The Return of Sunset Shimmer

The date was October 26, 2013, two months after I met my beloved Trixie Lulamoon. On that day, we both had taken a trip down to the cities, and to the grand Mall of America. I had bought a few souvenirs, namely some manga that me and Trixie would like to read later on. But fate directed a lost, confused stranger to us.

After eating at a restaurant, Trixie had to go to the bathroom. While I waited, I heard pained whimpering. Looking through the crowd, I saw a familiar face...an orange-yellow unicorn pony with a red mane, painted with streaks of yellow. Her cutie mark resembled a sun, half yellow and half red.

I recognized this pony as the infamous Sunset Shimmer, once a student of Princess Celestia, until her desire for power and to be a Princess without going through the same rite that Twilight had been through removed her from her own studies permanently. But she used the forbidden magic of a mirror, the gateway to an alternate world, to fuel her own desires for power.

Twilight had gone through that mirror to retrieve her stolen crown, one of the Elements of Harmony, which Sunset had decided would grant her the power to take over Equestria. In the time she spent in that other world, Twilight and her dragon assistant, as well as her almost-brother Spike re-befriended several human versions of her own closest friends; Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. Together, the Human Six (human versions of the Mane Six, mind you) were able to defeat Sunset Shimmer and bring the crown back to Equestria. Before leaving for home, Twilight entrusted her human friends to teach Sunset the joys of friendship, believing that the now-regretful unicorn deserved a second chance.

Yet here she was, scared and with almost-visible ribs from severe lack of nutrition, and dark circles under her eyes, obviously from lack of sleep as well. What could have happened to this poor unicorn, and how did she get here?

I calmly called her name. “Sunset! Sunset Shimmer!” She turned and looked at me, surprised that only I could see her, as much as I could see my Trixie. But she was still scared and uncertain until I reached down to pet her. Thankfully, no one in public noticed me petting an invisible pony, but the feeling of affection began to calm her down. “It's okay...don't be scared, Miss Shimmer.” “Who...who are you? H-how do you know my name?” Sunset asked, suddenly full of curiosity about this human that could notice her, and feel her.

At that moment, Trixie had finished washing her hooves and exited the bathroom, now seeing us interact. “Joe, what's...who is...what...” Trixie almost came to the conclusion that I had been hitting on a new pony, until I put a finger to her muzzle. “Trixie, we need to find someplace quiet. This poor unicorn's in trouble.”

We went into an empty hallway, where Sunset (after we gave her some food from a vending machine) began to explain. “I...I don't quite remember...all I can recall is that I disobeyed Princess Celestia, and dove into the mirror.”

Trixie and I grimaced at the memory.

“But that's...that's all I can recall...the last thing that happened, I stumbled out of a window from a house, and have wandered for days...I don't know where I am, and I don't know why I'm full of regret for my actions! I...I want to go home...” Sunset's eyes began to well up with tears.

Trixie put a gentle hoof on her face. “Shh...take it easy, Shimmer. Whatever you've been through changed you, but I believe we can help you.” Sunset looked at her. “What do you mean?” “Well...at the moment, my boyfriend and I...yes, I'm his marefriend, long story...we're on vacation, but you're welcome to tag along until we get home tomorrow night.”

“You see, in his apartment he has this mirror that leads to Equestria. There's a catch, though: the portal only opens when a pony holds a certain gem near it, like a key. My new friendship ring has bits of the gem in it, so I can come and go anytime I wish, usually I will if he's at work and I don't have anything to do.”

Sunset looked stunned. “You...fell in love with a human?!”

I sighed. “Look, it's...it's a long story, and there's other people like me whose love for mares embraces the very form of infinity. I'm sure there's some that hold a deep admiration of you, but we'll get to that some other time.”

Trixie cleared her throat. “Anyway, I don't mean to interrupt, but I can get you back home, safe and sound. I'll even have Princess Twilight talk things over with Princess Celestia-”

Sunset cowered in fear. “P-P-Princess Celestia? Oh, sweet Luna no, anypony but her! I don't want to face her wrath after what I did! I'd rather take Discord when he's angry!”

Trixie put a hoof on her again, stroking her mane gently. “Shh...don't be scared. If Princess Twilight forgave you during that incident, then surely Celestia wouldn't hold a wicked grudge either.”

We spent the remainder of our vacation together, chatting and laughing, just having a good time. Eventually, we took the train and bus back home. As soon as I unlocked my apartment door, Trixie led Sunset into the bathroom, but not before turning to me and saying “Don't worry, hon. I'll make sure she gets back safely, and so will I.” “I love you, Trixie.” I said.

With a smile, Trixie opened the mirror in the bathroom, keeping it open for Sunset to step through before following.

The two mares found themselves climbing out of a pond, surrounded by dark trees and fireflies.

“Is this...?” Sunset asked. “Yep, the Everfree Forest. I practiced my magic, and that's how I found the gem, and eventually, my love.” Trixie explained. “Come on, Ponyville's just down this path.”

They both trotted down a clear path leading out of the woods, coming down towards a large tree, serving as Golden Oaks Library. Applejack was just finishing up with her own grocery shopping at the marketplace when she spotted Trixie.

“Evenin', Miss Lulamoon. How's everythin' goin' with...” Applejack started greeting her when she noticed Sunset. “Trixie...ya'll know that's Sunset right behind ya, right?” she asked, sternly.

“Yes, but...”

Applejack stomped up towards Sunset. “Ah should've known ya'll would have the nerve to come back to Equestria. Pretty sneaky there, stealing Twilight's crown and leaving our world defenseless! And now ya'll came back expectin' revenge? Well, ah'll have ya know, we don't take kindly to bullies 'round here!”

As Sunset shook violently under her glare, Trixie put a hoof up to Applejack. “Applejack, please! Just...find Princess Twilight and bring the girls to the library. I'll explain things.”

Half an hour later, the Mane Six arrived at the library, where they listened to Trixie's story.

“And then we climbed through the portal back to Equestria.” Trixie finished.

“Gosh, that sounds like you've been through a lot.” Twilight said.

“Sounds awful.” Fluttershy said.

“Well, at least you're not a big McMeanie anymore.” Pinkie chirped.

“It must have been dreadful, half-starving for days.” Rarity consoled.

“Yeah, but I'm not that convinced she's turned a new leaf.” Rainbow Dash shot a glare.

“Rainbow!” Twilight scolded.

“No...I'm sorry...I never expected any sort of forgiveness.” Sunset bemoaned, head still facing the ground.

Twilight put a hoof around her. “It's okay, you're still Sunset. And I still trust that you really do want to learn about friendship?”

Sunset sniffled. “Y-yes...but I'm also...homeless. I may be back in this world, but I don't have a house. I lived in Canterlot, but Princess Celestia must have sold it...”

Twilight gave her a quick hug. “I'll take you to Canterlot and explain things to the Princess. If you still don't have a home, you're welcome to stay with me and Spike. Speaking of which...” Spike had fixed the girls, Sunset and Trixie included, some alfalfa crackers with ground-up daisies, which he brought from the kitchen (at the request of Rarity, too). “Spike, would you mind taking a letter?”

“Of course!” Spike grabbed a scroll and quill.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

I am writing to inform you that your former student, Sunset Shimmer, has returned to Equestria with the help of Trixie. I will be bringing her back to Canterlot tomorrow morning, where I will explain the situation. From the sounds of things, it seems like Sunset had been through an awful lot, and requests your love and support, if you're still willing to give it to her. She's afraid you'll punish her, but I hope you show a little mercy to her, at least.

Your Faithful Student, Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

Spike breathed on the letter, its magic heading to Canterlot at high speed.

“Now, Applejack. Is there anything you'd like to say to Sunset?” Twilight asked.

“Gosh, ah'm awfully sorry about accusin' yah like that. Ah thought yah'll came back to backstab us, ah didn't realize how much trauma ya'll've been in.” Applejack said, frowning.

“It...it's okay...I deserved those words.” Sunset said, dragging a hoof on the ground.

Rarity stopped her. “Now see here, darling. If anypony was the Element of Forgiveness, she'd already give it to you. We've already given Trixie a chance since her redemption, so you should have the same.”

“Well, girls, I'd best get things ready for Sunset. Thank you all so much for coming over, and thank you, Trixie, for bringing her back.”

“It's no problem, Your Majesty.”

Twilight giggled. “Oh, there's no need to be so formal. Just because I'm a Princess doesn't mean that I need constant labeling.”

Trixie smiled, relieved that things were going to be okay. “Well, I should probably get back home. My dear Joe has a tendency to worry if I'm gone for more than a day.”

“Come back anytime!” Pinkie Pie hopped as she snarfed down the last of her flower snack, with Applejack holding her down to avoid any more messes.

Trixie left the library and headed back into the portal within the forest.

The next morning, Sunset awoke in her guest bed. Realizing what day it was, she was both happy, yet worried. On the one hoof, she was going to see Princess Celestia. On the other, she still feared punishment after the crown's theft months ago.

Twilight and Sunset took the next train straight to Canterlot, where the guards at the royal palace greeted their new Princess. Celestia herself stood in the throne room, awaiting their arrival.

“Your Highness.” Twilight curtsied, as best a pony could. Sunset almost forgot her manners and bowed quickly.

“My dear student, I thank you for bringing Sunset Shimmer back home.”

Twilight told the entire story, all the while Sunset fidgeted nervously. In a few moments, she feared punishment would be swift and painful, but tried to comfort herself regardless with the other girls' words from last night.

“I see.” Celestia nodded. “I must attend to Sunset. You may return to Ponyville if you wish.”

Twilight smiled, confident that things would be all right. “Yes, your Highness.” Twilight began to walk away, but not before turning and telling Sunset “Don't worry. Everything's okay.”

After Twilight left, Celestia looked down at Sunset. “I understand that you must be scared, and very regretful of your actions.” Sunset's eyes began to well up with tears. “Now, young mare. I'm glad you have returned home, wishing to put the past behind you. However, as I said before you disappeared years ago, I cannot allow you to remain as my student.”

Sunset's mood didn't change. “I know.” She then felt a warm glow as Celestia nuzzled her.

“But I am still keeping the other promise I made, that you would stay in Canterlot as your home.”

Sunset's ears perked up. Did this mean...?

Celestia walked over to her storage chest, and levitated a small key with her magic, presenting to Sunset. “This is your house key, I've kept it safe for you in the hopes of your return. I won't allow you to live on the streets like an orphan.”

Sunset's tears began to flow, but this time from joy. “You mean...I still have a home after all?”

Celestia smiled, the very sight filling Sunset's heart with hope. “It has remained locked since your disappearance, so everything should be as it was. However, your food most likely has spoiled, but I am willing to offer expenses to clean it all up and restock.”

Sunset couldn't take it anymore, and quickly hugged the Princess. Celestia was in a slight shock, but returned the hug nonetheless.

“Th...thank you...Princess.” Sunset sobbed.

“It is all right, my dear. I will send some guards to help you with everything you need for supplies and cleaning.”

Two pegasi in armor walked up to Sunset, stern but calm.

“I promise, I'll be a better mare than I ever was! I'll even get a job in Canterlot! And...if Trixie's right...maybe I'll find a boyfriend someday.”

Celestia's motherly smile didn't change as she saw her student transform from a spoiled brat, into a humble mare. “I hope so, too.”

As the guards helped Sunset out of the throne room, the unicorn's mind was filled with thoughts of the future, before bumping into a pegasus guard with the nearly the same fur color as her own, only sporting a blue mane and tail. “Oh, I'm sorry!” she quickly apologized.

The guard grinned. “It's alright, a lot of ponies seem to have a habit of bumping into me.”

Sunset looked at him.

“Um...is everything okay, miss Shimmer?” the guard asked.

“Sorry...it's just that you look like...somepony I once knew.” Sunset said.

“Well, I get off at eight tonight, maybe we could...I dunno, get some tea or something?” he offered.

“S-sure. What's your name?” Sunset asked.

“Flash. Flash Sentry.”

Sunset's eyes widened. “That's...that's a nice name.” she relaxed, and blushed.

Everything was looking up for her.

THE END