Once Monsters

Chapters

Always Monsters?
Shadows of the Past
Over the Edge
Catch Me If I Fall
Who We Choose to Be

Always Monsters?

Cheers of anticipation roll across a darkened stadium like ocean waves on the shore of a wind-swept beach.

Sunset Shimmer, guitar in hand, shares a look with her five band-mates waiting in the shadows on-stage. The air hums with their names being chanted in chorus throughout the crowd.

“Dash! Dash! Dash! Dash!”

“We love you Rarity!”

But one name rings in Sunset’s ears above the others, surpassing even Rainbow’s in recent months.

“Go SUNNNAAAAYYYYY!”

“ShimMER! ShimMER! ShimMER!”

A single note from Applejack’s bass reverberates through the darkness, and the wave of cheering crests before falling to a baited hush.

Sunset takes a deep breath. The calm before the storm...

And then the sound of Pinkie’s drumsticks clapping in time—

1…

2…

3…

The stadium lights burst to life with the crash of drums and a pounding bass, and a thunderstorm breaks out over the sea of cheering fans. Chords from dueling guitars weave into the mix, and the waters begin to churn. Beat after beat, measure after measure, the Rainbooms build their sound into another rolling wave of anticipation.

Now... to give them what they've all been waiting for.

When the instrumental rush nears its peak, Sunset steps forward, closes her eyes and…

Go.

Her rich, dark voice layers into the microphone. The stadium erupts as the wave crashes against the shore. Bracing herself, she shudders as the crowd’s excitement washes over her.

Looks like we might even upstage the band we’re opening for.

Not missing a single beat, she glances around at the others and then forward again with a smug, satisfied grin.

We’re just that good.

One verse, then a chorus, and then each again in turn. Intensity and passion rise like the tide.

Sunset leans back from the microphone and shreds into her strings as the song reaches its instrumental bridge. She looks out across the stadium—across the ocean of adrenaline and palpable adoration.

A sea of faces. A throng of zealous fans. An army.

“Yes, an army…” The warm whisper of Adagio’s voice caresses Sunset’s right ear, sending a spark of ecstasy down through her toes. A soft moan escapes her lips as firm, delicate hands stroke her shoulders from behind. Turning toward the sadistic chuckle which follows, she's met by a pair of glowing, captivating red eyes.

Those alluring, ancient, powerful eyes.

Sunset’s own eyes narrow, and a grin to accompany Adagio’s laugh slowly spreads across her face. “Shall we?”

Adagio traces a finger along Sunset’s chin.

“Hmmmm. Let's.”

Sunset’s fervor intensifies. She looks down to see her red, clawed hand now striking the strings.

Her grin broadens further.

The song’s melody and tempo change. Its notes become more jagged, more forceful. One by one, the others lower their instruments and stare in disbelief as the hellish tune rages on without them. Adagio releases Sunset’s shoulders and strides up beside her, her sleek black dress whipping in the wind. She spreads her arms, and her wings unfurl in a flash of light.

And as Sunset’s intensity crests toward its climax, Adagio’s eyes flare, and she inhales deeply. For a brief moment, time seems to slow around them, all motion freezing in silence—

And then with a pounding crash, the shockwave of Adagio’s voice ripples through the stadium, blowing the Rainbooms and their equipment to the back of the stage as Sunset’s guitar grinds on.

The crowd’s passion and excitement turn quickly to panic and fear. The clamor descends into screaming, and Adagio laughs maniacally.

“Their minds will be ours.”

Their screams fall under a black-green wave, and a demonic cackle replies, “Ours to command.”

And then a single voice—Sunset’s own human voice—cries out in horror inside her head as the two dark entities whisper, together as one…

“You’re mine.”

***

Sunset woke with a start and nearly rolled off the couch as both legs caught up in her blanket.

“What was… Owwww.” Wincing in pain, she brought a hand to her temple.

Ohh, this headache… Where am I?

Her damp shirt was half-twisted and clung uncomfortably to her chest. With some effort she freed herself from the tangled blanket and swung her legs off the couch. Still holding her throbbing head, she looked around to get her bearings.

Off to her right, Aria was passed out in a recliner, illuminated by the television screen with a game still looping on its ‘Continue?’ option. Turning toward the hallway, she found a very flattering framed picture of Adagio on one of the walls.

Right. Up late drinking and talking with those three… and then a 2 A.M. crash on the couch here.

Sunset stood and staggered down the hallway to the bathroom. Along the way, she noticed Adagio’s door slightly ajar and—after a moment of consideration—peeked in to find her sleeping peacefully. She sighed in relief and placed a hand to her chest.

Well of course she is. That was all just in my stupid head, right? Listening further, she chuckled softly. She’s quite the heavy breather when she sleeps.

Moving on, Sunset flipped on the bathroom light and leaned her hands on either side of the sink. The mirror revealed a tangled mess of hair with one large clump matted up in the back. She looked down at the clock on the counter. It read 5:22 A.M.

“Figures.” She looked again at the mirror. “What in Tartarus was that?”

She exhaled while leaning forward, but in doing so, her left hand slipped, and her forehead smacked against the mirror with an “Ooof.”

Ugh... Well that was stupid.

Regaining her balance and rubbing her forehead, Sunset grimaced at the face-grime smudge blotting her reflection. As she groggily reached for a tissue, her hand knocked over a half-dozen cans of hair product and other cosmetics. One rolled onto the floor with a silence-shattering clash.

She sighed heavily and closed her eyes.

Why me?

Placing both hands on the counter again, she willed her nerves to relax. Her thoughts drifted back to a memory of sitting unusually close and ‘comfortable’ with Adagio on the couch earlier, amid the haze of wine and conversation.

Could that be part of what caused that dream?

Sunset took another deep breath.

A pleasant humming melody entered the room behind her, and she felt two hands rest gently on her shoulders. A familiar voice laughed softly and whispered into her right ear, “Well you’re certainly up early.”

She opened her eyes to the reflection of Adagio smiling behind her in a sleek black dress.

“Dyah!”

Sunset leapt backwards from the counter and then spun around, knocking over more bottles and nearly bumping Adagio out the door. She brought both hands up to her heart as her breath came in short gasps.

But when her eyes refocused, she let out a long exhale and relaxed. Adagio’s hair was down and frumped from sleeping, and what Sunset mistook for a dress turned out to be a thigh-length black nightshirt.

Adagio lifted her hands and stepped cautiously toward Sunset with an expression of concern, but also a tinge of hurt. She surveyed the devastation on the countertop.

“Sunset, what… happened in here? Are you alright?”

Sunset turned back toward the mirror and slowly began standing up the items she’d knocked over. “Sorry. Guess I’m just a bit jumpy. I… had a bad dream.”

Adagio stepped up beside her and lent a hand with replacing the bottles. “Do you want to talk about it?”

Sunset held one of the bottles to her chest and sighed at the mirror. “No. Just some old troubles from Equestria. Not anything I wanna talk about right now.”

Wincing in pain, she lifted a hand to her forehead. “How can you drink so much wine and not have this ache in your head every morning?”

“Eh... Tolerance, I suppose.” Adagio shrugged. “Here.” She opened a drawer for some aspirin and handed it to Sunset after filling an empty glass with water. “This should help. You sure you’re going to be alright?”

Sunset nodded after downing the pills with a long drink. “Yeah. Thanks.”

Adagio rubbed a hand on Sunset's arm. “I’m going back to bed. I had to check what was going on in here when I heard the crash.” She added a gentle squeeze on Sunset's shoulders and a few circles of her thumbs. “Try to relax and get some sleep.”

Sunset nodded again and watched in the mirror as Adagio walked out the door. She closed her eyes and ran both hands through her hair, begging her mind to relax.

“Please let me sleep?”

She took another long breath, flicked off the light and made her way back to the couch.

***

The smell of brewed coffee brought Sunset back to awareness. Mmm. That sounds good after last night. But the happy thought turned sour when she opened her eyes.

Aria and Sonata were finishing their breakfast at the table, having already showered and dressed. Adagio was still in her nightshirt eating a piece of toast in the kitchen with her hair wrapped up in a towel. Noting the sun casting shortened shadows through the front window, Sunset sat up and wiped the drool from the side of her chin. Her face reddened under the trio of smiles.

“What time is it? Why didn’t you guys wake me up sooner?”

Adagio swallowed what she was chewing and lowered her eyes. “Sorry. Figured you needed sleep after last night.”

Aria spread a half-sided grin. “And you did look pretty cute snoring over there.”

Sonata covered her mouth with a giggle.

“Uff.” Sunset stood up and palmed her eyes. “That coffee smells good. But I need a shower.” Looking out the window again, she added, “There’s so much I wanted to get done today. I really wish you’d gotten me up sooner.”

Adagio took another sip of her coffee. “I know. But you did at least have fun last night?”

“Yeah. Though not sure I remember all of it, honestly... But I guess the extra sleep helped? My head doesn’t hurt as bad right now.”

Adagio leaned on the counter and smiled warmly. “Hmm, good then.”

“There’s still more eggs and toast if you want.” Sonata walked over and gave her a quick hug. “Sorry for laughing.”

“It’s alright, Sonata. I’ll feel better after a shower.”

As Sunset started toward the hallway, Adagio added, “And we’ll find you a change of clothes too, because—” she made a motion of sniffing her armpit.

Sunset looked down at the sweat stains on her t-shirt and slumped her shoulders with a sigh.

Adagio chuckled as she stepped past her down the hallway. “Don’t worry. Between a pair of my pants and one of Sonata’s shirts, we’ll having you lookin’ fine.” She winked before disappearing into her room.

***

When Sunset stepped out of the shower, she found the change of clothes waiting on the bathroom counter. After drying off, she slipped into a very form-fitting pair of black knit pants and a long, loose sweater that was a close match to her eye color. She laughed to herself while turning in the mirror. Typical Adagio. Not bad, though.

Sunset hung her towel, switched off the light and started down the hallway. She heard Adagio’s voice coming from her bedroom door, which was again slightly ajar. Curiosity overwhelmed modesty and she peeked in.

Adagio was posing in front of the mirror with her hair still down. She was barefoot and wearing her old dress from the band finale half a year ago. Sunset’s smile fell, and she felt her heart take a few steps back.

She watched Adagio turn at various angles, inspecting her pose and the outfit with an occasional prideful grin. Though as she went to latch the belt around the dress, her waistline put up more than a little resistance. With a frustrated look and then a pout at her reflection, she took in a high-chested deep breath followed by a 'click'.

"Hmph." Adagio turned sideways with another proud grin. "Still got it,” she said, as she smacked the side of her ass.

On any other day, Sunset might have giggled a bit at this behavior, but the unsettling events of last night left a troubled feeling instead. Why is she wearing that dress again… and enjoying it so much?

Her heart sank further. With a frown, she tip-toed back from the door.

Things had been going so well lately. So why did everything about this morning suddenly feel so wrong?

She hurried into the main room. Looking around quickly, she grabbed her jacket and backpack from beside the couch. Sonata raised a hand and opened her mouth to say something, but Sunset cut her off.

“Sorry, I’ll bring the clothes back later. I just… I gotta go.”

She rushed out the door and sped off on her motorcycle.

***

Sunset rode through the foothills for nearly an hour trying to get her mind off last night’s events, but to little avail. She then made her way to the library, with the hope that focusing on her work might help.

But when those same events began to show up as random words in the code she was trying to write, she ended up with her face down on the table in surrender and her headache threatening to return.

There was a soft thud on the table next to her ear, followed by proof that even the clearing of one’s throat could be made to sound elegant and dignified.

Sunset sat up and rubbed her eyes. "Oh. Hey Rarity."

Rarity smiled as she sat down across from Sunset and placed her shopping bags on the table. Sunset picked up the coffee that had been placed next to her head. Following a long sip, she let out a sigh of relief.

“Oh goodness, thank you. I didn’t sleep well last night.” She managed a weak smile. “Which... I suppose was obvious.”

Rarity’s expression fell to a soft frown. "How have you been, dear? We’ve hardly seen you lately.” She unshouldered her purse and set it next to the bags. “And what happened last night?"

“Oh, I... spent the night at Adagio’s place.” As Rarity raised an eyebrow, Sunset quickly added, “But it wasn’t anything… The four of us were just up late talking. And then I had a rough night on their couch.”

“Ah.” Rarity looked down to the side for a moment before turning back to Sunset. “You have been spending a lot of time with them lately, haven’t you?”

Sunset ran a finger along the side of her cup. “I guess I have, yeah.” She gestured toward her laptop. “Though I’ve also been busy with this stuff.”

“We miss you, Sunset," Rarity said. "You’ve been a no-show for three of the four band practices this month. We've all been starting to worry. So when I saw you face-down on the desk here…”

“Yeah… Sorry. I just have a lot on my mind right now.” She looked up at Rarity. “Those three have come so far. And... I guess I feel sorta responsible to keep helping them along.”

“That is very noble of you.”

Sunset sighed. “Having been where they are, I feel like I ‘get’ them, you know? And I’ve really come to enjoy her—their—company.” Sunset took another long sip from her cup. Wow. Where did that come from?

“Hmm, yes. Whilst helping me at the boutique, Adagio has shared that she enjoys spending time with you as well.” Rarity looked at Sunset with a leading smile. “Always a bit of a grin on her face whenever the subject comes up.”

Sunset felt her cheeks grow warm—a gesture which didn’t go unnoticed, judging by Rarity’s smile edging toward a grin.

“Just take care to keep yourself grounded, dear. You can only give so much, without recharging, before you risk losing yourself in the process.” Rarity’s eyes fell to her cup, and she rubbed a thumb across its logo. “That is a lesson I have come to learn the hard way.”

The two sat in silence for a few moments. Sunset frowned and took another long sip. And then a slow breath.

“Rarity? Have you ever… worried about me slipping back to what I used to be? Or worse, becoming that horrible monster again?”

Rarity "hmm"ed. "Why would you ask? But no, I haven’t. Not since you’ve made such a genuine effort to turn yourself around. It had crossed all of our minds very early on, yes. But... that was a long time ago.”

She placed a hand over one of Sunset’s. “And don’t forget. You have us now, should you ever find yourself struggling with it.”

“Hmm. Thanks. And yeah, it’s nothing.” Sunset smiled at her. “I’m happy to hear you say that.”

Rarity nodded. “I should let you get back to your work. But do try to get some sleep.” She held up her phone between a thumb and finger. “And should you need anything else, you know where to reach me.”

“I will. Thanks again, Rarity.”

Rarity collected her bags from the table and gave a small wave. As she turned to leave, Sunset found herself giggling at the number of eyes which peeked over their books to follow her swaying stride out the door.

But she then looked back down at her coffee, and her smile faded to a frown.

She does have a point. I’ve been all but ignoring the five of them lately. Am I really digging myself into a hole here?

She thought back to Adagio in her dress at the bedroom mirror earlier.

Do I really understand her as well as I thought I did? And that was just a dream... Right?

Sunset crossed her arms on the table and put her head down again in exasperation.

Guuh.

Shadows of the Past

Sunset beamed a smile as she walked into Applejack’s barn, guitar case over her shoulder. “Hey, guys!”

“Hey… Sunset.” Applejack looked around at the others before facing her again with a half smile.

Sunset lowered her eyes and fiddled with her jacket cuffs. “Sorry I... haven’t been around much lately. I guess I should have called first. But I just really wanted to see you guys.”

“Hey, it’s cool. I’ve had it covered.” Rainbow Dash inspected the fingers on one of her hands. “It’s not much different from when I first put the band together, yanno. ‘Cause I got the skills to carry the weight.” She ripped into an over-dramatic series of chords.

Sunset shook her head with a small laugh. She moved to the table and started unpacking her guitar. “Well, I’m back now. What are you guys working on?” Behind her, an uncomfortable silence crept into the room as she was opening her case. She turned around and glanced across each of their faces.

Applejack placed a hand behind her neck and looked down to the side.

“Well, ya see… We’ve sorta been workin’ on a set for a gig this week. And, well, we got it pretty tight right now with just the five of us.” She met eyes again with Sunset. “Since you haven’t been around, an’ all. And it’s a bit late to go changin’ stuff, seeing as how the show is Wednesday night.”

“But it’s all good,” Dash said. “I mean, you probably got other plans anyway, right?” Then with a smirk and a wink, she added, “I hear you got ‘dazzled’ pretty good the other night.”

Sunset bristled. “What?” She glowered at Rarity, who suddenly looked mortified.

“Rainbow Dash! I implied nothing of the sort.”

The grin spread across Rainbow’s face. “Heh. Or maybe Wednesday night is the next ‘Mind-controllers Anonymous’ meeting over at their place. WooOOooO.” She wiggled fingers on both sides of her head. Nudging Pinkie with laugh, she looked around the room. “Am-I-right?”

Sunset leaned breathless against the table as her heart sank. She looked at Rainbow in bewilderment. Why…?

After all this time. And everything we’ve been through.

I’ve tried SO hard to change. You know this.

She felt her hands clench into fists, and her eyes began to quiver. Her focus narrowed onto Dash’s laughing face. But if that's who I still am to you...

Applejack sighed. “C’mon now, Rainbow. That’s a bit outta line. Let’s just g—”

Voices continued speaking, but the sound faded into a din as Sunset’s heartbeat pounded in her head. Hazing around the edges, her vision drilled into that cocky, grinning blue face.

“Nah, she can take a joke, heh.” Rainbow wiped a tear from her eye. “Ahh, I’ve been waitin’ a while to use that one.”

“GraaaaaaAAHHHhh!”

Sunset’s vision blurred with a sudden motion, followed by a loud thud on the ground.

“What the hay?!”

She flashed back to her surroundings at the tone of Applejack’s voice. Her breath rushed through gritted teeth as she found herself looming aggressively over Dash—who was lying on the floor holding the side of her face. A stark fear darkened Rainbow’s eyes.

Sunset’s breathing slowed, and a dull pain began to throb in the knuckles on her right hand. She looked around at the others as they stared back at her in open-mouthed shock.

Pinkie narrowed her eyes. “Not cool, Sunny. Not cool.”

Sunset let out a sharp breath and looked down at her open hands. She whispered, "N-no... I." The pace of her breathing quickened again, and she shook her head in disbelief.

Applejack helped Rainbow to her feet. She turned to Sunset and straightened her hat. “I think ya best be leavin’.”

“I…” Sunset’s eyes began to water as she looked around at the others. Pinkie, Rainbow and Applejack regarded her with disappointment, while Fluttershy cowered against a hay bale behind them. Rarity had her eyes cast downward, breathing quietly and clutching her necklace.

Sunset brought a hand to her mouth as a wave of nausea caught in her throat. She grabbed her helmet and ran out of the barn.

Rarity yelled after her, “Sunset, please. Wait!”

Sunset straddled her motorcycle and took off. Looking down in the mirror, she saw Rarity run out of the barn and then huff to a stop, putting both hands on her knees. Picking up speed, she blinked away tears as best she could, unable to dry her eyes through her helmet.

***

When she walked into her bedroom, Sunset fell face-first onto her pillow and finally allowed herself to break down.

That didn’t go anything at all like I’d hoped. She clutched the pillow around her face.

I can’t believe how much I miss them. How could I lose control like that?

A buzzing sound came from her nightstand. She lifted an eye off her pillow and reached for her phone. With a sniffle and a sigh, she whispered, “Rarity… I know you’re sorry. But I just can’t right now.” She sent the call to voicemail and dropped the phone on her bed.

Sunset choked out another sob into her pillow. What is happening to me?

Her thoughts were drawn again to the dream two nights ago on Adagio’s couch. That seemed to be the moment when everything had begun spiraling downward.

She ground her face into the pillow as the memory of her own demonic cackle echoed in her mind, clear as day. That was so long ago. Another Fall Formal has come and gone, even. Why is this just now beginning to haunt me, after all this time?

A chill danced across her skin as she recalled the temptation of Adagio’s words within the dream and the ecstasy which accompanied her touch. But in contrast, Adagio had shown Sunset nothing but warmth and compassion during all of their recent time together. We seem to understand each other so well.

Sunset let out a long breath. Could this really have something to do with her? Or with how I’m starting to feel about her? She had come to enjoy their time together more than she could ever have expected. And lately—while alone working, exercising, or studying—Sunset found her thoughts drifting more and more to Adagio, and to the warmth and allure that blossomed whenever the two of them were together.

But now… Was there something more to Adagio's motives? Something Sunset had missed, or perhaps chosen to ignore?

“I don’t know any more… I just don’t know.” She surrendered to the doubt that was closing in around her.

I just don’t know.

Seconds passed, and then minutes. Sunset’s breathing slowed as she found a fleeting release within her surrender. Her eyes had since dried, and her body took on a calm feeling of weightlessness.

A sound drifted to her ears—the sound of two hands slowly clapping.

“Well done.”

Sunset lifted her head and looked around the vacant room. Her sight came to rest on the empty chair in the corner. What? She rose to her feet, took a few steps away from the bed, and again surveyed her surroundings.

As her gaze passed the mirror on her vanity, she yelped and jumped backward. There, in the reflection, her dark aspect from a year ago was lounging in the corner chair, smiling and slowly clapping her hands in smug approval.

No...

Sunset turned again to the empty chair, and then back to the mirror.

She walked closer to the vanity.

The aspect stood and reflected her steps until the two met on either side of the glass.

“Yes…” A toothy grin spread across the reflection’s face, and Sunset’s heart sank.

“Oh, my poor dear.” The red face tutted at her. “Twice now in as many days, you’ve jumped on that motorcycle and sped away from your problems.” A delighted, sadistic laugh followed. “Not that I’m complaining. We finally have our chance to talk.”

“Why are you doing this? Why now?”

“Well, you’ve had your little mind in a bunch over so many other things lately that I could hardly get a word in edgewise. ‘Boo hoo, now that I want friends, I don’t have any.’ And then, ‘Now, I think I have friends, but they don’t trust me.’

“And then those Dazzlings came along.” She bit the claw on her thumb. “Mmmm, that Adagio by the way… She and I could make some delightful music together, wouldn’t you agree?” The red face chuckled for a moment before falling to a glare. “Or we could have… You had to go and pick up that microphone.” But then with a wistful sigh, she inspected her claws on one hand. “Ahh, well. There might still be some hope for us yet, hmmm?”

“If you think for one second that—”

“Uh-uh-uh.” Her eyes narrowed. “I wasn’t finished yet.” Straightening her posture, she brushed something off her shoulder. “Now, as I was saying. With that battle of the bands behind us, it was on to your ‘mommy’-approval issues with Celestia. Bleh. You really are messed up, aren’t you? But now, with all of those oh-so-pressing worries out of the way, it seems we finally get to have our little chat.”

“I know I’m dreaming right now. You’re not some separate entity. You’re a part of my past that I’ve put behind me. I’m working through these issues.” Sunset clenched her fists and assumed a confident stance. “I finally have a circle of friends who care about me. And I’ve even passed on some of what I’ve learned to Adagio and the others.”

“Oh, really?” The red face let out long, hard laugh and then fell serious. “Don’t delude yourself. You’ll never truly be loved. Not after everything we’ve done.” In a mocking, sugary tone, she added, “Have you already forgotten what happened earlier at Sour Apple Acres?”

Sunset's eyes fell. She crossed her arms with a frown.

The aspect gave a smug chuckle. “That’s right. That’s the problem with love, you see. It still depends on others to make that choice. Now, fear, on the other hand? There is a true power that you—and only you—control.”

Sunset winced with guilt as the sudden memory of the Fall Formal struck her.

With a sidelong grin, the demon added, “That cocky blue bitch sure shut up quick, didn’t she?”

Sunset gritted her teeth. Again her heart pounded, and her vision began to haze. “Get out of my HEAD!”

She swung a fist at the mocking reflection, but the expected shattering of glass never came. Sunset’s arm rippled through the mirror, and the force of her momentum carried the rest of her through behind it.

Into darkness. Weightlessness. The sensation of falling.

Adagio’s self-assured chuckle echoed throughout the black depth around her.

Sunset blinked. When her eyes opened, they were face-to-face with Adagio’s. She felt a hand rest on her right shoulder as a thumb traced down the center of her forehead.

A green wave flared out from the point of contact. Sunset looked down at her red skin and clawed hands—and then at the ground suddenly approaching. She flapped her wings to stabilize. Her feet, and Adagio’s, came to rest on the grass in unison.

“My, what a single touch can do.” With a spreading grin, Adagio brushed Sunset’s cheek and then pathed a circle around her, maintaining contact with a finger or two as she walked. “You thought perhaps this power of yours was bound to Sparkle’s element? I assure you, my dear—Dark Magic has depths which have scarcely been explored.”

Sunset found the two of them standing in a tumbled stone courtyard of a forested park. She looked down at her clawed hand and clenched it to a fist. As it took on a black-green glow, she looked up to the courtyard’s center statue and lifted it effortlessly, twisting it in the air with little more than a few subtle gestures.

Adagio placed another finger on Sunset’s chest just below her collarbone. Again, a green flare rippled out from the contact, and Sunset returned to her human form. The glow around her hand persisted, however, and the statue remained suspended.

Sunset tightened her fist, and the statue collapsed to dust. The sensation of power flowing through her human body awoke long-suppressed desires. A faint smile of satisfaction hinted at the edge of her lips.

Adagio ran her fingers down Sunset’s arm before taking a few steps away. “A shame how quickly your ‘friends’ gave up on you. And after only a few short weeks apart.”

With a motion of her wrist, she produced a string of dark red grapes and pulled one off between her teeth. Grinning seductively, she rolled it around her tongue before biting it into her mouth. She tossed the others over her shoulder and sauntered toward Sunset with narrowed eyes. When the two were face to face, Adagio lifted a hand and softly stroked her red-gold hair.

“Now, contrast that with what I have to offer.”

With her other hand, Adagio flipped a clasp behind her back. Her dress fell to the ground, leaving nothing to Sunset’s imagination. She gripped Sunset’s shoulders and began layering soft kisses along the side of her neck. Sunset bit her lip with a light moan as her legs went weak beneath her.

Adagio pressed against her, forcing her backward several steps against a stone wall. With a deft, practiced motion, her hands released Sunset’s jacket to the ground. Adagio let out a soft growl. “Mmmmm. I know you’ve been wanting this.” She brushed Sunset’s lips with her own, holding her gaze with narrowed eyes. “Good, yes?”

Sunset closed her eyes. She let out her captive breath and took in another as Adagio’s lips continued to caress her neck. A warmth spread throughout her and she exhaled into a another moan. “Yes…”

Sunset pulled firmly at Adagio’s waist, and their lips met. For several moments, nothing existed beyond that touch. Her world became the scent of lavender and a cascade of auburn hair.

When they parted again, Sunset turned her head to the right, only to discover the other five Rainbooms huddled near a large stone pillar across the courtyard. A glowing chain around each of their ankles led off into the darkened forest.

“Oh, did I forget to mention?” Adagio chuckled. “A little gift for you.” She brushed her nose against Sunset’s ear and whispered, “Let them watch.”

Sunset’s thoughts called back to Applejack’s barn. To their judgmental stares. To Rainbow’s heartless, mocking comments. Turning back again, her eyes took in Adagio in all of her stark, flawless beauty. Sunset considered everything that her ancient power had granted.

She closed her eyes and gave herself over to euphoria. This is what she had always wanted. And here, Adagio had handed it—and herself—to Sunset on a silk-draped altar. She had given love and friendship a chance. Both had rejected her. The bearers themselves were now bound in chains.

This world belonged to the two of them. Sunset opened her eyes with a hungry grin. Equestria would be next.

She looked up at Adagio with a vindicated fire. “Let’s have a bit of fun with them first, hmm?”

Adagio let out a sadistic laugh and then growled in satisfaction.

In a magical flash, Sunset whisked herself across the courtyard to face the others. Adagio’s shadow stretched over them as she grew to an enormous height and crossed her arms. Towering over them, her form became a darkened silhouette. A sliver of light glinted off her spreading half-sided grin.

Sunset laughed and lifted Rainbow’s chin. “Not so brash now, are we?”

Rainbow looked up at her with sullen, empty eyes and then lowered her bruised face again without a word.

Sunset’s confidence staggered for a brief moment. Where was the cocky indignation, the proud rebuke?

The air pulsed with a grey heaviness.

She looked around at the others. Any trace of hope shared among them had long since been extinguished. Pinkie’s hair was deflated. Dark rings showed under her eyes. Fluttershy knelt on the ground, head in her hands.

Rarity lifted her grime-covered face. “Why, Sunset? What has happened to you? I thought that…” She brought a hand to her mouth with a sob and pressed her eyes closed.

Applejack placed a hand on Rarity’s shoulder. Her ever-resilient expression appeared on the verge of cracking. “You got what ya wanted. So why keep us here? Why are ya doin’ this?”

Sunset took a half-step backward. Her self-assured tone from a moment ago fell speechless. Out of the shadows, Aria walked up behind Rainbow and placed both hands on her shoulders. Sunset felt her knees go weak at the sight of yet another chain leading off into the forest. “A-Aria?”

The air around her pulsed a second time. A heavy darkness began to press in.

Aria glared at Sunset, tearing up in hopeless rage. “So?! What do you care? Once you two got what you wanted, she threw us aside like trash!”

Sonata walked up behind Pinkie and wrapped her in a hug. She put her head down on her shoulder and whispered softly, “It’s okay. We know what you’re going through.” At this, Pinkie finally let go and fell into tears.

Aria picked up a rock and hurled it up at Adagio. It landed on the ground before even reaching her feet. “How’s the view from up there, you bitch?!” Huffing, she turned back to Sunset, hate brimming in her eyes. In a flat, icy tone, she asked, “So tell me. How does it feel to rule over a dead, empty world?”

The seductive veneer of the dream cracked, and Sunset found herself breathless. A deep pit began to form in her stomach. She looked around at the seven of them, huddled and broken, and a wave of guilt flooded into her.

“This… no. This isn’t what I wanted.”

She turned around and stared up at Adagio’s powerful form towering above them.

“This isn’t what I wanted!”

Adagio’s voice boomed from above. “You would wallow with these insects rather than live like a god?”

Sunset gripped her arms and looked around again at the others. She lowered her eyes to the ground. “I just can’t. This is wrong, Adagio.”

Adagio’s grin turned to a sneer. “So. This is your choice then…”

Sunset helped Fluttershy to her feet and nodded confidently.

“How unfortunate.” Adagio placed the heel of her boot in front of Sunset. The grin returned to her face. “We’ll see about that.”

She lowered her foot, enveloping them all in darkness.

With a gasp, Sunset found herself lying atop her blankets and sat up slowly. Her room had fallen dark, and now felt even more empty than she remembered. She buried her face in her hands and broke down crying as a heavy loss closed in around her.

Please don’t make me do this. Don’t make me choose between you.

Over the Edge

The morning sun filtering through the drapes stirred Sunset back to life. She was thankful for a precious few hours of undisturbed sleep. Having showered and prepared her morning coffee and buttered toast, she sat on the bed to finish getting ready for the first Monday of winter break.

After pulling up her boots, Sunset noticed her phone still lying on the bed from the night before. She picked it up and placed it back on the nightstand beside her magic journal. Her eyebrows rose as a realization struck her.

Twilight.... maybe there is something I can do here.

Opening the book, she clicked the pen from her backpack and set to writing.

I have a question, Twilight, if you have some time. I wonder if you could help me with a bit of magic theory. Had you and Celestia ever talked about Dream Prophecy when you were studying with her? Or better yet, has it ever come up in your talks with Luna since her return?

Sunset left to brush her teeth. She found the book vibrating on her bed when she returned, and opened it to Twilight’s response.

That is something we covered during my teaching, albeit briefly—if by ‘Dream Prophecy’ you mean certain events or feelings from a dream lining up with seeming ‘coincidences’ during the days that follow.

And unfortunately, no. I haven’t actually sought many opportunities to talk with Luna. Maybe something in my subconscious still finds her a bit intimidating, even though I know that’s just silly. I really should make some time to talk with her, though. So thank you for putting that thought in my head.

And there I go rambling again, sorry. Why do you ask?

Sunset hastily penned her reply.

That’s it, yes. And well… I’m wondering if it could actually happen on this side of the portal. I mean, I am from Equestria. And the other girls and I still have some of that residual magic inside us. I'd expect my connection to it to be stronger than theirs, even.

And since I’m sure you’re going to ask—yes, something like that has been happening lately. It’s starting to scare me, Twilight, because it involves visions of that… monster I turned into last year when I put on your crown. To think something like that could ever happen again? It just gives me chills.

Twilight’s words appeared quickly, in turn.

Hmm. I’ll admit I haven’t given as much thought as I should have, to what degree different magics can cross over. We know that—on some level—the magic of Harmony still functions there. And then the sirens also retained some degree of their power after crossing over.

Is there anything more you can tell me about the dream itself or what other signs you’ve been seeing?

Sunset paused for half a minute. Just how much was she willing to worry Twilight with the nature of these concerns? Or worse, to expose her own vulnerability? Twice she hovered the pen over the page and lifted it again, before finally touching it down on the third try.

I’m not comfortable enough yet to talk about it. Sorry, Twi. I was just hoping you might have some insight on the nature of the magic itself. But it sounds like we’re both at a dead end here, huh?

After a few moments, Twilight’s ever-precise letters began to appear again.

Yeah. Sorry I can’t be more help. But still, I’d say it’s too great a possibility to ignore. Especially if it’s troubling you as much as it seems to be. I’ll bring it up with Luna soon. In the meantime though, you should probably take care, Sunset. This seems like one of those cases where ‘better safe than sorry’ is good advice.

And I’ll be here, if or when you feel like going into more detail.

Sunset let out a defeated sigh.

I’ll let you know. Thanks again, Twilight.

She gently closed the cover on the book and returned it to her nightstand. Closing her eyes, she placed a hand on top of it.

That’s what I was afraid of. And it is true that those three had retained a frightening amount of their power on this side of the portal.

She let out another long breath. Is it really too much to ask for more than a few weeks of happiness before each new crisis?

Sunset reflected for a few moments on yesterday's band practice and then opened her eyes. She smiled softly, picked up her phone and dialed Rainbow Dash. “I need to at least take care of this. Maybe there’s still some hope.”

She paced around the room as the phone rang worryingly close to voicemail before finally answering.

“Hello?”

“Oh, hey… Fluttershy. I thought I dialed Rainbow’s number.”

“Oh, uhm, yes. You did. I just have her phone right now.”

“Ahh…” I wonder if they’re all there… Doesn’t matter. Just push through it, Sunset.

“Well do you know if she’s alright? I still feel terrible about what I did yesterday.”

“I... think it hurt her pride more than anything. And it kind of scared us all a little. What about you? Is everything okay?”

Sunset blew out another long breath. “I don’t know, Fluttershy. I’m actually… I just can’t believe I did that. I still feel sick about it. Do you think she’ll be better in time for your show?”

“I think we’ll manage... And speaking of that, there’s someone here who wants to talk to you.” Her voice grew uncharacteristically stern as she finished, followed by a shuffling noise.

“H-hey, Sunset.”

“Rainbow… I don’t know if you heard me tell Fluttershy... but I really am sorry about yesterday.”

“Nah. Look. That was a pretty dick move I pulled back there. So, I guess I kiiiiinda deserved it.” There was a firm Flutter-growl in the background. “Ok, ok. I totally deserved it. I’m sorry, alright? None of us really feel that way about you.”

Rainbow let out an exasperated breath. “I thought more about it yesterday. I had to admit that I’ve been jealous of all the attention you get whenever you play with us. But yeah… wasn’t cool for me to let it out like that.”

Fluttershy’s voice drifted in from beside the phone. “We all talked about it, and no one is mad at you any more, Sunset. Please don’t be upset. We just really miss you. We've been worried about you.”

“Thanks, you guys. But I’m still going to stay away for a while. That still wasn’t okay for me to hit you like that, Rainbow. The thing is, I don’t know what happened back there. I haven’t felt that kind of rage in years. And it’s starting to scare me. I mean, if we were back in Equestria? Who knows… you might be a pile of ash right now. And I’d be locked up somewhere in Tartarus.”

She heard Rainbow swallow and give a weak laugh.

“I just don’t want to hurt any of you. What if it happens again and I can't control it?”

“Yeah. Take some time if you need to. But really—whatever’s going on, you don’t have to do it alone. Cause that’s what we got each other for, right?”

Sunset smiled to herself. “I’ll keep that in mind, Rainbow. Talk to you soon, okay? Thanks again for not staying mad at me.”

“It’s cool, yeah. Talk to ya later.”

Sunset pressed the button and ended the call. Looking at the screen on her phone, she noticed two missed calls from Adagio. When? From the timestamps, it appeared the first was during her morning ride before the library on Saturday. The second was just last night.

She took a seat again on the bed, staring down at the phone between her hands. I miss her, too. I miss her so much. She took a slow a breath. But then, given what Twi said—and I agree…

Sunset whispered to herself, “I’m sorry ‘Dagi. There’s just so much I don’t know right now. So much could go wrong if these fears end up being true.”

But I can’t just shut her out. What if I’m wrong about all of this?

After a few more moments of thought, she typed out a text message.

‘Hey. I’m sorry I missed your calls… I just need to take a few days to work through some things here. Don’t be worried. Hope to talk to you soon.’

Sunset briefly considered whether spending so much time with the ex-sirens could have exposed her to some trace of their old influence. Could some residual effect of their magic—even if subconscious—be sparking this irritability and bringing her latent rage back to the surface?

I can’t keep dwelling on this—I’ll drive myself crazy. Convincing herself that her side-projects presented quite a lot of work to make up, she loaded her backpack and finished getting ready to head into town.

***

Following a day of moderately productive project work at her favorite coffee shop, Sunset strolled down the Main Street sidewalk on her way home. With her apartment only a mile and a half from the cafe, the brisk early-evening air made for a refreshing walk.

A glow of warmth amid the frosted cityscape caught Sunset’s eye across the street. “Oh, wow. That’s new.” She trotted across to join the sparse crowd which had gathered around a roaring community fire pit. If she hadn’t just finished her third refill at the coffee shop, the elderly hot-chocolate vendor might have scored another sale. Instead, she simply returned his smile and then lifted her hands to the fire.

Sunset grinned warmly to herself and closed her eyes. Adagio would like this, too.

As if on cue, a gust of wind blew past and chilled the back of her legs. She opened her eyes with an exasperated sigh. Seriously? You can’t even give me this one little moment?

Sunset tried to refocus her thoughts on the warmth of the fire. After a few more minutes of willing herself to relax, she readjusted her backpack and made her way back across the street to resume the walk home. While she was crossing, her phone rang. At the sight of Adagio’s number, she hovered her thumb above the button for a few moments, before finally answering and bringing the phone to her ear.

“Hey, you.”

Adagio's voice was quiet. Sullen. “Sunset. Hi.” After a few moments of silence, she continued, “How have you been? We haven’t heard from you in a few days. And when you didn’t pick up either of my calls…”

“I’m sorry, yeah. Didn’t mean to worry you.”

“The text did help, though. So thanks for that.”

Sunset glanced down to avoid the curb as she finished crossing the street. Looking up again, she found herself before a large storefront window. The fire pit across the street behind her was clearly visible in the glass.

Her mind staggered momentarily as the orange glow wreathed her reflection in flames.

The darkened glass around the edge of the window seemed to stretch and fade until it filled Sunset’s periphery. She watched as the flames darkened her skin to a familiar reddish hue. Her eyes went black, and a jagged grin crept onto her face.

“—unset…”

“ Sunset?”

Sunset pressed her eyes closed and shook her head a few times, nearly dropping her phone. Looking up at the window again, her reflection appeared as it always had. What in the world is going on?

She cleared her throat. “Ugh, sorry. I think I almost drifted off there—I still haven’t slept well the last few nights and I think it's messing with my head. I’m so tired, Adagio.” She let out a defeated breath. “Can I just talk to you later?”

“Sunset, wait.”

“What is it?”

“You’ve been so distant the last few days. We're worried about you. Would you… want to come out to dinner with Aria and Sonata and myself tonight? I’d just like to see you. I’m thinking Kingston’s, even.” Sunset could hear her grinning over the phone. “My treat?”

Sunset took a deep breath and closed her eyes. I should give this one more try. I owe her that much. I’d feel terrible giving up on her if this really is just all in my head. Besides… heh. She knows I do love that place.

“Alright, sure. But like I said, I’m sort of in sleep-dep mode right now, so I can’t guarantee how lively I’ll be. Does seven sound good?”

“It does. See you then, Sunset.”

***

Running a few minutes late, Sunset pulled up a block from the restaurant, which was not quite a mile from the Dazzlings’ modest house on the edge of town. Despite being one of the higher-priced destinations in the city, its crowd overflowed nightly to the seating on the outdoor patio. It was there that she found Adagio, Aria and Sonata already enjoying their drinks.

As Sunset made her way to their table, Adagio stood and met her with a warm hug. “Sunset. I’m glad you could make it.”

She could feel Adagio’s smile as their cheeks met before pulling back. Sunset sat down facing the restaurant windows, with her back to the street and Adagio sitting to her right. “It is good to see you guys. And sorry. I’ve just… had a lot going on these last couple days.”

“I suppose we all know that feeling,” Adagio replied, as she watched the wine swirling in her glass. “I got you some water to start with, but you're welcome to order something else when he comes back.”

“I think I’m fine with this.” She looked around the table at the three of them, and then took in the warmth that this little oasis offered against the dark of the winter evening. With a long breath, she relaxed in her chair. “This is nice, guys. Thanks.”

Adagio placed a hand over Sunset’s and rubbed her thumb back and forth with another smile. “Hmm. I’m glad.”

Three candles warmed the center of each table on the patio, and a number of gas heating lamps lined the waist-high fence at its perimeter. It seemed the restaurant ownership was determined to retain their outdoor seating in spite of the snow dusting the ground this time of year.

When the waiter returned, the four of them placed their orders. Following a round of light conversation, their food arrived. After some time spent eating, it was Sonata who finally brought up the topic Sunset had been dreading. “So... what’s been going on the last few days?”

Sunset nearly choked at the direct, unfiltered question. After swallowing, she wiped her mouth with her napkin. “Sorry, Sonata. Maybe later. It’s just something I’d rather not get into right now.” Looking around the table, she returned Sonata’s innocent smile with one of her own. “I’d just like to enjoy this with you guys tonight.”

Adagio “hmm”d comfortably. “I can understand that. And I agree, this is nice. It is good to see you again, Sunset.” As they continued eating, the conversation returned to matters of work and to stories of their various creative pursuits.

While waiting for the check, Adagio suggested that Aria and Sonata go around the corner and pick up a cheesecake for back at the house. “We’ll meet you guys there in a bit.”

Aria raised a suspicious eyebrow. “We get to pick which flavor?”

Adagio nodded while absorbed in some activity on her phone.

“You’re on.” With a devious grin, she and Sonata stood quickly and made their way toward the confectioner a few blocks away. As they left, the waiter set the check down in front of Adagio. She gave him a light wave and went back to tapping.

Sunset crossed her arms and looked down. Should I go back to their place again? She just sort of assumed and didn’t even ask. But… this evening really has been nice so far. I probably am just being ridiculous with all these worries, right? Still, though…

A camera flash from Adagio’s phone startled Sunset, and she tensed up in her seat. When she looked up, Adagio was wearing a playful grin.

“Figured that’d get your attention. You spaced out again, silly.”

Adagio scooted her chair closer and put an arm around Sunset. She leaned her head in—almost cheek to cheek—and held her phone so they could both see the picture. “So serious…”

Sunset forced a smile and a half-hearted laugh, but then closed her eyes and took a breath. A cold breeze whipped down the street behind them, chilling her lower back through her coat. Adagio was leaning in so close, however, that her hair provided some shelter for Sunset’s shoulders. She turned and brushed her nose against Sunset’s cheek.

She’s so warm. She’s always so warm. And this feels so good.

Sunset lifted her eyes again and smiled softly.

“WaaooOOO! Bad bitches gettin’ busy!”

A male voice chided them from across the street. But by the time they pulled apart and turned to look, all Sunset could see were two hooded CHS sweatshirts walking into the shadows beyond the street lights.

She felt Adagio’s arm tense up around her and saw the knuckles on her other hand go white as she gripped the edge of the table. Looking up to her eyes, Sunset saw her glaring death at the shadows while growling “Oh, you’ll get yours…”

“Adagio…”

Adagio grumbled something, turned around and crossed her arms. “Oh, what I wouldn’t give for a few minutes of my old power right now.”

She then laughed and looked Sunset hard in the eyes. “And just imagine what you could have done to those two. Oh, the things I heard.” She grinned and raised an eyebrow. “Tempting, eh?”

Please don’t. Sunset wrapped her arms around herself, shivered and hunched down.

Adagio leaned in and put her arm around Sunset again. The smell of wine on her breath was something Sunset might have chuckled about under other circumstances, but with everything that had happened the last few days, she instead found it rather unsettling.

Adagio shook her head with a light laugh while running a slow finger along Sunset’s leg. Seductively, she said, “Oh come on. You can’t tell me that didn’t at least cross your mind.”

No… This can’t be happening.

Sunset jerked away and shot to her feet, tears swelling at the edges of her eyes. “Just what are you trying to do?!”

With a bewildered look, Adagio uncrossed her legs and stood up. “Sunset? What’s... gotten into you? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

Sunset stumbled back, turned around and began hurriedly walking away, glancing back over her shoulder every few seconds. She saw Adagio toss a single bill from her purse onto the table and start after her.

As Adagio caught up beside Sunset, she reached out and placed a hand on her shoulder.

Sunset jerked away and spun back to face her.

“I’m not going back! I won’t let you take me.”

Adagio froze mid-motion and lowered her arms. “...what?”

“I watched what you did to Trixie and the others in the cafeteria. A... tempting touch here, a seductive word there. It doesn't matter how sexy and powerful you make it sound; that part of me is dead! And I want her to stay that way. I don’t ever want to see her hideous red face again!”

“Sunset....”

Sunset wrapped her arms around herself and huddled over, rocking forward and back.

The nightmares. Oh, dear Celestia, the nightmares. And then all of the signs.

She pressed her eyes closed. “Whatever power you still have, I won’t let you wake up that darkness again inside me.”

“Sunset Shimmer.”

The sudden maternal tone shook Sunset out of her swirl of thoughts and she looked up.

Adagio raised a hand to the space below her neck. “Where is all of this coming from? You don’t honestly believe any of that.”

Sunset closed her eyes and tightened the grip around her arms as a creeping guilt paralyzed her voice. She suddenly wanted to turn invisible, or to shrink into nothing. To be anywhere but here.

“Oh dear god,” Adagio gasped. “You do.”

When Sunset turned back to face her, she was met with a breathless wide-eyed look.

“Adagio. I…”

There were so many things Sunset’s mind was screaming at her to say.

No. I’m sorry.

I really don’t believe any of that.

Your friendship is so important to me.

I want you to be a part of my life.

But as each new thought arose, the sandstorm of doubt and fear choked the words in her throat, and the pained look of betrayal darkened across Adagio’s face.

Bristling with anger, Adagio narrowed her eyes and dug into a pocket on her jeans. “Well you know what?!” She fished out a small object and flung it at Sunset, striking her square in the chest. “Take a good long look at that!” Wrapping her arms around herself and blinking back tears, she started forward and clipped Sunset with her shoulder as she sidestepped past. “And ‘fuck you’ too.”

The words slammed Sunset in the gut. Gasping, she turned and took a half step, reaching a hand out after Adagio—but then surrendered and let it fall back to her side. Adagio shook with a sob as she hurried away. Sunset watched her lift a sleeve to her eyes before rounding the corner.

And then silence.

The fog from Sunset’s breath lingered under the cold street lights. When she turned and bent down to retrieve what Adagio had thrown, both her hand and her breathing stopped short. Lying in the snow between her earlier footprints was a thin strip of black satin strung through an empty gold clasp.

Sunset’s legs gave out and she dropped hard to her knees. The delusions dancing through her head crashed to the ground like shattered mirrors.

“Oh, dear Celestia…” She picked up the broken necklace and clutched it to her chest. “What did I just do?”

Sunset’s thoughts began racing as she frantically bit her lip. Ignoring the snow soaking through her jeans, she fumbled inside her jacket pocket, pulled out her phone and dialed. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. “Please…”

…

“Sunset, dear? How are you?”

Hunching forward again, she choked out a sob and cried, “I need your help.”

Catch Me If I Fall

Sunset arrived at Carousel Boutique in a frantic state, nearly beside herself with guilt. Rarity had then hushed her upstairs to the couch in the second floor living room. It was there she still sat, with her arms folded on her knees and her head down.

Sunset felt the couch cushion sink to her right. When she looked up, Rarity handed her a glass of water. She dried her eyes and smiled before taking a drink. “Thanks, Rarity. I just really need someone to talk to right now.”

Rarity placed a gentle hand on her back. “I am sorry again for a few days ago. It was not my place to say anything to the others. But now, please, tell me what is wrong.”

“It’s probably not what you’re expecting.” Sunset set her glass on the table and took a deep breath. “My head's been such a mess these last few days. First I lose control on Rainbow like that. And now…” She covered her eyes with her palms before letting out a breath and running her hands through her hair. “I don’t know if Adagio will ever talk to me again after what I just did to her.”

Rarity gasped, her hand darting to her mouth. “Oh, goodness! Is there anything I can do?”

“I think you’re already doing it, just by listening. Thanks...” Sunset smiled at her softly and then looked down at the floor. “I’ve been so worried. I was so afraid she might be slipping back to what she used to be—and trying to take me with her. But it was all just ridiculous. All in my stupid head. And now, after tonight? What if I just pushed her there?” She brought a hand to her mouth as her voice cracked. “If nothing else, I think I just broke her heart.”

From there, Sunset shared with Rarity everything—about her nightmares, about her conversation with Twilight and the coincidental signs of the last few days. Through a few more tears, she explained what had happened earlier at the restaurant.

“I had been so sure some magical force was at work trying to warn me about getting too close to her, or falling into a trap. But really? I think it was just some part of me being afraid of the feelings I’m starting to have for her. And maybe all of this was my old-Equestrian-me’s way of dealing with it, especially with how horrible I used to be.” She slowly took another drink of water and then put her head down on her arms again.

After a few moments of Rarity rubbing her back, Sunset sat up and wrapped her arms around her middle. “What am I going to do? I can’t lose her, Rarity.”

Rarity took Sunset’s hands in her own. “I cannot imagine all hope is lost. You might be surprised at just how much can be mended through a bit of honest conversation and an apology.”

“I guess you’re right. But still… How could I have done that to her? She’s been nothing but warm and kind to me these last few months. There’s so much we’ve shared—so much we have in common. And then the letter from Celestia.” Sunset gave Rarity a look of utter sincerity. “She did that for me.”

Sunset sniffled and brought a sleeve to her eye. “And lately, in her own way, she’s made it clear she has feelings for me too. She’s been trying so hard to change. I must have hurt her so badly back there.” The memory of her heartache at Rainbow's recent comments drifted to mind. In a softer tone she added, “And I know exactly what that feels like.”

Rarity squeezed Sunset’s hands once. “I know you do.” She sighed regretfully. “I know.” After a moment, she nudged Sunset up by the shoulders. “However… I also know that you must talk to her. You need to go and fix this.”

“I know. It’s just… I don’t know how.” Sunset let out a long breath. She pulled Adagio’s broken necklace from her pocket. Turning it end over end in the light, she said, “What was I thinking?”

“Oh my." Rarity’s eyes fell to the gold clasp. "Is that what I think it is?”

“Yeah. Even after she stormed off in tears, it still didn't ‘click’ what I’d just done to her. Not until I saw that this is what she’d thrown at me to show how stupid I was being.”

Rarity gently took the necklace in her hand. “She still carries it with her, even after all this time.”

“Seems that way. I guess she keeps it as a reminder of what she doesn’t want to slip back into.” Sunset let out a defeated half-laugh and sniffled again. “Here, I’ve been the one helping her take every step. And now? I go and trip her at the finish line.” She put her forehead back down on her hands. “And then throw in a kick for good measure while she’s on the ground.”

“Thoughts and emotions are complicated things.” Rarity handed the necklace back to Sunset. “Do not be so hard on yourself. Because when you add regrets and fears, especially after everything you’ve been through…”

“You mean everything I’ve put myself through.”

“Well… yes. But, be that as it may, the scars are still there.”

As Rarity went to speak again, Sunset’s phone rang on the table. After picking it up, she lifted her other hand to her mouth and choked out, “It’s her.”

“Answer it, dear.”

Sunset pressed the button and lifted the phone to her ear. In a broken voice, she said, “Adagio… Hi.”

Adagio’s tone was firm, but sincere. “Sunset. Listen. We need to talk. I still don’t know what that was back there. But I’m not going to sleep tonight until we get to the bottom of it.”

After a few moments’ pause, Sunset responded, “Adagio, I—”

“This isn’t me asking you, Sunset. I presume you’re at home? I’m coming to pick you up.”

Sunset remained silent and looked up at Rarity.

Adagio sighed audibly over the phone, the edge in her voice dropping slightly. “Fine, you’re going to make me say it. Please, Sunset.”

Rarity nodded with a ‘go on’ gesture. Sunset answered, “You’re right—there is a lot we need to talk about. But I’m actually not at home. I could come and get you, though?”

“You know motorcycle helmets and I don’t get along.” Adagio grumbled something inaudible and sighed again. “I’ll just meet you there.”

“Where are we going?”

“That cafe over on Whitaker. Half an hour?”

“Alright. I’ll see you then.”

Sunset delayed pressing the END button, noticing that Adagio did the same for a few moments before finally hanging up and ending the call. Still holding the phone, she placed her other hand over it and lowered her head.

Rarity rested her hands gently on Sunset’s shoulders. “Go, darling. She’ll understand. If she really feels how you think she does, then she will understand.” She looked Sunset in the eyes and smiled. “Just tell her what you told me.”

“You’re right. I have to go do this. Can you believe it? After everything I just put her though, here she is reaching out to make things right.” Sunset lifted a hand to her mouth and shook her head as a few more tears streaked her face.

Brushing a hand on Sunset’s back, Rarity again smiled softly. Sunset caught—very briefly—the look of deep compassion in her eyes before she closed them and took a calming breath. “I am very happy for you. Go.”

The two then shared a long hug before standing up. Sunset put her jacket on and picked up her helmet.

“Thanks again, Rarity. This helped me more than you know.”

Rarity shared another smile with her. “It was my pleasure.” She then brought a hand to her chin and looked down in thought. After a moment, Sunset saw a glimpse of her unmistakable flash of inspiration, before it settled into a satisfied grin. “Allow me to walk you out.”

After descending the stairs together and into the boutique, Sunset continued toward the door, but Rarity stopped and said, “A moment?”

As Sunset turned around, Rarity flipped on the light and walked her over to a display case. Opening it, she retrieved a black cloth necklace. Hanging from its clasp was an elegant platinum G-clef—similar to those which adorned a number of Adagio’s outfits.

She passed the necklace gently to Sunset. “I’d like for you to have this.”

Holding the pendant reverently in one hand, Sunset traced a finger from her other down the strip of satin cloth. She let out a long breath. “Rarity… Are you sure? I can’t imagine how much you could actually sell this for.”

“Nonsense, darling. It is my gift.” She folded Sunset’s hand over the necklace. “What you do with it from here, however, is up to you.” She winked with a warm smile.

Sunset blinked back tears. She choked out a small laugh before wrapping Rarity in a hug.

“Thank you.”

Who We Choose to Be

Sunset arrived at the cafe around half-past ten. As she was fixing the cover over her bike, she could see Adagio through the window stirring some whipped cream into her mocha. A second mug sat on the table, its unmuddied black contents still letting off steam.

She smiled softly to herself. Just the way I like it.

And that’s interesting, she thought while walking toward the door. Despite the number of empty seats, Adagio had chosen the same corner booth which had made her so uncomfortable the last time she’d brought Sunset to this cafe.

Sunset stepped inside. The door's bell jingled behind her. Rounding the corner into the aisle, she met eyes with Adagio. The two looked at each other for a few moments before Sunset let out a heavy breath and lowered her head.

Adagio’s calm voice offered some reassurance. “Sunset. It’s alright. Come sit.”

Sunset considered for a few more moments before sitting down and placing her helmet on the seat. “Adagio, I’m so—”

“Mmm—” Adagio halted her with a raised palm. She gave Sunset a soft look and then placed both of her upturned hands across the table. “Just sit with me for a moment?”

Sunset looked down at Adagio’s hands and joined them with her own. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath.

Always so warm…

When Sunset looked up again, she was met with a gentle smile.

“Look,” Adagio began. She lowered her eyes to their clasped hands. “I know that wasn’t really you back there earlier. After everything we’ve been through, I know that something must be going on right now that’s stressing you out, or… something.” She rubbed her thumbs over Sunset’s fingers and met her eyes again. “But whatever it is, I’d like to help you with it. If you’ll let me? You’ve done so much for me, Sunset.”

Sunset smiled at Adagio and blinked away a few tears. She took in another shaky breath and felt the weight of the past few days fall off her shoulders as she let it out. How in the world could I ever have doubted you?

“Thank you. And yeah, I would.”

Sunset pulled her hands back and wiped her eyes. “Oh, and also…” She reached into a pocket and gently placed Adagio’s broken necklace on the table between them. “I… brought this back.”

Adagio picked up the necklace and stared at it for a few moments. She let out a long breath before setting it down on the table again.

“But I also brought something else,” Sunset added. “I’m sure that necklace still has a lot of painful memories for you.”

Sunset pulled out the gift from Rarity and handed it across the table to Adagio. “So I thought that maybe... we could start making some new ones instead?”

Adagio took the pendant gently in one hand. With her other, she stroked the band just as Sunset had done earlier. She choked out a breath and then dried her eyes with a sleeve. “Sunset. This is beautiful. Where did you…?”

“I’m so sorry, Adagio. Sorry for putting you through all of that. For doubting you. When it really comes down to it, I think I was just scared.”

“Scared… Of what?”

“Of... what I used to be. Of what you used to be. Of whatever dark place we might slip back into. Your friendship means so much to me.

“And lately... this past week especially, I’ve realized just how much I want you to be a part of my life. And I guess it just scared me. And then my nightmares, and all the ‘signs’ lining up like they did... Even if it was all my imagination.” She lowered her head and wrapped her upper arms. “My mind was just a mess.”

Still looking at the necklace, Adagio took in another long breath. Sunset could see a weight drop off her shoulders as well when she let it out. “Thank you,” she said softly. “For telling me. That really does help. It means a lot to hear it from you.”

Adagio met Sunset’s eyes again. “And... there’s a reason I asked you to meet me here, Sunset. I'd suspected something like that was bothering you.” Opening the clasp on the necklace, she held it up to her neck. “But first, would you?”

Sunset stood up and took the seat next to Adagio. She reached over and latched the band behind her neck.

After situating the pendant between her vest, Adagio hooked an arm with Sunset and pointed out the window. “Look there. Do you know what’s just over those foothills?”

“Well, the main part of Canterlot City is over that way. If that’s what you mean?”

“Yes. And within that part of the city is the school, of course.”

Adagio looked down at the table. A long, slow breath followed. “I suppose it was just over a year ago now that I was sitting here, in this very same booth, with Aria and Sonata there in the other seat.”

“And this must have something to do with what was bothering you last time we were here?”

“Yes.” She pointed out the window again, and Sunset followed her indication back to the hills in the distance.

“It was the night of your Fall Formal.”

Sunset's eyes widened. She took in a long, shaky breath and let it out raggedly as her forehead rested against Adagio’s. All the while she stared out the window at the sky above the hills. One after another, memories of that night flooded into her mind.

In a matter of seconds, she relived every moment of that darkness she’d experienced while Twilight’s element consumed her. The greed, the surge, the loss of control, the despair. And finally, the hollow of utter emptiness as she lay broken in the crater, stripped bare by the cleansing magic of Harmony.

Looking down at the table, her mind still reeling, she managed to choke out a whisper. “So that’s when you knew…”

“That Equestrian magic could exist in this world, yes.”

Sunset placed her other hand on Adagio’s arm and lowered her head. A few steadying breaths later, she felt settled enough to continue. “So I guess… everything that’s happened to you since then, and everything you’ve lost; I’m sort of responsible for it in more ways than just one.”

Sunset felt a hand lift her chin, and she looked up at Adagio.

“Yes. But also for everything we’ve gained, Sunset.” Adagio took both of Sunset’s hands in her own. “Don’t you see? Even with everything you and I used to be, look at who we are today. This last month has brought me more happiness than any... decade of my old power. Aria and Sonata feel the same way. And we have you to thank for that.”

Sunset let out the breath she’d been holding and smiled softly. “Hearing you say that warms my heart so much. But I still feel like I don’t deserve it.” She leaned in and gave Adagio a warm hug. “I’m so sorry I doubted you, and that I hurt you like that.” She pulled back and took both of Adagio’s hands again, looking down at them with a frown. “Because... I know exactly what that feels like.”

Sunset took a long drink and then closed her eyes. “After that day, when I decided I really wanted to change, I tried so hard. So hard. And still—after everything—there are people who don’t trust me or don’t believe it’s genuine. Those two jerks by the restaurant, for example.

“And it hurts. I know I’ve only got myself to blame, but it still hurts. And then what? I go and do the same thing to you.” She ran her hands through her hair, and her voice began to tremble. “Some friend, huh?”

“You’re right,” Adagio said flatly. “It did hurt. I could hardly see straight when I was walking away, between the anger... and the tears.”

Guilt rose again in Sunset’s throat. But as she looked up, Adagio put a hand over hers.

“You’ve been such an inspiration to me, Sunset. And if I’m honest, the reason I’ve been trying to so hard to change lately is for you as much as myself. So for you, of all people, to say those things to me…”

Sunset went to speak, but Adagio again held up a hand.

“But I get it now. I think we both do. I think this whole thing has actually helped us both to grow.”

“I… guess it has. And the way you’re handling this is something I’ve always admired about you.” Sunset put an arm around Adagio and leaned her forehead against hers again. She brushed Adagio’s cheek with her nose and whispered, “Thank you.”

Sunset pulled back and smiled softly. “I really mean it. Thank you Adagio—for bringing me here. This has really... helped me put things in perspective. All this time, I’ve been so worried about that part of me escaping again that I’ve kept her shut away in a dark corner—tried to ‘kill’ her, even. But I get it now. That is a part of me. I can’t just bury it or... run away from it. I did those horrible things.”

“But that’s not who you are today.”

Sunset nodded firmly. “All that stuff shaped me, yeah. But I see now it doesn’t have to define who I am. That comes from how I take each new day. And... now that I’ve honestly accepted all this, I think those nightmares will be a thing of the past, too.”

After a drink of her coffee, she took Adagio’s hands again, giving her a soft smile. “And what about you? You have told me—just again tonight—that you’re happier now... and don’t often miss what you used to be.”

“I am, yes.” Adagio let go with one hand and took another drink as well. Her focus appeared to turn inward with a slow breath. “It’s also what I tell myself when I look in the mirror every morning. And I really do believe her now, when the girl in the reflection says it back to me.”

She looked back to Sunset and continued, “But there is always that shadow over her shoulder. That alluring... immortal memory of everything she and I used to be.”

Sunset rubbed a hand behind her neck and asked ashamedly, “Is... that part of what was going on Saturday morning? I sort of… eavesdropped a bit, and saw you playing dress-up in front of the mirror.” She winced and shook her head. “That was so stupid of me. Because when I saw you in that dress again, with your ‘still got it’ bit, that was a big part of what set me off on this whole paranoia binge.”

“And let me guess. You ran off at just that moment and didn't hear what I said right after.”

“Hmm... yeah.” She laughed and felt her cheeks blush. “Guilty.”

Adagio grinned back at her playfully. “My, how positively Heathcliff of you.”

Sunset perked up again with a matching grin. “Oh yea, Catherine? Well then... What did I miss?”

Adagio narrowed her eyes and laughed. “Clever pony.”

She placed both hands on her coffee mug and looked down at it with a deep breath. “I had a realization that morning in front of the mirror. And I can still remember my exact words. I'd said, while looking at myself, ‘Yeah, I do still got it. But I really don’t need it… Not any more.’ And then I remember smiling softly at my reflection, undoing my belt, and changing into something more comfortable.”

She took another drink. “And, while it wasn’t a new thought, something in that moment struck me again about everything you'd done for me. And I really felt the need to get out there and give you a hug.” Her eyes fell to the space between them. “But then… Sonata told me you’d just rushed out of the house with hardly a word.”

Sunset took a heavy breath. “Well…” She placed her hand over Adagio’s and met her eyes when she looked up. “How about a rain-check?”

When Adagio raised an eyebrow in response, Sunset slowly wrapped her in another tight hug—which was warmly returned.

After holding the embrace for a minute or so, they went back to their drinks, and Adagio smiled softly to herself. “I’d been putting that dress on in front of the mirror once a week or so for the last several months. I guess... it was part longing for what we’d lost, but also out of regret for everything we'd done. Though after that morning, I knew it was the last time. I needed to finally be rid of the dress—and its memories—once and for all.”

Sunset chuckled. “So... what. You’re just gonna bury it in your closet to get eaten by moths?” After a moment, she grinned with a flash in her eyes. “Orrrr, we could burn it.”

Adagio smiled back and shook her head with a laugh. “Always the fire with you, isn’t it. Hmm...” She lifted a finger to her chin for a few moments and then turned to meet Sunset’s eyes.

“I have a better idea.”

***

Sonata took a bite out of her dinner roll as she looked out the wide, grand windows of the banquet room. The sequins on her evening gown glittered like the sun on the white-capped waves outside. “This was a good idea, Dagie. It feels so good to be out here. Like… we’re close to home. Even if that was so long ago.”

Aria chuckled and leaned back in her chair. “It does, doesn’t it? Why didn’t we do this more often back when we could get it all for a song?”

Adagio laughed and then smiled at both of them. “Well, we’re here now. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned from her these past few months—” she picked up Sunset’s hand and kissed it softly “—it’s that finding happiness means simply making the most of each day as it’s given to us.”

She lifted her glass, and the others did the same.

After drinking to their toast, Sunset shook her head with a light laugh. “I still can’t believe the variety—and the amount—of food here. It’s just… And there’s no charge for any of it beyond the tickets? I’ve never been on a cruise before, so this is all kinda blowing my mind.”

Aria smiled and sat forward again. “Well, you’ve got two weeks to get used to it. Even if your clothes may hate you by the end.” She ran her fingers along the black straps of her gown with an approving look down both sides. “And I know I’m usually ‘whatever’ when it comes to clothes, but damn. These dresses look amazing, Adagio.”

“They really do,” Sunset said. “You and Rarity outdid yourselves. I’m glad you two found so much in common with your creativity. And she really enjoys having your help, and someone to finally talk to about all of that… design stuff.” She waved a hand in the air at the last few words.

“The girl is quite the creative genius, yes,” Adagio replied. “Rather amazing on a number of levels.”

Sunset glanced at the pendant hanging just below Adagio’s neck and smiled warmly. “Yeah. She is, isn’t she?”

“I just love the way my dress sparkles,” Sonata added. “Even when I’m walking, it reminds me of how I used to feel swimming through the water back in Equestria. It just makes me happy.”

Sunset looked at her plate and poked the salad with her fork. “So much really has changed for you guys, huh? And then with what you said, Aria—about ‘getting all this for a song.’ Even though I know things are good now... I do still regret having to take so much away from you three.” She looked up at each of them in turn.

Adagio smiled. “Yeah. We kinda would have had everything, if not for you. And I don’t mean you all. I mean you, Sunset Shimmer. But then, what would any of it really have accomplished?”

Aria looked down at her plate for a moment, but then smiled as well. “Yeah, she’s right.”

Sonata rubbed Aria on the shoulder with an, “Mm-hm.”

Adagio went on, “Granted, if your other friends had found some way to pull it off without you, I’m sure they would have also tried to... ‘help’ us. But I think you know what I mean when I say... it wouldn't have been the same.”

Sunset closed her eyes. She thought on the bond they shared by way of their contact with the Elements, and it warmed her heart to hear this realization from Adagio as well. She gave Adagio a soft smile, returning her touch on the hand from earlier.

“Yeah,” she said. “I do.”

After a few more bites, Aria leaned back in her chair and turned toward Adagio. “So. You ready?”

Adagio looked out the window toward the sun hanging low over the water. “Hmm, yes. I suppose it’s that time, isn’t it?” She slid out her chair and stood up. “I’ll see you girls there?”

Sonata clasped her hands with a smile. “Yeah. Let’s do it.” She and Aria stood up and followed Adagio toward the door.

Sunset shared a wave with the three of them before they split off to their cabins.

Taking a deep breath and looking out the windows, she sat for a moment and considered everything that had happened over the last eight months. From their encounter in the dark school hallway, to the magic battle on the hill, through the pain of the past week, and then finally to where the four of them were now.

She closed her eyes and smiled as a warm glow settled in. With another deep breath, she stood up and made her way to the rear deck of the ship.

Following a few minutes of looking out across the waves at the dipping sun, Sunset turned around and saw the three of them walking toward her with a bundle under each of their arms.

When they reached the railing, Sonata took her old stage outfit between both hands and then stroked the small necktie on its shirt. “I can at least keep this, right? I love my little tie.”

Aria placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and smiled. “Just let it go, Sona.”

With a sigh, Sonata said, “You’re right…” After another few moments of hesitation, she leaned over the railing and let the clothes fall into the water. “Bye bye, little tie.” She sniffled as Adagio put a hand on her other shoulder.

Aria looked down at her own outfit and then pressed her eyes closed. “All those years. And all that anger.” She gripped fistfuls of the material. Her knuckles went pale as tears streaked her face. With another breath, she whispered, “Take it with you.” and tossed the clothes into the wind.

Adagio moved to stand in between them. She lowered her head and closed her eyes with a look of introspective calm. Following a few silent breaths, she looked up again and released her bundle over the edge. Placing arms around Aria’s and Sonata’s shoulders, she pulled them into an embrace. And as the dresses disappeared beneath the waves, she said softly, “Back to the ocean.”

A minute or so of silence followed, before Sunset walked up to the railing beside them. “How do you feel?”

Adagio lifted her head and responded, “Light.” She took a breath through her nose and let it out again. “I feel lighter.”

Aria leaned her elbows on the rail and nodded. “You’re right. I feel it too.”

“Dessert.” Sonata looked up as three faces turned to stare at her. “What? I feel happier now. I want some dessert.”

“And I suppose you’re right, too.” Moving to her other side, Aria put an arm around Sonata’s shoulders and led her away. “Let’s go, dork. Time to make ‘em regret putting ‘24-hours’ together with ‘all you can eat.’”

Adagio stepped over next to Sunset. The two leaned on the railing together, shoulder to shoulder with their evening gowns fluttering in the wind.

“This really was a great idea, Adagio. I do feel… free out here. Like we’re finally putting all of that behind us.” Sunset lowered her head and closed her eyes. “You really were there for me this week, even with everything I put you through. Thank you again.”

“You’re welcome. And it’s gone both ways. You know that.”

Sunset opened her eyes with a contented smile and nodded her head.

Adagio looked off toward the setting sun. “There’s just something about this time of day—about the colors in the sky as the sun touches the water. Even after hundreds of years, it’s still one of the most beautiful sights in either of these worlds.”

Sunset felt a hand rest gently over hers. She placed her other hand over Adagio’s and took in the beauty of her profile for a few moments before turning to look out across the horizon herself.

So warm.

She nudged Adagio playfully with her shoulder. “So. You do realize you're stuck with me for the next two weeks now.”

Adagio chuckled softly. With her eyes still locked on the distant waves, she pulled her hand back and placed a gentle arm around Sunset’s shoulders. Smiling, she said, “I think I'll manage.”

Sunset slid an arm around Adagio’s waist and brushed her cheek softly with her lips.

In silent reply, Adagio turned to face her.

The two closed their eyes and shared a tender kiss as the sun departed in a soft flash of green.

~fin~

Author's Note

And there we have it.

Some closing-credits music, borrowed from TrevorDark:

https://soundcloud.com/trevordark-1/the-magic-is-all-around-us — I like to (be cheesy and) imagine photographs of the fun the four of them might be having over the next two weeks slowly sliding by while the song plays over a black background.