sorry to keep you waiting, Darling. The lunch line atrocious. The three of the made small talk for a while till Flash had to leave them to talk to his band about a new song he was working on. After Flash left Sunset told Rarity about want had happened with Rainbow. "I can't believe she did that. We all agreed that it was best not to say anything to you about it." Rarity said in disbelief. "So y'all were hiding it from me." Sunset said sadly. "No Darling don't take it the wrong way. We knew you were already feeling bad about the things you did. We didn't what to add to it." Rarity explained, "Honesty Applejack and I didn't find out about it till a few days ago. They kept it secret from us too." "Really?" Sunset asked surprised, "Why would they keep it secret from there friends?" "I don't know. but were not going to hold it against them." " I wonder how many other things I caused that I don't know about. " Sunset wondered. "Well Darling, it's best not to dwell on the things you don't know about. It will only slow you down as you walk the path to making yourself better." " Thanks Rarity. " Sunset said sincerely. "And speaking of making things. I don't know if you know this yet, but I'm making the costumes for the Halloween play." " Yay, I know. " Sunset said remembering the flyer she got from Mrs. Inkwell. "Well I was wondering if I could get your help with coming up with the designs." Sunset was surprised, "You really want my help?" "Yes for two reasons," Rarity explained, " One, I remembered Pinkie telling me how great an artist you are." " I don't think my arts all that great. " Sunset said modestly, "What's the other reason?" "I don't know if you have been told this yet or not, but vice principal Luna had I asked me if I'd be willing to let you help me make the costumes and I said yes." " No I didn't know that. Principal Celestia has told me everything she has planned for me to do yet. " "Well I'm not surprised since I don't start making the costumes till next week. I have to get the designs approved before I can even start making them," Rarity explained, "But I figured if your going to help me make the costumes than you should help me with the designs too." " Are you sure? I don't know how much help I'll be. " " Don't sell yourself short. "Rarity said encouragingly, "Every little bit counts. " "Then I'll do my best," Sunset said happily, "When do you want to start?" "How about Saturday morning around ten o'clock." "Sounds good to me. As long as Luna ok with it." " Do you mean vice principal Luna? "Rarity asked, "Why do you need her permission?" "It's not important." Sunset said trying to dodging the question . Rarity was going inquiry more about it but the bell rang signing the end of lunch. So Rarity decided not to worry about it right now and gave Sunset her address before saying goodbye to her. ******************* Sunset returned to detention to continue tutoring Rainbow Dash. This time they worked on English and world history. Rainbow was better in these two subjects than she was with the other two. So she she didn't have to help her as much as before. Which was good in the case of history. Sunset had an easy time with most of the other subjects because they were pretty much the same in Equestria. Except for a few things here and there. But learning the history of another world filled with war and strife was I bit harder for her. Even thou she is one of the smartest students in the school she still had to study extra hard for that subject. Sunset continued to tutor Rainbow till the last hour of the day. "That's all for today," Sunset said while gathering her things, " I'll see you later." After Sunset leaves, someone walks over to Rainbows desk in the corner of the room. "I can't believe your letting her boss you around like that again." "What do you want Lightning Dust?" Rainbow asks. Lightning Dust sits down in the seat that Sunset was sitting in a moment ago. "First you let her break you, your friends, and your girlfriend up. Then it takes someone from another world to get you to finally stand up to her and take down that demon bitch. Only for you to let her boss you around again. " It's not like that. She's just tutoring me, " Rainbow explained, "Besides principal Celestia did give me much choice in the matter." " I'm just say, how much longer before she's back to being who she really is." Lightning Dust's cronies; Rolling Thunder and Short Fuse, walk over and join the conversation. "Someone should really sick it to her," Rolling Thunder suggested, " before she takes over again. " "Ya," Short Fuse agreed, " She needs to pay for what she's done. " "Whatever," Rainbow said, " I don't really care. " The bell rings and Rainbow gets up to leave. Rainbow didn't care if they were planning something. She didn't want to have anything to do with ether side. At least that's what she told herself. But she would eventually come to regret that choice. > Chapter 13 making plans > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset was in Celestia's office when Celestia told her about some of the other plans she had for her. "I'm going to have you help out Pinkie Pie and her decorating committee with decorating the school for Halloween next week," Celestia explained. "Ok. Sounds fun." "As well as helping Rarity with making the costumes for the Halloween play once she gets her designs approved," Celestia Added. " Rarity already told me about it." "She did?" Celestia asked surprised. "Ya, She told me earlier today during lunch," Sunset explained, " She told me she wanted my help designing the costumes as well as making them. " "Well that's good," Celestia smiled happily, "There's is one other thing I have planned too, but we'll get to that in a little bit. Right now I want to hear about your day. " Sunset tells Celestia about the girls who knocked her stuff out of her hands this morning after she left Celestia's office. Celestia asked her she knew who did it and Sunset tells her no. Then Sunset told her that Rainbow Dash helped her pick her stuff up and about their tutoring session. She also tells her about how she made amends Flash Sentry as well. Not long after Sunset finishes telling Celestia everything, theres a knock at the door. "Come in!" Celestia calls out. The door opens and Fluttershy walks in. "Fluttershy, what are you doing here?" Sunset asked. "Oh, I'm here speak with principal Celestia." replied Fluttershy. "Oh ok. Then let me get-" "No you can stay Sunset." "Really?" "Yes. You can begin when your ready Fluttershy." "Umm ok. As we were discussing before, the animal shelter wants to put together a adopt-a-pet event and I was hoping to get the school help sponsor it," Fluttershy explained, "We hope to find new home for the animals." "What if someone wants to help, but can't adopt?" Celestia asked. "The shelter also excepts donations for those who still want to help. Donations go towards feeding and shelter the animals." "Where were you planing on holding this event? " "We haven't decided on a location yet." " How about here at the school on a Saturday two weeks from now? Will that be enough time? " Fluttershy was surprised and happy, "I think that will work but I better check with Dr. Fauna just in case." Once Fluttershy leaves the room to call Dr. Fauna, Celestia tells Sunset, "Sunset, I want you to help Fluttershy out with this event." "You do?" Sunset asked surprised . "Yes, I think it would be a great experience for you." Soon Fluttershy returns with news that Dr. Fauna is on board with the idea. Celestia then tells Fluttershy that Sunset will be helping her. "That's great!" Fluttershy said excitingly, "I was just telling Sunset the other day that she should come help out at the animal shelter." "Are you sure?" Sunset asked. "Of course, Why don't you come with me to the animal shelter tomorrow after school. You'll be able to meet Dr. Fauna and all the different types of animals we have at the shelter." " Ok, I'll just have to check if it's ok with Luna. " They then talked about the different types of animals that they would have and where they should hold it in the school. Then the bell rings signalling the end of the day. Fluttershy went back to her class to get her stuff and Sunset went to Luna's office after they said there good to each other and principal Celestia. *************** On the drive home Sunset tells Luna about her day. "Sounds like the tutoring session went pretty well. " said Luna. "Ya but I know she still happy about it." "Well it was only the first session, I'm she'll come around eventually." " I hope so too," replied Sunset, "I was able to make amends with Flash Sentry. We're going to start over as friends." " That's good. " "And umm Rarity wants me to come over Saturday to help her design the costumes for the Halloween play. So I wondering if thats ok?" "Of course." Luna says a little surprised but happy that Sunset was already treating her like her guardian. "Celestia is letting Fluttershy put together an adopt a pet event at the school in a two weeks and I'm going to be helping her. So Fluttershy also want me to help her out at the animal shelter tomorrow after school to get to know the animals." "Sounds like fun. " "Ya, I'm actually looking forward to hanging out with them outside of school," Sunset said happily. Luna smiled while feeling happy that Sunset was happy. Luna then told her that the landscapers finished fixing the schools front yard by filling I'm the hole and placing fresh grass on top. When they arrived home, they were greeted by the smell of a home cooked meal. Tempest was cooking a broccoli and cheese casserole. Sunset was looking forward to it. She then went up stairs to drop her stuff off. When she walks into her room, She finds Tantabus laying on her bed. When Tantabus sees her she jumps off her bed runs over to Sunset. Sunset puts her bag down before picking her up. Tantabus then climbs up on to her shoulders. Sunset pets her on the head before heading back down stairs. When she returns down stairs, She finds Luna relaxing in a chair reading a book. Luna looks up from her book when Sunset walks in and sees Tantabus on her sholders. "Well aren't you something?" Luna says to Tantabus. Tantabus moves its head up and down as if to says she was agreeing with her. "I found her waiting for me in my room again." Sunset said as she walks closer to Luna. Tantabus then jumps down to lay in Luna's lap. "Looks like she's still mommas girl thou." "She sure is." Luna says as she pets Tantabus. A few minutes later, Tempest calls out "Dinners ready!" Luna and Sunset join Tempest in the kitchen. Tempest had already filled there plates with broccoli and cheese casserole, bread rolls and mashed potatoes. They all say down at the table, and began to eat and talk about there day. Tempest was excited to tell them the good news she had for them. "So I got some good news for y'all!" Tempest announced. "What is it?" asked Luna. "I got all of Sunset's papers including the guardianship papers today. So Saturday morning we'll go to DMV and get you an id card made and pick up a driver's manual." " But I made plans with my friend, Rarity on Saturday, " said Sunset. "Don't worry we'll be going early in the morning, so we can get there before it opens and gets too busy." Tempest explained, " So you'll still have plenty of time to be with you friend. " "Ok," said Sunset understandably, "Then can we sign the papers after dinner?" "Actually I was thinking we should throw you a party, welcoming you to the family as well as a signing ceremony." "That's a great idea!" said Luna excitingly. "You don't have to do that." Sunset said, " I already feel like a welcomed part of the family. " "Well your getting a party because you deserve one." said Tempest honestly, "Plus I already hired a party planner." "She's right." agreed Luna, "You've been working so hard this past week to better yourself. You deserve this chance to celebrate." Sunset felt a little teary eyed as she said, "I don't know what to say. You two keep doing so much for me and I haven't given you anything in return." " We're not doing any of this because we expect anything in return," Tempest said. "We're doing this because we care about you. " said Luna. "Thanks I promise to pay you back some day." "You don't have to do that." replied Luna. "But I want to," Sunset explained, " Because I've never had anyone care about me the way you two have. " Luna and Tempest both felt so happy to hear Sunset tell them that, that they too started to get teary eyed too. A few minutes of them continuing to eat dinner, Luna asks "Who's the party planner you hired?" "The best party planner in Canterlot or at least that's what her ad claims. She has a ton of great reviews online." Luna and Sunset look to each other, both thinking they may know this party planner. "Do you remember her name?" Luna asks " Hmm. " Tempest thought for a moment, "Her name was a color and a dessert." "Pinkie Pie." Both Luna and Sunset said together. "Ya, that's it!" Tempest remembered, "Wait do you know her?" "Yes, she's a student at my school." Luna answered. " And one of my friends. " Sunset added. "Well what a coincidence." Tempest said surprised, "No wonder she sounded super excited about planning this party." After they finished eating dinner, they went to the living room and watched a movie together before going to bed for the night. > Chapter 14 animal shelter > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "If we're going to have a party can I invite my friends?" Sunset asked the next morning during breakfast. "I don't know," Luna said as she drinks her mourning coffee, "Remember we don't want a lot of people at the school to know your living with us." "Well Fluttershy knows and Pinkie pie will know soon if she hasn't already figured it out." Sunset reminded her, "I also kind of let it slip with Rarity as well so she may already be suspicious." "Hmmm," Luna said in thought. "Honesty I don't have a problem with it," Tempest said in support, " She should be able to celebrate with her friends if she wants to. Plus I don't care if anyone knows or not. " "Please Luna?" Sunset asked while giving her a puppy dog eyes. "Alright." Luna said after thinking about it for a moment,"But I'll still need to let Celestia know. " "Yay!" Sunset says before getting up to hug Luna, "Thank you!" Luna and Tempest smiled. *** On the way to school Sunset texts Fluttershy to get the girls together and meet her in the office so she could talk to them. Once they were all together with Luna present except for Rainbow Dash they began. "So what did you want to talk to us about, Sunset?" asked Applejack. "Shouldn't we wait for Rainbow Dash?" Pinkie Pie asked. "No. I'll tell her about this later." Sunset explained, "I want to tell you all somthing that Fluttershy already knows about and I want the rest of you to know about it too." So Sunset told them everything. She told them about her living in an abandoned house and now she was living with Vice principal Luna and her girlfriend Tempest. She also told them about the guardianship too. All the girls were happy for her. "Well congratulations, Sunset!" said Applejack. "Yes darling, we are very happy for you." said Rarity. "Ya!" Pinkie pie said excitingly, "And I get to throw you a party too, right!" "Yep. Tempest set everything up with you yesterday Pinkie." Luna explained, "The party set for Sunday." " I was hoping you all would come to it." Sunset said hopeful. "Darling, of course we want to come." assured Rarity. "Gosh, you didn't even need to ask." said Applejack. "Well be more than happy to celebrate with you." said Fluttershy. "This is going to be the best party ever!" Pinkie pie said as load as she could. "Thanks girls." Sunset said happily They came together for a group hug before heading off to class with Luna smiling happily. ********************** Celestia let Sunset take a break from doing chores today. She didn't want Sunset's studies to get neglected while she was doing chores around the school. So Sunset spent all day in detention studying. Things were going relatively smoothly for Sunset today. She didn't have any problems with the other students other than the usual whispered chatter. She had an enjoyable lunch with the girls, except for Rainbow Dash who was still choosing not to be near Sunset unless she had to. Granny told Sunset that this would be the last day she and the girls would be allowed to eat lunch in the break room. Sunset would have to go back to eating lunch in the cafeteria with everyone else on Monday. Sunset was worried about it but the girl assured her they would be there with her. Surprisingly Rainbow Dash actually asked her for help with her school work during detention. Which made Sunset fell really good. Sunset also invited Rainbow Dash to the party on Sunday but didn't tell her about everything else she told the girls. "So I'm having this party on Sunday and I was hoping you would like to come too." Sunset explained, " Fluttershy and the girls are going to be there. Sunset handed Rainbow a piece of paper with the address for the party. "So will you come?" "I'll think about." Rainbow Dash said taking the piece of paper and putting it in her pocket. "Ok, I hope to see you there." Sunset said hopefully. Sunset decided she'll tell Rainbow later that she was living with Luna. There were to many people in detention that didn't need to know. All in all, Sunset had a really great day and was looking forward to helping Fluttershy out at the animal shelter. Sunset met up with Fluttershy outside the main office before following her to her car. Fluttershy's car was a small yellow car parked at the front of the parking lot. They both got in and made the way to the animal shelter. The animal shelter wasn't very far from the school, so it didn't take long to get there. The animal shelter was pretty big for a local shelter. It also had a large fenced in area in the back. Fluttershy parks her car in the parking lot next to the shelter. They got out and walked inside. They are greeted by the veterinarian running the shelter. "Hello, Fluttershy!" the veterinarian greeted her, "How are you doing?" "I'm doing good." Fluttershy said answering her greeting. "And thank you again for your help getting the adoption day set up with the school," the veterinarian said happily. "It was my pleasure!" The veterinarian turns to Sunset and introduces herself, "My name is Dr. Fauna and who might you be?" "This is my friend Sunset Shimmer." Fluttershy answered. The veterinarians expression soured immediately upon hearing Sunset's name. Sunset noticed this and realized that she knew about her past as a bully. Fluttershy notice too and tried to cut though the sudden tension. "I know what your thinking and it's ok," Fluttershy said trying to reassure the veterinarian, "Sunsets changed, she's not a bully anymore." "Ah huh." Dr. Fauna said unconvinced, "Fluttershy can I talk to you in my office for few minutes?" "Ok." said Fluttershy a little worried. Dr. Fauna look to Sunset, "And you can stay right here." She said looking angry. As they both walk down the hall to the veterinarians office, Sunset sat in a chair in the wait room sulking as she realized no matter were she was her past would always be there too. *** Fluttershy follows Dr. Fauna to her office. A office she'd been in many times over the last few years. Not because she was in trouble but she would be in here crying to Dr. Fauna about how she was being bullied at school. Once the veterinarian closed the door to the office, She began to question Fluttershy about Sunset. "Are you sure your ok?" Dr. Fauna asked concerned,"Your not in any kind of trouble are you? " "I'm fine." Fluttershy tried to reassure her,"If your worried about Sunset--" "Of course I'm worried about her being here. Am I supposed to ignore all the times you came here crying and upset about her bullying you constantly." "But she's changed and she trying to makes amends." "And you believe her?" "Yes!" Fluttershy said with conviction, "She even agreed to help us with the adoption day at the school." "Fine." Dr. Fauna said still unconvinced, "But if she steps out of line once she's gone." "I promise you she won't." Once they finished talking they returned to the waiting room were Sunset was. "Ready to get started?" Fluttershy cheerfully asked Sunset upon her return. "Ya." Sunset answered with a sad smile. Sunset followed Fluttershy out of the waiting room but as they left Dr. Fauna said to Sunset, "I'm watching you." Fluttershy took them first to the supply room to get a few things before arriving in a room full of cats. There was several cat trees for the cats to climb on and sleep in. There were litter boxes in every corner of the room and by the door were empty food and water bowls. Sunset takes a trash bag and a poop scooper they got from the supply room and begins to clean the litter boxes, while Fluttershy takes the food bowls and refills them. The cats waited by the door for Fluttershy to return with there food, except for a few younger ones who followed Sunset around the room. Once they both finished that, they refilled the water bowls. Most of the cats went straight for the food as soon as they were set down. But there was a few who wanted to play with Sunset and Fluttershy. "Hey Fluttershy."Sunset said while petting a cat in her lap, "Dr. Fauna knows about me bullying you, doesn't she?" "Yes" Fluttershy answers while also petting a couple cats laying next to her. "After our friends abandoned each other and with you constantly bullying me, I would often come here crying after school. The animal here were the only bright spot in my life at the time, but there were times when even that wasn't enough. Honestly I don't know if I'd still be here if Twilight hadn't showed up when she did." "You don't mean?" "Yes." Fluttershy confirmed, "I thought about suicide. I was on the edge of it before Twilight came." "But what about your family?" Sunset asked. Fluttershy shook her head,"They just told me that I need to stand up for myself and we both know how well that went for me. " Sunset and Fluttershy both think back to that moment over a year ago. *Please just leave alone I tired of you bullying me all the time, Fluttershy said as she tried to stand up for herself.* *SLAP! The sound of Sunset slapping Fluttershy across the face could be heard by everyone in the hallway. Then Sunset pushed Fluttershy down on to the floor. Fluttershy was crying out mercy as she laid on the floor holding her cheek.* *I'm sorry! I'm sorry! Please don't hurt me! Fluttershy pleaded.* *You should of thought of that before defying me! Sunset said before kicking Fluttershy hard in the stomach.* *Aahhhh! Fluttershy yelled out in pain.* *Sunset turns to the other students in the hallway watching, "This is what happens when any of you defy me, She them turns to Snips and Snails who were snickering the whole time, "Lets go I think she's learned her lesson."* *She then walks away leaving Fluttershy a crying mess on the floor.* They were quiet for a moment as the remembered what happened. "But things are better now," A cheerful Fluttershy said breaking the silence. "So lets go! We got a lot more animals to take care of." "Ok. " Sunset said still thinking about the past. The next group of animals were dogs of all different sizes and breeds. They were kept at the back of the shelter in a big room near the back door leading to the fenced in area outside. Each dog was in there own cage with there own food and water bowls. Fluttershy took the dogs outside to play and do there business, while Sunset cleans there cages. As Sunset cleaned the cages, She couldn't stop thinking about all the things she did to Fluttershy when she bullied her. The more she thought about it the more she would became discussed with herself. Without realizing it she began to cry. The thought of Fluttershy contemplating suicide because of her made her hate herself even more. "Hey Sunset are you almost done?" Fluttershy called from the back door. Sunsets voiced cracked as she answered, "Ya I'm almost done." She was unable to hide how upset she was. She quickly finished cleaning the cages and wiped the tears from her eyes before Fluttershy returned. Fluttershy notice how upset Sunset sounded. when she returned with the dogs she noticed that it looked like Sunset had been crying and she could see the despair in her face. She wondered if the conversation in the cat room earlier was still on her mind. She quickly feeds the dogs with Sunsets help. Then she took Sunset to an empty patient room and left door open a little. "Do we need to clean this room too?" Sunset asks. "No." "Then what are we in here for?" "To take a break and talk." Fluttershy says sitting in a near by chair. "Oh ok." Sunset says sitting down the chair next to Fluttershy. Fluttershy turns her chair to face Sunset. "Sunset please tell me what's wrong. I can tell your upset," Even though Fluttershy thought she knew what was bothering Sunset, She knew it was better to ask. " Whats wrong? There's noth- ... " Sunset trailed off and paused for a moment. *Who am I kidding, of course she can tell.* "Sunset?" Fluttershy said concerned. There was another pause before Sunset answered. "While I was cleaning the dog cages, All I could think about was all the terrible things I did to you." Sunset began to cry again, "And the more I thought about it the more I hated myself for all the things I did to you. I realized I'm a terrible person." "But your not that person anymore," Fluttershy said trying to reassure her. "That doesn't change the facts! And how do you know I won't go back to being that person again." Fluttershy uses her finger to wipe away some of her tears and shows it to her. "This is how I know. The fact that you feel bad for the things you've done is all the proof I need. The old Sunset wouldn't of cared." "I don't get it. After all the things I've done to you, here you worrying about me. Why don't you hate me? Why do you want to help me?" "Because I never blamed you or my friends for what happened." Fluttershy took a deep breath, "I blamed myself." "Why?" asked a confused Sunset, "I'm the one who bullied you. I caused you and your friends to break up. I caused Rainbow Dash to break up with you. I even push you to almost commit suicide!" "No." Fluttershy cried out. She began to cry as she revealed the truth of her own feelings, "I did it to myself! I blamed myself for not being able to stand up to you. I blamed myself for not stopping my friends from breaking up. I even blamed myself for not fixing things with Rainbow Dash. I hated myself for being a cowered and weakling who can't do anything on her own. I just stood there and let it happen. Twilight did what I should have done from the start and even now I still blame myself for what happened." Sunset was speechless. She couldn't believe that Fluttershy thought of herself like that. Fluttershy took a deep breath to calm herself before she continued, "You asked why I wanted to help you and it's because I know what it's like to be on edge of suicide. Twilight may have pulled me away from the edge but I can still see it so clearly even now. Fluttershy looks Sunset in her eyes, "And now when I look at the edge, I can see you heading towards it. You may now realize it yourself but I could tell that if things didn't get better for you soon you would be in the same place I was. I couldn't sit by and let that happen." Sunset took Fluttershy hand in to hers, " But Fluttershy that means you've changed too. " Fluttershy looks at Sunset shocked as she continued, "You said you couldn't do anything on your own but you've been helping me without your friends help. It was you who ran after me after what happened in the cafeteria the other day. You even gave me your lunch." Sunset smiled, "You wait for me every morning by the office to make sure I'm doing ok. You've gone out of your way to help me. I don't think your that weak girl I bullied anymore." Fluttershy couldn't believe Sunset was describing her but the more she thought about she realized Sunset was right. She had changed without even realizing it. " I guess Twilight helped us more than we realized. " They laughed a little out of happiness and hugged each other. As they pulled away Sunset says, " Thank you for being my friend. My very first friend. " Sunset and Fluttershy leave the room together happy that they were able to share there feelings with each other. *** Next Fluttershy took Sunset to the small critters room. There were lots of small mammals like hamsters, hedgehogs, ferrets and even mice. There areas had already be cleaned so all they had to was feed them. After that they went to the reptile room to feed them as well. There lots of lizards, and a few snakes and turtles. The last room was is big aquarium full with lots different types of fish, big and small. They didn't have anything to do here but Fluttershy want to show them to her anyways. By the time they finished it was about 6:30 p.m. Which meant the shelter was closing soon. They were about to leave when Dr. Fauna asked them to come to her office. "I owe you both an apology," Dr. Fauna said once they were all sitting in her office. While Sunset was surprised and speechless, Fluttershy asked, "What for?" "First for eavesdropping on your conversation in the empty patient room, " Dr. Fauna explained, " I saw the both of you go in there and thought it was suspicious. So I walk to the door preparing to intervene if necessary, but instead I stood there and listened to your conversation. I quickly left before you exited the room and I'm sorry for that." The both nodded as they understood her reasoning, as she continued. "Second, as I listened to your conversation. I realized I was too quick to judge you Sunset and I should have trusted you Fluttershy." Fluttershy was going to say something but Sunset beat her to it, "No. You had every reason to not trust me. I've done a lot of things I'm not proud of. "But I still should of given you a chance." Dr. Fauna said honestly, " And third, I never realized that things were that bad for you two. I'm sorry Fluttershy for not noticing it and I want you both to know if need someone to talk to my door is always open." "Thanks." they both said. Dr. Fauna looked at her watch and said, "Well it's closing time. So you girls better head on home and I hope to see you both again soon." They both thanked her again and said there goodbyes to her before leaving. As they walked back to Fluttershy's car, Fluttershy asks, " Hey Sunset do you want to go get something out to eat before going home? " "Sure," Sunset quickly answered, "But I better call Luna just to make sure it's ok." While Sunset makes her phone call, Fluttershy gets in her car and thinks about the last few hours. She was happy to have finally told someone the feelings she kept bottled up deep inside. It was like great weight had been taken off her shoulders. The passenger car door opens and Sunset gets in. "Sooo?" Fluttershy asks . "She said yes!" Sunset said happily, "As long as I'm back before ten." "I think I know just the place to go." Fluttershy turns the car on and drives them to the restaurant. They have a great dinner together as the friendship between them grows. > Chapter 15 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunset awoke early Saturday morning, still thinking about the time she spent Fluttershy the day before. Sunset felt like her friendship with Fluttershy was much stronger now that they've come to terms with what happened in the past. And now she was hoping the same thing will happen with The other girls too. Now she was really looking forward to the time she was going to spend with Rarity later today, as well as the party tomorrow. But before that could happen.... "Are you ready to go kiddo?" Tempest said as she stood in the door way of Sunsets room. "Yep," replied Sunset. Sunset was going with Tempest to the DMV to get her a id card as well as her own copy of the driver's manual. Sunset was wearing some of Luna old clothes today. She was wearing long jeans, black and white tenashoes, a black tanktop, and a blue flannel shirt. She also tied hair up into a ponytail. Tempest was wearing long dark blue jeans and a leather jacket. Sunset quietly followed Tempest to they garage so they wouldn't wake Luna. Inside the garage was Luna's car, Tempest's van, and a motorcycle with a sidecar attached to it. "Wow! It's so cool," Sunset said looking at the motorcycle. She couldn't wait till she got the chance to drive it. "Yep she's a beauty," Tempest said in agreement, "I've had her for a long time now," She said as she handed Sunset Luna's helmet to wear until she got her own. Tempest put on her helmet and got on her bike. Sunset hopped into the side car while Tempest started her The motorcycle. It started on the first try and then they pulled out of the garage and down the street. Sunset loved The feel of the wind blowing passed her as they drove down the street. Before she realized it they had arrived at the DMV. It was still early and the sun was beginning to rise when they got there, but there was already a line beginning form at the front of the DMV. It was still going to be another half hour before they opened so they quickly got in line before it got any longer. By the time the DMV did open the line had doubled in size. "Is this why we had to come early?" Sunset asked. "Yes, I don't how but the DMV is always crazy busy." "How long do you think we'll be in here?" "A couple of hours, probably?" Tempest said unsure. So Sunset passed the time by reading the driver's manual she got when they were finally inside. Anything to keep her mind off the fact that she was in a government building. Sunset was still nervous about being in a government building. She had always avoided them since she was from another world. *** "Finally!" Sunset said as they walked out of DMV, "I can't believe it took so long to get this little piece of plastic." "Wait till you have to take the test," Tempest teased, "You'll be in there even longer." "Oh God. I don't what to even begin to think about that." Tempest looks at her phone to check The time, "We still have some time. Do you what to go get something quick to eat before going to your friends house? " "Sure." Sunset said. It was early when they left this morning so she hadn't had anything to eat yet. Tempest drives them to the nearest coffee shop. They both get a cup of coffee and a muffin. While they are there Sunset tells her about the previous day with Fluttershy. "Well I'm glad you two were able to share your feelings with each other," Tempest said happily, " I'm a little jealous. " "Why?" Sunset asked curiously. "Well kiddo, Luna doesn't talk about her past. Even thou I've told her about mine." Tempest explained,"All I know is that something happened to her before we meet and she keeps that part of her life walled off from everyone who doesn't already know about it. " "Maybe she'll tell us about it someday ." "Ya, maybe she will." A moment passed before Sunset asked, " So how did you two meet? " "Sorry kiddo, as much as I'd like to till you. I can't." "Why not?" "Because what ever happened in Luna's past, it's what led to us meeting and since I don't know much about it I can't till you about it. That goes the same for my past. And beside we don't have time for it." Sunset glanced at the clock on her phone, "Ya you right we better get going!" *** Sunset arrives at Rarity's house. Her house was average in size but it look glamorous like a mansion. She waves goodbye to Tempest as she drives away. Once Tempest is out of sight she walks up to Rarity's house and rings the door bell. The door was opened by Rarity's little sister Sweetie Belle a few minutes later. "Hello who is... " was all Sweetie belle managed to say as she got a good look at who was at the door. " Hello I'm here to --" SLAM! Sweetie belle slammed the door shut in Sunsets face. *I guess I should have seen that coming.* *********** Rarity was in her room getting ready for Sunsets arrival. She had been looking forward to it all morning. She was a little worried about how things would go but she had faith that things would go well. Suddenly her sister, Sweetie Belle came running into her room. "Rarity you wont-" "Sweetie belle, how many times have I told to knock before entering my room," Rarity reprimanded her. "But your not going to believe this!" Sweetie said ignoring her sisters remark, "Sunset Shimmer is at our front door!" "Oh good she's here!" Rarity said excitingly. "Wait you invited her?" Sweetie questioned while looking at her sister as if she was crazy, "Why would you do that?" "Because she my friend." Rarity said proudly, " Did you let her in? " "No! why would I let the school bully into our house." "Sweetie Belle! How can you be so rude to my friend!" Rarity said disappointingly. Rarity quickly got up to leave her room but as she exit the room she says to her sister, "And for the record she not a bully anymore." Rarity quickly made her way down the hall, down the stairs, and thru the living room to reach the front door. When she openned the door, she found Sunset sitting on the porch steps with her head in her knees. Rarity walks up closer to her and places her hand on Sunset s shoulder "Sunset?" Sunset looks up at Rarity with a few tears in her eyes. "Rarity?" Sunset surprised as she quickly wipes away her tears with her shirt sleeve. Rarity sits down on the porch next to her. "Are you ok, Sunset? I'm sorry about Sweetie Belle. It's my fault I didn't think it was necessary to tell her that you were coming over." "It's ok. I probably deserved it to some extent." "Darling, that still doesn't make it right," Rarity said honesty, "Why do we go inside." "Ok." Sunset says before following Rarity inside her house. Rarity's house was as glamorous inside as it was outside. There were family photos and paintings in the walls. One thing sunset notice was the absences of Rarity s parents. "Is it just you and your sister here?" "For the moment. My parents went out to run a few errands. They'll be back later." "Oh ok." Sunset said as they went upstairs to Rarity s room. As they made their way to Rarity s room they passed sweetie belles room. Sweetie gave Sunset a mean look before closing the door to her room. They finally arrived at Rarity s room at the end of the hallway. She steps into Rarity s room to find a big bed with a beautiful diamond pattern on the sheets and a white cat laying in top. There was a large dresser on one side of the bed and a large desk with a sewing machine on it on the other side of the room. At the back of the room was large vanity mirror next to the walk-in closet. Sunset sat down on the bed while Rarity walk over to her desk. The white cat walk over and started rub up against Sunset. Sunset pet her and she purr in return before laying down next to her. "Well I see Opalescence likes you, " Rarity said cheerfully. "So we're should we start?" asked Sunset as she continued to pet Opalescence. "Well I have a few designs already thought out, but I'm having trouble with the Reaper's costume." Rarity handed Sunset some of her designs. "Reaper? What kind of Halloween play is this?" "It's call Love Beyond Death. It's about a grimm reaper, who is sent to take the soul of a beautiful woman. But he instantly falls in love with her. The reaper then protects her from the other reaper's trying to take her soul." "Wow that sounds interesting. How does it end?" Sunset asked curiously. "You will have to watch the play to find out, Darling," Rarity teased. They then spent the next few hours working on the reaper's costume design as well as tweaking a few of the other designs with Sunset suggestions. "Well I've worked up an appetite," Rarity announced, "What about you darling do you want a snack? " "That sounds like a good idea. " The two of them left Rarity s room and made the way downstairs to the kitchen. Rarity took out some of her strawberries for them to share. They ate on them for few minutes till someone from outside the kitchen called out to them. "Rarity is that you in the kitchen?" a woman's voice call out. "Yes mother, Sunset and I were just having a snack." "Can you two come to the living room?" a male voice called out. "Sure." Sunset and Rarity walked in to the living room to find Rarity's parents, Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbles as well as Sweetie Belle. "When did you get back? " asked Rarity "About 20 minutes ago," answered Cookie. " Oh I should introduce you to my new friend Sunset-" "Shimmer." Hondo finishing her sentence with a disappointing tone, "Yes Sweetie Belle was just telling us about her." Rarity and Sunset glanced at each other worryingly. "Just what did my dear sister tell you." "That she's a bully and the reason you and your friends broke up." replied Cookie. "That's true but-" "What I can figure out is why you brought her here," Hondo said once again cutting her daughter off. "As I've already stated, she's my friend now and she's not a bully anymore." "Well we don't approve of you being friends with a bully," Hondo raised his hand before Rarity could interrupt, " It doesn't matter if she still is or not. " "This is what we believe is best," Cookie said agreeing with her husband. "But that's not fair to Sunset or me," Rarity countered. "That's not your decision to make." Hondo said putting his foot down. " But-" Sunset thought to herself as they continued to argue, *I'm causing trouble for my friends again.* Sunset decided to finally speak up before this gets dragged out any further. "I really am sorry for the things I've done and I'm trying to make amends. But if my being here is causing too much trouble, I can leave." "Sunset, You don't have to-" "I think that would be best." declared Cookie. "Mom you can't-" "Don't argue with your mother." "It's ok Rarity, I'll be fine" Sunset said trying reassure her friend as well as herself. Sunset leaves the room to get her things from Rarity s room. When she came back downstairs, She went straight to the door without saying anything to anyone. She walked out the door and slowly down the driveway. A moment later she hears a car horn. Honk! honk! Sunset turns around to see a car pulling out of the garage. It was a silver mustang. It pulls up next to Sunset and when the window rolls down she sees Rarity in the driver seat. "Rarity what are you doing?" "What? You didn't think I was going to let you walk home alone did you?" "No I was going to call Luna or Tempest for a ride." "Where you really?" Sunset sighed, "No your right. I wasn't going to call them." "Then hop on in and I'll give you ride home." "Thanks Rarity. Thanks for standing up for me." Sunset said getting into the car. "Darling, I would stand up to Tartarus itself if it was for my friends." Rarity said with conviction. "And I'm sorry about Sweetie Belle and my parents." "It's ok. I've learned that not everyones going to let go of the past so easy." It was quiet for moment before Rarity tried to lighten the mood, " Hey instead of taking you home, why don't we see if any of our friends want to hang out? " "Sure. I'm not ready to go home yet anyways." So Rarity sends out a group text to there friends. After a few minutes they got some answers. "So what did they say?" Sunset asked as Rarity began to read the text messages . "No answer from Rainbow Dash. No surprise there. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy are both busy. Applejack is busy too, but she said we can come over and help her out if we wanted to. " "Well I did tell her that I wanted to help her out of she needed it. So lets give her a hand." **** About an hour later they arrived at Sweet Apple Acres. They find Applejack unloading her truck filled with baskets of apples with her dog Winona following her. She stops to wave to them as they pulled up into the driveway. When they get out, Winona runs up to them to say hi. Sunset kneels down to pet her as Applejack joins them. "Well thanks for coming up to help Sugers." Greeted Applejack. "It's no problem," said Sunset still letting Winona, " I made a promise to you after all. So what can we do to help? " "Well I could use a hand out in the orchard and Granny could use some help in the kitchen making some Apple treats." "Where's Big Mac and Applebloom?" asked Rarity. "Big Mac's with some friends playing Ogres & Oubliettes and Applebloom's working on a school project." "I'll help you out in the orchard," said Sunset as she stood back up. "Then I'll help Granny," replied Rarity. "Well then follow me Sunset." Rarity heads inside the house while Sunset follows Applejack to her truck. It was an old and rusted, but was still good enough to use on the farm. They finished unloading the truck before load up some empty baskets on to the truck. They get in and Applejack drives the truck down a path thru the apple orchard. Applejack stops the truck once they arrive at there destination. She turns off the truck and they get out. Sunset is amazed at the shear size of the orchard. There were apple trees as far as her eyes could see. "So are you ready for some apple picking?" asked Applejack as she grabs some of the baskets from the back of the truck. "Ya, but isn't this a lot to do by yourself?" Sunset asked concerned. "Yes, but normally I'm not doing this alone. Honesty, Granny told me not to work too hard since I'm by myself, but I'll admit that I'm probably doing more than I really need to." "Why's that? " "Because I'm not going to be able to help out tomorrow." "Because of the party?" " Bingo. Plus I don't skip out on farm work very often." Applejack explained as they walk to the nearest apple tree. Sunset looks up at the tree and asks, " So what do we do first? " "Well, " Applejack says as she hand Sunset a basket, "We pick the apples we can get from the ground and come back later with ladder to get the rest. Once the baskets are filled we load them up and take them back to the house." "Sounds simple enough." So Applejack and Sunset picked apples for the next few hours. Once they finished loading up the truck for the last time they were ready call it a day and head back to the house. But Applejack decided she wanted to show Sunset something first. So she drove deeper in to the orchard. "Where are we going?" Sunset asked when she realized they weren't heading back to the house. "To the far end of the orchard. There something there I want to show you." "What is it?" "You'll see." After a few minutes of driving they arrived at a clearing. In the middle of the clearing was a pair of trees intertwined in the shape of a heart. "Wow." Sunset said amazed by the two trees. She had never seen anything like it before. Sunset got out to get a closer look. Upon further inspection one tree was an Apple tree the other day was a pear tree. Sunset was surprised since the Apple family was known for there Apples and it's the only pear tree she had seen in the orchard. "My parents planted these trees." said Applejack before Sunset could ask, "The Apple tree represents my dad and the pear tree is my mom. They planted these as a symbol of there love." "But why a pear tree?" "My mom came from a pear family that use to complete with us in fruit sales." Applejack smiled sadly as she remembered the story she had been told since she was a child. "They first met when they were kids and over time the fell in love. They had to get married in secret but it didn't take long for Granny and Grandpear to find out. Granny was against it at first." "Because she was a pear?" "Right. But Granny cared more about dad's happiness then her rivalry with the pears, so she welcomed mom to the family with open arms. To bad the same couldn't be said for Grandpear. He hated the apples so much he left town and abandoned his daughter. A few years ago he came back and made amends with the family, but my parents were already gone by then." " What happened?" "A car wreck." Applejack said as few tears fell down her face. "They were on there way to a nearby town to sell some apples, when they got ran off the road by a drunk driver." "Oh I'm sorry." Sunset said sincerely. "It's ok, " she said wiping away the tears, "This tree is one of two things I have to remember them by." "What's the other?" "My hat." Applejack replied taking off her hat to show her a name tag inside that read "Bright Mac" on it. "This was my dad's hat." "Sounds like they were pretty good people." "Ya they were." Applejack says as she puts her hat back on, "But that's not the only thing I wanted to show you." Applejack got Sunset to follow her to the far edge of the clearing. She stopped at an apple tree that had been carved into with words. It read "Friends Forever" with initials underneath. "R" for Rarity, "RD"for Rainbow Dash, "FS" for Fluttershy, "PP" for Pinkie Pie and "AJ" for Applejack. "We each carved our initials on it back in middle school. And," Applejack said as she pulled out a pocket knife. "Now that we're friends I thought you might want to add your initials to it too." Sunset takes the knife from Applejack and approaches the tree. She once again reads the inscription on the tree. *I would be honored to add my initials here, but..* Sunset turns back to Applejack and hands back the knife. "Thanks, but I can't add my initials here. Not yet." "It's because of Rainbow Dash isn't it." "Yes," Sunset confirmed, "I don't think it would be right to add my initials without becoming friends with Rainbow dash too. I hope that's not disappointing." "Not at all," Applejack was quick to assure her, "I totally understand what your saying and your right. I probably jump the gun on this and I probably should have discussed it with the others first." " But thanks for trying to include me. " "No problem! Now let's head back before it gets to late." ***** Once they finished unloading the truck, Sunset and Rarity said there goodbyes to Applejack. But before they could leave Granny gave them each a couple of Apple pies as thanks for helping out. Sunset was happy at how thing went today, all things considered. She hope the party tomorrow would be even better. > Chapter 16 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Luna and Tempest decided a few days ago to take Sunset to the mall while preparations for the party were underway. Celestia was going to be at their house while they were gone, so she could let pinkie pie and the other guest in. So once Celestia arrived they headed to the mall. It only took them about half an hour to get to the Canterlot mall. The mall was very busy and crowded even on a Sunday afternoon. Sunset was still surprise at the shear size of the mall. Once they were inside, Luna asked, "So were should we go to first?" "Why don't you decide Sunset," suggested Tempest, " Is that any where in particular you want to go? " "I don't know," answered Sunset, "I don't know what kind of stores they have." "That's rights this is the first time your getting to fully explore the mall," Tempest remembers. "Well then let's start with a clothing store. I know one that should be to your liking." Suggested Luna. "And if you see any store you want to check out, just let us know and we'll check it out. Ok, kiddo?" "Okay." They walk around for a bit before they arrived a clothing store that mainly catered to teenagers. "Now Sunset, if you see something you like; don't be afraid to tell us. " announced Luna. "That's ok. You don't have to keep spending money on me. " "Sunset this isnt about spending money. We just want to know more about the things you like and dislike as well as you learning about ours," said Tempest. "But you can't get mad, if we do decide to get something for you, " declared Luna. "Ok. " Sunset agreed and understood. They walked around the clothing store for while picking out clothes they each liked. Each of them talked about the different types of clothes they liked. Tempest and Sunset don't like wearing dresses. Luna and Tempest both preferred darker colors, while Sunset doesn't have any color preferences. They managed to talk Sunset into picking out a set of clothes that she likes, so they could get it for her. "So where to next? " asked Sunset as do that walked out of the store. "There's an athletic store that sells motorcycle helmets, " answered Tempest "We might as well get you your own helmet." "Really? Isnt it too early for that? " "Not at all and this way you won't have to keep borrowing Luna's. " Tempest lead the way to the athletic store. As they make their way there, Luna notices Sunset glancing longingly at a couple of store but she doesn't say anything. So Luna make a note to her self to stop at those stores. Tempest showed them the way thou the store to where the helmets were. There were all sorts of helmets of different shapes and sizes with different designs on them, but none of them stood out to Sunset. " Is there anything you like?" asked Luna. "Umm. " Tempest noticed Sunset was having trouble picking out a helmet, "You know; if there's not a design here you like, we can get a blank helmet and put your own design on it." "Ya. I like that idea." They walked up to the counter with Sunsets new helmet and payed for it. They left the store and walked around the mall for a little while. Sunset was still choosing not to speak up, so Luna decided to take matters into her own hands. "I have an idea. Lets go to a music store. I remember us passing one a while ago," Luna suggested. "Huh?" Sunset was surprised by the sudden suggestion of a place she wanted to go to. "That's right she has a guitar doesn't she? " asked Tempest, "Now that I think about it, I don't think I've heard you play it at all since you moved in." "That's because I can't play it right now." "Why not?" "I need to get some new guitar strings. A couple of them broke a few months ago. I also need a new guitar pick too. I can't seem to find the one I had." "Then let's go there next." Announced Luna. "No that's ok. We don't have to go there. It's not that important." Sunset said unconvincing. "But it's something you like to do right?" asked Tempest. "Ya but- " "Then it's important to us, Sunset." replied Luna. Sunset smiled. She realized there was no convincing them otherwise so she gave up and thanked them They walk to the nearby music store. They didn't know were in the store to get guitar supplies so they asked a clerk who kindly helped them out. They got a set of guitar strings and Sunset picked out a few guitar picks with different designs on them. Sunset was only going to get one guitar pick, but Luna and Tempest convinced her to get a few extras. When they walked out of the music store, Luna asked "Is there anywhere else you want to go to Sunset?" Knowing there was. "Umm. ." Sunset thought to herself for a moment. Like the music store there was another store she wanted to check out and like the music store she wasn't planning on saying anything. But she was pretty sure Luna knew, so there wasn't any point in hiding it. "There is one other place I'll like to go to." Sunset finally admitted. "Where's that?" "I saw an arts and crafts store. I'd like to get some art supplies." " Oh! What kind of art do you like to do, " Asked Tempest. "Mostly drawing and painting, but I've never been able to do any of it outside school." "Then let's fix that." said Tempest. "I can't wait to see your art work." Luna said, As they made there way to the art store. "Actually you have seen my art before." "I have? When?" asked Luna surprised. "Do you remember the mural someone painted on the side of the school a couple of years ago?" Luna thought back to it. It was a painting of a beautiful blue horse galloping though the night sky. "Ya. I really liked it but Celestia and the school board ruled it to be the work of vandels. I hated that the pained over it. I try to convince Celestia to keep but it was still painted over." "But wait are you saying you painted it?" She asked. "Ya. I painted it," Sunset admitted. Luna got serious for a moment, " First, you do realize I'll have to tell Celestia about this. "I know." "Second," Luna return to her normal self. " I really did like it. " Luna takes out her phone to show Sunset, "I managed to get pictures of it before they pained over it." Tempest looks too, "Oh, isn't that the background on your computer? " "Yep." replied Luna, "Sunset, I can't wait to see more of your work. So let's get you some new art supplies. Just don't use the school as your canvas again." "I promise." Sunset blushing happily. She was a little embarrassed and happy to know someone liked her art work. When they arrived, this time Sunset was the one dragging them around. Sunset was amazed at all the different art supplies and tools they had. As much as she wanted to get a little bit of everything, She decided to only get what she needed. She got a couple of sketch books , some paint, and some color pencils. After that there wasn't anymore stores that Sunset wanted to go to. So the three of them walked out of the store with smiles on there faces. Sunset couldn't wait to get home for the party. ****** Celestia watched as Luna, Tempest, and Sunset left. She was more than happy to help with the party while they were gone. About an hour later Pinkie pie and the other girls arrived with decorations and refreshments. Celestia and the girls out up decorations as a few other guests arrived. Celestia phone beeps and she checks it to find a text from Luna saying that there on there way back. Celestia relays the message to everyone else. They turn out all the lights and hide as the waiting anticipation of the door opening. **** The sun was setting by the time Luna, Sunset, and Tempest returned home. There were a lot of vehicles parked at there house. Sunset recognized some of her friends vehicles. There was one vehicle that stood out from the rest thou, a pink van covered in rainbows. She figured that it was most likely Pinkie Pies. They walked up to the house and opened the door. It was dark and quiet, but as soon as the lights came on... "SURPRISE!" Yelled everyone as they jump out of there hiding places. Sunset smiled brightly. She was so happy to see her friends, as well as some people she wasn't expecting, and a couple of people she didn't know. Pinkie Pie quickly bounced over to Sunset, "So what do you think?" "I thinks it wonderful!" Everyone came up and took turns greeting them. Each of her friends hugged her and Celestia and Potion Nova asked how she was doing. Chrysalis introduced Sunset to her kids. Pharynx who Sunset already meet. Her second son Thorax who had green hair. He was in the same grade as her. And her daughter Ocellus who had light blue hair. She was still in middle school. Then there was a gentleman with a white beard. "So this is Sunet Shimmer," said the gentleman offering his hand for a handshake, "It's a pleasure to finally meet you." "Sunset, this is our friend Discord." Luna introduced , "Hs also helped us get you papers straight." "Oh!" Sunset said shaking Discord's hand, " Thank you for the help. I hope it wasn't to much trouble. " "No trouble at all," assured Discord, "I'd do anything for Luna and Celestia." "So what do you do for a living?" asked Sunset. "Freelance cyber security. I work for varies company's as well the government. I use to be quite the hacker back in the day," "Is that how you helped me?" "Of course." Sunset then thanked everyone for coming and they gave her around of applause. They then all took turns going into the kitchen to get some food. Everyone insisted that Sunset should go first. Sunset walks in and finds a moderate assortment of food and drinks, as well as the vegetable lasagna that Tempest prepared the night before. Sunset gets a bottle of tea, a bag of chips and a plate of lasagna. She takes her food into the living room and begins to eat. Everyone comes by to talk to her for a little bit before moving on. Once Sunset finished her plate, she made her way back to the kitchen to return it and heard a few of the different conversations everyone was having. She saw Applejack talking to Discord. " You know my big brother, Big Mac? "Yes, I know Sir McBiggun very well. " "Wait that's his... Oh your one of his Ogres & Oubliettes friends. Yes indeed. Captain Wuzzat your service. Sunset them spotted Pinkie Pie talking to Chrysalis and her kids. She was talk about her many sisters. As she continued walking to the kitchen when she heard the conversation between Fluttershy, Rarity, and Potion Nova. "So how are you doing memorizing your lines?" asked Rarity, "The plays in a couple of weeks." "I'm getting there," Fluttershy spoke softly, "I'm just a little nervous." " Well If you have a case of state fright, I find imagining the crowd as your favorite things helps me. " said Potion Nova. "Like my animal friends?" 'Ya, that will work. " Play? Stage fright? Douse that mean...? Sunset was curious to find out more. "Fluttershy are you going to be in a play?" Sunset asked. "Y-yes." Fluttershy said surprised by sunset suddenly joining the conversation. "What play?" "The schools Halloween play, love beyond death," replied Rarity, " She plays the love interest. " "Wow. That's awesome Fluttershy." "Well I normally just do small roles so I wouldn't stand out. But everyone has wanted me to take on a bigger role for a long time now. And I've wanted to too. Now that I have, I'm worried I'm going to mess up." "And your the right person for the role," said Rarity, " So you'll do fine. " "Well if you need someone to practice with. I'm more than willing to help," Suggested Sunset. "And practicing with a friend will help with you confidence," added Potion Nova. "Thanks I think I might take you up on that offer." "No problem." said Sunset finishing her detour. She once again made her way to the kitchen. When she got in there she found Luna, Tempest, and Celestia having a conversation. "You should of seen her dragging us around the art store." Said Luna . " She was like a kid in a candy store. " Added Tempest. Sunset blushed a little as she realized they were taking about her. "Sounds like y'all had fun," smiled Celestia, " I wonder what mom and dad would think of Sunset. " "Who knows? Luna tone had slightly changed. Sunset hear the hidden anger in her voice. "I wasn't planning on introducing Sunset to them or having any kind of interaction with them." "I know don't want to forgive them but you should at least give them a chance." said Celestia, " I know how you feel. Belive me, I was a sceptic too, but they really have changed. " "I don't know. They made life hard for me. "I know and I know you don't like me bring it. But I want you to know that mom's health has been declining. It would do her wonders to hear from her other daughter." "Fine." Luna says giving in, " I'll think about it, but I'm not making any promises. " "That's all ask." is the last Celestia says before leave the kitchen. Luna signs before leaving the kitchen too. "What was that about?" Sunset asks Tempest. "I don't the details but Luna has an grudge against her parents. I've always assumed had something to do with what ever happened in the past." "Oh." Sunset says she went to grab her a drink and notices they were getting low on drinks. " Hey Tempest were getting low on drinks. " Tempest got up to look too. "Well I guess I better go get some more. I'll run up the street and get some." "Hey Tempest is it alright if I take Fluttershy upstairs to meet pets, while your gone?" "Sure. It's probably about time to feed them anyways." "Thank you Tempest!" Sunset said happily. Sunset went back to the living room to get Fluttershy. She found her by herself looking at the books on the shelf. "Hey Fluttershy." Sunset said as she walked over to Fluttershy, Do you want to meet out pets? " Fluttershy eyes lit up like Christmas lights. " I would love to. " "Ok, follow me." Sunset guided Fluttershy up stairs. Sunset counld hear Tempest leaving in her motorcycle as they made there way up stairs. They walked down the hall to Tempest's room. They walked in to the dresser with Grubber the hedgehogs cage on top. Sunset grabs the towel next to the cage and takes him out just like Tempest showed her. "This is Tempest pet hedgehog Grubber." "Aaaahhhh!" said Fluttershy, as Sunset hands Grubber and the tower to her. "He's so cutie!" she said even though he had curl up into a ball out of shyness. "Ya, he is." sunset agreed as she put fresh food and water it has cage before putting him back in. Sunset then started to look around the room before saying, " I guess he's not in here. Let's check my room. " Sunset and Fluttershy walk across the hall to Sunsets room. Sunset immediately checks under her bed. "Who are we look for?" Fluttershy asked. "Tantabus, Lunas pet ferret. She likes to hide and play panks." "Oh, well I think she just jump on my head." Sunset looks back up to Fluttershy and sure enuff Tantabus was on her head. Tantabus looked like she was surprised that her prank didn't work. "There you are. "Sunset says before Tantabus jump on the bed and the both of them sit on the bed with Tantabus in between them, as they begin to pet her. "Hey Fluttershy can I ask you something?" Sunset asks as she stopped petting Tantabus. "Sure." Fluttershy says as she continues to pet Tantabus "You said you had what to take bigger role in the school plays for a long time now. Why didn't you?" "Umm.. I.. Well you see.." Fluttershy said nervously try to find the right way to answer. Sunset sighs. " It was because of me right? " "...Yes I was always worried you would find out and ruin it for everyone just to get at me." "I'm sorry." "It's ok I wouldn't worry about it to much." "Why not?" "Because your also the reason I'm doing it now." "Huh?"Sunset said confused, "What do you mean?" "Well I've seen how hard you've been trying to change yourself. I think it's very brave of you. It's inspired me to try to step out of my comfort zone and do what I've always wanted to. "Really! I did that? " Sunset asked blushing." "Yep, so let head on back to the party. What do you say?" Fluttershy says holding out her hand. "Ya lets go." Sunset says as she takes her hand. Sunset gives Tantabus some food before they both pet Tantabus goodbye. As they made there way back down stairs Sunset once again heard a motorcycle.*Tempest is back already? That was fast* She parted ways with Fluttershy and went to the door to help Tempest with the drinks. ***** Rainbow dash was on her motorcycle driving to Sunsets house and even now she was still debating on whether she turn around or not. She almost did a few times already. Her friends had been blowing up her phone all day with text messages asking if she was coming or not. She still wasn't sure this was a good idea. She finally arrived and parked her bike next to the sidewalk at the end of the driveway. She then began a slow walk up the driveway as she continued to debate whether it was to late turn back. When she got to the front doo she hears them having fun inside. she was about to knock on the door when... *What am I doing? I don't want to be here. Thou all friends are here, but doesn't mean I have to be friends with her too. Even thou she's been helping me with my school work, I still don't want to be friends with her. I'm not ready to forgive her yet.* She had finally managed to convince herself to turn back but as she walked away the front door opened. "Rainbow dash?" Rainbow turns around to see Sunset at the door "When did you get here?" a surprised Sunset asks before noticing the motorcycle at the end of the driveway. "Oh, so it was your motorcycle I heard. I didn't know you counld drive one." Without saying anything, Rainbow began to walk back to her motorcycle. "Wait! Where are you going?" Sunset asks as she follows her. "You just got here, right?" "Home. It sounds like y'all are having fun without me any ways." "But we can have more fun with you." Rainbow stopped at the end of the driveway and signed. She turns around to face Sunset. "Coming here was a mistake. I'm not ready for this. I'm not ready to forgive you." "Oh. Okay. "replied Sunset sadly. "That's it? Your giving in just like that. Your not going to beg me to stay. Your not going to try to convince me that I'm wrong about you." "No. If your not ready, then I'll just wait until you are. I'm not going to force you." Sunset smiled, "I really do want to be your friend, so I'm happy that you stopped by." Rainbow began to get on her motor while Sunset watched. Before she started it she said "Goodbye Sunset." Rainbow quickly started up her bike and drives away before she could change her mind again. She passes another motorcycle on the way out. As she drives away, she feels a dull ache in her chest. *Am I feeling sorry for Sunset. No that can't be right.* She pushes those thoughts and feelings aside as she makes her way home. **** Sunset watched as Rainbow drives away and as Tempest returns on her motorcycle. Sunset follows her back up the driveway. "Hey Tempest!" Sunset says as Tempest turns off her motorcycle. "Hey Sunset." Tempest said as she got off her motorcycle. "Who was that?" "That was Rainbow dash." "The one you've been having a hard time making friends with." "Ya." Sunset said still a little sad that she didn't stay. "Well cheer up kiddo." Tempest said comforting Sunset, "The fact that she came here is a good sign. So don't give up yet." " I know. I'm not ready to give up yet. " Sunset and Tempest got the drinks in the house and the party continued for a while longer before... "Alright everyone come into the living room, " announced Tempest "The moment we been waiting for us finally here." Once everyone was together with Sunset, Luna and Tempest next to each other in the couch with Sunset in the middle. Tempest pulls out a vanilla folder and passes it to Sunset. "In here are the guardianship papers. All you have to do is sign your name on the dotted line next to your name on the last page." "Is it alright if I read them first? " She asks as she takes the papers out. "Of course. " Sunset begins to read it and she realized something was wrong. She re-read the papers just to be sure and sure enuff there was something missing in them. Sunset sets the papers down. "I can't sign this." "What!?" Everyone was shocked except for Luna and Tempest. Luna worryingly asked," Sunset did you change your mind? Did we do something wrong?" Luna was trying hard not to start crying. Sunset notices and quickly clarify her reason. "No. There's just something missing in the papers." "Oh, well if that's the case I can fix it later. Just show me where the mistake is." "Well right here where it list guardians. It only has Lunas name listed. You didn't to add your name Tempest." "Well that's..." Tempest was speechless as she realized what Sunset was saying. "Wait... You want me to be your guardian too?" "Ya." Sunset explained, "I mean this is your home too. And you've been looking out for me too. Making our meals and making sure I have something to eat at school. Taking me to DMV to get my id card and promising to teach me to drive. You even started to calling me kiddo. I just assumed you were going to be my guardian too. Was I wrong?" Now Tempest was on the verge of crying, "It's just when we set out to do this, it was for you and Luna. I never thought about add myself to the equation." She looks at Sunset and smiles as tears began to crawled down her face. " But if that's what you want kiddo, then I would be honored to be your guardian too. What do you think Luna? " I" think that would be wonderful. " said Luna as happy tears crawled down her face too. Sunset crys with them and everyone else smiles and gets a little teary eyed too. After a moment Tempest wipes away her tears, " well I can add an amendment to the papers later, but for the sake of ceremony let's sign these papers. " They sign the papers as everyone cheered. Sunset shed tears of happiness now that she officially had a new family and a place to call home.