Equestria Girls: The Resurrection of Sombra

Chapters

Sunset Shimmer
Adagio
Sombra
Among Friends I
Among Friends II
The King is a Part Timer

Sunset Shimmer

Principal Celestia smiled and very kindly said, “Im sorry to have asked you to come here so suddenly Sunset, but my sister has brought to my attention something very unusual, and I thought you could help us.” Sunset Shimmer looked over to Vice-Prinicpal Luna standing beside her sister, looking back at Sunset with a stern look. She seemed upset, but Luna always appeared upset when around the students; but when she carried that look around Celestia, Sunset knew something was wrong. She sat straight in her chair, suppressing a nervous tremor in her leg.

“Sunset, given your unique situation, I believe my sister and I have been quite generous. I can’t say Im entirely comfortable knowing the school grounds are a portal to a world we know little about, but I have full faith in both you and your friends, and have upheld my promise to keep the matter a secret between us.”

The portal. Sunset thought about the old statue in front of the school. A portal to another world, full of wonders found only the imaginings of fanciful daydreamers. A place where Sunset had a home and a family, and a friend she had abandoned out of spite; where she had found the mirror and first encountered human life.

And treated them like dirt, she thought. I came into a school full of innocent people going about their lives, people who didn't know me, yet treated me with some dignity, and I spat at them, cursed them, and made them afraid of me. I made myself a queen of my own little fiefdom, with subjects who hated me, and wanted me gone forever.

Then the portal opened, and I did leave, but came back worse than ever. Worse because I now had the power to take away the very things that made them so precious. But Twilight stopped me, and everything crumbled away. I made amends, and regained the trust of everyone I hurt. I made friends; we lounged at the bakery, watched movies, took pictures together. I was given the chance to be a normal girl.

But Sunset knew, even as she thought about it, that she wasn't normal. She was a unicorn who came to this world through the portal, bringing with her the magic of Equestria. Even her friends were affected, permanently changed into magical beings. Then there were the Sirens, drawn by the magic she brought through the portal. And there was Twilight Sparkle.

“Sunset, have you been in contact with Miss Twilight Sparkle?” asked Celestia.

Sunset nodded.

“And can you confirm if she is here in Canterlot High?”

Sunset looked at Celestia, confused. If Twilight was here, she thought, she would have told me.

“What I meant to ask is if Miss Twilight is back in her own world, or here.”

“She shouldn't be here,” said Sunset, “and she’s Princess Twilight.” She did not know why she felt a need to correct Celestia. It simply seemed right.

“I apologize, but Luna recently had a rather interesting conversation with Princess Twilight.”

Sunset looked towards Luna, stunned. It was impossible, she thought; but they wouldn't call her here just to lie. I should speak up, tell her its some kind of mistake. She kept quiet.

“I met her earlier today,” said Luna, “wandering the grounds. She looked a great deal like your Princess, almost identical even; but she didn't seem to recognize me, and was quite surprised when I introduced myself.”

Sunset felt a shiver running through her like cold air running from her neck to her toes. Sunset felt her back tremble, and her body became rigid; her eyes remained fixed to Luna. Sunset could feel her heart beating faster. She thought of her friends, wishing that they could be here with her.

“Sunset,” said Celestia, “is the girl who Luna encountered Twilight Sparkle?”

Luna had her phone in hand, and Sunset knew their was no point in lying. They already know, she thought, they just need me to say it.

“She is,” said Sunset.

Luna handed Celestia the phone. Sunset felt sick. She knew what was coming. Not looking at her, Celestia asked, “And can I assume there is a Sunset Shimmer?”

Sunset could not remember how to speak. She wanted to lie, to wail, to plead and beg. She did nothing wrong, she knew it. But will they believe me, she thought. Celestia and Luna watched Sunset sheepishly nodding to them.

“Luna will escort you back to your class,” said Celestia. “We’ll continue this conversation after school.”

Sunset walked out of the office with Luna. She started down the hall, but stopped. I need to say something. I can't leave it like this.

“Sunset,” said Luna, “I want you to understand that my sister and I, are responsible for every student in this school, including you. You're not in any kind of trouble.”

Sunset was trembling; her voice shook as she spoke. “I didn't know. I didn't know there would be another Twilight.”

“I believe you, and so does my sister. But Celestia and I aren't sure how to handle the matter. We don't want to risk anything that might hurt you, or force you to leave this school.”

Sunset tried to stop trembling, breathing evenly.

“Come back to the office after school. We’ll settle everything then.”

[][][]

She got back to Miss Cheerilee’s class just a few minutes before the lunch bell. She was still a little unsteady.

“Are you alright, Sunset?” asked Miss Cheerilee.

She nodded

“Did something happen?”

She shook her head, and made her way to her seat. The other students were already whispering among themselves. Probably pointless gossip, they didn't know anything.

“Are you alright?” whispered the girl beside her. “Do you need to see the nurse?” Sunset couldn't think of her name.

“Im fine, really,” said Sunset.

“Sunset, Octavia, we're still in class,” said Miss Cheerilee. Octavia, another person she mistreated. Sunset smirked, the girls words floating in her mind.

Miss Cheerilee’s class talked about literature. Sunset doodled on some scrap paper, trying not to think about her conversation with Luna and Celestia. She drew a mountain, with a castle along its side, and a purple unicorn, with wings and a crown. It was a crude picture, almost childish. But it made Sunset smile, and calmed her nerves. The teacher knew, of course, that Sunset wasn't paying attention, but she didn't bother her. She was a good student, and could afford at least one moment to daydream.

The bell rang. Everyone rushed out of the classroom. Some were headed to the computer lab. A few left the school, rushing to the bakery, Sugar Cube Corner. Sunset stretched her hands outward and remembered the first time she saw her fingers. Before she could make a pen float in the air, press it lightly against creamy white paper, and, using nothing but force of will, make it write words more beautifully than anyone in her school. Now her writing was crude and sloppy. Sunset wiggled her fingers. I've been here this long and I'm still having trouble with these.

“Everything alright, Sunset,”

“Yes, Miss Cheerilee”

“You'd best hurry, I hear the Cake’s are selling their lemon muffin surprise today.”

Sunset nodded and got up. The others were already gone. Her friends were probably waiting for her. But their were also people waiting for her in the hallway, bad people. They could say what they wanted. Sunset had no reason to be afraid of them.

It was Adagio, of course. She wasn't anything special, not anymore at least; but she and her friends were also from Equestria, and Sunset knew they still had some magic in them.

“Hey Sunset.”

Just ignore them.

“Heard you got into a bit of trouble with Principal Celestia, figured you needed a friendly ear.”

She’s just being snide. Anything I say will just encourage her.

“Oh come now, their doesn't need to be any bad blood between us. We’re all exiles here. Best to stick together, especially if someone’s poking around.”

Sunset glanced at Adagio. Stay cool, don't give her anything.

“Going outside might not be the best idea,” said Adagio. She wasn't letting up. “Word is someone’s prowling the school, asking all sorts of questions. It’d be a shame if she came across some magical outsider.”

Sunset glared at Adagio, both in anger and fear.

“Oh don't look that way, word travels fast. The girls and I just wanted to make sure you were kept in the loop. Would want to get your story straight before everyone starts asking questions.”

Sunset reached out to grab Adagio. She wanted her to shut up. But Adagio pulled away in time. Her friends grabbed ahold of Sunset.

Sunset did not want Adagio to know she was scared, but her voice gave out.

“Don’t you dare.”

“You don't have to be so dramatic, I would never betray one of our own.”

“I'm not a tone-deaf seahorse.”

Now it was Adagio who wanted to hurt Sunset, but she kept her composure. Her friends let go of Sunset and the three left to the cafeteria.

“Just be careful, not to get caught. Or they might ask what happened to the real Sunset Shimmer.”

For a moment, Sunset couldn't move. Then she remembered her friends and left to the bakery. They were all wondering what kept her. Sunset, however, was trying to figure out if they knew about what happened. If they didn't then she needed to keep calm, otherwise they would know that something was wrong. Then they’ll ask questions. But if they did know, then they were waiting for the right moment to bring up the subject.

So Sunset walked by herself to the register, and placed her order. The cashier politely listened, and cashing her order, handed her a receipt along with a ticket number. The cashier was new, and Sunset didn't feel like sitting down with her friends with Adagio’s words still in her head.

The cashier handed Sunset her coffee and smiled.

“Did you need something else, ma’m?” he said.

“Oh no, sorry,” said Sunset. She needed to talk about something, anything to distract herself. “I haven't seen you around. Are you new here?”

“Just moved here, I'm transferring to Canterlot High.”

“Thats great, most of the people here are from there. Its a really great school.”

“So I've heard. Especially from the pink lady over there.”

“Are you an exchange student or something?”

“Something like that.”

Sunset was happy. The cashier didn't seem to mind small talk. Sunset glanced at her coffee, then at the cashier. He had a kind face. Sunset smiled, stifling a giggle. He kinda looks like Fluttershy.

A bell rang. “Oh, I'm sorry, your order’s ready,” he said.

Sunset had not intended to put her hands on the cashier’s, but when she reached for the bag carrying her purchase, her fingers grazed his, and she felt a sudden burst of energy traveling through her body. The cashier had faded away from her view, replaced by a large, winged, white unicorn, looking angrily down at her. Tears were traveling down her cheeks, and Sunset immediately got on her knees pleading with the pony.

“I'm sorry, I shouldn't have left. I just wanted to be a better student.”

The pony glared at her mercilessly and spoke,“Its not me you have to apologize to.”

Then Sunset was looking at herself, a much angrier version of herself. She grabbed Sunset by the collar of her jacket, tears rolling down her eyes.

“You cant just come and steal someone else's life.”

“I-I didn't mean to.”

“This was suppose to be my life, my friends, and you stole them from me.”

The images faded away and Sunset was again looking at the cashier. A second had not even passed, but Sunset did not know this. She wordlessly took the bag with her and seated herself with her friends. Applejack sat beside her, looking, with concern, at an almost catatonic Sunset Shimmer.

“Hey, are you alright?” she asked.

Sunset laid her head against the table, cushioned by her arms and cried. I'm just like the Sirens. Take my magic and my friends away, and I'm just like them.

Adagio

“I’m sorry Sombra,” said Mrs. Cake, “I know your shift’s almost over, but Aria’s running a little late.” Her attention was divided between him and the swarm of customers forcing themselves into the shop.

Sombra closed the door behind him, carrying a sack of flour. “Its alright, I still have time before the bus comes.”

“Then maybe you can hand Mr. Cake the flour so you can help.” Aria barely squeezed herself through the crowd, eagerly dropping her bag onto the floor; it landed on the ground with a heavy thud.

Sombra did not see Aria as the beautiful young girl that others saw, with lush, purple, hair and a face that could have belonged to a model. Sombra looked at Aria only to detect anger or boredom, the signs that revealed just how much she hated her job. Now, as the crowd became more dense, Aria’s frustration became more visible.

Mrs. Cake saw it too. “I’m really sorry Sombra,” she said, trying to to keep things in order before the rush became overwhelming.

But Sombra would not let the tension get to him. “Its alright, I can stick around a bit longer. Besides the bus doesn't show up for at least an hour.”

This is all right, Sombra thought. Mrs. Cake is a nice person, she’ll pay me for the overtime; and if I miss the bus, I can talk with some of the people here while I wait.

“Then get the next register,” barked Aria.

He was going to put out a great deal of work, Sombra knew this. It was not a question of how many customers they would have. People from Canterlot High always came to Sugar Cube Corner, whole groups of them, and he, along with everyone else, would work tirelessly to keep the line moving at a steady pace. But that meant the bakery always had business, and Sombra’s pay was consistent. So he wouldn't let himself be stressed, just because he had to work a few extra hours. It just meant more money for him.

Sombra cashed orders, while Aria registered them on the pad. Mrs. Cake had talked with Aria about smiling towards the customer. Sombra couldn't imagine Aria smiling. Her attitude was cold and blunt. She made no effort to hide it. If she hates this job, she would have quit by now. Something was keeping her here, and although Sombra couldn't confirm this, it made Aria into something more compassionate.

The rush was finally over, and Sombra was able to check out of the bakery. Although he had missed the bus, Sombra could look forward to a bigger paycheck. He sat alone, by the window. The few people that remained were conversing in their own little worlds. This must be what friends do after school, thought Sombra. Do they always come here? Maybe they go to the movies, or help each other study. When they graduate, will they still be friends?

And what happens when they argue? Make up probably. No sense throwing away friendships over silly fights.

“Excuse me”

Someone was looking over Sombra. He didn't see her coming. Suddenly he was staring at a young girl, with curly, orange, hair, and a kind smile. She was incredibly pretty.

“Mind if I sit here?” she said.

“N-Not at all,” said Sombra.

“Sorry by way,” she said. “All the other seats were taken.”

“Its alright.” Sombra scrambled to find something else to say. “My names Sombra by the way.”

He inwardly wanted to kick himself for making such a blunt statement, but the young girl didn't seem to mind.

“Adagio. Im a friend of Aria. Poor thing forgot her lunch running all the way over here.”

“Really. I haven't been here very long so we haven't spoken much.” That was a lie. Aria had made it tacitly clear she didn't want to make conversation with him.

Adagio smirked. She knew Sombra was lying to her, and the boy was prepared to apologize when she spoke.

“Aria’s hardly the social type, but thanks for being nice.”

Adagio adjusted her seat, and then leaned closer to Sombra, her foot just inches away from his. She looked more and more intently at Sombra. It made the boy blush.

“Can’t say I've seen you around here before, though I don't come here often,” said Adagio.

Sombra was thinking of a response. The girl was much closer than he wanted. Adagio might have been flirting with him. Probably not. Maybe she was just being playful; but it could mean something good.

“Hey,” someone shouted from the doorway.

Adagios smile quickly evaporated, and a blue-haired girl walked to stand beside them. Must be a friend of Adagio, thought Sombra, though, looking at Adagio, he may have been wrong.

“Something you need, Sonata?” Adagio seethed.

“Well you forgot Aria’s lunch on the bench,” Sonata explained innocently.

Adagio stared at the bag and glanced at Sombra, seated across from her. She smiled, embarrassed.

“So is this that guy you talked about. How does he work exactly? Does he have a magical switch or something?”

Adagio glared angrily at Sonata, gesturing her to shut her mouth. Sombra looked at the pair, confused by the sudden change in Adagio’s attitude. Sonata didn't seem to understand. Her eyes were still fixed on Sombra. Around his neck, she noticed a cheap necklace, with small curved pendant. She reached out her hand but stopped when Adagio grabbed ahold of her arm, twisting it, as she forced Sonata’s hand back.

“I’m sorry, Sonata can be pretty handsy sometimes.”

“Uh, no problem,” said Sombra. This is getting really weird, he thought.

“See, we’re students at Canterlot High, and the schools abuzz about a new student coming. I didn't recognize you, so I thought maybe.”

“Oh, yes, Im transferring into Canterlot High tomorrow.” Was this the reason why they acting so strangely? It seemed like a great deal of fuss over one person, though Sombra could think of little reason to care.

“I thought it was because…” Sonata was immediately interrupted when Adagio waved a number of bills she pulled from her pocket.

“Go get us some muffins, Sonata,” said Adagio through gritted teeth. Sonata casually, and quietly, accepted the bills and made her way to the register.

“Im sorry about all that. Sonata’s a bit…” Adagio mulled over the proper word to describe her.

“… quirky,” suggested Sombra.

Adagio laughed softly. “Yes, quirky. Please pay her no mind. She’s always like this.”

Adagio tried to say more, but was interrupted when Sombra got up from his seat. Behind her, through the windows, a large bus had passed by, and the boy was slinging his bag over his shoulders.

“I’m sorry, but thats my ride home,” said Sombra. “Maybe I’ll see you around at school.”

“How about I give you a tour of the school? Its sort of a thing we all do there.”

“I’d like that,” said Sombra, while heading towards the door. They waved at each other before Sombra left for the bus. Adagio groaned, looking back at Sonata, who was fiddling with her fingers beside the counter.

She grabbed Sonata by the arm, forcing her to walk with her out of the bakery.

“Could you be any more dense?” shouted Adagio.

“What’d I say?” asked Sonata.

“That little nobody is the key to getting our Equestrian magic back, and you had to stomp in and nearly ruin our chances. Don't you understand how lucky we are?”

“You don't even know if has Equestrian magic? I mean you bumped into this guy one time. Are you sure it wasn't a fluke, maybe?”

Adagio glared angrily at her, more so than Sonata thought was possible. Adagio grabbed Sonata by the collar of her sweater pulling her within inches of her face.

“This wasn't a fluke. He has Equestrian magic. More importantly, he has magic we can get to. But we need to be extra careful, otherwise we’ll lose whatever chance we have of restoring our power. Or maybe you like sounding like a tone deaf seahorse.”

Neither of them enjoyed losing their ability to sing, and it was all the more painful when they realized just how greatly they depended on their magic. Even their basic needs depended on their ability to sing, and Sonata knew that, if they could get their powers back, she and her friends could, at least, not have to struggle so much. Sonata smiled sheepishly, hoping to soothe Adagio before she could lash out at her.

Adagio calmed down, trying her best to breath evenly. The stress is getting to me, she thought, I can't let myself fall apart like this. She let go of Sonata, smoothing out her collar. Sonata’s right, it could have been a fluke, and Sombra really is just some nobody she bumped into. But if it wasn’t, she thought, then we can have our magic back. We wont have to deal with these people anymore. I don't need them to adore me, she thought, just let me be able to control them again.

Adagio and Sonata said nothing as they walked back home. The wind was picking up, and Adagio could see that Sonata was getting chilly. These are cheap sweaters, she thought. I should have put out for something better. She leaned closer to Sonata, hoping that somehow it would make her warmer. Ill fix this, she thought, and then we wont have to be cold anymore.

Back at the bakery, Aria was on break. Seated by the window, eating the muffins Sonata bought for herself, she peered inside the brown, paper bag.

It was full of damp dirt.

Sombra

It was late into the evening when Sunset left the school. She kept thinking about Celestia and Luna. Facing Twilight Sparkle was obviously out of the question, but there were no other options. What do they do. Probably nothing, but they couldn't be sure. Maybe it would all blow over, and this worlds Twilight would decide to leave them alone.

I wish my friends were here, thought Sunset. They could probably drum up a few ideas. Maybe I should message Twilight*. No, that’ll probably make it worse.

Sunset walked over to the statue, tracing her hand alongside the hard stone. In Canterlot there was a store that sold delicious oat-burgers. Sunset would eat their often, absorbed in her books, always trying to learn more. I’ve learned a lot here too, she thought. She also learned how much she missed Equestria.

“Sunset Shimmer”

Sunset looked over her shoulder, and spotted a bespectacled girl standing a fair distance. Her clothing and her hair was different, but Sunset knew immediately who she was. She considered looking away, and putting as much distance between herself and Twilight as possible. No, that’s too obvious, but what do I say; do I just lie. Yes, she thought, I’m good at lying. I can just lie to her too.

“Can I help you?” she asked softly.

“I saw you leaving, and I wanted to ask if the Principal was still in the building.”

“Sorry, you just missed her.” It felt awkward lying to someone with the same face as her friend. Just keep at it, then she’ll go home.

“Then you’re all alone,” said Twilight. “I would have thought your friends would be here waiting for you.”

Sunset became nervous. She had expected Twilight to leave, not mention her friends. Was she purposefully waiting for me?

“Do you know about anything strange happening in this school? Maybe met with someone weird?”

Sunset relaxed a bit. She didn't know what to say, and she was afraid to reveal herself to be one of the weird things Twilight was asking her about. Just keep lying, she thought, she can’t know anything your not willing to tell her.

“I’m willing to overlook the fact that your being here is a sign that Celestia’s hiding something,” said Twilight, her voice becoming more stern. “But I’ll should mention I know a good deal about you. You’re obviously not from around here.”

“I’m not,” said Sunset. Give her some line, let her think she’s winning.

“Might I ask where your from?”

“Out of town.”

Twilight huffed. “That’s pretty vague.”

“Well I don't make a habit blabbing my life story with strangers.”

“Miss Luna seemed to know me. She mentioned my name.”

“I’m not Vice-Principal Luna.” Hold the line, let her tire herself out.

Twilight glared at Sunset. This was leading nowhere. Best pull before she gets angsty.

“Look, I have to get home,” Sunset began.

But Twilight rushed to get in front of her. She held out her arms, seemingly blocking Sunset’s exit. “Look, I don’t care who you are, or where you came from. But your school is on the precipice of disaster. I’ve come here to put a stop to it.”

Sunset looked at the double, puzzled. Twilight’s statement came off as though she had read it from a poorly written script.

“Precipice of disaster?”

“You know, threshold, brink,” Twilight said. “The point is everyone here is in danger and it all points to you.”

Twilight had a pointed finger bare inches from Sunset’s chest. The girls outburst sent a flurry of anger into Sunset Shimmer, but she couldn't bring herself to snap back at her. What does this girl think I am, she thought, some kind of monster. She knew she couldn't physically do anything to Twilight; she too closely resembled her friend to incite anything greater than a scolding. Stay cool Sunset, just spook her a bit and get out of there.

“I don’t know what your problem is,” she said coldly, “but you had better point your finger somewhere else. I’ve had enough trouble as it is without some egghead coming at me out of nowhere.”

It worked. Twilight immediately put her hands down on her sides. Sunset was a bit proud to know she could still be intimidating; but at the same time she felt a twinge of self-disgust.

“I’m sorry,” said Twilight softly. “I wasn’t trying to accuse of anything. But something weird is happening in this school, and you’re one of the newest students here.”

Sunset inwardly steeled herself. Was she baiting me? Maybe I was a bit too harsh. Sunset looked closely at Twilight. She wasn’t like the Twilight she knew in Equestria. She seemed less confident, more sheltered.

“Look I’m not some sort of raging she-demon,” said Sunset. “and while Canterlot High’s not the most normal school, I’m pretty sure no one’s out to hurt anybody.”

“You’re wrong,” said Twilight. Her voice had become more desolate.

Sunset was confused. What was Twilight getting at?

Twilight smirked mockingly at Sunset. “It must suck being that ignorant, not even realizing when something bad’s about to happen.”

“What are…” Sunset began.

“I don’t know how,” Twilight interrupted, “but you brought something here; an evil spirit. An evil spirit that wanders about the world, and is now here. You saw him too didn’t you, at the bakery.”

Sunset felt her stomach knotting. She was about to mention the cashier. But she held her tongue. There were no such things as evil spirits, not here or in Equestria. This was just stupid garbage being blurted out by some lookalike in glasses. But what if it was magic. It was possible. She brought Equestrian magic into the human world, and twice was it unleashed. Maybe it was having an effect on the town. Maybe it did something to that guy in the bakery. Sunset didn't like it. She wasn't suppose to be the bad guy anymore.

“It happened a long time ago. He was dying from disease. His friends and family had abandoned him, and left him to slowly decay. He cursed the unfairness of his circumstances, and continued to wander the world as a spirit. He always appears to people, kind and honest. The most wonderful person you could hope to meet. Then he sheds his facade and reveals himself as a monster.”

“You’re crazy,” snapped Sunset. It was too weird. She needed to get away from her.

“You saw it though, when he touched you!” shouted Twilight. “It always happen when you touch him. That’s when you see it. Suffering, pain, hate, sorrow; all the awful emotions you would try and keep buried inside, not letting anyone know you feel them. That’s what you see when you get too close to him. That’s the sort of monster he is.”

Twilight stepped closer to Sunset, her eyes hard but fearful. “That’s what you’re inviting into this school!”

Twilight was visibly shaking, trying to hold in tears. Sunset didn't respond when Twilight grabbed ahold of her jacket. She wanted to say something; anything to calm Twilight. But, somehow, she felt she had no right to console her.

“Look,” said Twilight, her voice becoming steady, “I’m not trying to cause trouble. But I can’t allow myself to do nothing. Please, if you know anything, please, just tell me.”

What am I suppose to say, thought Sunset. If there is some evil spirit wandering the town, its probably some sort of dark magic. But aside from the Sirens, whose magic Sunset had stripped away from, she knew no one capable of such magic. And that made her afraid.

Twilight recollected herself, pulling off her glasses to rub her eyes.

“I’m not going away,” she said. “Not until he’s gone.”

Before leaving she looked angrily at Sunset Shimmer and spoke. “I don’t know what you are, but I know you’re not human. If I find out you had anything to do with this, I’m taking you down.”

Sunset stood frozen beside the statue, watching Twilight walking further and further away. The bespectacled girl walked alone, alongside the sidewalk, passing two people before reaching Sugar Cube Corner. A bus had stopped close by the building, and as Twilight made her way to it, she noticed a figure close by. Immediately she felt a surge of disgust build in her stomach, and try as she might, could only barely conceal the fear she felt standing so close to it. She watched the figure board the bus, seating herself as the bus drove away. Laying back, she shut her eyes, holding back tears.

[][][][]

It was only after Twilight disappeared from view that Sunset made her way home. Along the way, her thoughts remained fixed to Twilight. She remembered the anger in Twilight’s face, and her thoughts drifted to the winged unicorn.

“Sweet Celestia, I’m so sorry.” Tears rolled along Sunset’s cheeks.

“I shouldn't have ever come here.”

Among Friends I

They say you get nervous when visiting new places, especially when it was so far from your comfort zone. But Sombra had been nervous before he arrived at Canterlot High. Before he had moved into town.

Crowds of students were already headed into the school. Some arrived by bus, some by car; others had walked from home. They talked, and joked, and bragged, and laughed. Sombra kept quiet. He noticed how some of the other students were peering at him. Fresh meat. Everything he did at this point meant something. Sombra hoped to make a good first impression.

He toyed with the idea of striking up conversation with one of the other students. But he couldn’t think of anything to say. His brief bits of chitchat with Aria Blaze were the closest he had to regular conversation with someone his own age. Whatever they were laughing about was probably something Sombra couldn’t understand.

He had dressed himself in a navy blue long sleeve, with old denim jeans; it felt funny not wearing his usual uniform. He felt baggy and seedy, dressed like that. His shirt was large for his size and exaggerated his thin frame. The students were wearing clean, well kept clothes. Some were simple, almost like Sombra’s. Others were gaudy and clearly worn to draw attention. The gaudy ones moved slowly, catlike, so everyone could see them. Sombra caught himself rushing into the school. He wanted nothing to do with those people.

Sombra was near the last, but not the very last, to find his classroom. The other students were already seating themselves. He thought of taking a seat, but didn't know if the students were arranged by seat, or if they could choose freely. He thought to wait for the teacher, and imagined himself standing by himself in the front of the classroom. He didn’t want to draw attention to himself.

“Better if you don’t sit in the back,” said Sonata. She was standing next to Sombra. “The guys who sit there smell worse than moldy old cheese.”

“You’re in my class?” asked Sombra.

“Well duh, why else would I be here,” said Sonata. “Oh, and Adagio wanted me to tell you we would be getting together at the cafeteria. You should count yourself lucky. Taco Tuesday’s are the best.” She smiled.

Sombra smiled back. He felt comfortable with Sonata. Sonata was good. And she was a friendly face. Sombra relaxed a little. He had friends here.

The teacher ordered the students still standing to be seated. Then they waited for a few hour, pretending to pay attention to lectures regarding mathematics, world history, and their possible future following graduation. Very boring stuff. Sonata had fallen asleep on her desk.

Sombra’s desk was beside the window. He could see a caterpillar chewing on leaves, and it made him smile. He had not been here for more than a day, and was already seated beside someone he considered a friend.

The other students had already left when the bell rang for lunch. Sombra and Sonata stopped by the doorway of the cafeteria, looking for Aria and Adagio. Sure enough, the two girls were headed in their direction. For a moment, it occurred to Sombra that he would be the only boy among his newfound group of friends. Yet he couldn't very well oust them over something so foolish as gender.

So he smiled broadly and waved to the pair.

They all seated themselves, leaving just enough room for Sonata’s overfull trays. Adagio had seated herself next to Sombra, smiling at him sweetly. Sombra glanced at the lunch line, and then back at Adagio. He blushed. Then he fiddled with his pendant and made his first attempt at small talk. The girls laughed, though Sonata had more difficulty doing so with her mouth full of food.

They talked about classes, school gossip, and all the other rot spewed out of the mouths of disinteresting teenagers. Then they became more personal. Adagio mentioned that she and her friends were once talented singers, but had overtime lost their prized talent. Sombra would have enjoyed hearing Adagio sing, but when he inquired as to why she didn't take classes, she vaguely explained their situation as being complicated.

Sombra thought to push the matter, but the look of dejection he had received from Adagio held his tongue. He wanted to say something uplifting, but was interrupted by Sonata.

“So where are you from?” she asked.

“Oh, from the next town over.”

“Wow, must suck living so far away.”

“He doesn’t actually live there,” said Aria grumpily. “I told you he moved here.”

“Sorry,” said Sonata sarcastically. “I was just going by what he said.”

“Well maybe you’d go by what I say if you weren’t the worst.”

“You’re the worst Aria. You even ate the muffins I bought knowing that they weren’t for you.”

Adagio and Sombra watched as the pairs little argument descended into childish mocking.

“So what brought you here?” asked Adagio calmly.

Sombra had paused to look at Adagio for a brief moment, before he realized he had been asked a question.

“My parents mostly. Couldn’t really tell you why they chose to come here. Don’t really know myself.”

“Must be awful to have to leave. Your friends back home must be devastated.”

“Can’t say I really had any friends back there. I wasn’t in the best shape. And after a while I kinda lost touch with them. I don’t even remember their faces.”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to bring up something so personal.” Still, Adagio found herself getting excited. Talking was something Adagio was good at. She and her friends knew this. Aria even pointed it out once. Adagio could persuade other people to her point of view. She could convince them they wanted what she wanted them to want. She could control, in a way, what they wanted to do. To get her teachers to do what she wanted. To get people to help her in her “time of need.” And now to get Sombra to open up to her. This is what she thought as Sombra spoke: You were all alone, but now you have me. And you won’t ever have to be alone again.

“It happens though,” said Sombra. “Friends lose touch after a while. And, to be honest, I’m kinda glad we all moved here. Gives me a chance to make a fresh start.”

“And make some new friends,” said Adagio. She knew the direction they were headed, and she thought she could tighten her grip.

“I guess so,” said Sombra.

I know so, Sombra. “You guess?” asked Adagio. “I’d like to think we’ve all become good friends.”

She was alluding to Aria and Sonata, whose little squabble had ended with Aria having a dollop of sour cream on her cheek. She immediately registered the idiocy of it all, and diverted Sombra’s attention back to her.

“From what Aria told me, I had you figured for a nice guy. Can’t say it isn’t difficult for us to make any guy friends.”

“Well you are awfully pretty.”

Sombra blushed in realization of his own words. Adagio laughed at his new features. The boy was so damned dense.

“We do get a lot of flattery from the boys here,” she said. She placed a finger along Sombra’s cheek. “Though it’s nice to know you think so to.”

Sombra’s cheeks turned a bright red. This wasn’t the way it was suppose to go. He was suppose to be talking about simple stuff, like movies, and video games. He was suppose to be making friends, not getting jittery over some girl he knew little about.

“I was just being honest,” said Sombra. This was wrong. Sombra didn’t understand why, but he felt he should get away from her.

But Adagio would not allow Sombra’s little bout of anxiety to tear himself from her. She laid her hand gently on his face, and she watched mesmerized as the boy’s disposition suddenly became relaxed and pliable.

She didn’t think such a thing was possible, until of course she remembered her first encounter with Sombra, meeting him, by chance, while wandering the town. A chance encounter, proof that some sliver of fortune still favored the Sirens.

Adagio was at last reunited with her last remaining hope, contained within the body of this puerile boy. Holding Sombra affectionately, the power that she had withdrew from him was fully aroused. Now she could feel the full presence of his magic. Willful, vicious, and not at all familiar to the energies she drained before. She felt it snake through her body, eliciting a cold, shivering sensation in her spine. A strange sense of displacement crept over her, as reality seemed to bend around the two. The other students seemed frozen in place, their movements slowed almost to a halt. But before the distortion could intensify any further she pulled herself away from him.

In the moment she released Sombra, the displacement dissipated entirely. She gazed vacantly into nothing, marveling at what she had been privileged to experience. She had pursued Sombra, hoping for a return to normalcy, pleading alone to imagined gods for a chance to return what she unfairly took away from her only friends. And in that moment she thought that perhaps some force in this world had heard her pleas, and granted her mercy from her suffering.

But her fanciful musings were interrupted by a high pitched scream. She scrambled to regain her bearing, looking over the huddle of students surrounding the table, their eyes fixed to the ground. Looking down, she saw Sombra collapsed on the ground, breathing heavily, looking deathly at the ceiling.

Adagio shouted, and rushed hastily to lift him up from the floor.

Among Friends II

Sunset Shimmer laid on the grass staring at the open sky. She hadn't had more than five hours of sleep. Her encounter with Twilight Sparkle was still fresh in her mind, and apart of her wished she could forget it. But she didn't, and the thought of Twilight hiding about, watching her, waiting for Sunset to slip up, was more agitating than Sunset realized.

Either fate was being kind today, or Sunset was better at keeping secrets than she thought. Her friends did not once mention Twilight, or inquired about Sunset's meeting with Principal Celestia. She had managed to lie about her little incident at Sugar Cube Corner, and her friends believed her almost immediately. It was better that way. Sunset couldn't bear the thought of telling them the truth; and it made her angry. She shouldn't have to keep such secrets from her friends. But fear lingered in the back of her mind.

How much longer could she keep pretending? Did they already know, and were just being kind to her? Was she lying to them because she was afraid of what they would think, or because she wanted to be the only Sunset Shimmer? Or was it because, deep down, she knew she was responsible for everything that happened to them, and didn't want them realizing all the harm she was doing to them?

The questions bothered her, because she didn't know whether she was protecting her friends, or just herself.

All she was sure of was that somewhere, in the school, there was a monster of sorts hiding about. The "evil spirit" Twilight had mentioned. Sunset couldn't think of any magic in Equestria that could give the impression of a ghost. But this wasn't Equestria; anything was possible.

The bushes rustled. Sunset listened. A shuffling step, and a flash of light.

She lifted herself up, dusting off her skirt and jacket. Twilight was watching her. She didn't say anything , but she knew what to do next. Twilight would continue watching her, and Sunset would show her that there were no such things as evil spirits.

[][][][][]

Sunset was the first to be fully dressed for gym, when the teacher announced free play. She sat alone at the bleachers, watching the other students splitting into different groups. Some were playing at the basketball field, others studied, or ran the track. A few sat together chatting about random nonsense. Sunset looked around. Twilight didn't seem to be here.

She saw someone waving to her; Rainbow Dash. She hadn't expected to see her without her friends in the soccer teams. Usually they had practice sessions during gym. Rainbow ran up to the bleachers, and seated herself beside Sunset Shimmer. She didn't want this. Rainbow had the same look she wore when Scootaloo twisted her ankle. Sunset scooted herself away from Rainbow Dash, just enough to get her distance without appearing withdrawn.

"Hey Rainbow, what's up?" she asked politely.

"Not much," she said lazily. She didn't seem interested in small talk. "Soarin called sick. Doesn't seem to know when to lay off the pie."

"I take it practice was cancelled."

"Eeyup. There mowing the soccer field, so I guess I'll be hanging with you for a bit."

Sunset laughed. It was a hollow laugh, and Rainbow probably saw through it.

"You gonna tell me what's bothering you?"

"What do you mean?"

"Applejack told us you were lying. Girl can spot a fib a mile away."

"I wasn't..." said Sunset, but was cut off by Rainbow Dash.

"Save it. You've been out of it since Celestia called you into her office."

Sunset fell silent. She shouldn't have to worry about Rainbow Dash. She was trying to be her friend, trying to help her. They knew each other for a long time. Rainbow forgave her for the awful things she did. Theres was a friendship more solid than hard steel. Well, why shouldn't it be? We've been through so much together? So tell them the truth.

Sunset fiddled with her fingers, looking around the field. Rainbow placed her hand gently on Sunset's shoulder, causing the skittish girl to tense up. Sunset looked at Rainbow's hand, then to Rainbow Dash herself.

"Look I don't mind if you need your space. But you've been mopey since yesterday. If something's eating you up, you can tell me?"

I can tell you; but I'm afraid of what you'll say when I do. You might curse me, call me a fake; but you might forgive me for lying and help me, and, despite everything, still call me your friend, and look at me with kindness in your eye; in Rainbow's eyes, she might see a friend who really needs her help; whose dealing with something she may not be able to handle alone. I needed them. I needed my friends.

Rainbow scooted closer to Sunset, and she became unfrozen. Rainbow was hugging her, in public. It took a moment for that rare phenomenon to register in Sunset's brain, around the same time when she would realize that there tears running down her cheeks. Rainbow pulled away, regaining her composure before speaking.

"Look, I get it if you can't tell me. I wasn't trying to upset you or anything." Rainbow smiled awkwardly. "Just forget I said anything, kay."

"No," whispered Sunset. "No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have lied to you guys. I should have thought better than to do that to you."

Sunset wiped her face, staring intently at Rainbow Dash. She steeled herself. I have to say it; I have to or I'll never be a true friend to them.

"Rainbow Dash, I..."

Sunset was immediately cut off by a sudden burst of pain in her skull. She clutched her head, feeling the world shaking around her. She watched herself falling to her side, caught by Rainbow Dash, who hugged her close to her chest. Sunset looked up. Rainbow was mouthing something angrily at someone.

[][][][][]

Sunset Shimmer was never angrier than she was in that moment, laying on a bed in the nurses office, staring at the ceiling. She was a few choice words away from opening up to Rainbow Dash; of telling her that somewhere, there was another Sunset Shimmer wandering about; and that a creepy, bespectacled Twilight Sparkle was stalking the school grounds; and, of course, she could not forget to mention the "evil spirit", "haunting" the school just in time for midterms. Instead, she was cutoff, not even mid-sentence, by a baseball that so happened to fly straight onto Sunset's head.

"You alright there?" asked Nurse Redheart, peeking over her clipboard.

"Yes ma'm," replied Sunset.

"I should hope so. Should consider yourself lucky. Most people wind up pretty rattled after a blow like that."

Nurse Redheart had the confidence of nearly every student and teacher in the school. There was talk going about that Redheart had all the credentials to be a full fledged doctor, but dismissed them to be a school nurse. Rumor was, Celestia and Luna offered her a good bargain for her expertise, and, from what Sunset could make of the office, that seemed closest to the truth. The office more closely resembled a miniature clinic, than a typical nurse's office, and it surprised Rainbow Dash when Nurse Redheart dismissed sending Sunset to the hospital.

"Girl's fine," she had said. "Xray didn't show any damage, and she doesn't seem to have a concussion. Just let her sleep it off for a bit and she'll be right as rain."

Sunset looked beside her, and noticed a figure moving behind the bed curtain.

"Don't mind him," said the nurse. "Passed out at the cafeteria a little while ago. Friends brought him her all frantic and sweaty."

"What's wrong with him?"

Redheart shrugged. "Couldn't tell ya really. Might be anemia, but I won't know anything till I get his records." The nurse sighed exasperatedly.

"If I get them."

"Well," she said, "if you want you can run back to class. Except for a bit of tenderness and bruising, you should be fine. Or," she said with good humor, "you can lie back down till the school bell. Day's about to end, and I don't see much point wasting time in some class you'll have to make up anyway, when you can take a nap. Probably do you good."

Sunset smiled. "I'd like that."

Redheart made her way to the door. "I'll just send these papers over to Principal Celestia then. You should be fine on your own, but if you need me, there is a buzzer right by the bedpost."

She opened the door, and already Rainbow Dash and the others were spotted milling around near the entrance. Redheart motioned them to get inside, reminding them to keep quiet. Fluttershy spoke the moment she laid eyes on Sunset. "Oh my, thats looks pretty bad," she said looking over Sunset's bruise.

"It's alright, Nurse Redheart is surprisingly well equipped for this."

"That's an understatement," said Applejack seating herself beside Sunset. "Gal's got enough here to start her own practice."

"But no gift shop," said Pinkie Pie sadly.

"Why on earth would Nurse Redheart need a gift shop?" asked Rarity.

"To keep everyone happy of course," said Pinkie Pie. "How's Sunset suppose to feel better without some balloons or a teddy to hold on to."

"I don't think a teddy bear's gonna help Pinkie," said Rarity.

"A teddy does sound nice though," Fluttershy said softly.

Sunset smiled watching Rarity and Pinkie's brief argument. These were her friends, no doubt about it.

"I bet this guy would have loved a teddy bear," said Pinkie Pie, peeking through the curtains beside Sunset Shimmer's bed.

"Pinkie," said Sunset, "close the curtains. The poor guys trying to sleep."

But Rainbow Dash was now peeking through the curtain, staring at the young boy sound asleep on the bed. No doubt, Sunset imagined the boy wouldn't take to kindly to finding a bunch of strangers watching him sleep. Thankfully, Applejack seemed to share her sentiments, and she grabbed Rainbow and Pinkie by the collar, pulling them away from the curtain.

"Alright thats enough of that," said Applejack. "Yaw aught to try being a little more sensible. Especially you Pinkie."

"What. I'm very sensible," said Pinkie Pie. "I'm already thinking about what cake I should bring him."

Applejack rubbed her temples trying to find a means to explain herself, in a manner that Pinkie could understand.

"Is that the one who passed out at the cafeteria?" asked Fluttershy.

"Yep. Nurse Redheart told me," answered Sunset.

"Poor thing must have been nervous," Fluttershy said sympathetically. "I wasn't feeling to good when I started my first day of school."

"Puking and passing out are two different things Fluttershy," mocked Rainbow Dash.

"It's still embarrassing," snapped Fluttershy, her face a light red.

"In that case, I should probably get him a party bag as well," said Pinkie sagely. "Something to keep his spirits up, while everyone starts laughing at him."

"I don't think it's that seri- Pinkie Pie stop opening those curtains!" said Rarity. "The poor things already stuck here in the nurse's office. I don't think he'll want to have to wake up to you see you gawking at him."

"Hey," snapped Pinkie. But she didn't bother closing the windows. Instead she looked more closely at the young boy.

"I remember this guy," said Pinkie excitingly.

"Huh?" asked Rainbow Dash.

"Yeah, he works at Sugar Cube Corner. You know, the new cashier."

'What?!" said Sunset Shimmer. She scrambled from her bed to look at him. It was in fact him, sleeping soundly on the bed.

"Pinkie, you know him?" asked Sunset.

"Sure do. Maud and I met him when he started working here. He's really nice, and he has a pretty necklace he wears." Pinkie pointed at the small pendant laced around the boys neck. "See, he's even still wearing it. Sombra must really like that necklace."

Sunset froze upon hearing the boy's name. She could feel a cold shudder trickling down her spine, looking at Sombra's sleeping body with renewed horror. The others did not fail to notice the sudden change in their friends features, each shifting their attention to either Sombra or Sunset.

"S-Sombra," said Sunset shakily.

"Uhm, yeah," said Pinkie hesitantly. "You met him yesterday, during lunch. I thought you knew each other."

Sunset didn't say anything. Her friends watched her backing away from Sombra. They each walked up to her, disturbed by the terror in Sunset's face. They thought of a half dozen reasons why Sunset was suddenly so afraid. Unfortunately, not one of them made sense.

The King is a Part Timer

Sunset sat on a bench in the back of the school, her hands laid atop her lap, watching her friends who were looking at her deep in thought. School had already ended, but not before Sunset ran out of the school in obvious terror. She was at the back of the school grounds, near the old tool shed, when Rainbow Dash nearly tackled her. Sunset, firmly held up by Rainbow Dash, finally took the moment to breathe, leaving her friend to carry her full weight, while her thoughts ran amuck. She eventually regained a little of her composure, and seated herself on the bench, but not without cornering herself. She couldn't hide anything after the scene she had made, and with Sombra in her school, Sunset wanted more than anything to keep her friends out of it. Many things were about to change, and Sunset could only hope their friendship wasn't one of them.

"So you met Twilight," said Applejack. "But not our Twilight."

Sunset nodded.

"And you didn't think to tell us?" asked Rarity.

"I was afraid," Sunset said before being interrupted.

"Afraid of what?" asked Rarity. "How could you think that after everything we've been through, you could keep something so important a secret?"

"I didn't want," Sunset tried to say.

"It doesn't matter what you wanted," shouted Applejack. "What if one of us had met that Twilight? We could've said something without knowing it. You could've been in serious trouble, not including the 'monster' you failed to mention is wandering in our school."

"You shouldn't have been afraid to tell us," said Fluttershy.

"I know, but." Sunset was on the verge of tears. What a perfect time to be a crybaby again, she thought. She clenched her eyes, trying to hold back. She felt something being placed on her head. Her eyes snapped open, and she reached out her hand to feel a fuzzy hairpiece.

"What," muttered Sunset.

"Just a precaution," said a cheerful Pinkie Pie. "Now if that other Sunset Shimmer shows up we'll know which one's our Sunset."

"Pinkie..." mumbled Sunset, still touching the pony ear hairpiece.

"Jeez, you'd think you'd learn by now," said Applejack, smiling towards Sunset Shimmer. "We're your friends Sunset. We'd fight tooth and nail to keep you safe."

"That's right," said Fluttershy.

"Eeyup," said Rarity.

"And don't try to explain it all away, cause none of us will have it."

"You're not mad?" asked Sunset.

"Of course were mad," said Rarity, grimly. "But given the circumstances," she added, "I suppose a bit of clemency is in order. You'll just have to find some way to regain our good graces."

"Like letting us help you," said Fluttershy warmly.

"You guys..." Sunset wanted to say more, but couldn't find the words.

"Well, I'm still mad at you," said Rainbow Dash.

"We're all mad, Rainbow," barked Applejack. "But cut her some slack."

"How can I?" asked Rainbow Dash. "All this time, there was another me in Equestria, and she didn't even think to tell me." She looked at Sunset. "If there are two Twilight's, then there's obviously versions of us back in Equestria, right?"

"Uh, maybe, probably," stammered Sunset Shimmer.

"See," said Rainbow, looking towards Applejack. "You can't just hide something that awesome from your friends. Its almost evil."

"Rainbow Dash," said Rarity. "I think we have more important issues to consider."

"Oh c'mon. Look at Fluttershy, she's just as curious."

Fluttershy snapped out of her reverie upon hearing her name. "Oh, I'm not mad at Sunset. I know she was just trying to protect us." She scooted herself closer to Sunset Shimmer. "But I think its wonderful there's a pony me somewhere. I wonder what I look like as a pony," she said, blushing.

"Am I still in trouble?" asked Sunset Shimmer.

"Doesn't seem like it," Applejack said wearily, pulling her hand away from her face. "But no more secrets kay?"

"Right," said Sunset.

"Good," said Applejack. "Now if Rainbow's done being fickle, I'd like to know why you freaked out around that Sombra fella."

[][][][][]

In spite of all her misgivings, Sunset Shimmer was rather happy with having told the truth. Her friends were now alerted to the other Twilight, and were less likely to slip her anything she might use against Sunset. Every now and then, she and her friends would look around, keeping an eye out for Twilight: enough that they may spot her if she was hiding somewhere, but not so much that Twilight could suspect they were looking for her. However, Sunset was less concerned about Twilight then she was about Sombra.

She watched the boy working at the counter in Sugar Cube Corner. Sunset felt somewhat ashamed. It was possible this Sombra was just an innocent boy, the human double of a pony who lorded ruthlessly over a shrinking empire. Her friends peeked at the counter at different moments, each equally confused by the situation.

"So the most evil, uhh, pony in Equestria," said Applejack hesitantly, "is now in our school... and works part-time at a bakery."

"Its nothing concrete," said Sunset. "But I can't take the chance. If this Sombra is in any way connected to the 'evil spirit' Twilight mentioned, I have to know for sure."

"Seems to me darling," said Rarity, "that the only threat he represents is to a lady's waistline." She said this watching Derpy walking from the counter, carrying a large bag of muffins. How that girl could eat those muffins without risking her figure was a source of constant agitation for a girl who checked her weight every morning. She inwardly salivated when she saw Derpy pull a muffin from her bag. Banana chocolate chip, thought Rarity, so delicious yet so cruel to me.

"Uhh," said Rainbow Dash, looking away from the bizarre staring content between Rarity and the muffin, "Rarity's right. Its pretty weird that some evil king would be working here."

"It could happen," said Pinkie Pie. "We have magical powers, so why can't he?"

"Pinkie's right," said Sunset. "When I came into contact with Sombra, I felt... something. He could be in the possession of powerful dark magic."

"But you were all weirded out by that other Twilight," said Applejack. "Could've been you were just stressed."

"Yeah," said Rainbow in agreement. "I mean the only evil monster I see is Aria, and she can't use magic anymore."

"But if Sombra does have dark magic," said Fluttershy, wiping Rarity's lips with a napkin, "he could end up hurting someone."

"I agree with Fluttershy," said Rarity, brought back from her trance. "Trust but verify, as I always say."

"The real problem is determining if Sombra has any magic or not," said Sunset, digging in her bag. From it she pulled out a small gemstone, which glowed faintly on her palm.

"What is that?" asked Rarity, awestruck.

"Back in Equestria these gems are used for lighting lamppost at night. They glow when they come into contact with magic. The magic in our world isn't the same as back in Equestria, so these gems wouldn't glow if used by a normal person."

"But we're not exactly normal," said Fluttershy.

"That's right. We each possess magic leftover from when I brought Princess Twilight's crown through the portal. When I touch the gemstone some of that magic is being emitted to it, making it glow."

"So if Sombra has any magic," said Rarity, "the gem would glow as well."

"Exactly," said Sunset. "So we need to..."

Looking back at her hand, Sunset realized that she was no longer holding the gemstone. She scrambled in her seat, looking desperately for the tiny gem. But her minor episode was interrupted by a few pokes from Rainbow Dash, who pointed dumbstruck at the familiar pink girl now standing by the counter.

"P-P-Pinkie Pie," Sunset stammered. "What the heck is she doing?!"

"I'd take it she's taking the initiative on this one," said Applejack nervously.

[][][][][]

Sombra had been more than patient with Pinkie Pie when she arrived at the counter, and although he couldn't admit any animosity towards the pink girl, the growing line of customers was testing his nerves. He glanced at Aria, herself busily taking customers orders, who glared angrily at Sombra briefly before turning back to the customers. Pinkie continued staring at him quietly.

"Uhm, Pinkie Pie, right?" asked Sombra.

"Yes Sombra," said Pinkie, finally blinking.

Sombra paused to consider his words. "I don't mean to be rude, but I need to help the rest of the customers. If you haven't decided what to order, could you stand beside the counter so I help the other customers while you decide."

"Your really nice," said Pinkie Pie.

"... thank you."

"No, seriously," stressed Pinkie Pie, "you don't seem like a bad guy at all. Most guy's wouldn't be so nice to someone being so inconsiderate."

"Then maybe you should try being nice and let everyone else in line through," sneered Aria.

"I should shouldn't I," said Pinkie, innocently. "But then I wouldn't be able to talk to Sombra, and he would be to busy to talk to me, and then we can't become good friends."

"I'll be on my break in a little bit," said Sombra. "We could talk then."

"That's sweet, but we should talk now. Like what's your favorite color?"

"Pinkie Pie," seethed Aria.

"Green," interrupted Sombra. "My favorite color is green."

"Now is that like an evil kind of green, or the good kind?"

"What?"

"Just kidding. Unless you like milky green, which is my least favorite color for green. Reminds me of boogers, bleh."

"I guess it would be... unpleasant."

"But your not are you. Your just a struggling guy trying to make his way in life, working hard to help his family, not burdening them with his own wants and needs. My sister Maud would have loved to meet you. Oh, and Applejack to, she loves guys like you, always working hard. In fact, she used to have a teenie-tiny crush on Braeburn before she learned they were cousins. Boy was that embarrassing. Oh no," she said glumly, "I just told you something embarrassing about one of my best's friends."

"That's alright," Sombra said desperately. "I swear I won't tell anyone. But if you could please-"

"That's so nice of you," gleamed Pinkie Pie. "In that case, it will be our secret as best's friends. Do you have any secrets?"

"Wha?"

"Well I just blurted something really private about someone. It wouldn't be fair if you didn't tell me something that I could keep a secret. I mean that's what friends do."

"But I don't really have any secrets."

"That's okay, just tell me when you find one."

"Could you please move it," shouted someone from the line. "Some of us want to actually eat some food."

"Then maybe," said Pinkie Pie, looking deathly back at the line, "you should use the other line."

The customers immediately buckled at the sight of Pinkie Pie's smiling face, and deflated hair, sidestepping to the next line.

"So," she said, turning back towards Sombra, her hair frizzed back to 'normal', "I heard you passed out at the cafeteria. Are you alright?"

"Uhh," stammered Sombra, frightened by the brisk change in Pinkie's attitude, "yes. A little dizziness but I'm alright."

"That's really great to hear. It must have been really bad to have to go through that on your first day. Good thing you had friends to look after you. I mean they could've left you lying there, cold and alone on the floor; also can you hold this for me?"

The rattled Sombra felt his hand being pulled by Pinkie Pie, who placed a small gemstone on his palm. Sombra simply watched, too far gone to process the unusual situation happening before him. The small gem glowed dimly on his hand, still held firmly by Pinkie Pie.

"What the heck is that?" snarled Aria, busily tending to customers while keeping her eye on Pinkie Pie.

"Duh, its a glowing rock. My sister Maud loves rocks, so I thought this would be really cool to give to her for her birthday. But I didn't know if it glowed or not, so I wanted to check."

Pinkie let go of Sombra's hand, putting the gem in her pocket, before waving away to Sombra.

"It was really nice talking to you. We have to do it again sometime."

Sombra mumbled incoherently while a number of brave customers moved to his line.

Pinkie Pie seated herself beside her friends, each dumbfounded by the scene they had witnessed. Pinkie fiddled with the gem in her hand briefly before speaking again.

"That Sombra's a really, really, nice guy. To bad he might be evil."