> Sparkling Harmony EQG: Agents of SMILE: Prologue
>  by Captain_Cosmos
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Episode 1: Rescue and Evac
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the dead of night, a young teenage girl with neon pink skin and black hair with purple accents was sitting at her desk in her room when her phone started ringing. She checked the caller, and accepted it.

“Go.”

“When is it right to turn the frown upside down?”

“It’s always the right time to SMILE.”

“Agent CG-08272020, we have a new mission for you.”

“Name it.”

“Agent 0069 is in trouble. Your old friends at FOWL caught them sneaking into one of their facilities, we need you to get them out.”

“If you’re sending me FOWL stepped up their game.”

“Exactly. We’re sending you some new toys of our own, which your AI companion will tell you how to use on the way. We’re also sending agents 546 and 547 as backup.”

“Copy that, We’ll get agent 0069 out of their predicament.”

“Upon extraction, set course immediately for headquarters.”

“Copy that. Agent CG-08272020 out.”





Sometime after, in an undisclosed location in the middle of nowhere, a young man with tan skin and black hair was trying to pick a lock on a door that would lead out of the small room that he had been trapped in after being caught. Gah. First mission in months and I’m caught. God I hope she isn’t called to get me out, otherwise I’ll never hear the end of it. The man thought as he continued his work.

After a few minutes, the man heard the sound of metal being cut. He looked up to the ceiling and saw what was obviously a laser cut through the metal in the vent, after making a complete square the vent disappeared, and a masked head appeared, looking down at the man. “When is it right to turn the frown upside down?” Asked the newcomer.

“It’s always the right time to SMILE.” The man responded with a sigh, recognizing the voice even if it was a little muffled. “So they DID send you.” He said.

“Along with agents 546 and 547, now if you’re done picking the lock let’s get out of here.” The masked arrival responded.

The man nodded and climbed the grated walls and hoisted himself up through the hole and into the air vent. “Where are agents 546 and 547?” He asked his ally.

“Recovering your gadgets and gizmos. As well as whatever it is you came here to get.” The ally responded as she called up a holographic map from her watch and started leading the man through the air duct.

The man glanced at the holo map and raised an eyebrow. “Since when did our watches have holographic projectors?” He asked.

“This is actually the prototype, I got some new toys that FOWL is gonna crap a brick over.” The girl responded.

At that moment, her watch sounded and another voice came through rhe girl’s earpiece. “Agent 546 reporting, we found agent 0069’s gear, now what is it he came here for?” The voice asked.

“What did you come here for?” The girl asked the man.

“SMILE received intel that FOWL was working on something disastrous. I was sent to locate and retrieve any and all intel in relation.” The man responded.

The girl nodded and relayed that to her teammate, who acknowledged and the signal was cut.

The man and the girl crawled through the air ducts, until they both heard the alarm go off, along with an intercom announcement. “All personnel, we have both an escaped prisoner and unauthorized access to FOWL files, find our prisoner and stop whoever is hacking into our system!”

“Agents 546 and 547 reporting, we might need a hand.” The girl heard through her earpiece.

“We’ll be right there. No agent left behind.” The girl responded. “Let’s bail them out agent 0069.

The man chuckled. “Just like old times.”

In a room full of computers, one of the other agents assigned to this mission, a cream skinned girl with blue and pink curly hair, grabbed a USB stick and pocketed it while her partner, a green skinned girl with lighter green hair, served as a lookout. “We really need to get Micro to teach us how to hack properly.” The green girl said.

“Might be for the best.” The cream skinned girl responded as they saw a group of hooded thugs storm into the room. Both girls took ready stances. “I could really use CG’s watch right now.” The cream skinned girl commented.

“Maybe SMILE will make it standard issue. Until then, let's show these guys what for.” The Green skinned girl responded as the thugs charged at them. Their fists clenched as they threw them, trying to score a hit on the two agents. The two agents however were well trained so they were easily able to avoid the blows and deliver painful strikes of their own. But there were still plenty of thugs in the room that were trying to take them down.

After a couple of minutes of the thugs trying to get a hit on the girls, and while some WERE contacting, the majority were not and were met with retaliation in the form of flipping over the shoulder, the girls still did not manage to clear the room. “Would be a good time for our backup to arrive.” The cream skinned girl responded.

“Ask and you shall receive.” The girl heard through her earpiece, before several small balls fell from the ceiling and struck every single thug in the room, stunning them in their place and making them collapse on the floor unconscious.

The green and cream skinned girls watched as their mission leader and the man they came to rescue dropped down from the ceiling and landed on the ground on their feet.

The cream skinned girl shook her head. “Man, why do you get all the cool gadgets CG?” She asked.

CG shrugged. “Guess SMILE just wants me to test drive them before they become standard issue.” She said.

The green skinned girl nodded. “You ok 0069?” She asked the man.

0069 nodded. “Yeah. Though I’m not gonna live this down am I.” He commented.

“Nope, now let’s get out of here.” CG responded.

Soon enough, all four SMILE agents made their way through several more thugs and out of the building. As they ran out of the building, 0069 looked around. “Hey, where’s our ride out of here?” He asked.

CG smirked as she called up a holographic HUD from her watch. She pressed a button and all four of them saw a car phase in, deactivating it’s cloak. “Right there 0069.” She said.

“I really hope your new toys become standard issue CG.” The green skinned girl commented.

“Maybe soon.” CG responded.

At that moment, they all saw lasers fly past them. They whirled their heads around to see several thugs aiming weapons at them. “Take cover!” The cream skinned girl ordered. All of them took cover behind the high tech car that the thugs kept shooting their lasers at.

After several shots, 0069 glanced up from behind the car. “We’re gonna need to fight fire with fire.” He said.

CG smiled as she once again called up her holo HUD. “How’s as good a time as any to test this car’s mobile armory feature. Flappy.” She said.

A computerized voice answered her. “This vehicle has weapons stored under the Sideview Mirror and in the pull out door handles. Those should be appropriate for this situation.” It said.

The four agents looked at each other, before CG pulled on the door handle, and it pulled out to reveal a drawer with a pistol in it. The green skinned girl pulled on the sideview mirror, and it lifted up to reveal a rack with three more pistols on it.

They each grabbed a pistol. “It’s official, you have the coolest car ever CG.” She said as they took up positions and started firing their OWN lasers back at the thugs.

“Courtesy of SMILE.” CG said as she aimed at the thugs. After lasers going back and forth for a while, all the thugs ended up stunned and unconscious on the ground. And then, silence.

0069 smiled after a moment and they began to put the weapons back in their spots. “Anyone else feel like we were just in a movie scene?” He asked.

The girls all chuckled as they climbed into the car after closing up the weapon compartments. “We always feel like that.” The green skinned girl said as the doors closed and CG started the engine.

“Yeah. Hey, thanks for getting me out of there Lyra and Bonbon, and you Sparkler.” 0069 said.

The girl in the driver’s seat pulled off her hood and replaced her goggles with her glasses, revealing the neon pink skinned, blue eyed counterpart of a certain non royal Alicorn from across the mirror. “Anytime Chase.” She told 0069 as she pressed a button and the car lifted off from the ground, its tires becoming thrusters and making it a hover car.

As the car was flown into the sky and away from the mission site, Bonbon took out the USB stick from her pocket. “So Chase, mind telling us what we just risked our necks for?” She asked as she gave the stick to Chase.

Chase took the stick in his hand. “Before I was caught, I caught a glimpse of FOWL’s plans, and while I can’t say for certain, I have reason to believe it’s connected to what’s been happening in Canterlot City these recent months.” Chase explained.

“You mean the magical incidents.” Lyra responded.

“Yes. Whatever FOWL is planning, they’re particularly interested in the magic coming from that city.” Chase responded.

“Sounds like you two back there might want to keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.” Sparkler told Lyra and Bonbon.

“Yeah.” Lyra responded.

“Think we should get the Main 7 involved?” Bonbon asked.

“Unless absolutely necessary, they stay out of this.” Chase responded without hesitation. “They have enough problems.”

Sparkler chuckled. “Such as the life of superheroes.” She said. “They live in one world, we live in another.”

“Ditto that.” Chase said as the car sped off towards Canterlot City.

To be continued…
> Episode 2: A New Beginning
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

SMILE HEADQUARTERS
CANTERLOT CITY
0000hrs

“I am quite disturbed to hear about FOWL’s sudden interest in the magic emanating from the city.” Said a middle aged man who paced back and forth in front of Sparkler and Chase, they had arrived at HQ after getting out of the FOWL facility.

“Yeah. From the reports I’ve been able to access coming out of the city, Magic in the wrong hands can be catastrophic.” Sparkler commented. “And in FOWL’s hands, I don’t even want to think of the devastation.” He added.

“Precisely why we’re assigning agents to keep an eye out on the ground. You did good Agent McCain.” The man said.

“Thank you Director Derrick.” Chase responded.

“Dismissed.” Derrick said. “Agent Medley, you stick around.”

Chase nodded and left Derrick’s office. Derrick then turned his attention to Sparkler. “And you did a nice job too, Agent. I trust the new hardware served well?” He asked.

“Oh they served well all right. Are you going to make them standard issue?” Sparkler asked.

“Provided you continue to run them through their paces. One successful mission does not constitute enough field data.” Derrick responded.

“Right. And the lab people want sufficient data before clearing a new toy for mass deployment.” Sparkler responded.

Derrick nodded. “Now, for the real reason I wanted you to stick around. In the two years since you’ve joined SMILE you’ve racked up quite an impressive success score. Some might say you’re one of, if not the best secret agent this world has ever seen.” He said.

“Well I wouldn’t go that far. I don’t have as much experience as agent McCain.” Sparkler responded.

“And yet you just rescued him from FOWL’s clutches. You are an exceptional agent and I remain as confident in my decision to recruit you as I was two years ago.” Derrick said.

“Thank you sir. I shall continue to do my best.” Sparkler responded.

“Good. In light of this disturbing discovery, and us needing our best on this case, I am reassigning you to Canterlot City.” Derrick announced.

“Director?” Sparkler asked, not sure if she heard right.

“I am reassigning you to Canterlot City. You will operate directly out of SMILE HQ and you will serve as one of our eyes and ears on the ground should any magical incidents involving FOWL take place.” Derrick explained.

Sparkler blinked, she was certain she would never be transferred out of Saddle Arabia…guess tonight was full of news. “New gadgets, new car, new city…huh.” She commented.

Derrick smiled as he pulled out a folder from his desk drawer and handed it to Sparkler. “This file contains more details of your new assignment. Your new roommate, everything needed to transfer you to Canterlot High, and a notice for your parents to sign.” He said. “I want you in Canterlot by next week. Understood?” Derrick asked.

Sparkler, taking the file, nodded. “Yes sir. You can count on me.” She said.

“Dismissed.” Derrick said.

Sparkler nodded and left the office. Smiling widely. After getting over the initial shock, she was excited to be transferred to working out of SMILE HQ.





Medley Residence
KiliHima Town
1030hrs the next day

Sparkler zipped up her suitcase and her dufflebag, she was in her room in her house in KiliHima Town in Saddle Arabia, about to leave for Canterlot City. “Ok.” She said. “Clothes, toiletry, glasses case, computer and other electronics, guitar…” At that moment, her phone rang. She glanced at the screen and bit her lip as she answered it. “Hey there Mark.” She said.

“Sparkler, Bradford just told me you were leaving?” Her friend Mark asked.

“Yeah. Parents are transferring me to Canterlot High in Equestria.” Sparkler responded.

“Why? Did you do something wrong?” Mark asked.

“Nope, they just think I would get a better education in Equestria.” Sparkler responded.

“Darn. When are you leaving?”

“I’m just about headed out the door now.”

“Hold tight for a few minutes, I’ll grab the crew and we’ll be right over. Can’t leave without doing our signature handshake.”

Sparkler chuckled. “See you in a few.” She said.

With that, the connection was cut. Sparkler smiled as she put her phone away. “Back to the checklist. Guitar, books, comics, new toys, am I forgetting anything?” She asked idly.

“Do you have your necklace and ring?” Asked a voice behind her. “As well as your SMILE parental approval? Signed by both me and your dad?”

Sparkler turned to see her parents. Her mother was holding a necklace with a heart with a music staff pendant on it in one hand, and a ring that bore a similar design on its face. Her father held the notice that Derrick had given Sparkler for her parents to sign. “Right. Those.” She said as she sighed. “I left my necklace and ring in the bathroom again didn’t I” She said.

Her mother chuckled as she walked up to Sparkler and put the necklace on her, while putting the ring on her right middle finger. “How are you going to manage to NOT lose these in Canterlot?” Her mother asked.

“I’ll think of something. It would really suck if I lost either of the only two things I had from…wherever I came from and whoever my birth parents are.” Sparkler responded. Indeed the two people standing before her weren’t her birth parents, but they adopted her when she was left on their doorstep as a baby, and when she turned ten, they told her as much. “Maybe one day I’ll find them.” She commented.

Her adopted father chuckled as he handed her the notice. “Maybe your new assignment in Canterlot will help you find your real family.” He said.

Sparkler nodded. “Yeah. So you guys are really ok with this?” She asked.

“Honey, we DID agree to let you be a secret agent, compared to all the insane stuff you deal with regularly, moving to a new city is tame.” Her mother responded.

“Yeah. I guess you’re right.” Sparkler responded. It had been a shock to be sure but when Derrick showed up at the house to tell her adopted parents that she was a secret agent, her parents not only approved but encouraged it.

“We always knew there was something special about you, from the moment we found you on our doorstep.” They had said that day.

After a moment, Sparkler’s thoughts returned to the present. “Alright, I guess I’m good to go.” She said. She pulled her mom into a hug. “I’m gonna miss you guys.” She said.

“We’ll miss you too sweetie. Just remember to eat healthy.” Her mother responded.

“Avoid danger when possible.” Her father said.

“And do try to be a normal teenager when possible.” Her mother said.

Sparkler nodded as she proceeded to hug her father. “I will.” She said.

After a moment of hugging, Sparkler grabbed her suitcase and dufflebag and walked out of the house down to where she had her new car parked. She loaded the bags into the trunk and closed it shut when she heard bicycle bells ringing, along with a familiar voice calling out to her. “Hey Sparks!”

Sparkler turned around, and smiled as she saw her friends from her now former school. Bradford, Mark, and Amber.

Her three friends stopped their bikes, dismounted, and ran up to her. “Hey Sparks.” Amber said. “Were you seriously planning on leaving without saying goodbye?” She asked.

Sparkler laughed. “Honestly it was kinda thrown at me so it may have slipped my mind.” She said.

That caused the four of them to chuckle. “Yeah you can get a bit scatterbrained sometimes.” Mark said.

Amber chuckled and glanced at what they assumed was Sparkler’s car, and her jaw dropped. “Oh my nachos. Sparkler is THIS your car?!” She exclaimed as she started running around the car, looking at every inch of it.

Sparkler chuckled and nodded. “Yeah. It’s brand new.” She said.

“Shut up!” Amber exclaimed. “You got a BRAND SPANKING NEW Pegasus Model 10X zoomer?!” She asked.

“Yeah.” Sparkler responded.

“This is basically it girl!” Amber said. “You can’t get anymore overkill for a car than this!”

Sparkler chuckled. “If you’re ever in Canterlot I’d be happy to give you a ride in it.” She said.

“I’ll hold you to that. Do you know how many people can only DREAM of owning a car like this?” Amber asked.

Sparkler chuckled and rolled her eyes. It was no secret Amber was a car geek. “Well, thanks for stopping by. But I should really be getting going now.” She said.

Her friends nodded and all held their fists out to her. “One more for the road?” Brad asked.

Sparkler smiled and raised her own fist and they all bumped them together, launching into a handshake. “Sparkler, Amber, Brad and Mark, shaking up KiliHima as a quartet!” They all chanted, before falling into a group hug. “Oh I’m gonna miss you guys. I’ll keep in touch.” Sparkler said.

“You better.” Brad said.

After a moment of hugging, they split apart and Sparkler nodded. “Alright, I’m off.” She said.

With that, she got into her car, started the engine, and drove off. Leaving her friends and parents behind.

As soon as she got out of sight of anyone, Sparkler pressed the button to activate her car’s flight mode and also engaged it’s cloaking device. She lifted off into the air and put the pedal to the medal, accelerating to full speed. “Next stop. Canterlot City.” She said. She turned to her dashboard. “And now that we’re at cruising altitude. Flappy?” She asked.

“What can I do for you Sparkler?” Asked her AI companion, who appeared as a parrot on her dashboard screen.

“Access SMILE’s Database, give me a run down of who’s assigned to keep a watch for magic.” She said.

“Of course Sparkler.” Flappy responded as several ID pictures came up on the screen. “Agents 546 and 547, known as Lyra Heartstrings and Sweetie Drops, the latter going by the alias Bonbon. Partners in every sense of the word, these two attend Canterlot High and are in regular contact with magic.” Flappy said.

“So they’ll know the lay of the land.” Sparkler responded.

“Precisely.” Flappy said. “Next up is Agent 02142022. Known as Autumn Apple. She’s a direct cousin to Applejack, identified by SMILE to embody the Geode of Honesty.” He explained.

“Autumn Apple, my new roommate.” Sparkler said.

“That affords you an avenue to more closely monitor Applejack and her friends.” Flappy said. “Finally, there is Agent 0069. Known as Chase McCain. He has gone undercover as a kindergarten teacher at Canterlot High.” He said.

“Might explain why he was caught. His undercover job made him rusty.” Sparkler joked.

“Be it as it may, he is the agent to go to for insider information regarding magical accidents. As the faculty at Canterlot High are made aware of all magical incidents as soon as possible.” Flappy said.

“Right.” Sparkler said. “Anyone else?”

“Other notable agents stationed in Canterlot, however not directly assigned to this case. Agent 3.14159, known as Microchip, and Agent 11252021, Night Mare. Microchip attends Canterlot High while Night Mare attends Crystal Prep. However Night Mare is the twin sister of Twilight Sparkle, identified to embody the Geode of Magic. Which makes her uniquely suited to keep an eye on the Geodes outside of school.” Flappy explained.

Sparkler chuckled. “Noted Flappy.” She said. “This should be interesting to say the least.” She commented.

“Indeed. Another note about your new roommate Autumn is her AI companion Bella.” Flappy said.

“How many AI companions are deployed Flappy?” Sparkler asked.

“So far only myself and Bella.” Flappy responded. “I wonder what’s taking so long for AI companions to become standard issue.”

“Aww. You’re getting lonely?” Sparkler asked.

“Can’t hurt to have friends.” Flappy responded.

Sparkler chuckled. “I’m sure Bella would love to be your friend.” She said as she flew the car through the sky, headed for a new adventure in Canterlot City.

To be continued…
> Episode 3: Making New Friends
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Highway 66
Canterlot City
1200hrs

Sparkler smiled as she drove along the highway towards Canterlot City, the capital of Equestria as a whole. The city was in view and she was excited. “There she is. Canterlot City.” She said.

“Founded and established 1000 years ago, Canterlot has stood as the Capital of Equestria for the entirety of the nation’s existence.” Flappy pointed out. “Population, 1,234,567 citizens. Current Mayor, Bradly Copperbottom—“

“Thanks Flappy.” Sparkler cut her AI off. “If I need random trivia facts I’ll be sure to tell you.” She said.

“Copy that Sparkler.” Flappy responded as Sparkler drove into the city. Growing up in a small town, Sparkler was dazzled by the tall buildings and the hustle and bustle of the city residents. Even if some of her previous missions took her to cities, it was more often than not that she was sent to the middle of nowhere. “I’m always amazed by the tall buildings.” Sparkler commented.

“Makes for some cinematic spy rooftop chases.” Flappy responded, to which Sparkler laughed.

“Yep. Sure hope there's gonna be some rooftop chases in this series.” Sparkler said with a chuckle.

A little drive through the city later, Sparkler pulled into the designated parking lot of her new home. An apartment building a few stories high. Nothing too special. “Hey Flappy?” Sparkler asked. “Confirm this is the right place.” She said.

“Confirmed. 45 Main Street avenue. Heart of Canterlot City.” Flappy responded.

“Great.” Sparkler responded. “Let’s meet Autumn.” She said as she got out of her car.

Not even ten seconds later, Sparkler heard the sound of a motorcycle approaching. She turned and saw a red motorcycle pull into the parking spot next to her.

The rider of the motorcycle shut down the engine, dismounted, and removed her helmet to let down flamey hair. “Grr. I swear traffic in this city doesn’t know road laws.” The girl complained with an eye roll.

“Yeah City Traffic is always worse than regular traffic isn’t it.” Sparkler responded with a chuckle.

The flame haired girl glanced around until she saw Sparkler, who was wearing a blue jacket over a purple shirt, and a dark blue skirt with a pink top layer stitched on, as well as black framed glasses. After a few blinks, the girl responded. “Yeah. Yeah it is.” She said. “Can’t say I ever seen you around here before.” She said. “You new here?” She asked.

“I am actually. Just moved here today.” Sparkler said as she held out her hand for a shake. “Sparkling Medley, Sparkler for short.” She said.

The flame hair girl smiled and shook Sparkler’s hand. “Sunset Shimmer. You moved to this apartment building?” She asked, gesturing to the building the parking lot was connected to.

“Yeah. Living with Autumn Apple. You know her?” Sparkler asked.

“She’s my neighbor across the hall.” Sunset responded. She gestured for the door and the two girls entered the building.

Sparkler smiled when Sunset said she and Autumn were neighbors. “So I guess that makes us neighbors now.” She said.

“Seems so.” Sunset said as they started up the stairs in the apartment building. “So where’d you move from?” Sunset asked.

“The middle of nowhere. Literally.” Sparkler responded with a laugh. “A place called KiliHima town in Saddle Arabia.” She responded seriously.

Sunset chuckled. “KiliHima town huh? Can’t say I ever heard of it.” She replied.

Sparkler laughed. “Of course you wouldn’t have heard of it. It’s the most remote, boring place on the planet.” She said.

“I’ll have to take your word for it.” Sunset responded with a chuckle.

They reached the second floor and Sunset smiled. “Well this is the floor.” She said as she gestured at the door closest to the staircase. “That’s your new roommate’s place. I’m across the hall. Need anything just holler.” She said as she walked towards her own apartment door.

“I’ll be sure to do that. It was nice to meet you Sunset.” Sparkler said.

“Nice to meet you too Sparkler. Welcome to Canterlot City.” Sunset responded as she walked through the door.

Sparkler smiled as she turned towards her own new apartment, and knocked on the door. Both because she had yet to obtain a key to it and because she didn’t want to be rude. It took all of five seconds for the door to open, revealing a light brown skinned girl with blonde hair, wearing a Stetson. Sparkler smiled. “Hello. Are you Autumn Apple?” She asked.

“I am.” Autumn responded. “When is it right to turn the frown upside down?” She asked.”

“It’s always the right time to SMILE.” Sparkler responded, making sure to say SMILE in the exact tone to let Autumn know she wasn’t a fake. It was SMILE’s most reliable method of rooting out enemy spies in their ranks.

Autumn nodded and stepped to the side to let Sparkler in. Once she closed the door, and pressed a button which activated a soundproofing device to make sure they couldn’t be heard, Autumn lost her cool. “Oh my god you’re really here!” She exclaimed. “You’re Sparkling Medley! The greatest secret agent this world has ever seen is MY new roommate!” She exclaimed excitedly.

Sparkler chuckled. “You sound like you had no idea it was me you’d be getting as a roommate.” She said.

“I think they forgot to mention WHO it was. But oh my god I am SO happy right now!” Autumn said happily.

Sparkler chuckled. She half expected this reaction. “Well I’m looking forward to rooming with you Autumn.” She said.

Autumn smiled with glee, before she frowned when she realized something. “Hey Sparkler, did you bring any bags with you?” She asked.

“I did. They’re in the car.” Sparkler responded. “Just wanted to come up and introduce myself first.” She said.

Autumn nodded. “Let’s go get your bags. Oh, and do you have an AI companion by any chance?” She asked.

“I do.” Sparkler responded. She raised her watch and tapped it’s face. “Flappy.” She said.

Her watch lit up and projected a small parrot. The parrot smiled at Autumn. “Greetings Agent Autumn.” Flappy said.

“Aww. So cute. Hello there Flappy.” Autumn responded. “I got an AI companion too.” She said. “Bella?” She asked.

A holo projection of a dog appeared on the floor. The dog smiled up at Sparkler. “Hello Agent Sparkler.” The dog responded. “I am Bella. Autumn’s AI companion.”

Flappy’s projection looked down to the ground and waved his wing at Bella’s projection. “Nice to meet you Bella.” He said.

“Bella, please give access to the apartment network to Flappy.” Autumn said.

“Certainly Autumn.” Bella responded. “Feel free to come onto the system whenever Flappy.” She told the parrot AI.

Flappy’s projection disappeared from Sparkler’s watch and reappeared next to Bella. On her back actually. “Acess achieved.” He said.

Autumn beamed. “Come on Sparks, let’s get your stuff moved in. Oh, uh, is it ok if I call you Sparks?” She asked Sparkler.

Sparkler chuckled as they walked out of the apartment and down the stairs. “Sure Autumn.” She said. This is going to be fun. She thought.

To be continued…
> Episode 4: Making new Discoveries
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Canterlot City
Canterlot Mall
August 15th 2022
1130hrs

Sparkler pulled her car into a parking space outside Canterlot Mall. She put the car in park and she and her new roommate Autumn got out of it. “So that’s the mall.” Sparkler said, looking at the massive building. “Biggest mall I’ve ever seen.” She commented.

“You’re in the capital of Equestria Sparks, of course it’s mall would be big.” Autumn responded as they walked into the mall. It was two days after Sparkler had moved to Canterlot and Autumn invited her to her lunch meetup with her cousin Applejack and her friends in the mall. Sparkler accepted because she wouldn’t say no to making new friends, and also because it afforded her the chance to meet the rest of the first line of defense against magical incidents, having already met Sunset because they were neighbors. They entered the mall and saw that it was a little busy. “Back to school rush.” Autumn commented.

“Some things never change no matter the place.” Sparkler responded as they walked through the mall. A couple of minutes later, Flappy piped up in Sparkler’s covert earpiece. “Hey Sparks, check out the video game shop.” He said.

Confused, Sparkler turned her head to see what was clearly a video game store, and her eyes widened when she saw the poster on the window. “Oh, my, stars!” She squealed in excitement. She broke off from Autumn and power walked over to the shop window to look at the poster “Look at this! New expansion for Star Wars The Old Republic next week, Lego Star Wars The Skywalker Saga coming in two weeks. Jedi Survivor coming in three weeks. Flappy I preordered the galactic edition for Lego Star Wars and the deluxe edition for Jedi Survivor right?” She asked.

“Indeed you did.” Flappy responded.

Sparkler smiled widely. “Good. God I can’t wait to get my hands on these.” She commented.

Autumn watched Sparkler go fangirl over the Star Wars gaming poster and chuckled. “I take it you like Star Wars?” She asked as she joined Sparkler.

Sparkler smiled as she adjusted her glasses. “Star Wars, Star Trek, Transformers, Marvel, DC comics, video games and comics in those franchises, if it’s geek or nerd related, I’m in those fandoms.” She explained. “Have you seen my digital games libraries?” She asked.

Autumn laughed. “Oh I think you’ll get along with Sunset and Fluttershy quite well. Both of them are gamers and Sunset particularly enjoys action packed games.” She said.

“Yeah that’s right.” They heard Sunset say. Sparkler and Autumn turned to see Sunset in her sushi restaurant uniform approach. “Hey Autumn, Sparkler.” She said.

“Hey Sunset.” Autumn responded.

“Hey Sunset.” Sparkler said.

“Howdy neighbors.” Sunset responded. She glanced at the poster and smiled. “Hm. New expansion for Star Wars The Old Republic. Looks like I know what I’ll be playing tonight.” She commented.

Sparkler whirled her head around to stare at Sunset. “You play SWTOR?” She asked.

“Yep.” Sunset responded. “Have for the past year now.”

“No way. I’m a HUGE nut for that game!” Sparkler responded.

Sunset chuckled. “We can walk and talk. Friends are waiting in the food court.” She said.

Autumn agreed, and the three of them walked together towards the food court. “A huge nut eh?” Sunset asked Sparkler.

“Oh you have NO idea Sunset.” Sparkler responded. “I’ve played the game ever since it came out in 2011.”

“11 years playing SWTOR. Wow.” Sunset said.

“Yep. But that actually wasn’t my first MMO.” Sparkler said.

Autumn watched as Sunset and Sparkler talked video games and other stuff and she couldn’t help but smile and shake her head. She had the feeling that Sparkler and Sunset were going to spend a lot of time together.

The three of them rode the escalator up to the food court. They didn’t even get 10 steps away when confetti cannons went off and blasted confetti into the air in front of Sparkler, who was caught off guard. “Whoa!” She took a step back to keep from FALLING on her back. Before she knew it, a pink skinned girl was in her face, smiling like a madwoman. “Hiya Autumn’s new roommate and Sunset’s new neighbor welcome to Canterlot City I’m Pinkie Pie are you going to start at Canterlot High ahhh this is so exciting!” The girl was going off a million miles a minute.

Sunset, who had taken her own step back, blinked her shock away and groaned. “Pinkie Pie! Let her get to the TABLE first!” She exclaimed.

The girl apparently named Pinkie Pie stopped bouncing in place and smiled at Sunset. “Ok Sunny!” She said before she bounced away to a table with other girls sitting at it.

Sparkler watched her go and blinked away her own shock. “Ok…that was something.” She said.

Autumn chuckled. “You ok Sparkler?” She asked.

“Yeah.” Sparkler responded.

“Sorry about that Sparks, we shoulda warned you about Pinkie.” Sunset said.

“No harm done.” Sparkler said, before her glasses’ HUD came up and showed her SMILE’s file on Pinkie Pie. Fortunately the HUD was hidden from outside view.

Sunset nodded and she and Autumn led her over to the table. “I promise you’ll get used to it. Pinkie can be…eccentric at times.” She said.

“Noted.” Sparkler responded.

Sunset nodded as they reached the table. She smiled as she turned to her friends. “Hey girls. What’s up?” She asked.

“Well we just watched Pinkie startle yer new neighbor.” A blonde haired girl replied. She turned to Autumn and Sparkler. “Hey there cos, that your new roommate?” She asked.

Autumn smiled and nodded. “That’s right AJ.” She said. “This is Sparkling Medley. My new roomie.” She introduced Sparkler.

Applejack tipped her Stetson to Sparkler. “Well howdy there Sparkling Medley. Nice to meetcha. I’m Autumn’s cousin Applejack.” She said. “Ya already know Sunset. This here is Rainbow Dash.”

“Yo.” The Rainbow haired girl said.

“Rarity.”

“Pleasure to meet you darling.” A purple haired girl said.

“Fluttershy.”

“Uhmm…Hi.” A light pink haired girl said.

“And the one who startled y’all is Pinkie Pie.” Applejack said.

“Hiya new friend!” Pinkie said.

Sparkler smiled and shook hands with Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow, and Pinkie, her glasses HUD bringing up each of SMILE’s files on the girls. “Nice to meet all of you.” She said. “You can just call me Sparkler.” She said as the three of them sat down.

Sunset nodded. “Is Twilight running late?” She asked her friends.

“Didn’t you get her text in the group chat?” Rarity asked. “She and her family are off on a vacation for the rest of the summer.” She explained.

“Huh. Must’ve missed that.” Sunset responded.

“Twilight?” Sparkler asked.

“Twilight Sparkle.” Rainbow responded. “Our resident egghead.” She added with a chuckle.

SMILE’s file on Twilight Sparkle appeared on her HUD for a minute before the HUD shut off completely. Sparkler smiled in the meantime. “Well it’s nice she’s going on a family vacation.” She said.

The rest of the table agreed. Fluttershy smiled. “So Sparkler, where do you come from?” She asked.

“Small town called KiliHima Town. In Saddle Arabia.” She said. “Literally, the most remote and boring place in the universe.” She said. Earning a round of chuckles from the whole table.

“Is that why you came all the way here to Canterlot City?” Applejack asked.

Sparkler laughed. “You could say that. Parents decided to transfer me to Canterlot High.” She said. “I’ve heard quite a bit about this place.” She said.

“Let me guess. Magical incidents?” Rainbow asked. “That usually makes the news first and foremost.”

“Yeah I think I heard something over my car radio about magical incidents being common around here.” Sparkler said.

“Y’all heard right.” Applejack replied. “But don’t fret. Y’all can usually get to safety pretty easily.” She added.

“Well that’s good.” She said

In the background, Sparkler could hear the mall’s music playing, and her ears caught a particular song that got her foot tapping. After a couple of beats, she started singing quietly, which gradually rose in volume.

🎶He pulls me in
Enough to keep
Me guessing.🎶

Her new friends glanced at her. “Sparkler?” Sunset asked.

Sparkler didn’t seem to hear them as she continued singing.

🎶Maybe I should stop
And start confessing
Confessing yeah!🎶

At that moment, Something happened that surprised the whole lot of them. Sparkler stood up and started dancing at the beat drop, that wasn’t anything outlandish, but what WAS outlandish, and downright unexpected in every sense of the word was Sparkler glowing, her appearance changing to make it look like she was made of crystals, and a transformation process that Sunset and her friends came to dub Ponying up.

Sparkler did not seem to notice as she continued what she was doing.

🎶Oh I’ve been shaking
I love it when you go crazy
You take all my inhibitions
Baby there’s nothing
Me back!

You take me places that
Tear up my reputation
Manipulate my decisions

Baby there’s nothing
holding me back!

there’s nothing
holding me back!

there’s nothing
holding me back!🎶

The song playing continued but Sparkler seemingly decided that was enough and ended her impromptu performance. Sparking applause and cheers from those who saw it. “Erm, sorry, just…felt the urge to sing along.” She addressed the table she was sitting at as she stopped dancing and turned back to see her new friends staring at her. After a moment, she raised an eyebrow. “What?”

“What?” Rainbow asked. “What do you mean what? Dude, do you KNOW what just happened?!” She asked. “While you were singing and dancing?”

“That was awesome by the way!” Pinkie quickly added.

Sparkler raised an eyebrow. She glanced at her arm, and at first she thought she knew what happened. “Oh, this. Yeah. This happens sometimes when I feel completely in sync with the beat. I’m not sure WHY I Crystalize whenever it happens but eh, I guess it’s cool.” She said.

Sunset blinked her shock away before speaking up. “Are wings, pony ears, and a ponytail part of that?” She asked.

Sparkler was confused again. She glanced behind her, and her eyes widened when she saw pink wings with gradient blue tips protruding from her back, as well as a ponytail in her hair. “Wha?” She asked as she touched the wings, sure enough, she could feel them. She heard throat clearing and turned to see Rarity holding up a handheld mirror to show her her head, and as she had been told, Sparkler saw pony ears.

Ten seconds later, Sparkler flowed again and this time her body returned completely to normal, her hair shortened back to its normal length, the wings disappeared, ears returned to normal and the crystalizing effect dissipated. Several thoughts were going around the table at that moment as everyone just processed what had happened. Sparkler’s mind was racing, she had crystalized plenty of times before, but never had wings, or pony ears, and she didn’t know how to react to that. Sunset and her friends were glancing at each other in disbelief. They all knew that Sparkler really did just pony up right in front of them, and they also knew that Sparkler probably didn’t even know what happened. And Autumn immediately thought to SMILE. Well, they’re gonna love this up at HQ. She thought.

After a moment, Fluttershy decided to break the silence. “T-that wasn’t supposed to happen, was it?” She asked Sparkler directly.

“Crystalizing, I can’t control it but when it happens it’s supposed to happen. But the wings, pony ears, and the pony tail?…That’s never happened before.” Sparkler responded. Trying her best not to panic. God I hope this isn’t anything bad. She thought.

Sunset blinked, before she spoke up. “Ok, there’s definitely something going on here. Sparkler do you have any plans this evening?” She asked.

“No?” Sparkler responded curiously.

“Good. Come over to my place later. We’ll have pizza, play some video games and we can talk about…whatever just happened.” Sunset responded.

Sparkler, sitting back down at the table, nodded. “Sounds like a plan.” She said.

“And in the meantime!” Pinkie said, pulling out some drinks from somewhere. “Let’s get you going on Canterlot’s greatest milkshakes!” She said.

“Double swirl cherry shakes! My favorite!” Rainbow said as they all took a cup.

“Sounds tasty.” She said.

Before she could drink however, she felt something land on her lap. she glanced down and saw a paper airplane sitting on her lap. Curious, she took the airplane and unfolded it. She recognized it immediately as a job application, but there was a sticky note attached to it. With a message on it. “What in the world?” She asked aloud.

“Sparkler?” Rarity asked.

Sparkler glanced at the sticky note and read aloud.

“If you’re looking for a part time job, you definitely have the voice and the moves to work at my new restaurant. Hope to see you for an interview…”

Sparkler stopped when she saw the signature on the sticky note. “No…way.” She said as she flipped the sticky note up to reveal the name of the restaurant on the application. “It…it…” She stammered. She whipped her head around until she saw it. There was indeed a new restaurant being worked on at the food court, and the name of the restaurant was. “Airwave’s Airwaves!” Sparkler exclaimed.

“Airwave?” Autumn asked. “As in that famous music artist?”

“Exactly Autumn!” Sparkler exclaimed, her excitement through the roof. “Oh my god I think Airwave just made a freaking JOB OFFER to me.” She said.

“Whoa. Sweet.” Rainbow said.

“He or someone he works with must’ve seen your little performance.” Sunset commented.

Sparkler nodded. “Anyone got a pen on them or SOMETHING?” She asked.

Applejack chuckled. “Ya might just need to wait till y’all get home.” She said.

After confirming with everyone that NO ONE had a pen on them. Sparkler reluctantly tucked the application away in her pocket. The shock of her recent crystallization forgotten. “This is the best day of my life.” She stated.

“Why’s that?” Fluttershy asked.

“I am a massive Airwave fan. The note said I had the voice to work at his new restaurant here. If it’s coming from him that’s how you know you’re good!” Sparkler explained.

“Ooh exciting.” Rarity responded.

“Oh you have NO idea Rarity.” Sparkler responded.





SMILE HQ
Canterlot City
August 15th 2022
1200hrs

At SMILE HQ, Director Derrick stared at his computer screen, looking at Sparkler as she crystalized, and ponied up, thanks to security footage brought to his attention by one of his monitor agents. “Well this is certainly interesting.” He commented as he tapped a hidden button on his desk and a secret compartment opened up. He reached in and pulled out a strange device. He tapped the device once and spoke into it. “Director Derrick here. I’m sending you something you might find interesting…Yeah it’s related to Sparkling Medley…yes she’s wearing her necklace and that ring. I’ll explain later. But right now have a look at this.” He said before he tapped the device again, pocketed it, and sent the security footage to an unknown destination. “Bringing her to Canterlot City, in direct contact with magic. We’ll see if that was the smartest idea.” He commented before getting back to his work.

To be continued…
> Episode 5: Secrets Revealed
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Canterlot City
August 16th 2022
2200hrs

Autumn and Sparkler sat on the roof of a building watching a taller building. They had equipment that let them see and hear their target. “Stakeout. One of the most boring missions ever.” Autumn commented.

Sparkler smiled and rolled her eyes. Derrick had assigned them to a stakeout to spy on a known FOWL facility right in Canterlot City. “Compared to what I usually do, I welcome the simpler assignments.” She said. “Plus, I always welcome the chance to get some dirt on the Fiendish Organization for World Larceny…still can’t believe they actually went with the name of the organization in Ducktales.” Sparkler commented. “It’s so cheesy.”

“Least it’s easy to remember.” Autumn responded with a chuckle. “So, how’d things go with Sunset last night? You didn’t really talk about it after the fact.” She asked.

“Mostly because I was still trying to process it all.” Sparkler responded. “I mean, yes, I was well aware of magic and the process of ponying up, but for it to happen to ME…yeah I wasn’t expecting that.” She said.

“So what happened last night?” Autumn asked.

“It started when I got there…” Sparkler started to tell her tale.





FLASHBACK

45 Main Street avenue
Heart of Canterlot City
August 15th 2022
1800hrs

“K Autumn I’ll see you later.” Sparkler said as she walked out the door of their apartment.

“Later Sparkler.” Autumn called out from inside.

Sparkler smiled and closed the door. After taking a deep breath, she walked across the hall and knocked on Sunset’s door. “Sunset. It’s Sparkler.” She called through the door.

Not five seconds later, the door opened and revealed a smiling Sunset. “Hey Sparkler. Come on in.” She said, letting Sparkler come inside.

Sparkler walked into Sunset’s apartment. “Hey Sunset, how’s it going?” She asked.

“It’s going. You?” Sunset asked.

“Tomorrow can’t get here fast enough. I have the chance to work at Airwave’s new restaurant!” Sparkler exclaimed excitedly. She had filled out the application as soon as she and Autumn got home, and she was planning to submit the application in the morning. Suffice to say, she was giddy.

Sunset chuckled. “Hope you get the job.” She said.

“I hope I do.” Sparkler responded.

Sunset nodded. “Alright, got Pizza on the table. Pepperoni topping.” She said.

“Love pepperoni pizza.” Sparkler responded as she and Sunset walked over to the table where a pepperoni pizza was sitting. Sunset smiled in relief, she was worried Sparkler wouldn’t like it.

They each grabbed a piece of pizza and sat down at the table. “So, you NEVER ponied up before?” Sunset asked Sparkler. “You’ve just crystalized?” She asked.

“Pony up? Do you mean the wings and stuff?” Sparkler asked.

“Yeah. Wings, Pony Tail, and pony ears.” Sunset responded.

Sparkler shook her head. “No, up until today I’ve just crystalized whenever I feel in sync with the beat. Again, I don’t know WHY it happens, but for one reason or another, it happens.” She said.

“And it’s happened for as long as you can remember?” Sunset asked.

“Yeah…yeah it’s been a thing for as long as I can remember.” Sparkler responded. “Is that bad?” She asked, suddenly getting the feeling Sunset wasn’t all that pleased with her in that moment.

“Not really.” Sunset responded. “I’m gonna level with you Sparks, until today my friends and I believed we were the only ones in this world, heck, even in this universe, who could pony up. To find out another one exists is…a bit unsettling to say the least.” She explained.

Sparkler nodded. “I can imagine it would. Are you afraid I’m secretly evil?” She asked.

“…The thought came to me.” Sunset admitted with a sigh. “It wasn’t my first thought, but it was A thought.” She said.

“Well, the only thing I can really say is that I’m not evil or anything. Just a normal teenage girl…Crystalization and apparent pony-up notwithstanding.” Sparkler responded with a chuckle.

Sunset stared at her for a moment, before smiling. “Alright, I’ll trust you. But you’ll forgive us if we air on the side of caution for now right?” She asked.

“Good call.” Sparkler responded.

At that moment, They both saw a strobing flash coming from the kitchen counter. They turned their heads and saw a book flashing. “What’s that?” Sparkler asked.

Sunset sighed as she got up out of her seat and walked over to the book. “A perfect segue to the other thing I wanted to talk to you about. I may have an idea as to where your Crystalizing power comes from…The same place where I myself come from.” Sunset said as she sat back down. “Has Autumn told you anything about the magic here? IE any specifics?” She asked Sparkler.

“She did mention that the magic around here centers around Canterlot High.” Sparkler responded. “Something about a statue.”

Sunset nodded. “That statue is actually a key part in all this.” She responded. “Now, I know what I’m about to say sounds crazy and completely out there, but…well I would hope that you are more believing since you know about the magical incidents around here.” She said as she opened the journal. “This is not a normal journal, it’s kinda like a phone, but it can only text…to its counterpart in another dimension.” She said.

“Another dimension?” Sparkler asked.

“Yep.” Sunset responded. “A dimension where there exists another version of our world, but there are no humans. Instead the Equestria in the other dimension is inhabited by magical talking pastel colored ponies.” Sunset said as she handed the open journal to Sparkler, who glanced at it and saw something she wasn’t expecting. She couldn’t be sure of course but she immediately recognized the pink wings with the gradient blue tips that were attached to a pony with a horn, and had the same blue eyes that she herself had. “Sunset?” She asked.

“That, Sparkler, is your pony counterpart.” Sunset responded.

“...Wow.” Sparkler responded. She could definitely see the resemblance. “Horn and wings…”

“Over in the other Eqeustria we call it being an Alicorn.” Sunset explained.

Sparkler looked at the picture, and then back at Sunset. “Sunset, are you saying you’re FROM this other Equestria?” She asked, her mind racing.

“Yep. Over there I’m a Unicorn.” Sunset explained.

“And you’re suggesting that my power to Crystalize could come from this world?” Sparkler asked.

“Smart girl.” Sunset said. “Your counterpart, as was recently learned, can also Crystalize. Over there it means that you come from a place called the Crystal Empire.” Sunset explained.

“Crystal Empire? You mean like Crystopolis here in this world?” Sparkler asked.

“Yeah. Like that.” Sunset responded. “And given that you yourself can Crystalize, it’s quite possible that somehow, the magic that comes from the Crystal Empire in the pony world came over here, and you picked it up.” She explained.

Sparkler blinked. Trying to process everything. “...Ok…This is pretty weird, not gonna lie.” She said.

“Oh you have no idea.” Sunset said. “For one thing the timeline doesn’t make sense since the Crystal Empire only reappeared 3 years ago in other Equestria.” She said as she took the journal back. “Unless you have some sort of memory disorder that prevents you from remembering stuff from three years ago.” Sunset suggested.

“No memory disorders here.” Sparkler said. “I remember one time I was ten and I crystalized while performing at a talent show.” She explained.

Sunset nodded. “Ok then there’s definitely a mystery here. I don’t suppose you could try to INTENTIONALLY crystalize right now? I’m wondering if being here in this city gave you a permanent upgrade.” She said.

“I tried that already. You can ask Autumn, I tried several times earlier to crystalize, but I just didn’t feel in sync with the beat since that moment at the mall.” Sparkler explained.

“Right.” Sunset said. She glanced at the journal. Quickly reading a message in it. “I’ve been in contact with a friend of mine in the Other Equestria, and…Oh…” Sunset trailed off when she read the message more closely. “Ahuh.” She said.

“What?” Sparkler asked.

“My friend just suggested something surprising…she suggested that I read your mind.” She said.

Sparkler blinked. “...What?” She asked.

“I have the ability to read minds, I can do stuff like search through memories and the like. My friend suggested that maybe whatever happened to you to give you the ability to Crystalize is buried in your memory.” Sunset explained.

Sparkler’s mind was racing, and Flappy, through her concealed earpiece, responded immediately to that suggestion. “DO NOT LET HER DO THAT!” He told her. Sparkler immediately understood where he was coming from, if she allowed Sunset to read her mind, there was a VERY high risk of Sunset finding out that Sparkler was an agent., A MAJOR national security risk.

And yet…despite that, Sparkler was ACTUALLY considering agreeing to Sunset reading her mind. I HAVE always wondered WHY I have the ability, WAY longer than I’ve been a SMILE agent…

At that moment, the light over the table went out, leaving them in near darkness. Sunset groaned. “Oh for the love of, I just fixed that thing last week!” She groaned. “Ugh. I’ll be right back Sparkler.” She said as she got up and left.

The NANOSECOND she was out of earshot, Sparkler spoke to Flappy. “Text mode.” She said.

Words started appearing on her glasses HUD.

Flappy: Sparkler you know darn well you can’t let her read your mind. It is a MAJOR national security risk!

Sparkler nodded, and used her eyes to type back.

Sparkler: I know, I know. But…Flappy, I have always wondered how I could Crystalize. This could very well be my only chance to find out.

Flappy: How are you going to deal with her knowing who you really are?

Sparkler: Worst Case, the Forget Me gas in my watch should take care of it.

Flappy: That is still a barely tested technology. Sparkler, are you absolutely, positively SURE about this.

Sparkler: I trust Sunset to keep it to herself. She DID just trust me to know where she really comes from, that’s probably not something she publicly advertises.

At that moment, the light above the table came back on, and soon, Sunset came back. “Sorry about that. Been having a problem with either the bulb or the breaker for a while now.” She said.

“Ugh. Don’t you just hate it when things go haywire?” Sparkler asked.

“Tell me about it.” Sunset responded. “Ahem, anyway, back to the whole mind reading thing. Up to you if you want to do it. I won’t pick your brain if you feel uncomfortable with me rooting around in your head.

Sparkler thought about it. And made up her mind. She knew the risk she was about to take, but her curiosity for learning more about her ability won out. “Sure. Yeah you can root around in my head.” Sparkler responded. “I trust you enough to give it a go.”

Sunset smiled. “Alright then. Just a warning, I might accidentally see something you otherwise wouldn’t want me to see. If there’s anything that you would rather me find out through your own words, cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye, I will not breathe a word of it to anyone without your approval.” She said. 

Sparkler was about to say something before they both heard an ominous forever. Sparkler glanced around. “What was that?” She asked.

“That was Pinkie saying forever. Part of the promise I just made. Basically it’s an unbreakable promise.” Sunset explained.

Sparkler gave her a perplexed look, before shrugging and reaching into her jacket pocket. “I’m gonna need you to take that ultra seriously because what I’m about to reveal to you is most definitely not something you can talk about to others.” She said before she placed a metal disc on the table. After doing one final look around to make sure no one else could see what was going on, she tapped the disc and it lit up to project a hologram.

Sunset’s eyes widened as a hologram appeared in front of her, and she saw what looked like an ID card. “Whoa.” She said.

“Remember how I said I was just a normal teenager?” Sparkler asked. “Yeah that’s not entirely true. Everything I’ve told you so far. My hobbies and whatnot, is the honest truth. I am a major nut for Star Wars and all that. But I’m also a secret agent, for the organization known as SMILE.” She explained. “What you might find in my head is memories of me on missions.” She said.

Sunset blinked as she listened to Sparkler, honestly she was not expecting Sparkler to say she was a secret agent, but after thinking about it being from another dimension entirely was still weirder, so she nodded. “Ok. That’s by far not the strangest thing you coulda said.” She said.

Sparkler nodded as she tapped the disc again and the holo Id badge went away. “You trusted me to know where you came from. No reason why I shouldn’t have that same trust towards you.” She said.

Sunset nodded. “Your trust is well placed. I promise I won’t breathe a word of this.” She said.

Sparkler smiled. “Thanks Sunset.” She said.

Sunset nodded as she held out her hand. “Anything else I should know?” She asked.

“You’ll probably see other agents working with me, PLEASE do not ask me anything about them. I’m already taking a MAJOR risk telling you about my own involvement.” Sparkler said.

“Roger that.” Sunset responded as Sparkler took her hand. With that, Sunset’s eyes glowed bright white as she entered Sparkler’s mind.





PRESENT

Canterlot City
August 16th 2022
2230hrs

“Wait. Wait wait wait wait wait, hang on. You TOLD Sunset that you’re a secret agent?!” Autumn asked, absolutely shocked that Sparkler of all people would give up something like that so willfully.

“I did.” Sparkler responded. “She trusted me enough to tell me where she really comes from, she deserves that same trust from me.” She reasoned.

“She’s trustworthy, I can agree with that.” Autumn responded. “But still, are you SURE it was the right call? You know the classic superhero tropes.” She said.

Sparkler sighed. “I sure hope it was. I really don’t want to use the Forget Me gas on her.” She said.

Autumn sighed. “Alright. So what happened after that?” She asked.

“Sunset didn’t find anything initially that coulda given me the Crystalization ability, but there are still a lot of memories to go through.” Sparkler responded. “And she’s reasonably confident that me coming here gave me the pony up upgrade.” She added.

“That makes sense.” Autumn responded.

“After that we played video games and had a good time.” Sparkler said. “I think we’ll be hanging out together often.”

“Of course you are.” Autumn responded.

At that moment, Sparkler saw a guy running the rooftops, rushing out of the FOWL building. “Oh, we got a runner.” She said. She put down the binoculars and raised her watch towards the building. “Let’s see what we can get from him.”

Autumn smiled as she pulled out a small grappling gun and aimed at the building. “Let’s swing.” She said as she pulled the trigger and shot a line which she used to swing to the building.

Sparkler shot a line of her own, and glanced behind her to look at the city around them. “Yeah. I think I’m definitely going to like it here.” She said as she followed Autumn’s actions and swung to the building.

To be continued Next Time…