> Sparkling Harmony EQG: Agents of SMILE: Operation Sundown > by Captain_Cosmos > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Episode 1: Demonic Interest > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot City October 30th 2022 0725hrs Sunset rode her motorcycle through Canterlot City on a bright Autumn Morning. She was on her way to school, and was in a very sour mood, because someone wouldn’t shut up. “Aww. Is someone in a sour mood?” Sunset rolled her eyes. “How the hay are you back? The elements of Harmony—“ “I have always been here Sunny, creeping in the back of your mind, WAITING for something I can draw from to become stronger. And your jealousy has been an excellent meal.” “Whatever it is you’re planning, it won’t work. My friends—“ “Are weak! All of you are powerless to stop me! I exceed even the full power of your magical Geodes, which coincidentally, I will possess yours when I take control from you!” “That will never happen. Once my friends know they’ll help me stop you.” "If you ever tell them.” Sunset groaned, when she heard another voice in her head, a voice she much preferred. “Don’t worry Sunset, I will keep her at bay for as long as you need me to.” “WHAT?! How are you here?!" “Like you I have always been here. I was just more towards the forefront of her mind.” “Grah! You cannot stop me! No one can!” Sunset smirked, her mood finally improving a little. “Good to have you around Daydream.” She said. “I will always be with you Sunset. That is a promise.” Unbeknownst to all three of them, FOWL was watching them. In a room full of screens, a man walked up beside another man. He saw what was on the screens. “Is that her?” He asked. “Yes. The orange flamey haired girl is the one.” His buddy responded. “Good. Send agents to nab her, a certain demon is itching to make an appearance I’m sure.” “Have the guys in the lab completed the required invention?” “Finished it last night. Operation Sundown is ready to begin. Hehehe.” Canterlot High Canterlot City October 30th 1200hrs After a morning full of classes at school, Sunset and her friends all met up in the cafeteria for lunch period. And the talk of the entire room was the next day’s Halloween Dance. “I can’t wait for the dance tomorrow!” Pinkie exclaimed excitedly. “It’s gonna be awesome.” Cheese said as he and Pinkie High fived. “What’s everyone going to go as?” Rarity asked. “Cheese and I are going as salt and pepper!” Pinkie responded. Discord smiled as he pulled Fluttershy close with one of his arms. “Flutters and I are going as ponies.” He said, to which Fluttershy giggled and nodded in confirmation. “Eh, ponies are ok. But Soarin and I are SO gonna win the best costumed duo contest with our true to life Daring Do costumes.” Rainbow said as she and Soarin fist bumped. Applejack chuckled and turned to Sparkler and Twilight. “How bout you two TwiSpark.” She said, calling them by the ship name the group had collectively agreed on. “You two going to coordinate costumes for the dance?” “Are you two even going for that matter?” Rarity asked. Twilight and Sparkler blushed and couldn’t help but giggle when AJ called them TwiSpark. “As a matter of fact.” Sparkler said as she pulled out two tickets from her jacket pocket. “Just got around to buying our tickets this morning.” She said. “Our first dance together. I’m so excited.” Twilight said. “Have you guys figured out a costume idea?” Sunset asked. “We aren’t telling.” Sparkler said. “It’s a surprise.” “Oh come on!” Rainbow said. “The rest of us shared our themes.” “Sorry Rainbow.” Twilight said. “You’ll just have to wait and see.” Rainbow rolled her eyes while Sparkler turned to Sunset. “How bout you?” She asked. “What’re you going as neighbor?” “You’ll be going as nothing, because I will be in control. Mwahaha!” “Eh, I think I’ll go as a Starfleet officer. Discovery pre TOS era.” Sunset said. “Ooh. That’s cool.” Sparkler responded. “Wait, Discovery? Isn’t that the one everyone hates?” Twilight asked. “They don’t know what they’re talking about!” Sparkler and Sunset exclaimed at once. “The only people who hate modern Star Trek are one of two things, or both. They are either internet trolls who have nothing better to do with their lives.” Sunset said. “Or they’re fans of the original runs of Star Trek that can’t accept anything new just because “it’s not old trek”. So it’s not Star Trek that’s the problem, it’s the viewers. Plain and simple.” Sparkler said. “Any TRUE fan of the franchise can see that they are doing great things with Star Trek right now.” “And Star Wars for that matter. I swear to god every time I see someone hating on the new Star Wars for having a female lead or whatever, I want to scream into a pillow because they’re making it out to be bad when it’s anything but. At worst, it’s entertaining media.” Sunset said. “AT WORST!” She exclaimed. She noticed that everyone around her was staring at her. She cleared her throat. “Ahem, sorry. Just get passionate about some things.” “Oh, have you been watching Andor?” Sparkler asked Sunset. “Not yet. Waiting for the whole series to drop so I can binge it.” Sunset said. And just like that, Sparkler and Sunset got into their own little conversation about science fiction and all that. With Twilight nerding out with them at some points. Everyone else at their table just chuckled. “This week on the SunSpark Sci-Fi Show.” Rainbow joked. “Now that I think about it, I do wonder if Sparkler really would have fallen for Sunset eventually if Twilight hadn’t come along.” Rarity mused. “They have just as much in common as Sparkler and Twilight. “And Sunny and Twily have a lot of things in common, for real guys, we should totally get the three of them together in a three way relationship.” Pinkie whispered. “How would we go about doing that?” Discord asked. “Maybe the Halloween Dance?” Soarin asked. The rest of the group started their own little conversation, in whispers so that Twilight, Sparkler and Sunset wouldn’t hear. And while Sunset was enjoying the conversation, her inner self wasn’t. “Ugh. Star Trek? More like Star Trash.” “Don’t even start.” Canterlot City October 30th 2022 1725hrs Several hours later, after school, Sunset decided to go for a walk after making sure her motorcycle was back at her apartment building. Unbeknownst to her, a pair of FOWL agents were watching her. After a few moments, they decided to follow her. Sunset Meanwhile was trying to think. It has been two days since she heard the demon in her head again, and during those two days she had been taunting Sunset at every chance and opportunity. And Sunset was getting real tired of it. “Just you wait Sunny. Come tomorrow, I will be in control, and nothing will stop me this time!” “Not as long as I’m here.” “I’m sorry but did you defeat me last time? No, you didn’t. And since that magical brat from our original Equestria isn’t here, who’s gonna stop me now?” Sunset groaned. “Oh for the love of horsecrap cut it out!” She exclaimed. “I swear to god you have got to be the most annoying, insufferable demon I’ve ever—“ “Hey! You there!” A male voice cut Sunset off. Sunset stopped in her tracks, turned to see who called out to her, and what she saw made her groan. She saw two hulking guys wearing Jackets which had what she now knew was the logo for the Fiendish Organization for World Larceny, the organization that tried to kidnap Sparkler. “Great. Just what I need right now.” She commented. “You’re Sunset Shimmer aren’t you.” One of the guys said. “And what if I am?” Sunset asked, crossing her arms. “You’re the girl that prevented us from nabbing Sparkling Medley. We don’t like when people mess with our plans.” The second guy said. “Yeah? Well I don’t like when some evil idiots try to ruin my friend’s date.” Sunset shot back. “Whatever you want with me, I ain’t interested so beat it.” She told the guys. “You’re coming with us young lady. One way or another.” With that, one of the guys quickly pulled out a laser blaster and aimed and fired at Sunset. Sunset attempted to dodge the shot, but the bolt was too fast and she was struck by it. She grunted as she fell to the ground, quickly losing consciousness. “Ugh…” was all she managed before she blacked out and succumbed to the stun of the laser shot. The two guys smirked as she picked her up off the ground and dragged her off. “Let’s get her to the boss.” One of the guys said as they disappeared into an alleyway, with no one with a clue about what just happened. Unknown location October 31st Time unknown Many hours after her kidnapping, Sunset would eventually awaken from the effects of the stun shot. “Ugh…” she groggily grumbled as she slowly opened her eyes. At first her vision was blurry and she couldn’t make out where she was, but when she tried to move, she found that she couldn’t. She tried harder to move as her vision cleared up, but she remained in place. “What the?” She looked around the thankfully lit room, and she saw what was keeping her from moving. Rope was wrapped around her waist and arms and she could feel her back pressed against a pole, it took all of three seconds to realize what was going on. “Are you kidding me right now?” She asked as she kept struggling with the rope, which held firm. “Grrr. Alright! Whoever the idiot was that left me here, you’re gonna regret this big time!” She shouted, aiming for someone to hear her. “Eventually someone is going to come for me!” At that moment, the door to her apparent cell opened, and Sunset saw a pair of people, one in a lab coat and the other in a fancy suit, walk in. One thing she could see that was consistent between the two was that they were both wearing FOWL badges. She couldn’t help but roll her eyes. “Ok before anything else. You guys REALLY need to think about NOT wearing your organization on every bit of clothing you have.” She said. “Not a good look.” She said snarkily. “And now that we got out of the way, WHEN I GET LOOSE YOU ARE GOING TO REGRET IT BIG TIME!” She growled at the guy in the suit. The guy in the suit chuckled. “Oh don’t hold your breath. You’ll be free to go very soon.” He said. “But before that, you have something that we want.” He told her. “And what might that be?” Sunset asked, momentarily glad that her geode couldn’t be removed by force. The scientist held up a picture for her to look at, and when she saw it, she froze. “This is your demon form isn’t it?” The scientist asked. Sunset’s mind suddenly started racing with why these guys were interested in Demon Shimmer, and every scenario she ran through was bad. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She lied. I gotta get out of here!! “Oh come on. They couldn’t even get my good side?” The scientist put down the photo and got out his phone, he showed Sunset the screen and she could see a video from the night she turned into Demon Shimmer. “This video was taken the night you turned into her. You see, Miss Shimmer, our goals align somewhat with your demon self’s goals and we believe we can mutually benefit from an arrangement with her.” The scientist explained. That narrowed down the possible scenarios in Sunset’s head, panic slowly creeping up within her as she struggled. “Hm. I think I can hear these guys out, if they can help me first.” “No! Bad Demon!” “Well…it’s not like you can reach her anyway. She was destroyed that night.” Sunset lied. The guy in the suit chuckled. “Oh Miss Shimmer. Our demons are more durable than we want them to be. Your demon self is in there somewhere, waiting to re-emerge. And we intend to help her out. “Oh. I think I like these guys.” Sunset really was panicking now, she couldn’t get out of the ropes, she didn’t even know where she was, she was trapped, and at the mercy of whatever these lunatics had in mind. “And how are you supposed to do that?” She asked. The scientist reached into his concealed holster and pulled out a pistol like device. “My newest invention, the akumatizer. Designed to turn people into their demonic selves.” He explained. “Oh NOW we’re talking baby! Come on nerd! Hit us with it!” “No!” Sunset was panting as she continued to struggle. “N-no! You can’t!” She exclaimed. “Oh but we can, and we will.” The guy in the suit said. “Professor?” He asked. The professor stepped back a bit, aimed the device at the struggling Sunset, and pulled the trigger. “The demon shall rise again.” He commented. Sunset stared down the laser in absolute terror and panic, hoping to the last possible second that it wouldn’t work, but it did, and the laser hit her squared in between the eyes. She hissed through her teeth as she could feel the laser boring into her mind, corrupting it. “No! Stop! You can’t do this!” She exclaimed. She could feel the demon getting stronger and stronger with every second. The demon within her was laughing maniacally. “Mwahahahaha! Yes! YES! I can feel it! The power surging through me is incredible!” “NOOOO!!!!” After only a couple of seconds, there was a sudden surge of power that discharged from Sunset, and a bright glow of light that forced the two FOWL guys to shield their eyes. A few seconds later, everything went quiet. The guys uncovered their eyes and looked around to see the cell in rough shape, but standing there, where they had placed the girl, stood someone not held by ropes. The guys smiled as the person opened their eyes, and gave off an evil laugh. “Mweheheheh. At last, I'm free. Mwahahahaha!”  To be continued… > Episode 2: Agent Sparkle I presume? > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unknown location October 31st, 2022 Unknown time Sundown Shimmer examined herself, in all her red skinned glory, she was smiling wickedly. “Finally. Oh it feels good to finally have a physical form again.” She said. “It must feel good indeed.” The guy in the FOWL suit said. Sundown turned to see the two guys that helped her. “And who might you two humans be?” She asked. The suit man chuckled. “I prefer to go by Anon, short for anonymous. And this right here is the professor.” He introduced them to her. Sundown smirked. “You two look like the kind of guys that went to the trouble of bringing me back because you want something from me.” She said, crossing her arms. “Oh I assure you. We share somewhat mutual desires.” Anon responded. “Oh? And what does FOWL want?” Sundown asked. “For the purposes of tonight? The elimination of a certain group of humans.” Anon said. The professor held up his phone for Sundown to see, it had a picture of the Spectacular Seven. “I assume you remember these girls?” He asked. Sundown scowled at the picture. “Ugh. Don’t remind me. They beat me last time.” She said. Then a realization dawned on her. “But without Sunset and her Geode they are powerless to stop me!” She smiled in delight. “Here’s our offer.” Anon told her. “You destroy them, and we’ll help you achieve whatever goals you have.” He said. “I assume world domination is one of them?” “Bleh. This planet interests me about as much as a cockroach.” Sundown responded. “I doubt you can help me achieve what I REALLY want.” “Try us.” The professor said. “FOWL’s resources are vast.” Sundown thought for a moment, before smiling. “How much do you know about magic?” She asked. 45 Main Street avenue Heart of Canterlot City October 31th 2022 1730hrs In hers and Autumn’s apartment, Sparkler smirked as she looked at herself in the mirror. “Sparkling Medley, you are one good looking secret agent.” She said. “Hey Sparkler.” Autumn poked her head in from the hall. “Almost time to go, you—Sparkler what are you wearing?” She asked. Sparkler smiled as she turned to Autumn, who she saw was wearing a bird costume. “Hey Autumn, like my costume?” She asked. Autumn got a good look at Sparkler and raised an eyebrow. “Sparkler, that's your mission outfit, with all your gadgets in plain sight.” She said. “Yes it is.” Sparkler said, smiling. “Sparkler, your mission outfit and gadgets are IN PLAIN SIGHT!” Autumn repeated. “Are you asking for your cover to be blown?” She asked. “And why would anyone suspect anything when everyone in the room is wearing a costume?” Sparkler asked. Autumn blinked, thought on Sparkler’s words, and smiled. “Clever girl.” She said. “So I take it Twilight's gonna be all Spied up too?” She asked. “Only, any gadgets she has on likely won’t be real.” Sparkler responded. “Nice.” Autumn said. Sparkler smiled, when her phone rang. She tapped her earpiece. “Go.” She said. “Hey Sparkler. You on your way?” Twilight asked. “Autumn and I will be headed out in a few minutes. You ready?” She asked. “Nearly, just gotta get a couple more pieces on.” Twilight responded. “Good. We’ll be there soon.” “Can’t wait.” Sparkler tapped the earpiece again to cut the connection. Autumn smiled. “Was that Twilight?” She asked as Sparkler walked out with her into the living room area. “Yeah.” Sparkler responded. “Told her we’d be there soon to pick her up.” “I suppose that means I’m in the back seat.” Autumn said. “Hope that’s ok.” Sparkler responded. “Oh no worries.” Autumn responded. “I like the backseat.” She said as they walked out the door. “Want me to head to the car while you get Sunset?” She asked. “Be down in a minute.” Sparkler responded. While Autumn walked down the stairs, Sparkler walked across the hall to Sunset’s door, she knocked on it a few times. “Sunset! You ready?” She called into the apartment. To her surprise, she got no answer. She raised an eyebrow as she knocked again. “Sunset?” She asked. Again, no response. “She’s supposed to be here…” Sparkler said under her breath. She whipped out her phone and tapped Sunset’s contact. After a few rings, she got an answering machine. “What up? You’ve reached Sunset Shimmer. Sorry I can’t answer your call right now. I’m either at work, asleep, or in class. Please leave a message and I’ll get back to you.” The recording said. After the obligatory beep, Sparkler spoke. “Hey Sunset, it’s Sparkler. You in there? Autumn and I are ready to go…hello? Sunset?” She asked, hoping she’d pick up mid message. When that failed, Sparkler hung up the phone. “Something’s up.” She said. “Her phone is in the apartment.” Flappy said. “She coulda been called into work in a hurry and forgot her phone.” He said. “True. She’s done it before, but didn’t she say she had the day off?” Sparkler asked. She tried turning the knob to get into the apartment, only to find the door locked. “Locked, and she doesn’t have a spare key as far as I know.” Sparkler said. Deciding to investigate something, Sparkler rushed down the stairs and out the door to the parking lot. Autumn saw her come out, but without Sunset. “Where’s Sunset?” She asked. Sparkler shrugged. “I don’t know.” She said. “She didn’t answer when I knocked, and she didn’t pick up her phone.” She said. “And her phone’s in her apartment.” She added. “Maybe she’s asleep?” Autumn asked. “She’s a light sleeper so I woulda woken her up.” Sparkler responded. She looked over and saw Sunset’s bike parked in the spot next to them. “And she can’t be at work if her bike’s here.” She said. “Maybe she was called in and she took the bus?” Autumn asked. “Maybe.” Sparkler responded. “Shall I access SMILE’s Geode Tracker?” Flappy asked. “Yeah.” Sparkler said. Flappy acknowledged, and after a few seconds, he spoke again. “Sunset is at the mall.” He reported. “So she is at work then.” Autumn responded. “Looks like it.” Sparkler said. “Still…my Sparkler sense is telling me things aren’t what they seem.” She said. “Maybe that’s just your paranoia getting to you.” Autumn said. “It’s nothing that hasn’t happened before.” “Yeah you’re right.” Sparkler said as Autumn got into the car. Something seems fishy here. Sparkler thought as she got into the driver’s seat and started the car. Sparkle Residence Outskirts of Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1745hrs “And…there. Perfect.” Twilight said as she looked at herself in the mirror. She wore a black spandex full bodysuit with a skirt over it. A belt to hold up the skirt, black biker gloves, and she wore a sash that when everything was combined, made her look like a secret agent. “How do I look Night-Mare?” She asked her sister. “You could fool someone into thinking you actually ARE a secret agent Twilight.” Night-Mare said. “It definitely is a good look for you.” Twilight beamed in delight. “Awesome. I can’t wait to see Sparkler’s secret agent costume.” She said. Night-Mare chuckled. Neither can I. She thought. She wouldn’t be surprised if Sparkler came around in her ACTUAL mission outfit. It would be the greatest costume ever. “So, have you and Sparkler decided on what song you were going to try to request for a slow dance?” She asked. “Well…not exactly.” Twilight admitted. “We’ll probably just wait for the first opportunity.” She said. “Just be sure to not step on her toes.” Night-Mare joked. “We don’t want to hear you two had a tumble. Ya know, like what you and I had at Shining’s and Cadence’s wedding.” She said. “Cut me some slack. He forgot to tell us until the day before. We barely had enough time to get dresses, much less teach me how to dance.” Twilight pouted. “But that won’t happen tonight. Sparkler and I had a very nice dance lesson on the roof of the school during our free period.” Night-Mare slapped her hand over her mouth, but that did nothing to silence her laughter. “Wait, you two actually pulled a High School Musical 3?” She asked. Twilight blushed. “…Maybe…” she admitted. “Oh PLEASE tell me she sang the song from that scene.” Night-Mare said. “Please tell me you guys went full blown Troy and Gabriella.” Twilight couldn’t help but blush like mad. “…She did…” She admitted, smiling sheepishly. Night-Mare couldn’t help but laugh. “Oh that is just adorable.” She said. Twilight blushed like mad. Right then, they both heard the familiar engine of the Sparkmobile. Twilight beamed. “They’re here!” She said in delight. “Don’t even think about going to her this time.” Night-Mare called after her as Twilight exited the room. “Remember mom and dad want a picture of the two of you in costume!” Twilight heard her as she descended the stairs, but didn’t go for the door this time. Shining Armor, her brother, smiled when he saw his younger sister. “Why hello there Agent Sparkle.” He joked. Twilight stopped when she saw her brother. “Shiny?” She asked. “I thought you were home with Cadence?” She asked. “And let another opportunity to meet your girlfriend go to waste? Hm. No, nope Sparkler and I are gonna have a nice little chat before she takes you anywhere.” Shining responded. “Shining don’t threaten her or anything.” Twilight said. “Night-Mare already took care of the obligatory sibling threat.” “It’s just gonna be a little refresher.” Shining responded. “Besides. I still would like to meet her.” He added. At that moment, there was a knock on the door. Shining got to the door first and opened it…only to see no one. “Uh…hello?” He asked. Looking around the porch. Twilight stood there, confused. “Where is she?” She asked. She felt a tap on her shoulder, she looked to her left, and saw nothing. But then, she felt a peck on the cheek from a soft pair of lips on her right side, followed by a whisper in her ear. “Miss. Sparkle. I dare say you are one gorgeous secret agent.” Whispered Sparkler. Twilight looked to her right to see her girlfriend standing right next to her, once her brain registered it she jumped a little. “Sparkler! Hi.” She said. Shining whirled his head around and saw a girl matching the description he was given of Sparkler. He glanced from the door to Sparkler several times. “What the…but…how did…” He stammered, trying to figure out how Sparkler snuck in without him noticing. Sparkler chuckled. “A girl never reveals her secrets. Officer Shining Armor I presume?” She asked, noting Shining was wearing a police branded shirt. Shining nodded after a moment. “Yeah…that’s me.” He said. “Sparkling Medley?” He asked. “That’s me.” Sparkler said as she and Shining shook hands. “Nice to finally meet you officer.” She said. “Nice to meet you too Sparkler.” Shining responded. “Should I be worried that you managed to do that?” He asked. Sparkler chuckled. “Don’t worry Shining, I promise you’ll never get a call saying I’m committing a crime.” Sparkler assured Shining. “I don’t hang with that crowd.” Shining nodded as he pulled her closer. “And you understand what happens if you break her heart?” He asked, in a quieter voice. “Yeah.” Sparkler responded. “I’ll take good care of her.” Shining nodded as he let her go. “Good.” He said. Twilight pulled Sparkler back to her side and hugged her, as if protectively from Shining while their parents walked into the living room. “Well well, don’t you two look sharp.” Mr. Sparkle said. Sparkler glanced to them and smiled and waved. “Hey Mr. And Mrs. Sparkle.” She said. “Sparkler, just call us Night Light and Velvet.” Velvet replied. “It’s clear even at this point you and Twilight are in it for the long run.” “That’s the plan anyway.” Twilight said without even thinking. “Now all we need is for Night-Mare to get a lover and the two of us can die happy.” Night Light said. “Working on it.” Night-Mare, who had come down the stairs, responded. “I do have my eyes on a certain someone.” “Who?” Shining asked. “Not saying until I know for sure they like me back.” Night-Mare said. That got a round of chuckles out of everyone. Twilight looked at her watch, seeing that she and Sparkler should get going. “Hey Sparkler, wanna head to the Dance now?” She asked. “Hold it.” Velvet said before Sparkler could say anything. She whipped out her phone. “Come on you two. Strike an action pose.” She said as she aimed the camera. Sparkler giggled as Twilight rolled her eyes. “You’re not gonna let us go until we do this are you.” She said. “All about documenting memories Twily.” Night Light responded. Twilight sighed in defeat and she and Sparkler took up mirroring combat ready stances back to back. “Oh that’s sweet! Smile!” Velvet said as she snapped the picture. “Perfect. Oh this is beautiful.” She said. Twilight nodded. “Ok if there’s nothing else, I’ll be home by curfew.” She said as she took Sparkler’s hand and led her to the door. “Have a good time Twily!” Shining called out as the two left the house. Night-Mare smirked as she glanced at Shining. “Now do you feel better?” She asked. “Much now that I’ve finally met her.” Shining responded. Outside, Twilight glanced at the picture her mom just sent to her phone. She couldn’t help but smile. “I never got to say it, but you look good in a jumpsuit Sparkler.” She said. “As do you. Seriously you could totally pass for a secret agent.” She said as she opened the passenger door for Twilight. “Not as good as you. If I didn’t know any better. I’d say those props were actually real.” Twilight commented, referring to Sparkler’s gadget sash. “Yeah. They’re good props.” Sparkler said. Dying a little inside each time she lied to Twilight. ‘I’m gonna have to tell her one of these days aren’t I.’ She thought. Twilight smiled as she climbed into the passenger’s seat. Autumn smirked. “Well you two took your sweet time.” She mused jokingly. Twilight chuckled. “Hey Autumn, hey Sun—wait where’s Sunset?” She asked, noticing through the rear view mirror that Sunset was missing. “She probably got called into work.” Autumn said as Sparkler got into the driver’s seat. “Yeah. We couldn’t reach her.” Sparkler said. “Called into work tonight? Aww that’s too bad.” Twilight said. “Yeah. Was really looking forward to seeing her Starfleet Discovery uniform.” Sparkler said as she put the car in gear and drove off, all three of the girls completely unaware of what was coming. To be continued… > Music Time with the Rainbooms 2 (Can I have this Dance) > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twilight raised an eyebrow as she climbed the stairs up to the roof of Canterlot High, she had gotten a text from Sparkler telling her to meet her up there. "I wonder why Sparkler wanted me to come up here?" She asked idly as she opened the door leading out onto the roof. She looked around and saw Sparkler standing there with Applejack, Rarity, and Octavia Melody, a violin player in the Canterlot High Orchestra. "What are you guys doing up here?" She asked. Applejack chuckled as Twilight approached them. "Sparkler wanted us to provide Musical Accompaniment." She said. "Musical Accompaniment? For what?" Twilight asked as she turned to her smiling girlfriend. "What's going on Sparkler?" She asked. Sparkler just took out her phone and showed her the screen, Twilight's face turned pale as she saw a video of an incident she had with Night-Mare during their brother's wedding reception, She and Night-Mare were slow dancing together and they tumbled because of Twilight's lack of ability to dance. "Night-Mare sent this to me, with the demand that I teach you how to dance before the Halloween Dance this weekend." Sparkler explained. “First off, wanna learn?” She asked. Twilight understood what Sparkler was asking and smiled. "I'd love to...But wait Night-Mare SENT that to you?" She asked. Sparkler chuckled as she pocketed the tickets. "Don't worry. I'll delete the video. Just needed it long enough for you to believe that Night-Mare played a hand in this." She said. Twilight nodded, breathing a sigh of relief. "So, what you put this together to teach me how to dance?" She asked. "You didn't have to go to all this you know." She said. "Maybe, but there's no reason NOT to do it when all parties involved happen to have a free period together." Rarity interjected. "Yeah. Thanks for helping us out guys." Sparkler said. "Not a problem Sparkler." Octavia responded. "I owed Rarity a favor after she stepped in for our pianist once." She said. Twilight chuckled. Of course Rarity had a hand in this. "Alright, what do we do?" She asked. Sparkler smiled as she nodded to the three musicians, signaling for them to start playing. The music started and Sparkler moved closer to Twilight as she started singing. Take my hand, take a breath Pull me close and take one step Keep your eyes locked to mine And let the music be your guide (Won't you promise me?) Now won't you promise me? That you'll never forget (We'll keep dancing) To keep dancing wherever we go next It's like catching lightning The chances of finding someone like you It's one in a million, the chances to feeling The way we do And with every step together We just keep on getting better So can I have this dance? Can I have this dance? Can I have this dance? "There you go. You're getting it." Sparkler said. "This is easier than I thought." Twilight commented. "Shall we go again?" Sparkler asked. Twilight smiled as she offered Sparkler her hand. Take my hand, I'll take the lead And every turn will be safe with me Don't be afraid, afraid to fall You know I'll catch you through it all (And you can't keep us apart) any amount of distance can't keep us apart (Cause my heart) Cause my heart is wherever you are It's like catching lightning The chances of finding someone like you It's one in a million, the chances to feeling The way we do And with every step together We just keep on getting better So can I have this dance? Can I have this dance? Can I have this dance? "Look at you, If I didn't already see the video of you and Night-Mare taking that tumble I would've thought people were exaggerating you not being able to dance." Sparkler said, smiling. "Maybe I had a good teacher today." Twilight responded slyly. Sparkler laughed as they continued dancing. Oh, no mountain's too high and no ocean's too wide Cause together or not, our dance won't stop Let it rain, let it pour, what we have is worth fighting for You know I believe that we were meant to be, yeah It's like catching lightning The chances of finding someone like you It's one in a million, the chances to feeling The way we do And with every step together We just keep on getting better So can I have this dance Can I have this dance? Can I have this dance? Can I have this dance? Can I have this dance? To be continued... > Episode 3: Halloween Spook > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unknown location October 31st, 2022 Unknown time “You can have this world for all I care. All I want is to rule my own homeworld in another dimension.” Sundown said. “And to access it, you need a portal.” Anon said. “I know exactly where it is and I KNOW it’s active. So really even if you knew as much as I did about magic, you are of no help to me.” Sundown said. “Oh really?” The professor asked. “Because I believe that a certain agency called SMILE would get a ping on you in a nanosecond.” “And why should I fear them? They’re only humans with no magic.” Sundown asked. “But they DO have some top notch agents that have been preparing for something like you.” Anon said. “Here’s our offer. FOWL will keep SMILE busy tonight, while you take take of these girls.” Within Sundown’s mind, Sunset growled as her nice alter ego Daydream Shimmer sheltered them both in a shield that kept out the horde of monsters that Sundown had created to go after them. “Grah. I swear to Faust when I take back control, those pinbrains are SO gonna get it!” She said. “I can’t believe they actually are siding with the demon!” “You did once.” Daydream responded. Sunset glared at her, and Daydream backtracked. “Sorry. Look, it’s gonna be ok Sunset. Your friends will be able to stop her.” She assured Sunset. “They won’t be able to blast her with the rainbow laser of Friendship since they don’t have my Geode.” Sunset countered. “So it’s gonna be even harder, if not imposssible, to—“ “YOU WILL NOT HURT A HAIR ON HER CUTE LITTLE HEAD! SPARKLING MEDLEY IS MINE AND MINE ALONE! I will destroy ANYONE and EVERYONE who dares talk to her!” They both heard Sundown scream at the Fowl Agents, which really set Sunset off. “Oh HAY no!” Sunset roared as she started pounding on the shield. “Stay away from my Sparkler you lowlife demon!” She screamed. “Sunset! Calm down.” Daydream said calmly as she approached Sunset. Sunset slammed her fist on the shield one more time, before she squeezed her eyes shut to try to stop the tears forming in her eyes. “This is all my fault.” She whispered. “What?” Daydream asked. “My fault. If I hadn’t been such a brat all that time ago, if I had just listened to Celestia, Sundown wouldn’t even exist, and now because of me my friends are in danger.” She said. “Especially Sparkler…” She added. At that moment, both of them noticed the ground shaking, and they looked up to see, through the receptors, that Sundown was on the move. And they both knew where she was going. “We need to find a way to take back control.” Daydream Shimmer said.  “Before she crashes the dance.” Sunset said. SMILE HQ Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1800hrs At SMILE HQ, a Command Information Center desk jockey was just doing his job and monitoring the situation when his screen, as well as every screen in the CIC, started blaring with alarms, causing everyone to panic. “What the?” They tried to find out what caused the alarms, and one of them gasped as they got out of their chair and raced through the room to Derrick’s office. “Sir! We have a FOWL situation!” They called out. FOWL had decided that they were gonna cause a lot of trouble today. Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1800hrs Unaware that FOWL was making a ruckus. Sparkler pulled the Sparkmobile into the school parking lot and pulled into an empty space. Once the vehicle came to a complete stop, three of its doors opened and let out Sparkler, Twilight, and Autumn. “Flappy sure picked a good Halloween themed playlist.” Twilight commented. Sparkler nodded. “Yeah. He sure did. Heheheh.” She chuckled, not all that enthused. Though she had gotten used to Flappy posing as a radio in front of Twilight, she still woulda preferred he DIDN’T talk at all. “Sparkler is the one who compiled the songs Ms. Sparkle. I merely arranged them in a playlist for the journey.” Flappy responded. “Alright see you later Flappy.” Sparkler said, closing the door before Flappy could respond. Sparkler then turned to her two costumed friends. “So, shall we?” She asked. “Yes we shall.” Twilight said as she locked arms with Sparkler. Autumn chuckled as she walked beside the happy couple towards the building. “You two actually have a real chance at winning the couples costume contest.” She commented. “Let’s see what the competition presents Autumn.” Sparkler said as they entered the building. They immediately made their way to the gym, where the actual dance was being held, and they opened the door to find the place decked out for the Halloween theme. Cobwebs, ghosts, scarecrows, pumpkins, it was really well done. “Wow. Pinkie outdid herself this time.” Autumn commented. “Well duh!” Pinkie dressed in a pepper container costume exclaimed as she popped out of nowhere. Twilight, Sparkler, and Autumn jumped back when Pinkie Appeared in front of them. “Gah. Pinkie! It may be Halloween but still!” Twilight exclaimed. “Oh come on Twily! Lighten up will ya?” Pinkie asked. “Ooh!” She said as she got a look at Sparkler and Twilight. “Secret agents Sparkler and Twilight. Looking good you two.” She winked at Sparkler, a silent reminder that she knew Sparkler was a real secret agent. Sparkler chuckled and shook her head. “You make a good pepper shaker, Pinkie.” She said. Pinkie smiled cutely and nodded. “Come on! We got a table already. Shane Sunset had to work.” She added as she dragged the three over to a table in the corner. Sparkler, Twilight and Autumn saw a pair of derring do Characters, a pair of ponies, and Cheese Sandwich as the salt to Pinkie’s pepper. There was also a robot farmer, and a vampire fashionista. Applejack was the first at the table to see Pinkie return with Sparkler Twilight and Autumn. She smiled. “Whew. Hey there you three. Nice costumes.” She said. That alerted everyone else to their arrival. Rarity smiled. “There you three are. Seriously, Sunset really needs to stop forgetting her phone.” She commented, Pinkie Pie having told them that Sunset had to work last minute. Discord nodded. “Yeah. Shame she’s not here. I wanted to see her costume.” He said. “Yeah. I was really looking forward to it.” Sparkler responded, trailing off as her thoughts went back to how odd it was. It’s weird. My Sparkler sense is going off like crazy, and yet it’s nothing new… “Sparkler?” Twilight asked, bringing Sparkler out of her thoughts. “Everything OK?” Rainbow asked. “Ya kinda spaced out there for a moment.” “Hm? Oh. Yeah. Yeah everything’s ok.” Sparkler said. Twilight couldn’t place it, but she got the sense something was going on with her girlfriend. “Is there something wrong?” Twilight asked. “What makes you think anything’s wrong?” Sparkler asked. “You got that look someone gets when they’re deep in thought.” Twilight responded. Sparkler opened her mouth to answer, but before she could, a new, thundering voice boomed through the building. “SPARKLING MEDLEY!” A voice boomed. Sparkler and her friends all turned just in time to see the doors to the gym completely blast off their hinges, and they all saw someone enter. Someone that made them all gasp in surprise. “No!” Applejack exclaimed. “It cannot be!” Rarity said. “What is SHE doing here?!” Rainbow exclaimed. Meanwhile Sparkler was singing a different tune. THAT’S why my Sparkler sense was going off! She thought as they all stared at a demon they all believed to be destroyed. “Sundown Shimmer!” Everyone named the demon. Sundown meanwhile was laughing maniacally as she looked around the gym. “MWAHAHAHAHA! Guess who’s back! And this time. NOTHING can stop me! MWAHAHAHAHA!” To be continued… > Episode 4: Operation Sundown PT 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1810hrs A lot of thoughts were running through everyone’s mind as they stared in disbelief that Sundown was back. The majority of the people in the gym were remembering the FIRST time Sundown made an appearance. The remaining main 7 were trying to figure out how Sundown coulda possibly returned, and Autumn and Sparkler, as well as fellow agents Lyra, Bonbon, Microchip, and McCain, who was a chaperone, were all thinking the same thing. This is bad. Very, VERY bad! Meanwhile, Sundown was laughing Maniacally. “Mwahahahaha! Oh it feels good to be back!” She said as she landed on her feet on the floor. “I do hope I was missed. Heheheh.” She chuckled, though NO ONE else laughed.  “Sunset Shimmer!” Boomed a commanding voice. Everyone turned to see Principal Celestia walking towards Sundown, clearly believing that it was actually Sunset and not the evil demon. “Sunset, if this is your idea of a practical joke, great. You got us. Now you can drop the—“ “SHUT UP!” Sundown cut Celestia off in a roar, and used her magic to knock Celestia back into the crowd. Everyone gasped while Sundown laughed. “Oh. This is no joke. Sunset is no longer in control. I am my own entity now! Mwahahaha!” Hearing that, Fluttershy gulped. “What are we going to do?” She asked meekly. “If what she said was true, we don’t have Sunset so we can’t Rainbow blast her like last time.” Applejack whispered. “Do we call Princess Twilight?” Rarity asked. Sparkler and Autumn sneaked a glance at each other, both coming to the conclusion that they may very well need to break out the Spy stuff to fight Sundown. Sundown meanwhile decided to cut to the chase. “Now! Before anything else, WHERE IS SPARKLING MEDLEY!” She growled. “She and I have business!” Twilight heard that and stepped in front of her protectively. Sparkler’s mind meanwhile raced. She wants me? I’m not the one who defeated her last time… “Why would you want Sparkling as Medley?” Piped up Bonbon, who was with Lyra on the dance floor. “She wasn’t here the last time you were defeated.” Sundown laughed. “Because I am going to do what my weak goody two shoes counterpart failed to do and seduce her, making her mine forever!” Sundown laughed. “And I WILL destroy that Twilight Sparkle for stealing her from us!” She added with a growl. Everyone heard a loud gasp, before a girl growling. “Back off Sundown! She’s mine!” Everyone heard Twilight growl at Sundown. Sundown turned around and saw exactly who she was looking for. Everyone at their table stared at Twilight, who glanced around, saw the expressions on their faces, and shrugged. “What? She wants my girlfriend. Can’t blame me for being just a tad possessive.” She said. “Yeah. But now she found you.” Rainbow pointed out. Sundown laughed as she rose into the air, hovering over the dance. “THERE you are! And now you’re mine!” Sundown growled as she released a shockwave of magic that swept through everyone. Sparkler and her friends watched as their fellow students’ and the faculty present’s eyes changed to solid glowing green, being completely hypnotized by Sundown. Leaving only Sparkler and the remaining main 7 unaffected. Sundown laughed. “And now my loyal zombies! Seize them!” She growled, pointing at Sparkler and her friends. Her zombies all turned to where their targets stood, and Rainbow, Fluttershy and Pinkie noticed their boyfriends were affected too. “Eep! Discord! What are you doing?” She asked as she backed away. Sparkler saw Autumn affected too, and glanced around and saw that Lyra, Bonbon, Microchip and Chase were as well. Crud. She thought. She was the only agent left. She glanced around to her friends, who were trying to keep away from the zombies while still trying to process what was happening, and her mind was made up. “Everyone be prepared to run!” She exclaimed as she grabbed a device from her sash. “What? Sparkler what do you—“ Twilight began before Sparkler threw down the sphere and it released a GIANT puff of smoke that filled the room. Twilight’s vision quickly filled with smoke and she couldn’t see anything. After a sec, she felt Sparkler grab her hand and pull her along. “RUN!” She called out. Rarity, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Applejack, and Pinkie heard her and started running, fortunately they found the exit and left the gym. Sundown growled and swept her hand, clearing all the smoke in no time. When she was able to see again, she saw that her prey had escaped. Sundown just smirked. “Run run run as fast as you can. You can’t escape me.” She said. She looked down at the Geode of Empathy. “With this Geode, I shall control all!” Soon, Sparkler peeked out the window of a closed and locked door. She didn’t see anyone coming, and sighed in relief as she sank back down and turned to Twilight and her friends, who all managed to meet up in the band room. “Ok, we’re clear.” She said. “Sparkler? Did you just use a smoke bomb?” Twilight asked. Wondering where Sparkler got that. “It was the only way we could get out of there.” Sparkler responded. Here it comes. Sparkler thought. She knew her charade was cracking now. “Where did you—“ Twilight started before being cut off by Rainbow. “We got bigger problems Twi. HOW is Sundown back?!” She asked frantically. “And HOW is she able to do what she just did?! She doesn’t have the magic crown from last time.” Applejack asked. “Uhm, I did notice that she was wearing Sunset’s geode.” Fluttershy commented. Everyone looked at her, and then at each other, all realizing the same thing. If Sundown had control of Sunset’s Geode, they were in more trouble than they realized. “Ok…so she has her geode. That brings up another question. How were we not affected?” Rarity asked. “Her hypnotizing shockwave hit us, but nothing happened.” “Did our own geodes protect us?” Pinkie asked. “I…think so? I mean nothing else explains how we’re not zombies right now.” Twilight. said. “Although that doesn’t explain why SPARKLER was unaffected.” She added as she glanced at her girlfriend. “You don’t have a Geode.” She said. “Yeah…it’s strange.” Sparkler said. Now that she thought about it, she should’ve been brainwashed, but she wasn’t. Applejack nodded. “Ok. So what are we going to do y’all?” She asked. “We’re gonna kick Sundown’s butt that’s what!” Pinkie responded enthusiastically. “Yeah. But HOW Pinks?” Rainbow asked. “We can’t laser her like last time.” She said. “We can’t just sit around though.” Fluttershy said. “Sunset needs us.” She said. “And everyone else.” Rarity said. “We cannot just let Sundown control the whole student body again.” “So what do—“ At that moment, Sparkler’s watch started ringing, and soon a male voice came through it. “Agent Medley! Do you copy? We’ve lost contact with four agents at Canterlot High. Come in Medley!” Said the voice of Derrick. Sparkler stiffened as the watch kept ringing. Fortunately Flappy muted the director after that, but while everyone else knew what that was all about, Twilight raised an eyebrow. “Sparkler? What was that?” She asked. Sparkler opened her mouth to say nothing, but before she could, Pinkie interrupted her. “Sparkler, you can’t hide anymore. We don’t have many options. We need SMILE.” She said. “SMILE?” Twilight asked. “That organization that’s kinda an open secret? Sparkler, what's she talking about?” She asked. Sparkler, at that moment, wanted to come clean, but something was preventing her. Something that she couldn’t control. Fear. She was scared. Scared that Sundown was unbeatable, scared that Twilight wouldn’t survive, and most of all, she was scared she’d lose Twilight forever for lying to her this whole time. Sparkler’s fear was clear as day in her expression, Twilight bit her lip, before smiling at Sparkler, a kind, genuine smile. “Sparkler, whatever it is, you can tell me. No matter what it is, I’m here to listen.” She assured Sparkler. That seemed to get through, and Sparkler sighed, her eyes glistening. “Let’s get through this first, and at the end of it all I’ll tell you everything. But please, understand that this isn’t how I wanted you to find out.” She said. She raised her watch and tapped it. Everyone watched as the watch projected a miniature man on the floor, a nicely dressed middle aged man. The man looked Directly at Sparkler. “Agent Medley. Thank goodness you answered. We just detected a MASSIVE magical spike at Canterlot High. What’s the situation?” He asked. “Director Derrick.” Sparkler said. “We have a code Sundown on our hands.” She reported. “What?!” Derrick responded, shocked. “Sundown Shimmer?! How?” He asked. “I don’t know sir. But she’s back. She brainwashed everyone at the school except for me and the remaining six Geodes of Harmony.” Sparkler explained. “Crud.” Derrick said. “That could not have come at a worse time. FOWL is causing a ruckus so we can’t send reinforcements to you.” He said. “I’m afraid you’re on your own.” “Understood sir. Don’t worry. We’ll find a way to stop her.” Sparkler said. FOWL. Of course it’s always FOWL. “Keep me posted on events as they unfold agent Medley. It’s SMILE time.” Derrick told Sparkler. “SMILE is go.” Sparkler responded. With that, Derrick disappeared, and Sparkler took a deep breath. “Flappy, SMILE me up. Tango Oscar 0963.” She said. “Activating mission gear.” Flappy responded. Everyone watched as Sparkker’s catsuit started glowing with blue stripes, and holographic display things appeared over both her forearms. A helmet also materialized on her head. Twilight watched in amazement, confusion, and realization as her girlfriend was kitted out. In that moment, she put the pieces together. “No…way.” She said. “You…you’re—“ “A secret agent…yes.” Sparkler responded. Twilight was at a loss for words. A million questions formed in her mind, but before she could ask, Sparkler spoke up. “Like I said. I’ll explain everything later but right now we have more immediate concerns.” She said. Agreeing with Sparkler, Twilight nodded. “Alright Sparks.” Rainbow said. “Now that you’re unrestricted. What juicy SMILE plans ya got?” She asked, rubbing her hands together expectantly. Sparkler chuckled. Rainbow could tell she was thinking of a plan. “First thing’s first we need to get everyone back to normal. Sadly though, SMILE doesn’t have any way of undoing brainwashing.” Sparkler said. Twilight listened, and her eyes widened as she remembered something. “Wait a minute.” She said. “I have something!” She exclaimed as she reached for her belt. “Huh?” Rainbow asked. Twilight unclipped a remote looking device from her belt and held it out. “Sunset told me about Sundown not long after I transferred to Canterlot High. One thing led to another and we started work on a device that would undo any brainwashing. ESPECIALLY Sundown’s.” She explained. Her friends stared at her in disbelief. “You had that on you this whole time?!” They all asked. “Yeah. Just in case.” Twilight said. “I never told anyone except for Sunset because I didn’t want it getting out and potentially getting stolen.” She said. “Are you sure this thing can get everyone back to normal darling?” Rarity asked. “I’m sure it will. We used Sunset’s Geode and set it to cancel out the Geode’s magic, which Sundown used just now to brainwash everyone.” Twilight said. “So we use that thing to free everyone and get them away from Sundown!” Pinkie said, thinking that she came up with the answer. “Unfortunately it only works on one person at a time with its transmission capabilities.” Twilight said. “Ugh! It’s gonna take all night!” Rainbow complained. Sparkler looked at the device, her mind racing, before she came up with an idea. “Then we don’t use it on everyone. Not initially.” She said. “Huh?” Applejack asked. “What’re you talking about?” She asked. “If we went for doing it one person at a time, Sundown is eventually going to catch on.” Sparkler said. “So we target specific people instead.” “Why would we target specific people?” Rainbow asked. “Because, there are more agents here.” Sparkler revealed. “Five more agents total. And one of them happens to know all of SMILE’S pet projects. If anyone knows if SMILE has something that can help us. It’s them.” She explained. “And then?” Fluttershy asked. “We work together to figure out a plan for stopping Sundown and freeing the rest of the brainwashing victims.” Sparkler responded. “Who did you have in mind?” Twilight asked. “Let’s just say…you’ve met them before.” Sparkler said. “Who’s ready to do some sneaking around?” Back in the gym, inside Sunset’s mind, Sundown was seeing through the eyes of her brainwashed zombies. “Grrr! Where ARE they! They could not have disappeared!” Sundown growled. Behind her, Daydream was still shielding herself and Sunset from the horde of monsters Sundown set on them. And Sunset was pacing back and forth, thinking. “There’s GOT to be a way to get out of here. This is MY mind for Pete’s sake! I should be god here!” She exclaimed in exasperation. “I swear to Faust that demon is SO gonna pay for this!” She growled. Daydream nodded, before gasped, suddenly wobbling over, tired. “Whoa!” She nearly fell over before Sunset caught her. “Daydream? What’s going on?” She asked. “I can feel my magic running out. I can’t keep this up much longer.” Daydream responded, they both saw a crack starting to form in the shield. “Please Sparkler…help.” Sunset whispered. She had hope that Sparkler was going to show up eventually, decked out in Spy Gear. In the halls of Canterlot High, zombified Lyra and Bonbon were walking down the hall, searching for that which their master desired. Behind them, Sparkler and Twilight peaked out from around a corner. Twilight raised an eyebrow. “They’re STILL together? I thought Sundown would’ve split them up?” She whispered. “Good news for us.” Sparkler whispered back. She primed a smoke grenade. “Ready on that hypno defryer?” Sparkler asked. Twilight smirked as she held up her device. “Do it Sparky.” She said. Sparkler nodded and rolled the grenade across the floor to Lyra and Bonbon. The grenade burst and enveloped Lyra and Bonbon in smoke. The smoke filled the hall as Sparkler and Twilight moved in. After a second, two bright flashes of light lit up the smoke. Elsewhere, the rest of the Geodes of Harmony searched for the targets that Sparkler assigned them. One by one, their targets were found and they managed to nab them and drag them back to the band room. They made sure to cover their eyes so that Sundown, on the off chance she could see through her minions, wouldn’t see where they were until it was too late. Once all of them were in the band room, three flashes of light in rapid succession could be seen through the windows, and Sundown? She definitely noticed five of her displays go blank. “The heck?” Sundown asked. “What’s going on?!” She asked, growling. Unaware that her day was about to get worse. To be continued… > Episode 5: Operation Sundown Pt 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1900hrs Autumn groaned as she awoke from a sudden sleep. “Ugh…” She fluttered her eyes open and looked around. “W-where am I?” She asked Inside the band room, Sparkler, Lyra, Bonbon, and the Rainbooms sat around waiting for the three apparent SMILE agents they had to knock out to awaken. Sparkler heard Autumn and looked to see them starting to wake up. “Autumn, Micro, Chase.” She said as she approached them. Chase shook his head and opened his eyes. “God I have a headache.” He said. He saw Sparkler, Lyra, and Bonbon approach, and he saw they were in their mission outfits. “Sparkler? What’s going on?” He asked. “Before that. We need to make sure.” Bonbon said. “All three of you. When is it right to turn the frown upside down?" Lyra asked. "It's always the right time to SMILE." Chase, Micro, and Autumn responded, making sure to put emphasis on SMILE. Sparkler, Lyra and Bonbon sighed in relief. “Thank goodness. It worked.” Lyra said. “Uh, what’s going on?” Micro asked. “Why did you have us do that?” “We had to make sure you were back to normal. SMILE is go.” Sparkler explained.  “Wait, we’re go?” Autumn asked. “What’s going on?” She asked. Chase was about to say something, before he noticed something behind Sparkler, he squinted his eyes and saw the Rainbooms. “Sparkler? You realize we’re not alone right?” He asked. Sparkler looked back to the Rainbooms, who had noticed the three had awakened, and she turned back to Chase. “They know we’re agents Chase.” She said. “The situation forced my hand.” Chase glanced at the Rainbooms, before whispering to Sparkler. “Can they be trusted?” He asked. “They can.” Sparkler responded. Chase nodded as he and the other two sat up. “Alright, so what’s going on?” He asked again. “Yeah. Last thing I remember is the dance.” Microchip said. Sparkler gestured for everyone to gather around as she tapped her watch to light it up. It projected an image of Sundown Shimmer. “Guys, we have a code Sundown. The demon is back.” She said. While Lyra and Bonbon were already told, Chase, Autumn, and Micro gasped. “Wait, Sundown?!” Micro asked. “She’s back?! How?!” Autumn asked. “We’re still trying to figure that one out.” Twilight responded. “By all accounts she SHOULDN’T be back.” “So what could have allowed her to return?” Fluttershy asked. “I mean SOMETHING has to have happened.” Rarity looked at the picture of Sundown, and was deep in thought. She said Sparkler would be…oh no…she… “Rarity?” Applejack asked. “You ok?” “…I may know where Sundown came from this time!” Rarity blurted out before she could stop it. Everyone around her stared in her direction. “What?” Rainbow asked. “You may know?” Rarity but her lip, and nodded. “Well don’t leave us hanging!” Pinkie said. “What do you think?” She asked. Rarity but her lip, she had Pinkie promised Sunset she wouldn’t say anything…but… “I…I pinkie promised Sunset I wouldn’t say it.” She said. Pinkie frowned. “Rarity, right now Sunset is in trouble. I normally do not condone breaking a Pinkie Promise but in this case, it must be done.” She said. “So spill it.” Rarity, hearing that, nodded and sighed. “I don’t know if you picked it up, but Sundown mentioned how she would make Sparkler hers.” She said. “I picked it up alright. And she’s not getting Sparkler.” Twilight said. “She’s mine.” She said, making Sparkler blush and smile sheepishly. “Yes. I know darling.” Rarity responded. “But it’s important to bring it up. I believe that Sundown may have re-emerged through Sunset’s Jealousy…of you two.” Rarity revealed. Sparkler and Twilight both raised eyebrows. Sunset had been jealous of them? “Are you saying she’s jealous because everyone is finding love but her?” Sparkler asked. “Partly.” Rarity said. “But there’s something else.” “What’s that?” Autumn asked. “Sunset’s jealous because she herself has a crush on Sparkler.” Rarity revealed. Sparkler and Twilight gasped. “She…has a crush on me?” Sparkler asked. “Why?” “You have so much in common with her. And there’s the fact that you present an incredible magical mystery. But I’m sure that’s not the main reason.” Rarity responded. Sparkler and Twilight looked at each other, unsure of what to say to that. Sparkler looked away as she blushed. As one typically would when they found someone had a crush on them. Chase saw that they were at a loss for words, and decided to move things along. “Ahem, well, it doesn’t really matter HOW Sundown returned.” He said. “What matters is putting her down for good this time.” He said. “There’s just one problem.” Rainbow said. “She has control of Sunset’s Geode and without it we can’t call on the rainbow laser of Friendship.” She said. “So, we need to find another way to stop her.” Sparkler said. She turned to Microchip, the guy that knew all of SMILE’S pet projects. “Micro. Does SMILE have anything that could help?” She asked. Micro thought for a moment. “Hm…well, I do have AN idea.” He said. “If the RLF is out of commission, the second best course of action would be to physically separate Sundown from Sunset. So at the very least we can use lethal force without endangering Sunset.” He said. “That sounds about right.” Lyra said. Micro tapped his watch and a hologram of a device appeared next to Sundown’s picture. “SMILE has been working on a device for a situation like this. We call it the de-evilizer. It’s meant to separate a person from their evil alter egos.” He explained. Twilight stared at the image in awe. “Wait, SMILE has been working on molecular separation?” She asked. “In the perfect world.” Micro said. “Four De-Evilizers placed in a square or rectangular pattern will create an area of effect Sonic emission that targets and extracts evil alter egos.” He said. “And you’re sure it will work?” Bonbon asked. “Like I said. We never tested it so we have no clue.” Microchip responded. “It’s the best option we have so far.” Sparkler said. “I knew you’d have an idea Micro.” She said. Micro blushed while Fluttershy nodded. “And what about the zombified people?” She asked. “We still need to free them.” Twilight nodded. “Ugh. If only I was able to increase the range and effectiveness of my hypno defryer.” She commented. Microchip nodded, before another idea popped into his head. “Actually, you can.” He said. “How can she do that?” Pinkie asked. “The Sparkmobile.” Micro responded. “It has a field generator that emits a shield around it for protection.” She said. Sparkler got where Micro was going and smiled. “If we can modify the generator to act as the barrel for the Hypno Defryer. We can use it to create a shockwave that will get all of Sundown’s hypnotizations in one felled swoop!” She said. Twilight’s jaw dropped. “Wait, the Sparkmobile can actually DO that?!” She asked. “Science later Twilight.” Rainbow told her. “Right now we have a demon to stop.” Twilight sighed in defeat while Sparkler nodded. “Right. Lyra, Bonbon, Chase, go with Micro to get those De-Evilizers. The rest of us will work on freeing the rest of the school.” She said. “How are you going to stop Sundown from just rehypnotizing everyone?” Chase asked. “Don’t worry Chase, we got this covered.” Sparkler said. Twilight eyed her girlfriend. “What are you up to Sparkler?” She asked. “Let’s just say when the Sparkmobile is armed and ready, Sundown’s gonna learn why it’s a bad idea to go against SMILE.” Sparkler responded. “For now. You wanted to take a closer look at the car, now’s your chance.” Twilight blinked…before smiling wildly. “Let’s do this.” She said. Pinkie pie pumped her fists. “Woohoo!” She said as she put her hand in the middle of the group. “SMILE Rainbooms!” She exclaimed. Everyone around her looked at her, and each other, before shrugging and placing their hands in the hand pile. “Smile and the Rainbooms are go!” To be continued… > Episode 6: Operation Sundown Pt 3 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1910hrs Sunset and Daydream watched the crack get bigger and bigger in the shield that protected them from Sundown’s horde. Sunset gulped. “I don’t suppose you got any tricks up your sleeve?” She asked Daydream, seeing as how she herself was apparently powerless in her own mind. “I’m giving everything I have to the shield. Even if I did, I can't risk lowering it to do anything else.” Daydream said. “So we’re cooked basically.” Sunset responded. “Unless a miracle happens.” Daydream said. As if in cue, a bright blue orb of light appeared within the shield, and while it formed into something else, it shot magic at the shield and much to sunset’s and Daydream’s shock, it actually fully repaired the shield. Sunset and Daydream watched as the orb formed into a girl, one Sunset recognized immediately. “S-Sparkler?” Sunset asked. The girl before them smiled. “I’m not the real Sparkler Sunset, rather I’m the representation of your love for her. Sundown had me stuck in a pit, but I escaped and came right here to help you.” She said. Sunset smiled and crashed into Manifestation Sparkler, hugging her tight. “Thank goodness you’re ok.” She said. Manifestation Sparkler smiled as she hugged Sunset back. “Like I was going to let down the one to bring me into existence.” She said. “Now.” She pulled away from Sunset. “What do you say we kick Sundown’s butt back to the dark corner she came from.” She said. “We can’t do much with this horde.” Sunset said. “Don’t worry Sunny.” Manifestation Sparkler responded. “Nothing the best secret agent the world has ever seen can’t handle.” Back in the real world, Pinkie popped her head out of a bush, glanced around to make sure the coast was clear, and smiled. “Coast is clear.” She whispered. Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity and Rainbow Dash popped out of the bush too and smiled when they saw the sports field. “Perfect.” Rainbow said. “Hopefully Sparkler’s distracting the zombies so we can set things up.” She said. “Given what we’ve seen so far.” Rarity responded. “I say we can trust her to make this plan work.” “We need to do our part Y’all, let’s go.” Applejack said. Everyone nodded and hopped out of the bush, AJ pulling out Pinkie’s drum set. Meanwhile, Sparkler, Twilight, and the SMILE Agents snuck their way through the halls until they reached the front door. Once they were outside, Sparkler nodded. “Right, get to SMILE HQ as fast as you can.” She told Chase. “Copy that Sparkler.” Chase responded as he, Lyra, Bonbon, and Microchip dashed for the parking lot. Twilight watched as they got into a car, and her jaw dropped when the car they got into started up and TRANSFORMED INTO A FLYING CAR! And took off away from the school. “Flying cars?!” She exclaimed. Sparkler placed a hand over her mouth and shushed her. “Quiet.” She said. “We need to be as silent as possible. For all we know a zombie could come at any moment.” She said as she gestured to the Sparkmobile. Twilight nodded as they raced to the car, while Autumn stayed back to keep watch. Sparkler opened the trunk and unfolded the inside of it to reveal a highly advanced computer. “I’ll reprogram the field generator, you hook up your device.” She told Twilight as she tapped at the keyboard until a hatch opened up in one of the…we’ll refer to as the flank of the car. Where the gas port would be. Twilight stared at the Sparkmobile, a lot of thoughts going through her mind. “So there IS more to this car then meets the eye!” She exclaimed in a hushed voice. “Yes.” Sparkler said. “I told you we’ll talk when this is done. Focus Twi.” She said. Twilight nodded and started pulling out cable from the insides of the car and started hooking them up to her Hypno defryer. The two worked in silence for a few minutes, until Twilight spoke up again. “I do have one question that I’d like answered now.” She told Sparkler. “What is it Twi?” Sparkler asked. Twilight sighed. It had been on her mind ever since Sparkler revealed herself as a secret agent. That single revelation called everything into question regarding her relationship with Sparkler. Was it all a hoax? Did she really love her? Or was it all SMILE. “Did SMILE have a hand in us getting together?” She asked Sparkler. “Am I just a mission to you?” That question stabbed Sparkler in the heart. She saw it coming from a mile away, and yet…It still hurt to know that she basically made their entire relationship questionable by telling Twilight the truth. Sparkler stopped what she was doing, walked to the side of the car Twilight was working from, and knelt down beside her. “The only thing SMILE did was transfer me here to begin with.” She told Twilight. “After that. It’s been all me.” She said. “From me asking you out to teaching you how to dance, to that kiss we shared in your lab. I may have lied about a few things. But cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye, I never, EVER lied about my feelings for you. They are as genuine and real as the stars in the sky are sparkly and bright.” She told her. Twilight studied Sparkker’s expression, and found no hint of her girlfriend being insincere. She smiled as her eyes glistened. “S-sorry.” She said as she looked away from Sparkler. “I shouldn’t have—“ “Twilight.” Sparkler cut Twilight off. “If ANYONE should be apologizing it’s me. I had permission to tell you for some time now, but I could never bring myself to. I couldn’t risk you getting caught in the crossfires of my world.” Sparkler said. “I can take care of myself…” Twilight said. “Trust me Twilight, the dangers I face make the dangers you face look like mere arguments over what movie to watch.” Sparkler said. “There are people out there. Dangerous people that would happily murder innocent people go get what they want. And if any of them found you…I would never be able to forgive myself if something happened to you. I love you too much to put you in danger…” Sparkler said. Twilight let out a soft gasp. Sparkler just said… “You…you just said it…” Twilight said. Sparkler sighed. “Yeah.” She said. “And it’s true. I love you Twilight. And the thought of losing you scares me more than any threat I’ve ever faced as a secret agent. So much that Sundown appearing might possibly have been the only way I would’ve ever been able to tell you what I am.” She explained. “I-I’m sorry Twilight.” She said, her eyes getting more wet. Twilight set down her device and pulled Sparkler in for a hug. “It’s ok Sparky.” She said. Sparkler felt Twilight’s arms around her and heard what she said. She glanced at her. “Y-You’re not mad?” She asked. “I could never be mad at you for wanting to protect me.” Twilight responded. “And…it’s actually kinda cool. Knowing I have an elite secret agent as my guardian Angel.” She said. Sparkler couldn’t help but giggle as she smiled. “I’ll always be here to protect you Twi. Whenever you need me.” She said. Twilight sighed in content as they stayed hugging for a minute. Until a thought came to her. “Y-you’re not gonna break up with me right?” She asked. Sparkler laughed in a hushed voice. “If ANYONE is ending this relationship it’s either going to be you, or my demise.” She said. “I may be scared as all heck that you now know my secret, but there’s no way I’m giving up the best thing that’s ever happened to me.” She said. Twilight smiled as she squeezed Sparkler lovingly. “Then I guess we’re stuck with each other forever then.” She said. “If that’s what is to be.” Sparkler said. She finally pulled back from the hug. “Let’s finish our job here, take down Sundown, and get Sunset back.” She said. Twilight nodded and the two got back to work. Both happier then ever. At that moment, Flappy decided to speak up. “Ahem. In case you were wondering, Ms. Sparkle. Sparkler has not lied when she said she DIYed a new sound system into the Sparkmobile. She really did do that.” He told her. Twilight chuckled at at. “So what are you really Flappy?” She asked. “I apologize Ms. Sparkle. But I must refrain from answering too many of your questions.” Flappy responded. “However everything I have told you so far has been true.” He added. Twilight smiled and shook her head. “Fair enough.” She said. Sparkler inwardly sighed in relief. Glad that now she didn’t need to hide anything anymore from Twilight. They continued to work until finally, Flappy reported that the device had been fully and successfully integrated into the Sparkmobile’s systems. Sparkler smiled. “Heheheh. And Sundown’s hypnotic reign comes crashing down with the touch of a button.” She commented. “Now all we need is for everyone to get to the field.” Twilight said. “Right. Flappy, go with Twilight to the field and lure everyone in for the trap.” Sparkler said. “What about you Sparkler?” Twilight asked. “Autumn and I are gonna go say hello to Sundown.” Sparkler responded. “WHAT?!” Twilight asked. “You’re joking.” “I’m not. Autumn and I will keep that demon busy long enough for you and the Rainbooms to free everyone.” Sparkler explained. “Sparkler, she’s a magical demon.” Twilight said. “And now she sees what happens when humanity bites back.” Sparkler responded. “Now, go.” She said. Twilight looked to the school, and then back to Sparkler, before she leaned in and kissed Sparkler. A kiss Sparkler returned. She pulled back after a few seconds. “Don’t die.” She said simply. “Something tells me if anyone’s gonna die it’s not gonna be me. You heard Sundown.” Sparkler commented. “I wish I didn’t.” Twilight responded. Sparkler nodded as she started walking towards the building. “I’ll see you soon Twi.” She said. “I love you Sparkler!” Twilight called after her. If Sparkler could finally say it why couldn’t she. Sparkler turned back and smiled at Twilight. “I love you too Twilight. See you on the other side.” She said. Twilight watched Sparkler and Autumn disappear into the building, and sighed. “Please make it back…” she whispered. “Ms. Sparkle. It’s go time.” Flappy said as he started up the car and began pulling away. Twilight nodded. “Right, let’s get to the field.” To be continued… > Episode 7: Operation Sundown Pt 4 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1930hrs Sundown growled in the Gym, clearly getting ticked off at this point. “Where ARE they! They should’ve been found by now!” She growled. “And why did five of my zombies drop off!” She said as she turned her head away from the door. Sparkler and Autumn poked their heads in from the door to the gym. Autumn glanced at Sparkler. “You and me VS a magical demon from across the dimensional barrier…you sure about this Sparkler?” She asked. “If nothing else we can distract her…and maybe even get that Geode away from her.” Sparkler responded. “Applejack once said the Geodes can’t be removed by force.” Autumn commented. “I got an idea for that.” Sparkler responded. She stepped out from her hiding place and walked into the gym. “Hey! Sundown!” She called out. Sundown’s eyes widened as she whirled around and saw Sparkler standing there. She smirked. “Well well well. If it isn’t the object of my deepest desires.” She said. Sparkler nodded. “So I’ve heard.” She said, using a hand behind her back to signal for Autumn to get behind Sundown for an ambush while she kept the demon talking. “Must say I never expected someone like you to actually fall for anyone. What made you decide I was the one?” She asked. Autumn couldn’t help but snicker as she slipped into the gym and stuck to the walls to avoid Sundown seeing her. Sundown smirked as she landed on her feet. “You’re funny, kind, caring, a superb gamer, and you have a nice juicy mystery surrounding you. Most of those I find vile and invidious but my goody two shoes self’s love for you seeped its way into me. And, well, a queen needs her knight in shining armor.” She said. Vile? Insidious? Oh the absolute IRONY! Sparkler thought as she smiled. “So that’s where Sunset’s feelings came from. I was told it was because we had so much in common.” She said. “And there’s one more reason that came about tonight.” Sundown said. “You, without having a Geode, resisted my brainwashing. That is intriguing.” She said. Sparkler shrugged. “I mean I can Crystalize and pony up without a Geode. At this point anything is possible with me.” She said. Sundown smirked. “I guess so.” She said. Inside the mind, Sunset and her two companions watched in horror as Sparkler actually seemed interested in Sundown’s advances. “No. No, no this is not happening.” Sunset said. “T-this is just a ploy for a secret plan or something. Yeah, Sparkler has something up her sleeve.” She said. “There is NO WAY in Tartarus she would be unfaithful to Twilight, let ALONE actually show interest in Sundown.” She said. “I hope you’re right Sunny.” Manifestation Sparkler responded. Back out in the real world. Sparkler’s mind was racing. If this actually works I am gonna laugh. She thought. “Ya know Sundown.” She said. “Yes Sparky?” Sundown asked slyly. “If I may see your Geode for just a minute, maybe touching it to my pendent will reveal the secrets we do desire.” Sparkler said. Not actually believing that Sundown… Sundown smirked as she took off her Geode and handed it to Sparkler. Much to the hidden shock of Sparkler and total shock of Autumn, who was now behind Sundown. “Do it.” Sundown said, smiling. “Oh I’ll do something alright. Autumn now!” She said. It happened too fast for Sundown to react. No sooner had Sparkler said that she felt a stunning blast to her back. With a soft Ugh. She fell to the ground, motionless. Sparkler and Autumn watched her fall, and looked at each other. Both of them in total shock that had actually worked. “Holy crap did that actually work?” Autumn asked. Sparkler glanced at the Geode Sundown just gave her, and couldn’t help but laugh as she pocketed the Geode. “Not gonna lie, I was totally expecting that to fail.” She said. At that moment, they both heard a growl as Sundown woke up and rose into the air. “YOU TRICKED ME!” She growled at Sparkler. Sparkler and Autumn backed away and took combat ready stances while Sundown made it clear she was furious. “Give me back that geode!” She growled. “Not a chance you psycho.” Sparkler responded. “Your reign of terror ends tonight.” Sundown roared and her hands glowed with magic. “You will PAY for this!” She said as she blasted magic at Sparkler and Autumn, who dodged out of the way. Autumn looked at Sparkler. “Least we got the Geode away.” She said. “Yeah.” Sparkler said as they dodged another magical shot from Sundown. “I hope the others made it to SMILE HQ by now.” She said as she produced a pair of glowing blue rods. “Let’s take her down a peg.” She sakd. Autumn nodded, raised her laser pistol set to stun, and blasted at Sundown while Sparkler charged right for Sundown. SMILE HQ Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1930hrs Microchip, Lyra, Bonbon, and Chase raced through the halls of SMILE HQ, headed right for the lab. “Anything we need to do with the De-evilizers before they activate Micro?” Chase asked. “Just need to set the countdown and then nothing will be able to stop it.” Micro responded. “Except for their destruction.” Bonbon commented. “Sundown’s gonna be too busy to notice them until it’s too late.” Micro responded as they reached a highly secured door. Micro began typing in codes and submitting to identity scans when they all heard a voice from behind. “Agents? What are you four doing here?” Asked Director Derrick. “We’re here for the De-Evilizers sir. We have a plan to stop Sundown.” Bonbon said. “Well, technically not STOP her but rather separate her from Sunset Shimmer so that should we need to, we can use lethal force against Sundown without endangering Sunset.” Micro corrected. “It’s a start.” Derrick responded, having been briefed on the plan. “What about agent Medley?” He asked. “She and Agent Autumn are engaging Sundown Directly.” Lyra responded. “While the Rainbooms are dealing with the zombies Sundown brainwashed.” Chase added. Derrick nodded. “If only FOWL stayed quiet tonight. We could spare—“ “Oh for the love of pizza!” Microchip exclaimed in exasperation. “We have a problem!” Everyone turned to see what he was talking about, and saw something missing from the vault. “You gotta be bleeping me right now.” Bonbon said as they stared inside a very EMPTY vault. Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1945hrs “Alright, you’re sure the field generator can reach the whole of the sports field from here Flappy?” Twilight asked. “I’m sure Ms. Sparkle. However it comes at the cost of me not being able to provide further assistance should it be needed, as the field would be extended further than it was ever intended.” Flappy responded. He had parked the Sparkmobile behind the stage that CHS had adjacent to the Sports field…for some reason. Hidden away as to lure the zombies into a false sense of security. Twilight bit her lip and nodded. “Then we better hope we don’t need your assistance after this.” She said as she stepped away from the car and rejoined her friends on stage. Rainbow saw her coming and smiled. “So Flappy’s all set?” She asked. “Yep. All set...” Twilight responded, trailing off. “Something wrong darling?” Rarity asked. Twilight sighed. “It’s Sparkler. I’m worried about her facing Sundown.” She said. “She’s got Autumn with her. So at the very least she’s not alone.” Applejack pointed out. “Still…I’m nervous. Especially with Sunset’s feelings also in play…” Twilight responded. “What? You afraid Sundown’s gonna seduce Sparkler?” Rainbow asked. “It could happen.” Twilight said, feeling guilty that her confidence in her girlfriend wasn’t higher. Rarity smiled and walked over to put a comforting arm over Twilight’s shoulder. “Don’t you worry Twilight. We already know Sundown can’t hypnotize her for some reason. And I’m sure she would NEVER fall for such an evil creature being of sound mind and body. It’s a pretty safe bet that you shall still have her when this is over.” She said. “And what about Sunset’s feelings for her? What’s there to be done with that?” Twilight asked. Rarity bit her lip. “Ahem, Well I would suggest the three of you talk it out…If only to ensure your friendship remains intact.” She said. “OR you three could try a date and see if you three are monogamous or not!” Pinkie Chimed in. “If none of you are then the three of you together would be awesome!” She said. Twilight, upon hearing Pinkie’s two cents, blushed like mad. “Ahem…Well…” She trailed off, thinking back to the week she met Sparkler. She was reasonably sure no one knew this, but at the time, she had been trying to figure out if she had a crush on SUNSET. She had been feeling SOMETHING for her for a while. And she felt she was on the verge of finding the answer when Sparkler showed up. Suffice to say, Sparkler completely replaced Sunset and she hadn’t thought about her strange feelings towards Sunset since. But with how tonight was going, it creeped back into her mind, and with Pinkie mentioning Monogamy, Twilight was actually beginning to question whether she was monogamous or not. Is it possible the three of us would be happy together? She didn’t have much time to think about it before she noticed Sparkler’s two SMILE drones, which Flappy revealed were the wings of the Sparkmobile spoilers, came back. Flappy had sent them to round up and lead the zombies out to the field. Everyone looked off to the distance and saw the zombie horde approaching. “Here comes the crowd.” Fluttershy said, gulping. Twilight took a deep breath, and nodded. “Alright girls, let’s rock.” She said as she grabbed a microphone. To be continued… > Episode 8: Operation Sundown Pt 5 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- SMILE HQ Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 2000hrs Microchip and his fellow agents raced down the halls of SMILE HQ, weaving in and out of returning agents from missions. “Do you think they started the process yet Micro?” Chase asked. “For the sake of everyone involved they BETTER not have started the cleaning process yet!” Micro responded as they came up to a door and unlocked it. After recovering from their shock that the vault tbe De-Evilizers were held in was empty, security logs showed them being removed for their routine cleaning, which was HORRIBLE timing. As soon as the door opened, Micro barged in and yelled at the top of his lungs. “Don’t start the cleaning process!” In the room he barged into, multiple scientists jumped at his outburst and barging in. “Microchip?” Asked one of the scientists. “What’s going on?” “We have a code Sundown going down. We need the De-Evilizers!” Micro responded as he quickly spotted the devices through a window and started unlocking the door to the room they were in. “But Micro, they’re due to be—“ one of the Scientists tried to say before being cut off by Micro. “An hour overdue won’t hurt them. We need them NOW!” Micro said as he opened the door. “Chase, Lyra, Bonbon, grab one and let’s get back to the school.” He said. Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 1950hrs Sparkler brought her glowing blue batons down and crashed them into Sundown’s manifested sword, engaging in a lock. Sundown growled. “Sparkler. Do you not see what you could gain from joining me?” She asked. “You could be queen of a whole world!” “And what makes you think I WANT that?” Sparkler asked as she pushed hard against the lock, trying to knock Sundown off balance. “There’s only one thing I want right now, and that’s your defeat!” She pushed even harder and knocked Sundown back, nearly making her fall. Autumn aimed at Sundown with her laser pistol again and fired, aiming to knock Sundown out. Sundown dodged and proceeded to charge at Autumn. “As for you. I will gladly destroy you!” She growled as she swung at Autumn, who kept dodging out of the way. “Not today Sunbutt.” Autumn said. With Sundown’s back turned on her, Sparkler took the chance and attacked from behind, managing to get one of her batons around Sundownms neck. She pulled hard against Sundown trying to push the baton away, trying to knock her out that way. “Gah! Sunset! I know you’re still in there!” She said, speaking directly to Sunset. “Any help you can provide would be appreciated!” She said. Sundown grabbed Sparkker’s arms and with surprising strength, threw her over her head and sent her flying into Autumn, sending them both to the ground. “Sunset May hear you. But she won’t help you!” Sundown growled at them. Sparkler and Autumn got to their feet, Autumn looked at Sparkler. “Any ideas?” She asked. “Just stay alive. Remember the plan.” Sparkler said. She and Autumn assumed combat stances and charged at Sundown again. In Sundown’s mind, Sunset calmed down from laughing for a whole five minutes. Suffice to say, she LOVED how Sparkler tricked Sundown. “Oh god. Just when I thought Sparkler couldn’t get anymore awesome. I freaking love that girl.” She said. Manifestation Sparkler chuckled. “She’s one smart cookie, that’s for sure.” She said. She nodded. “Right, everyone ready?” She asked. “Let’s do this.” Sunset responded. Manifestation Sparkler nodded and powered up her watch. “Ready…now Daydream!” She said as she aimed at the ground and a shockwave burst from it. Right at that time, Daydream lowered the shield and the shockwave slammed into the horde of monsters Sundown sent on them, clearing all of them away and leaving a direct path to Sundown. “Let’s knock that demon off the throne!” She exclaimed as the three of them gunned it for Sundown. “Daydream and I will keep her busy. You take back control Sunset.” She told them. “Copy that.” Sunset said. Back outside, Sparkler, Sundown, and Autumn continued their battle. Suffice to say, Sundown was doing fairly well against the two SMILE agents. No matter what they did, their opponent always recovered fast enough to retaliate. All the while, Sparkler was thinking What’s taking the Rainbooms so long? We should’ve heard music by now! The plan was for the Rainbooms to essentially sing the zombies back to normal, but that should’ve happened by now. I swear to god if they’re having problems… She thought as she swung at Sundown. Before it could connect, Sundown growled in agony, before shaking her head. “Ugh. God I hate—“ Sundown was interrupted when she was smacked across the face with Sparkler’s baton, which was already mid swing and too close to stop. “Ow! God that’s gonna hurt tomorrow!” The familiar voice of SUNSET SHIMMER cried out as she fell to her knees. Sparkler and Autumn jumped when they heard Sunset’s voice as opposed to Sundown’s. Sparkler, after recovering from her shock, immediately knelt down beside Sunset. “Sunset! Is that you? Oh my god I’m so sorry!” She said. Sunset nodded as she rubbed her cheek. “Don’t be. I knew what was gonna happen when I saw you two in mission gear.” She said. “Gah, I can feel her fighting back.” She said. feeling Sundown fight for control. “Don’t worry Sunset. We have a plan.” Autumn responded. At that moment, muffled music reached their ears. “W-what’s that?” Sunset asked. About time. Sparkler smiled. “That is Sundown’s zombie horde being turned back to normal.” She said. “And soon we’re gonna get that demon out of your head permanently.” She added. “Great.” Sunset responded, before she felt a splitting headache and she cried out accordingly. “Gah! She’s taking back control, run.” She told the agents. “What?” Autumn asked. “Run! Get out of here! I can’t keep her back!” Sunset told them as Sundown started taking back control. Sparkler stood back up, set her watch to fire a stun shot, and aimed at Sunset. “We’ll get you back Sunny. I promise.” She said before she fired a stun shot at Sunset. Knocking her out cold. With her out, Spadkler glanced at Autumn, before nodding. They both took off in a sprint out of the gym as Sundown awoke and let out a roar in rage. Sparkler pulled the geode out of her pocket and handed it to Autumn. “Take this and get to the field. I’ll lead her on a wild goose chase.” She said. “Are you sure?” Autumn asked as she took and pocket the geode. “Go!” Sparkler told Autumn as she glanced behind them and saw Sundown chasing after them. Autumn nodded and turned the corner. Sparkler turned another corner. She glanced behind her after a few seconds and saw Sundown chasing her. As she had predicted. Either she loves me that much, or she thinks I have the geode…oh who am I kidding. She came back BECAUSE of Sunset’s jealousy so it’s probably both. She thought as she ran. The rainbooms, after experiencing some technical difficulties, causing Rarity to use her diamond powers to shield them, rocked and rolled a performance for the crowd, drawing them in. Flappy monitored the situation through the drones and the millisecond every one of the zombies were within range, he activated the field generator and a massive shock wave generated from the Sparkmobile and swept through the crowd. As the shockwave hit them, the crowd was immediately dehypnotized and were returned to their normal selves. The resulting confusion over what happened only lasted for a couple of seconds before the Rainboom’s performance caught their attention and the beat got to them. By the end of the performance, the hypnotization was all out and the crowd cheered and applauded the performance. Autumn reached the field and smiled when she saw the crowd dehypnotized. “Excellent.” She said. She said. The rainbooms sighed in relief, glad that it had actually worked. Rainbow got on the mic. “Yeah. Thanks for the praise, but no time!” She said. “Everyone needs to get out of here now!” She yelled. “Sundown Shimmer is on the loose!” It took all of two seconds for that to sink in before the crowd gasped and ran. Those that could drive drove off and the rest just ran. All of them were screaming in panic. Twilight facepalmed and turned to Rainbow. “Did you really need to say it like that?” She asked. “Hey, needed to get all of them out quickly.” Rainbow responded. “Well, you certainly accomplished that.” Applejack said. Twilight nodded, before her eyes widened when she heard a voice in her head. A familiar voice. “Gah! Finally! I made it! God why did you have to make so many walls for me to break through?!” Asked the voice of MIDNIGHT SPARKLE. “No. No no no not you. Not now! We already have enough to deal with!” Twilight thought. She dared not speak it out loud. They already had enough to worry about that night. Several questions ran through her mind. She didn’t get to ask any of them to her inner demon since Autumn ran up to the stage. “I got good news everyone.” She said as she held up the Geode of Empathy. “We tricked Sundown into giving this up.” She said. Everyone gasped in surprise. “Whoa. How did you manage THAT?!” Rainbow asked as Autumn climbed onto the stage and they gathered around her. “Apparently she’ll do just about anything Sparkler tells her to. Sparkler turned Sundown’s feelings for her against her.” Autumn explained. Twilight completely forgot about Midnight being back too when she heard that. She smiled widely, proud of her girlfriend for being that clever. “Huh. What do you know. Sunset loving Sparkler actually came in handy here.” She commented. “Yeah. It was shocking that it actually worked.” Autumn said as she raised her watch. “Chase, Micro, the school’s been dehypnotized and we managed to get the Geode of Empathy away from Sundown. What’s your status?” She asked. “Leaving SMILE HQ now. ETA 5 minutes.” Micro responded. “And how long will we need to distract Sundown until they’re ready for action?” Autumn asked. “They require a four minute total activation process. Two to set up, two to charge up.” Micro responded. “Acknowledged. We’ll be waiting.” Autumn responded. She turned to the Rainbooms. “Ten minutes. In ten minutes, this will be over.” “Good.” Twilight responded. Suddenly, they all heard a roar, and all looked up to see a sight that terrified Twilight to her core, and terrified everyone else but not as much. Sundown and Sparkler were on the roof, and Sundown was dangling Sparkler over the edge by her throat. “Sparkler!” All of them cried out. To be continued… > Episode 9: Operation Sundown Pt 6 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 2000hrs Sparkler burst through the door leading to the roof. She kept running, until she had to stop to take a breather. Unfortunately she wouldn’t get that because Sundown came through the door after her. Sundown landed on the floor of the roof. Seething in anger and magic ablaze in her hands. “You can’t run forever you annoying little sweetheart.” Sweet biscuits this girl just won’t give up. Neither will I. Sparkler thought as she drew her glowing blue batons and assumed a combat stance. Sundown drew her sword. “You are out of options.” Sundown said. Sparkler shook her head. “There’s always another way for a secret agent.” She said, before Sundown charged and attacked her. Sparkler defended herself best she could, but while before she wasn’t as movable, Sundown was pushing her back this time. She blocked and parried attacks with her batons, until eventually, Sundown had pushed her back to the edge and knocked her batons out of her hands. Sparkler glanced behind her to see that she had no room left to move, before she felt her throat grabbed by Sundown, who lifted her into the air and actually OVER the edge of the roof. So she was dangling high above the ground. She heard her friends as Sundown growled at her. “It’s over agent Medley. Give me the geode or ELSE!” She said. From within the mind, Sunset, Manifestation Sparkler, and Daydream were kept busy by the monsters Sundown spawned, but Sunset saw what was going on. “No! Don’t you even think about it!” She growled at the demon as she fought harder. Back outside, Sparkler just smiled defiantly. “You wouldn’t dare. Given I was able to trick you, you love me too much.” She said. “Magic can do many things.” Sundown reminded her as she loosened her grip a tad, sending a message that Sparkler was about to take a dive. “Now, the geode if you please. You have nowhere to go.” She growled. Sparkler just smiled and readied her watch. “Oh Sundown, I just told you. For a secret agent, there’s ALWAYS another way.” She said before she aimed and blasted Sundown with a stun shot AGAIN. Sundown growled and let go of Sparkler as she stepped back. Letting Sparkler fall. Sparkler quickly tapped her belt buckle and activated a hidden jetpack grafted into her suit. The jetpack prevented her from becoming a pancake as it propelled her over to the stage and allowed her to land on her feet, completely and totally unharmed. Her friends watched all of this, while Autumn was quicker to come over her shock, everyone else, especially Twilight, stood there and stared at Sparkler in shock. Sparkler smiled. “Word of advice, NEVER tell a secret agent she’s out of options.” She commented. That snapped everyone out of their shock and Twilight pulled Sparkler into a tight hug. “Oh my god Sparky! You scared me half to death!” She exclaimed. “Sorry about that Twi.” Sparkler responded. She managed to pull away from Twilight and contacted Flappy. “Flappy, you there?” She asked. “Yes Sparkler. The field generator worked. But at the cost of frying everything. It’ll take a bit before the Sparkmobile will be usable again.” He said. “Mobile armory?” Sparkler asked. “Still accessible and ready. But that’s all.” Flappy responded. “Alright. Good work Flappy.” Sparkler said. She turned to her friends. “Autumn, how’re we doing on the cavalry?” “Should be here in 5 minutes.” Autumn responded. Sparkler nodded, before they all heard a roar and saw Sundown gunning it for them. Sparkler got all serious. “Autumn, get the heaviest blaster from the Sparkmobile you can. Rainbooms, I suggest you pony up.” She said as she started blasting at Sundown with her watch. Autumn nodded and dashed behind the stage while Applejack and her friends nodded. “Come on Y’all. Let’s do this.” She said. “Right!” The Rainbooms all said as they clutched their Geodes. After a second, they began to glow, as did the Rainbooms themselves. Their clothes changed to their Rainbow Power outfits and sprouted pony ears, pony tails for their hair, and for Rainbow, Fluttershy and Twilight, they sprouted wings. Transforming the group into their powered up forms. While that was going on, Sparkler continued to keep Sundown off track by blasting at her and making her dodge. She failed to notice that her pendant, which was determined to be connected to her own Crystal pony-up…somehow, started to glow. Even though there was no music to be in sync to. It would soon become clear that something was going down when Sparkler noticed her watch start to glow, before all of a sudden, it released an enormous beam of energy that slammed into Sundown and pushed her back against the wall of the school. Everyone saw it and while the watch stopped firing, everyone jumped. “What the?!” Sparkler asked. She looked at her watch. “The heck? That wasn’t supposed to happen?” She said, confused. “Whoa. You just wrecked Sundown Sparkler.” Rainbow said as she and the Rainbooms joined Sparkler on the field. “Yeah. What—Sparkler! Your pendant!” Twilight pointed out, seeing it glowing very bright. Sparkler finally looked down and saw her pendant glowing. “What the—“ before she could continue, the pendant started shooting a beam into the sky. The beam started to reshape itself, much to everyone’s astonishment. “Uh…Sparkler?” Fluttershy asked. “What’s that?” “Y-your guess is as good as mine Flutters.” Sparkler responded. What the crap? It’s never done that bef—oh my god! Sparkler was brought out of her thoughts when the beam emanating from her pendant sprouted wings, and reshaped itself into a creature that no one saw coming. “A DRAGON?!” Everyone exclaimed in shock! Indeed, the pendant ceased shooting the beam, and all of them saw a blue dragon made purely out of energy hovering over them. The dragon let out a terrifying roar that sent chills down everyone’s spines. Sparkler however also felt something else. Something that shocked her, she felt a CONNECTION to whatever the dragon was. What? She thought as the dragon started moving, turning to the school. She actually understood the roar’s meaning. It was the dragon letting everyone know that it was free. Sundown growled as she got up after being blasted. And looked up to see the dragon turning towards her. “The heck?!” She asked, a hint of fear creeping up. Within the mind, Sunset and her two allies stared at the screen in front of them. “Huh…that’s never happened before.” She said, wondering how much pain she was about to endure. “Been nice knowing you two.” Manifestation Sparkler said. “I doubt it’ll kill us.” Daydream told her. Back outside, the dragon opened it’s mouth and blasted fire at Sundown. Sundown raised a shield around herself to block the fire. “Gah! I am a god you insignificant little—“ Sundown didn’t get a chance to finish as the dragon had turned and whipped items tail at her, with such force that it sent her crashing THROUGH the wall and back into the gym. Sparkler and her friends jumped when they saw the dragon beat down Sundown. Actually terrified that the Dragon was going to kill the demon before they could separate her from Sunset. “Wait!” Sparkler cried out. “We need her alive!” She called out to the dragon. That might have been a mistake as the dragon turned it’s head and stared directly at the girls. It let out a roar before it landed on the ground in front of them. Causing the girls to back up in terror. “S-should we run?” Fluttershy asked, quivering in her boots. Sparkler studied the dragon, and found it was just…looking at them, not attacking. “I…I think we’re safe.” She said as she slowly, and cautiously, started approaching the dragon. “Sparkler?!” Twilight asked in panic. “I think it’s ok Twilight…I think it won’t hurt us…” Sparkler responded. She couldn’t say why, for lack of an explanation, but for some reason, she felt something between her and the dragon, a bond that Sparkler didn’t understand. “Sparkler?” Twilight asked again, now more confused than terrified. Sparkler approached the dragon, who was now staring directly at her. Sparkler gulped as she reached out with a hand. “You’re on our side…aren’t you.” She said. “You came from my pendent…you’re another piece of the puzzle aren’t you.” She deduced as she slowly pressed her hand against the dragon’s muzzle. The second she made physical contact, her eyes glowed bright white, as did the dragon’s, as a mental link was established between them. Within the mind, Sparkler stared as a dragon stood in front of her, roughly her size. “Who…who are you?” Sparkler asked. “I am that which has been with you since the first hours of your existence. Within the pendant you wear I have waited. At long last, the time has finally come for you to tap into your true power Sparkling Medley.” Sparkler heard the dragon tell her, something that confused Sparkler greatly. “True power? What are you—“ Sparkler didn’t get to finish as the dragon started to glow. From the outside, the Rainbooms and Autumn saw Sparkler and the dragon glowing brightly, and the dragon began to MERGE with Sparkler. “What the?” Autumn asked. “What’s going on?” Rainbow asked. They watched as Sparkler began to transform. They saw her Crystalize, pony up, and also saw the dragon form around her. Transforming into armor that bore a striking resemblance to Rarity’s super form from when they first got their Geodes. Only the Crystal Wings from Twilight’s initial super form were added to the mix. Once it was done, Sparkler dimmed, and everyone saw a crystalized, ponied up, suited up Sparkler. Sparkler opened her eyes, and looked down to look at herself. “What just happened?” She asked. Twilight opened her mouth, but shut it when they heard a roar and saw Sundown emerge. “Grah! I don’t know what the hay that was but you will PAY FOR THAT!” She growled. Autumn raised her blaster while the ponied up girls took ready stances. “Seven minutes girls.” Autumn responded, counting down how long before Sundown would be separated from Sunset. “Then let’s do it.” Sparkler said. Maybe this dragon could tell me what I can do? She thought, sending it as going to be a learn as she went deal. To be continued… > Episode 10: Operation Sundown Pt 7 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- SMILE HQ Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 2005hrs Everyone in the CIC of SMILE HQ watched as the energy dragon appeared over Agents Medley and Autumn, unbelieving of what they were seeing. “Uhm…I’m not the only one seeing this right?” One of the people asked. “A dragon? Where the heck did that come from?” Asked another. “Wherever it came from, it completely decked Sundown.” Another commented. Director Derrick wasn’t saying anything, but his mind was racing as he watched. If that's who I think it is, Sparkler’s one step closer. He thought as he watched Sparkler touch the dragon. Only a matter of time. Canterlot High Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 2005hrs Sundown roared as she fired her magic wildly at her enemies. “You will all pay for ruining my plan!” She growled. Autumn kept firing at her with the Sparkmobile’s heaviest firearm while dodging Sundown’s blasts, and continually missed her shots. “God this demon’s agile.” She said. “But is she fast?” Rainbow commented as she ran past Autumn and towards Sundown, clenching her fist and landing a blow to Sundown’s face. Sundown growled at the blow and fired on Rainbow, who dodged the shot. “Hahah! Missed me!” She taunted the demon. “Rainbow, don’t tick her off.” Applejack said as she threw a sandbag at Sundown. Pinkie came up beside her and threw one of her explody orbs that made the sandbag explode all over Sundown. “Aww come on. Taunting’s part of the superhero gig.” Rainbow said as she continued to dodge shots. “Rarity knows all about trendy stuff right?” She asked. “Not when it’s adversely affecting the situation.” Rarity responded as she blocked another magic shot with her diamond shield, before producing another smaller diamond disk that she threw at Sundown. “You’re just making her more mad.” “And while we are trying to keep her off focus. There’s such a thing as going too much.” Twilight commented as she used her telekinesis to redirect a magical blast back to Sundown. Sparkler meanwhile took to the sky using her now-functional wings. She was blasting at Sundown from above with her watch blaster, which had returned to normal operation. “I can’t believe these things weren’t actually functional before now.” She commented. “Good thing I never tried to fly before now.” “You are capable of so much more than just flying Sparkling Medley.” She heard the dragon say. Sparkler rolled her eyes. “Ok. Sure, maybe ELABORATE a bit? If there’s something I can do that can help, we could use all the help we can get.” She told the Dragon. At that moment, she felt something appear on her back. She reached back and was surprised to feel a familiar shaft of a guitar. She drew it out from her back and her eyes widened. It was unlike any guitar she had seen before, and she only recognized it was a guitar thanks to the strings on it. “A guitar?” She asked. “Play a tune, and it shall release an effective sonic waveform.” The dragon told her. Sparkler really doubted the effectiveness in this case, but seeing as how she did ask the Dragon to elaborate, Sparkler strummed a few Notes, and a Sonic blast shot from the sound hole (actually guitar term) and slammed into Sundown, forcing her down to the ground. Sundown growled as she looked up to the sky. “Grah! You’ll pay for that!” She yelled as she took to the skies after Sparkler. Sparkler took off flying through the sky, with Sundown tailing her. Rainbow saw what was going on and took off through the sky after them. Nearby, Chase, Lyra, Bonbon, and Micro all watched as they saw Sundown, Rainbow, and maybe most shockingly of all, Sparkler, who they saw was suited up differently. “The heck?” Chase asked as they watched. “I-is that Sparkler?” Lyra asked. “Look like it?” Bonbon responded. They saw Sundown blast Rainbow back and blast at Sparkler, who narrowly dodged the attack. That was all Chase needed before he pressed the fire button on his steering wheel, and his car started firing stun lasers at Sundown from its headlights. One of the shots connected with Sundown and she growled as she saw the incoming flying car and fell back. Sparkler and Rainbow saw the car coming and Sparkler smiled. “They’re back.” She said as she flew up to the driver’s window, which was down. “Please tell me you got the De-Evilizers.” She said. “We got them.” Micro responded. “And good news, I managed to save us some time by syncing them up on the way here.” He said. “Great!” Sparkler responded. “Get down there and set them up.” She said. “You’ll need to get Sundown on the ground for it to work.” Micro responded. “Leave that to us.” Rainbow responded. “Sparkler, that apparent Sonic attack should help.” She said. “Maybe?” Sparkler asked. “Sonic attack?” Chase asked. “You missed something big. We’ll explain later.” Sparkler responded. “Now go!” She told Chase. Chase nodded and flew the car down to the ground. Sparkler turned to see Sundown charging right for them. “Alright Rainbow, time to corral Sundown like sheep dogs.” She said. “Aye aye Sparkler.” Rainbow said as she and Sparkler started herding Sundown back to the ground. On the ground, Twilight saw the flying car land on the field and the four other agents of SMILE get out with pyramid looking devices. “Look! They’re back.” She said. Lyra, Bonbon, Chase, Micro, and the Rainbooms gathered together. “Alright. We got the De-Evilizers.” Lyra said. “We need to set them up at the corners of the field, and when we activate them, we’ll have 2 minutes to get Sundown into position.” Micro told them. “What happens when those two minutes are up?” Pinkie asked. “Sundown is physically and mentally pulled right out of Sunset.” Micro responded. “After which, we can do as we please to Sundown without endangering Sunset.” He said. Twilight was happy that it was going to be over soon, before she heard her inner demon’s voice again. “Ooh. I hope it works for me too. I’m tired of You beating me down.” She said. “No!” She growled out loud, for everyone to hear. “Twilight?” Rarity asked. “What’s wrong. Twilight stiffened when she realized she said that out loud. Knowing that it wasn’t the time or place to try to hide it, she sighed. “I can’t be in the area of effect when it activates. Otherwise Midnight Sparkle will be released.” She said. “Midnight Sparkle?!” Everyone gasped. “Do we have a code Midnight too?!” Lyra asked. Worrying. “You have a code for that?!” Twilight asked. “We have codes for everything.” Bonbon responded. Fluttershy, who had been sitting on the sidelines since the performance, glanced up and saw Sparkler and Rainbow fast pushing Sundown back down to the ground. “She’s coming back.” She said. Everyone saw what Flutters was talking about and Autumn turned to her fellow agents. “Set those things up and Lyra, Chase, and Bonbon get a weapon from the Sparkmobile. Now we need to keep Sundown on the ground.” She said. Everyone nodded and broke off, Fluttershy went with Micro while the other three agents ran for the other corners of the field. Sparkler played her new guitar again and used the sonic attack to force Sundown onto the ground. “Come on everyone! Let’s kick her flanks!” She called out. Everyone, feeling a second wind over the news that it was almost over, kept the pressure on Sundown, attacking from all sides and doing their best to keep her off balance. Micro meanwhile hit the activate button on one of the devices and a timer started counting down. He raised an eyebrow. “What the…I thought it was two minutes. Why does it say 50 seconds?” He asked. “Oh, that’s good. Right?” Fluttershy asked. “This gets over with sooner.” “I…guess so.” Micro responded. “Maybe one of the lab agents managed to cut the time down.” He said as he talked into his watch. “Y’all got 40 seconds!” He called out. Sparkler smiled. “Good to hear Micro! Come on guys! Let’s hold her down!” She said. Autumn, Chase, Bonbon and Lyra nodded, got out their grappling hooks, and fired them at Sundown, the rope coiling around Sundown and pulling taut. Restricting Sundown’s movement. Applejack smiled as she got out her lasso. “Come on Y’all! Let’s truss her up and hold her down!” She called out as she threw the lasso and lassoed up Sundown. Rarity produced a diamond plate that pushed down on Sundown, and Pinkie Pie and Rainbow pulled on a party streamer Pinkie had thrown out and coiled around Sundown. And Sparkler, getting an idea, used a prolonged Sonic attack to apply even more downward pressure upon Sundown, all of that together more or less overcame Sundown’s initial struggles. “Grah! Let me go you insignificant clowns! I am a goddess! You are all beneath me!” She growled as she struggled harder. Meanwhile, Twilight had gotten off the field and out of range of the area of effect. She didn’t know if Sparkler noticed, but she hoped she hadn’t. Because she didn’t really want to lie to Sparkler. One demon unleashed on this world is enough. She thought. It wasn’t lost on her the risk they were taking with this plan. While it would save Sunset, it would also allow for a chance for Sundown, in her own body, to get loose. “I’m looking forward to meeting this Sundown girl. She sounds exactly my type.” Midnight commented. “Shut up!” Twilight thought back. “You’re supposed to be gone! How are YOU still here?!” She asked. “I’ve always been around you little brat.” Midnight responded. Twilight grimaced, before she noticed Sundown beginning to overpower everything being used to hold her down. She lightly gasped. She didn’t know how much time was left, but she knew they couldn’t afford for Sundown to escape now. What do I do… She thought. “If you step in that area of effect I get out.” Midnight taunted her. “Quite the little conundrum you have here.” She said. Twilight watched as Sundown started rising from the ground, and her mind came to a decision. “Please let the De-Evilizers only target Sundown.” She said as she raced back onto the field, activated her telekinesis, and used it to pull Sundown back onto the ground. Rarity, who was the closest to her, raised an eyebrow. “Darling? What are you doing?” She asked. “What about—“ “One way or another Sundown is being ripped from Sunset’s mind tonight.” Twilight cut Rarity off, determined to help save her friend no matter what. Rarity stared at Twilight for a sec, before nodding and returning her focus to keeping Sundown on the ground. A few seconds later, the field began glowing purple and green and Micro called out from the side. “It’s activating! Everyone let go!” He called out. Everyone did as they were told and stopped trying to keep Sundown on the ground. They expected Sundown to shoot into the sky, but it seemed the green and purple glowing kept her down now. Twilight, seeing a chance, tried to move, but found her feet were stuck to the ground as well, she noticed everyone else backing up, and her heart sank as it dawned on her what it meant. No… She had hoped that she had a couple extra seconds to get out of the way, but it seemed she was not that lucky. She could already feel Midnight being ripped from her mind. “Oh yes. Finally I will have my own body!” Midnight exclaimed happily, laughing maniacally. Within the mind of Sundown, a gusty wind picked up as the four occupants saw a bright light above. Sundown backed up, and turned to run. “No! No I will not be forced from this vessel!” She growled. The wind picked up and Sundown could no longer fight against it, so she decided to dig her claws into the ground to keep herself from getting sucked into the light. “I will have this body for my own! And I WILL have Sparkling Medley!” She yelled out. Sunset Shimmer, not being affected by the wind, smiled as she approached Sundown. “You were created because of my mistakes. And you have haunted me ever since. I couldn’t be happier to do this and finally be able to move on.” She said as she clenched her fist. “And FYI, Sparkling Medley will never, EVER be yours.” She added as she gave Sundown a sucker punch to the face. The punch was enough for Sundown to lose her grip and she was sucked into the light. “NO!!!!!” She growled as she disappeared. Sunset smiled. “Finally. She’s finally out of here.” She said, breathing a sigh of relief. “Sunset! A little help!” Manifestation Sparkler called out. Sunset turned and saw ManiSparkler trying to hold onto Daydream, who she found was being affected by the wind as well. “What?!” She asked as she dashed over to them and grabbed Daydream’s other hand. “What the heck is going on?” She asked. “Girls, you have to let me go.” Daydream said. “Otherwise the wind will also pick you two up and you two need to remain here.” She explained. “No!” Sunset said. “I actually WANT you in my head.” “Just hold on Daydream. This wind has to stop at some point!” ManiSparkler said. “Girls! It won’t!” Daydream told them. “Sunset, you need to get back at the controls. And ManiSparkler, you need to be to her what I was now.” She said. “Daydream.” Sunset said, a couple tears in her eyes as Daydream stopped trying to hold on. “Sunset, It’ll be ok.” Daydream said. “You’re not alone.” She told her. ManiSparkler and Sunset looked at each other, and then back af Daydream. “Been nice knowing you.” ManiSparkler said, before she and Sunset let go of Daydream. As Daydream disappeared into the light, the wind stopped and the light disappeared. Sunset stared at the void left behind. “Daydream…” She whispered. She couldn’t believe it. She had lost the divine presence she actually wanted to keep. “Was this the cost…” She asked. “Sunset.” ManiSparkler said. “You need to take back control now.” She said. Placing a comforting hand on Sunset’s shoulder. Back in the waking world, both Sunset and Twilight glowed a bright white light, before a pair of shockwaves exploded from them, and everything went quiet and dark for them as they fell unconscious. Everyone watched as Sunset returned to her normal look. Sparkler was initially worried since She saw Twilight faint as well, but only for a moment as she saw Sundown Shimmer a few feet away from Sunset, in a new body. “Yes! It worked!” She thought as she landed on the ground. All five armed SMILE agents converged on Sundown and aimed at her. Sundown meanwhile was coming too and groaning. “Ugh…what happened…” She asked. She looked around, and noticed Sunset on the ground. “What…what happened?” She asked. She looked down, and saw that she was in her own body. “A…a new body?” She asked. “That’s right you demon.” Sundown heard Sparkler say. She looked up and saw the five SMILE agents aiming their weapons at her. “Congratulations Sundown. You’re now your own entity.” Lyra said. Sundown growled. “Well, what are you idiots waiting for. You got me, might as well finish it.” She said. Sparkler chuckled. “Oh it’s indeed over. But you’ll instead be going straight through the portal and to a prison on the other side that I’ve heard excels at containing menaces like you.” She said. Sundown growled at her. “I would rather DIE than go to Tartarus.” She said. “And I will not fall to HUMAN MORTALS.” She added. “Says the girl currently being held at gunpoint 5 times over.” Bonbon responded. “And this time these bad boys are set to kill.” She added. “Don’t be so sure about that you little brat!” Called out an unfamiliar voice to most, before the five SMILE agents were suddenly blown off their feet and knocked back several feet away from Sundown. Everyone turned to see where that shockwave came from, and all were downright stunned to see MIDNIGHT SPARKLE, in her new flesh, approach Sundown. Sundown was wide eyed as Midnight offered her a hand. Sundown took it and Midnight helped her up. “Come on.” Midnight said. “We need to go.” Sundown stared at Midnight, before she caught a glimpse of the unconscious Twilight. She growled as she pushed past Midnight and raced towards Twilight, determined to destroy her. Rainbow was the first to recover from the shock, and took off in a sprint to stop Sundown, but before she could reach her, Midnight blasted her off her feet and knocked her down to the ground. Midnight then captured Sundown in her magic and took off. “Forget her! We need to get out of here before they come to their senses!” She growled at Sundown as she flew off with her. Sundown growled at Midnight, before turning her attention back to the pests that defeated her AGAIN. “You’ll pay for this! I’ll be back!” She growled. Sparkler got back onto her feet and saw the two leave. She heard Sundown’s growl and she nodded. “Yeah…And we’ll be waiting.” She said. “Tell me I did not just see Midnight Sparkle escape with Sundown.” Lyra said as she and Sparkler’s fellow agents got to their feet and shook off the shockwave’s shock. “You did.” Chase said, knowing who Midnight Sparkle was. “Who did you say that girl was?” Sparkler asked. “Midnight Sparkle, Twilight’s evil alter ego. It was a whole thing that led to her transferring to Canterlot High.” Autumn explained. Sparkler nodded, before her eyes widened. “Twilight!” She exclaimed as she turned and saw Twilight still on the ground. She raced over to Twilight, sunk to her knees, and pulled Twilight into her arms. “Twilight, Twilight are you OK?” She asked, concerned and worried for her girlfriend. Twilight came to quickly and groaned. “S-Sparkler…” She croaked out, recovering from having a demon ripped from her mind. “I’m here Twilight. It’s ok. It’s over now.” Sparkler responded. “No…Midnight…” Twilight responded. “I know. She and Sundown escaped.” Sparkler said. “But don’t worry, we’ll stop them, somehow.” She said. Holding Twilight in a comforting hug. Twilight got enough of her strength back to wrap her arms around Sparkler…And she couldn’t help but let tears fall. Knowing that she was responsible for a SECOND demon being released. “I…I’m sorry.” She whispered. “Twilight.” Rarity said as she and Chase approached and knelt down beside her, Chase began to scan her with his watch. “It’s ok darling. We’re all safe, and that’s what counts.” She said. Chase finished scanning Twilight and glanced at his watch. He smiled. “She’s gonna be alright.” He said. “Just disoriented for a bit.” At that moment, Twilight, and the other Rainbooms, started glowing, and they returned to their normal, human appearances, having no more reason to be ponied up. Sparkler smiled as she helped Twilight up and wrapped her arm around her shoulder to help support her. “Flappy.” She spoke into her watch. “Is the Sparkmobile drivable yet?” She asked. “Yes Sparkler.” Flappy said. Sparkler nodded as she, Twilight, Chase and Rarity made their way over to where the others had gathered around Sunset, who was still out cold. Lyra saw them come and she smiled. “She’s out like a light but she’ll make it.” She reported, having scanned her like Chase scanned Twilight. “That’s good.” Twilight said, breathing a sigh of relief. Rarity took over supporting Twilight so Sparkler could kneel down beside Sunset. “I hope she’s not gonna be mad at us for all the pain she’s gonna feel tomorrow because of us.” She commented. That got a chuckle out of everyone. “She said back in the gym that she knew it was coming.” Autumn said. “Although I doubt she expected a freaking dragon.” She said to Sparkler. As if on cue, Sparkler started to glow, and she returned to her normal look while the blue energy dragon reappeared. Everyone saw the dragon and panicked. Sparkler just smiled. “It’s OK everyone…It’s on our side.” She said as she got up and approached the dragon. “How do you know Sparkler?” Twilight asked. “I’m…Not sure how to explain it.” Sparkler responded as she rested a hand on the dragon’s muzzle. “But I do know there’s something between me and it…A connection of sorts.” She said. The dragon closed its eyes, before it glowed, and began to shrink. It shrunk down to the size of Ferret before it dimmed, and everyone saw that it had gained a physical, scaly form. The little dragon roared as it flapped it’s wings, and flew up to Sparkler’s open hands, landing on them. It roared again. Sparkler smiled and pet the dragon. “Thank you for your help.” She said. “You can understand it?” Chase asked. Sparkler nodded. “Again, I can’t explain it…But it told me it was always with me. Ever since I was born.” She said. Everyone looked at each other, confused. After a moment, Pinkie spoke up. “This has been the strangest halloween we’ve ever had.” She commented. Everyone laughed in agreement. “I’m just glad it’s over.” Sparkler said. Looking to Twilight, who smiled and nodded her way. Sparkler breathed a sigh of relief. While she was still terrified of Twilight now knowing she was a secret agent…She was also glad that she had nothing more to hide from her. Eventually, Everyone decided to pack up and go home. After assuring that they’d look after Sunset til she awoke, everyone dispersed until it was just Sparkler, Autumn, and Twilight with an unconscious Sunset. “Hey Sparky?” Twilight asked. “Mind if I tell my parents I’m gonna stay over at your place tonight? I want to help you look after Sunset.” She said. Sparkler glanced at Autumn, who nodded. Sparkler smiled. “Just make sure they know it won’t be just the two of us.” She said. Twilight nodded and dialed up her parents while Autumn smirked at Sparkler. “I think I’m gonna spend the night with AJ at Sweet Apple Acres.” She said. “Huh?” Sparkler asked. Autumn leaned in and whispered to her. “You, Twilight, and Sunset all have some things to talk about.” She said simply as she walked off after AJ. Sparkler’s eyes widened and she blushed. She looked back down at Sunset. Yeah…I guess we do. She admitted to herself. After a moment, Sparkler and Twilight managed to get Sunset into the Sparkmobile, and they drove off, with the dragon settling on Sparkler’s shoulder. To be continued… > Episode 11: Nightmare's End > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45 Main Street avenue Heart of Canterlot City October 31st, 2022 2100hrs Twilight sat on the couch in Sparkler’s and Autumn’s apartment. They had lay Sunset on Sparkler’s bed and tucked her in after getting home, and now Sparkler was in the kitchen doing an after action report to her SMILE boss. Sparkler had created a soundproof dome around herself so Twilight couldn’t hear what she was saying. But Twilight didn’t mind, it gave her a chance to truly go over everything that had happened that night. She almost couldn’t believe that just three hours ago, Sparkler had picked her up for a Halloween dance. And here they were now. Sparkler had revealed herself as a secret agent, Rarity revealed that Sunset had feelings for Sparkler and was jealous, leading to Twilight questioning her own monogamy, Sundown, as well as Midnight, ended up being set loose upon the world, and the most shocking thing of all, it turned out Sparkler had some sort of bond with a FREAKING DRAGON that ended up being some kind of key to her super form. It almost felt like something one would write in fanfiction. Ye gods what did we just go through? She asked. She decided to go through one event at a time. First, Sparkler being a secret agent. That explained a lot about her car, and Flappy. Although that doesn’t explain the dragon thing. She said. She and Sparkler had learned that the car and her pendant emitted similar energy readings, and given Sparkler was just as shocked as everyone else when the dragon appeared, it was a safe bet that SMILE had nothing to do with that. So what IS going on there? She thought. While also committing to herself to keep the secret agent thing to herself. She had already come to terms with it and accepted it, wanting to continue in this relationship with Sparkler. Next event, Sunset and the apparent love triangle that existed between them. In hindsight, it makes sense. Anyone with two brain cells can see how awesome Sparkler is. But Sundown… Twilight had never thought that Sunset could be so jealous that it allowed Sundown to return. She hadn’t personally encountered the demon before tonight but Sunset had told her about her some time ago, during a conversation that turned to inner demons. She must’ve really fallen for Sparkler… She surmised. She didn’t blame Sunset for what happened. She couldn’t help human (or pony) natural instincts. But this revelation also brought back those familiar strange feelings that prompted Twilight to investigate if she and Sunset could work. Those feelings now existed alongside her feelings for Sparkler. Would they be interested in a three way relationship? She wondered.  After a moment of thinking, and then processing that Sundown and Midnight were now loose, which was simple enough to understand, Twilight’s thoughts turned to the dragon. She glanced over at the kitchen table and saw the small dragon standing on the table, watching Sparkler. And then there’s…Sparkler’s new pet? Twilight honestly did not know how else to categorize the dragon currently. She wouldn’t deny that it had a claw in tonight’s success, but it raised A LOT of questions, and maybe answered a couple. C-could the dragon be the key to figuring out Sparkler’s powers? She wondered. She thought long and hard on that. If this dragon was connected, it was either another piece of the puzzle, or maybe even the FINAL piece. While all these thoughts were running through Twilight’s head, Sparkler sat at the kitchen table, on a holo call with Derrick. “So both Sundown and Midnight escaped.” Derrick said. “Yes sir, Midnight surprised us and used the distraction to get herself and Sundown out of there.” Sparkler responded. Derrick facepalmed. “Please tell me Sunset and Twilight at least made it out of this ok.” He said. “They did. Sunset’s still out cold but they’re both alive. Twilight’s a bit shaken up though.” Sparkler responded, glancing over at her girlfriend, who hadn’t said much since they left the school, something that both surprised and concerned Sparkler since she was CERTAIN Twilight would start bombarding her with questions. “At least we didn’t lose anyone tonight.” Derrick said. Sparkler nodded. “So, did SMILE manage to contain FOWL?” She asked. “We managed to contain the situation there. Even caught a few agents. If I’m being honest Sparkler, there’s a very real possibility that FOWL is responsible for this. My gut tells me that they had a hand in Sundown coming out.” Derrick explained. If that’s true, they are in for a WORLD of pain when I get my hands on them. Sparkler thought as she clenched her fists, anger arising in her towards FOWL, even if they didn’t know for sure, she wouldn’t put it past them to have a hand in tonight’s debacle. After a moment, Derrick spoke again. “One last thing.” He said. “Where’s the dragon?” He asked. Sparkler turned her watch so that Derrick could see the little guy on the table. “Right here sir…it achieved a physical form after everything was said and done. And something tells me it’s gonna be sticking around.” She said. Derrick sighed. “I had a feeling you’d say that. It came from your pendent after all.” He said. “Yeah…I don’t suppose SMILE has any data relating to this?” Sparkler asked. “It does not.” Derrick responded. “You’re walking through completely uncharted territory.” He told her. Sparkler sighed. “Yes Director.” She said. Derrick nodded. “I don’t envy you Sparkler. Taking care of a dragon is no joke.” He said. “Something tells me this little guy won’t be a problem.” Sparkler responded. “If yoy say so. Have a good Night Sparkler. Director Derrick out.” Derrick said before cutting the connection. Sparkler nodded, deactivated the soundproof dome, and with the dragon getting up onto her shoulder, she got up and walked over to the couch. “Ok, debrief is done.” She said as she sat on the couch next to Twilight. “You doing ok?” She asked, looking right at Twilight. “Yeah…just thinking.” Twilight responded. Sparkler nodded. “Pretty uh…pretty intense dance wasn’t it.” She said, chuckling nervously. “Definitely one for the history books.” Twilight responded. “Right.” Sparkler said, taking a deep breath. “Ok Twilight. I’m all yours. Any questions you might have about SMILE, I’ll answer as much as I can without getting into trouble.” She said. “But before that. I need you to promise me you won’t breathe a word of this to anyone. You can’t go around saying your girlfriend is a secret agent. Not your parents, not anyone outside those you fought alongside today…and Sunset. She already knows.” Sparkler added. Twilight nodded. “Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” She Pinkie promised. After hearing the ominous forever from Pinkie Pie, Sparkler smiled. “Alright. Ask away.” She said, bracing herself Twilight took a deep breath, and went off. “How long have you been an agent? Why were you recruited? Why did they send you here? What dangers do you face that make what the Rainbooms face look like mere arguments? What else can the Sparkmobile do? Will you let me take a more in depth look at it now? And finally.” She gestured to the dragon over Sparkler’s shoulders. “I don’t think I need to ask about the elephant in the room.” She said. Sparkler couldn’t help but chuckle. She saw every question coming from a mile away. “I’ve been an agent since I started High School, I…actually don’t know why they recruited me. Never got a straight answer there. They sent me here to keep an eye on the magic centering around Canterlot City and the portal. I will have to clear it with my superior before I let you take a look at the car but I will ask.” Sparkler told Twilight, before telling her some of the dangers she’s faced. Mostly about FOWL, adding in her suspicion that FOWL were responsible for Sundown coming back. Twilight interjected with the suggestion to ask Sunset herself when she awoke. Finally, after a few moments of storytelling, and opening Twilight’s eyes to the kind of people that exist in the world, Sparkler reached the topic of the dragon. “And aa for the dragon…you’re guess is as good as mine about him. I literally had no idea about this guy until tonight.” She said. Twilight listened to her girlfriend intently. She pouted when Sparkler didn’t say an immediate yes to the car question, but she understood why she needed to clear it with her superiors, and when they got to FOWL, Twilight ultimately agreed that FOWL was definitely worse than any danger the Rainbooms had faced. With all the SMILE stuff taken care of, the conversation turned to the dragon. “Well clearly the dragon is connected to your powers in some way.” Twilight said. “It did—“ The dragon cut her off with a roar at her. Twilight stiffened and leaned back in slight panic. “Uhm…” She said. Glancing at Sparkler. Sparkler glanced at the dragon, getting the message, before turning to Twilight. “He. And his name is Clear-Cut.” She told her. Twilight blinked. “My girlfriend can understand a dragon…ok then. Clearly HE is connected to your powers somehow…do you think maybe he could explain more?” Twilight suggested. Sparkler glanced at Clear-Cut. “Yeah…yeah I think it’s time you told us what you know about my powers. Because you did say that I was capable of so much more.” She said as she glanced at her new guitar, which hadn’t disappeared along with her super form. “And you seemingly unlocked that thing for me. So what’s the deal?” She asked. Clear-Cut roared at her, and then shook his head. Sparkler frowned. “Really? It’s like that?” She asked. “What did he say?” Twilight asked. “He said I’m not ready for all that information yet.” Sparkler said with an eye roll. “Seriously?” Twilight asked. “Yeah.” Sparkler said. She turned back to Clear-Cut. “You’re lucky I owe you for helping us so I won’t argue. But one of these days you’re gonna talk.” She said. Clear-Cut snapped his mouth at Sparkler playfully before nuzzling her cheek. Twilight giggled. “Well he’s certainly friendly.” She said. “Thankfully.” Sparkler responded. “And you’re gonna be friendly to Sunset when she wakes up right?” She asked Clear-Cut. “The demon is out of her head. She’s no longer the enemy.” She told him. Clear-Cut nodded in response, saying he understood. Twilight sighed, making Sparkler glance at her. “What’s up?” She asked. “It’s Sunset…All this because she was jealous of us.” Twilight responded. “I’m worried about her.” She said. Sparkler bit her lip and nodded. “Yeah…” She said. “Never saw that coming, but given what Rarity said…It kinda makes sense.” She said. “Yeah…it does.” Twilight responded. “Hey Sparkler?” She asked. “Yeah Twi?” Sparkler responded. “What would you say if I told you I may have had a crush on Sunset before you came along?” Twilight asked. Sparkler’s eyes widened. Staring at Twilight in shock. “You had a crush on her?” She asked. “I don’t know…I was actually in the process of figuring that out when you came along. And tonight’s revelation reminded me of that little project…And…Pinkie brought up something.” She said. “What’s that?” Sparkler asked. “She said there was no reason why the three of us couldn’t be together in a three way relationship, at face value at least.” Twilight said. “And to be honest…I’ve been trying to figure out if I am ok with that ever since.” She revealed. Sparkler blinked, not sure how to respond. She turned her head to look down the hall, which led to Sunset. She thought back to when Rarity told them of Sunset’s feelings, and now that she had a moment to actually THINK about it, She remembered several instances lately that Sunset was acting a bit weird. Like she was acting happy but was really not. With what Rarity said in mind, she realized that looking back, she had been oblivious to Sunset’s feelings since it was pretty clear in retrospect. I’m a secret agent and I was oblivious to something right in front of me. Aww crud now I feel awful. She thought. Now feeling bad about all the times she talked to Sunset about Twilight during their gaming sessions. Not realizing that it actually hurt Sunset more than it normally might hurt someone. “Aww crud I gotta apologize to her tomorrow. It was right in front of me and I failed to notice. And they say I’m the best spy in the business.” She joked. Twilight sighed. “We both do. I’ve talked to her plenty about how great you are.” She said. “And…What do you think about this three way relationship idea?” She asked. Sparkler glanced away from Twilight in thought. In truth she had never even considered a three way relationship of any kind other than pure friendship before. She didn’t even know if she was monogamous or not. “I…I don’t know Twi.” She admitted. “I’ve never even considered a three way relationship of any kind…And I never had to ask myself if I’m Monogamous or not.” She said. Twilight nodded. “Well, I HAVE been thinking about it, and…The truth is Sparky, I think I might actually be polygamous.” She said. “A scenario where I have both you and Sunset as lovers is a tempting one to say the least.” She admitted. Her eyes widened as she realized what she might have been implying. “N-Not to put any pressure on you or anything. Don’t feel like you have to do anything…Oh god we just learned Sunset has a crush on you and the first thing I do is–MMMPH!” Twilight’s rambling was cut off when Sparkler dove in and kissed her on the lips. Twilight let out an adorable little squeak when she felt Sparkler’s soft lips shut her up, but she soon melted into the kiss and returned it. After a few seconds, Sparkler pulled back. “As cute as your rambling is, Don’t even put this on yourself.” She told her. Twilight sighed as she looked down. “S-Sorry.” She said. “Twilight, You can’t help what your heart wants. They tend to have minds of their own at time. It’s just human nature.” Sparkler said. “I just feel like I’m putting pressure on you though…” Twilight responded. “I feel like I’m asking you to be ok with something when you might not be.” She said. “You’re not.” Sparkler responded. “Twilight, I know how your brain can be at times. It can run away with something and forget about the bigger picture.” She said. “I just…I don’t want you to feel like I don’t love you anymore. Especially when that’s not true.” Twilight said. “You told me earlier that we were stuck with each other forever if I wasn’t gonna break up with you.” Sparkler said. “That’s a pretty good indicator to me that you still love me.” She said. “I meant it.” Twilight said. “That’s all I needed to know to not think that you don’t love me anymore.” Sparkler responded, taking Twilight’s hand in her own. “And I promise to stand by you no matter what happens. I’m not gonna leave you just for being polygamous.” She said. “It’s who you are and I love YOU.” She said. Twilight sighed as her eyes glistened. “I still feel like I’m pressuring you though. Pressuring you to make a decision when you’ve had no time to think about it.” She said. Sparkler saw the tears coming and she pulled Twilight into a comforting and loving hug. “I never once got that impression.” She told her. “I’m good at reading people, not as good as I thought apparently but still good. I’d be able to tell if you were pressuring me.” She said. “But I’m sorry for not having a straight answer for you right away. But I promise one will come.” She said. Twilight couldn’t help but crack a smile when Sparkler took that jab at herself for not being as good as reading people as she thought. “I’m ok if you just want it to be you and me.” She told her. “If it came down to it I’d choose you over everyone else.” “And I you.” Sparkler responded. They stayed hugging each other for a while, before eventually they broke apart. “So…what do you want to do now?” Twilight asked. “After what we went through I don’t think I can go to sleep.” She said. “I saw they added Girl Vs Monster on Disney Plus. It’s still Halloween.” Sparkler suggested. Twilight smiled and snuggled up to Sparkler on the couch. “Sounds perfect Sparky.” She said. Sparkler smiled as she turned on the TV and navigated to the movie. Eventually they did fall asleep together, but not until like the third movie. To be continued… > Episode 12: Morning Chats, and Dragon Snaps > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45 Main Street avenue Heart of Canterlot City November 1st, 2022 0700hrs The sun grazed the city of Canterlot, marking the beginning of November. The sun was shining, people were waking up with headaches from too much candy, and— “Eeeek!” A scream rang through Sparkler’s and Autumn’s apartment, waking both Sparkler and Twilight, who fell asleep cuddling on the couch, in a startle. “Twilight?” “Sparkler?” “You ok?” Sparkler and Twilight both asked at the same time. They didn’t get time to think before they heard a thud. Sparkler and Twilight looked down the hall, and realized where that shriek came from. “Sunset!” They both exclaimed. They got up off the couch and dashed down the hall. Sparkler noticed the door was open. What?! Sparkler’s mind raced as she raised her watch aimed into the room they had left Sunset in. Expecting to find an intruder to stun. What she and Twilight found instead was Sunset cowering in a corner, and on the bed sat a familiar dragon. “Clear-Cut?!” Sparkler exclaimed in shock as Twilight pushed past her and ran over to Sunset. “Sunset! Are you ok?” Twilight asked. “That thing was staring at me when I woke up!” Sunset exclaimed in panic, pointed right at Clear-Cut. Sparkler lowered her watch and groaned. “Don’t worry Sunset he’s not gonna hurt you.” She said as she walked over and picked up Clear-Cut. “I thought I told you last night to leave her be until she woke up.” She told Clear-Cut. Clear-Cut roared at her. Sparkler shook her head. “No. I told you that you’d get to see her when she either came out, or we came in to check on her—“ She said right before they all heard knocking on the door. “Sparkler? Autumn? You two ok in there?” Asked one of the neighbors who heard the scream. Sparkler groaned. “I’ll get that. And you are coming with me.” She told Clear Cut. Sunset and Twilight saw them walk out. Sunset blinked in confusion, coming to her senses a bit. “Am I dreaming or did Sparkler get a pet dragon recently?” She asked. Twilight sighed. “She got him last night I guess.” She said. Out in the main living area, Sparkler dropped Clear-Cut off at the table and proceeded to the door. She opened it just enough to see a middle aged lady that lived right next door to them. “Oh, good morning Mrs. Anderveld.” She said, acting like nothing was wrong. “Good morning Sparkler.” Mrs. Anderveld responded. “Is everything ok? I heard a scream coming from your apartment.” She said. “Yep. Yeah everything’s fine.” Sparkler said quickly. “Just uh…” Crap what do I say?! She thought. Sadly for her, she would not get a chance to come up with a response because she heard a roar; before feeling something land on her head. For real?! She thought as Mrs. Anderveld backed up in fear. “Sp-Sparkler…y-you have a…” Mrs Anderveld trembled. “Mrs. Anderveld, don’t panic, I assure you he’s—“ Clear-Cut cut her off by roaring at Anderveld again. The poor woman eeped and scurried away back to her apartment in fear. Sparkler watched her go, and groaned. “For Pete’s sake.” She said as she closed the door. She reached up and grabbed Clear-Cut in her hands, pulling him off her head and turning him so they were face to face. “Is this how you’re gonna act around EVERY new person you meet?” She asked as she set Clear-Cut down on the table. Clear-Cut roared in response. Sparkler shook her head. “I am going to go make sure Sunset is ok. You are going to stay right here. And once Sunset’s all good. You and I are gonna have a little talk if this is going to work.” She said as she took a few steps back, keeping an eye on her new dragon pet. “And don’t think I won’t get a cat carrier to keep you in if you keep pulling this with people. Because I will.” She said as she turned and walked back to the room. She reentered the room to find that Twilight had managed to coax Sunset out of the corner and back sitting in the bed. She sighed as she sat on the bed with them. “Sorry about that Sunset.” Sparkler said. “I think he’s still in guard dog mode.” She said. Sunset, who had calmed down enough to come to her senses nodded. “Yeah…of all the things to come out of last night.” She commented. “Yeah…are you doing ok Sunset? After…that?” Sparkler asked. “Well I’m surprised I came out of that without broken bones. Just a few bruises.” Sunset responded. She sighed as she looked down, away from Sparkler and Twilight. The two that were put the most in danger because of her. “But I think I kinda deserved broken bones. And maybe worse…” She commented. Sparkler and Twilight looked at each other, before Twilight turned back to Sunset. “Sunny, what happened last night wasn’t your—“ She started before being cut off by Sunset, who exploded. “It IS my fault Twi. Last night was entirely my fault!” Sunset exclaimed. “Sundown was created because I was a power craving deva who didn’t listen to a pony who clearly knew better!” She said. “And she managed to come back because I treaded too close to that kind of behavior again by being jealous of you and Sparkler being together.” She admitted. “If I hadn’t been such a brat, or if I had just been honest with Sparkler from the beginning about how I felt about her, none of this would have happened!” She said as she buried her head in her arms and legs, tears forming in her eyes as all the frustration she kept bottled up came out.  Sparkler and Twilight leaned back a bit in shock at Sunset’s sudden outburst. And when they saw her curl up. Their hearts sank. Neither of them had seen Sunset like this before. She usually was the strong, calm and collected type who was confident in anything she did. To see her break down like this hurt them. Sparkler, being the first to react, leaned in and wrapped her arms around Sunset, pulling her into a comforting hug. “It’s ok Sunset. We’re not—mmph!” She was cut off when Sunset made a move. It happened so fast. Too fast for any of them to react. The near instant Sparkler pulled her into that hug, Sunset, completely on an impulse without thinking, raised her head up and pressed her lips against Sparkler’s. Kissing her. Twilight blinked as she watched her best friend and probably second crush kiss her girlfriend. Her mind raced, trying to come up with a response. Sparkler meanwhile couldn’t come up with a response at all. Her mind was too focused trying to figure out what was happening. But, while her mind may have not been available, somehow, her motor functions took over and she started kissing back! What is even happening right now?! She asked frantically. Was she for real kissing another girl IN FRONT of her girlfriend?! And the most horrifying part, was that she didn’t want it to stop. What the crap?! After a few seconds, Sunset’s mind seemed to have caught up with her, because she pulled back, and Sparkler and Twilight saw a look of horror on her face. Sunset’s mind raced as it dawned on her what she just did. “I…I…” Before Sparkler and Twilight could react, Sunset, again through impulse, got off the bed and dashed out of the room. “Sunset!” Twilight called out, worried about her friend. Crap crap crap that was stupid! Sunset exclaimed as she tried to make it out the door, before something came blocking her way. She saw the little dragon cut off her escape point and roar at her. Making her stop in her tracks. “G-get out of my way!” Sunset told him. Before anyone could move however, Sparkler and Twilight came dashing out of the hall and into the main area. “Sunset! We can talk about this.” Twilight told her. Sunset looked between Sparkler, Twilight, and the dragon, before breaking down crying and falling to her knees, covering her face in shame. “I-I’m sorry! I don’t know what came—“ “Sunset.” Sparkler cut her off. “Calm down.” She said as she and Twilight got on their knees beside Sunset. Trying to be as comforting as possible. “It’s ok. We know.” Sparkler told her. “Rarity told us about your feelings last night. When we were formulating a plan with SMILE.” Twilight explained. At the mention of SMILE, Sunset’s eyes widened and she glanced at Sparkler. Sparkler just nodded. “She knows.” She said Sunset nodded in response. “It’s just…I enjoy the time we spend together. It started two weeks before the first date you two had. Something just…” “Clicked inside you and you wanted the fun times to continue forever?” Twilight offered. “Y-yeah.” Sunset responded. “Why did you never say anything?” Sparkler asked. “Why do you think? I was scared of rejection, scared that you might pull the secret agent card. I just…I was too cowardly to be honest to you.” Sunset said. “I kept them bottled up, until…” She trailed off, not wanting to say it. Sparkler nodded. “Yeah. I think Twilight and I can actually share some of the blame for Sundown’s return.” She said. “We never realized that us talking about each other to you made you jealous. We’re sorry Sunset.” Twilight said. “It’s ok. You didn’t know.” Sunset responded. “I’m sorry last night ended in disaster when you just wanted a nice first dance.” She said. “There will be other dances.” Sparkler responded. “But we only have one Sunset, and we’ll always choose to save you.” She added, her and Twilight pulling her into a hug. Sunset looked between Sparkler and Twilight. “Y-you two really aren’t mad?” She asked. “We’re not.” Twilight responded. “In fact I actually have to thank you Sunset. Last night I learned who my girlfriend really is. An awesome secret agent that can hold her own against a demon.” She said. All three girls couldn’t help but chuckle. Sunset nodded. “Yeah. She is pretty amazing.” She commented. She took a deep breath, and sighed. “Ok. You can say it Sparkler.” She said. “Huh?” Sparkler asked. “You can say it. The rejection. I’m ready to hear it and move on.” Sunset said. For some reason, now that she knew Sparkler knew how she felt, she was ready to finally let it go and move on. Like a giant weight had been lifted from her shoulders. “Just…I hope we can still be friends…I know I kinda messed up a few minutes ago with that kiss…” She added. Sparkler bit her lip. On the one hand, she would have definitely had the rejection talk with Sunset before last night, but on the other hand…last night actually had her questioning her monogamy. After the dance, Sparkler was able to think on it and analyze it from many angles, consider the pros and cons, and she came to the conclusion that she might not be as monogamous as she first thought. “Yeah…about that.” She said. “Remember last night when I faked showing interest in Sundown? To get the Geode of empathy away from her?” Sparkler asked. Sunset giggled. “Yeah. It was hilarious.” She responded. “Wait, Sparkler did what?” Twilight asked. “I’ll tell you later Twi.” Sparkler responded. “Well, that was inspired by what Rarity said. And…” Gosh she was nervous. She thought of what she wanted to say, but for some reason nothing felt right. After a moment, she decided on another tactic. She pulled out the geode of Empathy, which Autumn gave to her to return to Sunset, and handed it to Sunset. “I can’t really explain it. I think you should take a trip into my mind for a better explanation.” She said. “If you can, target the memories of last night after the dance.” Sunset took the Geode, wrapped the cord around her neck, and while she hadn’t intended for it to work so soon, because Sparkler was touching her, Sunset’s eyes glowed bright white and she saw into Sparkler’s mind. She saw Sparkler and Twilight talking about Sunset’s feelings for her, and she was shocked to learn that Twilight probably would have fallen for HER if Sparkler hadn’t come along. She saw Twilight saying that she was intrigued by the prospect of the three way relationship. Something Pinkie Pie had mentioned to her about on multiple occasions. And she saw Sparkler questioning her own monogamy, and perhaps more importantly, she felt Sparkler looking back at their friendship and trying to figure out if there was a spark between them that would tell her whether or not she herself was monogamous. Sadly she didn’t get to see much of anything else because she suddenly felt immense feedback that gave her a splitting headache that forced her out of Sparkler’s mind. “Gah! God I have a splitting headache all of a sudden.” She said. “What happened?” Twilight asked. “Something forced me out of Sparkler’s mind.” Sunset said. “And gave me a splitting headache.” Sparkler was about to ask why since she never wanted to force Sunset out, before it dawned on her that now there was another possibility. She groaned. “Clear-Cut.” She said. She glared at the tiny dragon, who roared. Sparkler grit her teeth. “Dude, I LET her into my mind.” She told him. “If you don’t knock it off we’re gonna have MAJOR problems. She is not evil. The evil is quite literally OUT of her now.” She said. She turned back to Sunset. “Sorry about that. Did you at least manage to see what I wanted you to see?” She asked. “Some of it at least.” Sunset responded. “I saw Twilight admit that it would have been me if not for you.” She smirked slyly at Twilight, who blushed. “I saw you looking back at our friendship, and I think I saw a glimpse of an answer to that monogamy question, along with maybe a...” She trailed off. Sparkler nodded. “Look, I’m not going to promise anything. For all I know this is just a passing thing. But after thinking and searching through myself, I can at least confidently say that I wouldn’t mind having two lovers.” She said, smiling at Sunset and Twilight. “So…if Twilight’s ok with it. No reason why we can’t do like a trial date or something. See how it goes and see if there’s enough of a spark between you and me to catch fire.” She said. Sunset stared at Sparkler, unsure if she heard right. “You mean…” She said. “If Twilight’s ok with it.” Sparkler said, turning to Twilight. Twilight slowly smiled widely. “You bet I’m ok with it!” She said. “In fact, no reason why we can’t do something today! We could go to the park, maybe see a movie together. Or maybe a nice dinner at Airwave’s Airwave. I loved that place last time.” She said. “So long as FOWL doesn’t try to ruin it again I’m down.” Sunset responded, chuckling. “What?” Twilight asked, still in the dark about what had happened. “Nothing you need to worry about Twi. Just a little scuffle.” Sparkler said. “And I’m sure it won’t happen again.” Twilight admittedly was confused, but she nodded all the same. “So. We’re all good?” She asked. Sunset nodded and hugged the both of them. “Yeah. Thanks Twi, Sparkler.” She said. “We’ll always be here for you Sunset. No matter the state of our relationship.” Sparkler responded. After a few moments, they all parted, and Sparkler turned to Clear-Cut. “Now that that’s out of the way. It’s time we established some ground rules.” She said as she gestured to the table, wanting Clear-Cut on it. Clear-Cut obliged and flew over and landed on the table. With Sparkler, Sunset, and Twilight taking seats around the table. “We can also thank you for last night Sunset because it provided us with a MAJOR piece to the puzzle of why Sparkler has powers.” Twilight told Sunset. “Yeah…I wouldn’t say no to that.” Sunset said. “Ahem. Before we jump into speculation.” Sparkler said. With that, she started laying down the rules for Clear-Cut. SMILE HQ Canterlot City November 1st, 2022 0900hrs Derrick stood in his office, in front of a group of holograms depicting silhouettes. “This is worrisome to say the least.” One of them said. Derrick raised an eyebrow. “Worrisome? How so?” “Because she wasn’t supposed to discover Clear-Cut yet.” Another silhouette said. “It was too early.” “Blame FOWL for kidnapping Sunset.” Derrick responded. “You all realize that this brings her one step closer to finding the truth about herself right?” He asked. “What she has now is not enough for her to learn the truth.” “So you STILL aren’t going to tell her.” Derrick surmised. “It is not time yet.” “Well your time is running out.” Derrick said. “With this development she took a major step in the right direction. My guess is you don’t have long before she finds out on her own. And I am not going to get in her way.” He added. “Derrick. You agreed—“ “Yes. I know. But there is no reason to keep her in the dark. Especially since it’s now more inevitable than ever that she’ll find the truth on her own.” Derrick responded. “And I’m sure she’d rather hear it from you then have to dig for the answer.” He said. The silhouettes said nothing. Derrick continued. “And it’s not like you have to travel to tell her. One of you is friends with her for Pete’s sake. You could literally just pull her aside at lunch or something and tell her.” He said. “We have our orders Derrick. Our superiors were clear.” “Well tell your superiors that now there is an official deadline. You have until she turns 18 to tell her. Because that is when I’m officially done keeping this from her. And this is of course assuming that she doesn’t find out on her own in the meantime.” Derrick said. “I suggest you talk to them and seriously consider all possible scenarios. Because there’s only one best case scenario if you want to have any chance of having a good standing with her.” He said as he pressed a button and the holograms disappeared. He sat back down at his desk and sighed. “Those people are really starting to get on my nerves.” He commented as he got back fo work. To be continued… > Episode 13: Clear-Cut Meets World...And Daydreams. > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot High Canterlot City November 2nd, 2022 0740hrs The Monday after the Halloween Dance Debacle, Sparkler pulled up into a parking space next to Sunset at Canterlot High. She put the car in park and turned to Twilight and Autumn. “Alright, here we are. You two and Sunset go ahead to Celestia’s office. Tell her I’ll be there in a few…with someone who’s pretty stubborn.” She said, glancing at Clear-Cut. Twilight and Autumn nodded. They had received an email the previous day that Celestia wanted to talk to…pretty much everyone involved in the Halloween Dance Debacle. “Hurry up. Don’t know if Celestia will be patient.” Autumn said as she and Twilight got out of the Sparkmobile. Once the doors closed. Sparkler took Clear-Cut in her hands and looked right at him. “Alright little guy. Assuming Celestia agrees to allow you in the building. You only get ONE chance. No snapping at anyone, no scaring them off, and if I tell you to stay somewhere, you do it. Got it?” She asked. Clear-Cut roared in response. Sparkler gave him a stern look. “I’m serious Clear-Cut. You only get one chance before I bring you right back out here and put you in the cat carrier. So behave.” She said. Clear-Cut roared at her in response. Sparkler nodded. “Ok. I’m holding you to that.” She said as she got out of the car, Clear-Cut taking up position on her shoulder. Sparkler walked into the school and headed right for Celestia’s office. Right away she could tell people were confused when they looked at her and saw a freaking dragon on her shoulder. Sparkler ignored it for now and kept walking. She soon made it to Celestia’s office and was given permission to enter. She saw her friends and fellow agents already there. To say Celestia was surprised to learn that the girls weren’t kidding when they told her Sparkler now had a dragon was an understatement. “Well…this is Uhm…surprising.” She said. Sparkler nodded. “Yeah.” She said. “And here’s another shocker…Clear-Cut here wants your permission to come to school with me so that he can, and I quote “keep me safe at all costs.” Sparkler explained. “I told him pets weren’t allowed but he was insistent we at least ask you.” She said. Clear-Cut let out a roar directed at Celestia. Sparkler glanced at Clear-Cut, and then at Celestia. “He says he’ll be on his best behavior and not scare everyone.” She said. “You can understand him?” Luna asked. Sparkler shrugged. “Not sure why, but somehow…I can.” She responded. Celestia and Luna glanced at each other. Luna shrugged, and Celestia sighed. “I suppose it would be Ok for…Clear-Cut? to remain by your side.” She told Sparkler. “So long as he behaves.” “I already told him he only gets one chance before I bring him out to my car and put him in the cat carrier.” Sparkler responded. “Sounds reasonable.” Celestia responded. “With that out of way, what happened during the Halloween dance after Sundown hypnotized everyone?” She asked. Canterlot Mall Canterlot City November 2nd, 2022 1730hrs After school, Sparkler had work, and much to her chagrin, Clear-Cut insisted he remain by her side there too. So she begrudgingly agreed to talk to Airwave too, and this time she was a LOT less confident that Clear-cut would be able to stay by her side while on duty. So she arrived earlier and fortunately, Airwave was in so she walked into his office, and explained the situation. “So…let me get this straight.” Airwave said. “Over the weekend, you battled a demon, and during that battle, this little guy here was brought into existence?” Airwave asked. “Yep. I know it sounds unbelievable, but it’s true.” Sparkler said. “And now he’s insisting that he be allowed to stay by your side, on your shoulder, everywhere you go.” Airwave said. “Yep.” Sparkler responded. “He says he’ll be on his best behavior.” “It’s not just that.” Airwave responded. “He may have scales and not fur but having an animal stuck on your shoulder while on duty, even if they’re a support animal, is pretty sketchy. There will probably be complaints from both patrons and government officials.” Airwave explained. “Why do you think I’m not trying to convince you to let Clear-Cut stick around?” Sparkler responded. “I wouldn’t have even brought it up to you if he wasn’t so insistent.” Airwave nodded. He opened his mouth to say something, before the door opened and a staff member came in. “Excuse me, sorry for the disruption.” She said. “What is it Cherry?” Airwave asked. “Some of the younger children are asking about the dragon they saw with Sparkler. Seems he’s gained some fans.” Cherry responded. Airwave and Sparkler gave her perplexed looks. Cherry shrugged. “Just relaying what I’ve been asked.” She said. Sparkler and Airwave looked at each other. “...We technically don’t have a mascot.” Sparkler commented. “True…” Airwave responded. “And sometimes being around animals is calming…” Soon, Clear-Cut was flying around the restaurant, doing loop the loops and barrel rolls in the air. While also stopping for a moment so kids could pet him and such. Sparkler and Lyra watched as Clear-Cut entertained his apparent adoring fans of all ages. “I can’t believe Airwave actually agreed to this.” Lyra commented. “Good thing I can pull some strings to make sure we don’t get shut down over this.” Sparkler commented, making a note to talk to Derrick. She walked on over to a table she was serving. “Hey there guys. Have you decided on what you want for dinner?” She asked. “Can we pet the dragon?” The kids at the table asked excitedly. Sparkler chuckled and glanced around til she found Clear-Cut. “Hey Clear-Cut! Over here!” She called. Clear-Cut flew right over to Sparkler and landed in her outstretched hands, which were low enough that the kids could reach him. “Careful. He likes to snap so don’t touch his muzzle.” She warned. The kids obeyed and pet Clear-Cut’s back and wings. “So scaly!” One of them commented. “I can’t believe there’s a real life dragon! I thought that was just fantasy!” Another said. Sparkler chuckled. “Yeah. Well, sometimes you find the last thing you’re expecting.” She said. Over at a booth, Twilight and Sunset, both of whom were off work, watched as Clear-Cut gained a following. “Oh that is just cute.” Sunset commented. “Not what I expected. But I can’t argue with the results.” She said. “Yeah.” Sunset said. She looked over at Twilight and smiled warmly. “Did you ever think you’d have two girlfriends when Sparkler asked you out?”  Twilight laughed. After the talk they had, Sparkler, Twilight, and Sunset spent Sunday together doing whatever. And ultimately, found that there was a mutual spark between all three of them. Which had ignited into a full on flame of love. “No. But I’m excited to see where this goes.” She said. “And. This time I won’t be nervous about bringing you over for dinner since my family’s already met you.” She said. “Glad you won’t be agonizing over it.” Sunset responded as she scooted closer to Twilight. At that moment, Clear-Cut landed on their table. Sparkler coming up behind him. “So.” She said. “Have you two decided on what to order?” She asked. “A moment of your time if you’re able.” Sunset responded. Clear-Cut roared, making Twilight laugh. “You seem to be enjoying your new job Clear-Cut.” She said. “People of all ages are loving him.” Sparkler said. “I think this is going to be a long-term thing.” “So that means he can stay by your side.” Sunset responded. “Yes.” Sparkler responded. “He can.” Clear-Cut roared again. Twilight raised an eyebrow. “What did he say Sparkler?” She asked. Sparkler smiled and pet his back. “He says he’s glad to finally be out of the pendent. And just in time for me to go into this new stage of my life. I assume that means having you two in it.” She responded. “Aww.” Twilight said. “That’s sweet.” She said. “Yeah…yeah it is.” Sparkler responded. She glanced around, before looking back at Clear-Cut. You brought SO many questions. And very few answers. But you’re definitely another piece of the puzzle. And I suppose I can’t argue with the other results of Saturday. She thought as she glanced at Twilight and Sunset…her two girlfriends. Mom and dad are gonna flip when they come over for thanksgiving. She thought. Just then, Clear-Cut stopped smiling and whirled around. The girls glanced at what had made him get all serious, and saw something they did not expect, something that made Sunset cover her mouth in shock. “Oh god…” She said. They saw a familiar girl that had majestic white wings affixed to her back, pony ears where human ears would be, and her hair was in a long ponytail. It took all of two seconds for Twilight and Sunset to piece together who she was, while Sparkler, having never seen her before, just stared at her. “Uh…Hi?” She said. “Hello there girls…It’s nice to see the three of you again.” The girl said. “Again?” Sparkler asked. “Sparkler, that’s–” “Daydream Shimmer.” Twilight and Sunset told her. Sparkler’s eyes widened. “Wait, Sunset’s good alter ego?!” She asked. “Yes. That’s me.” Daydream said. Sunset, Sparkler, and Twilight all looked at each other, and Sunset managed to piece together how Daydream was here the fastest. “The De-Evilizers sucked you out too…” She surmised. Sparkler blinked, several questions forming in her Oh dear god what did those De-Evilizers do? She thought. She had come to the same conclusion as Sunset as to where Daydream came from and how she was here, but it also should have been flat out IMPOSSIBLE since the De-Evilizers were only supposed to target the EVIL alter egos. Clear-Cut meanwhile looked at Daydream curiously. Unsure of what to make of this. Daydream smiled at Clear-Cut. “Hello there. I remember you from Saturday. You sure can deliver a mean tail whip.” She said. Twilight meanwhile couldn’t come up with a response for several seconds, until she decided to point out the obvious. “So, we’re just going to ignore the fact that she has wings and pony ears, and a ponytail? And where have you been since Saturday night?” She asked. “Just…WHAT is going on here?!” She asked. “Honestly? I’m not sure. But I can surmise that it’s irreversible.” Daydream said. “So…You’re just…now in the mortal realm forever?” Sparkler asked. “I think so.” Daydream said. “Not that I mind.” Sparkler, Twilight, and Sunset looked at each other again, all thinking the same thing. Anything ELSE come out of Saturday night that we haven’t found yet? To be continued next time…