Gunsmoke

Chapters

Chapter 02: Experiment
Chapter 03: Loner
Chapter 04: Confrontation
Chapter 05: Planning
Chapter 06: Friends
Chapter 07: Anxiety
Chapter 08: Jungle
Chapter 09: Ride
Chapter 11: Epiphanies
Chapter 13: Temptation
Chapter 14: Empathy
Chapter 15: Parallels
Chapter 16: Tactics
Chapter 17: Premonition
Chapter 18: Hellbound
Chapter 19: Melting
Chapter 21: Fortified
Chapter 22: Cover
Chapter 23: Badass
Chapter 24: Rush
Chapter 25: Blaze
Chapter 26: Glory
Chapter 27: Wake
Chapter 28: Vision
Chapter 29: Shadows
Chapter 30: Chances
Chapter 31: Hunter
Chapter 32: Rise
Chapter 34: Reset
Chapter 01: Desert Mirage
Chapter 10: Reminisce
Chapter 12: FullDive
Chapter 20: Luna
Chapter 33: Resurrection

Chapter 02: Experiment

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 02: Experiment

"So, what do you think?"

Twilight Sparkle looked away from the computer screen to the girl behind her and shrugged. "The readings are all over the place, Sunset." She then smiled. "But... that's the point of experiments!"

Sunset chuckled and walked over to where her diary rested, open to a pageful of notes. "I see you already sent the information you gathered to Princess Twilight?"

"Yes, I did!" Twilight said, pushing away from her desk and stretching before standing up. "She hasn't replied yet, but I'm sure she'll have some interesting theories about what's happening to you."

"I look forward to finding out just what my magic is doing to the system..." Sunset looked up at the clock.

"Um, I was hoping we could put in a few more hours of data analysis?" Twilight asked, stacking a few printouts together and giving Sunset a hopeful look.

Sunset shook her head. "I'm sorry, I can't, Twi. I promised the girls I'd be there in time for practice today." She grinned at the despondent look in her friend's face. "Doesn't mean that I don't want to help you with it! But we should wait until we see Princess Twilight's theory as well. Then I can help you bridge the magic component into science!"

"For science!" Twilight cheered, pumping up her fist.

Their conversation was cut short when Lemon Zest opened the door to the lab and peeked inside. "Hey, Sparkle! Are you ready for our—oh, hey Sunset."

"Hey, Lemon Zest," Sunset replied, bumping fists with the girl. "Don't worry about me, I was about to leave."

"No worries," Lemon Zest shrugged, leaning on the wall and glancing at all the equipment strewn around. "You two are really into science, aren't you?"

"Science is magic!" Twilight Sparkle stated.

Sunset rolled her eyes and chuckled, picking up her diary and putting it inside her backpack. "Well, let's get back together when we hear back from the Princess." She winked. "I'll leave you girls to do your thing."

Lemon Zest nodded, but just as Sunset was passing next to her she spoke up. "Are you and the Rainbooms participating in the state's music event?"

Sunset paused and nodded.

"Hm." Lemon Zest frowned, chewing her gum. "Well, don't expect me to take it easy on you girls just because we're friends."

Sunset grinned. "I wouldn't expect any different."

Lemon Zest nodded, then stepped forth to grab Twilight's hand. "Good. As for you, Twilight, come on. The others are waiting."

"B-but! Science!"

"Science can wait!" Lemon Zest insisted, dragging Twilight out of the lab. "Besides, I swear your dog has been hitting on Sunny Flare again!"

Sunset Shimmer chuckled, closing the lab door behind her. "See you later, girls!"

"B-bye!" Twilight called out just before she was pulled around a corner.

Sunset made her way out of Crystal Prep, nodding to the few students that had grown used to her presence by now, thanks to her frequent visits and her participation in the Friendship Games. She paused though, and looked around. For some reason she felt like someone was looking at her, but a scan of the crowd revealed nothing unusual, just the regular groups of students and staff.

Shrugging, she stepped out of the building, hurrying to her motorcycle, the feeling still nagging her just a little.

Sunset watched the others discussing the last song among themselves, having chosen to sit down after practice. 'How long before they notice? I've been distant, I'm sure I've smiled a lot less... I haven't even joined them to go out for a couple of weeks and yet... is it respect for my privacy or do they just...' She pulled her knees closer to herself, her finger strumming her guitar as it rested on the floor.

"So have any of you thought how we can make sure not to pony-up when playin' at the State Music Fair?" Applejack asked.

"I'm not sure, darling, but I think we really should figure it out. It would not do to lose because we suddenly grow tails and pony ears."

"Um, maybe we could... not get too excited?" Fluttershy suggested.

"What?! No." Rainbow Dash jumped up from stringing her guitar. "What's the point of competing if we don't give it our all? Right, Sunset?"

The girls all looked at their friend.

"Sunset?" Rainbow Dash repeated. "Earth to Sunset!"

Snapping out of her thoughts, Sunset gaped at the others. "Wh-what?"

"Geez, come on! You can't be bored already!" Rainbow Dash snapped.

"Sorry! I just—"

"Look, just tell us if you have any idea how we can avoid ponying-up for the fair," Rainbow Dash interrupted, crossing her arms.

"Rainbow Dash!" Rarity gasped. "That's no way to talk to your friends!"

"Well, she keeps ignoring us!" Rainbow Dash retorted, although she did glance away and cringe before looking back at Sunset. "We were here to practice, but she barely put her mind to it! This is important!"

"I'm sure she just has a lot of stuff to worry about," Fluttershy said, placing a hand on Rainbow Dash's arm. "We don't need to fight."

"Yeah, well, just because she gets to hang out with the Crystal Prep crew doesn't mean she should ignore us," Rainbow Dash grumbled, pulling her arm away.

"Now, Rainbow Dash, Ah'm sure it's not like that," Applejack spoke up. "Sunset's right here with us, ain't she? She's our friend."

"Come on, Dashie!" Pinkie Pie grinned. "It's not like you're not friends with Indigo Zap!"

"We're friendlies," Rainbow Dash grunted. "Not the same thing."

Pinkie Pie blinked. "What's the difference?"

Rainbow Dash pinched her nose. "Really Pinkie? It's simple. Friends care for each other, we share our problems and know when one of us is in trouble. We all get together and help whoever needs it. Friendlies... just greet each other on the street and hang out sometimes."

Sunset Shimmer felt a pang, but fighting it down, she simply sighed. "Well, it doesn't matter." When the others looked back to her, she shrugged. "I've thought about the pony issue, but I don't think it would be a problem. We are allowed to use special effects in the concert, as long as we're playing and singing live, after all. We can just tell them it's all for show."

"But won't we start shootin' rainbows?" Applejack ventured. "Ah'm all for pretendin' it's nothin', since it's still us doin' the singin', but... Ah don't want to blast the crowd."

"It would be quite a complicated thing to explain," Rarity agreed.

Sunset shook her head. "It's not a battle of the bands where we are fighting against the magic of an evil group of sirens, or a rampaging she-demon for that matter. We should do our best to not pony-up, but regardless of whether we do or not, we're not going to be blasting the crowd with friendship this time. We've managed to occasionally use our powers during practice to do different things, right? We even made a force-field recently when we did that one cover..."

"I don't like holding back," Rainbow Dash interrupted, crossing her arms and looking away. "What's the point of going if we're not going to do our best?"

Counting backwards in her mind to not get annoyed, Sunset nodded. "I'll try and figure out a way to keep the magic under control so we can play at our best without additional fireworks, but if we do pony-up, nothing should happen unless there's some sort of battle."

"Well, let me know when we're practicing again," Fluttershy said, standing up. "I have to get going if I want to make it in time to pick up Angel and read the other bunnies a bedtime story."

"See you later!" Pinkie bounced over to the others. "I baked a bunch of cupcakes this morning! Banana crunch! Who wants some?"

Rarity and Applejack shared a look. "Well, I could do with a latte," Rarity said thoughtfully.

"And Ah finished off my work this mornin'," Applejack said with a nod. "Ah'll take you up on some cupcakes, but you'd better have some apple ones too!"

Rainbow Dash grinned. "Set me up with a milkshake as well and I'm good to go! What about you, Sun—" she stopped. "Where did she go?"

'Figures that she wouldn't pay attention to what she was saying,' Sunset Shimmer thought as stomped her way down the hall. 'What kind of 'friend' does she think she is? I should—' She shook her head, forcing herself to let the vengeful thought go.

Looking around, she found an empty classroom and stepped into the darkened room, pacing back and forth for a moment before sitting down on one of the desks, resting her head in her hands. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Stupid. Don't think that way. You're not that person anymore. You don't use their weaknesses against them."

'Or am I? Maybe the effect of the Elements of Harmony was temporary. Maybe I'm showing my true colors again.

"It doesn't work that way," she argued lamely and sighed.

The silence in the room was comforting, but she still felt a bit empty as she gazed at the blackboard, like there was a weigh pushing on her chest and if she didn't remember to breathe she'd just stop doing so. "Am I actually their friend?" she wondered, "can I even say I am, when I'm not able to get through to them on how I feel?"

Unbidden, she remembered Rainbow Dash's words: 'Friends care for each other, we share our problems and know when one of us is in trouble.'

"But if you never see past the surface, how can you know I'm in trouble?" she muttered. She glanced down at the desk. "If that's true at all... am I even your friend?"

She tapped absently on the desk. All she cares about is that damn competition. It's not like they've needed me before to make the finals. If the Dazzlings hadn't appeared, I wouldn't even be part of the group. All I was, was a crony trying to vie for their friendship by being helpful because that was the only way I could think of—

"I'm reading too much into it." Sunset sighed. After a moment of thought, she pulled out her diary. Princess Twilight hadn't replied yet to the experiments Sunset and Twilight had done in this world, but that didn't matter much at the moment. Drawing a little design of her own cutie mark to indicate a break from the information they had sent over, Sunset debated what to say.

Finally, she just wrote the question that was bugging her.

Dear Princess Twilight,

If someone claims to be your friend, but doesn't care about how you feel and makes you feel like the only reason you're around is to fix problems... are they really your friend?

~Sunset Shimmer

Desert Mirage slowly crawled on her stomach, feeling the loose pieces of concrete scratch against her armor. The city around her provided plenty of cover for the most part, but against this amount of enemies it was only a matter of time before someone spotted her. Unless she was inside a building with no windows, she only had so many ways of moving around without drawing attention to herself.

She smirked when an explosion a couple of blocks away shook the windows of the nearby buildings. It seemed her pursuers had found her mine. 'It's not the first time I've had to deal with a hunting party, boys,' she thought as she took advantage of the moment and pushed up, running towards an upturned school bus. She chuckled. 'You hired me once, too, Surgeon. You should know better than to mess with me.

She didn't know what was the warning sign that gave the sniper away. Maybe it was sunlight reflecting off of the scope, or a sixth sense, but—had she not jumped and rolled to the right when she did—her head would have been blown off her shoulders. "Crap!"

She turned the roll into a running start, going around the corner of the nearest building. If the sniper had spotted her, Surgeon's team would have been informed already. She checked her timer. Still a few minutes to go before her mantle would be able to be activated again. Cursing under her breath, she studied her surroundings. 'Knowing "The Surgeon", he's already mobilized his squadron. I need to take care of that sniper.

Desert Mirage grimaced and started running around the building. "I need to figure out how to get close enough but—" she stopped and swore yet again. The street was a dead end, with a collapsed building in the way. Too high to jump, and even then, she would be within sight of the building where she suspected the sniper to be.

She walked up to the collapsed building. I've got a few more seconds at most... what to do?! the metallic scrape under her boot made her stop, and she looked down.

She smiled.

"We've got all the streets covered now! Keep an eye out, when she makes a run for it, shoot! Don't you dare miss again!"

"Okay, okay!" Reed muttered into the radio. He didn't even know why he had agreed to this. He was relatively new to the game, and now he was here, hunting down one of the most notorious PK'ers in the whole game. "I should've said no. But I had to be ambitious." He chuckled to himself, eyeing the streets through his scope.

He saw movement, but a quick re-positioning only revealed more of his team. They were looking all over the place for Desert Mirage, but there was no sign of her. Had she logged off?

It was then that the street where his squadmates were standing went up in flames. "What the? She's not there!" He swiped around, frantically looking for any sign of Desert Mirage, thinking that she would risk running with that distraction once more, but all he saw was another squad blasted away as soon as they stepped on... a manhole cover?

"The sewers!" he shouted, quickly pulling down to look at the street just in front of his building. He felt his blood run cold when he noticed the manhole in front of it was open.

"Smart boy."

He felt the gun push against the back of his head and gulped. He watched as she took his radio. "Hey, Surgeon," she said into the radio.

There was no answer for a few seconds, then a click and a resigned sigh. "Mirage."

"I found your sniper. You need smarter teammates."

"Tell me about it." Another sigh. "How do you want to do this?"

"I can kill you all, or you can vacate the area," Mirage offered. "But whatever happens, I'm going to have some words with you at the Capital. I know I'm not working for you right now, Surgeon, but this was uncalled for."

A chuckle. "Fine, we're done here. I've got what I needed. I'll meet you at the bar."

The transmission cut.

"Um... it wasn't personal?" Reed tried to keep his voice from shaking.

"Things in this place never are," Desert Mirage said, pulling the trigger.

"I want to say that I didn't feel good pulling the trigger. Gun Gale Online might only be a Virtual MMO, but the technology is just... beyond my dreams. Twilight's experiments aside, there is a freedom here that I can't bring to the real world.

"Here I can be as tough as I want, I can even lash out without really hurting anyone. I can excel at what I do. Use tactics I learned while still in Equestria and from the books I've read. I can mine for information. I can extort, threaten, blackmail and even start a criminal syndicate within reason and as long as people are not threatened in RL. Here, nothing is personal. Nothing escalates past some light frustration.

"So it should be easy to be the best I can be, both as a combatant and as a person. And yet... and yet I pulled the trigger when I could have let the rookie go. They say that your emotions will always display in full when in this game. That if you feel like crying, you can't hold it back like in the real world. How does that translate with anger and frustration? How does that translate with my true personality, if there is such a thing, and if it's being held back by magic?

"Am I liberating myself here, am I just escaping reality, or am I going to have to confront something darker inside me than I ever thought possible?

"I guess only time will tell. Save log."

Author's Note

Second chapter out! Now, some of you might've noticed that I've added some characters to the character list. This is basically for those following the story as it's published. Obviously by the end of it, the list will be complete and it will be sort of spoilerish for new readers, but we can't do much about it and be fair to the system, can we?

So, yes! This is indeed Gun Gale Online! Well done for those of you that guessed correctly! Although I have to admit Bumblebee Turner's guess was very intriguing. I've never watched that anime, but the gun thing made a lot of sense given how the last chapter was written.

One last thing, I am using my preferred ending from EqG3, which is Twilight returning to Crystal Prep (now with friends!). Besides the fact that I like it, it's also plot relevant, so keep that in mind if you want to protest the decision.

Anyway, don't forget to comment! It feeds my soul!

Chapter 03: Loner

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 3: Loner

Sunset Shimmer's apartment wasn't in the best location in town, but it wasn't a dump either. When she had crossed the mirror, years back, among the many things she had brought with her had been several large gems, which she had invested appropriately after a few month's worth of research first at Canterlot High, then with more specialized individuals once she understood how the internet worked.

The apartment complex itself was pretty standard, but roomy enough, with the kitchen window to the left to the entrance, facing the front, a small hallway with the kitchen and dining room on the left, her room and guest room/office on the right, and the living room in the back. She had talked to the others about moving maybe to a small house later on, but for now, the apartment fitted her just fine.

None of the girls had known that until they had become friends and Sunset had invited them over one night for pizza and movies. In a way, Sunset was loaded with money... she just didn't care to show it off too much, even when she was lording her superiority over everyone in Canterlot High.

Rainbow Dash shook her head. All of that didn't matter, because she wasn't here to appreciate how well her friend managed her finances after all. She was here to talk to Sunset and see if she was ready to get rid of that chip on her shoulder and sort things out.

Still, she hesitated at the door, fist raised to knock. She had seen Sunset pull up a few minutes ago from across the street, so she knew Sunset was at home, but lately Sunset had done everything she could to avoid them when they were not practicing for the concert. It really felt like she wasn't interested in hanging out anymore.

Rainbow Dash frowned and glared at the door. "There's no point in avoiding it, I'm already here," she whispered. She raised her fist more firmly and was about to knock when the phone rang in the kitchen. She heard Sunset's footsteps and greet the caller.

"Hello? Twilight? I'm going to put you on speakers for now, I have a lot to do, okay?" Sunset said from within her kitchen.

"No problem!" Twilight's voice responded, loud and clear even to Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow grimaced. Should she knock? Or wait? Before she could act, Twilight's voice came up again. "Are you still up for our session today?"

"Of course!" Sunset replied enthusiastically, and Rainbow could hear her moving some dishes. "But you'll have to forgive me, I went ahead and jumped in again last night. I really needed to clear my mind."

"Well, as long as you didn't do anything extreme..."

"Nothing too crazy."

"Good! Hopefully today's experiment will yield some new results! By the way, I just spoke to Lemon Zest earlier, she double-checked the rules like you asked, and she says even if you girls pony up as long as it's considered a visual effect, it shouldn't affect the judging."

"Well, I'm sure Rainbow Dash will be happy to know that I was right," Sunset replied. "It'll make their performance easier, at least."

Rainbow Dash blinked. She didn't like the sound of that.

"Sunset, what's wrong?" Twilight asked after a moment of silence. "You sound... angry. And you said their performance. Aren't you playing with them?"

Sunset was quiet, and for almost half a minute all Rainbow Dash could hear were plates being washed. Finally, with a long sigh, she responded, "they don't need me."

Rainbow leaned against the door, biting her lip to stop herself from speaking up.

"Sunset..." Twilight said. "What's going on?"

"Twilight, they're great girls, but I'm not sure they even want to be my friends and—"

"That's absurd!" Twilight interrupted. "You know that."

"Then why don't they care about how I feel?" Sunset snapped, loudly putting down whatever she had been holding at the time. "It's all about the stupid concert in the stupid fair. All about their needs, and their issues, and their problems, and their music. If I don't matter, I don't want anything else to do with it."

Twilight responded something, but Rainbow Dash wasn't listening. She had already pushed away from the door and was marching down the hallway.

Rainbow Dash snarled, clenching her fists tight. "Stupid concert?" she growled, "if she wants to do something else, with someone else, then she's welcome to it!" She shook her head. "If that's how she wants to play it, that's how it's going to be!" Neither she nor her friends needed to hang out with someone that felt like it was a drag to share the same room.

She pulled out her cell phone and wrote a quick text message.

"That's a lie and you know it." Twilight's voice was borderline angry.

Sunset took a deep breath, dried her hands, and slid down to sit on the floor, placing her phone next to her. "I don't know sometimes, Twilight. I've tried to tell them how I feel, but they just brush it off as if it didn't matter. I'm so afraid to lose them, but they don't seem to want to listen at all."

"Why not?" Twilight's voice was lower now, all traces of anger gone.

"Because the last time I told them how I felt, they just said everything would be alright." Sunset closed her eyes. "It's one thing to assure me that if I make a mistake it's not a big deal, but... how can they understand what I—what we went through? When I saw you after the games, you knew. You knew exactly what I didn't say."

Twilight was silent for a moment. "Isn't it a bit unfair to expect them to understand something that? It's not like they've lived through it in the flesh."

"I know. But you also know how they can be. Especially Rainbow Dash. I know she doesn't mean to be so pushy, and that it's just that she's passionate..." Sunset tapped the back of her head gently against the counter behind her. "...but they're not trying, Twilight. I've reached out and they just think I'm moody and that I'll get better with a milkshake and ignoring the issue. Why can't they see how I feel? Even your friends noticed my mood."

"It's sometimes easier to notice these kinds of things in people you don't see every day," Twilight pointed out, "don't be too harsh on them."

Sunset nodded, then realized Twilight couldn't see that. "Yeah. I know. I'll see if I can talk to them tonight—we're meeting for dinner at that new burger place downtown, the one with the stuffed patties. Maybe we can sort this out over dinner."

"I'm happy to hear that!" Twilight giggled. "Okay! I'll see you soon then. I'll have the modified Amusphere ready, so don't forget your book! I'm so excited! Did you arrange for something today, or are we doing whatever we want?"

Sunset smiled. "Yeah, I'm going on a raid with a small squad. Perfect timing to test if magic affects a full dive."

"Perfect! See you soon!"

"Bye!"

"Okay, if Princess Twilight's response to my notes is correct, then all we need now is to put the book here..." Twilight muttered, placing Sunset's diary carefully inside an electronic box she had constructed.

"Are you sure that's safe?" Sunset asked a little nervously, "that looks like a microwave."

"Oh, don't worry about that!" Twilight smiled. "It doesn't actually produce any sort of energy—it just captures the theumatic waves that emanate from your diary once we activate it! Just like Princess Twilight's mirror in Equestria."

Sunset examined the machine in question, but at least to her eyes there didn't seem to be any obvious problems. "And what's this screen for?"

"Well, besides letting me see what you're looking at without the need for streaming, it's my theory that we can use it to send objects from here into the game itself."

Sunset frowned, leaning in to look over Twilight's shoulder at the screens. "Won't that create a conflict in the code? The last thing I want is for a system sweep to find glitches in my inventory."

"Oh, don't worry," Twilight assured her, assisting Sunset as she lay down on the nearby bed and made sure the Amusphere was secure on her head. "I don't intend to use it much. Besides, it's just for experimental purposes. I'm thinking throwing you an apple through it, and you throw it back."

"Fine, but just that, and we do it in the city where there's no monsters around. Last thing we need is Lizardmen running around in Crystal Prep."

"Silly, it's too small for that," Twilight said, then frowned. "I think. Unless the data compresses on the way out."

Sunset rolled her eyes and rested her head on the pillow. "Link start!"

Desert Mirage stumbled and had to rest her hand on a nearby wall. The world around her pulsed and breathed and she had to shake her head before things started to look normal. She blinked and looked down at her hands.

She made sure there was no one around before bringing her hand up to eye level and snapping her fingers together.

Immediately flame burst to life, hovering over her hand.

Mirage stared in awe at the tennis ball-sized fireball. "It-it worked!" she gasped, snapping her hand shut and dispersing the fire. There was no change in her HP gauge, nor any sort of bar that indicated MPs.

She grinned—once more making sure no other gamers were in the area—then concentrated and pulled out Twilight and Sunset as she ran out of the city. She needed a good place to try things out. But where?

She then remembered her conversation with Twilight.

The field was based on ancient abandoned temples, and the monsters were decently leveled.Most players didn't bother with the place, since the low re-spawning quantity and time made it a particularly pointless place to try and level up effectively.

However, it was perfect for her experiment.

Mirage contemplated what gun to use. Sunset already had a fire effect added to it when she had created the weapon, so she decided to try a different spell. Something temporary, perhaps? Maybe worth a single shot. She looked down at her gun and grimaced. "Okay, I'll use a spare, I don't want to risk anything happening to you."

Twilight was also out of the question, it being a rare drop as it was. So, she'd use one of the guns she had acquired from her last fight. Something decent. Like the 5.7mm FN Five Seven she had taken from Surgeon's lieutenant.

Placing it down on the floor, she recalled her lessons from so long ago, trying to figure out what spell to cast, and how. She smirked. "Well, we already have fire covered, don't we?"

Putting both hands on top of the handgun, she concentrated, using them as the focus as if they were her horn, just the same way she had learned to summon fire in the real world. A soft glow enveloped the gun, and Mirage grinned, picking it up.

She made her way slowly through the ruins until she spotted a lizardman skulking around. She sneaked closer to it and hid behind a pillar when it started sniffing the air and tasting it with its tongue.

That was the problem with lizardmen. They had very high perception. But that was not important right now.

Desert Mirage burst from cover just as the lizardman jumped her way. She dodged the first two swipes, then shot it point blank in the head.

As good as the 5.7mm FN Five Seven was, it wouldn't kill the monster in one shot, but that wasn't her objective.

Mirage cursed when the lizardman's head whipped back from the shot and it immediately swiped back at her again. Apparently magic didn't exactly work as she had anticipated here.

She blinked. "Or does it?"

The lizardman hadn't attempted a follow up and had instead stopped completely in a ready stance.

Desert Mirage crouched, ready to react, but nothing happened. After a few seconds of them both staring at each other, she carefully made her way to the monster, which didn't move an inch. She noticed that its scales were slightly lighter than before, however.

Pointing her gun straight at its head, she poked it. The monster swayed and fell back, breaking into pieces before bursting into fragments of data and fading away.

"Wow."

She looked down at the gun in her hand, which suddenly cracked and dispersed into data. Mirage took a couple of steps back, grimacing. "I'm glad I didn't use one of the good ones."

She glanced down at her hands, imagining the magic within. She could feel the power, burning inside of her. She didn't need her guns. She could just destroy her enemies with magic alone. She could be the queen of Gun Gale Online, and no one would be able to defeat her. She'd prove to everyone that—

She stepped back and put her hand to her aching head. "No. No, I can't. Not again."

She could feel her heart rate go up, and the world around her lit up into red warning lights just as a little monitor measuring her heart rate appeared, increasingly getting higher.

A shaky wave of her hand brought the interface menu up, and she quickly sent a message cancelling the raid before logging out.

Sunset sat up in the bed and quickly took off the Amusphere, putting it down on her lap.

"What happened?" Twilight asked worriedly, taking her friend's hands in her own. "Are you okay? I was getting amazing readings but then I saw your heart rate spike and—"

"I'm okay," Sunset interrupted. "I'm okay. I just... I don't think we should do active magic again I'm sorry. Maybe when Princess Twilight visits next time she can do it but I—I can't."

Twilight bit her lip as if she wanted to argue the point, then she leaned forward and hugged Sunset. "I'm sorry. I should have realized... I understand."

Sunset sighed, resting her head on Twilight's shoulder and slowly calming down. When she felt like her heart wasn't trying to rip its way out of her chest, she pulled back and turned, letting her legs dangle from the side of the bed.

"I'm sorry, Twi," she said. "I know the active influence is an important part of your experiment but... I just… don't trust myself with it yet."

Twilight nodded. "It's okay. I'm glad you realized what was happening and pulled out—I don't know if I would have been strong enough to fight the temptation myself."

Sunset nodded dumbly, looking down at her hands, her mind flashing back to the feeling of complete control, the superiority, the power over everything inside Gun Gale Online. She trembled, hugging herself. The feeling was gone now. Just the memory remained, but it was scary and worrying.

"I was able to feel my full magic power in there... like when I was back in Equestria at my best. Even the magic I can do in the real world doesn't feel as... enticing... I don't want it to ruin my experience in GGO."

However she wanted to put it, Desert Mirage had become an important part of herself. A person that had amazing skills and unrealistic abilities... but she was one of many, she excelled without magic or cheating or destroying people. Desert Mirage was catharsis. Sunset Shimmer, with all her magic... in Gun Gale Online?

That was travesty and a violation of her beloved character. One thing was experimenting; it was a completely different matter to turn Mirage into something twisted like that.

"We'll wrap up for today," Twilight said, giving the diary back to Sunset with an understanding smile. "Why don't you get ready for your dinner with the girls?"

"Yeah." Sunset smiled. "Yeah, that's a good idea. I think I could really use their support right now. Maybe we can even talk about what's going on. I'm sure they'll have some good ideas."

Twilight nodded. "I feel the same way with Lemon Zest and the others," she said, smiling encouragingly.

Sunset jumped down from the bed and threw her diary into her backpack. "Thanks, Twilight. I'll see you later."

Sunset sighed and finished the last of her water. The large round table was empty, and her phone rested right in front of her, dark and quiet, as it had been for the last hour. She had been the recipient of many pitying looks and grimaces, with one of the waiters offering her a drink on the house while she waited. They all knew what she knew now.

With a last, dull look at the device, she picked it up and slid it into her purse.

She pushed away from the table and left a decent tip, even if she had just gotten water. She apologized to the waitress as she walked out into the fading light of day and stopped outside the restaurant.

She blinked the tears away and then jolted when someone pushed past her into the restaurant. She stepped away from the doorway and started walking home.

Chapter 04: Confrontation

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 4: Confrontation

The birds chirping were almost as annoying as the sunlight glaring through the curtains. Sunset mumbled something and covered herself with her bedsheets, but the damage was done. After forcing herself to keep her eyes shut for a few minutes, she eventually gave up and rolled herself to a sitting position on the bed.

As she rubbed the sleep off of her eyes, she recalled the events of the previous night and felt a pang in her chest. Glancing down at her plugged phone, she picked it up when she noticed the flashing light that indicated waiting messages.

Sighing, she opened the first of the messages.

Hey Sunset! Where were you? We waited for you all night! I hope everything is okay!

~Pinkie

Sunset stared at her phone, mouth open, before she scrolled down to the next message from Pinkie. It had been sent a few minutes after the first message.

Dashie told us you didn't want to hang out with us anymore, why?

Pressing back, she saw the next message was from Rarity.

Darling, I had no idea you didn't know. I'm so sorry! This was very rude, and I assure you most of us had no clue you had not been warned of the change of venue! ~RB

The messages from Applejack was also telling.

Sunset. I just got your message. I'm sorry about last night. I just heard from Rainbow Dash that she didn't tell you she changed dinner into a movie night. I thought you knew. I don't understand why you don't want to be part of the Rainbooms anymore sugarcube, but that doesn't mean we intentionally ignored you... (1/2)

(2/2) I hope to see you sometime at school, so we can talk about it. Don't worry about the Rainbooms. We'll miss you, but we don't want to force you to hang out with us if that's not what you want.

Sunset grimaced, fighting the growing despair inside of her and the anger at what was clearly sabotage from Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy's text was painfully simple.

Sorry... you don't have to hang out with us if you don't want.

And finally...

You think the Rainbooms are silly? Fine. You don't have to hang out with us. Even if the girls are upset about how I did things, you and I both know you had every intention of walking away from us. Go to Crystal Prep. We don't need you.

Many a student had stopped to greet Sunset Shimmer as she walked into school, but one look at the girl had halted the effort and instead the smiles had turned into looks of dread and concern.

Their gazes followed her as she walked up to the lockers and made a beeline for Rainbow Dash, who was just closing her own locker.

"Rainbow Dash."

The way the words were said made the other teenager jump. She spun around and glared at Sunset. "Oh, it's you."

"What you did last night was low, even for a self-absorbed sorry excuse for a friend such as yourself!" Sunset snapped, making several students stop and stare. Applejack and Rarity shared concerned looks and started to move towards the group of students that had gathered around them.

Rainbow Dash snorted and raised her chin, resting her hands on her hips as she glared right back. "Says the girl that was just that morning telling Twilight she was quitting the band."

Sunset Shimmer narrowed her eyes and clenched her fists. "You snooped in on my conversation? Maybe where you were raised that's not considered inappropriate, but I have it on good authority that most people frown upon that!"

"Well, it's not like I'm the one that put her on speaker! And how else were we going to find out you didn't want to hang out with us? Huh?"

Sunset tilted her head down and closed her eyes. "I did want to hang out with you. I spent an hour alone, in a restaurant waiting for all of you girls to show up so I could tell you how I felt and to figure out a way to make it work. I had my phone right in front of me the whole time. I texted you all to figure out what had happened."

Rainbow Dash managed to look guilty at that and looked away. "Well," she muttered stubbornly. "It's not like it would matter, if you don't care about our group." She snorted and crossed her arms across her chest. "What are you going to do now? Make the girls choose between me and you?"

Sunset's fist slammed into Rainbow's locker door, denting and scorching it. Every student, Rainbow included, gaped and took a step back.

Gritting her teeth and making an obvious effort, the flames around her fist died away and Sunset looked up straight at Rainbow Dash. She didn't hide the tears, nor her anger. "I'm not the same as before!" she shouted, making Rainbow cringe. "I'm not going to destroy your friendships! But we? We are done!"

And with that, she spun around and stormed away through the throngs of students.

Rainbow Dash let out a breath she hadn't realized she had been holding. For all her reformation, Sunset Shimmer was Sunset Shimmer after all. She hadn't lost that presence that intimidated any student or teacher that crossed her path.

Before she knew what was happening, both her arms had been grabbed and she had been dragged into an empty classroom by Applejack and Rarity.

"Alright, Rainbow, you're goin' to explain exactly what the hay is goin' on and Ah'd better be convinced." Applejack growled, closing the door.

"Look, I really just had a very bad conversation wi—"

The door opened and Pinkie dragged Fluttershy, who was barely able to stay standing, inside. "See, Fluttershy? I toldja they'd be here!" she declared, kicking the door closed behind them.

"Well, we're all here now, darling, so please do explain why you told us that we were going to the movies and didn't tell poor Sunset."

"What?!" Pinkie gasped. "But I thought you said that Sunset just didn't want to hang out last night!"

"Oh my, is that why I got a late text message from her asking where we were?"

"She doesn't, okay!" Rainbow Dash shouted, silencing her friends. "She doesn't want to be part of the Rainbooms! I heard her say that to Twilight!"

The others exchanged glances.

"She said she didn't want to go to play with us, okay? She said that we were selfish and we didn't care about her and that all we did was what we wanted to do!"

Rainbow looked from one girl to the other. "She had already decided to walk away from the band. It was just a matter of telling us."

"Ah still think that you should have just let her tell us," Applejack said, looking dubious. "Even if you already knew. We could have dealt with it then."

"Yeah, but don't you think her betrayal sucks?" Rainbow asked. "We have been practicing to win this thing, and with all the effort we've put into it, her ditching us is not fair! I don't know about you, but I hate being betrayed."

The others were quiet, so she pushed.

"She said we didn't need her, and you know what, we don't! We can do the whole thing without her! We did before, and she said it herself, there's no sirens around to beat! We don't need her powers to win!"

Fluttershy tapped her fingertips together. "Maybe my song wasn't good enough?"

Pinkie's hair had lost its puffiness and she sat down. "She said she didn't want to hang out with us? But I want to be her friend!"

"Well, not exactly in those words but—"

"But she's right."

The others looked in shock at Rarity, who had walked to the window and was staring outside. She turned to look at the others.

"Um... what do you mean, Rarity?" Fluttershy asked.

"In this whole conversation, there has been one constant." Rarity walked back to the group and sat across from them. "Almost everyone here has said how they feel." She pointed at Applejack. "How you would understand if she didn't want to be your friend."

She pointed at Pinkie. "How you want to be her friend anyway."

Her finger strayed to Fluttershy, who cringed. "How you feel your song wasn't good enough."

She pointed at Rainbow Dash. "How you feel betrayed."

She put her hand down. "And just a moment ago, I was thinking it would be a shame not having her model my clothes."

Rarity sighed. "Has anyone here thought about what Sunset wants?" She looked at the group, who remained silent. "Since she reformed, Sunset has done everything we like to do. She's hung out with us in our respective domains, spending her time with us doing what we want, and no doubt enjoying herself, but, when did we ever stop to ask her what she wanted to do?"

Fluttershy gasped. "Oh my, but, that wasn't what we ever intended to do!"

Rainbow Dash shifted uncomfortably. "I-it doesn't mean she gets to betray our friendship."

"Rainbow." Rarity put her hand on her friend's shoulder. "I know you feel hurt and you lashed out. I'm not happy with how you involved us too. Even if I know that friendship and loyalty are very important to you. But, because that is so important, you can tell me... if she was going to betray us, would she have waited for an hour in that restaurant for us? And texted asking where we were?"

Rainbow Dash didn't answer.

"If she didn't care... would she had confronted you this morning?"

Rainbow Dash gulped and looked at Rarity and the others, eyes wide. "Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh. What have I done?!"

The shot reverberated in the cavern, and a glowing line of energy cut through Desert Mirage's cheek, but she kept running straight at her opponents.

Red prediction lines lit in her vision, and she rolled forward, dodging most of the bullets, and plowing through the rest. Her HP dropped slowly, and each bullet burned like hay, but by the time her opponents needed to reload she was already in front of them.

The leader of the PKing party found himself staring down the muzzle of a Glock .45 ACP. Sunset's shot straight to the head disintegrated the leader in less than a second, and Desert Mirage grinned manically as she swung Twilight faster than the other remaining player could react and shot them straight in the chest, sending them hurling back to crash against the wall and disintegrating on the way down.

The Surgeon whistled in appreciation from behind cover. "So that's what a Desert Eagle .50 semi sounds like huh? Impressive!" he shouted before leaning out to take another opponent with a point blank shot from his ArmaLite AR17 shotgun. "Heh." He chuckled. "They always think that just because they see you do it, they can get up close and personal too, Mirage."

Sunset blew a hole into an opponent's shoulder, and immediately its custom effect triggered, setting his armor on fire and making him panic. He dropped his weapon and rolled on the floor, making himself completely vulnerable to a double tap courtesy of Twilight and Sunset together.

"And that's that."

The Surgeon shrugged and browsed through the items he had collected. "So wanna tell me what's eating you?"

Mirage snorted. "I just needed to blow off steam."

The Surgeon tilted his head but didn't reply immediately. "Say, if you still have steam left, there's something coming up in a week that might interest you. A competition, to be precise."

Desert Mirage looked at him in surprise. "I thought 'Bullet of Bullets' was still almost a year away."

"It is, but that's not the one I'm talking about. Did you check your email today?" He grinned. "I'll stand guard."

Mirage shook her head, sitting down and leaning against the wall before pulling up her menu. Seeing the official email, she immediately started reading. Her eyes widened. "Is... is this for real? They're going to do a cross-server team battle?"

The Surgeon grinned. "Yes they are. Interested?"

Mirage read the rules, hesitating for a second when she noticed the date coincided with the state fair, but the confrontation from earlier at Canterlot High came back to her and she shook it off. "You know what. Yes. I see the preliminaries start tonight?"

The Surgeon nodded. "They do. I already have some people in mind for our squad."

"It's not your usual gang, is it?" Desert Mirage asked, only half-teasing. "I mean, the Japanese server has very intense players. Do you remember the last BoB?"

"I wouldn't worry too much," The Surgeon replied. "We have some heavy hitters here, and neither of the two winners of the last BoB have been seen since."

Mirage grimaced. "Yeah, I've seen the footage."

"In any case, I have a seven-man team in mind. You and I are in it, of course. I figure you know the Lion well enough to get him in with us."

"If you want to dominate all fronts we'll need a sniper, and that kid from the other day won't make the cut."

Surgeon laughed. "He's been practicing a lot, but no, not him. I'm thinking Nightmare Moon."

Mirage began nodding, but stopped, staring at Surgeon in surprise. "Wait, what did you say his name is?"

"She," Surgeon clarified. "Nightmare Moon. She was inactive for a couple of months, but she's back in the game. A real pro sniper, that one an—why are you laughing?"

"Sorry, sorry." Desert Mirage snorted. "I just can't believe she's, oh man, this is priceless."

Surgeon frowned. "Whatever. I've sent her a message and she's in."

"We still need three more people. Are you thinking two snipers? We could control a lot of ground like that."

"Just leave the team-building to me," Surgeon replied, waving his hand dismissively. "But I'm thinking about maybe another sniper and two grunts."

"I'll leave the details to you, I'm just an infiltrator, not a team leader."

The Surgeon only grinned.

Chapter 05: Planning

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 5: Planning

If there was one thing Desert Mirage particularly approved about the bars in Gun Gale Online—besides the fact that they served alcoholic drinks that at least tasted alcoholic, even if they couldn't really get you drunk—was the decidedly more heavy-metal music they chose as a background.

She enjoyed all sorts of music, but she had really needed something decidedly less vanilla than her last few months had provided. She snorted. Not that that would be a problem anymore. She had been having a surprisingly good time since she had arrived, and she didn't want to think too much on what had transpired that morning. Instead, she took her attention back to the video she had streamed onto a tablet and grimaced.

"This gal is blocking bullets with a sword like a freaking Jedi, Surgeon." Mirage said, drawing the attention of the four others sitting at the table back to her. "Bullets. Not bright lasers. Bullets. And she's doing it behind her back while doing a back-flip."

Surgeon rolled his eyes and leaned forward, taking the tablet off of her hands and turning it off. "I already checked, neither this 'Kirito' nor her partner/enemy 'Sinon' registered in any team this year."

There was a collective sigh of relief, but one of the others raised his hand in a placating gesture. "That doesn't mean we're off the hook."

"Heavy Collar is right," The Lion grumbled, his large frame hulking over the leaner forms of the others. "Why, don't you tell us about it."

"I'd rather wait for a few more of our team members to arrive," The Surgeon said. "This involves us all, after all, and I have additional information that will decide our chances of winning. I did send Mirage the information I bought to get the team together."

"So we're waiting on Vice Pr—Nightmare Moon, then," Desert Mirage spoke up, taking back her tablet and summoning a player summary. "She was gone from the game for a few months, but she's finally back. She left roughly at the time I started playing, which is why I hadn't heard from her."

Mirage's eyebrow rose. "She was the second place in last year's Bullet of Bullets?"

The Surgeon grinned. "Yes she was."

Mirage whistled and continued reading. "Her primary weapon is an ultralight material KSVK 12.7 monster drop. Her secondary weapon is a Kagemitsue G4 photon sword with a deep-blue blade. She wears a black-ops style marine armor called 'Midnight Coat' which could be a monster drop of the same name as well, or simply a very expensive, custom-made armor she named that because of her moon obsession."

She tapped the table with her free hand. "I guess that sword makes sense. If someone closes up on her, she can't use that sniper rifle of hers at that distance." She glanced at The Surgeon. "Tell me she doesn't slice bullets from the air too."

The Surgeon grinned. "If she did she wouldn't have lost last year."

Mirage huffed. "Let's see. The Lion is here. We already know your weapons and style. Surgeon... you bought info about yourself?"

"Hey, a guy needs to know when to change weapons to throw people off."

"Right." Mirage swiped to the next person. "Let's see, Heavy Collar." She looked up at the man, who was wearing a classic leather cowboy outfit. "It says here you're a demolitions expert. Doesn't list a primary weapon, but you seem to use rocket launchers from time to time."

"Yep, but the information is incorrect," Heavy Collar said, leaning back on his chair. "I'm less of a demolition expert and more of a trapping expert. Explosives just tend to get rid of enemies quicker. For now I'm comfortable with my FN Five Seven and a cute teammate like you."

The Lion leaned back. "I can't say I'm not honored, Mr. Collar but—"

"Not you!" Heavy Collar slammed his fist on the table. "Her!"

The Lion grinned and Heavy Collar crossed his arms in annoyance, looking away. "Jerk."

Mirage couldn't help herself and started laughing. After a moment, the others grinned and joined in, returning to their drinks only after they had calmed down enough.

"And there she is," The Surgeon spoke up, looking at the far entrance of the bar. The elevator doors closed behind Nightmare Moon like wings announcing the end of an era, or at least that's the impression Mirage got with just how everyone in the bar had gone quiet, except for a few rookies that were quickly shushed.

She was taller than Mirage, although not as tall as the Lion, and like her file had said, she was wearing a black ops armor. The lower half of her face was covered with a deep blue bandanna, and the helmet covered most of her hair, except for a long blue ponytail that flowed out of it. A half moon decal on her right shoulder armor was scratched with bullet and flame marks, and she wore a black cloak that fit under the shoulder guards and flowed around her like living darkness.

Mirage shook her head. "I'll say this about her," she muttered loud enough for the table to hear. "She makes enough of a dramatic entrance for me to start thinking poetically. And that says something."

Nightmare Moon looked around and quickly spotted them, making her way through the bar without any apparent care of the looks the several players in there were giving her. When she sat down at their table, even the whispers hushed before they began again, with more than one information broker giving them measuring looks.

"Glad you could join us," The Surgeon said, nodding at Nightmare Moon.

"It's the least I could do, after my long absence."

The Surgeon laughed. "Well, let me do a quick introduction. The big guy is The Lion, he's our minigun user. The cowboy next to him is Heavy Collar, the gal in the mantle is Desert Mirage, infiltrator extraordinaire."

Nightmare Moon nodded at them in turn. "I studied the profiles you sent me. It seems like a very solid team, but we are still missing two members." She summoned a menu and ordered a drink.

The Surgeon nodded. "I'm working on it. I've contacted Coyote to be part of our team."

Mirage raised an eyebrow, calling up the summary on her tablet. "Oh I remember him. The guy with the AK-12. He seemed competent enough. Who's our seventh?"

"Still looking," Surgeon replied, tracing the edge of his glass with a finger. "I thought about a heavy gun user, but that would render us basically immobile."

"You should just get another automatic rifle user," Desert Mirage said, leaning back on her chair and looking up at the slowly rotating fan on the ceiling above them. "I had thought about another sniper, but with the addition of Collar here, we can really dominate a battlefield in game with two fast players." She looked at the others. "We'd have everything we'd need."

"Sounds good to me," The Surgeon said. "And I've got just the man to do it."

"What about our opposition from across the sea?" Nightmare Moon asked. "I have no doubt our team will represent the American server, but do we have any information about the other team?"

The surgeon smirked. "If you can call it a team." He glanced at the Lion. "They also have a Lion of their own: Lion King Richie. Heavy gun user. The squad leader is one of the best players of either server: Yamikaze. He might be faster than you, Mirage." He winked at her. "They have an automatic rifle user of some success named Dyne, Kakouton who also uses an assault rifle, and Shishigane, a heavy-armor berserker type with a light minigun. Their sniper is a gal calling herself 'Musketeer X' and they have a mostly unknown player called Ginrou, who uses a sub-machine gun in their roster"

Nightmare Moon hummed. "It doesn't sound like a very cohesive unit."

"That's because it isn't," Surgeon said. "And that's where we have the most advantage. All of us are used to working in teams." He pulled up a video of a shoot out. "If you look at this, you can tell that they're all really working separately."

"They're still pretty tough," Lion acknowledged.

"Yes, but they're relying one hundred percent on their personal abilities," Collar pointed out. "Look, Yamikaze, wasn't it? This guy is really fast as his name would imply, but he's letting those guys follow him so that he can shoot them. If it was Mirage instead, I'd probably help her set up a trap. She wouldn't have to risk a gunfight if she's already getting them to follow."

Nightmare Moon nodded. "And look at their "Lion" sitting there shooting all over the place without back-up. A single shot would take him out."

"They are all experienced fighters," the Surgeon pointed out. "But we can take them out with the right teamwork. Are you all with me?"

The group nodded and he smiled. "Excellent. Let me get a hold of Coyote and see if my other option is available. Our first battle will be in two hours, I suggest you get some rest and prepare."

Finishing their drinks, the group went their separate ways, except for Nightmare Moon, who held Desert Mirage back.

"Um, what is it?" Mirage asked.

"This." Nightmare Moon said, summoning a menu and pushing a few buttons.

A ping appeared on Mirage's screen, and she opened it. It took her a moment to recognize what it was.

"Is this homework?"

"You left early." Nightmare Moon shrugged, and leaned down to stare Mirage in the eyes. "And if that's not done by tomorrow, your detention will last forever."

Dear Twilight,

This day started badly... I really felt things would collapse around me, that I was doomed to just be alone again. But then, something happened.

I feel like I've made new friends today.

I've known a some of them for a few months, but I never really sat down to talk to all of them before and... it was fun. There was a lot of banter, a lot of bragging and plenty of planning a contest we want to win. But I haven't laughed like that in a while, and it felt so good!

It was... honest. A really honest, heart-felt laugh. I think the last time I had one of those was on your first visit, before you had to leave. We talked about learning from Princess Celestia and we were comparing notes, remember?

It was like that, again... and guess what? One of my new friends is none other than Vice Principal Luna! It's just... so different, and so interesting to find out that she and I have such things in common.

We talked tactics and teamwork and so many things related to this event! It was great to be with people that get me.

I'm glad I met with all of them earlier today. I'm meeting them again, soon, but I wanted to let you know that I learned an important lesson about friendship today:

Sometimes you try too hard to fit in. Sometimes it's worth it, and sometimes not... but there's always a place for you, where you fit and where friendships can bloom.

~Sunset Shimmer.

"Come on girls," Rainbow Dash whispered. "She just turned off the lights! She might be going to bed!"

"Rainbow Dash," Applejack pulled her hand free of her friend's grasp. "It's six pm. No one goes to sleep that early."

"But she ordered pizza half an hour ago! Maybe she ate too much and is in a food coma!" Rainbow Dash insisted.

"Well, darling, if she just turned off the light I imagine she just wants to relax."

"And we can't let her!" Pinkie Pie bounced up the stairs. "There's no time for relaxing when your friends are here!"

"Um... maybe that's a problem?" Fluttershy spoke up.

"Well, if she wants to relax that's fine," Rainbow Dash said, "But I just want to apologize first, alright? Then we can let her be."

"Don't you think that's a bit pushy, darling?" Rarity raised an eyebrow.

"Maybe." Rainbow Dash bobbed her head. "But, if we don't do it now, when?"

"Ah still feel tomorrow would've been better. Let Sunset simmer down a little, ya know?"

"Tee hee! Sunset Simmer!"

"Thanks Pinkie Pie, I think we all thought about it when AJ said it." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. "Well, here we are."

She knocked on the door.

They waited patiently, but there was no reply, so she knocked again. "Sunset? It's Rainbow Dash. I'm sorry about the last few days, can we talk?"

There was no answer still and the girls exchanged looks.

"Look, I get that you're still upset, I understand," Rainbow Dash called. "But... we really appreciate your friendship, and we'd like to fix things. Can you, y'know, let us in?"

"Rainbow Dash, maybe we should go," Fluttershy said,

"No. Come on, Sunset! We know you're in there! Your motorcycle is downstairs and you ordered pizza a little earlier!"

"Come on, sugarcube, she ain't answering."

"But it's not fair! Sunset! Don't you care at all?!" Her voice rose and she banged on the door again until one of the neighbors looked out her window.

"If you kids don't stop that banging, I'm calling the police!"

"Oh, we're so very sorry, Ma'am," Rarity said quickly, looping her arm around Rainbow Dash's. "Won't happen again. We were just leaving."

The woman grumbled, but pulled back in.

The girls walked in silence down to the street, until they had crossed it. Rainbow Dash looked over at Sunset's apartment. "She didn't come out. She didn't even look out the window or shout back at us through the door."

"Maybe it's too soon, sugarcube."

"Or maybe she doesn't care anymore," Rainbow Dash said, bitterly kicking a small rock onto the road. She turned around and started walking away. "Whatever. I guess our friendship really is done."

The others shared helpless looks, until with a collective sigh, they followed in Rainbow's wake.

For all their confidence in friendship, it really felt like they had lost this time.

Chapter 06: Friends

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 6: Friends

The radio crackled.

"This is Nightmare Moon. I have the enemy sniper in my sight. They haven't spotted me yet. They're hiding at the top of the pyramid, facing east, between two broken-off pieces of rock. It's good cover, but I have a good angle."

"Roger that," Surgeon replied. "Mirage?"

"One scout, heading northwest, towards Coyote's position. He's being followed by about a hundred meters distance by two automatic rifles. I can sneak behind them."

"I can draw their fire and let you do your thing," Coyote's reply came through. "Pero no se me distraiga, nena. I want my sandwich to be a celebratory-wich."

"As if."

"Good, I'll leave them to you two," Surgeon spoke up. "Lion, I see a heavy gun user setting up a base on the north east side of the ruins. That's the leader. The two grunts with him are again automatic rifle users. What the hay are these people playing at?"

"Nothing serious, which is good for us," Heavy Collar replied on the radio. "If you three can get them to focus on you, I can sneak behind them and blow them to pieces."

"I can't see them from here," Nightmare Moon informed them. "So I cannot back you up. It'll be you guys on your own."

"Provided Nightmare Moon shoots the sniper first, we'll be fine," Thunderbird, their last addition, confirmed on the radio. "My guess is that they're betting we'll concentrate all fire on them, allowing their sniper to pick us up."

"Let's do this quick, guys. There's a football game I don't want to miss," the Lion's voice crackled into their radios.

"Right," Surgeon said. "We're in position, confirm everyone."

"Ready."

"Listo y hambriento."

"Ready."

They could hear Surgeon's smile. "Bring down the night, Moon."

"With pleasure."

The shot was heard clear through the ancient pyramid valley, and it wasn't a second later that Coyote dashed right between two stone pillars, in plain view of the scout, who shouted for his comrades to join him. The three took cover behind some collapsed rocks, shooting mercilessly in Coyote's direction, where they could see him cowering.

This left their backs uncovered, and Desert Mirage wasted no time in running in. The one that heard her was the scout, who turned in surprise, his gun raising too slowly. Twilight's shot got him in the throat, just as Sunset blew the rifleman on the right's head off.

The other rifleman spun around, ready to shoot her, but he suddenly twitched and collapsed, revealing a smirking Coyote standing behind him, his smile wide. "Seems like nobody told him: you don't turn your back on el Coyote."

They heard the battle coming from the other side of the field until the ground shook with an explosion strong enough to send flames up in the air. It didn't take a second for the message declaring them the winners to appear hovering above the battlefield.

Congratulations!

Winner: Team Surgeon

"We need a new name," Mirage grumbled.

Sunset opened her eyes and blinked. The room was pretty dark. She took off the Amusphere and pushed herself up, stretching and glancing at the time. Eight Pm. Plenty of time to finish homework.

She had to chuckle at the way Vice Principal Luna had delivered her class' work that morning. Nothing like finding out one of your authority figures was also an avid gamer than her confirming it by reminding you of your earthly duties.

Sunset stood up, turning the light and her monitor. She needed to get started, but the fight from earlier had left her a bit thirsty, and she needed something better than some soda. But first, a shower.

She entered the bathroom and turned the shower on, stripping and quickly jumping in so that she wouldn't get too cold. As the warm water cascaded around her, she felt herself relax. Her thoughts went to the battle and how easy a time they had had.

It wouldn't be like that, with several groups already taking notes of how others were defeated. Right before leaving the game, she had been hounded by two information brokers, each wanting to know about her technique, and her plans and what strategies the squad had planned.

She shook her head. What kind of moron would tell them that kind of thing?

Once Sunset felt clean enough and had rinsed the shampoo off of her hair, she stepped out, drying up and slipping into her PJ's. and wrapping a towel around her hair as she made her way to the kitchen.

She grimaced at the pizza leftovers. She was hungry, but that was way too recent and she had little motivation to cook anything, so, drink it was. And thankfully, she had plenty of beer.

She had just twisted the cap off when someone knocked on her door.

Curious, she checked who it was and blinked in surprise, before opening the door. "Vice Principal?"

Luna grinned and lifted her hand, showing a bag with several containers inside. "Chinese?"

Sunset shook her head with a smile and stepped back, letting her in. "What's this about?"

"Celebratory dinner, after our first team battle. I felt it was warranted."

Sunset chuckled. "Sure thing, let's go to the dining area."

Luna nodded, then stared at the beer in Sunset's hand. "Aren't you a little young to be drinking beer, Sunset?"

Sunset rolled her eyes. "I happen to be a few years older than your average highschool student, even if I don't appear like I am."

"Oh?" Luna asked. "Then what's your real age?"

"Old enough to drink in Equestria, and just about right for this country."

Luna eyeballed her. "You don't look it."

"I was a pony, remember? I had pretty much graduated before coming here."

Luna laughed. "Fair enough, Sunset."

"Would you like a beer as well?"

Luna raised an eyebrow. "Depends on what it is."

"Stout, can't stomach lagers."

Luna grinned. "Good girl. I'll take one. I'll also set up dinner while you get it."

Sunset couldn't stop laughing. In fact, she had to put down her chopsticks or risk them flying out of her hands.

Luna, however, did not look amused. "It is certainly good to see my honorless defeat brings you so much joy."

"I-I'm sorry," Sunset gasped. "I just didn't expect that it was the Surgeon that took you out in the last Bullet of Bullets."

"He cheated!"

"You're the one that tried to cut a plasma grenade with your lightsaber," Sunset pointed out.

Luna coughed and took a drink. "Yes, well, he should have given up when I cut his shotgun in half."

Sunset's grin didn't fade while she returned to her food. "You're a riot, Luna."

"What happened to 'Vice Principal'?"

"Faded away with a beer. Don't worry, it will return tomorrow at school."

Luna grinned and clinked her bottle with Sunset's. "As well it should! Friendships and formalities don't mix!"

"Hear, hear!" Sunset giggled. She took a sip and smiled at Luna. "I'm glad you think of it that way, Luna."

"Why wouldn't I?" Luna asked after a moment of contemplating the bottle in her hand.

Sunset shrugged, leaning back on her chair. "I dunno. I was afraid you wouldn't see it that way, I guess. This afternoon, after we met in the game and talked and had such a good time, I immediately wrote Princess Twilight and told her you were my new friend." She smiled uncomfortably at Luna's look. "I just... thought later that I had jumped the gun, or that we would be only friends in-game, you know?"

Luna nodded. "I understand what you're saying, Sunset. And the truth is, I thought about leaving it at that but... well, I saw what happened this morning."

Sunset's smile went away.

"And I worried... both as an educator and an acquaintance," Luna continued, reaching over and placing a comforting hand on Sunset's for a quick squeeze before letting go. "But, when we met in-game... I also felt a connection that I never expected to feel with you. It wasn't hard to figure out Desert Mirage was you... naming your guns 'Sunset' and 'Twilight'," she said with a smile. "But when I sat down with you and the others, I wasn't Luna. I was Nightmare Moon, and Nightmare Moon saw you as an adult, a fellow gunslinger and a potential teammate.

"It opened my eyes, in a way, to see you there being you without being who you were the last two years, or who you became the last one. I realized right there that I liked you. Your quirks, and personality, the way you looked at things and how you acted."

She took a deep drink, finishing off her bottle and putting it on the table. "I realize this is a bit pretentious of me, but... I also thought: This is someone I would like to be friends with." She smiled at Sunset. "And after the battle, I wanted to celebrate with you that we were a part of this team with the tragic name."

Sunset snorted and smiled.

"So I came here to see if I could be your friend in real life too."

Sunset nodded. "But what about you being the Vice Principal and me being a student?"

"We can be friends," Luna said, shrugging. "Just as long as we both remember that my duties to the school cannot be ignored, and I can't turn a blind eye to what happens there."

Sunset nodded and gulped. "About that, I don't know if I can be friends with Rainbow Dash and—"

"You don't have to," Luna interrupted, drawing a surprised look from Sunset. "I'm not saying that you shouldn't, but I'm not going to force you to be their friend just so that I can have an easier time at school dealing with students. Life isn't that easy, and high school... well, most of my students are teenagers. They're just figuring out what they want, or changing their plans, or dealing with hormones or discovering talents or deciding what college to go to, if they want to go to one at all. It's easier than the big world outside, for sure, and there's plenty of unnecessary drama... but it's all part of growing up, and as long as they keep it mostly civilized..."

"I get it," Sunset sighed.

"That said, you still need to not rampage like a Fire Pokemon at school." Luna gave her a warning glare, waiting until Sunset had chuckled, nodded and started taking another sip of her beer. "Even if it's super-effective at shutting up Rainbow Dash."

She almost wasn't fast enough to dodge Sunset's spit-take.

Twilight's lab at Crystal Prep was a forbidden zone for most people, including staff and the cleaning crew for several reasons she had cited and defended in a fifty four-page essay. The door had a warning sign and was usually locked.

So it was a big surprise for Mr. Custodian—the janitor in charge—when he noticed the lights in the lab were on. After all, he had personally locked the doors after Twilight Sparkle had left, so he knew she wasn't in there.

His hand hovered over the doorknob. Should he risk it? Twilight had had an extensive talk with all cleaning staff about how bad things could get if they stepped in and messed around with her experiments. Words like, 'explosions' and 'implosions' as well as 'trans-dimensional torque realignment' had been used extensively, and he had no intention of finding out what that even meant. If it even meant anything.

Just as his hand touched the doorknob, the lights turned off and everything went silent. Mr. Custodian gulped and released the doorknob. It was eerily quiet. As if something was expecting him to breathe too loudly before doing something unspeakable to him.

He felt his body shaking as he took a step back, then another. It wasn't worth it. Nope. Not worth it.

He quickly gathered his things and walked away to the other side of the school.

Dear Princess Twilight,

I know, another letter, so quickly! And you haven't had time to respond to the previous one.

I hope things are doing well over in Equestria. I'm writing to tell you that my suspicions were correct. I do have a new friend in Luna. I swear, Twilight, I never expected it.

This is the best thing that could have happened. We have so much in common! I hope to talk to you soon and tell you more, but for now, I must finish my homework.

You've been there.

You know how it is.

Your friend,

~Sunset Shimmer

Applejack waited next to the entrance to the school, early that morning. She waved a hand when she saw Sunset walking her way from the parking lot, pushing herself off the wall to stand straight as her friend approached.

"Well howdy, stranger," she greeted with a slightly forced smile. "How you doin' today?"

Sunset looked around, but she saw no sign of Rainbow Dash, she walked into the school, side by side with Applejack. "I'm doing okay, AJ, yourself?"

"Alright, I guess," Applejack responded awkwardly. "Uh, listen, before we get into class... we went to see you at your place last night, at around six." She scratched the back of her head. "Ah get you're upset with Dash but, couldn't you have at least opened the door?"

Sunset took a deep breath. "I'm sorry, I was busy doing something and I couldn't hear you, AJ, that's why I didn't answer but..." she stopped and faced the other girl, grimacing. "If I'm perfectly honest, I don't want anything to do with her."

"She's our friend," Applejack said. "It'll make things difficult and—"

Sunset placed a hand on her shoulder and shook her head. "AJ, I appreciate what you're trying to do. You, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie? You're all friends in my book, but Rainbow Dash crossed a line with me."

"Look, sugarcube, I realize we all could've been better friends, hay, Rarity pointed out how selfish we've been by only doing what we wanted and not finding out about you, but you can't let a friendship die just like that."

Sunset closed her eyes. "Until last night... I would have done anything to hear that. And I am still glad to know that you girls are thinking of me, but it would also be selfish of me to force you into this kind of thing. I want to be your friend, but I can't be Rainbow Dash's friend. And you girls are best friends..." she sighed. "I'll be happy to hang out with you as individuals, but as a group, or with Rainbow Dash involved, I can't. Not right now. Please understand that."

Applejack sighed and nodded turning to go. "Ah don't like it. Ah wish you'd change your mind. Ah know you don't have that many friends here besides us... if you start feelin' lonely... remember that we care. Even Dashie."

Sunset sighed and headed towards her own class. This was probably going to be a long day.

Chapter 07: Anxiety

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 7: Anxiety

Sunset had expected Rarity to do something or say something at the end of her math class, so she had stood by the door while the other students walked out. But, Rarity had surprised her by smiling gently and giving Sunset's arm a light and quick squeeze before walking out of the room.

Sunset didn't know why, but for some reason, she had to fight the impulse to run out and hug Rarity for that simple act.

Lunch however, was going to be tricky. As she stood in line to get her food, she couldn't help but glance at her usual table, where Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were just being joined by Applejack.

Thankfully, both Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash were facing away from the line, so with some luck, she should be able to go sit down somewhere else. She looked at the food options, grimacing. Veggies here were not the same as in Equestria. Arguably, her diet had changed to omnivorous from the mostly-vegetarian food of her foalhood easily enough, but as much as she liked meat now, it would never live up to just how tasty Equestrian vegetables were in comparison to the sorry excuse earth had for them. It was like night and day.

She turned to face forward and had to fight the urge to scream when she found herself face to face with the smiling visage of Pinkie Pie.

"Hi, Sunny!"

"Pinkie Pie!" She growled, shaking her head. "How many times have I told you not to surprise me when I have food in my tray?"

"One hundred and thirty eight!" Pinkie sang out as she moved to stand next to Sunset.

"And almost once daily for six months isn't quite enough for you?"

"Nope!" Pinkie responded, bouncing along Sunset as she moved further up in line. "I love surprising people! Especially my friends!"

Sunset shook her head, paying for her meal and starting to walk away from the line.

Pinkie bounced next to her. "Hey, where are you going? Our table's that way!"

Sunset stopped and looked at Pinkie. "Pinkie, I know you want us all to be happy—"

Pinkie nodded really fast.

"But I don't want to sit at your table today," Sunset finished, making Pinkie stop dead and gasp.

"What? B-but..."

"It's just not comfortable right now, with what happened."

"Oh, don't be silly! Rainbow Dash forgives you! All you need to do is forgive her and we can all go back to being best buddies!"

"We're not!" Sunset snapped, then grimaced at the sudden silence and looks from the other students. Cringing she dragged Pinkie to a table, where she placed tray before turning to look at the other girl. "Look, we're friends Pinkie, but you need to back off a little. I've been through a few recent epiphanies an—"

"Ooh! What are those?! Are they like cooking lessons?! Why don't you come over to our table and you can tell us aaaall about those Tiffanies of yours!"

"Pinkie..."

"Sunset Shimmer," Luna's voice cut through, making both teens turn to look at the Vice Principal, who was looking at them. "Ah, good. I see you got your lunch, perhaps you can eat it while you help me with that project?"

"Ooh~ a project?" Pinkie grinned. "What type of project? Can I help? I'm very good at projects!"

Luna shook her head. "That's very kind of you, Miss Pie, but this is not party related. If it becomes party related, we will certainly give you a call."

"Bu—"

"Come 'ere, Pinkie," Applejack interrupted, looping her arm around Pinkie Pie's. "Ah think Vice Principal Luna means that she just needs Sunset's help, for now."

"Bu—"

Whatever Applejack responded, Sunset didn't hear. Luna had gently guided her out of the mess hall, and walked with her in silence to her office, opening the door and letting Sunset walk in, lunch tray and all.

Luna quietly pulled out a collapsible table and set it out for Sunset to lay her tray on. It was then that she noticed that the plastic had melted slightly at her touch.

Luna didn't say anything about it, walking around behind her desk and pulling out something from a small fridge. She returned with a sub sandwich which she set across Sunset's meal, and sat down, motioning for Sunset to do the same. "Better?" she finally asked.

Letting out a long sigh, Sunset almost felt deflated, but eventually nodded. "I'm sorry, thank you for saving me, Vice Principal."

Luna shook her head, a smile crossing her face. "That's what friends are for, and call me Luna for now, I'm on break too." She popped open her soda and took a sip. "Do you want to talk about it? We can eat and talk, I assure you it's not a lost art."

Sunset chuckled, opening her bottle of lime soda and looking down at the hotdog and fries. "I guess that's true. I knew that Pinkie could be very insistent but, wow, she wouldn't let me be."

Luna's eyes narrowed. "That kind of harassment—" she cut off when Sunset shook her head.

"It's not malicious," Sunset said in a slightly defeated tone. "She wasn't trying to make me angry, just the opposite. She wants me to be happy, and to be friends with everyone." She chuckled. "I guess that's what makes it worse if I get angry. It's snapping at someone that just wants the best she can imagine for you."

Luna nodded, watching Sunset eat while she pondered her words. "While this is true, and it is indeed a very noble wish of Pinkie's, it doesn't necessarily mean it truly is the best for you."

Sunset saluted Luna with her soda.

"Perhaps a discussion with Pinkie is in order," Luna mulled after a few good bites into her subway. "It would be appropriate to bring this to her attention, lest she destroy or endanger future friendships through sheer enthusiasm."

"Good luck with that one, she can be... exuberant."

Luna chuckled, but didn't argue the point. The pair ate in companionable silence until it was time for Sunset to return to class.

"Thank you, Luna," Sunset said, picking up her tray. "I really appreciate you going out of your way to help me get some space."

Luna chuckled, also rising and picking up the wrap. "I'm sorry we cannot do this more often, Sunset. It would draw some attention."

Sunset nodded. "See you tonight?"

Luna grinned. "Wouldn't miss it."

When the bell rang, Sunset was the first out of the door, earning herself a glare from the teacher. She winced, but did not want to wait. She walked through the halls as quickly as she could without breaking into a run, dodging emerging students, and keeping her ears open for any approaching Rainboom.

She heard Pinkie by the time she had reached the doors, and once she was outside the building, she broke into a run around it to the parking lot. Faster than ever before, she had her helmet on, and was revving her motorcycle. She was able to catch a glimpse of pink on the periphery of her vision, but soon the school was left behind as she merged into traffic and sped away.

Sunset concentrated on the road, each passing car seemingly taking away some of the worries of being caught by her friends. She grit her teeth when she realized just how much she dreaded their contact, but what was she to do?

By the time she arrived at Crystal Prep, she had at least gotten rid of the fear of Pinkie jumping onto the road from a passing car in a desperate attempt to force her friendship. Sunset shook her head and walked quickly into to building, up the stairs, down the hallway and onto the lab.

Twilight Sparkle was tweaking something on her computer, but she looked up with a smile when Sunset walked in. "Hi, Sunset! How did your battle last night go?"

Sunset chuckled. "Why don't you tell me?" She grinned and pointed at the computer, where The Gun Gale Gazette was displayed in all its glory.

Twilight cleared her throat. "Well, it's one thing to read it, but any scientist can tell you that you can't beat empirical evidence, and you, Sunset are empirical enough for me to get a better understanding of it."

"Even if everything I tell you is by definition anecdotal?"

Twilight gave her a flat look. "You know what I mean. Shoot."

"I will."

"I mean, tell me!"

Sunset grinned. "It went fantastic. We completely decimated the enemy."

Twilight nodded. "Technically "decimate" is the wrong word to use here, but I'm willing to ignore that attempt at bringing such a base semantic change into a scientific environment given the celebratory nature of my feelings right now. So, have you seen this?" she dragged Sunset to the computer, which was listing the winners of the previous night.

"Huh, I haven't had a chance to check on them," Sunset admitted.

"What?" Twilight turned to look at her in surprise, hand motioning to the screen. "But, why not? It didn't end that late."

Sunset shook her head, not answering as she scrolled down. Then she stopped, staring. "You've got to be kidding me."

"What?" Twilight asked, looking at the screen. "What is it?"

"Look at the team build for this squad," Sunset said, then brought up the roster for her own. "Now look at mine."

"Hm, team Daybreak." It took a second for Twilight to notice the problem. "Wow. It's basically the same team as yours, just... different names and players. Same skillset, even similar names and styles."

"Different player level of skill too, and obviously not the same equipment exactly but generally close enough." She massaged her brow. "This could be complicated."

"At least you don't have to fight them tonight," Twilight said, bringing up the roster. She smirked. "I don't think you'll have to worry. They're going against team X-COM."

"Huh, I thought those guys were defunct," Sunset said, glancing at the spreadsheet. "Butcher and Wallflower are the only two originals there. Don't really know the rest. Would you look at that. No Avalon."

Twilight punched her in the shoulder. "Har. Har. You guys are running against The Kings, do you know them?"

"Not really, I think I've seen a couple of names pop up in the charts before, but they might be mostly PvMs..."

"Will that make it easier for your team, you think?" Twilight asked.

"I'm... not sure. On the one hoof, they could be easier to deal with, since the strategies are different... but, at the same time, if they're used to working together and hunting high-level Mobs, they are probably really tight and know how to take advantage of each other's abilities to maximize damage and obtain bonuses."

Twilight giggled.

"What?" Sunset asked, raising an eyebrow.

"You said hoof!" Twilight giggled again. "It's adorable!"

"I did not!"

"Did too!"

Grumbling, Sunset looked away. "Well, whatever, my point still stands."

"Well, we'll figure out what happens when it happens, I guess," Twilight said, watching Sunset jump onto the bed in the lab. "How about we do a book-immersion again for now? I have modified the receptors to take a lot less magic, and we still have a couple of hours before your squad fight."

Sunset closed her eyes.

Fire. Power. Control. Destroy. Burn them.

She opened them. "I don't know... I just..."

"Sunset," Twilight pleaded. "Please, I promise that the flow will be a lot less than before."

Sunset sighed. "It has to be a trickle, Twilight. I know part of this is to help me control my magic, but... that thing channeled my full unicorn magic last time, and freezing things is the least of what I could do."

Twilight nodded. "I understand, and I promise you that it won't happen. Try some magic as soon as you can, but not in combat. I'll be monitoring you, so you can tell me if it's too much for you to be comfortable, and I'll lower the input, how does that sound?"

Sunset pondered for a moment before nodding. "I need to learn to better control my magic... I melted something today when I got upset."

Twilight blinked. "Oh."

Sunset took a deep breath. "Let's do this."

Earlier...

"I see her! I see her!" Pinkie Pie squealed the moment she looked out of the classroom door. Before Fluttershy could stop her, she was already halfway down to the exit, but she was suddenly stopped by Vice Principal Luna, who had somehow managed to step in front of Pinkie.

"Hey!"

Luna raised an eyebrow, and Pinkie flinched. "Sorry, Vice Principal." Pinkie tried to go around her, but Luna raised her hand, stopping her.

"You shouldn't follow Sunset, Pinkie," Luna said, making the teen stop and look at her in surprise.

"Why not? All I want is for her to be our friend again!"

Luna sighed, noticing that several students were giving the pair of them looks. "Come, Pinkie Pie, and you too, Fluttershy."

The pair followed Luna into the classroom they had vacated and Luna motioned for them to sit down. "Listen to me, Pinkie," she said, drawing the bubbly girl's attention to her. "The reason I don't want you to chase her is because she doesn't want to be chased. She practically ran out of the school for that reason."

"B-but, she's my friend!" Pinkie stammered, hair flattening down. "Why doesn't she want to hang out with us?"

Luna sighed. "She does, but she wants to do it in her own time, at her own rhythm," she explained, placing a hand on Pinkie's shoulder. "Right now she's dealing with a lot of changes when it comes to friendship, and it's not something you should push."

"But, how can I let her know that I love partying with her?" Pinkie asked Luna, but this time it was Fluttershy who answered.

"I think she knows," Fluttershy said quietly. She cringed a little when the other two looked at her, but an encouraging nod from Luna gave her strength to speak. "If she really didn't like doing things with us, she wouldn't have, even when she was trying her best to fit in."

"I guess," Pinkie grumbled."But how can someone not like parties? Why would they run away from me if they're my friends?"

"Because some people need a different rhythm than your own," Luna explained. "Sunset knows that you're trying to cheer her up and for her to be happy with everyone else, but that's not what Sunset is looking for. That's what you want."

"Oh." Pinkie Pie looked down, until Luna lifted her chin up.

"She needs time, but she's still your friend, and you know that, right?"

Pinkie nodded, albeit a little sadly.

"Then that's all you need," Luna said. "Give her some space, and let her come to terms with where she wants to be. She considers you a friend already, so I really doubt that it will be an issue for her to hang out with you again."

Pinkie nodded as Luna stepped back.

"Good, now you two can go."

"Um," Fluttershy spoke up. "Don't you need to talk to me as well?"

Luna smiled at the gentle girl. "You listened, and that's all I needed, you can tell your friends as well to take it slow, right?"

Fluttershy nodded hesitantly. "I'll try."

Luna watched the pair go and sighed, sitting down on the desk.

"I see you're taking a lot of interest in this situation, sister," a voice said from the doorway.

Luna eyed her the interloper. "Perhaps, but I see a lot of myself in Sunset's situation."

Celestia smiled. "Oh? Because you were also at one point a unicorn filly of great power?"

Luna shook her head. "Hilarious, Celestia. But no. What I mean is her struggles with friendship and identity."

Celestia's grin dimmed a bit. "I see. Do you want me to—"

"No, thank you, sister." Luna stood up and smiled. "I believe I have this under control."

Celestia chuckled. "Well, I'm glad you're taking her under your wing," she said, embracing her sister. "She's in good hands."

Luna rested her forehead on her sister's shoulder. "I hope so."

Author's Note

Squad encounters next chapter!

Chapter 08: Jungle

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 8: Jungle

"So, Vice Principal Luna said to wait!"

Applejack strummed her guitar. "Well, makes sense to me."

"Oh, who cares, anyway?" Rainbow Dash spoke up, guitar in hand. "Like, she couldn't even be bothered to open the door when we went over to apologize."

"Rainbow Dash." Applejack glanced at her friend with a frown. "Ah told ya that Sunset explained she was just listenin' to her headphones when we arrived."

"And you believed her?" Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. "When was the last time you saw Sunset Shimmer wearing headphones? She's not Vinyl Scratch, Applejack."

"Rainbow, dear, I do believe you're making a big thing out of a little incident," Rarity said, patting Rainbow's back.

"No, I'm not," Rainbow Dash said. "I just decided I don't care. If she thinks we're too lame to hang out with, I don't see why I have to put up with it."

"Um, Rainbow Dash?" Fluttershy approached slowly. "I don't think—"

"Listen, we're here to practice, right?" Rainbow Dash interrupted, looking at the others. "Sunset already ignored me and Pinkie Pie, so I say we ignore her and do what we came to do. We're going to win the competition at the fair, so that's what we should concentrate on, not on Sunset."

When the others just exchanged glances but didn't argue, Rainbow Dash took her place. "Come on girls, it's time to practice."

The sphere of light grew and grew, until it was the size of Desert Mirage. She grunted and suddenly it expanded in size. "This is as big as I can make it right now," she said to the air. She could feel the exhilarating rush of magic through her veins. It was almost like taking a deep breath after holding it for far too long.

Having her magic taken away had been the worst thing about becoming human. And after getting it back, not being able to control what little she held onto was almost just as bad, except for the visceral knowledge that she was complete now that she had it back.

"Cut it by half, again."

She maintained the magic output as the sphere slowly became smaller and smaller. When it was her size, she bit her lip, gauging the power level. "Cut it in half again."

"Again."

When it was the size of a beachball, she nodded. "That works. This is roughly what I have right now, power-wise, in the real world."

Knowing that Twilight could hear her, even if she couldn't really respond, she spoke up again, "I'll go adventure around a little bit."

And with that, she was off.

This time, she headed out to one of the jungle areas of the game, useful minor spells already flashing in her mind. As she ran, her footsteps faded altogether, then her footprints disappeared. She grinned as wind enveloped her form and helped her run even faster than ever before. She ran past several monsters without them even being able to react to her presence.

She forgot about everything. She could have shot them, but she was having too much fun already.

Magic. She was using magic again, and there was no fear of overpowering, or harming anyone.

Her HUD lit up with a text message from the Surgeon reminding her about the battle later on, and announcing a meeting before it. She replied, assuring him she'd be there.

It was then that she ran off the cliff.

The door to the lab opened, startling Twilight. "Oh, hey Lemon Zest!"

"Hey," the other girl replied, taking off her headphones and closing the door behind her. She walked around the single bed in the center of the room, giving Sunset an odd look, before walking up to Twilight and planting a kiss on her forehead.

"Lemon!" Twilight gasped, blushing. "What if we're seen?"

"She's under. She can't see us, and Spike is doing his job at keeping the girls distracted perfectly." Lemon Zest rolled her eyes. "Besides," she said, grinning, "otherwise I'd get jealous of another girl spending time with mine." She blinked. "She can't, right? See us, that is."

Twilight chuckled. "No, she can't." She reached down and turned off Lemon's still-playing mp3-player.

"This is as big as I can make it right now," a voice came from the speakers at that moment. "Cut it by half, again."

"Huh," Lemon Zest followed Twilight back to the computer, where she sat down and slowly turned down a dial. "That was Sunset? She sounded... different. Older?"

"Yep, that's her, and the reason she sounds older is that you can use a voice modulator when you create your character. It can do a lot of stuff, make you sound older, younger, deeper, higher." Twilight replied, pointing at one of the monitors that showed a young woman in armor and mantle, arms held forth and hands extended. A huge sphere of light had formed in front of her.

"I thought she was playing Gun Gale Online," Lemon Zest muttered, looking around for a chair before dragging one to sit next to Twilight. "Isn't that like, guns only, no magic?"

She watched as the sphere of light in the monitor became smaller, followed by Sunset's modified voice: "Cut it in half again."

"So, why is it," she pointed at the screen. "That Sunset is creating magical...things in there?"

"Again."

"Basically, it's because of that," Twilight pointed and Lemon Zest followed the direction of her finger.

"A book inside of a home-made microwave?"

"It's not a microwave!" Twilight glared at Lemon Zest, who only grinned in response.

"That works. This is roughly what I have right now, power-wise, in the real world. I'll go adventure around a little bit."

Lemon Zest gasped. "She can do that in this world?!"

Twilight meeped. "Please don't tell anyone!"

"Relax, Sparkles, you can trust me," Lemon Zest hugged the blushing girl. "But that's some impressive stuff right there. I thought she and the others could only pony up."

"Well, the other Rainbooms are not like Sunset," Twilight explained, turning to quickly type at the keyboard.

They could both see Sunset's character running incredibly quickly, but most of the space in the monitor was covered with windows analyzing and displaying several fluctuations. "This screen records and analyses Desert Mirage and most of the visual information we get," she explained, then pointed to a screen above it that was scrolling several numbers. "That analyses and calculates the output of power she's displaying in-game, and..." she tapped another screen. "This one records the inter-dimensional fluctuations and magic output in relation to Sunset's demands of additional power."

"I guess those computer monitors over her bed keep track of her vitals and neurological processes?" Lemon looked at the Amusphere. "My guess is you track most of that through the Amusphere itself, right?

Twilight gave the other girl a hug. "Yes! That's correct!"

Lemon laughed. "Well, Crystal Prep doesn't send slouches to the Friendship Games." She looked around the room in barely contained awe. "I have to admit, Sparkles, this is quite the setup. Where did you get the idea to do this?"

Twilight sighed. "Well, for one it was Sunset... she discovered that while she couldn't use her magic using a normal Amusphere, she could... feel pain when shot."

Lemon Zest blinked, eyes wide. "Wait, what?! But... that's impossible, right?"

Twilight shook her head. "No, but it is almost impossible unless you mess around with the programming of the Amusphere, which she didn't. When she found out others couldn't feel any pain when shot, she came to ask me if I had any idea what was going on. I discovered that her unique physiology had a lot to do with that... in other words, her magical senses were seeping into her connection to GGO and that's why she feels some pain when bullets hit or graze her."

"And she still goes in?" Lemon Zest whistled. "That takes guts."

Twilight sighed. "She has reasons."

Lemon Zest gave her a look, but didn't comment, instead turning to look at a screen. "Oh, look," she said just as Sunset's vitals started spiking on the monitors. "She's jumped off a cliff."

"...and we don't know if more magic means that the pain will increase, or worse, start affecting your real body!" Twilight poked Sunset's arm. "Don't ever do that again!"

"Ow. I know, I know," Sunset sighed. "That'll teach me to text while moving at high speeds."

Lemon Zest snickered from where she was sitting.

Twilight rolled her eyes. "Whatever. We'll try this again tomorrow. At least now we have a reasonable power input for you to use in-game without losing too much control."

"Fine, fine," Sunset growled, pushing Twilight's hand away. "Anyway, I should get going. Did you get any interesting readings?"

Twilight nodded. "Yes, I did. But I'm going to have to ask Prof. Sombra for another computer. I want to have it doing a dedicated analysis without it being connected to the magical artifact."

"Well, I'll leave you to that. And with Lemon Zest," she grinned at Twilight's blush. "Aww. That's cute."

"Watch it, Sunny," Lemon half-threatened.

"My lips are sealed," Sunset replied with a smile. "See you later girls!"

Desert Mirage stepped into the bar and her ears immediately picked up the tune of Misery's Crown. Oddly appropriate to her situation and on the tame side for the locale. She scanned the crowd, quickly spotting the far table where The Surgeon, Coyote and Thunderbird were already seated.

She made her way through the bar, nodding at the occasional "Good luck tonight!" from a few of the bar regulars. She sat down next to Thunderbird and ordered a drink. "I take it you guys have seen the other registered teams that passed to the next round?"

"Hard to miss the copycats, the resurrected squad, and the rockabillies," Thunderbird muttered.

"It will certainly be a learning experience," Surgeon said, waving to the Lion and Nightmare Moon, who had just arrived. "Two teams with completely different tactics than our own, and one that has the potential to act just like we do."

The Lion took a seat to him, while Nightmare Moon sat next to Mirage, giving her a smile and her hand a squeeze in greeting.

"Solo falta Heavy Collar," Coyote spoke up. "Where is he?"

"He's performing a mission for me," Surgeon said. "He'll be here soon, I just got a message from him."

Nightmare Moon raised an eyebrow. "What sort of mission?"

"Recon." Surgeon grinned when Nightmare Moon tilted her head. "You'll see. Although his mission brings up something I'd like to try."

"And what's that?" Mirage asked.

"I was thinking we should clean up level 45 of the Endless Tunnel."

Coyote choked on his drink, and Thunderbird gave Surgeon a look. "Are you nuts? They literally just passed level 44! We have no idea what's down there! Not to mention, it took them six squads to do it!"

Surgeon's grin didn't disappear. "Yes, but imagine what message that sends to everyone."

Mirage rubbed her temples. "You. You want just our squad alone to take down a level boss in the Endless Tunnel. We're talking at least a level 85. That place is crazy."

Thunderbird nodded quickly to her words. "Dude, they're saying there's 120 levels to that thing, and that the monsters will go over level 100 by level 50. It's designed for multi-squad attacks. Hell, the last few levels are probably going to be server-size affairs!"

"Even more important for us to make our mark now, then, isn't it?" The Surgeon gave each of them a look. "I don't intend to just win the international competition, which is big enough, I want our team to be the stuff of legends. Even X-COM had the support of several other squadrons when it took down the special event."

"So you want to show up everyone?" Mirage asked, still quite unable to believe his audacity.

"I say we go for it," Nightmare Moon said, making the others look at her in surprise, but the Lion nodded as well.

"We don't have anything to lose by trying," Lion pointed out. "And it would be an excellent exercise on teamwork, even if we fail."

This calmed the others down, and another hand-squeeze and reassuring smile from NMM made Mirage roll her eyes and smile. "Fine, I'm in."

After a moment glancing at the group, Thunderbird threw his hands in the air in exasperation. "Gah! Okay! Why not?"

Coyote could be heard muttering something in Spanish, but he finally sighed and nodded. "Who wants to live forever, right?"

"I do!" Heavy Collar announced, marching up to the group. "But then again, I'm cool that way. You know how else I'm cool?" he asked.

"I'm sure you'll tell us," Mirage muttered.

"Yes. I'm cool..." he produced a tablet out of his pocket. "Because I have the recording of an actual battle from the Kings."

The Surgeon smiled. "Let's get this planning session started then..."

"Wait!" Mirage slammed her fist on the table. "There is one thing we need to fix before we continue."

"Oh? And what's that?"

"The squad name."

"Well now, this is unfair," Heavy Collar declared from the bushes.

"Tell me about it," Mirage muttered.

They were at the edge of a dense jungle, just where it ended and a wide span of sand, bookended by two large lakes that expanded until the edge of the field met.

The sand bridge was relatively long, and met the half-standing gates of a huge wall that allowed entrance to a small hill with a stone staircase, that contained at the very top, a large temple in the middle, flanked by two towers.

"This is not going to be easy at all."

"We'd better report back to Surgeon," Mirage muttered.

"I'll go after you, I want to set up some traps in case those guys are idiots and abandon their position."

Mirage nodded, pulling her mantle's hood on and running deeper into the jungle. She found the others gathered around Surgeon, who had drawn a crude map on the floor.

"We didn't see any of them move out, but it would be stupid of them to give up their advantage," Mirage said, sitting down and sighing. "That place is a fortress. We can't go around since the edges of the wall reach to both ends of the field."

The others nodded. "I imagine their two snipers will be up in the towers," Nightmare Moon said. "It makes the most sense, since they can cover just about all of the area from there."

"They're also crumbled enough at the top to provide plenty of cover, so even if you took one down, the other would have you made, and then shoot you without a prediction line showing up." Mirage added, and Nightmare Moon nodded in reply.

"And let's not forget they have an explosives specialist with them," Coyote pointed out. "And two minigun users."

Surgeon nodded. "Given that there's little chance of us climbing the walls, I imagine those three will somehow be covering the middle ground. When we start moving over that stretch of land, they can take us down in that small area, and if they don't, their snipers will. It's a natural choke point, made worse by solid cover. We'd be decimated in seconds if we attempted a straight attack."

"What about their gunslingers? They have a dual wielding and a submachine gun." Lion asked, pulling out his tablet and going over the notes.

"If they're smart about it, patrols or support for the minigun users," Surgeon said after a moment of thought. "If they're not... they'll have them static somewhere. Maybe protecting the snipers, given their PvM experience." He glared at the map, before turning on the radio. "Heavy Collar, are you still at the edge of the jungle?"

"I was on my way back to you, why?" the reply crackled through.

"Go back to the jungle's edge... but follow it north to the edge of the map, keep an eye on the wall. Let me know if there are any holes in it."

He glanced at Thunderbird. "If you don't mind going south, please do the same."

Thunderbird nodded and set out running.

Heavy Collar's voice came from the radio. "There's a few holes on the wall past the lake, boss."

"Not here," Thunderbird's report came in a minute later. "But I see a large drain that goes through cleanly."

Surgeon nodded. "Excellent."

"What are you thinking?" Nightmare Moon asked.

Letting out a long sigh, Surgeon shook his head. "We don't have many options, but this might be down to Coyote, Mirage and you."

The three looked at each other.

Surgeon grimaced. "The rest of us run a high risk of getting killed on the first wave, but there's few other options to do this." He glanced up at a huge, nearby tree. "This guy looks like it goes over the canopy."

He glanced around. "There's another one nearby to the west." He raised his radio. "Collar, Thunderbird, do you guys see any very large trees where you are?"

"There's one right behind me," Collar responded. "Not quite at the edge of the jungle, but really close. Why."

Surgeon grinned. "Oh, just an idea."

"I've found one as well," Thunderbird said.

"Good, mark them on your maps and come here. I have a plan." He turned to look at the others. "Now, let's see what we have in our inventories, shall we?"

Chapter 09: Ride

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 9: Ride

Mirage headed south of the map while the others worked. Once she was alone, almost where the edge of the jungle met with the edge of the map, she leaned against a trunk and sighed. She opened a personal channel to Nightmare Moon.

"Hey, Moon."

"Mirage," came the cool reply.

"Are you up there now?"

"Yes, I have finished my preparations... Surgeon's plan is a bit crazy, but it might just work."

"Yeah, I hope so," Mirage grumbled. "Make sure you're fast enough, Moon."

"I will. You take care of yourself as well, Mirage."

"Will do."

The place was quiet for a minute or two. "Mirage?"

"Yes, Moon?"

"If we win... would you like some Thai food?"

Mirage blinked, then grinned. "My place?"

"If you wish."

"Are you going to get me some Thai Iced Tea?"

"Is there any other way of enjoying Thai cuisine?"

Mirage chuckled, grinning at the distant temple. "Now there's no way I can lose."

"Alright everyone, I'm in place," Surgeon's voice said over the radio. "Get ready, Moon."

"I'm ready," Nightmare Moon reported immediately.

"Roger. Lion Team, are you ready?"

"Why is it 'Lion Team', why not Collar team?"

"I'll take that as a yes. Mirage? Coyote?"

"Ready."

"Ready."

They could all hear Surgeon take a deep breath. "I'll see you all on the other side."

Among the trees, Surgeon lifted his belt buckle up, poked his rifle out of the branches and tried to catch the sunlight with it.

Nightmare Moon concentrated, finger on the trigger, breaths steady. Any moment now.

The shot rang across the field, and she immediately saw Surgeon's HP indicator flash and go to zero, but his sacrifice hadn't been in vain. Her return shot blew part of the wall of the southern tower, but she managed to see the 'Dead' marker appear just before she jumped.

The tree's trunk splintered where she had been a mere second before, and before she knew it, she was speeding down the durasteel cable Collar had secured from her position to the nearest safe spot.

She let go at the last moment, dropping a few feet and rolling as soon as she hit the ground. She ran as fast as she could to her next position, quickly jumping up from the lowest branches to the ones above. Once she was there, she turned on her radio. "I'm at my second position!" She brought her rifle up, just as a prediction line went over her last location. She grinned.

Mirage let out the breath she had been holding since the exchange had happened the moment she heard Nightmare Moon's voice on the radio. When the second shot by Nightmare Moon was fired, she heard Lion's team trading fire with what was—if she went with the sound of it—most likely the two minigun users.

That was her cue. Putting away most of her stuff into her item storage to keep her weapons dry, she ran out of the foliage and dived into the small lake, swimming as fast as she could under water. Up ahead, she could see the drain that Thunderbird had discovered earlier.

It didn't take her long to reach the drain, and she slowly made her way through, keeping as low as possible. Emerging on the other side, she stuck to the wall and followed it until she could peek around the corner at the other side. She could see—not too far away—an armored woman shooting a minigun, presumably at her allies.

Her radio turned on. "Collar is down!" Thunderbird reported. "You guys better make this quick!"

"Dammit." Mirage muttered, going into her storage and equipping her armor and guns again. "I'm in position, I can see one of them, I think it's Valentine. No sign of patrols."

"Coyote here," the radio responded. "I'm on the other side as well. I can see Panda King. Her armor is really thick, I'm going to need you guys to keep her distracted so I can toss a grenade under her!"

"Any sign of Longshot?" Nightmare Moon asked.

"None," Mirage and Coyote echoed.

"Curses. She can really turn this around. Be careful! I have already moved to my next position, I'll keep an eye out for her."

A loud explosion drew the attention of Valentine northwards, and Mirage took off, Sunset and Twilight at the ready, but something on the periphery of her vision made her stop and jump back. "I've been spotted!" She shouted, as two shots whizzed past her to blow chunks of rock from the wall. "Storm King, coming at me from the southernmost tower!"

"I got him." Nightmare Moon's voice sounded calm.

"Hurry up!" Coyote hollered. "I'm holed up here!"

"If she tries to rush you, we'll take her out!" Lion called.

"Chinga!" Coyote shouted. "I don't think she needs to move!"

Mirage rolled under the twin prediction lines of her opponent, and shot back, cursing under her breath as Storm King simply backpedaled out of the way. But just as a smug smirk crossed his face, a single shot got him through the armor and he crumpled to the ground like a sack of potatoes, followed by a red marker saying "dead".

"Thanks, Moon!" She shouted, dismissing Twilight, and throwing a plasma grenade at Valentine.

"I'll always have your back, Mirage," Moon's voice responded, making Desert Mirage grin. She dove into the shallow water just as the plasma grenade blew Valentine apart.

"Valentine is down!" Coyote called.

"Moving in!" Thunderbird responded.

"Wait!" They could hear the Lion cursing as he ran after Thunderbird. "We don't know where Longshot is!"

Mirage had barely made it uphill and turned to look down at the entrance to the temple grounds. She saw the pair take cover on either side of the doors, but at that moment, the whole center area went up in flames.

"No mames!" Coyote's voice was almost completely drowned.

Her HUD's interface marked Thunderbird as dead, and the Lion's HP was close to zero.

'I have to take Longshot down now!

She ran out of cover, quickly making out the figure of the rocket-launcher kneeling down and aiming at the door again.

"Graaah!" Mirage shouted, both Twilight and Sunset shooting simultaneously. The bullets left glowing red marks on Longshot's arms, and she dropped her rocket-launcher.

Mirage put in a burst of speed, just as Longshot reached behind her back to pull out her shotgun. As she was bringing down, Mirage kicked the barrel back up, making her opponent waste the first shot, and the time she had processed what was happening, Sunset had blown a perfect hole through Longshot's head.

At the same time, she saw Coyote's HP go down to zero, and a line of bullets shot through her arm a second later.

"Aah!" She rolled, but her arm burned. "Dammit! Dammit it hurts!" she gasped.

She looked up to see the last of their opponents, Cringe, running at her with his SMG already blazing bullets.

He didn't get far before his body was riddled by shots courtesy of the Lion, and his head was torn off by one of Nightmare's shots.

Mirage gingerly put her weapons away and collapsed, staring at the sky as the announcement went up:

Congratulations!

Winner: Team Surgeon

Sunset opened her eyes and winced.

She slowly sat up, taking off the Amusphere before rubbing her arm where the 'bullets' had hit. She grimaced when she noticed she had bruises. "Just great," she muttered. "Wait until Twilight hears about this, I'll never hear the end of it."

Getting up, she stretched before stumbling over to her closet. She needed to change into something presentable for Luna's arrival. Preferably something that covered her arms. After a bit of browsing, she settled for a sweatshirt.

She made herself busy, making sure the kitchen was all cleaned up and setting up the table for dinner, but that didn't take too long either.

She was severely tempted to jump into the GGO News website and check what the Gazette had to say about their match, but since the next match wouldn't take place for a couple of days anyway, and she had other things to worry about, she forced herself away from the computer.

She glanced at her backpack and sighed. There was one thing she could do while Luna arrived.

She dug out her diary and pondered her words for a few moments before writing.

Dear Princess Twilight,

I feel like I should feel guilty, somehow. You see, I haven't been hanging out with the Rainbooms as much as before. It's not that I don't like them, ~~although Rainbow Dash~~ although I've had some problems.

I've felt for several months now that I don't have much—if anything—in common with them. They're lovely girls, and I regret so much what I did to them in the past. But, being meek and submissive and doing everything they want without them asking what I want... that's not me. I want their forgiveness, and what I did to them is not something that will go away that easily, even months after the fact, but my guilt is forcing me to be somepony I'm not.

I'd rather be honest and be myself and work to earn forgiveness. I'd rather be kind without losing my strength of character. I'd rather be generous but still do things I like to do. I want to share laughter with people that make me happy too. And I want to be loyal to my friends... even if we don't hang out every day, or even if they have other things to do or like things I don't.

I don't think I have to give up everything of what made me me to be friends with someone, right?

I could use your help, Twilight, I'm so confused. I want to follow your advice, heed your teachings, but, how much should I sacrifice for friendship, if it feels completely one-sided?

On the other hoof, when I'm with Luna, I can be myself. I can talk Death Metal (it's a type of music with a tragic name, don't freak out) with her and she knows my bands. I just discovered she has a motorcycle as well, although hers is more of a sport bike, unlike my café racer—which I know doesn't make sense to you, but there's a big difference.

I talk to my other friends about things besides the contest we're participating on. They get my interests, and that competitive streak I felt I had almost lost until the past Friendship Games. I hang out with Science Twilight all the time, and she has the most adorable relationship with Lemon Zest, who actually takes her headphones off when she's around her.

We talk about music, we talk about raves and the last Metallica concert that we never got to go to. I talk science and magic with Twilight.

~~Until I started hanging out with all of them I never realized how alone I still felt in some ways.~~

Is it wrong that the way my friendship with the Rainbooms didn't go as fantastic as I had hoped? I'm somehow transitioning to these other friends, some of which I only know through a computer, and ~~I don't want to~~ I just don't know.

I don't know if I gave up too easily.

I don't think I did. I did everything they wanted to do, Twilight, I promise! I hope you're not too disappointed in me.

~Sunset Shimmer.

"Red curry, green curry, both chicken," Luna listed as she took out containers, "Tom Kha Gai, lots of rice, and I brought Pla Mug Pad Ga Prow, although I know not if you like squid."

Sunset shrugged, a smile plastered on her face as she greedily took in the sight of all that food. "Never tried it, but I definitely will!"

"It's spicy," Luna warned with a chuckle. "Oh, and of course Thai Tea. Iced, and plenty of it," she added, bringing out a large container.

"Luna, you're an angel. Heaven-sent. The moon's brilliance doesn't do honor to your awesomeness."

"If you keep that up, Sunset, I might blush," Luna retorted with a smile. "Now, let's eat."

They ate mostly in silence, broken by the occasional sounds of food enjoyment. True to Luna's warning, the squid dish was spicy, but Sunset loved the texture of it, and the contrast in flavor of the squid and basil.

Soon, both of them leaned back, sipping their tea and sighing in content.

"Best celebratory dinner yet," Sunset chuckled, patting her belly. "That was great. Ugh, but now I'm too warm..." she rolled her eyes and took off her sweatshirt, fanning her face a little. "You weren't kidding that the Pla Mug thingy was spicy." She chuckled, but stopped when she heard Luna gasp.

Sunset blinked, but then her eyes widened when she noticed where Luna was looking. She cursed under her breath, suddenly very aware of the bruises in her arm.

"Sunset!" Luna had almost stood up in shock. "What happened?"

Sunset cringed. "Um, do you promise not to freak out more?"

"But—"

"Seriously, Luna, I will explain if you calm down and promise to remain calm."

Luna visibly struggled and snapped her mouth shut, drawing in a breath before she very obviously forced herself to sit down and nod curtly.

"You know how I am originally a unicorn, right?"

A cautious nod.

"Well, my nervous system has developed differently than a human's, even when I am turned into one. As you know, the Amusphere interrupts the brain-signals to the body and interprets sensory information so what when you go into any VRMMORPG, you can talk, move your body and control all of your actions as if it were a real body. When I'm in the game, my senses are all transferred there, with the additional baggage of my magical sensibility. That interacts in a different way with the Amusphere.

"Under normal circumstances, the automatic settings of the MMO prevent any level of pain reaching the human brain... that's... never been the case for me." Sunset grimaced at Luna's gasp. "Every time I get shot I feel it. Usually it's just a passing burning sensation, but yesterday, before the game, I used an experimental interface to allow my magic more access into the game... and although at the time it didn't seem to have done anything, well..." she trailed off, not knowing what to say.

Luna stood up, walked around the table and sat down on the chair next to Sunset. She carefully traced her fingers down Sunset's arm. "Oh, Sunset."

"I-I'm—" Sunset bit her lip, eyes watering. "I don't want to stop playing, Luna. Not right now, please?" She took hold of Luna's hand, holding it against her arm and looked up at her friend. "I'm just starting to make sense of things, of who I want to be and it's all thanks to GGO and-and you and Surgeon and the others."

Luna drew her into a hug. "It's okay Sunset. Do you think this is a one time thing? Or are your senses going to be like this from now on?"

Sunset sniffed, embracing Luna as well. "I don't know," she admitted, giving her friend a squeeze and letting go, so she was only holding Luna's hands and could look at her. "I'm usually very good at not getting hit," she laughed and hiccuped. "It might have been just residual energy from earlier."

Luna nodded. "If... if it gets dangerous, you promise to tell me?"

Sunset nodded, "I promise. I'll make sure to get Twilight's help in getting this under control."

"Then I will not stop you." Luna sighed, squeezing Sunset's hands. "However, if I do notice that you are suffering from real pain in the game, I might ask you to unplug, is that understood?" She looked at Sunset straight in the eye. "I'm your friend, Sunset, right here, right now in the real world too, and I promise you that won't change at all."

Sunset threw her arms around Luna and nodded onto her shoulder. "Thank you."

"Anytime... do you want to go for a drive? I brought my bike."

Sunset rubbed away the stray tears. "Sure, why not? Let me get changed into something better for riding."

Chapter 11: Epiphanies

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 11: Epiphanies

Rainbow Dash stared at the poster she had set up on the ceiling above her bed. It was an enlarged picture of the team for the Friendship Games. They were all there: Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Fluttershy, herself and Sunset Shimmer.

She let out a breath, looking at the smiles, remembering the good times... and the bad times all the way back to the previous year. Ignoring the others for months due to a single event that had turned out to be a set up. If she had just talked to Applejack back then they would have figured out something was wrong.

She shuddered and focused on Sunset. The cause of the problems, and arguably, the Rainboom—no, ex-Rainboom—she had felt closest to. She was strong. Fast. A good soccer player if the couple of times they had played together was any indication, and... well, Rainbow had thought she was loyal.

"How was I supposed to know that she didn't want to do something, or that she'd rather do something else?" she muttered. "I get it, she wants to do stuff. We all do, but does she have to do it when we're so close to the fair? Did she have to abandon us now?"

"Ugh!" She grabbed her pillow and groaned into it. Finally willing to admit that she was unable to sleep, she rolled off the bed and sat at her desk, turning on the light and pulling out a photo album.

She snorted, looking at the rainbow and lightning theme on the cover. It had been Rarity's idea, back when they had forgiven Sunset and started hanging out with her. So, Rarity had made them and personalized each for everyone in the group. Each cover was different, with their logos on it, or as Sunset called them "Cutie Marks". Not that it mattered now, but the idea had been nice.

Rarity and Fluttershy would print out pictures to add to it from time to time for everyone else since none of the others were really inclined to print out stuff from their phones, and it was up to them to update their own book, and that morning they had given her the batch from the last two weeks.

Stretching, Rainbow set to work, looking at the pictures and sorting them from "Pure Awesome" to "Cool", to "Meh."

She sighed when she looked at the first picture. It was Sunset Shimmer and herself, back-to-back doing guitar riffs. Her hand hesitated before putting it down on the "Awesome" pile, but then, she frowned and moved it to "Cool".

Shaking her head, Rainbow started browsing through the rest of the pictures and sorting them out into their piles. More often than not, an awesome picture would be downgraded to cool because Sunset was in it and it was slowly starting to frustrate her. Finally, she got to the last one, which was another group picture: a close up of the gang laughing. Rainbow Dash was about to put it in the cool pile when she noticed something.

Frowning, she set it aside, then started going through the the pictures again, separating the ones where she saw it again and again, and putting them on top of the new pile. Then she opened her photo album and started browsing through it, pulling out picture after picture where she found the same thing.

Finally, she reached the first pictures of the album. Grabbing the large pile of pictures, she leaned back on the chair and slowly browsed them again, starting from the oldest to the newest, her frown slowly lessening until she couldn't look at them anymore.

Putting down the pictures, she rested her face in her hands and sighed, before dragging them down and looking at the clock. It was already one thirty am, she needed to sleep. Shaking her head, she grabbed an envelope and put the pictures inside, before turning the light off and walking up to her bed.

She wished it was Saturday, so she could sleep in.

The clock hit 6 AM and the mp3 player/alarm clock started blaring a random song from her vast musical selection.

Luna's eyes opened slowly as the intro to the song played and she stared at the ceiling, while her mind processed the lyrics. "Huh," she said.

It had been some time since she had been woken up by Meatloaf of all things.

It was a good song, however, so she decided to leave it on as she prepared for the day and more importantly, for tonight when Sunset would return. She hummed and sang the lyrics as she made her way to the bathroom and Luna found herself nodding to the music as she brushed her teeth. She imagined herself and Sunset racing through the streets, to the musical backgound, having dinner, settling down at Sunset's apartment, holding hands as they used their Amuspheres to to FullDive into GGO and—

She stopped brushing her teeth and stared at herself in the mirror. She slowly finished cleaning up, then met her reflection's eyes once again.

"I was having a musical fantasy about Sunset Shimmer to an 80s song." She sighed. And rubbed her temple. "And not just any song. 'Out of the frying pan, and into the fire.' of all things. How cheesy can it get?"

Somehow admitting it to herself did make her feel a little better. She glared at the mp3 player and shook her hairbrush at it in mock anger. "Curse you, Meatloaf!"

Shaking her head, she forced musical fantasies out of her mind and finished getting ready. If she wanted to grab breakfast with Celestia cooking, she had to be ready by six thirty at the latest, otherwise "Miss Early Mornings" would have already wrapped up and Luna would have to make her own.

Soon enough, she was ready and it took her a few seconds to reach the kitchen, where her sister was already serving two sets pancakes. "I heard you singing," Celestia said. "So I figured you'd be on time this morning."

Luna grumbled a bit, pouring some coffee for herself and sipping it before seating down.

"Another Sunset musical number?"

Luna had almost spit out her coffee, and she could feel a bit had gone up her nose, but she forced herself to swallow before glaring at her sister.

"Oh, my." Celestia grinned and shook her head in mock pity. "You've got it bad."

"What happened to my supportive older sister from last night?" Luna grumbled half-heartedly.

"She decided to remind her younger sister that she's a grown woman and that she needs to make up her mind about what to do and say to Sunset Shimmer." Celestia declared, raising an eyebrow. "Since I am fully aware that you have already considered the professional implications, not to mention the social ones, I am left to conclude that your hesitation to either end it or pursue it is either moral, or stupid."

"That is hardly fair."

Celestia shrugged, sipping her coffee. "Luna, you're not acting like yourself. You need to get yourself together, for your own good and for Sunset's."

Luna snorted, but took a deep, calming breath. "It was just unexpected, Tia. That is all."

Celestia smiled.

"And I haven't any idea of how she feels. You know I have few friends, hence why I have hesitated to take the next step."

"You're not a teenager anymore, Luna," Celestia reminded her, although Luna knew she could see that she was a lot calmer. "And neither is Sunset, we both know it. She's mature enough to make an honest, informed choice without allowing too much drama into it. And I know both of you will remain friends regardless of the end result."

Luna nodded, sipping her coffee as well, while her mind settled into a course of action. Maybe tonight would be the best time, depending on how things had gone for Sunset in Equestria.

Applejack was leaning on the wall next to the doors to the music room and listening to the guitar being played, when Rarity and Fluttershy arrived. She waved them over before they stepped in.

"Ah think somethin's wrong with Dashie," she said.

"Why? What's wrong?" Pinkie Pie asked, making the three jump.

"Pinkie Pie! How many times do we need to tell you not to startle people?" Rarity demanded, placing a hand on her chest.

"But I like surprises!"

"Anyway," Applejack interrupted. "To answer the question, y'all can hear that, right?"

The guitar in the room kept playing and they nodded.

"Oooh! I like it!" Pinkie exclaimed, grinning. "Did Dashie make that up? It sounds so cool!"

Applejack facepalmed. "Really, Pinkie Pie?"

Pinkie Pie blinked in confusion. "What?"

"Well," Rarity spoke up, clearing her throat. "I really don't see what's wrong with Rainbow Dash playing 'Sweet Child of Mine', darling."

"It's um, a very nice song." Fluttershy nodded.

"She's played it three times back to back," Applejack said. "Now, Ah know that Dashie likes her guitar riffs, but not that much."

The others exchanged glances. "Oh." Was all Fluttershy had to offer into the silence.

"Wait," Pinkie Pie raised a hand. "She's stopped."

They waited for a second before...

"Is that 'Stairway to Heaven'?"

"Okay then," Applejack took a deep breath and tilted her hat down resolutely. "Ah'm goin' in."

They pushed the door open and found Rainbow Dash sitting on the floor, guitar propped against her knees thumbing away at it.

"Okay, Rainbow Dash," Applejack took the guitar. "Tell us what's buggin' you."

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, but instead of answering, passed Applejack an envelope, which she opened, fishing out a lot of pictures.

Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie looked over Applejack's shoulders as she browsed through them.

"Pictures of Sunset?" Rarity asked.

"Do you have a crush on her?!" Pinkie gasped. "Is this a High School Drama story?"

"What? No!" Rainbow Dash resisted the urge to kick her friend. "Where did you get that idea?!"

"Well, you were playing the guitar while moping over her pictures," Fluttershy offered. "I mean, I-I guess it doesn't mean you like her necessarily but..."

"Ah get that you're upset over your recent fight, Dashie," Applejack said, glancing at her friend. "But goin' all mopey is really not you."

"And certainly not the way to solve things between the two of you," Rarity added.

"You mean if it can be solved."

"Oh, Dashie!" Pinke hugged her. "It's just a fight! I'm sur—"

"It's not just a fight!" Rainbow Dash pushed Pinkie away. "Look at the pictures!"

"Ooh! That's the time we were at the Sugarcube Corner two weeks ago! I remember it because I had just made those amazing little cupcakes with the Rainboom logo on them!"

"And that's the time we went to the farm and had ourselves a camp out," Applejack said.

"And that time I got us all to dress up in my 'Hotel Chic' designs!"

"And the time we went to the Zoo and got to hang out with the farm animals!" Fluttershy added.

"Yeah, I don't get why they make it such a big deal at the Zoo of all places," Applejack muttered.

"Well, Rainbow Dash if this is to remind us that we haven't got any pictures doing something that Sunset wanted—"

"No, no, no... you're missing the point." Rainbow Dash stood up and gave each of them the picture they had talked about. "What do all of those pictures have in common?"

"Oh! Oh! Me!" Pinke bounced up and down, hand up in the air. "We're all in them!"

"Yes, Pinkie, and?"

"Well, it's not a 'group' picture per se," Rarity said after a moment. "We're all there, but only a pair of us is in the front, and everyone else is behind doing other stuff. If I recall correctly it was one of those fast reaction pictures Pinkie and you like to take."

Rainbow Dash nodded, motioning with her hands to go on.

"Uh..." Applejack tilted her head, trying to figure out what Rainbow Dash was getting at, but a sudden gasp drew all their attention to its source.

Fluttershy had her hand covering her mouth and was shaking a little.

"You see it too?" Rainbow Dash asked.

When Fluttershy nodded, Applejack frowned, looking at her picture again. "Ah don't get it."

"She's not happy," Fluttershy said, reaching out to take the stack of pictures and slowly looking through them. "She's not happy in any of them."

"But she's smilin' on this one!" Applejack said, bringing up her picture, where indeed Sunset was smiling.

"Yeah, but you're not paying attention," Rainbow Dash replied, grabbing another picture from her backpack. "This is one of the earlier ones, about a month and a half after we started hanging out. Look at her eyes, then at her eyes in your picture."

"Oh my," Rarity said in a low voice. "It never reaches her eyes... she's just doing it almost as if to be polite."

"D-does this mean she cries inside, like Applejack?" Pinkie Pie asked, hair down.

"It means," Rainbow Dash said as she sat down and looked at the others. "That this has been going on for a while now. She's been sad for a long time and we never caught on."

"Well, it's not like we can read her mind," Applejack pointed out.

"Yeah, I know," Rainbow Dash responded with a sigh. "But it just makes me wonder... is it that she never told us? Or just that we never paid attention? And it's not a one-off thing. Look, this is a long time for none of us to notice."

"Not only did we concentrate on what we wanted," Rarity nodded. "But we never really tried to understand how she felt. Even after she told us how she was feeling during the whole situation with the Dazzlings, trying to live up to our expectations..."

Applejack bit her lip, thinking before she spoke up. "Well, it ain't like mopin' around is going to solve anythin'." She looked around at the group. "What matters is, how are we going to fix this?"

"I don't know," Rainbow Dash replied, looking steadily at the others. "But I won't be okay with just an apology. I want to really reach her and to make sure that she understands we mean more than a simple sorry. I want her to know that we know it's not a one time thing that caused this... I-I need to find out what I've done as well to take it to this point."

Rarity marched forward and rested her hand on Rainbow's shoulder. "We all need to do that," she said. "So we'll do it together for Sunset."

Fluttershy nodded with a smile and Pinkie whooped. "For Sunset!"

They all looked at Applejack, who grinned back at them. "Well," she said picking up her own guitar. "Ah know a good way to do it from the heart so there's no mistakin' it."

Rainbow Dash smiled. "And I know the perfect place to tell her our message," she added, bringing up the poster for the music contest.

"But!" Pinkie deflated. "How are we going to get her to listen if she's avoiding us all? Why would she go?"

"Maybe I can help you with that," a familiar voice said. The girls gaped at Principal Celestia, who was leaning against the doorframe. She grinned. "But you'll have to finish playing 'Stairway to Heaven' for me."

Chapter 13: Temptation

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 13: Temptation

Sunset sat, paralyzed by surprise, under Twilight's wings.

"Princess!" She heard Twilight say, and watched her stand up to greet their mentor with a quick nuzzle before stepping to the side, allowing Celestia to focus on Sunset herself. After whispering something to Celestia, Twilight then took Spike and left them alone in her study.

"Sunset?" Celestia asked, slowly approaching. "Am I imagining things or do you have wings now?"

Sunset grinned uncertainly. "Um, surprise?"

"Oh, my little pony, I'm so proud of you!" Celestia said, smiling down at Sunset, but not yet making any attempt to touch her, for which Sunset was grateful. "Did this happen because of your latest magical achievement in the human world where you saved them from corrupted magic?"

"I guess?" Sunset shrugged helplessly. "I had no idea I had grown wings until I came back here... I'm terrified," she confessed, looking at the appendages. "I don't think I deserve them."

Celestia tilted her head. "Why not?"

Sunset's smile turned sad. "Why would I? I betrayed you, stole the Element of Magic, almost invaded Equestria by mind-controlling teenagers, and even after I was 'redeemed' I haven't been able to fully fight my desires to be somepony special. I don't have the real humility needed, nor the achievements, nor the philosophy nor th—"

This time Celestia had embraced her and Sunset's rant stopped with her surprise.

"Hush now, Sunset," Celestia whispered. "Becoming an alicorn is not just decided by those things. You don't have to be perfect in every way to become one: we all are imperfect in our own ways. Being alicorns is about balance... if you became one, it's because you were bringing something that was missing to the world. You don't have to live to any standard but your own, my student, as for being special enough..." Celestia nuzzled her. "You have always been special."

Sunset threw her hooves around Celestia's neck and sobbed into her shoulder. "I'm so sorry!"

Celestia smiled, closing her eyes and leaning into the hug, wrapping her former student with her wings. "I'm sorry too, Sunset, for failing to help you before."

"No, don't apologize," Sunset chuckled between sobs, shaking her head and hoping that she wasn't covering Celestia's wings with snot. "I should have listened, instead of focusing on what I wanted at the cost of everything else."

Celestia giggled, pulling her closer, allowing the closeness to speak for her a little. "Maybe we should just accept each other's apology?" she whispered.

Sunset tightened her hug as well. "Apology accepted," she managed between sniffles.

"Yours too, my little pony."

They held each other for several seconds until Sunset eventually pulled back, although a bit reluctantly. "I have so much to tell you, Princess," she said, raising a hoof to clean her eyes of stray tears.

"And I want to hear all about it," Celestia replied, smiling. "You were about to tell Twilight about her counterpart, I believe?"

Sunset laughed. "Yes... let's go meet her, and I'll give you the highlights as we go."

"That sounds perfect, Sunset."

"Okay, now I need to think of a way to explain..." Sunset grimaced. "Okay, there's this alternate universe where humans can project themselves..."

"Alright." Avalon nodded. "The way you've designed your character doesn't cover the requirements for basic power rifles, but it leaves you free to choose from a variety of handguns. I recommend something efficient with a high damage output for PvP, and... since you're going with me, an optical gun for mob-hunting or a plasma sword if you want to do melee."

Mirage shook her head. "I know that with my high AGI I'll be really hard to hit, but... I'd rather not use a sword, thank you." She glanced at the whole array of handguns on display. "Um, some help?"

"Well, let's get you a .45 chambered Glock for your ammunition gun. They have a good history of service," Avalon said, pulling up the selection on screen. "As for the Optical one... that LV15 laser gun should be fine. Those are better for mobs."

"Hm, I only have one thousand credits," Mirage sighed. "I can't buy either of the guns."

Avalon grinned. "Just wanted to make sure you were okay with those," she said. "As your friend and mentor, I am going to suit you up!"

Mirage's eyes widened. "But—no! I can't, I mean those things are expensive an—"

Avalon was already selecting stuff on her menu. "Don't make a big deal out of it. In these kinds of games equipment like the stuff I'm giving you is rotated out so quickly you'll be laughing in a few days about how worried you were about it. Besides, if you're going to buy some of the good stuff, you'd better start saving. When you make enough money, you should buy a Metamaterial Optical Camouflage Mantle."

A small screen appeared in front of Mirage, listing the items Avalon was giving her. Glock, Laser Gun, 4 plasma grenades, fingerless gloves (Upgraded, DEX +4), a camouflage mantle (Upgraded +9 AGI, +1 armor) and a light ceramic armor (high refraction, +4 bonus defense vs status effects). Two small buttons, one green one red appeared under the list, asking for her to confirm the transfer.

Mirage looked up at the grinning Avalon. "Oh, whatever. But you'll have to let me repay you for these."

Avalon laughed. "Sure. Eventually, but today it's about getting you set up, you'll have plenty of time to play on your own as well to make money and do that." She motioned with her head to a changing room. "Now, come on, you want to change in there, so people can't see you naked."

A few minutes later, Mirage emerged in her getup. "Now what?"

"Now we go shoot a few rounds in the practice area while we wait for a couple of my friends to arrive." Avalon said, leading the way. "Don't worry about ammunition in there, by the way, the system won't take them out of your inventory since it's in practice mode."

Mirage gave her a look. "Look, Tw—Avalon, I appreciate that, but I really want to do this on my own. I want to get up there on my own merits, and having all of these items and help is not doing that."

Avalon nodded, sitting down on a bench and motioning for Mirage to do so as well. "I understand, but there's doing things on your own and then there's discarding advantages that will help you develop your character as you want. The equipment I gave you is something you'd be able to get for the most part in a couple of hours work. It's not a big deal," she said.

Avalon leaned back, shrugging before continuing. "Unless you transfer from another game, everyone here works in squads at some point or another, or needs a tank for those first few levels. Especially since the last expansion, where they introduced the mentoring system."

"I just don't want to depend on you guys to do things for me, T-Avalon," Mirage repeated. "This is a brand new start for me... I want to see how far I can get on my own!"

"We're not going to do the job for you, but we'll make sure you don't die in the process... or we'll try in any case. You might not need us at all, or you might feel stuck and need a little aid. Because this game has a lot of pro-gamers, you really can't trust anyone unless you've known them for a while. The only reason we're meeting with them today is to discuss a bit how to grow your character, maybe give you some pointers and an objective. How you get there, on your own or with our help is up to you. We're offering you assistance, but we won't force it."

Taking a deep breath, Mirage nodded. "Okay... I'm thankful, Twilight, I just want to make sure I have a choice."

"The choice will always be yours," Avalon smiled. "And remember to call me Avalon."

"Sorry."

"Now, get shooting."

Mirage spent the next half hour practicing to hold her breath, aim steadily, change ammunition and making the Bullet Circle narrow for better shots. Her instinctive aiming ability from practicing magic spells as well as her build allowed her to get the hang of it quickly enough to be able to at least hit a static target with some consistency.

Soon enough, Avalon came up to her with two other people, a man and a woman, both dressed in similar style armor as her own. "Mirage, these are Butcher and Wallflower, they are my old squadmates."

Mirage tilted her head. "Old squadmates? You guys don't play together anymore?"

"Occasionally," Wallflower said, her voice warm. "But our squad disbanded shortly after we participated in a special event... those happen from time to time. That's where we got these," she pointed at their armors, and weapons. "They were special drops. It took fifteen squadron's to see the mission through, but we were the ones that finished the job."

"After that, a few of our members left the game for real life reasons," Butcher spoke up, shrugging. "They'll log in from time to time, but there's no reason to keep the squad alive when it's just the three of us hanging out sometimes."

Avalon nodded. "But, they're here for your first day!" She grinned.

Mirage chuckled weakly. "Thank you?"

"Oh, don't thank us yet!" Wallflower's grin grew to cheshire-like proportions. "We're taking you on a high-level hunt!"

"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Mirage asked. "I'm very new. As in, a couple of hours new, and what I read online suggested I wait until—"

"Ignore the internet," Wallflower interrupted. "GGO is not your regular game. You need an awesome weapon, and for that, we'll need to hunt down a mob boss that has a nice drop! Still, it's not like we're taking you there right now."

"And we've selected an option that is doable in a short term," Butcher spoke up. "Level 40 boss, relatively strong, but nothing we can't take. The level is tough, but most of the mobs have low agro... and they don't change targets. It's a good place for higher leveling with tanks, if you want, too."

"Since none of us can be here every time, we've agreed to share our contacts with you and register as friends." Avalon explained. "You can build your character at your own pace, but when you see one of us online, make sure to contact us, we'll join you and give you pointers, as well as help you with small quests."

"The boss we aim to take down with you is not usually hunted, due to most players tending to wield heavier weapons than handguns, but the drop is worth it if you intend to dual-wield," Butcher explained as they all walked across the lobby, drawing far more attention than Mirage had expected. "When you've leveled up to the minimum requirements to enter the dungeon, we'll set a date for us three to join you and we'll hunt it together. Today, Avalon will teach you how to fight mobs, and maybe a few other players." He stopped, showing a small smile. "But for now, we'll have to go."

"Here," Wallflower said, sending a friend invite to Mirage, followed by Butcher and Avalon. "We'll be seeing you around, Mirage! Remember to have fun!"

"I will," Mirage said shaking their hands. "And thank you for offering to help!"

Wallflower laughed. "When little Avalon asked us to help out a friend we couldn't say no, right?" She patted Avalon's back. "Besides, we all remember what it was like to be a n00b when noone is willing to lend a hand. It sucks."

Mirage nodded. "Thank you."

After the pair walked off, Avalon led Mirage to a nearby monorail. "This city is what would happen if cyberpunk met steampunk met Asimov. There's all kinds of transportation, but I'm very fond of the monorail. It's free and it can take you the city exits for most areas. We're starting with simple mobs, so we'll go shoot a few wolves and I'll give you a tour of some low to medium-low leveling areas."

Sunset nodded, taking in the sight of the city as they boarded the monorail. The neon signs, the metallic walls, the hundreds of different types of vehicles. She leaned to the side and gazed at the city that would be her virtual home whenever she could escape.

"Alright," Avalon said, spying their destination, "Use your laser gun for this, so you don't run out of real ammo."

Mirage nodded, setting off to begin her first real steps into building her new persona.

"I accepted their help only a couple of times before I reached level 40 myself," Sunset said. "And then they helped me defeat the level boss and I got my first rare MVP drop: my off-hand gun, Twilight."

"And you say this all takes place in some dream-like world where you all can join in and participate in... shooting each other with otherwise deadly weapons?" Celestia clarified.

"That's correct," Sunset replied, cringing at Celestia's look. "The human world... is not as pacifist as this one."

"That. Sounds. Awesome!"

"Rainbow Dash!" Twilight gasped, looking up at one of the columns that reached the ceiling, where the pegasus had been listening in. "Why didn't you say you were here?"

"And interrupt the story?!" Rainbow gasped. "I would never do that! That place sounds amazing! I never expected the Sunset Shimmer Twilight told us about to be such a badass!"

Sunset gaped at the pegasus, clearly recognizing her erstwhile friend in her. "Y-you think I'm badass?"

"Fighting monsters? Participating in battles with other players? Using weapons to kick ass? Hay yeah I think you're awesome! If I ever visit your world you've got to let me try that!"

Sunset opened and closed her mouth before simply nodding.

"So," Twilight spoke up, while shuffling through notes. "If this game doesn't let you harm anypony, why is it that if you get hurt you feel the pain? Have you figured it out?"

Sunset sighed at the gasps of the others. "It's... well, it's what Science Twilight and I are trying to find out. I think it's our exposure to so much Equestrian magic. I can feel a certain amount of pain if shot and she—"

"Sunset! If you feel pain why do you go back?" Celestia gasped, eyes wide.

Sunset bit her lip and looked down. "Because I'm great at it. I feel alive and I can do what I want without harming others. What's a little pain in exchange for not feeling like a villain all the time?"

Celestia's sharp intake of breath made Sunset look up at her mentor.

"Sunset Shimmer, you don't need to do that. If you wish, you could remain here, where magic comes to you naturally and nopony will judge you."

"Dude, we could totally hang out!" Rainbow Dash said. "I'll teach you to fly and you'll teach me all you know about that game! Maybe we can get Luna to let us dreamscape it! And if not, I know a bunch of Gryphons that would love to have you and I join their mock-battle team! Especially if you don't mind a little pain!"

Sunset just looked at her. "You'd do that for me?"

"Of course! You seem to like a whole bunch of fun things, why wouldn't I want in?"

Sunset blinked, gulping. "But... the Rainbow Dash in the other world just wants to sing and play her own games."

Rainbow Dash, the pegasus, landed in front of Sunset. "Wait, she does?" she cleared her throat. "Well, I guess that's... cool? But, why doesn't she want to join you?"

"We got into a fight," Sunset said. "She cancelled a dinner we had planned and told everyone to go somewhere else. She didn't tell me."

Rainbow sat down, eyes wide. "What?!"

"And when I confronted her about it, she said that if I didn't care about the music group, it didn't matter whether we sorted things out or not."

"What?!" Rainbow Dash repeated, aghast. "B-but why would she do that? Just because you didn't want to be in her silly band? Do you know how many things Twilight likes to do that I don't want any part of, or would wish upon Tirek himself?"

"Hey!"

Rainbow Dash ignored Twilight. "Or how many little quirks Pinkie has that she does on her own or with her sisters? Or all the things Fluttershy does with her animals that she doesn't do with us, like spend Nightmare Night with them?" She shook her head. "Celestia forbid Rarity decides to go on a shopping spree!"

Celestia raised an eyebrow.

"It doesn't make sense!" Rainbow Dash insisted. "If you don't want to do a thing with a friend, it's not the end of Equestria!"

"Well said, Rainbow Dash," Celestia nodded. "But also remember that you have far more experience in friendship than your alter-self. She might not have yet discovered these important tidbits of the magic of friendship that you and your friends here understand so well."

Sunset sniffled. "I wish I could stay."

"Then stay," Twilight said with a small smile. "We won't think less of you, Sunset."

Sunset paused, looking at the ponies and dragon in the room. Her beloved mentor, not only happy to see her, but proud, accepting and advising her to not fear being herself. Twilight, who understood what her life had been like as a student, and had been the first to extend a hand in friendship to her. Rainbow Dash, who was... well, what Sunset wished her Rainbow Dash would be like, and also a sign that the other girls here would be more compatible friends. Spike who had a sense of humor she could share at times, and who seemed as eager as Rainbow Dash here to do things Sunset loved to do.

She looked at the mirror, and the reflective surface showed her the caring eyes and smiles of all around her. But, behind those reflections, a lone, familiar silhouette stood, as if waiting.

Sunset smiled. "I'd love to... but I can't leave my squad waiting, and I promised my best friend, Luna that I would be back tonight."

That got some attention.

Celestia blinked. "Wait, Luna is your best friend?"

"Well," Sunset cleared her throat. "At first I didn't know we'd be such good friends, but it turns out that she also plays GGO, and her character's name is Nightmare Moon..."

"Wait," Celestia said, raising a hoof, her horn glowing. "I've got to get Luna here."

"But how long—"

"Fear not, sister!" Luna roared, materializing in a blast of stars and magic. "I have arrived! Our enemies will fall before mighty—" She blinked and her horn stopped glowing. "Verily, this looks not like a battleground."

"Luna, you're slipping."

Luna snorted. "What do you expect, sister, when you summon us with the emergency spell and I detect a powerful unknown magic in Twilight's castle?" She tilted her head at the stupefied Sunset. "Why, 'tis another alicorn! Truly, the wonders of this age never cease to amaze me! But who is she, and why does she insist on drooling in my presence?"

Celestia chuckled. "This is Sunset Shimmer, my for-my returned student." She smiled warmly. "And she's your best friend in another universe."

Luna approached Sunset. "Well met, Sunset Shimmer, but are you sure we are merely friends in this other world?"

That snapped Sunset out of it. "Yes! Well, no! Best friends!" she cleared her throat, shaking her head, mind spinning. "I think... I mean..." she looked up at Luna. "...she has your eyes?"

"Uh-huh," Luna smirked. "Well, I do approve of my other self's taste." She glanced at Celestia. "Is this why you summoned me, Celestia? To tease your student about her limerence?"

"Oh, no," Celestia chuckled. "She was about to share some experiences with your other self with us, which I thought you would find interesting, although this new development will undoubtedly put things into a new perspective."

"Very well," Luna said, taking a seat. "Bring me up to date quickly, so that we might all partake of Sunset's adventures."

"Oh, I think you'll love the concept of this whole thing..."

Chapter 14: Empathy

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 14: Empathy

As the others explained to Luna what GGO was about, Sunset couldn't help but compare the princess to her Luna. This one seemed more extroverted, just as secure and strong as her human counterpart, but she had an openly-teasing aspect that the vice-principal lacked.

Could things really be that different in each world? Or was her Luna simply holding back? Here Princess Luna seemed to be friends with everypony. Rainbow Dash was comfortably leaning on the couch and nodding excitedly as Celestia told her about what she had heard, and Twilight provided some clarifications from her understanding of the subject.

Her Luna seemed more lonely. Well, except when she was with Sunset. She was all smiles then, and engaging conversation.

Sunset found herself smiling as he watched Princess Luna animatedly discuss the idea with the others. She could see her Luna there, even if it was only at specific moments, when the princess would share some of her friend's mannerisms. It would be wonderful to have her Luna act so comfortable around people one of these days.

It brought forth how much circumstances helped shape a person, or pony. From Rainbow Dash's surprising acceptance, encouragement and eagerness for Sunset's hobby, to Twilight's wiser disposition than their human counterparts.

Even Celestia had changed in the few years since Sunset had last seen her. Perhaps it wasn't noticeable to the ponies that had more casual contact with her, but the way she looked at Twilight and herself was almost truly maternal now. When she had been Celestia's student, there was warmth, for sure, but Celestia was guarded and a bit more distant... more like Principal Celestia acted in the human world. Well-meaning and caring, but holding back that emotional connection just enough.

But now, the princess allowed herself to care more, and Sunset was willing to bet that it was because Luna was back, in no small part.

This world was so similar, and yet so different.

"What's on your mind, my student?"

Sunset started, then looked at Celestia, who was smiling at her. She chuckled, sharing the smile and pausing for a moment to contemplate how to best answer the question. "Nothing much, Princess. Just thinking about how the more things change, the more they remain the same."

Celestia nodded, wrapping her wing around Sunset, who leaned in, resting her head on her teacher's shoulder. "It has been my experience that despite similarities, it is the small things that really make us unique."

Sunset nodded as well and noticed that the others were now taking their seats around her.

"Sunset Shimmer," Luna spoke then, once everypony had sat down comfortably, "the others have brought me 'up to speed' as you say in this age. Please, do continue your story."

Sunset nodded. "I was going to mention your counterpart, Princess... but I think I should cover some other things first." She looked around at the others. "Equestrian magic has a strange effect on GGO players... but Twilight and I discovered that you must be able to generate magic for that to work. When we discovered we were being affected by it, we experimented with some other students that had been exposed to it, but they didn't show any secondary effects."

Twilight Sparkle nodded. "That's right, I have the notes Twilight sent me, and I would have to agree with your assessment. Just like casual exposure—even as intense as it was during the band battle with the Dazzlings—won't empower people to 'pony up' or be able to use magic, and this same effect extends to the VRMMO. I am fairly sure that any of the Rainbooms would experience magical interference, given that they initially channeled the elements of harmony through me and remained active as magical nodes in the human world."

"What?" Rainbow Dash asked after a moment.

"They contain real magic and that makes them different," Spike explained. "The other students don't have magic, even if they have been close to it."

"Ooooh!" Rainbow nodded. "Carry on!"

Sunset was about to do so when Twilight spoke up.

"There is something that bothers me, though, Sunset." Twilight narrowed her eyes. "You said that both you and Twilight had secondary effects as players, but when you were saying earlier that you feel pain when damaged, you were beginning to tell us—before you were interrupted—about Human Twilight's experience, and it sounded like she had a different effect in place."

Sunset nodded. "It happened after Butcher, Wallflower, Avalon and I fought the boss-level monster they had intended to help me fight."

Desert Mirage rolled under the legs of the giant troll as a shower of laser blasts scorched its upper body. The greenish-gray monstrosity turned around just in time to receive a shotgun blast to the back, courtesy of Avalon, which drew its attention to her, exposing his side to yet another shotgun shot from Wallflower, who seemed to emerge from thin air.

The troll roared, swinging its giant mace around and scrapping the metal floor with its weapon, sending a shower of sparks flying, while still missing Wallflower by inches.

"Mirage, now!" Butcher shouted.

Wallflower smirked, back-flipping high into the air and allowing Mirage to charge right under her, both guns aiming up at the monster's head.

Mirage fired the guns at the same time, and watched with a grin as they hit the troll straight in the eyes, passing through its head and leaving scorch marks on the ceiling above.

A little star on her HUD announced they were critical hits just as the monster itself started dissipating into fragments of energy. Mirage sighed, leaning against the wall and sliding down to sit.

The victory fanfare played around them and a screen appeared in front of all of them. In front of Sunset, the "Killing Shot" bonus screen appeared, with a description of her item.

Rare Drop: Twilight

Ultralight Materials Desert Eagle .50 semi. 8-shot special.

When Mirage saw the name of the gun she started laughing.

The others approached, looking just as singed, scraped and bruised as she was, grinning at her.

"Well done!" Wallflower exclaimed, jumping up in her excitement. "And you got the rare version of the item too!"

"Congratulations on the victory." Butcher nodded. "You didn't need us much for leveling, and you did great."

"Good job, Desert Mirage!" Avalon laughed, sitting next to her and looking at the screen. "Make sure you wield Twilight carefully."

Mirage gaped at her. "You knew?!"

Avalon grinned. "Of course I did."

Mirage chuckled, shaking her head and closing the window before looking at the others. "Thank you guys, I couldn't have done it without you."

"Pshaw." Wallflower waved a hand dismissively. "It would have taken you a little more time. We're always glad to help."

Butcher nodded with a small smile, which turned into a slightly embarrassed grimace. "However, we need to get going for now." He sighed, then stretched before looking down at the pair of friends. "Well if you girls see us around don't forget to say hi."

"We won't!" Mirage promised.

Wallflower grinned and saluted before she faded away alongside Butcher.

"Well, that certainly was intense, wasn't it?" Avalon said, standing up. "Want to go to the bar?"

"Sure," Mirage groaned. "Just give me a few minutes tho, my whole body aches from when I got a glancing blow from that troll."

Avalon stopped and looked down at Mirage. "Wait, what? Are you in pain?"

Mirage nodded, glancing up at her. "Of course. Don't tell me you don't feel those?" she motioned at the several scrapes, dents and cuts Avalon sported.

Avalon kneeled next to her. "Su-Mirage, you're not supposed to feel pain at all."

Mirage's eyes widened. "But... how? I mean, I've felt everything every time I'm hit!"

Avalon's face had turned from mild confusion into panic, and Mirage could already see her start to breathe fast, her eyes wide. "Avalon!"

Around her, the world seemed to twist just so and suddenly there was a small window of some sort, and Mirage could see through it into... "Twilight's room?" she gasped, being able to see Twilight unconscious body in her bed, covered in sweat and breathing hard. She turned around and grabbed Avalon's shoulders. "TWILIGHT!"

That seemed to snap her friend out of her panic attack and both of them stared as the little hole in the air shimmered and disappeared.

"I-I can't stay here!" Avalon stammered, summoning her menu. In a second she was gone.

"Dammit!" Mirage growled, pushing herself up and forcing herself to drink her last healing potion. Slowly the pain subsided and she made her way out of the labyrinthine spaceship they had cleared.

She would have just logged out, but she needed to think.

"It didn't take us long to figure it out... Twilight was infused with the full dimensional magic from the portal, but thanks to her not being a unicorn originally, her powers seem to have been limited to that." Sunset grimaced. "I say limited, but... it's a very scary idea that in GGO she can use that power, or that through her experiments she can do it on a similar scale with the diary as a focus point. She's terrified of going back right now. In my case... if we use the diary as a focus for GGO, I have full access to my unicorn magic, but it doesn't feel right. While I can use some magic outside of the game, its feel is different, more natural. In there... it feels addictive."

Twilight nodded, looking over her notes once more. "And you have actually attempted opening portals again, correct?"

"A couple of times, when Twilight is not too afraid," Sunset said. "We've managed to keep them to a minimal size and once threw an apple through into GGO so I could throw it back at her, but for the most part we're trying to see if I can learn to control my full power in there... although the temptation to use this magic is very strong."

The three princesses were looking at her very seriously. "Dimensional magic is not to be trifled with lightly, Sunset Shimmer," Princess Luna said. "You can let in—or let out—very dangerous things indeed."

Sunset nodded soberly. "I know... and Twilight knows too. Outside of GGO and without her technology and the diary together, she's completely incapable of doing anything with her power, and she's too afraid of what happened the first time to try and use it in GGO or even pony-up in the real world."

Celestia shook her head. "Fear won't help her. Once we have more information we can think of a plan of action, possibly even bring her here for some time to learn to control her power, in the meantime please be careful, Sunset."

"I promise I will, Princess." Sunset nuzzled her mentor, relishing the fact that she could finally do it again. Had she ever done that before leaving? She couldn't recall and that caused a stab of pain in her heart.

"Another thing that worries me is this unnatural feel you say your magic has when within that world," Luna spoke up again. "I can see that it worries you, Sunset Shimmer."

Sunset sighed. "I think that the magic feels strange because it's not supposed to exist in that world... but it doesn't have an evil essence to it. It's just..." she trailed off.

"Sunset," Twilight spoke up. "We're here for you and we all know a lot about magic, maybe we can help."

Sunset nodded. "I'm afraid I will relapse," she confessed, focusing on the floor. "When I use magic... beyond levitation or a few flame spells, I feel such a rush and nostalgia and power... it's difficult to explain. I fear that if I let myself be one with the magic again, I'll end up hurting everyone."

She remained silent as the others silently looked at each other. The weight of it was killing her and just as she was about to stand, Celestia nuzzled her. "It's okay, Sunset. We trust you."

Sunset nodded, her face buried in her teacher's mane, and thus missing the look Celestia gave Luna.

"Well then," Luna spoke up, making Sunset look at her. "You were going to tell us about my counterpart?"

Sunset smiled, forcing her worries away. "Ah, yes. It was a couple of months later that I met her, after I had leveled up considerably which was a good thing, since the tournament I'm part of has a minimum level requirement of 80..."

"...and that's the last thing we did before coming here. Luna saw me off at the statue, and well, here I am."

"Your adventures are very interesting, Sunset," Celestia said and Sunset could have sworn there was a touch of pride in her tone. "Learning to follow a leader, especially when so much rides on it is a very important skill, and this 'Surgeon' friend of yours seems like a capable tactician."

Luna snorted. "What kind of leader sacrifices himself first thing in the whole battle?" she challenged. "What if things had gone wrong?"

"I imagine that since this is a game, dear sister and the stakes not as high as life or death, he decided to prove his trust to his followers by taking a hit for his team," Celestia pointed out. "Recall that they have just recently joined, and him callously sacrificing a player when he wouldn't take that risk himself would probably strain some relationships."

While Luna pondered her sister's words, Celestia stood up. "There is something I must attend with the help of Princess Twilight, however," she said with a small nod to Sunset. "We will be back soon, my student, so don't worry. Spike, please accompany us."

Twilight blinked in surprise, but shrugged and nodded. "Sure thing princess!"

"Dang it," Rainbow Dash said, standing as well and glaring outside. "It's my turn to hold the front for the Weather Team," she said with a disgusted grunt before walking up to Sunset and lifting a hoof. "Hey, it's been real cool to meet you Sunset, if you ever come back, let me know so we can hang out okay? You're officially in my book of awesome."

Sunset gulped down and nodded, trying not to show how much Rainbow's words had affected her. She bumped her hoof with Rainbow Dash's and smiled. "Thank you, I think you're awesome too, and I'll definitely let you know when I visit. I'd like to hang out with you and meet your gryphon friends."

Rainbow Dash chuckled. "Try not to be too rough on them, or Octavia will never forgive me if Angus arrives all battered." She saluted and flew off, leaving behind a very confused Sunset.

"It seems it's just the two of us, young Sunset," Luna spoke up, reminding Sunset that she was still there. "Come, we shall speak someplace else."

Sunset nodded and followed the princess out of the room. They walked in silence through the long, empty hallways made of purple crystal, their hooves producing the only sound in the air.

It reminded Sunset of a dungeon level of some sort—not that she would ever tell that to Twilight—but the resemblance to some of the underground levels of GGO was uncanny.

After climbing up a spiral staircase, they finally arrived at a balcony overlooking Ponyville. The sun was well on its way to the horizon, and the air felt cool and refreshing after a long day of sitting inside.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Luna asked.

"It is," Sunset agreed, taking a deep breath. "There's no other place like Equestria."

Luna nodded. "And yet, once upon a time I would have doomed it to eternal night."

Sunset's eyes widened and she looked at Princess Luna in surprise and pity.

Luna smiled at her. "It's a sad truth that fear and jealousy and desperation can blind us to the things that we are meant to protect and nourish, isn't it?"

Sunset nodded, not trusting herself to speak.

Luna looked away from her, at the distant horizon. "Oftentimes, I dream of my return and my last night as Nightmare Moon." She placed a hoof on the balcony rail. "I am healed by the Elements of Harmony, but as soon as my sister arrives to welcome me back, I raise again as Nightmare Moon and destroy her and the Elements, laughing, victorious and crazy as once again I doom the world.

"When I wake up, I'm afraid. Terrified of raising the moon if it's the appropriate time. I'm at times completely paralyzed, my thoughts a fractured kaleidoscope of myself and visions of Nightmare Moon rising once again, Canterlot burning, the Elements dead or dying.

"I have to take a breath. Remember who I am, center myself. I find comfort in the thoughts that Twilight is an alicorn now, and that Cadance as well is here. Surely the two of them, with the aid of Celestia, the other element bearers and even Discord would bring me down if I were to lose myself.

"But... the fear remained for a long time. So much so that I punished myself nightly to ensure it would not come to pass." She looked at Sunset with a small smile. "I understand your fear Sunset Shimmer, for it is very similar to my own."

Sunset didn't know what to do. Should she say something?

When Luna wrapped her wing around her and pulled her close, Sunset was shocked enough to not even think of resisting.

"You cannot let your fear define you," Luna whispered. "Already you fight it, learning your limits in this new world of yours. You control your access to it, focus on it and fight the rush of power. This is good my friend, it takes courage, far more than many would understand. But you must remember, it's not just a matter of control; your magic is part of you. It's intrinsic to your very existence. The fact that you arrive here an alicorn is proof of this.

"But you are not alone, just as I am not alone. Your friend—the scientist Twilight Sparkle—is suffering from the same fears and uncertainties, and she only has you to support her on this level of significance. Help her see her friendships, the love of her partner, the strength of your will. We are all here for you, and by extension her. Reinforce this knowledge once you impart it on her.

"Neither of you must run away from it. It might hurt. It might be scary. It might challenge you both. But you are creatures of magic, and denying it will only damage you both."

Sunset let out a long breath and cuddled up to Luna, opening her eyes to look at the vast expanse of Equestria. "And if I fail?"

"You will not fail," Luna responded firmly and without a moment's hesitation. "For you are Sunset Shimmer, student of Princess Celestia, maker of your own Destiny. And you are also Desert Mirage: warrior, hunter, leader." She smiled down at Sunset. "Such a pony, or person, cannot lose to their own fears, for it is anathema to Sunset Shimmer."

Chapter 15: Parallels

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 15: Parallels

The full moon cast its light over Canterlot High, seeming to bend around and catch the edges of the winged unicorn statue giving it an almost ephemeral feel. Luna sat on the stairs leading out of the school, waiting. She had decided to come on her own, although whether she would confess her feelings for Sunset now or later remained to be seen.

'Is it that I'm being sensible about it and I don't want to pressure her just as she comes out of the statue, or is it that I'm just afraid?'

She chuckled. 'A bit of both, probably.'

She checked her watch, noting the time. Almost midnight. For a second, she felt a pang of fear. 'What if she doesn't come back?' The thought made her feel guilty. 'But if she's happier there... isn't it unfair for me to want her back?'

Luna sighed. Getting depressed about that possibility without any proof was not a good sign. She was younger than her sister, but Celestia was right: she was no teenager and she had no business being so distressed over this. And yet, old insecurities were unusually hard to get rid of, even if plenty of time should have passed.

When the base of the statue flared to life, Luna's eyes widened.

Coming out of it was Sunset, but for a moment, she had beautiful wings with feathers the color of flames and a bright spiraled horn of fire on her forehead. Luna could feel the sheer magic coming out the portal—no, from Sunset Shimmer herself—engulfing the area around them. It was warm and uplifting; it gave her the same feeling of wrapping herself in her favorite blanket on a snowy night.

And then Sunset took another step, and the familiar not-teen-despite-appearances was standing in front of her, doing her best to balance two very large and apparently full bags, and staring at Luna in surprise.

Luna's heart fluttered when Sunset smiled. "Luna... you've been waiting for me?"

Luna grinned and nodded. "I wasn't going to let you arrive without anyone here to welcome you back." She stepped forward and embraced Sunset, who leaned into it briefly. "Here, let me help you with some of that stuff." Luna offered, taking a bag from Sunset. "I'm glad I thought about bringing Celestia's car instead of my motorcycle. It'll make carrying all of these things quicker."

"Oh, I couldn't—"

"Please," Luna interrupted. "It's my pleasure."

Sunset chuckled and nodded, following Luna to the parking lot. "Thank you, Luna, it means a lot to me to have someone waiting for me on this side."

'Don't say something sappy. Don't say something sappy. Don't say something sappy.' Luna thought, keeping straight face. "What kind of friend would I be if I weren't here for you when you need it?"

Sunset smiled and leaned into Luna, giving her a surprise-hug, which the other woman returned, before leaning back and giving her a questioning look. Sunset chuckled and let her go, motioning towards the car with her head.

"I should warn you that I might be a bit more hug-crazy for the next couple of hours, Luna," Sunset said when they finally reached the car. "Nuzzles are common signs of support, gratitude and affection in Equestria, and it takes a bit of time for me to shake that off."

Luna smirked. "You won't hear me complain." 'Smooth, Luna.'

"Good," Sunset replied, apparently missing the meaning behind Luna's words, for which the latter was both grateful, and slightly disappointed. "But I'll still try not to make you uncomfortable." She blinked when she opened the door. "Wait... it smells like food."

Luna grinned. "Of course. I couldn't welcome you back properly without dinner, could I? So I got Korean. I hope you like bibimbap."

Sunset laughed. "As if you need to ask!" She blinked. "Wait, I just remembered something," she turned and fished through one of her bags and pulled out a scroll with a silver clasp. "Here," she said, passing it over to Luna. "It's from Princess Luna, to you."

Luna stared at the scroll in her hand for a moment. "What."

"The princess insisted I give it to you as soon as I saw you," Sunset said. "She wouldn't tell me what was written inside, however."

"Will I be able to read it? I saw Twilight's application for the Prom... it wasn't in English."

Sunset shrugged. "I did explain to her how our writing is different, but she said she'd take care of that."

Curious, Luna slid the silver clasp off of the scroll and opened it, peering inside.

Dear Vice Principal Luna,

We find Sunset Shimmer adorable. If we do not hear from Twilight Sparkle's Diary that you have claimed Sunset Shimmer as your own, soon we will.

Respectfully,

Your other self, Princess Luna.

"What does it say?"

Luna rolled the scroll shot and slid the clasp on it to seal it. She started the car and drove off to Sunset's apartment.

"Luna! Come on! Tell me!"

"It's nothing important," Luna said evenly.

"Your knuckles are going white around the wheel."

"My other me knows me too well. That is all."

Sunset pouted a little, but shook her head. "So, anything interesting happen in GGO while I was gone?" she asked.

Ever grateful for the shift in topic, Luna shook her head. "Surgeon and the others were disappointed that you couldn't log in today, but understanding. He did arrange for us to meet to discuss Team Daybreak."

"Oh?" Sunset seemed surprised. "What for?"

Luna grimaced. "They lost to X-COM and he feels that given our similar styles, there's much to learn from them."

Sunset sighed, but said no more.

Luna patted her shoulder just as they parked. "I'm sure it will be fun."

Sunset let out a long, calming breath, putting down her backpack and stretching. Surprisingly the day at school had gone through without a hitch. The girls had left her mostly alone, only pausing to say hi or wave at her, which gave her hope that they were not angry at her, or deciding to ignore her completely.

They were leaving the ball in her park, so to speak. Whether she took them up in their offer or not was up to her.

'Maybe I should...

"It's not like it would matter, if you don't care about our group."

Sunset shook her head as Rainbow Dash's voice ringed in her mind. "No, maybe I should wait." She took of her jacket and hung it before waking her computer from Sleep Mode. Seconds later, she was ready to go.

"Link Start!"

The world exploded into light and colors, and when she opened her eyes, she was Desert Mirage once again.

The meeting place was a pseudo-Chinese restaurant in the lower section of the eastern side of Glocken. For all its being hidden from view, the area was actually nice, with a couple of parks, a lot of restaurants and shops.

Mirage entered the restaurant, making the bell at the door ring. She immediately saw Surgeon, seated at the largest table in the place; it was round with a red symbol in the center, and could easily sit fourteen people in it, so they all had plenty of space. Already the rest of the team was there, sitting and having ordered their drinks.

"And our last member arrives," Surgeon said, waving for her to sit between him and Nightmare Moon. "I didn't expect you to be the last one here."

Mirage snorted. "There's always a first time for everything."

Surgeon nodded and motioned with his hand. The table shifted and a holographic display materialized over it, showing several individuals in a line, along with some statistics. "This is Team Daybreak. From left to right: Eve Corona, Roxy Cane, Aegis Cross, Battery Crack, Blitz Charge, Midnight and Ruin 8." He clicked something on his pad and another series of players appeared. "And their opponents: Team X-COM. Left to right... Wallflower, Butcher, Striker, Surial, Sukiru, Ripp3r and Rock."

Each member in the hologram lit up as they were mentioned by Surgeon. "Daybreak fought against X-COM and lost," Surgeon continued. "And given how similar their strengths are to our team, I think we should study the battle and see for ourselves how our counterparts suffered. But, before we start we should ask our local X-COM member if there's anything she'd like to share?"

The others all looked down from the hologram in surprise and followed Surgeon's look straight to Desert Mirage.

"You were part of X-COM?!" Heavy Collar asked, surprised. "How come you never told us?!"

"Don't be ridiculous." Nightmare Moon snorted. "Desert Mirage wasn't playing this game until X-COM disbanded."

"Maybe she lied about that too!" Thunderbird spoke up.

Mirage rolled her eyes. "I know three members of the original team, alright? I was never part of their squad. All I can tell you is that Butcher and Wallflower are the only two original members there... I don't know any of the others. And no, I don't have much to add because whenever we teamed up it was for PvM raids, okay? Their tactics would be very different for PvP."

"That's right," The Lion said, nodding at her before glaring at the others. "Unless you all have forgotten your leveling experience, monsters take completely different tactics than other gamers. Granted, we all here are experienced PKers and hunters, but you can't have forgotten something so basic."

"Of course not!" Thunderbird moaned. "It's just... ugh. Whatever."

"If you're all done," Surgeon spoke up. "Take a look at the video. The way this was done we can easily break down into smaller segments. Let's see... the first to be taken down were Aegis Cross, Battery Crack and Blitz Charge."

The hologram played the video, displaying a large highway that had collapsed halfway into a canyon, with cars, huge pieces of concrete and rocks all around. The camera shifted, focusing on the three mentioned players.

"Well, I don't see them doing anything wrong," Heavy Collar said. "With the others moving forward, the one in pink sleeveless crop top and blue camouflage khakis... uh—" He checked his pad. "—Blitz Charge, she's planting explosives around the area fast, and she's doing a good job of it. Look at that, Battery Crack is doing the same in the other side of the area while Aegis covers them. X-COM hasn't even taken a shot at them, but they've fortified a good portion of their field, and Aegis is already set up to demolish anyone coming at them. He's also got good cover and his teammates have already booby-trapped the area behind him too. I don't see how—"

He cut off when the whole scene went up in flames. "What the hell?! Does X-COM have a missile user? How come they didn't see them get close enough? There's no way Aegis wouldn't have shot them down, or even the missile, before that happened. That guy's a monster!"

"Hay, any of them should have seen that coming. There's no way you can shoot a missile without everyone knowing where you are." Thunderbird added

"Wait, I saw something," Coyote said, touching the table controls and scrolling back, then rotating the scene to close up on Blitz Charge. He slowly moved the video forward until Blitz suddenly exploded. "He was setting an explosive there. Did she betray them?"

"There's a far simpler solution to how this happened," Nightmare Moon said, reaching down to rotate the video to the moment of the explosion. "Blitz wasn't the objective: it was the explosives she was setting up. Make that explode at the right moment, when they're too close to the other explosives and the whole rig of traps they had set up will do the rest for you."

"But why didn't they notice it?" The Lion asked Nightmare Moon, then his eyes widened. "Wait, you mean—"

Nightmare Moon nodded. "Sukiru, their sniper, did it. She sacrificed her silent shot for that and gave away her position."

"Still, taking three in one shot? That's..." Sunset trailed off.

"Very good," Nightmare Moon acknowledged, eyes narrowed.

"Y mucha suerte," Coyote said.

"Less luck than you might think, I believe," Surgeon spoke up. "X-COM didn't attack right off the bat, and I'm thinking they grew overconfident in that they might not have been discovered yet."

The camera moved back up to show the whole battlefield.

"And it seems their sniper sacrificed more than anticipated, Roxy Cane and Eve Corona are almost upon him and there's no way Sukiru can fight them both." Nightmare Moon said, but she gasped when they were hit from the side just as they charged past a collapsed 18-wheeler.

Eve Corona actually managed to jump out of the way, rolling forward and taking a shot at Sukiru with his sub-machine guns, scoring several hits before he jumped for cover.

Roxy Cane wasn't so lucky as Ripp3r's mounted machine gun tore through his armor too fast for him to move. Eve Corona didn't look back, however, quickly dodging onto the covered section where he had seen Sukiru hide, only to smack onto a riot shield held by a heavily armored man.

Acting on instinct, Cane shot again, backpedaling. The bullets, however, ricocheted from the shield and he was quickly cut down from the combined fire of both Rock and Sukiru.

"I don't understand," said Nightmare Moon, looking at her pad. "It says here that Midnight is their sniper, correct? Why hasn't he shot anyone?"

Surgeon paused the video. "While that was happening, at that exact time, Butcher was in a shootout with Ruin8, both of them holding down this small pass... clearly the route to Midnight's position."

Mirage snorted. "Wallflower already went past, didn't she?"

Surgeon zoomed away to where they could see Midnight in an advantageous position, aiming carefully in Butcher's direction, when suddenly, out of thin air, Wallflower appeared behind him, shooting her automatic rifle liberally.

This made Ruin8 look back in horror, and missed the grenade that Butcher had already tossed his way. With a blast, the match was decided.

The group stared in silence as the announcement for X-COM as winners appeared in the video, and Surgeon dismissed it. "So, what have we learned?"

"That those X-COM guys are assholes." Thunderbird took a long drink. "I mean seriously, that could have been us!"

"They're damn lucky those two explosives experts were not used to working with each other," Collar finally said, having remained quiet since the first part of the battle. "I've been going over the video, and they were individually doing a perfect job. But they didn't account for the materials and type of traps the other was using."

"It also tells me that Sukiru has a lot of freedom for taking shots, but more importantly, he knows when to take advantage of opportunity." Nightmare Moon added.

Surgeon tilted his head. "How do you figure?"

"I doubt that their leader would have told Sukiru to wait until the explosives experts make a mistake," Nightmare Moon remarked, smirking. "He was probably trying to figure out how to take Aegis Cross, and noticed that those two were close enough for some luck and skill to take them all down."

"Their scout should have been out there, unless they were paranoid about Wallflower," Coyote spoke up. "With her appearing de la nada como mi suegra; they probably wanted a player with high SEN to locate her."

"That doesn't work with Wallflower," Mirage muttered.

"Clearly," Nightmare Moon nodded.

"I think the point where everything crashed down was when Eve Corona and Roxy Cane rushed the sniper," Coyote added. "Without their scout, they never saw Ripp3r's ambush, and they didn't know that Rock was hiding next to Sukiru for a close combat surprise."

"But why didn't Midnight shoot the other sniper?" Nightmare Moon wondered.

Surgeon crossed his fingers and rested his elbows on the table, leaning into his hands. "I imagine it was their leader's instruction," he explained, pointing at Eve Corona. "He and Roxy charged, and he was already out of the game by how quickly three of his members were decimated. He told Midnight to wait and take whoever approached Midnight's location, rather than the other sniper because he thought they would be enough to bring Sukiru down. In other words, their leader let the whole world collapse around him when things didn't go according to plan."

The table was silent for a moment.

"Well, what now?" Thunderbird asked. "Other than scaring us half to death, what expect us to do?"

Surgeon smirked, turning off the hologram. "We improve our teamwork and reaction times." He looked at the other players, his eyes narrowed. "We'll do the raid. The whole thing. From the beginning of the dungeon to the level boss. We don't lose a single person. We use all our skills and we beat it on the first try."

The Lion grimaced. "You know the chances of that are very slim."

Surgeon's smile widened. "With this team?" He glanced around. "We can do it. If we don't hold back."

Mirage nodded. "Tomorrow, then."

Luna sighed, stretching and walking off to get ready for sleep. Changing into her favorite star-decorated two piece pjs, she half walked, half stumbled to bed and lay down on it, yawning. She turned off the light, and looked out the window at the moon in all its glory.

Something reflected the moonlight, and she glanced at her bedside table, where the scroll Princess Luna had sent her rested. The clasp with the moon on it glittered under the silvery light and Luna turned away from it, huffing.

"What does she know, anyway?" she muttered, yawning away. Slowly she drifted into sleep.

Luna floated in darkness... no, not darkness. Outer space. There were stars above and around her and below her. She turned, gazing at them in awe and feeling a kinship with them, a faint whisper of dreams long forgotten.

"What is an astronaut?" a voice asked, strangely familiar.

Luna turned in space, eyes wide at the night-blue winged unicorn in front of her, who was looking at her in amusement.

"An astronaut is a person that can travel to space," Luna explained, then shook her head. "But who—"

"Is it not obvious?" the winged unicorn asked, smiling. "We are you."

In that instant it dawned on Luna. "Y-you're Princess Luna!" she cried in shock. "What-why are you here?!"

"Because we felt needed in this distant land, of course," the princess replied. "And the correct term for those such as I, Twilight Sparkle, Celestia, Cadance and Sunset Shimmer is 'Alicorn'," she added, grinning. She walked around Luna, looking her up and down. "We approve of our appearance in your world, 'tis pleasant to the eye and your mane, although static, seems very healthy and well taken care of."

Luna cleared her throat. "Um, thank you, princess. You are lovely yourself, I always wondered how I would look in the other side of the portal. But I can't believe you're here simply to flatter yourself."

"Nay, we are not only here for that, we admit," Princess Luna said with a curt nod. "As much as we enjoy appreciating our form, we come with a much more important matter in mind. Truly, an event of such importance that my appearance here was much needed."

A white table, two chair and a tea set materialized between them, and the princess motioned for Luna to take a sit, doing the same shortly after.

"We are here..." Princess Luna grinned. "To discuss how to win Sunset Shimmer's heart for yourself."

Chapter 16: Tactics

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 16: Tactics

"I'm not doing this," Luna stated, glaring over her tea at Princess Luna. "No offense, your highness, but it's my life and Sunset's we're talking about here. If I let this turn into a gossip festival just so you can have fun—"

Princess Luna raised a hoof, still smiling. "Please, we have no intention of forcing the issue. We would not appreciate it either if an inter-dimensional visitor decided to take interest in our love life. We were merely teasing."

Luna released a breath and arched an eyebrow. "Then what do you have in mind, and do you have to use the royal 'we'?"

"Just an offer," Princess Luna said. "The reason I am able to talk to you is because of the magical seal on the scroll Sunset gave you. As a kindred spirit... and somepony who knows what it feels like to be alone, not as a filly—or a teen—but as a full grown mare, I wish to offer you somepony to talk to. A friend."

Luna's eyebrows shot up and she stared at the pony princess in front of her. "A-a friend?"

Princess Luna nodded. "Indeed. While accessing your dream, a passing thought of yours echoed in your mind—the value of Sunset's friendship and the fear of losing her friendship if things were not to solve themselves into a relationship."

"Are you able to read my mind?" Luna growled.

Princess Luna chuckled. "Nay. The thought echoed in your dreams. I wouldn't invade your mind even if I could."

Assuaged by the princess' claim, Luna relaxed into her chair. "It's silly, I know."

"Silly?" Princess Luna tilted her head. "How so?"

"I'm an adult. I shouldn't be so afraid of rejection."

Princess Luna laughed, a clear non judgmental laugh. It sounded almost fond. "Nay again, my dear Luna. 'Tis not childish, nor silly to be afraid of losing something as valuable as friendship. Often, too many ponies forget that."

Luna nodded, looking down at her tea. "I am going to tell her in my own time."

Princess Luna smiled. "I know. And fret not, I do not intend to pursue Sunset Shimmer."

Luna sighed in relief. "I'm glad to hear that, but it was mean of you to say that in the first place."

Princess Luna laughed. "It might be true. I have become a bit of a prankster thanks to Twilight Sparkle and our friends, and sometimes I might push things. I do apologize."

"No need, Princess." Luna chuckled. "I'd rather stay on the good side of inter-dimensional royalty, after all," she teased.

Princess Luna nodded. "A wise choice indeed." She smirked. "Then you should make sure not to upset Princess Sunset Shimmer."

When Princess Luna started to suddenly fade away, the smirk still in her face, Luna gaped. "Wait, what's going on?"

Princess Luna beat her wings, raising into the moonlight. "It's time for me to go, we shall speak again!"

"Wait," Luna called, raising up. "I still have questions! Wait!"

Luna snorted awake, and blinked in confusion at her ceiling. She shook her head, cleaning the drool from her chin and glaring at the innocent-looking silver clasp. "Curse you, Princess."

She lowered her fist after shaking it at the clasp and chuckled before laying down in bed.

"Wait." Luna sat up in bed, eyes wide. "Did she say Sunset's a princess?!"

"Oh, so that's why..." Twilight muttered, looking at the several scrolls of notes Princess Twilight had sent her way. "That makes sense..."

Lemon Zest blinked as she studied the texts over Twilight's shoulder. "You understand pony handwriting?"

"It's more like mouthwriting, to be exact," Sunset spoke up, fiddling around with some levers and looking at her diary for any changes. "Although in the case of unicorns and alicorns, we can use our magic to hold the quill. Everypony else uses their mouth."

"I see."

"In any case, to answer your question, I do," Twilight said after she rolled up a scroll and picked up another one. She looked up at her girlfriend. "Princess Twilight used a magical item to fuel a translation spell which she shared with me, allowing me to understand their written language. Since the spoken version is the same, it simplified a lot of things, otherwise communication for scientific discussion would be complicated."

Lemon Zest hugged Twilight and planted a kiss on her cheek. "Aww! I love it when you're nerdy!"

"So, today I'd like to just have the magic input as low as possible," Sunset said, sitting on the bed and readying herself for Full-Diving into GGO. "We're going hunting a level boss, so I don't want to spoil the effort by cheating with magic."

"And presumably you don't want them to know that you can do that at all, cheating or no, correct?" Lemon Zest deadpanned.

Sunset blushed. "Yeah, that too."

Twilight giggled and nodded. "We can work on recalibrating everything with a much lower input of magic into the system. We might find out something the higher energy levels might've hid."

Sunset smiled in return. "Well, I'll get going then. You two behave."

"W-we're not going to—" Twilight started to stammer, but Sunset didn't wait.

"Link start!"

Desert Mirage emerged from the pine forest, where a beaten path led to a large, excavated gap on the side of a large mountain. Several metallic structures were half-covered in rock, with old platforms attached to them for the mining crews.

Beyond those metallic, inaccessible structures, a very large cave gaped into the world outside, a small river trickling out of it to eventually join a larger one far below in the valley.

Some of the cave's insides could be seen even from the distance: more metallic parts inside, some lit up with mysterious energy, and humongous stalactites and stalagmites of rock, metal and electric components gave it the look of a giant mechanical hive of some sort.

Sitting on a rock on the side of the road leading up to their eventual destination, her large plasma sniper rifle leaning against her shoulder, was Nightmare Moon, looking pensive. She glanced up and blinked against the sunlight when she noticed Mirage's movement, and soon her face had a dazzling smile on it. "Mirage, nice to see you."

Mirage giggled and went to sit next to Nightmare Moon. "You too, you were pretty busy today. I barely caught a glimpse of you."

Nightmare Moon chuckled, shaking her head. "No RL talk, remember?" she teased, poking Mirage's ribs and earning a swat on her hand. "It was a long day, paperwork-wise and I didn't get much sleep last night."

Mirage grimaced. "Well, if you're not feeling up to it—"

"Don't worry, I have no problem with this. It's my free time and I couldn't be spending it with better company."

Mirage's grimace disappeared, replaced again with a smile. "Couldn't have said it better myself." She looked around at the forest, the impressive entrance to the dungeon, the snow-covered top of the jagged mountain and took in the feel of the air and the companionable presence of Nightmare Moon. "I wish you and I could visit places like this more often just to spend time together."

Nightmare Moon blinked, turning to look at Mirage. She hesitated. "Do you really mean th—?"

"Hey! If it isn't our princesses!"

"Don't call me princess!" both Nightmare Moon and Mirage snapped at Coyote, then looked at each other and giggled.

"Heh," Coyote shook his head, smiling at them and looking up at the mountain. "You two, I never imagined I'd hear giggling. Son muy serias, most of the time."

"I think they're just starting to trust us more," The Lion said, emerging from the forest path and waving at the three. He whistled as he looked around. "That, and how can you not be happy with a view like this? It's the first time we're taking a break as a team too."

"Lo que necesitamos son chelas, tequila y una parrilla," Coyote declared walking up to a tree and sitting at its base.

"I'm not entirely sure what you said, but if it involves tequila it can only be good," the Lion retorted, chuckling.

Nightmare Moon and Mirage shared a smile.

"Were you going to ask me something?" Mirage asked.

Nightmare Moon shook her head. "It can wait. Would you like to meet tonight? I know this lovely ramen place, it's designed to look and feel as if you were in Tokyo."

Mirage grinned. "Sure!" She poked Nightmare Moon's rib. "Didn't you say no RL talk tho?"

Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes. "You love talking about food."

"Hey guys!" Thunderbird called, walking into the small gathering. "I hope you're ready for hunting today!"

"I know I am!" Heavy Collar said, walking into the gathering along with Surgeon a few seconds after Thunderbird. "I brought plenty of explosives, too!"

The group greeted the last three arrivals before Surgeon urged them together to gather in a circle. "I'm glad to see we're all enjoying ourselves," he said sitting down on the ground. "So let's make the most of this break. Since we all want to make it to the level boss and beat it without any losses, how about we talk a little about how our weapons affect our approach?"

Mirage nodded, pulling out two futuristic-looking guns. "Unlike my usual fare, I use two plasma guns for hunting mobs. My battle style is mostly the same, so close-combat and quick dodges, but the firing rate is slower than Twilight and Sunset, so I concentrate more on trying to score criticals in boss battles." She shook the left gun. "My off-hand has a Burn DoT effect that lasts for fifteen seconds."

"I have a similar issue with my plasma sniper rifle," Nightmare Moon said, lifting the weapon up so the others could look at it. "It has a lower resistance than my sniper rifle, and a slower firing rate... however, as an opening shot, I double my chances for a critical hit. This specific rifle is a rare drop that grants 4x unlike the usual 2x damage on CRIT, and I have been known to one-shot high level mobs with it." She nodded and smiled at the appreciative whistles and murmurs, then patted the plasma sword on her belt. "For close combat I still have this. Needless to say, I work better at long distance and I brought a grappling hook to get some height advantage in areas where that is possible."

"I use a scatter-gun," Surgeon spoke next. "Pretty similar to a shotgun, so I need to get close for effectiveness, except it's a highly damaging laser weapon. It has a high chance of Blind for 10 seconds. If I lose it, I have a second one, just no effect. Like Mirage, I'm close combat."

The Lion pulled out a minigun with one third of the barrels glowing red, one third green and one third blue. "I present to you Sara Jane," he said as the others stared. "I made this beauty myself. The long-distance aiming is abysmal, but it was never intended for precise shooting. Its shooting speed is equal to a regular minigun, but it shoots laser, plasma and electricity blasts. The other downside is that it requires a lot of bullets, but... I came prepared." He smirked.

"Dude. That's just... crazy." Thunderbird muttered.

"Wait until you see it in action," The Lion replied with a grin. "But I use it as my ace-in-the-hole for boss battles. For most of the raid I'll be using this laser heavy assault rifle. So mid-range combat for me, then static."

Thunderbird nodded, and pulled out two laser submachine guns. "I love the ALOK-AR," he said. "It's a shame I can't use it myself with my style. I have two LT-SMGs, nothing fancy. I'd say I'm still better off mid-range."

"Cazando mobs, I use either my plasma rifle, or my laser assault rifle," Coyote said with a shrug. "It depends on the battle. I complement either with plasma, pyro and cryo grenades."

Heavy Collar nodded. "I have a fast-action plasma shotgun for close encounters, but when mob hunting in a team, I usually stay mid-distance to serve as support. I have smoke grenades, flash grenades, cryo, pyro, shock and concussion grenades as well as a healthy amount of stimpacks and medikits. I also have a few grenades that give party members in the area of effect boosts to speed, perception and dodge."

Surgeon nodded. "Then I believe we have our marching order. Mirage and I will scout, Coyote, Collar and Thunderbird stay in the middle and Lion and Moon keep the back. Whenever we have encounters Mirage and I will draw their aggro while everyone else gets into position. Everyone keep an eye out for Collar so that he doesn't have to abandon his support roll, understood?"

"Sounds good!"

"Va que va!"

"Let's do this!"

Twilight and Lemon Zest watched the group get up and head up towards the dungeon.

"Aww, they're adorable," Lemon Zest gushed. "And they sound so serious about this!"

Twilight rolled her eyes. "It is! It's very involved, maybe one day you should try it!"

Lemon twirled and sat on Twilight's lap, wrapping her arms around her. "Only if you teach me."

Twilight chuckled nervously.

"Didn't you say you used to play?"

"I-I did, but there's a lot going on an—"

"Don't you want to play with me?" Lemon Zest asked rubbing her nose against Twilight's. "I want to play with you. And I have the best songs for it."

"Meep!"

"Am I interrupting something?" a voice asked.

Both girls jumped to their feet and turned to stare at the door, faces red.

"P-professor Sombra!" Twilight forced a grin. "What a pleasant surprise!"

Chuckling, Sombra made his way into the room, glancing at the equipment and readings. "How goes your investigation, Miss Sparkle?"

Twilight cleared her throat. "It goes well professor, right now Sunset is doing a high-involvement activity that is testing low-input levels of our modifications to the server. The readings of the Seed's reaction to such small amounts should help us pinpoint better ways to clear up garbage and random spikes from the analysis and allow us to have a much more precise method of implementation."

Sombra nodded, glancing at the screens and smiling. "Very well, it seems everything is in order and the progress acceptable to the loss of some of my extra equipment. Carry on, I'll close the door behind me."

The pair of girls waited until the door was shut before sharing a look.

"I'm so embarrassed," Zest muttered.

"I have no idea what the stuff I told him even means. I think it made sense... maybe..."

The looked at each other and giggled nervously. Lemon Zest casually made her way to the door and peeked outside before closing it and locking it.

A sudden "Ding!" made them both jump, then chuckle when they realized it was the popcorn.

"I guess I can't complain. Alone, in a room..." Lemon Zest said, watching a nervous Twilight get the popcorn and drinks ready to partake while they watched the monster raid. "Monster movie on screen, comatose body of friend lying in the only bed in the room... cute-as-a-button girlfriend to share the experience with... and count dracula randomly visiting." She grinned. "What's not to like?"

She dodged the popcorn Twilight threw.

Chapter 17: Premonition

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 17: Premonition

Pulling into her driveway, Celestia noticed that Luna's motorcycle was already parked inside. Her sister had wasted no time in escaping school to head back home, and that could only mean one thing... well, possibly two, but she was fairly sure her sister hadn't declared her intentions to Sunset yet, so that only left one option.

Gun Gale Online.

Ever since discovering how Sunset also played that game, Luna had taken back to playing with renewed vigor, and Celestia thought it was the cutest thing that she wanted to impress her possible-girlfriend in their mutual hobby.

"Luna! I'm home!" Celestia announced, closing the door behind her. When no reply came, she smiled and shook her head. She put down the keys and her purse and made her way upstairs, peeking into her sister's room and confirming that Luna was Full-Diving like the adorkable gamer she was.

Celestia went to her room and got into more comfortable clothes before running down to the kitchen to make herself a mug of hot cocoa. Grabbing some snacks, she put them all in a tray and made her way to Luna's room. "You really like playing these games, don't you?" she muttered, taking a seat on the computer and turning the screen on. "How about we take a look at how you're doing?"

Being familiar with the interface thanks to several demonstrations by Luna on how cool the whole thing was, had Celestia set up to enjoy the show in less than a minute.

A couple of clicks brought up an aerial view of her sister's squad as they battled a hoard of dog-sized beetles. It was almost educational, in it's own way, to see how well-coordinated the group was. They covered each other's backs and were actively aware of everyone's positions.

Celestia had attempted to convince Luna to taking up coaching one of the school teams. Surely with this constant exposure to tactics and thinking on her feet (so to speak), she would excel at leading young, promising athletes to victory.

Not only would it make the school look better, but more importantly, Luna would have had a living, breathing example of how she could influence students to achieve something amazing beyond academic excellence.

Luna had—of course—refused. Which was slightly disappointing, but Celestia knew better than to push the issue. It had, however, led to Luna's involvement with the music department, and behind-the-scenes planning of larger events, which had helped immeasurably with her reputation among the students.

Celestia shook her head, and started digging into her snacks, leaning back. Let's watch how your friends, our student, and yourself battle monsters to the death, dear sister.

She chuckled at how dramatic that had sounded in her mind.

It was just a game after all.

Desert Mirage ran ahead of the group, always keeping within eyesight of Surgeon. The caverns had slowly turned into the hallways of an abandoned gigantic factory for beings clearly bigger than humans, but there was a lot of organic feel to it, even though the "living" organisms were for the most part mechanical or some sort of living-electronics.

The initial assessment that the whole thing was hive-like had been spot on, as they had already battled a few clusters of low-leveled rust beetles. What had worried Nightmare Moon and Heavy Collar, who were the pair that hunted mobs most often, was that they were clear signs of higher level monsters leaving behind their minions. So, they had decided to slow down a little and hunt them down, lest they get trapped between those and some higher level monsters they would surely encounter deeper in the dungeon.

It wasn't long before she heard the tell-tale scratchy sounds of chitinous monsters nearby, but more importantly, aside from the rust beetle cluster, she could hear much heavier stomps.

Slowing down, she signaled Surgeon to stop, then pressed against the wall as she made her way slowly to the edge of the turn and peeked around the corner.

There it was. It was a Death Scarab, the size of a tank, able to spit some sort of burning plasma that would cause a lot of damage plus burn DoT for almost half a minute, and it was also armed with an appendage at the head which resembled a battering ram. It didn't help that it was as heavily armored as a tank.

She quickly made her way back to Surgeon and updated him on their enemy.

"Hm, I have an idea, think you can kite it?" he asked.

Desert Mirage rolled her eyes. "I'll have to slow down, but yeah, shouldn't be a problem."

"Good, I'll run back and we'll set up some traps and a kill zone. Wait until I give you the signal before you head back to us."

Mirage nodded. "Will do."

She watched Surgeon head over to the others, and then inched her way back to the corner to keep an eye on the mobs. It wouldn't do for them to catch her unaware.

They were still in the same place.

Mirage grimaced. Death Scarabbs were annoying at best. The sheer size of this one was enough to worry her a little. Although she was indeed faster, the thing almost covered the whole hallway from the floor to the ceiling. Its armor would be really hard to breach and it had the annoying habit of producing rust beetle spawn really quickly.

Thankfully she wouldn't just be relying on her little guns to get through that. Mirage paused. Her eyes widened and she jumped back as far and fast as she could, and just in time, as with a crash that sent pieces of metal flying around them, a giant, crystal spider with a red glowing center slammed into where she had been standing less than a second before.

"Crud."

She shot both guns at the creature's face, managing to score a critical hit on one eye, making it recoil and even lowering a third of its HP, but she didn't stop to look. She knew the sudden arrival had nullified her sneaking, and now she not only had the spider to deal with.

"Surgeon!" she shouted into her radio. "I'm coming your way whether you're ready or not! And it's not just the beetles and scarab! I have a Quartz Spider behind me too!"

She dodged to the side, avoiding being splashed with a sticky web, then jumped over and slid on top of a collapsed column.

Mirage hit the ground running and tried to put as much distance between her and the pursuing monsters as she could. She jumped once more to avoid the spider's web, but miscalculated her direction and ended up stumbling on a demolished section of the floor.

She wasn't fast enough to jump a second time. Sticky, crystalline web splashed her legs from the knees down, and she fell forward with a gasp. She twisted on the floor, raising both guns to shoot the spider again, when its head was blown off.

"I have you covered, Mirage," Nightmare Moon's voice rose on the radio.

"Thank you, Moon, I don't know what I would do without you!"

She was suddenly surrounded by Surgeon, Coyote and Thunderbird, who started shooting the rust beetles, who were much faster than the approaching death scarab.

"How much time do you need to get free?" Surgeon asked as he blew apart a beetle.

"Just a few more seconds," Desert Mirage replied. "I'm sorry, I never saw the spider."

"Odio estos bichos," Coyote grumbled, still shooting, but managing to find the time to kick the leg of the collapsed spider.

With a final tug, Mirage was free and she rolled up to her feet, taking a second to shoot two more beetles. "Leave a couple alive, so that the scarab doesn't charge us yet!" she ordered, as they backed away. "How far are we from the traps?"

"Just a dozen meters down the hall," Thunderbird replied as the four turned around and fled. "But we need to be at least double that distance to stay out of the blast radius."

"This is far enough, let's waste this giant dung beetle!" Surgeon shouted. "Remember that Collar wanted it charging if possible!"

They turned around and started firing, blowing the last three rust beetles to pieces and peppering the death scarab's face with plasma and laser bolts.

It paused for a second, then its eyes lit up with red energy and it immediately started charging towards them.

"Wait for it!"

Mirage gulped, seeing the monster get bigger and bigger in front of her.

"Now!"

The floor under the scarab blew up in a massive explosion that pushed Mirage and the others back. She could even feel the heat of the flames against her skin.

When the debris cleared they all stared.

"No way."

"It's alive after that?"

"Malditos insectos mala-madre..."

In front of them, still moving and trying to right itself, the death scarab lay on its side, unable to find purchase with its broken horn to push itself upright again.

"Well," The Lion said walking up to them. "At least its underbelly is not armored."

"I still hate bugs," Coyote muttered.

"Pinkie!" Applejack sighed in exasperation, lowering her guitar and glaring at her friend. "What the hay was that?!"

From behind the drums, Pinke twitched. "Two elbow twitches, a knee jerk, tickly toes and goosebumps on the back of the neck!" Pinkie said worriedly. "We might be attacked by giant monsters!"

"Oh my," Fluttershy said. "I hope it's a false alarm."

"Well there's nothing out there," Rarity spoke up from the window. "I'm sure if such a dreadful creature does appear, it will let us know it's here. Now, if we want to finish this for Sunset in time we should get back to practice." She turned and frowned. "Are you feeling alright, Rainbow Dash? Are you cold?"

"N-no," Rainbow Dash said, rubbing her arms. "I just felt this really intense shiver running down my back and giving me goosebumps, that's all." She shook it off and smiled confidently. "Let's carry on."

"Here they come again!" The Lion roared.

"How's destroying that stupid nest going?!" Coyote called, shooting at the rushing mobs.

"A few more seconds!" Heavy Collar shouted. "I have to do it in one go or it'll spawn another one of those things!"

The two giant, crystalline, ants charged forward, one of them limping on its remaining legs; the other missing its jaws and antennae.

"They're trying to break through to get Nightmare Moon!" Surgeon warned. "She took down the leader, so she's the focus now! Mirage, you take the one missing the legs, I'll work on the other one. Lion, Coyote, Thunderbird, block its path to Moon!"

"Way ahead of you!" Desert Mirage shouted, running up behind the left one, and jumping on top, making it rear back as she emptied two shots into its torso, and a solid beam of plasma shot through its head, finishing the job.

Thunderbird and Coyote planted themselves on either side of the Lion as ordered, making a wall between it and Moon, who was waiting for her rifle to fully reload. The three of them battered the enemy monster with their weapons, but it didn't stop, hammering through them.

Just as it was about to reach her, an explosion of red smoke made it stop when it covered the area where Nightmare Moon was. The monster tittered in confusion, then pain when Surgeon shot it on the side, blowing a considerable chunk of crystal at such a short distance. Just as it turned to face him, a blade of pure plasma severed its head from its body.

The others relaxed, watching Nightmare Moon emerge from the cloud of smoke like some sort of vengeful wraith wielding a plasma sword. She nodded to them in thanks. "A job well done, everyone, we have reached our objective."

She pointed with the sword at the large hydraulic doors at the end of the current room.

"How are we doing with ammo and items?" Lion asked. "I still have all of Sara Jane's special ammo ready."

"I'm good, for ammo and my personal stash of healing items" Mirage said. She limped over to sit against a wall. "Just give me a few seconds to buildup my HP."

"Given how solid our teamwork has been, I'm only down a couple of stimpacks, but we should all heal before going in there." Collar said, and the others followed his advice, using their own stash to get their HP maxed out.

After allowing a few moments for the stimpacks to take full effect, Surgeon nodded. "Alright guys, let's do a quick checkup to make sure we all have additional healing items and see if we can buff up before we go in. Remember: The objective is to win on the first try."

"So you keep saying," Thunderbird muttered.

"Hmm." Twilight turned from one screen to the other, before pushing her chair back to roll over to where Sunset lay. "This is not good. What are they doing right now?"

Lemon Zest glanced at her, keeping an eye on the group in the screen. She had to admit the battles had been pretty cool to watch. Sunset Shimmer—or Desert Mirage as she was called in the game—was an extremely competent gunfighter. She had felt like she was watching some sort of weird sci-fi reality show, with amazing fights, a lot of strategy and an excessive amount of terminology thrown about for good measure. "They're settling down for a bit, the collar dude just told them to heal up, and they're counting bullets."

"Okay, that gives me some time," Twilight said, pushing her chair to the box containing the book. "This fight might turn ugly."

"What do you mean?" Lemon Zest asked. "I mean, doesn't having magic in there count basically as cheating? That would make things easier, right?"

"That's not exactly how it works..." Twilight sighed taking off her glasses and rubbing the spot where they usually rested. "True, Sunset can access her magic there if the magical input is high enough, but we haven't figured exactly at what threshold it turns from simply sensorial to being able to produce a physical result like magic... I'm afraid at this level, it's simply making her feel damage even more than normal and—"

"Wait, she feels the pain?!"

Twilight nodded. "And that's not the worst... look at her thigh just above her knee, where the giant ant managed to hit her."

"It's bruising..." Lemon Zest looked from Sunset to the screen. "Twilight, I don't know if it's a good idea to continue this with something that can kill their characters. What will happen to Sunset if she dies in the game?"

"We'll cut off the feed if she gets too close, as it is it's not exceeded Sunset's security parameters," Twilight said, biting her lip. "I don't like it, but she told me specifically not to cut her off unless it was absolutely necessary."

"Twilight, this is a bad idea."

"I know."

"No game is worth the risk, you shoul—"

"I know!" Twilight cried, startling her girlfriend. "But she and I—we're scared of what we became and what we might become again if we can't control the magic! I don't want to lose my friends! I don't want to lose you if I—"

She rested her head on the bed.

"Sunset and I still have magic. She can even use it in the real world, and I—I opened a dimensional portal again. We know it's dangerous... but Zesty, we need to get a grip on ourselves."

Lemon Zest took a deep breath and held Twilight close. "Let's keep an eye on the readings. We need to make sure Sunset doesn't do something even more tremendously stupid."

"How are you feeling?" Nightmare Moon asked Mirage, who was rubbing her leg where a vicious swipe from one of the ants had gotten a lucky hit.

"It's going to bruise," Mirage admitted even as the wound disappeared. "I felt it more so than usual too... there's a trickle of magic being fed into me as well, so hopefully Twilight is paying attention in case something big happens."

Nightmare Moon grimaced. "You know there's no way you're coming out of a boss fight of this level, with such a small squad, without wounds. You might be killed."

Sunset shuddered. "If I get to that point, Twilight knows to unplug me."

"Do you know what happens to you if you die?"

"Normally I just wake up in Glocken as other players. HP at 1, in a safe zone."

"Normally?"

"I've never died with magic being poured into me along for the ride besides my natural reserves... also, I'm not sure if my trip home might have changed a few things about my physiology."

Nightmare Moon nodded, placing a comforting hand on Mirage's shoulder. "Stay as safe as you can. I know you're strong and that you have a good reason for this, but I do worry."

"Thank you, I really appreciate that, Moon." Mirage looked up at her and nodded firmly before stretching and giving the others a thumbs-up. "I'm ready to go guys."

The squad gathered together in front of the doors, exchanging nervous glances before activating the doors and stepping into the darkness.

Chapter 18: Hellbound

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 18: Hellbound

"So what's the deal with level bosses? Are they really that different? Or just stronger and more lasting?" Lemon Zest asked Twilight while they refilled their glasses.

"Well... sort of," Twilight said. "Level bosses in GGO and all the Seed games, are a bit more complicated than just HP/MP and resistance. Not only can they hit harder and take a punch, but they also will change tactics after enough damage has been done.

"There's no guarantee that they'll only attack the players that are attacking them either. Sometimes if you use healing items on others that makes you a target. Or if you cause the most damage in one shot, you can end up being the focus of its attacks no matter what the others do. Some monsters transform, others summon minions, others suddenly gain attacks, change their weakness, heal... it's really varied."

"So that's why all the planning is required?" Lemon Zest tilted her head.

"Yep, although when it's an unknown monster like this boss, there's not much you can do other than a general plan. Most of the time what ends up happening is that the team that fights it initially tries to do as much as they can but their real objective is to figure out the monster's patterns, so they can return later... what Surgeon wants to do is not easily done."

"So you think he's overestimating their abilities?"

Twilight pursed her lips then blushed when Zest gave her a quick peck. She cleared her throat. "W-well, not necessarily. I think he's very confident in all their skills, but, well, luck and adaptability will play a big part in this."

"I love it when you blush!" Zest laughed then looked at the screen. "Hey, look, they're in!"

Twilight sat down next to her. "Let's see what Team Surgeon is made of."

The room remained dark after the doors closed behind them. The squad quickly moved to the sides, spreading out while Nightmare Moon looked around trying to figure out the best place to hide.

"There!" she muttered, shooting her grappling hook and quickly making her way up to the half-visible ledge on the high corner. It was just in time too, as the roof collapsed, sealing the room, just as the remaining neon lights in the room suddenly burst to life, revealing a huge hangar-like room made of huge crystals embedded with metallic cables of some sort snaking into the walls and roof, and in the far end a huge beast stood... the level boss.

Level Boss: Arachnid King

Eight eyes opened simultaneously, shining with red energy as the gargantuan creature stood up, revealing that from the waist down it was half-spider, with eight mechanical and crystal legs. Its torso was human-like, but heavily armored with pieces of metal and jutting electronics that still crackled with electricity.

The Arachnid King's arms had been replaced by scorpion-like pincers, and its mouth had two tarantula-like fangs, while the rest of the head was covered in armored plates the same as its torso. From the back of its head, two tubes connected to the lower back, right where the two disparate shapes joined.

Four green health bars materialized next to its head as it roared a challenge.

"Que fea cosa," Coyote muttered, readying his weapons.

"This is not going to be easy," Mirage stated. "Especially for us, Surgeon."

Surgeon nodded. "It's designed for close combat... it's probably faster than it looks too, but there's no other way around it." He pressed his radio button. "Moon, don't shoot yet until we've figured its weak point. Let's make that x4 bonus count!"

"Roger."

"Lion, stay back, hit heavy. Thunderbird, you and Coyote take the middle ground. Mirage and I will do the close sides. Collar, keep being backup. Don't aggro it. Start by tossing us a smoke grenade to confuse it."

"Incoming!" Moon shouted on the radio, giving Mirage and Surgeon a bare second to jump to the sides just at the Arachnid King smashed the ground where they stood to pieces.

Collar's smoke grenade landed between the three covering the lower part of the monster's body in smoke and obscuring Mirage and Surgeon from view.

"Keep an eye out for when it changes strategy!" Surgeon shouted from within the smoke.

Arachnid King swung its massive left claw through the area where the smoke was, dispersing it, but Surgeon was already running to its right, well outside its attempted attack.

"Where's Mirage?!" Thunderbird asked.

"Pay attention to the monster!" Coyote shouted, starting to shoot the thing in the eyes. "She's not dead, or we'd have a warning about it!"

"Right!"

Meanwhile, Nightmare Moon was scanning the area. "Where is she?"

"Concentrate on the shot," Mirage's voice whispered on the radio. "I'm here."

Moon smirked and sighed in relief, aiming up, following the monster's movements and its status bar as her eyes studied how the damage it took affected it.

Surgeon dodged under a swipe, but suddenly found himself staring at the face of the monster as it crouched down and opened its mouth pincers.

"Tactic change!" he shouted, rolling to the side just as a splash of acid flew out of Arachnid King's mouth and splashed, sizzling on the wall behind him.

It was then that Mirage was suddenly there, running on top of the arachnid lower body and shooting both guns to the back of the monster. It roared trying to shake her off as her short bursts of plasma got it right where the tubes connected. Although nothing seemed to happen to the tubes themselves, Arachnid King's top health bar halved immediately, and Mirage had to jump to safety when its body suddenly crackled with electricity.

"Moon!"

"Saw them!"

The shot rang through the cavern and both tubes were severed in one massive shot and a bar and a half of HP went down immediately.

Arachnid King screeched, rearing back at the impact, and the Lion, Coyote and Thunderbird immediately started shooting for all they were worth, chipping away more hit points.

It was then that it jumped, clearing the space between them in a second and landing with a massive crash right in front of them. Its crystal legs digging into the ground sent chunks of metal and rock flying and dust rose around them.

"Oh crap!" Thunderbird shouted, backpedaling.

"Ya valio madres!"

"Gaaaaaaah!"

The three moved back, still shooting, but the level boss wasn't going to let them go that easy. With a tremendously fast sweep his pincer smashed into them so hard, the trio was sent flying back, health almost completely depleted.

"Ugh," Lion struggled to get up. "That thing is crazy! It almost took us out with a single hit!"

"Now you know how it feels on the other side of that stupid cannon of yours," Thunderbird chuckled.

Collar desperately ran towards them, throwing two smoke grenades in front of Arachnid King, injecting stimpacks into his companions and slamming a bonus-and-conceal smoke grenade to cover them.

"We can't take another of those, Surgeon! You'd better think of something!" he hollered into the radio.

Arachnid King, however, did not follow its attack. Crossing its pincers in front of its chest and lowering down so its crystal legs formed a wall around its body, it started glowing blue and his depleted health bars slowly started filling up.

"It's healing itself!" Surgeon shouted, emerging from the dust cloud, plasma shotgun firing at the tubes, but the legs took the brunt of the attack.

Nightmare Moon's next shot hit it in the head, making it snap back and stand up, but it had already healed up a whole energy bar. As its pincers lowered, Desert Mirage appeared out of thin air once more. She tried her previous tactic at landing on the creature's back and taking another shot at the tubes, although this time the damage wasn't half as extensive.

"And the weak point is no use!" She shouted, quickly jumping off and into the smoke cloud to avoid being snagged by a giant pincer.

Twilight glanced at her girlfriend and couldn't help but smile.

Fist pumped, Lemon Zest had a huge, almost hungry grin in her face and her eyes were wide and focused as she stared at the battle on the monitors.

It was a times like this, when she was so into whatever was happening that she forgot the world around her that Twilight counted herself so lucky to be able to see her up close. She could stare into those passionate amber eyes forever.

It was that passion about music and sharing that had won her heart over, after all. Lemon Zest was not just about doing a thing. If she couldn't do something with all her passion, she never bothered and it was a way of life that intrigued Twilight and she couldn't deny that she found that incredibly alluring.

It didn't matter if Twilight knew about something Lemon Zest loved. She learned to love it really quickly because of that amazing sense of involvement. And she had finally found something she, Twilight, loved intensely that she could potentially share with Lemon Zest as well.

"Wow, this fight is amazing!" Lemon Zest gasped, throwing popcorn into her mouth, then feeding one to Twilight, who had leaned back with an open mouth. "Look at how they're kicking butt!"

"They're doing really well for such a small team against an opponent like that," Twilight said, chewing her popcorn. "But they'll have to change their strategy if—"

Lemon Zest blinked when Twilight leaned forward, frowning. "If what?"

"What's that?" Twilight asked, pointing at one of the several wavelengths on display in her screen. It was slowly rising, and Twilight's eyes widened in horror. "Oh no!"

Zest had to jump back to avoid being run over by Twilight when her girlfriend jumped to her feet and ran to the device containing the book. "What's going on?!"

"The input is increasing!" Twilight shouted, pressing several buttons and pulling levers and rotating dials. "I can't stop it!"

"But how is that possible?" Lemon Zest asked, taking a seat on the computer and looking at the logs. "There's nothing here that I can see that might do that!"

"I don't know!" Twilight cried out when an arching bolt of red energy stinged her hand as she tried to dial down the output. "This shouldn't be possible!"

She turned to look at Sunset's body, which was starting to glow with power. The sleeping girl was grunting and frowning as magic visibly coursed across the whole bed.

"Should we just unplug it?"

"Not when it's this high! Sunset could suffer real damage if that happens!" Twilight's tone was slightly hysterical. "Her vitals are all over the place!"

"What's going to happen now?" Lemon Zest asked fearfully.

Twilight grimaced. "Sunset is going to receive her full powers in-game." She leveled a look at Lemon Zest. "With no warning."

The smoke dispersed and Team Surgeon had split to the four corners of the room, with Arachnid King in the middle.

"Brace yourselves!" Surgeon shouted. "It's preparing another attack!"

"I'm switching to ammo!" Mirage called on the radio. "I think it won't be immune to armor-piercing bullets!"

Arachnid King shuddered and four dragonfly-like wings erupted from its back. They buzzed to life, too fast to follow and it almost seemed to disappear as it suddenly blurred and wasn't there anymore to the consternation of the ground team.

But Nightmare Moon had a clear view of what was going on from the little nook she had hidden herself in. The monster was moving too fast for her to shoot, and it was going straight for Mirage!

Desert Mirage's eyes widened when the monster materialized just in front of her, pinzer already on a trajectory to squish her onto the wall. She barely managed to drop down, flat on her stomach as the pinzer rushed past her, but she was still caught in the tailwind of the pinzer and was sent rolling, painfully on the floor.

"Gah!"

Mirage gritted her teeth. 'What the hay's going on?! I shouldn't have felt that so strongly!'

"Mirage!"

She looked up as the other pincer came crashing down on her. There was no way to avoid it. Immediately her instincts kicked in and from a familiar warmth within, she commanded a thick crystal wall to form in front of her.

The pincer crashed into it, smashing it to pieces, but slowing down enough for her to jump out from under it and avoid the direct hit. However, bits of crystal dug into her skin making her bite down to not scream in pain.

Already several grenades were falling around her and Arachnid King to give her time to move, but she was angry at this creature. How dare it almost kill her?!

Obscured as she was, she still could see the large shadow of the Arachnid King, so the moment she caught sight of her enemy, her arms shot forth and she summoned ice that froze its eight legs in place just as she conjured lightning from within the cloud. It struck the place where it was and she grinned viciously when she heard its angry roar.

Nopony messes with Sunset Shimmer!'

She could see the renewed health bar drop completely until only two remained. "Ready for another, you cretinous foal?!"

She never saw the pincer as it snatched her from the side.

The world rushed around her; she couldn't breath or struggle. She could almost hear her bones beginning to snap under the pressure. Arachnid King brought her up all the way above the smoke and for a moment she could see all of her friends rushing to her rescue, firing desperately at the huge monster. A particularly powerful shot made her look to its origin, and she caught sight of Nightmare Moon's horrified look.

She forgot all about her power right then.

'I'm going to die.' She shook her head. "Moon!"

And then the air rushed back and Arachnid King threw her against the wall with all its might. Nightmare Moon's shot took it through the head, disintegrating the monster, but not before it had completed its swing and Mirage was rushing to the floor in an uncontrollable tumble.

"Oh no, she's going to get killed!" Twilight cried when they saw Arachnid King grab her. "There's too much synchronicity! Too much magic input! She'll die for real!"

"What can we do?!" Lemon Zest shouted, looking desperately at all the screens. "We can't shut it down just like that!"

"I don't know! There's too much magic what i—" Twilight's eyes widened and she ran towards the diary. She cried out when magical energy crawled up her arms as she snapped the container open.

"Twilight!"

Gritting her teeth, Twilight ignored her girlfriend and took hold of the diary with one hand, careful not to take it out. She could feel the magic. Not just the painfully crawling one on her skin, but the sheer, inviting and beautiful power to do whatever she wanted. The potential was there. At her beck and call. She could become a goddess again. She could—she forced it down, eyes wide and horrified at her thoughts before she remembered her plan.

She turned and focused on Mirage. The monster was throwing her. There was no time to hesitate. No time to think of consequence.

"Get out of the way!" she shouted extending her hand towards the monitors.

Lemon Zest's panicked eyes followed the trajectory and she dove to the side just as a human-sized portal opened in front of the computer. Smoke drifted in with the sounds of shouts, lasers and roars and suddenly a body flew through it really fast and knocked Twilight over.

The diary flew out of the container. The computers sizzled and all wavelengths dropped to zero.

The portal was gone.

Congratulations!

Level Cleared: Team Surgeon

MVP: Nightmare Moon

Desert Mirage

The Surgeon

The Lion

Heavy Collar

Coyote

Thunderbird

"We did it!" Thunderbird shouted. "We goddamned did it!"

"Congratulations, team! We almost lost one of our members, but we got the last shot first!" Collar added.

"Yeah, but where's Mirage?" The Lion asked, looking around.

The others looked around.

"Moon?" Surgeon called, looking up at her from where she hadn't moved. "Where's Mirage do you see her?"

Nightmare Moon slowly shook her head. "I-I gotta go."

She teleported away.

Celestia slowly clapped at the monitor. "Well done, Luna. Well done."

She raised an eyebrow when her sister suddenly gasped and sat upright, almost ripping her Amusphere off as she jumped to her feet, eyes wild.

"That was a pretty intense fight Luna, I—"

"No time," Luna rasped. Pulling her pants on as quickly as she could and then putting on her boots.

"Luna," Celestia rose to her feet warily. "What's wrong?"

"It's Sunset," Luna choked out. "I have to go."

"But Luna, it's just a game!" Celestia shouted after her sister, who was already running out of the front door.

Lemon Zest coughed and stood up, she quickly moved to check the monitors and sighed in relief. "Love, I don't know what you did, but everything's fine now. Sunset's vitals are all normal and the crazy magical input is over."

When she didn't get a reply, she called out. "Twilight?"

A groan answered her and Zest carefully made her way to where she had last seen her girlfriend. When she got there, she could only stare in horror.

"Oh, my head..." Twilight groaned, pushing whatever was on top of her to the side and slowly sitting up. "Zest? Did Sunset's vitals return to normal?"

She looked up and saw her girlfriend gazing with an increasingly frightened look to her face at something next to her.

It was the cough the clued her in. Twilight gulped and looked to the side, where Desert Mirage slowly pushed herself up from the floor and rolled to sit. She coughed and shook her head. "Did we kill it?"

When no reply came she opened her eyes and looked around. "Oh no."

Chapter 19: Melting

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 19: Melting

"Twilight, you have got to send me back, right now!" Desert Mirage almost shrieked. "What the hay happened?!"

"I-I don't know!" Twilight stammered pushing up to her feet. "Everything was normal and then suddenly the diary input shot through the roof!"

"Didn't you try to stop it?!" Mirage asked grabbing Twilight's elbow.

"Sunset!" Lemon Zest shouted, trying to pull back the young woman, but Mirage was way stronger than Sunset Shimmer. "She did! We both did! Look at her forearms and be careful!"

Mirage almost snapped back, but when she looked at Twilight's arms she cringed. The other girl had burn marks on both forearms, and her sleeves had been burnt completely off. She was singed and her skin was clearly very sensitive to pressure.

Mirage didn't immediately let go, making sure Twilight was stable before doing so. "I'm sorry Twi, I just..." she motioned with her hand to her comatose body.

"I understand," Twilight said, stepping back and surveying the lab. She grimaced. "We need to salvage the data now. I don't know what went wrong, but it shouldn't have gone wrong in the first place. We were operating at the lowest output/input possible. We've done similar things for hours several times before."

Mirage had gone over to hover next to the bed. It was very weird to be there, standing as solid as her real self while her original body slept just in front of her. She looked down and saw Sunset and Twilight secure in their holsters. She patted under her mantle and could feel several clips with bullets under it.

"Oh, this is not good!" Twilight muttered from the computers, checking up things as she and Zest transferred data into external drives.

Mirage closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "What's not good?"

"You've been logged off. The Amusphere on your head...um, Sunset's head, I guess... is no longer transmitting nor receiving data."

"What."

"What does that mean?" Lemon Zest asked.

"It means that it's very possible that I can't get back to being me," Mirage groaned.

"I'll be honest, I'm very surprised that you are taking this as well as you are," Lemon Zest said, smiling a bit nervously.

"I have two guns, my full magic capacity, and the world collapsing around me," Desert Mirage pointed out. "I can't afford to not be calm."

"Wait, you have your magic?" Twilight asked, looking back. "And you don't feel the compulsion to rule the world?"

Mirage blinked. "Now that you mention it... no, I don't. Why does that happen in GGO then?"

Twilight shook her head. "At this point I can only speculate..." she unplugged the hard drives. "I have all the data backed up. I'll have a look in my computer at home. I don't trust these machines right now."

"Okay? But what are we doing with the body?" Lemon Zest asked.

"That 'body' is me!" Mirage growled. "And it's—I mean, I'm still alive!"

The door to the lab crashed open and Mirage found herself pointing two guns at Dean Cadance, who looked around in shock before all blood seemed to leave her face. She stared, eyes wide at the two barrels, eyes shimmering with fear and watering up with unshed tears.

"Oh, crud!" Mirage gasped, putting away her guns and rushing to catch Cadance before she collapsed. "I'm so sorry, Cadance! Please don't pass out!"

"W-what?" Cadance gasped, still pale and pushing Mirage away. "Who are you?! Why are you carrying guns into my school?!" she looked past Mirage at Twilight and Lemon Zest. "Girls are you okay? Did this woman do something to you?" When she saw Sunset, unconscious on the bed she rushed to check her pulse and do a quick checkup of her. "What's going on here?"

Mirage looked outside to make sure noone was there before closing the door. "We don't know."

"What do you mean you don't know?" Cadance asked, angrily pointing a finger at Mirage. "And you didn't answer my question! Who are you? And why did you point your guns at me?!"

"Sorry about the guns... it's just instinct for this body." Mirage bit her lip and leaned back, before pointing at her comatose body. "That's me."

Cadance blinked, looking from Mirage to Sunset. "I think I misheard you. Are you saying you're related to Sunset?" she tapped her chin. "You do look similar."

"N-no." Mirage sighed and slid down the wall to sit on the floor. "That's me! We were doing an experiment and something went wrong and now I'm stuck like this and my body is unresponsive!"

Cadance stared at Mirage, then looked at Sunset's body. "Is that an Amusphere on her head? Tell me you girls didn't decide to play Sword Art Online."

"No!" Twilight said quickly. "Besides, that game is gone forever and the NerveGears have all been collected. This... was just an experiment with magic and technology an—"

Cadance raised a hand to interrupt. "Magic as in 'tear holes in reality' type of magic?"

"And my natural magic," Mirage spoke up.

"Natural magic?"

"I take it Principal Celestia never told you Sunset's story?" Lemon Zest asked.

Cadance shook her head.

"Well, turns out that Sunset is actually a unicorn."

"Um... alicorn."

Twilight's eyes widened. "Wait, you're an alicorn?! But doesn't that make you a princess?"

"I feel like I'm losing the little grasp of reality I had," Cadance said slowly. "But let's go step by step and then I'm going to go drag aunt Celestia to a bar and force her to tell me everything. So quiet, all of you."

She took several deep breaths.

"First order of business. Sunset's body seems healthy, if a little bit sooty, and is unharmed. This is good."

Twilight nodded.

"Do we have a way to send... Sunset, back into Sunset?" Cadance continued.

"Call me Desert Mirage for now... and not that we know of," Mirage replied. "I'm thinking maybe Twilight can open a portal to GGO and I can jump in."

"How quickly can you do that?" Cadance asked.

"Um... we need a new setup and to double-check everything to make sure it's all working properly... a couple of days, at least."

"Days?" Mirage whispered in horror.

Cadance massaged her temples. "We can't take Sunset's body to the hospital since this is partly magical and they wouldn't let us plug her into another Amusphere."

She turned to look at the others, a disappointed frown marring her face. "Not to mention the consequences of all of this would bring the wrong kind of attention to this school, and logically Canterlot High as well.

"If that happens, they would eventually discover Sunset's an alien and apparently royalty, which would create an international—if not inter-dimensional—incident. We need to hide this from everyone for now, but we can't just have her like that without food or some way to take care of her body's needs." She took a deep breath. "How sure are you that you can fix it?"

Twilight and Mirage exchanged glances.

"We should be able to replicate this," Lemon Zest spoke up firmly, looking at both, Mirage and Twilight. "You two are the brightest girls I've ever met. Twilight is a wizard of science, and Sunset is a wizard of... magic. Which is what wizards do. But you get my point."

Mirage grinned despite the feeling of walls closing in on her. "O-of course. And we can always ask Princess Twilight for assistance."

"Another alicorn," Twilight explained to Cadance who had turned to look at her with an almost-desperate raised eyebrow. "Not me. I'm 'Science' Twilight. Not to be confused with my furry, winged and horned counterpart who is the Princess of Friendship."

Cadance massaged her temples. "Twilight, I'm trying to not get a headache."

"If it makes you feel better, there's another Cadance in that world and she's also a princess," Mirage offered.

Cadance closed her eyes and placed a hand on her chest, inhaling deeply and slowly sweeping her arm out as she released the calming breath.

Once she looked slightly less green, she turned her gaze to the girls as levelly as she could. "Alright. Provided that we can solve this in a few days, it's not as bad as it could get. However, if we can't do anything in a week at most, we're taking Sunset to the hospital, preferably the one in unicorn-land so we don't get the FBI, TSA, CIA, NASA, NSA, Secret Service, Faux News, and other undesirables involved, am I clear?"

When they nodded, she continued, "We need to take Sunset's body to a secure place where you can set all of that up, she can have someone besides me to watch over her, and then I need to get some medical equipment so I can hook her up with an intravenous solution. And a catheter."

Mirage winced, but nodded. "I have enough money to buy whatever we need. Cash. But how do you know how to do all of that?"

Cadance sighed. "Well at least there's that. And to answer your question, I had some training as a paramedic while in college... I figured that if I was going into education, I might as well be prepared. And it seems it's finally going to pay off today. Now, let's go. There's almost no one in the building, so... Mirage, can you carry Sunset on your back?"

When Mirage nodded, Cadance looked at Lemon Zest and Twilight. "Okay girls, grab your backups and everything you need right now, I'll bring my car to the delivery bay by the kitchens. Can you lead Mirage there?"

"Yes, ma'am." Lemon Zest saluted.

"Okay, let's get going."

"Um... there's going to be a problem," Twilight's voice gave everyone in the room shivers.

Mirage didn't want there to be another problem. Not more problems. 'Anything but more problems.' Still, she couldn't just ignore the increasing twitching from Twilight. "Okay," she took a calming breath, and put both hands firmly on the back of a chair, looking down and then closing her eyes as she braced herself. "Lay it on me."

"W-well, the diary is gone."

It wasn't until her hands were suddenly covered in foam from the fire extinguisher that she realized she had melted the chair into a pool of molten metal and plastic.

Cadance drove her lexus behind Mirage, who was doing an admirable job at not crashing or breaking the law after what had happened.

If she was honest with herself, she had no doubt she would be more of a wreck. Either pony princesses were made of much sterner stuff than the name would imply, or Sunset was still in shock. Mirage, not Sunset. "Gah."

"Are you okay, Cadance?" Twilight asked from the back seat—where she was making sure Sunset's comatose body stayed upright—"You're not sick, are you?"

"No, I'm just confused about all of this," Cadance groaned. "How stable is Desert Mirage? Pointing guns at people just like that..."

"Well, she lives in a world where monsters constantly terrorize others and where the idea of passing time is shooting at each other for fame and glory..." Lemon Zest spoke up, drawing irate looks from the others. "Um... nice mom-car?"

Cadance's frown became more pronounced.

"She's freaking out, but she's managing," Twilight finally said at length. "Sunset has a lot of willpower, and in-game it's impossible to control her emotions, however she's been practicing really hard due to the influence her magic has on her while in there. I would have been more worried about her becoming power-hungry and enslaving the world again..."

"Again!?"

"Well, just Canterlot High, but it was the next logical step."

"This is not comforting," Cadance pointed out. "Really not comforting at all."

Twilight cringed. "Look, Sunset has gone through a lot, even more than I have, and I trust her."

"That's good enough for me," Lemon Zest replied, giving her girlfriend an encouraging smile.

Cadance's face softened. "It'll have to be enough for me as well."

"You're also handling things pretty well for having two high-caliber guns pointing at your face less than half an hour ago," Lemon Zest pointed out.

Cadance paled again. "D-don't remind me. I literally saw my life flash before my eyes." She noticed Sun—Mirage slowing down and followed suit. "It seems we're here. And we're not the only ones."

Twilight and Lemon Zest looked out the window in surprise. "Is that Vice Principal Luna?" Twilight asked.

Luna dialed Sunset's number once again, growling in frustration when she was sent to voicemail. "Come on! Turn on your phone, Sunset!" she groaned, pacing furiously in front of her friend's apartment.

When she heard the sound of the motorcycle pulling in, she almost sagged in relief, leaning over the rail to see... she blinked. "That's not Sunset..."

Concerned, she ran down the stairs up to the motorcycle and stared in shock at the person dismounting it. 'I know her...'

She ignored the other car that had pulled into the parking lot and the sound of doors opening as she approached the mysterious young woman. When she saw her take off the helmet she gasped. "D-Desert Mirage?!"

"Auntie Luna?"

Cadance's voice made Luna turn and gape at her. "You know Desert Mirage?"

Luna heard their voices, but she couldn't tear away her eyes from the apparition in front of her. "B-but that's imposs—" the world went dark.

Consciousness slowly returned, and Luna shifted under the bedsheets and turned on her side. That's when she felt someone pressed against her. She frowned. Had Celestia snuck into her room? What were they, five?

She opened her eyes and focused on the face of the young woman next to her. Up close, Sunset was more beautiful than ever. Luna smiled and snuggled up to her, then the situation clicked and she pushed back and away, rolling from the thankfully low bed to land painfully on the floor. "W-what?!"

"You're awake..."

Luna blinked and turned slightly to face the other young woman in the room. Desert Mirage was sitting on the only chair in the room and she looked miserable. Her eyes were puffy, her hair disheveled and she was massaging her right hand, which showed signs of bloody knuckles. The imprint on the wall was a clear indication of where the damage had come from, but despite how painful it looked, Mirage didn't do anything but continue sitting in the dark room, focused on Sunset's body.

"But how? What happened?" Luna asked, slowly crawling up to Mirage and taking the injured hand in hers. "This looks painful, do you have a first aid kit?"

"Bathroom, under the sink."

Luna was back in an instant, spreading disinfectant on the cuts. "Mirage, what's going on?"

Mirage sniffed and suddenly she was kneeling in front of Luna, wrapping her in a tight hug. She was sobbing and blabbering incoherently about portals, monsters, being trapped, a diary being stolen... slowly, Luna began to piece together what had happened as Mirage kept talking, never slowing down and repeating things over and over.

She was scared.

She felt lonely.

Her whole world had been turned upside down.

She didn't know what to do.

She was afraid that her real body would die.

She was afraid of her real body living on without her being herself again.

Mirage's sobs and shaking were not stopping, and Luna didn't know if she wanted to stop them. It was tearing Sunset apart and she had displayed an incredible amount of trust to break down in front of her. But Luna wanted to comfort Sunset. Her heart ached with the pain she could feel was consuming her... and so she started to rock a little, and whispering encouragement to Mirage, who didn't struggle and only pulled her closer.

Luna leaned in, taking in the scent of gun smoke and oil and gun powder before pulling away just a little and kissing Mirage's temple. Desert Mirage ceased struggling and Luna kissed her there again, then pulled back until she could press her forehead against Mirage's and could look at her in the eye.

"Mirage... Sunset, I'm here. I'll always be here, don't be afraid," she whispered, almost losing herself in those eyes. "We'll find a way to fix this. Sunset Shimmer doesn't give up, and neither does Desert Mirage and they will always have Luna and Nightmare Moon at their side." She brushed Mirage's shorter hair out of the way. "You're never alone here, Sunset. I promise you I'll always be with you."

Their breaths were coming out in short gasps now, Mirage slowly calming down and looking at Luna with an almost pleading look.

"I promise," Luna repeated firmly. "I'm here for you, whenever you need me."

Desert Mirage tilted her head up a bit, brushing her nose against Luna's. "Always?" she whispered, looking down at Luna's mouth, then up again to Luna's eyes. "Won't you have someone else or something else to do?"

Luna tilted her head to the side, her lips almost brushing Mirage's, but holding back. "Not as long as you need me," she returned, gulping.

Even though they were not touching, she could feel Sunset's lips brushing on hers when she spoke.

"And what if I need you long after all of this?"

Luna smiled. "As long as you need me," she repeated, almost breathless as Mirage leaned in and kissed her.

Chapter 21: Fortified

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 21: Fortified

Desert Mirage opened her eyes and pushed herself up from her bed, looking at the clock. It was still early, but she had a lot to do, and that included buying some normal clothes that would fit her. She stood up, stretched and headed to the bathroom to take a shower. It felt weird, showering in this body, and it was supremely strange to have Mirage's hair smell of fruits and spices instead of gun oil and gunpowder.

At least her jacket still felt right on her.

As Mirage checked on her old body just as Cadance had instructed, she had to admit it was a good thing Luna had stayed over. She had originally just given her bed to Luna, hoping to have some company in the apartment, while she slept in the sofa... but she had tossed and turned around until Luna had emerged from the master room and dragged her in there to cuddle, resulting in "Sleepy Mirage" passing out seconds after announcing her new name.

Luna was gone however, having stayed true to her intention of leaving early to make it in time to school and now Mirage was alone with her comatose self. Despite the strangeness of the act, performing range of motion exercises was a bit calming. She could feel her own pulse when she held her body's arm up and it gave her some hope that she would be alright in the end.

If she still appeared as logged in, she might be able to just step into GGO with Twilight's help and logout from there. They'd just need to somehow do that while establishing a FullDive connection with an unconscious mind. She didn't know if that was even possible.

However, it appeared that as long—as there was an active WiFi connection around—she still communicate with others she had friended in GGO. If the book was there... her few in-game friends would help her find it, she was sure.

Acting on a hunch, she replied to Surgeon's email.

Hey boss,

Sorry about that, my connection reset, but NMM tells me at least it didn't happen fully until the level boss died. Which is good, I'd rather not let my hard work go ignored. Btw, in the logout I might have dropped an item. It's a book with unreadable text in it. Did you guys happen to see it there?

~Mirage

It was too early for any of them to be online, but she cc'd the others just in case any of them had seen it.

After checking the last few details on Cadance's checklist, she brushed stray hairs off of her former face. Was it narcissistic to think she was beautiful? Or was it just longing to be herself again? She looked so peaceful, like she'd never been before in the waking world.

Gulping, she made sure she was comfortably covered, checked the amount of liquid in the IV, and the drop rate before walking out of the room, closing the door behind her.

She made her way to the kitchen and prepared herself some breakfast, setting it down on the table along a stack of papers and pens. It was time to do some magical, trans-dimensional theorizing.

Luna strolled down the hallway towards her office. Thanks to Sunset's place being so close to school—and therefore her own home—she had been able to make it in time for a quick shower, change of clothes and a rush out to still arrive before most students.

Thankfully the cafeteria crew had been already there to provide some much-needed coffee.

"Luna," Celestia called, walking up to her. "You didn't come back home last night."

Luna sighed, giving her sister a disgruntled look. "I am sorry sister, I was needed elsewhere. I should tell you, Sunset Shimmer is not going to be coming to school for the foreseeable future."

Celestia's eyes widened. "Why? What happened? Did you two have a fight?" she ended in a harsh whisper, pulling Luna to the side as more and more students walked past. "Do you want to talk about it in my office?"

Luna shook her elbow free from Celestia's grasp. "No. It's a lot worse. A magical incident. Sunset's in a coma."

The blood drained from Celestia's face, and just as she opened her mouth to ask something else, a scream echoed down the hall, followed by several others.

The two immediately headed down towards the entrance, where several large, reptilian creatures of different shapes and sizes had suddenly appeared in the area around the statue and were attacking their students. There were several anthropomorphic lizards, and worse, a bus-sized reptilian creature with huge black horns, breaking down trees like twigs as it stamped after some of the teachers. Celestia and Luna barely made it to the sides of the doors as, shouting and screaming students barged into the relative safety of the building.

Trying to understand what was happening, Celestia still managed to help one of her students, who had collapsed on the stairs to get up and ushered her in, taking a moment to look at the edges of the campus, where they could see that some sort of energy field had surrounded it, preventing others from entering or leaving. They saw Snips run into it and bounce back falling on his butt and staring at it incredulously before Snails pulled him up. The pair hurried towards the building as fast as they could as the creatures rampaged behind them.

"Celestia!" Luna shouted, making her snap back into the moment.

"Everyone inside, now!" she shouted.

"Principal Celestia! Vice Principal Luna!"

The pair turned to see the Rainbooms running towards them against the throng of students flowing into the building.

"What's going on?" Applejack asked.

"Oh my!" Fluttershy gasped, covering her mouth in horror when Flash Sentry's backpack was slashed by the claws of one of the creatures. Thankfully, Flash was able to roll forward, dropping his shredded backpack and scampering into the building.

As the last two students in sight got past the gates, Celestia pressed the emergency button on the side of the school entrance as soon as he was inside, and heavy metallic security doors slid down, slamming closed just in time to dent from the impact of one of the creatures smashing against it.

It was soon followed by roars, punches, slashes and more dents as all windows and doors on the first floor were fortified.

"Wow!" Rainbow Dash gasped. "When did we get these?"

"After the front of the school was blown up by magical blasts and then almost sent to another dimension," Celestia said, staring at the creatures outside through one of the small viewing holes. She turned to look at Luna. "But they're too strong, even for this. And they're ignoring everything trying to get in here."

"Maybe we can use our power to protect the school?" Pinkie asked.

"You can't blast them?" Celestia asked, looking at the group of girls.

Rarity shook her head. "I'm afraid not, Principal. Sunset Shimmer is the one that channels our magic, and she's not here. But we have been practicing on how to project an aura that could serve as a buffer."

"Well, where is Sunset?" Flash asked, looking around. Most of the other students also searched for their missing classmate. "Or did Rainbow Dash finally manage to chase her away?"

Rainbow Dash grabbed his shirt. "Why, you—"

"We all saw you argue," Flash growled at her, "and from what I heard, she had every reason to be pissed."

Celestia calmly grabbed Rainbow Dash's raised fist and gave her a warning look before turning to stare down Flash. She hesitated. "I'm afraid Sunset Shimmer can't help us now," she said to the gathered students, trying to think through the sounds of the creatures outside. "Any ideas, Luna?"

Luna shook her head. "I recognize them... they're lizardmen and behemoths. But we don't have any weapons to fight them..." she trailed off, pulling her phone and turning away from the others.

"We can fight them!" one of the other students shouted suddenly. "We survived zombification twice, giant man-eating plants and dimensional rifts!"

Celestia was frowning at her sister, but when she heard that, she smiled a little, wincing as the metal behind her screeched as claws scratched against it. "And that's very brave, my student, but these creatures won't want to control you. They're more the slashing and smashing type."

"They look like monsters out of a video game!" another student said. "But how's that possible?"

"We don't know. They might just come from a place that has creatures that look like them," Principal Celestia said. "I don't think they're from Twilight's world, and neither she nor Sunset are around to help. We need to plan. The doors won't hold forever..." she trailed off when, as if to prove her point, the large door behind her bent in slightly and one of the metal coverings on the windows was also suddenly pounded upon.

"The priority here is to keep everyone safe. I want everyone to go to the classrooms on the second floor closest to the emergency exits there. Lizardmen can't jump that high and the doors to each classroom are reinforced. Most likely, if the creatures manage to get in, they'll all rush inside, and we can evacuate while they're busy down here."

The students murmured to each other, unconvinced and Celestia turned to look at Luna, who sighed and put her phone down. "We have help on the way," Luna said, making everyone fall silent.

Celestia frowned. "Who?"

Luna shifted uncomfortably.

"Luna?" Celestia asked. "Did you call the police? I don't think they could help much."

"Students, please make your way upstairs," Luna called out. "Rainbooms, you can start trying to lift a shield around the school, but if it's too strenuous, limit it to students and staff in a smaller room.

The other students followed and soon only Celestia and Luna were left on the ground level.

"Luna?"

"It's a long story, sister. Let's talk about it after the current crisis is over."

Desert Mirage groaned and crumpled another paper before throwing it into the growing pile around the trash can.

"Of course not, idiot," she chided herself, drawing a huge X on top of the next page. "The theumatic input into the matrix can't be the polar opposite of the aethereal channel's aura if I don't want them to explode! A physics student could tell you that! Ugh."

Mirage sipped her tea and glared at the diagram as if it could somehow fix itself. "But the calculations all point towards this. This is so annoying!" She threw her hands up in the air. "It's so annoying I'm talking to myself!" She sighed and pushed the papers away.

She almost gasped in relief when the phone started ringing. When she saw it was Luna, she blinked in confusion. "Hello, Luna? Aren't you at school?"

"Mirage," the voice on the other side of the phone faded for a moment behind the sound of heavy pounding. "We need your help. There's GGO monsters attacking the school... and there's some sort of barrier around it!"

Mirage felt the blood drain from her face. "Oh no." She stood up so fast her chair practically flew back and she was already grabbing her equipment before she thought of responding. "I'm on my way."

She ran out of the apartment and didn't even bother to go down the stairs, jumping over the rail with nary a thought. Magic flowed through her body just like it had inside GGO, and she barely felt the impact as she landed on the floor. In less than a second she was already starting her motorcycle and rushing out.

The flow of power increased as she weaved through the traffic towards Canterlot High, but even as she felt the building energy, she dared not slow down. Fear-fueled scenarios played in her mind of monsters tearing into the school, hurting and even killing people. Her thoughts went to Luna and her friends. They were all foolish enough to think they could fight them. The Rainbooms would try and confront them directly, but their magic wouldn't be focused enough for combat without her.

Luna would think of some crazy idea based on her experience fighting the monsters in the game, but she didn't have any weapons. She wouldn't be able to stop them, and probably would get killed in some foolhardy attempt to save everyone else.

She half expected to see the place on fire when she slid to a stop in front of Canterlot High and took stock of the situation.

As Luna had said, the whole school was covered by some sort of multi-faceted domed barrier, and within it, she could see large shadows moving and trying to break into the school.

Mirage touched the energy dome. It wasn't magic, but it felt familiar. She frowned, then her eyes widened when it clicked: It was an energy force field like the ones in certain dungeons of GGO. They were tough, but not indestructible.

She could try to bring the whole thing down with her magic, but then that would allow the monsters to escape, and that would require chasing them down all over the city, risking people getting injured or worse.

Bringing up her menu, she scrolled down until she found the item she needed: a small explosive that she attached to a facet large enough to let her through.

"Hey! I can see someone trying to get in!" Pinkie shouted, pointing down to the barrier, where a figure was doing something.

"Well, Ah doubt they'll be any help," Applejack muttered.

"What's going on?" Principal Celestia asked, walking into the room with Luna and drawing all the student's attention to them.

"Pinky saw someone outside the barrier," Rarity explained.

Luna and Celestia made their way to the window and looked out, alongside the other students. They gasped when an explosion of some sort blew a part of the dome, and the figure quickly jumped through before the barrier closed behind them.

"Wow! Who is that?" Rainbow Dash asked as the gray-wearing stranger dashed towards the school, pulling out two guns.

Celestia gasped. "Luna! You called Desert Mirage?! But how?"

The students gasped as one of the larger lizards, a lumbering brute with huge claws, tried to swipe at her, but Desert Mirage had jumped up, landing on its outstretched arm and shooting both guns straight at its face, making several students shout in shock.

Mirage looked up at the window and made frantic moves, before jumping back to dodge another sweep.

"Alright everyone!" Celestia spoke up, "Crouch down and move away from the windows! We don't want any stray bullets hitting you!"

"But, Principal!"

"Rainbow Dash," Celestia looked at the young girl with a frown. "I realize you want to see the 'action' but your lives are my responsibility and Luna's and that of every teacher here. I can't have you staying close to the windows where an accident might happen."

"But didn't you say the windows were reinforced? They should stop a bullet, right?" another student asked.

"Not from those guns," Luna muttered, making a few students look at her in confusion. Luna shook her head. "This is not a game, and we still don't know if your powers will be needed to keep the monsters at bay, Rainbow Dash. Now, move!"

The students complied, while Luna stayed behind, taking cover behind a wall next to the window and peeking cautiously outside.

Mirage was moving as she always did in Gun Gale Online, and the behemoth had disintegrated just as if they were in the game after several more shots into its body, leaving no trace behind. The rest of the lizards were a lot weaker than their larger cousin, and it only took a couple of shots each to bring them all down.

She lost sight of Mirage for a few minutes, and she almost jumped when she felt her cell phone vibrate with a new message.

School clear. Will bring down barrier.

She sighed in relief and made her way to her sister, whispering into her ear, "It's over, she took them all down."

Celestia gave her a look before turning to look at the students and teachers. "I want all teachers to make sure all students are present. Any missing students need to be reported immediately to me so we can follow up and make sure they were not caught out there. I'll make an announcement on the intercom and then we'll all go home."

Most of the students nodded, following their teachers out of the room as soon as Celestia had pulled Luna out with her.

Rainbow Dash and the others, however, stayed behind, looking out the window as the barrier shimmered and died.

"Is it me, or was that really weird?" she finally asked.

"Sugarcube, the lizards were a bit much even by this school's standards."

"No, no, that's not what I mean," Rainbow Dash sighed. "I meant, how is it that Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna knew who to call? Who is this 'Desert Mirage' person?"

"It did seem like Vice Principal Luna knew a lot more about it," Fluttershy said, looking down at her fingers and tapping them together.

"Could it be that they contacted a professional monster hunter of some sort after the last few magical incidents?" Rarity asked.

"Oh! Ooh! Maybe this Mirage is a Slayer like my friend Buffy in California!"

"Ah doubt it, Pinkie," Applejack said. "If they had, why would Principal Celestia be surprised to see her?"

"Well, I don't know about you girls, but I want to find out!" Rainbow Dash stated. They all cringed when they heard the metallic doors begin to open.

"Well, for now I suggest we all go back to our classrooms," Rarity said, heading for the door. "We don't want our teachers to get worried, after all."

"Yeah, yeah," Rainbow Dash muttered, following the other girls out. Her eyes caught sight of Celestia and Luna having a heated—but whispered—discussion at the end of the hall, and her eyes lingered on the pair before a thought crossed her mind.

"Wait..."

The girls stopped and looked back at her.

Rainbow gulped. "What do you think Principal Celestia meant when she said Sunset couldn't help us now? Did anyone else notice how she said it?"

The girls looked at each other, and shook their heads. "Why, darling?" Rarity asked. "How did she say it?"

"I-I don't know how to put it... regretful? Guilty? Sad?" Rainbow Dash shook her head. "I just have this feeling... that something happened to Sunset."

Chapter 22: Cover

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 22: Cover

"So." Principal Celestia tilted her head as she studied her guest. "You look older."

Desert Mirage shifted uneasily under the scrutiny. "Um, just a few years? I guess I look more like I would if I was age-accurate when I crossed the mirror."

"Thank you for coming so fast," Luna said, giving Mirage a hug and a peck.

Despite her frown, Celestia couldn't help but smirk briefly before going back to the problem at hand. "I realize there was nothing to be done about it, given the circumstances, but I'm not happy about you bringing guns onto school grounds."

"I already stored them," Mirage assured her. "Besides, we're outside of the school."

Celestia took a slow, calming breath. "Yes, but I want you to keep them out of sight while you're on campus. Even though I know you won't hurt anyone, I still don't want any of those things on the premises if at all possible."

Mirage nodded. "I understand."

"What I don't understand is how you, Mirage, are here. Luna told me Sunset Shimmer was in a coma."

Mirage and Luna exchanged glances, and it was Mirage that answered, "I am. Something went wrong during an experiment and I ended up transported here. My mind is busy in this body, and my original body..." she shivered. "I hope I can go back."

Celestia took a moment to sort through that, but nodded. "Me too," she said at length. "I'll miss my student in the meantime."

Mirage smiled. "Thank you."

"But, we also need to address what just happened today," Celestia continued. "Those GGO monsters... were they here due to your experiment?"

Sunset cringed. "I'm not sure. I don't see how, given that we pulled the plug on it. Twilight was going to go over the data today, but that's literally just going through what was recorded on the hard drives, nothing involving a connection to GGO at all, much less opening any portals."

"Then how did this happen?" Luna asked, motioning to the torn-up grounds.

"I-I don't know." Mirage looked over the grounds worriedly. "Maybe the statue's magic is linked somehow to GGO?" She paused and shook her head. "But that doesn't make sense, since it's a one-way connection to Equestria that only activates when Princess Twilight wishes it to."

"Is it only connected to Equestria?" Principal Celestia asked. "Are you sure?"

Mirage nodded. "Very. There's no reason for it to connect to GGO, it would need to be re-directed there, but I can't imagine how it would be done. I'd ask Princess Twilight, but I have no way of contacting anypony in Equestria with my diary gone."

Luna's eyes widened. "Wait... but I do."

Celestia and Mirage turned to stare at her.

"Luna, please tell me you didn't go into another universe when you ran away years ago, became the student of some magical being and also brought a journal to communicate with them," Celestia said, her tone half-joking, half-worried.

"N-no! Nothing like that!" Luna rolled her eyes. "When Sunset came back, she gave me a letter from Princess Luna, and it has a magical clasp that allows me to talk to her."

Mirage blinked. "Well. That solves one problem."

"Partially," Principal Celestia said, "because if you're right, and the statue has nothing to do with it, why did those monsters come here at all?"

"I don't know," Mirage admitted. "But I need to talk to Twilight, she's the only person I know who could have any idea."

Celestia nodded. "You do that, in the meantime Luna and I need to figure out what to tell the students and staff about you."

Mirage cringed. "Can't you just tell them I'm some sort of Slayer, like Pinkie's friend?"

"That won't work," Celestia replied, rolling her eyes. "For one, I have no idea who you speak of, or what a Slayer is in the first place. And secondly, the students saw Luna call you. I wouldn't be surprised if they suspect we know all about you by now."

Luna nodded a little reluctantly. "We need to think of something fast, we did say we'd update everyone."

"Maybe we should tell them that Mirage here is a monster hunter we hired to protect the school," Celestia muttered. "That way we could have Mirage around. But I worry that that might create too much contact with the students and I don't want you encouraging gunslinging."

Luna rubbed her temples. "As it is we're going to have to get the staff to pay attention and have talks with their classes about safety and gun control."

Mirage bit her lip. "I'm sorry. I never thought about even owning one gun outside of the video game and now I'm carrying several."

"Well, at least they're still just your game guns, unless you decided to stop on the way here to purchase weapons," Celestia sighed. "I think we'll have to get a bit creative with what we tell the students for now. We'll go with you being a certified, law-abiding Monster Hunter with a license and ties to Interpol."

"Interpol?" Luna asked. "Really?"

"It's less likely that we have any students who know anyone at all that might work for Interpol than other agencies."

"But what do we do about her resemblance to Sunset Shimmer?" Luna asked. "She looks just like an older version of herself with shorter hair."

Celestia bit her lip. "We can say she's this world's version of Sunset. There's only so much we can make up before we slip and the similarities will not go unnoticed."

Mirage sighed. "Fair enough. I'll go home and do some research on Interpol while Twilight gets back to me. I guess I need to figure out what my 'other me' does for work in this world."

Luna nodded, trying not to smile. "After classes I'll pick up my clasp and bring it to you. Princess Luna said that it would only work at night, but maybe you can make sure?"

"Absolutely," Mirage smirked. "I'm still one of Equestria's best mages, after all."

"It is agreed then," Principal Celestia said. "I'll also join you two later today, we need to figure out exactly what to say, and make sure our stories match."

The other two agreed, and Celestia started walking back to school. "Don't take long, sister. I'll make the announcement within ten minutes," she called over her shoulder.

"How are you holding up?" Luna asked Mirage once they were alone.

Mirage sighed and motioned with her head for Luna to follow her. They walked away from the school to where she had parked her motorcycle.

"I'm dealing," Mirage said once they were completely outside of school premises. She hugged herself, leaning back against a lamppost. "I'm wondering if this morning is going to be the rest of my life."

"What, shooting lizard monsters outside of school? Maybe you should move on to other monsters for variety. From the way Pinkie tells it, her friend's life is never dull."

Mirage rolled her eyes. "I mean waking up to a comatose body waiting for care. Having to clean up, replace IV bags, do exercises for my old body, and just watch me grow... old."

"Oh, Sunset," Luna whispered, drawing her into a hug. "We'll find a way to get you back into your body. I promise."

Mirage returned the hug and nodded against Luna's shoulder. "I want to be Sunset Shimmer again so bad," she whispered. "I never thought I would want to be just me." She chuckled in the embrace. "Funny how things change."

Luna shook her head and slowly released Mirage. "You know it's only a matter of time before we help make you whole again, Mirage," she said. "We've already seen what's supposed to be impossible so many times. Keep strong."

"I guess there's not much of a choice," Mirage replied, giving Luna's hand a squeeze before walking up to her motorcycle and revving it up. "If I don't, we might all suffer for it."

"I'll see you tonight," Luna said, stepping back. "I'll bring the clasp. We'll talk to the princess. Things will work out."

Mirage smiled, blowing Luna a kiss as she took off. "I hope so."

Rainbow Dash barely paid attention to what her teacher was saying as she looked out the window and saw the woman that had come in to save them all being approached by Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna.

There was something familiar about her. Although she could see her clearly enough to know that it wasn't anyone she actually knew. Besides, other than some police officers, she was sure none of her acquaintances owned any guns whatsoever.

Still, something nagged at her. Little things, movements, pose... It just screamed: You know this woman! But Rainbow's crew was all her own age. Who was this person? This Desert Mirage?

Soon Celestia walked away from the discussion and Luna and Mirage followed suit soon after, heading away from the school and out of sight.

Rainbow Dash growled and turned back to look at her teacher.

Taking a deep breath, Celestia leaned forward and turned on the intercom.

"Everyone, your attention please. Dear students and faculty, we have confirmed the few missing students today were safely at home. Everyone else made it within the premises before the monsters could get to them.

"First of all, let me say how proud I am of all of you. Even the first years, who have had a little less experience with interdimensional magic, behaved with bravery and were willing to stand up and defend our school from danger." Celestia smiled briefly. "Having said that, I'm afraid we need to be more cautious, as previous enemies wanted us for better or worse... alive.

"At this point, we do not know why the monsters attacked. We have confirmed that this was not caused by the statue's powers. While there appear to be no more monsters around, we are sending you all home today to try and relax.

"As many of you saw today, we were rescued by a professional monster hunter. She works in conjunction with international law enforcement and is stationed nearby in case of another attack. At this time, we ask you not to bother her as you might interrupt her investigation. She will not be coming into the school building.

"Please head home and come back tomorrow, ready for class. Be sure to check your email tonight, if there are any developments we will inform you about them. Students, you are all free to go home now, stay safe and see you tomorrow. Faculty and staff, please meet with me and Vice Principal Luna in my office."

Desert Mirage had just closed the door behind her, when she got a call on her interface. Blinking, she went over to get a bottle of water before sitting down and answering.

"Surgeon?"

"Hello, Mirage," Surgeon's voice came clearly through the com. "You appear logged, but I haven't seen you around, what's going on?"

"A lot of RL stuff, Surgeon, making things very complicated."

"Ah, sorry to hear that... but, are you sure you're okay? The logs show you've been online since we got together to tackle the dungeon. It's not healthy to stay online so long."

"I know, I know," Mirage sighed. "I've been offline, I'm not sure why the log says otherwise, but I've eaten, slept and hung out with friends, I promise."

"Fair enough," Surgeon's voice sounded relieved. "I knew someone that got caught up in the SAO incident... I'd rather not have that happen to any more friends."

Mirage gulped. "I understand, sorry to make you worry."

"No problem, just remember that you have friends here as well, anything you need, or if you're in some sort of trouble, we're here for you, Mirage."

Mirage smiled. "Thank you, Surgeon."

"Well, we still have about a week before the final so there's not much else to talk about... except that book you mentioned."

This perked Mirage up. "Yes? Did you see it? Do you have it?"

"I'm afraid not," Surgeon replied. "But you weren't using a book, why would it drop?"

Mirage slumped. "It's hard to explain. I'd go back to look myself, but I can't at the moment."

Surgeon was silent for a few seconds. "I'll go with the others and look around, if we find something, we'll let you know."

"Thanks, Surgeon," Mirage said, chuckling. "I seem to be thanking you a lot, lately."

She heard a chuckle in response.

"We're worried about you," Surgeon said. "We all saw you disappear... and you've been a little erratic."

"I'm glad I have friends like you guys," Mirage replied, eyes going to the guest room where her body rested. "Maybe one day I can explain all of this to you."

"Can you believe that?!" Rainbow Dash muttered, heading the group as they made their way out of school. "She didn't even say who this Desert Mirage was! What are they hiding?"

"Rainbow dear, I fear you might be taking things too seriously."

"Really, Rarity?" Rainbow Dash spun around. "Too seriously? We just saw Flash Sentry almost get skewered by a giant lizard, some gunslinger come shooting out of nowhere to take monsters down, Sunset Shimmer is absent in the middle of all of this and she doesn't deserve more than a 'she can't make it' comment, and I'm taking Celestia's dodge 'too seriously'?"

"Well, I certainly see no reason to immediately assume the worst," Rarity said, eyes narrowing. "That has caused us some problems before, hasn't it?"

"Ah think we all need to calm down," Applejack spoke up, stepping between the pair before fists flew. "Ah'm not sure what's goin' on with Sunset, but Ah reckon us fightin' over it ain't gonna solve anything."

Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth and turned away, taking a deep breath, while Rarity looked down.

"Applejack is right," Rarity said after collecting her thoughts. "I'm so sorry, Rainbow. I shouldn't have said that."

Rainbow Dash's shoulders slumped. "Me too. I'm sorry I got defensive, I just really don't think we're being told everything. There's something just nagging me about Mirage. I'm sorry I took it out on you."

"Yay! Friendship!" Pinkie giggled, hugging them both and drawing smiles from the pair.

"Um, so are we going home?" Fluttershy asked, walking up from behind Applejack.

"For now," Applejack declared. "Ah reckon we should get together for practice and to talk things over later today, what do y'all think?'

"Sounds good to me," Rainbow Dash said. "About four sounds right for you?"

After getting several nods in response and waving goodbye to her friends, Rainbow Dash headed home, lost in thought. There were many things bugging her.

While they hadn't said as much, Celestia and Luna clearly knew what those monsters were. Not only that, but they also knew where they came from. There were so many things to keep track of... she wasn't really one for paying too much attention to the details as it were, and it was annoying to think that she had seen Mirage somewhere before.

Letting out a frustrated sigh, she stopped and looked around, before smirking and making her way to the corner newsstand. Maybe the new air show magazine was out, and she could always count on airplanes to make her feel better.

As she walked towards the stand, however, she became more and more sure that she had seen Desert Mirage somewhere there before.

Frowning, she stopped in front of the newsstand and looked around, trying to see if there was a landmark or something. Maybe Mirage lived in the area? Had they crossed paths before?

Nothing.

With a groan, Rainbow Dash turned her attention to the magazines. Outdoor lifestyle magazines, Sports, Online 'Sports', and finally, airplanes.

"Awesome! It's out!" Rainbow Dash grinned and pulled the newest airshow magazine as anticipated, turning around to pay when, suddenly, she felt her blood run cold.

Slowly, she turned back to look at the stacked magazines.

She blinked.

Right in front of her, on the cover of some sort of gun magazine—caught in the middle of shooting two guns as she faced a much bigger armored guy with some sort of terminator-like gun—was Desert Mirage.

Hesitantly, she picked up the magazine. "No way."

Chapter 23: Badass

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 23: Badass

"Ah thought we were supposed to meet at four?" Applejack asked when Rainbow Dash opened the door to allow her into her home.

"Something came up! Come on in, the girls are inside," Rainbow Dash explained, leading her friend to the living room, where they were all sitting down.

"So now that Applejack is here, can you explain why you wanted to see us so much earlier, dear?" Rarity asked.

Rainbow smirked, turning on the huge flat screen tv that took a good portion of the wall, then flipped open her laptop. "Oh yeah."

The screen changed to an overview of a city, somewhere. It didn't look good, however. Most buildings were completely in ruins and what looked like a bunch of mercenaries with machineguns were huddled together around a fire in a half-destroyed farmhouse.

The slow beat of a techno-music piece was starting to build up.

"Rainbow Dash," Applejack sighed. "Did you bring us over here to watch an action movie?"

"Oh, it's not a movie."

"Then what's with the music?"

"Some dude added it from the Mortal Kombat soundtrack," Rainbow Dash said, rolling her eyes. "I couldn't find a better version of it."

A warning shout jerked the mercenaries up, and drew the attention of the girls back to the tv. Several of the soldiers grabbed their guns and ran out of the camp, to be followed by the sounds of gunshots.

The last one, a massive, muscled man with short hair and a gun that looked out of Terminator, stood up more slowly and started moving before he hesitated. He turned around slowly, taking a look at their camp, then lifted his gun and pointed at a shadow that emerged from behind one of the walls.

Fluttershy meeped when the man started firing his gun, tearing the wall into pieces, but the shadow had jumped and rolled forward, avoiding the bullet barrage and sprinting towards the man.

Whatever they said was drowned by the music as the girls watched the newcomer move faster than the man could, and within a second she was right in front of him, a gun pressed onto his chin, the other to his chest.

The video slowed down and rotated showing all angles, and drawing gasps from the girls when they recognized Desert Mirage, smiling viciously as she pulled both triggers, sending the body flying back and out of camera sight.

Desert Mirage was already sprinting away when the whole thing froze.

A pixelated, and obviously edited-in, "Flawless Victory" appeared on screen, dripping cartoonish blood.

"Well?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"T-that was awful!" Fluttershy cried. "Why would they do something like that?"

"Where did you get that video, Rainbow Dash?" Applejack asked. "You said that wasn't a movie?"

"Such a dreadful thing!" Rarity said, "why to even put music on it as if it was some sort of sport event is—"

"Relax girls," Rainbow Dash interrupted. "No one got hurt, it's a video game."

The silence after the statement could have been cut with a knife.

"What?" Applejack asked.

"It's a video game," Rainbow Dash repeated, clicking a button on her laptop and revealing a whole list of videos.

She clicked on another one.

Desert Mirage stood behind what looked to be a sniper, pointing her gun at his head. A little screen with another person, or rather character, appeared on the upper left corner.

The group watched Surgeon and Mirage discuss a couple of things on the snipers radio with the other guy, then plant a bullet on the sniper.

"This... Desert Mirage," Rarity spoke up. "She's... she's..."

"A total badass," Rainbow Dash gushed. "I mean, look at this! She's on the leading team to go on an international battle with the asian servers!" She brought up several web pages on the TV for all of them to see. "Turns out that she's in a team with the big guy from earlier and that Surgeon dude from the last video."

"Whoa there, nelly. Ah think we're getting sidetracked here."

"Applejack is right," Rarity said. "The important question here is if she's a game character, what is she doing in the real world?"

"Well duh," Rainbow Dash shook her head. "The thing they use to play this game can scan how you look. So it's obvious, Desert Mirage scanned herself into the game and practices in it! No one knows she's really an international monster hunter! Besides," she added. "It's not like there's that many real monsters around, so she has to practice somewhere, right?"

Pinkie raised her hand and opened her mouth.

"Outside of California, Pinkie."

Pinkie put her hand down.

"So..." Applejack leaned back on the couch. "We are back to square one, only we know what she does for a hobby."

"Hey!" Rainbow Dash pouted. "It's a start! Maybe we can find someone that plays this game and get them to contact her!"

"Ah don't know, Rainbow," Applejack said. "Ah mean, she's around here somewhere. Wouldn't looking for gamers be like, barkin' up the wrong tree? Maybe she's got a fan."

"Well, that fan would know more about her than we do, right?" Rainbow Dash pressed. "At least we have something to use?"

"Well, it is something," Rarity acknowledged. "Certainly more than we had before, but shouldn't we wait before running out to confront people about this? Principal Celestia did say these monsters are different from before. Maybe we should concentrate on how to use our powers to better protect our schoolmates?"

"It would seem like the nicest thing to do," Fluttershy offered meekly. "This monster-hunter lady seems to have everything under control... maybe we can help more if we figure out the best way we can create the magic shield we were practicing?" She cringed under Rainbow Dash's look. "I mean, only if you want to."

Rainbow Dash turned to Applejack.

"Ah don't know, Dashie, Ah reckon we should follow Principal Celestia's lead on this one. Sure, she knows more than she's tellin', but she's really tryin' to keep all of us safe."

Rainbow Dash grunted and glanced at the last member of the group. "Pinkie?"

"Well..." Pinkie took a deep breath and, to the surprise of the others, let it out slowly. "I think we can keep an eye out, but maybe this is like what happened with Sunset and we just need to keep some distance like Vice Principal Luna said?"

Rainbow Dash snorted. "Sunset would've been with me on this one."

"Well, Sunset's not around anymore," Rarity sighed. "I say we keep an eye and an ear out, but focus on doing what we can to help the others."

When the rest of the girls nodded, Rainbow Dash bit her lip. "Fine."

"And you're sure they were from GGO?" Twilight asked, putting down her cup of tea.

"Positive," Mirage said. "I don't know how, but when I shot them, they pixelated and faded away, just like regular game monsters." She tapped her finger on the table. "I wonder if that's what would happen to me if I died here?"

"Well, regardless, we should talk about what we can do now." Twilight shifted uncomfortably. "I'm not entirely sure how this whole thing happened," she confessed. "After going over the data twice, I can't find a reason behind the sudden buildup of energy. None of our installed failsafes failed initially."

She passed her tablet to Mirage, who started studying the report.

"As far as I can tell, someone or something broke past our safeguards and triggered the whole thing on purpose."

Desert Mirage shook her head, frowning. "But why? And who, for that matter? It's not like we're making enemies here with these studies."

"A game administrator, maybe?" Twilight shrugged. "Whoever it was, was able to access both our computers and the server and that goes beyond your regular IT-savvy user."

"I guess it's possible?" Mirage said after a moment. "Very unlikely, though. This is very annoying."

"It is, but at least we know we were targeted," Twilight sighed. "I can't be sure they were aware of what was going to happen. I mean, not only were we using the book to channel magic, but it was also tied to my own portal-generating magic, which I've basically kept a secret from everyone but you and Lemon."

Mirage slumped into her sofa, noticing absently that she could reach both ends of the sofa now with the tips of her fingers. It was weird being taller.

"So, where do we go from here?"

Twilight bit her lip and sighed. "I'm not sure. For now, I have most of the things we need to try and send you back to GGO. We'll focus on getting you into your body first. If that works, we might even get some insight into how the monsters got out."

"Hmm." Mirage nodded, looking thoughtful. "Maybe. But I don't know if I'll be able to ignore monsters sprouting out around Canterlot High. Why there? Why is the statue there in the first place?"

Her eyes widened. "Wait. That can't be a coincidence."

"You mean the statue?" Twilight asked.

"No, both things happening in the same place," Mirage replied, getting up and pacing. "Everything that happens, happens in or around Canterlot High. It has very fluid and strong magic around."

"So you're saying that it wasn't as much targeted as just being in the wrong place?" Twilight asked.

Mirage nodded. "We need to get a few maps, and I need to do some research," she said. "Maybe Canterlot High is sitting in a crossing point of leylines or something."

"Laylines." Twilight shook her head. "I think you might be pushing it."

Mirage grimaced. "Maybe, but I can't just pretend nothing happened. And there has to be an explanation."

"One step at a time, Mirage," Twilight reminded her, standing up. "I'll go meet with Lemon Zest to make sure we get the right equipment. We'll need to upgrade your PC a little to handle the additional stress we'll put on it."

Mirage nodded. "Will the money I gave you be enough?"

"I'm sure it's more than enough, but if it's needed I'll pitch in, no worries," Twilight replied, looking over her shoulder. "You try to get in contact with Equestria to see if they can help."

"Sure," Mirage sighed. "I just hope things work out." She smirked. "I don't want to miss out on the last round of the tournament!"

"Priorities!" Twilight called back before closing the door.

"Yeah..." Mirage sighed. "Priorities."

She walked over to sit by her resting body and rested her head on the bed. "I'm terrified." She chuckled weakly and looked at her own, sleeping face. "When did I become such a wimp?"

Author's Note

Shorter chapter than anticipated, and way, waaaay later than intended. My apologies, readers. However, things should move faster now.

Chapter 24: Rush

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 24: Rush

Dear Princess Twilight,

It's weird to write a report in lose printer paper instead of the diary, but I need to get this out of my chest.

I'm scared. I'm scared that I will never be myself. I'm scared that if I go back to GGO I'll fade away into nothing. I'm scared that Sunset Shimmer will awaken and I'll find out I'm... nothing. A figment of my/her imagination.

I'm scared that I've brought doom to this place—again—due to our experiments. I don't know who or what is causing this. A "who or what" would be less scary—it would mean that there's someone or something else to blame for all of this; that it wasn't me. That it wasn't Science Twilight. That we didn't break reality.

But what if we did? I might not look like a monster this time, but that doesn't mean I'll cause less damage to this world. Maybe I should leave.

Maybe this world is better off without magic. Maybe it should rest safe in its limited spectrum of explainable concepts. Who are we to bring another set of rules, from another universe, here? I might be the only one from Equestria on this side of the mirror, but we're still invading in a way.

We're breaking through with magic. Unwittingly we're reopening channels long dormant here. What if the cycle of this world was to leave magic behind? Science is almost as limitless, and it's accessible to all. Perhaps there's a reason for magic to have faded to almost nothing world-wide.

And in the center of this maelstrom of universal dissonance is me. Canterlot High... the girls, both from there and Crystal Prep, Luna... maybe I'm a danger to them. But I can't just go back to Equestria either... another Princess? Princess of what?

Maybe I should just fade away but I'm afraid. Maybe this is nonsense, but as time passes and I'm away from my real body... anyway, I should go.

Your unworthy student,

Sunset Shimmer Desert Mirage

Luna shook her head when she felt the car stop. Yawning, she rubbed her eyes and blinked, turning to stare around her.

They were in the parking lot for Sunset's apartment. "Whu?"

"Welcome back to the land of the living," Celestia said. "You spaced out on the way here, sister."

"I just have so many things in mind," Luna said, sighing and wiping her mouth with a paper towel. She pulled out the clasp from her purse. "I hope that Princess Luna can help Sunset, but I'm worried that she can't... and then there's all those monsters suddenly appearing. What if Sunset being here in this world is the cause of all of this? What if... what if she has to leave?"

Celestia shook her head, patting her sister's shoulder. "I think you're worrying too much, sister."

Luna sighed once more and nodded, opening the car door. "I'm just worried about what these new problems mean."

"The only thing we can do when things involving our loved ones go south," Celestia said, "is to be there for them."

Luna smiled. "Very true."

The pair made their way to Sunset's apartment, and knocked on the door. It wasn't long before Mirage let them in and led them to the dinner table.

"We had to deal with a lot of questions today," Celestia said, nodding in thanks as Sunset set down a cup of tea for her. "The staff was understandably worried. They're going to talk to their class about gun control tomorrow, as well as some emergency procedures in case of future attacks."

Mirage sighed, massaging her forehead. "I'm sorry I brought this on you. If Twilight and I hadn—"

"Really, Sunset," Celestia spoke up, arching an eyebrow. "The blame game has been going on long enough. You and Twilight did not bring these monsters here. For all we know, they could have appeared even if you hadn't performed your experiments. Maybe another ancient enemy of Equestria was sent here long ago and recently awakened. Or maybe someone took advantage of your research. Either way, blaming yourself constantly does no good to anyone." She took a sip of her tea and her eyes widened. "This is delicious!"

Mirage chuckled, passing Celestia a tightly wrapped package. "That's Princess Celestia's favorite tea. I figured I'd get you some while I was visiting."

"Hmm," Celestia hummed contentedly. "Luna, when are you two getting married?"

Mirage's eyes went wide, but Luna merely rolled her eyes. "All in due time, sister. Let us not forget what we are here for." She fished the clasp from her purse and passed it to Mirage, who had to shake her head before she could focus on the item.

Mirage studied the clasp carefully, nodding to herself. "Yes, this should help me talk to Princess Luna, provided she's concentrating on it and I'm asleep."

Luna sipped her tea and nodded as well. "Indeed. When she and I met, it was made clear that only in the realm of dreams should we speak."

"Was there any other requirement?" Mirage asked. "Does it need to be placed facing East? Does it need the light of a full moon, unobstructed? Or will it simply do to have it close at night?"

"I'm afraid that's all I know," Luna replied. "It was more of an impression as it is, rather than an actual spelled-out set of instructions."

"Hm." Mirage tapped her chin. "I think that should be enough then, although I only knew her for about a day, Luna didn't strike me as the type to over-complicate things."

"Let's hope so," Celestia said. "We can't afford to wait long, especially since you told us Twilight would attempt to send you back into GGO tomorrow. The more information we have, the better our chances of doing things right."

Mirage raised her teacup at Celestia. "I hear you."

Celestia smiled, finishing the last of her tea. "I should go, there is much to prepare for tomorrow." She looked at her sister. "I assume you're staying, Luna?"

Mirage blinked. "Um, you don't have to, Luna, if you have a lot of stuff do get ready for tomorrow morning—"

"As a wise woman once told me, 'The only thing we can do when things involving our loved ones go south is to be there for them.'," she quoted, sharing a smile with Celestia, before placing her hand on top of Mirage's. "If you'll have me, I'd like to stay over."

Mirage smiled, turning her hand so she could grasp Luna's. "I would love that."

"Very well then," Celestia said, standing up. "Please do deliver my sister to work early enough in the morning, Sunset."

"Um, yes, ma'am!" Mirage stammered, walking her to the door.

"You both try and get some rest," Celestia added as she stepped outside. "And keep the love-bites to the minimum, it's a bit warm to wear a scarf, and we don't need the faculty and student body talking about it."

Celestia smirked at Mirage's look and closed the door behind her.

Luna floated in a sea of stars. She enjoyed the feeling of weightlessness for a few seconds before a glow nearby drew her eyes to it.

Her breath caught in her throat and her eyes widened. In front of Luna, standing as tall as she was, was a magnificent creature. Much like Princess Luna, this alicorn stood almost as tall as her, but this one had a warm, orange coat with a mane made of fire. The wings had pinions of deep red and orange, rippling with energy. This pony also had an armor of sort, deep purple-tinted, almost black, and for some reason was wearing a cloak and had a pair of guns strapped to her withers.

Luna blinked. "Mirage?"

"So this is what I would look like as a pony?" Mirage asked rhetorically. She smiled. "I like it."

"'Tis an odd shape," a third voice said. "And were your behavior not as usual, We might have assumed thee to be a Nightmare."

Both Luna and Mirage turned to face Princess Luna, who was frowning at the pair. "Whilst you joining Luna in this oneiric meeting is a welcome sight, We hesitate to call your current appearance a projection... it seems tied with your current physical form... which is not Sunset Shimmer's. This is most vexing."

"Well... things have gone a little crazy on Earth," Mirage said.

"Tell me," Luna ordered.

After a brief explanation, a much calmer Princess Luna hummed, deep in thought. "The connection to your true self is very strong if your original body still lives... but I fear that this situation will have turned your bond even deeper." She leveled a look at Mirage. "Sunset Shimmer, if you were to suffer any wounds, it might cause irreparable damage to your real body. There is no reason to believe you would simply 'respawn'."

Mirage nodded, gulping. "Twilight will have everything set up to send me back into GGO tomorrow and Dean Cadance will be watching my body in case any medical issues are needed."

"I pray that will be enough," Princess Luna stated, smiling. "While this form suits your inner strength, Sunset, I do look forward to seeing you as you truly are."

"Thank you, Princess." Mirage bowed.

"The other concern, however..." Princess Luna hesitated. "At least I can tell you that ley lines have nothing to do with it." She raised her hoof to cover her mouth.

"Yeah, yeah," Mirage growled, rolling her eyes. "I know it was a long shot."

"Of course," Princess Luna agreed all too quickly. "However while I know not if the statue lies in a convenient crosspoint for magical energies..."

"I was joking!"

"...I do sense a will imposing itself against us," Luna continued, closing her eyes. "My influence in Earth Realm is very tenuous, and available only through the use of the clasp I presented my dear counterpart. The dreams and power of others outside its range of influence is... delicate at best. I'm afraid I cannot be of much assistance at this time, but... I will channel my intent and will into the clasp tomorrow, even during day time, to assist as much as I can."

"Thank you, Princess," Mirage said, smiling.

"But now, another pressing matter awaits," Princess Luna said, walking up to her human counterpart and smirking victoriously. "I see that you and Sunset have stepped beyond the 'friendship' stage."

Luna smirked back and poked Luna's muzzle. "Yes we have."

"I am very happy for you, my friend," Princess Luna said, tilting her head. "It's good to see your confidence back as well. We shall speak more about this at a later date, for now, both of you rest. Your dreams will be pleasant."

As Princess Luna faded into the stars, Mirage looked at Luna. "Wait, so you two get together to talk about dating me?"

Luna gave her a peck on the cheek. "Of course. What else is there to talk about?"

The next morning, after dropping Luna off at Canterlot High, Mirage dedicated herself to reorganizing the room where her body was to make sure it had enough space for the equipment they would need.

Soon enough she heard a knock on the door and found Twilight, Lemon Zest and Dean Cadance waiting outside.

"Hey girls, I thought you'd be here later today," Mirage said, stepping to the side to allow them in.

"I talked it over with Cadance and we decided that it'd be better to have more time to set up the equipment, set up the joint accounts, get your original body ready to be connected and go over the details," Twilight explained. "We brought some of the upgrades for your PC, but the rest of the equipment is in Cadance's car."

"I'll go get it," Mirage said.

"While you do that, I'll check on your body," Cadance said. "I'm sure you've taken care of yourself, Mirage, but I want to make sure we go over all the exercises again. After all, you're very likely to be jumping back in there and we don't want you cramped and in pain, do we?"

"We definitely don't," Mirage replied.

"I'll go help you with the stuff in the car," Lemon Zest offered, putting down the cardboard box on the table.

"And I'll get started on the upgrades," Twilight added. She smiled and held Mirage by the arm. "You'll be back to being yourself in no time, Mirage. I promise."

Mirage nodded, heading down with Lemon Zest to the car.

"She's really worried, you know," Zest spoke up as they started piling stuff up. "She stayed up all night going over calculations and theories."

"I can imagine," Mirage replied with a sigh. "Whatever happens, you need to make sure that she knows I don't blame her for this," she added, looking at Lemon Zest straight in the eye. "She didn't do anything wrong, and it's clear someone else is manipulating things or monsters wouldn't be appearing in the real world right now."

Lemon Zest nodded, thoughtful. "Do you know what you're going to tell your friends when you see them again?"

Mirage chuckled. "I already PMd Surgeon an—"

"I mean your real life friends," Zest interrupted, looking up at Mirage, who had lost the smile. "Look... I'm not trying to be pushy, and I'm sorry if I'm coming across as such... it's just that I consider you a friend... and the one that taught me, Indigo Zap, Sour Sweet, Sugarcoat and Sunny Flare what true friendship is about. We all love being your friends, but we don't want to lose your other friends. They stood by you during the Friendship Games and before that during the thing with the Dazzlings."

"There's a lot going on with Rainbow Dash an—"

"Hey." Zest smiled. "I remember. Just... think about it."

Mirage forced herself to smile. "I will."

By the time they had set everything up, upgraded Sunset's computer and had just about done everything but plugging in the unconscious Sunset into GGO, it was noon and Mirage's phone started ringing.

She smiled and answered it. "Hello, Luna." She listened for a little, before nodding. "Sure, I would love to, but Twilight and the others are already here and..."

"Oh, don't mind us," Cadance spoke up. "Go have lunch with Luna, we'll be here."

"You guys sure?" Mirage asked. Twilight and Zest just exchanged glances and smiled at her, nodding.

"Okay then, I'll see you there!" Mirage said. She hung up the phone and looked at the others. "I guess I'll be back in an hour or so."

"We'll be here," Twilight said. "Enjoy your lunch date!"

They met in a small cafe and deli a couple of blocks away from Canterlot High. Luna was already there when Mirage arrived, taking a seat across from her.

"This day feels so rushed," Mirage said after a moment, taking a sip of water while perusing the menu. "It's been non-stop, building computers, setting up a work space, troubleshooting connections and driver settings, clearing up space for the bed where I'll be plugged in, coaching Twilight on portal-opening theory... ugh."

Luna chuckled, shaking her head. "You have to take it a bit slower, even if it seems frustrating, Mirage. This is your chance to go back and fix everything."

"Well, almost everything," Mirage sighed. She waved the waitress over and ordered a BLT sandwich and some coffee, waiting until she was out of earshot before speaking up again, "I still have to figure what happened to the book. I haven't been able to pinpoint its location in this world, so my only other option is GGO."

Luna nodded, stirring her tea. "Well, I hope you're able to find it there... could the book have something to do with opening the portals?"

They paused as the waitress brought their order.

Mirage shrugged as soon as she had left. "I don't think so. The only reason it worked for us was because it was channeling Twilight's power. By itself, the book's only power is to communicate to Equestria."

"I see." Luna sighed. She smiled when Mirage started to eat her sandwich. "Hungry?"

"Nervous," Mirage confessed, taking a deep drink of her coffee before decimating the rest of her sandwich. "It's a big day."

"I'm sure it'll be—"

Luna's words were interrupted by her phone ringing and a distant explosion. She quickly answered her phone, turning around to face the direction of Canterlot High, where she could see a large dome forming above the buildings. "Celestia?"

Luna paled, glancing at Mirage. "It's a monster..."

It took a couple of minutes for Mirage and Luna to get back to Canterlot High, where they both stopped and stared at the creature that had appeared.

It was huge!

Almost half as tall as Canterlot High itself; it had an armored back, like an armadillo, six massive elephantine legs on its lower body, the upper body extended upwards into a massive, muscular chest covered in thick scales, and four arms emerging from its torso, holding maces and daggers.

Its face had ape-like qualities, but rather than the natural teeth and enlarged canines, its mouth contained piranha-like fangs and wouldn't close completely, giving it a twisted, perpetual smile. Four red eyes glowed in anger as it pummeled a prismatic shield that surrounded Canterlot High, spit acid at its walls and threw fireballs at it.

"It seems the girls managed to cast a shield around the building!" Mirage said in awe. "That's amazing."

"But perhaps not enough," Luna pointed out.

Mirage nodded, seeing what Luna had noticed: with each attack pieces of magic flew into the air, and Mirage knew, without her own magic, the shield would collapse soon. She felt a shiver run down her spine. This wasn't like her previous opponents. This was a boss-type monster probably higher than her own level. One she had never fought before. Her guns might not even do anything to it. Although thankfully, they were not her only recourse.

Gulping, she took a step forth, but found she couldn't move and something had gotten a hold of her arm.

"M-Mirage... Sunset..." Luna stammered, grabbing her left arm tightly. "You can't. That thing will kill you."

"The shield won't last long, Luna," Mirage said, gently taking Luna's hand in her own and making her release her arm. "And there's no one else that can help. They're on their own if I don't act... and I'm on my own if I do."

"But—" Luna was interrupted by a roar that shook the very ground they were standing on as the monster increased the speed of its attacks.

"I have to go," Mirage whispered, leaning up to Luna and kissing her forehead. "I love you."

Luna could just stare as Mirage sped up towards the monster, pulling out her guns and starting to fire into the area shield, breaking through and jumping in before it closed behind her.

Luna stared in growing horror at what was happening. She clenched and unclenched her hands and could feel her heart beating faster and faster.

What could she do?

She gulped.

Mirage was going to die.

She closed her eyes tight and felt a growl emerging from deep within. She clenched her hands into fists one last time before she started running.

Cadance watched as Twilight tapped her arm in frustration and glanced at the clock. "Where is Mirage? We should be getting ready!"

"Give them a little more time, Twilight." Cadance chuckled. "They went out to have lunch, and you know better than to interrupt loving couples."

Twilight rolled her eyes and went to check the computers. "I just want to do some preliminary tests," she muttered, walking up to the computer and starting to fiddle around with it.

"Twilight!"

Turning around, she stared in horror as Sunset's body suddenly convulsed and spat blood.

"Help me hold her down!" Cadance ordered Lemon Zest, who rushed to the other side of the bed and held onto Sunset's body, trying to keep her in place. "Try keep her arms steady!"

"What's happening?!" Lemon Zest cried.

Twilight gasped, turning to the monitor, scanning it for something that might give her some answers. "I don't know! She's not plugged in!"

When Twilight's phone rang, she ignored it. With Sunset's convulsions, she knew she had to act fast, so she couldn't be distracted. Her phone rang a couple more times, then stopped.

Immediately after, Cadance's started ringing.

"Hello? Aunt Luna? What's—sure, she's right here!" Cadance looked up. "Twilight! Aunt Luna needs to talk to you, she says it's urgent!"

Twilight raced over and picked up the phone. "Vice Principal? What's going on? Sunset's body just started convulsing an—" Her eyes widened. "But... there's no way she can... I—" She cringed. "I can't, that wou—I know! I know! I don't want her to die either, but I might make things worse if I do that!"

Twilight listened in silence while Cadance gave her concerned looks in between checking on Sunset, who was not convulsing any more. The comatose girl was still sweating, and her breathing was becoming ragged.

Cadance checked Sunset's pulse and frowned, not happy with what she was feeling. She glanced at Twilight when she put down the phone. "Well, Twiley?"

Twilight was staring into space, but another groan and convulsion from Sunset seemed to snap her out of it. "There's... something I need to do. Please take care of Sunset."

Cadance could only nod and glance down at the unconscious teen with worry, hoping that whatever Twilight was planning on doing would actually help.

Author's Note

Remember to share your thoughts! I thrive in comments! They power my writing and give me W&FF

Chapter 25: Blaze

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 25: Blaze

Walking into the music room and looking around, Applejack clicked her tongue. "So, no sign of Sunset today?" she asked.

"I'm afraid not, darling," Rarity replied with a sigh. "Mr. Cranky didn't even ask if we knew where she was, so... I imagine the staff knows what happened to her?"

"I don't like it," Rainbow Dash muttered. "It's one thing for her to... not like me, but to skip class? That's never been a thing with Sunset. Ever."

"Um... I'm sure that she's fine, right? Wasn't she hanging out with Twilight? Maybe we can give her a call to check on her?"

"Ah don't know, sugarcube, but Ah am starting to get worried."

"You, um... don't think she might have gotten hurt by a monster, do you?" Fluttershy asked.

"I think we would have found out about that," Rarity replied, frowning a little. "As much as our relationship is being strained at this time, I don't think either Principal Celestia, nor Vice Principal Luna, or any of the teachers for that matter, would have hidden that from us. They all know we care."

"Well, they certainly aren't telling us as much as they know, that's for sure," Rainbow Dash muttered. "What do you think, Pinkie?"

When no answer came, the girls turned to look at their drummer, who was staring into space with wide eyes and a paling face.

"Pinkie?!" Rainbow Dash rushed to her side. "What's wrong?"

"T-three elbow twitches, knee jerk... t-tickly t-toes, goosebumps on the back of the neck and a shiver," Pinkie stammered, hugging herself. "W-we need to warn everyone. We need to get everyone inside!"

Rainbow Dash was already on her feet, running out of the music room, guitar in hand. "Girls, I'll warn Principal Celestia," she called over her shoulder. "Get ready to cast the shield we've been practicing!"

Principal Celestia frowned at the bills. Reconstructing and reinforcing the whole building was indeed a priority, but the sheer cost of it! She tapped her chin considering the possibility of not-quite-decorative cannons to be placed around the premises.

"No." She sighed. "I couldn't bear Luna's knowing smirk."

She was about to pull up a webpage to place an order for reinforced doors when her office was suddenly invaded by a heavily breathing Rainbow Dash.

"Principal Celestia!" the girl almost shouted, "We have to get everyone to safety! Pinkie Pie almost passed out with her latest Pinkie-Sense! It must be something really bad!"

Celestia's eyebrows shot up at that, and she slid her chair back, standing up. "But what could possibly—"

That's when she felt it. It was as if the air all around them was suddenly heavy, and a slight vibration of some sort tickled at her nerves and made her shiver. "What is that?"

A low rumble that shook the walls made Celestia jump to her feet. She slammed her palm on the broadcast and called out, "All students! Inside! Now!"

Rainbow Dash had already ran out of her office, and Celestia followed her, grabbing her phone on the way. Soon enough, the pair could hear the shouts and cries of horror and confusion as students stampeded into the building, and seeing the thing outside, not yet fully formed, was enough to almost make her stumble.

Such a creature had no right to exist in the real world.

Rainbow Dash had already joined the other Rainbooms, and in seconds, they were already playing one of their songs. Magic flowed around them and tails, ears and wings sprouted quickly. Glittering light encompassed everyone and expanded, covering the building itself, although Celestia didn't take any chances, turning on the emergency security system as soon as she was sure there were no students or teachers left outside.

"I-I have to call Luna..." she stammered, recoiling when the ground shook as the thing outside made its way to her school. "Must get Mirage."

She was shaking so bad it took several tries before she managed to click on Luna's number. It rang once.

Twice.

On the third ring, Luna answered. "Celestia?"

"Luna, you have to tell Sunset," Celestia whispered quickly, cringing when the building shook. "There's a huge monster outside, Luna. I don't know how long we'll last."

She could almost see Luna's horrified face in her mind when her sister answered, "We're on our way."

"Everyone!" she called out, "go to the center rooms and follow the staff downstairs! It's going to be cramped, but you'll be a lot safer! Stay away from the doors once you're inside! We only saw one monster and help is on the way, but I don't know how long it will take them. We need to keep the halls clear, in case something happens and the Rainbooms also have to retreat."

The teachers nodded and soon several students were being escorted to the back, except for Flash Sentry and a few others, who approached Celestia.

"Principal, we'd like to stay here in case the Rainbooms need help moving," Flash said, getting nods from Soarin and Bulk Biceps.

Celestia nodded. "Thank you, stay away from the wall, though, we don't know how strong that thing is."

That was when they heard the air crack around them and Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were blown onto the floor. They quickly recuperated and carried on singing, but Celestia noticed they seemed really shaken. "I might need your help sooner than later."

A second impact made the girls cry out and they collapsed. Celestia felt something intangible around them crack, and she knew immediately the magical shield was down.

"Come on!" Rainbow Dash shouted as she and Applejack helped Rarity and Fluttershy up. With renewed strength, the Rainbooms played again and the third impact felt dulled in comparison to the previous two, although Celestia saw all the Rainbooms recoil from it.

It was then that she heard the gunshots and a sliver of hope found its way to her, soon to be replaced by worry.

Would Sunset be strong enough?

Desert Mirage rushed the monster, which turned to look down at her almost apathetically as her bullets ricocheted off its tough hide. It was having some effect, however, as the monster's life bar reduced slightly.

She had no strategy, no idea whatsoever of what this creature's weak point would be. But it certainly wasn't its armored back.

She took two shots at its arm and jumped up when it made a predictably slow sweep. This gave her some hope. Even if it was so strong, it was slow, maybe she coul—

She came to next to a destroyed tree trunk. Her breathing was heavy and her body ached all over in the parts that didn't burn with pain. Her vision was blurry and tinged in red with several warning messages flashing before her eyes. Mirage gasped and rolled to her stomach, wincing as she forced herself up and spat blood.

She coughed, right hand fizzling in front of her as she scrolled down and activated several stimpacks. She collapsed, watching through hazy eyes as the only clear thing, her health bar, slowly filled up from the one single hit point she had left.

She coughed again, rasping as her eyes made out the figure of the monster smashing the shield around Canterlot High. If GGO's one-hit-kill luck break hadn't saved her, she'd probably be data in the wind. Her luck wasn't that high. She had effectively won the lottery right there.

Slowly as the bar filled out, her breathing calmed and the pain disappeared. As soon as she was able to, she forced herself to stand up, nervously watching the monster.

"What happened?" she whispered.

She had jumped over the sweep of the lower arm and... nothing. She closed her eyes, forcing herself to remember. Wind. Something huge smashing right into her. She hadn't had time to even raise her arms to block it.

She opened her eyes. The monster had performed a double attack. It was so massive she had only noticed the initial one and it had almost cost her her life. Next time a full hit like that went through... she was dead. And being outside of GGO, the remote chance of re-spawning was as close to zero as to be pointless to consider.

Mirage started breathing fast, eyes suddenly stinging with tears. Sound seemed to fade away for a moment as she thought of Luna, of Princess Celestia, both Twilights, her friends... everyone.

"Oh Celestia," she gasped, hugging herself and falling to her knees, trembling. "I don't want to die. Oh goddess. I don't wanna die."

Sound seemed to return with a loud crack that made Mirage look up.

The magical shield had collapsed.

The monster smashed the front of Canterlot High, ripping off the entrance and half the roof.

She heard shouts of horror. She could see a small group of people right in front of the monster. Celestia. The Rainbooms. A few other students.

'I can't...'

'I can't move...'

'I can't fight...'

'If I do... I'm going to die...'

She didn't realize—until she was in the air, a defiant shout escaping her lips as she bounced off of the creature's shoulder and the dual recoil of Twilight and Sunset was shaking her whole body—that she was doing just that.

That she was fighting.

That if she was going to die...

Desert Mirage would die fighting.

Principal Celestia backed away as the front of her school was torn apart by the giant monster. The girls had collapsed, completely spent and were thankfully being helped up by Soarin, Sentry and Biceps. But it wasn't going to be enough.

Six glowing red eyes looked down on them and the whole group froze, not daring to move. The disturbing smile on the monster's face twitched and it raised its arms just in time for a small figure to sprint over it, losing a barrage of bullets straight into its face.

The monster roared and stumbled back, blocking further attacks with its arms and allowing the figure to land gracefully between them and it.

"Principal Celestia!" Mirage shouted over her shoulder. "Get them away from here! This thing is much faster than I thought, and much stronger than me!"

"We can fight!" a voice shouted. "We can cast the shield again an—"

"Dammit, Rainbow Dash!" Desert Mirage growled, glaring at her over her shoulder. "Why don't you shut up for once and follow instructions?!"

"Watch out!"

Celestia closed her eyes and flinched as she saw four huge fists come crashing down on them. There was a crackling sound, and the world seemed to shudder and glow, but when no pain came, she opened her eyes and gasped.

Before the flabbergasted looks of the Rainbooms, Desert Mirage stood, bracing herself and arms extended upwards, with her palms facing out as a flaming shield of energy covered all of them.

Desert Mirage's form was enveloped in a blaze and when she emerged, she drew gasps from everyone around her.

Two deep orange pony ears protruded from within Mirage's red and orange hair which had extended almost all the way down to the floor and resembled an actual pony tail, fiery red wings had formed on her back and a flaming silhouette of a single horn flickered above her forehead.

She growled and, keeping one hand up, reached down to pull up Sunset. She aimed the custom glock and took several magically-powered shots at the monster's face. Each gunshot was accompanied by flames far bigger than Celestia had ever seen come out of a gun and the monster above them felt it.

It staggered back once again, fending off flaming bullets with its four arms until Mirage's gun broke into pieces with one final shot that pierced one of the monster's hands and hit it straight in one eye.

The shock of her gun exploding made Mirage stagger back. She watched in horror as Sunset's pieces fell, only to fade into pixels and then into nothing before they touched the ground.

"Sunset?"

Mirage sighed, looking back over her shoulder at the girls, who were huddled behind her, staring at her in confusion and fear. All except Rainbow Dash, who was looking at her like she had grown another head.

"Yeah," she sighed, turning to face the monster warily and pulling out one of her laser guns. "Yeah, it's me."

"What is this?" Rarity asked. "Why are you... older?"

"There will be time for that later," Principal Celestia interrupted, hurrying up to them. "We need to escape. Sunset... Mirage, can you stop it?"

Mirage took a deep breath. "I don't have a choice. The barrier won't let anypony out. Until I kill it... there's no escape."

She gulped when the monster gave her a vicious look with its remaining eye, and started advancing towards them again. "Girls, you, the guys and Principal Celestia hang tight... keep behind cover. Don't come out even if it seems it's almost dead... they..."

"They change their attack mode, I know," Principal Celestia finished, slowly herding the others away from Mirage. "Stay safe, Sunset."

"Sunset!"

Mirage glanced at Rainbow Dash, who was looking at her with a fearful expression. "Dash."

"Don't you dare die, you hear?" Rainbow Dash forced out. "Don't you dare die before we talk again."

Mirage was about to reply when the monster charged. It was so fast the others wouldn't have time to hide! She started shooting at it again, knowing it was futile.

Just as it was about to smash down on them, its head was violently pushed to the side by a powerful shot. Several smoke grenades landed between her and the monster, who bellowed in confusion as the smoke engulfed everything around it.

"What the—"

"Did you think you could hunt something like that on your own?" a familiar voice asked.

Mirage turned around in a daze staring in confusion at who had emerged from the smoke.

"I honestly didn't expect to have to pull your ass out of the frying pan, Mirage," Surgeon said, smiling. "But, I guess I'll have to accommodate you this time."

Earlier...

Luna jumped into Celestia's car and turned it on, quickly dialing Twilight Sparkle on her phone as she drove away from the school. She quickly typed a message and sent it before she plugged the phone and put it on speaker as she accelerated.

She waited as the phone rang over and over, and then...

"This is the voicemail of Twilight Sparkle, you've almost reached me, please leave yo—"

Growling, she hung up and dialed Cadance.

The phone rang a couple of times and then...

"Hello? Aunt Luna? What's—"

"I need to speak with Twilight, Cadance, it's urgent, is she there?" Luna interrupted.

She could hear thrashing noises, as Cadance replied. "Sure, she's right here! Twilight!" she called out, "Aunt Luna needs to talk to you, she says it's urgent!"

She heard the phone being passed just as she turned the corner. Just a few more blocks and she would be home.

"Vice Principal?" Twilight's voice asked. "What's going on? Sunset's body just started convulsing an—"

"Twilight, a huge, boss-level monster just attacked Canterlot High. I have never seen it before, but I can almost guarantee it's a much higher level than Desert Mirage is."

She heard Twilight gasp. "But... there's no way she can... I—"

"Listen to me," Luna interrupted again, keeping her eyes on the road. "I want you to log in and open a portal from GGO to Canterlot High. Do you understand me?"

"I can't, that wou—"

"Twilight! She's going to die!"

"I know! I know! I don't want her to die either, but I might make things worse if I do that!"

"We don't have a choice!" Luna snarled, doing a tight turn and screeching into her garage. "Mirage can't handle this on her own, and I can't watch her die! And make no mistake, it's do or die, Twilight! I don't want to risk it either, but either she dies alone, or we save her together, and I for one won't sit by and do nothing. If you care at all for her you'll see me in Glocken behind the Night Raid bar. You don't have to like it, but we're her only hope."

She hung up and stepped out of the car, rushing into her house and up the stairs into her room.

Thankfully, she kept her computer in sleep mode, so it was up and running within seconds. Without thinking about it, she had already slid the Amusphere over her head and lied down. "Link start!"

"Well, we're all here now," Coyote said, glancing at Nightmare Moon. "That was some message you sent, Moony. Para que nos necesitas tan desesperadamente?"

The Lion, Thunderbird and Collar all glanced at her, while Surgeon frowned. "I notice the distinct lack of a certain member. Am I to assume this has to do with Desert Mirage?"

Nightmare Moon nodded. "What I'm about to tell you all will seem crazy... but... well, you've all heard of Sword Art Online. You remember what happened."

The others glanced nervously at each other.

"Yeah," The Lion spoke up, "It's hard to forget. They have remembrance dates for the thousands of people that died."

"But that can't happen again," Thunderbird said nervously. "The AmuSphere doesn't allow that to happen at all. The system securit—"

"It's not that," Nightmare Moon interrupted, hugging her sniper rifle close. "Desert Mirage is trapped in her GGO avatar... but... not here."

The others were deathly silent.

"Explain." Surgeon's voice held no hint of amusement.

"Due to some as-of-yet-unexplained accident during an experiment involving opening portals into another world, Mirage was catapulted out of GGO when I opened one to save her life," a new voice said.

The group turned around to stare at the new arrival.

Surgeon's eyes were wide. "Y-you're..."

"Avalon," Nightmare Moon hugged the other player. "Thank you. Thank you so much."

Avalon sighed, shaking her head and took a deep breath. "The problem right now is that Mirage is fighting a boss level monster in the real world. Real people are in danger of dying, and so is Mirage."

Nightmare Moon looked at the others. "We are the only chance they have. We need to take down this boss-level monster and bring her back to GGO so she can go back to her real body." She looked around, meeting each of her teammate's eyes. "This is about saving lives... but I won't lie... there is a chance we will be risking ours too."

"This is crazy!" Thunderbird shouted. "We could die?! That's not what I signed up for! This is a game! Not the army!"

"Yes, it's a game, and our little digital selves are the only thing that can save a whole high school-full of kids and a friend!" Nightmare Moon snapped. "I asked you all here because Mirage, Avalon and I could really use your help to save hundreds of real lives! If you don't want to help, fine, I won't force you, but you are the only ones I can turn to."

Avalon nodded and, palm facing outwards, she concentrated. A shimmering portal slowly formed in front of the flabbergasted gamers.

"I will keep it open," she promised.

Nightmare Moon nodded and glanced around before taking a deep breath and turning to march in.

A hand on her elbow stopped her.

"Moony," Surgeon said with a sad shake of his head. "Haven't you learned anything? We need a strategy for this." He smirked. "Let me go through first and see what we're up against. You and whoever is following take the same formation as when we fought Arachnid King."

Nightmare Moon gulped and nodded quickly, standing aside.

"As for you, Avalon," Surgeon instructed, looking over his shoulder. "Try to figure out a plan on this side as well. We might need to evacuate if that monster proves too powerful."

He faced the portal and chuckled. "Won't she be surprised to see me?"

Chapter 26: Glory

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 26: Glory

Cadance gasped, falling back against the wall, breathing heavily. "Finally, the straps are on."

Lemon Zest nodded, taking in deep breaths as she kept her worried eyes on Sunset's body. "Will those be enough to hold her?"

Cadance nodded, letting a breath out slowly. "The straps will keep her from flailing and falling, but there's nothing we can do about the damage she's suffering through her link." She tiredly pushed herself away from the wall and stumbled up to Sunset. "Her whole body is one big bruise... two of her ribs are broken, the rest... well, they're barely better. I don't dare turn her around to check her spine right now... I'm hoping that keeping her like this will keep the damage from spreading... she's lucky she didn't puncture her lungs."

Lemon Zest gulped and nodded. "I-I'll go get Twilight... maybe she can do something on the computer to lessen the connection or something..."

Cadance watched Lemon Zest run out of the room and shook her head, sitting down on one of the chairs. Sunset's breathing was ragged, but otherwise normal. No gurgling sounds, thankfully.

In all her life, she hadn't really expected to have to deal with anything like this. When she was a young girl, her fantasies about magic and being a superhero had been natural. Endearing to her parents, and later on to herself when she recalled running around the house with "glitter bombs" shouting about the Power of Love as she threw it at the dog, the coat hanging behind the door, the mailman when he surprised her... but magic was scary when it was real.

How Twilight, Celestia, Luna, the Shadowbolts and so many others could deal with it so casually was... well, scary as well. Sunset at least had the excuse that she was, in reality, a winged unicorn of considerable power... and yet. And yet, thinking about things that way was also scary and was giving her a mild headache.

"Oh my gosh..." Zest's voice reached her.

Cadance sighed. "Oh great..." She muttered, standing up and heading over to the other room. "Zest, what's going on? Where's Tw—" her eyes widened when she saw Twilight with a Nervegear on her head. "Oh no. Oh nononono..."

"We're in trouble," Zest whispered, "Aren't we?"

"Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!" Rainbow Dash gushed, lowering the unconscious Flash Sentry next to her so his back was against the wall. "It's Surgeon!"

"Oh my," Rarity risked peeking over the piece of wall they were currently hiding behind. "It is him. And I believe that gentleman running out of the smoke is Coyote."

"And um... Lion..." Fluttershy said, pointing at the large man with the minigun. She and Applejack set Bulk Biceps flat on his back next to Flash.

"You girls seem awfully well informed about Sunset's gunslinging friends," Principal Celestia muttered, narrowing her eyes. She deposited Soarin next to the other two boys and frowned. "But if they're here that means..."

"That I'm here too," a new voice said from above and behind them.

The group turned in surprise, staring at the woman crouching on the edge of the second floor.

"Black-ops armor, black coat, helmet, blue pony tail, and a dark blue scarf!" Rainbow Dash listed, eyes glistening. "Nightmare Moon!"

"You shouldn't be here," Celestia spoke up, glaring at Nightmare Moon. "You know how dangerous it is!"

"How does Principal Celestia know Nightmare Moon?" Applejack whispered.

"I don't know, but she reaaaally doesn't look happy to see her!" Pinkie piped up. "I wonder why?"

The ground shook again and the group huddled behind the wall. Nightmare Moon, for her part, raised her sniper rifle and kept her eyes on the monster.

"I said you shouldn't be here!" Celestia called out again, sounding almost angry and drawing their attention back to her.

"You know I wouldn't let Mirage face this on her own when I can help," Nightmare Moon replied evenly.

"At the risk of your own life?" Celestia asked. "What do you think I would do if something happened to you?"

"And what if I didn't take the shot and Mir—Sunset died?" Nightmare Moon retorted. She gulped, following the movements of the monster with her rifle. "One shot, Celestia. Just one shot could save her life. I'm not going to stay behind and let her die."

"Do you even know where to shoot?" Celestia asked. "I'm fairly sure you've never fought something like that!"

Nightmare Moon did not answer for a few seconds. "Even if she wasn't here," she said, "you know both she and I would come here to rescue you. To rescue them," she motioned with her head towards the Rainbooms and unconscious students. "All of the others below. It's our responsibility to keep them safe, Celestia."

Rainbow Dash shook her head, watching Celestia bite her lip, before she looked up at Nightmare Moon. "The girls and I can cast the shield spell again, I think. We should be safe."

Nightmare Moon smirked. "That's good to know, Rainbow Dash," she said, lowering her rifle and glaring at the monster. "Be ready to do so. Everyone else lies behind this part of the building. We'll bring down the monster before he reaches back here but if things get nasty, you Rainbooms cast your spell."

"Will do!" Rainbow Dash promised, raising her fist confidently while the others behind her nodded. "Wait." She lowered her hand slowly. "How do you know my name?"

Nightmare Moon smirked then crouched, ready to move away.

"Wait," Celestia spoke up, raising to her feet. "Promise me you'll be okay. Promise me that you won't get hurt, Luna."

Nightmare Moon shook her head. "You know it's not polite to call me by my real name when I'm like this."

"Promise me," Celestia asked again.

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes. "I'll try. Rainbooms," she ordered, opening her eyes again with a resolute look. "You'd better cast your shield!"

And she was gone.

Rainbow Dash looked from where Nightmare Moon had been standing to Celestia, then back up. "Is there anyone, anyone here that is not secretly some sort of crazy gunslinger? Is Professor Cranky secretly The Surgeon?"

"I would hope not," Celestia quipped. "He'd be fired. He's supposed to be watching the students."

"I-I just... I just—" Rainbow Dash threw her hands in the air. "Gaaah!"

"Easy there," Applejack spoke up. "We need to keep an eye on that there critter, if any of Sunset's friends need help, we need to be ready to do so."

Rainbow Dash slumped, but nodded, picking up her guitar. "Sunset and I are going to have a long talk after all of this," she promised as she started playing and a shield formed around them.

"I dig the new looks," Surgeon said as he ran side-by-side with Mirage. "Pony ears suit you. The fire wings and horn are nice touches too. The long hair... I'm not so sure about. Easy to pull in a fight."

"Thanks." Mirage rolled her eyes, then veered right while he went left.

"Clearly the creature's face is a weak point," Surgeon continued over the radio. "But we need to figure out any more moves it might have. It looks the type to have an area attack at some point."

"Nothing so far," Mirage replied. "But be careful, it's much faster than you might think. It almost one-hit me."

"Damn. Noted. Still, you managed to get one of his four health bars down to... three fourths before I shot it. Not bad for a solo try."

"Not worth the attempt if it wasn't about to kill my friends back there," Mirage retorted.

"Let's find where we can do the most damage and leave ugly's face to Nightmare Moon's rifle," Surgeon said, shooting his shotgun point-blank at one of the monster's knees.

"Wait, that's new!" Mirage shouted when the monster seemed to crouch low. "Watch out! I don't know what this new attack does!"

The pair quickly ran away from the monster, Surgeon giving orders to the others to keep back and brace themselves for whatever was coming.

The creature suddenly jumped up, almost hovering for a few seconds as it rolled into a ball, spinning before slamming onto the ground with incredible force. The world around them shook and displaced air threw debris in all directions with incredible force, managing to lift them up their feet and send them reeling.

With powerful flaps of her wings, Mirage forced herself to stop before lowering to the ground after some panicked seconds. "I should've taken Rainbow Dash up on some basic lessons..."

A radio message interrupted her muttering. "Lion here, Coyote, Collar and I are fine, Mirage, Moon, Surgeon, do you read?"

"Mirage here, I'm okay."

"Moon here, I'm fine."

"Surgeon here, using stimpack, but fine. I guess that's all of us?"

"Yeah," Lion replied. "I was the last one through."

"Well then, we'll have to make do," Surgeon stated.

"What's the plan?" Mirage asked.

She could almost hear the smirk. "Oh, I have an idea."

Rainbow Dash watched as the Lion and Coyote ran away from cover, running parallel to the monster and shooting, drawing its attention away from the school. Mira—Sunset and Surgeon would jump in and out, shooting the monster at point blank, then backing up in the same direction that the other two were going.

"What are they doing?" she asked.

"They're kiting the creature..." Celestia said, peeking out. "They must have a plan."

"Kiting, right, whatever that is."

Celestia rolled her eyes and looked around, spotting Nightmare Moon crouching on top of what remained of the roof, waiting patiently. "I don't think they intend to finish the monster there, however, or Nightmare Moon would have changed positions."

"Ah didn't know you knew this much about gamin'," Applejack said, giving Celestia a look. "Are y'all gamers?"

Celestia chuckled. "I'm not, but watching Luna's shenanigans while playing is a surprisingly good way to pass time. While I don't enjoy playing the types of games she plays, watching is another matter, and it helps us have something besides school and being family to chat about. I learned a lot about gaming strategy and terminology just by watching."

The group kept a wary eye on the fight and were surprised when all fighters broke away from it and ran around the monster and back towards the school.

"What are they doing?! They're leading it back here!" Rarity gasped.

"Relax, it's all part of the plan," Collar said.

"Oh well then, that makes it—the hay did you come from!?" Applejack screeched.

Pinkie giggled.

"I heard you girls could create shields... get ready for it." Collar grinned, raising his fist. He glanced at the approaching monster. "Just a couple more steps..."

"What's that thing you have in there?" Applejack asked.

Celestia's eyes were wide, however. "Girls! Cast the shield! Now!"

Such was the desperation in her voice that Rainbow Dash was already riffing her guitar. She felt the magic flow through her and the others and a small, magical dome appeared over them just as Collar pressed the red button on the small tube he was holding.

The world went white for a fraction of a second before the blast slammed against the shield, straining it, but Rainbow Dash could feel their magic was much stronger and the dome held. Once the blast had passed, the Rainbooms lowered the dome and stared as the monster slowly rose once more, smoke coming from its burnt underside.

Just as it reared back to roar, a loud bang from just above them made them cringe, and they looked up to see the monster's arms fly to its face as it disintegrated.

"Well done, Moon!" Collar called out to the sniper, who gave them a thumbs up.

Mirage saw the HP bars on the monster drain almost completely when the blast happened. She was already as low on the ground as she could make it, but it was undeniable, even if the monster had another attack of any sort, the damage was done.

"Moon!" Surgeon's voice came up in the radio. "Now!"

Mirage almost didn't look in time. The bullet slammed into the face of the monster, deleting completely the last bar. The creature reared back, its arms waving, claws searching for a head that was no longer there.

It began to pixelate... they had won!

A pulse.

Mirage's eyes widened. She had felt the world pulse around her. Things froze for a solid three seconds, all of her friends were standing static in the middle of shouting, celebrating or staring... all except her and the monster.

The pixelation stopped as it suddenly ripped in half, dropping the heavy armor to the sides and gigantic, gossamer wings emerged from its back. The soft skin under the armor—which had been the target and victim of Collar's explosives—darkened and thickened, becoming chitin. From the stump of its neck, just as time started moving again, an ant-like head emerged at the same time the arms became pincers.

Mirage felt ill. She fell to her knees, staring at the monster, almost unable to comprehend what was happening. From its design alone, and the skull next to its bars, she knew it was beyond their abilities.

"What the hell?!" Surgeon shouted on the radio as if to add insult to injury, the bars filled up again.

"That's not possible!" Nightmare Moon whispered, still loud enough to be heard on the radio.

"How are we going to stop this thing?" Collar asked, the shock in his voice clear for all to hear.

"Any plans, Surgeon?" The Lion asked.

Surgeon just shook his head.

"Well then, maybe I can be of assistance," a new voice crackled in.

"Avalon?" Mirage whispered. "What..."

"Be ready," Avalon replied. "We've been busy on this side. I need all of you to gather around it and keep it distracted. Even Nightmare Moon. Let me know when you are all within a hundred feet of it."

Surgeon and Mirage shared a look before the former smirked and cracked his neck. "Well, she is a member of XCOM."

Mirage, despite everything, chuckled at that and found the strength to stand up. "You heard her, guys. Let's give this guy a hard time."

The Lion's minigun blazed fire on the rejuvenated monster, glowing red as heat accumulated on its barrels. Collar, Mirage and Surgeon sped around, shooting it and taunting it so that it wouldn't move away, and it took Nightmare Moon a few seconds to reach them, plasma blade ignited and ready.

"Now, Avalon!"

Above the monster a huge portal suddenly materialized. Mirage and the others stared in open awe at it as it suddenly slammed down, enveloping the monster and all fighters in less than a second.

Rainbow Dash and the others watched Nightmare Moon jump from the building and land running straight towards the monster.

"What do you think they're planning?" she asked. "Can they even beat that thing? It just came back from the dead!"

"I'm sure they have a pl—" Celestia's observation was cut short when the monster and gunfighters all disappeared in a gigantic, but familiar-looking portal.

Slowly the air cleared and the forcefield that had appeared around the school grounds faded out of existence, letting the wind, sound of birds and sunlight through unhindered.

"What the..." Applejack muttered.

Celestia shook her head before her eyes widened. "We need to go to the computer lab!"

The transition was seamless.

The moment she regained her senses, Mirage was assaulted by the deafening sound of thousands of guns going off at the same time.

The monster screeched, trying to take flight only for several rockets and grenades to hit or land on its back, causing massive explosions and forcing it to stay down.

She felt someone grab her and she was pulled back and forced to wade through hundreds of gamers, as what seemed to be all of the American GGO server's gamers did their best to waste the monster in the middle of Glocken.

Once she had been pulled out, she found herself in an alley, her back resting against the cool metal of the structure and a worried Avalon and fidgety Thunderbird staring at her.

"W-what happened?" Mirage finally asked.

Avalon smiled. "While you were gone, Thunderbird and I started sending messages to team leaders, and spreading the rumor that an event monster might land here soon... with possible unique items and quest-only achievements."

"Y-yeah," Thunderbird grinned uneasily. "Having a member of XCOM gave it some credibility." He hesitated and gulped. "L-listen, Mirage... I'm sorry I didn't go to the real world to help, I wanted to but I was terrified of dying out there..."

He stopped when he felt Mirage's hand on his shoulder. He slowly looked up.

"Don't worry," Mirage said with a smile. "I understand, and I don't think less of you. Asking for others to risk their lives is not fair to anyone, and even though you stayed behind, you helped Avalon arrange for this... thank you. You two probably saved the people I cared about. There was no way we could have defeated that thing without help."

"We might need even more help," Nightmare Moon's voice said from above them. The group looked up to find her standing on the edge of the building, eyes narrowed as she watched the fight.

"What do you mean?" Avalon asked as the trio climbed on top of the building.

When Mirage took a look at it, she felt the blood drain from her face. "Oh no. How is that possible?"

"I don't understand!" Avalon cried. "With so many gamers firing at it, it should be dead by now!"

"But... its first health bar hasn't even gone down a third of the way!" Thunderbird whispered. "What kind of resistance does it have?"

Mirage closed her eyes. She could feel it. The pulsations, just like in the real world. She opened her eyes. "Magic. It has an ultra high difficulty boss-level magical protection in a game where there is no way to punch through that."

The creature's pincers swept at ground level, destroying hundreds of players and sending others flying, making enough room to start beating its wings. As soon as it started hovering, another portal large enough for it opened above, with the clear sky of the real world above it.

"Oh no, you don't!" Avalon cried, extending her hand. Magic flew out of it, crashing onto the portal and reducing it, but not closing it together.

The monster screeched and started to glow.

"I-it's fighting me!" Avalon growled. "I'm doing all I can to close it, but we need to beat this monster somehow!"

"But if bullets and lasers and explosives don't work... what does?" Nightmare Moon asked, taking aim and shooting at the monster to no avail.

Mirage took a deep breath. She looked around Glocken, smelled the gun smoke, the oil and powder. She took in the sounds of guns, the presence of her friends... slowly, she reached behind her, pulling out Luna.

The modified Mateba wouldn't be enough, of course. But that wasn't the reason she needed it now. Gulping, and with deliberate steps, she walked up to Nightmare Moon and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Mirage?" Nightmare Moon asked, looking down at her.

"Here," Mirage said simply, handing her the gun.

"What, why are you giving me—"

She didn't finish the question. Mirage had grabbed her by the waist and pulled her into a deep kiss. She let Nightmare Moon go slowly, relishing the feel of her lover. "It was always meant for you," she confessed. "I love you."

"Mirage, wha—"

Luna, Thunderbird and Avalon stepped back when Mirage's flaming wings materialized behind her. The blazing horn on her forehead formed again and she slowly hovered up above the roof.

"Mirage!" Avalon shouted in a panic. "Don't do it! You will die in the real world! Your avatar can't handle that! It almost killed you the first time!"

Mirage felt like her chest was being constricted.

She tore her eyes from the slowly comprehending group, and before they could formulate any sort of call or warning, she shot up into the air, cutting the radio and flying as fast as she could to float between the monster and the portal.

She looked down at the creature as it engaged the crowds of gunslingers below it. Ironically enough, it's large bulk was preventing some of the more dangerous weapons down there from hitting her at all.

"Open log," she whispered, and the recording light turned on in her field of vision. "Dear Princess Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Rainbooms, friends... Luna...

"It's funny how life throws us curve balls just when we think we're finally getting ahead. I found new friends... I think I found finally the words needed to mend old friendships... I found love... a sense of belonging beyond a single circle.

"I learned that friendship is like a kaleidoscope of sorts. For each person, each friendship, each love there is a million details that make them unique, and when you shine the light of friendship on them, you can truly appreciate how beautiful they all are.

"It took some time, but I finally learned it. Thank you, Princess... thank you all... thank you Luna... for your love. Your friendship... and your light."

She closed her eyes. "Your faithful student, friend... beloved. Sunset Shimmer." She opened them. "Log off."

The magic coursed through her body, burning, tender, ice-cold, angry, happy... it poured out of every pore in her body, enveloping her in a swirling, blazing aura of magical fire, glowing a deep orange. Her wings grew, becoming light, and more light solidified into a single, perfectly beautiful horn upon her forehead.

The aura flowed down her arm, infusing Twilight and her laser gun, which began to slowly disintegrate as the magic overpowered them.

Nothing in this world was designed to withstand pure magic.

She glared at the monster below, screeching, flapping its wings, swiping and killing the other gamers' characters. Making a mess of this world she had come to think of as a third home. She looked up, to the blue sky, the ruins of Canterlot High. She could imagine her friends and fellow students. If she didn't do something, that thing would really kill someone.

Mirage took a deep breath before swooping down towards the monster, a roar of defiance escaping her mouth as she shot both guns for a single, massive burst of energy that obliterated the monster's defenses and cut through it as if it were nothing.

The monster exploded into pixels just as her guns did the same.

But she didn't have the energy to worry.

She couldn't feel the air.

She couldn't smell the smoke. Or the oil. Or the gunpowder.

She couldn't hear the sounds of the city.

But she could see, on a building, a figure shouting something, hand extended towards her.

And then there was light.

And darkness.

Chapter 27: Wake

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 27: Wake

Two days later...

"Thank you, Princess Celestia," Principal Celestia said as the pair walked the school grounds. "Without your help, I don't think we could have ever afforded the repairs to the school."

"Think nothing of it," her counterpart replied. "It's only right that we help. Between me, Princess Twilight, Princess Luna and Science Twilight, your school should be able to withstand everything short of magical armageddon on a scale far surpassing what happened here."

Principal Celestia said nothing, stopping next to her identical twin to take in the re-construction of the school.

Classes had resumed soon after with the aid of Crystal Prep, as the other school had taken in some staff and students into their extra classrooms while the school was being rebuilt. But as much as they were able to move forward and things were looking up, a shadow still hung over all students, staff and their interdimensional guests.

"I think I should take my leave," Princess Celestia said after a moment. "It has been a pleasure to meet you and see your world, Principal Celestia, but my little ponies need me, and I have eluded my responsibilities too long."

Principal Celestia nodded. "Would you... like me to take you to see her, before you leave?"

Princess Celestia closed her eyes. "Sunset... was like a daughter to me. A daughter I failed... and now, she's gone." She gulped and shook her head. "It reminds me so much of my own failure at making her see she was loved so long ago."

Princess Celestia sniffed, and cleared her throat, wiping tears with the back of her hand. "I-I'm sorry, I know she's loved here too it's just—"

"No need," Principal Celestia said, giving her counterpart a hug. "No need."

Princess Celestia returned the hug briefly and nodded, pulling back. "I'll go ahead then, my sister will follow in time, I think she wants to remain a little longer with your sister."

Principal Celestia nodded, watching Princess Celestia walk through the statue. Alone now, she sighed and looked back towards the school, her mind replaying Sunset's last battle.

Principal Celestia led the Rainbooms to the back of the building, opening the doors into the crowded computer lab and ignoring everyone's questions as she pushed her way to the front. She turned the projector on while Rainbow Dash and the others moved the rest of the student body and staff out of the way to have a clear view.

Several students and teachers, upon seeing the sky clear and no sign of the monster, quickly made their way out, however a large group remained in the room, either curious or awaiting instruction from the principal.

Before the projector had completely activated, Celestia had already pulled up a live feed of Glocken and soon the questions died as everyone in the room watched the giant, mutated monster crash onto the city.

"Oh my!" Rarity gasped, "Look at all those people shooting at it!"

"Just what is going on here, Celestia?" one of the teachers asked, but they were ignored as Celestia changed from camera to camera.

"There!" Rainbow Dash shouted. "I see Mirage, Thunderbird and Nightmare Moon, along with someone else. On the rooftop on the far left, away from the battle."

Celestia stopped there, unable to change the camera angle to something closer, since all gaming streams were really focused on the huge monster.

"They seem to be talking about something an—oh." Fluttershy went beet red. "I um, I didn't know that S-Mirage and um, N-Nightmare Moon were like that."

"Or into each other." Applejack gulped, glancing at Principal Celestia. "Although it doesn't seem to be news to everyone."

"Hey, Mirage's doing something!" one of the students shouted.

They all watched as wings sprouted out of Mirage's back and the horn formed on her forehead. Stealing a glance around, Rarity noticed several dawning looks of understanding on some students.

"What's she planning?" Celestia asked, narrowing her eyes, then changed camera views to follow Mirage, who was now the focus of several streams which had noticed her unusual display of power.

They could see her hovering and saying something, although there was no audio, so more than one person wondered what was happening, however everyone in the room gasped in awe when Mirage was enveloped in blazing, magical flames, and dive-bombed the monster.

The gathered group of students and teachers cheered when she shot a massive blast of energy that cut through the monster, splitting it in half before it became pixels.

Rainbow Dash turned to face Principal Celestia with a grin in her face, when she noticed the look of horror the principal had. She had covered her mouth with a hand and her eyes were wide and shimmering with pooling tears.

"Principal?" Rainbow Dash called, the tone of her voice calming everyone down, cutting through the victory yells like a knife.

Rainbow turned to look at the screen, and she realized what was happening. "Oh no," she whispered, pushing the others out of the way so that she could stand in front of the large screen, watching as Desert Mirage broke apart into fragments of light. "No. Nonono," she whined. "Sunset!"

And just as if that shout had been a signal, what remained of Mirage exploded into pixels.

Rainbow Dash jerked awake when her head slid off of her hand, barely stopping herself from hitting the table with her forehead. "A dream?" she mumbled, looking around and blinking as the cafeteria came into view.

Crystal Prep's cafeteria.

"Hey Dash, you're awake," Indigo Zap said, taking a seat across from her. "Feeling better?"

Rainbow Dash forced a smile. "Of course, wouldn't want our friendly match to be called off because you thought I was too tired." She looked around. "Where are the others?"

"They had class," Zap replied, shrugging. "When they saw me they let me know you didn't have anything until next period, so I offered to keep you company."

"Heh, thanks."

The pair remained silent for a few minutes.

"How are you really doing?"

Dash grit her teeth. "Come on. Don't ask."

"Dash, you know I see you as my greatest rival, as well as a friend," Zap stated, pointing at Dash with her fork. "I might not be one of the Rainbooms, but maybe that's exactly what you need: an outside, friendly view."

Rainbow Dash considered Indigo Zap's words carefully. "I just... never got to apologize," she said at length. "Even when we were all in the middle of that huge fight, I could have said something other than what I did. Something that would have gotten across that... that I cared."

"You could... always go visit her," Zap suggested carefully. "Tell her now."

Rainbow Dash gulped. "What's the point? It's not like she can hear me, or answer, or forgive me." She grimaced. "Or hear me forgive her."

Indigo Zap bit her lip, obviously debating whether to say something or not, but finally, she looked Dash in the eye. "I hear they're taking her back to Equestria."

Rainbow Dash blinked. "What."

Zap nodded. "I heard that... they want to..." she gulped. "bury her there. They won't take her across the portal until after the contest tomorrow." She smiled sadly. "They want her to be here for that. Both contests."

Rainbow tried to take a deep breath, but it caught, and she felt her eyes sting with tears. She sniffed and wiped and rubbed her eyes, but she couldn't bring herself to say anything.

She remained quietly sobbing while Zap walked around the table, silently sat next to her, and wrapped an arm around her shoulder.

Lemon Zest turned the page of the First Aid/CPR/AED manual.

"She's burning to the touch!" Cadance shouted. "Quick, bring me the cold presses!"

Lemon Zest nodded, running out of the room and rummaging through the equipment they had bought almost a week ago. She could feel her heart pounding hard against her chest as adrenaline drove her to move faster and find them.

After discovering Twilight being under, she had been the first to hear the sounds from Sunset's room, and now, it seemed that no matter what they did, they couldn't get a break.

Finding the presses, she ran back into the room, where Cadance quickly made use of them. But there was something else...

She took a deep breath. She should have been more help. She should have known some basic things other than what she saw on TV.

The pair backed off when Sunset suddenly burst into light. The straps snapped releasing her as she floated a solid three inches over the bed. Wings of light and the silhouette of a horn emerged from her back and forehead. The AmuSphere she was wearing started to fizzle and spark as the magic coursed over the room in waves, until, arching her back, Sunset pulsed with magic once more and then collapsed on the bed.

The AmuSphere split in half and fell to the floor, and the computer connecting her into GGO fell to the side, smoking, as something inside exploded.

Cadance and Zest stared at the damage done before the former ran over to check on Sunset.

"She's not breathing!" she shouted, looking up at Zest. "Call 911!"

Zest smirked a little. "First thing to do if there's several people," she muttered. "Have someone call an ambulance."

"But—"

"She's not breathing!" Cadance repeated with a glare, before starting CPR.

"And the first thing I did was question it." She closed her eyes and shook her head.

Twilight rushed into the room, staring in horror for a split second before taking turns with Cadance in trying to keep Sunset alive, while Lemon Zest could only hold onto the phone and tell the operator their address and to send an ambulance.

She turned to the next page, reading through the procedures and memorizing them. She had scheduled a course for next week so she could be certified. Never again would she just stand idly by and let someone die.

Twilight Sparkle reclined against the wall of the emptied-out computer lab, earphones plugged into her mp3 player.

It's funny how life throws us curve balls just when we think we're finally getting ahead.

"Tell me about it," she muttered.

I found new friends... I think I found finally the words needed to mend old friendships... I found love... a sense of belonging beyond a single circle.

Twilight choked back a sob and slammed her fist back, hitting the wall.

I learned that friendship is like a kaleidoscope of sorts. For each person, each friendship, each love there is a million details that make them unique, and when you shine the light of friendship on them, you can truly appreciate how beautiful they all are.

"Stupid. Idiot. You knew it was going to kill you!" she almost snarled.

She was about to slam her fist against the wall again, when someone took her hand. Surprised, Twilight looked up suddenly, accidentally dislodging the earplugs from their place.

"T-Twilight?" she stammered, immediately recognizing her otherworldly counterpart. "Princess! I-um," she tried to get up, but Princess Twilight's hand on her shoulder stopped her.

She watched as the princess sat down next to her. It was always surreal to see the similarities and differences, and how they still looked nerdy regardless.

"When are you going to stop beating yourself up over this?" Princess Twilight asked.

Twilight shook her head. "I got her hooked on this game," she said at length, unwilling to look at her friend/counterpart. "It was me who introduced her to it, I who arranged for the experiment to happen..."

Princess Twilight's smile was sad. "But I helped too. Both Sunset and I worked on the magical side of this whole thing..." she trailed off, apparently thinking something over, before she nodded to herself and she slid a familiar looking book from her bag.

"Sunset's diary!"

Princess Twilight chuckled. "No... it's the one I had in Equestria, I brought it with me... I wasn't sure why, but... well, look at this."

She flipped through the pages until she found the one she was apparently looking for, and passed it over to Twilight.

Dear Twilight,

Something happened today. It was amazing.

I was visiting Twilight—you know, your other you—and she and Lemon Zest agreed to go Ragnarockr with me! It's... a type of really intense series of music concerts... and I knew that it wasn't Twilight's cup of tea, but she went regardless.

I love these girls, Twilight. Not only does Zest get my music, but Twilight also showed me the most amazing thing! It's a game of sorts where you can transfer your mind into an avatar of sorts, and create a whole new life and explore and have adventures and even use weapons without the actual risk to hurt anyone!

I needed this so much. Friends that wanted to do what I want to do, or would do things for me just like I do things for them, and also a way to let loose and de-stress by doing something challenging where I don't have to watch myself so I don't accidentally magic someone to the moon.

I'm really excited about this... about the new friends I'm making, about the new worlds I can explore, about the things I can do now... and it's all thanks to you and Twilight here.

You both are teaching me so much about friendship and life it's... humbling. And I'm thankful.

Your friend and student,

~Sunset Shimmer.

Twilight bit her lip, and upon a nod from Princess Twilight, she flipped through.

Dear Twilight,

Call me... Desert Mirage! Gunslinger supreme!

Twilight introduced me to two of her online friends and they all helped me set up my character. I love being her already! It's... empowering and freeing and cool and crazy and unreal at the same time.

I look a little older, I thought about doing a completely different character type, like Twilight did for herself and I'm sure others do, but I figured I wanted to explore how life as a no holds-barred version of me that looks closer to my age would be like... and I love it!

I'll be sure to write to you about my adventures!

Your friend and student,

~Sunset Shimmer

Twilight chuckled, sniffling immediately after. "I remember how proud she was about her character. She wouldn't let me or the others do anything for her after that first time... she trained and grew by herself until she was ready to do her first dungeon raid." She smiled. "We never told her, but we were impressed by how quickly she got to that level. Sunset was a natural."

Princess Twilight simply nodded, and Twilight continued leafing through the pages.

Dear Twilight,

This day started very bad... I really felt things would collapse around me, that I was doomed to just be alone again. But then, something happened today.

I feel like I've made new friends today.

I've known a few of them for a few months, but I never really sat down to talk to them and... it was fun. There was a lot of banter, a lot of bragging and plenty of planning a contest we want to win. But I haven't laughed like that in a while, and it felt so good!

It was... honest. A really honest, heart-felt laugh. I think the last time I had one of those was on your first visit, before you had to leave. We talked about learning from Princess Celestia and we were comparing notes, remember?

It was like that, again... and guess what? One of my new friends is none other than Vice Principal Luna! It's just... so different, and so interesting to find out that she and I have such things in common.

We talked tactics and teamwork and so many things related to this event! It was great to be with people that get me.

I'm glad I met with all of them earlier today. I'm meeting them again, soon, but I wanted to let you know that I learned an important lesson about friendship today:

Sometimes you try too hard to fit in. Sometimes it's worth it, and sometimes not... but there's always a place for you, where you fit and where friendships can bloom.

~Sunset Shimmer.

"Oh, I remember this!" Twilight laughed. "It was her first meeting with Surgeon's team. Did you know Principal Luna gave her homework in-game?"

Princess Twilight chuckled. "I'm not surprised, she's very dedicated to education, even if her photoshop skills are lacking."

Twilight rolled her eyes and elbowed the Princess goodnaturedly. "No one is perfect, besides are you saying you're a photoshop ace now?"

"Of course not!" Princess Twilight declared. "There simply aren't enough photoshop books in Equestria for me to do that yet. But give me a few and I bet I'd manage just fine."

The pair giggled.

The leafed through the pages a little more, until Princess Twilight snickered. "Oh, this is when she went back to Equestria and she had to explain to everypony how Gun Gale Online works. So, I got Princess Celestia to send Sunset a letter, because I just knew Sunset wouldn't do it herself..."

The walk from the school to the cemetery was short. In a small city like Canterlot City, everything was within relative walking distance. And so, Princess Luna found herself walking among graves, keeping her eyes trained on her counterpart, who had sat down exactly where she thought she would be.

"In Equestria," she said as she sat down next to Vice Principal Luna, "I don't have a specific place to seek solace with those who have gone before me, but I find myself drawn to cemeteries nevertheless, to consider mortality, absence, loss and love."

"Does it get easier with such a long life?" Luna asked, not looking up at the Princess. "I understand that time heals, and that it's a natural part of how the world works... but is it ever easier?"

Princess Luna sighed. "No. Whether it is a lover, a musician we were particularly fond of, a friend or even a noble we might have spared with, those that touch us deeply in one way or another will always leave a mark on us that will never be fully filled." She glanced at the sky. "Their mark upon us... a hoofprint in our heart. It is that gift; that connection which brings us the best memories of them, and as such, they are missed because the memory cannot be given flesh to be renewed again. "With time, as you rightly say, we learn to cope with the absence, for if we did not, we would be doing not only a disservice to ourselves, but also to those that loved us and are no longer with us to snap us out out if."

Luna nodded. "I've never felt so helpless. Even when I had no clue what to do for Sunset to get her back in her body, I didn't feel as helpless as when—" she cut off, biting her lip. "When I was younger I felt that my sister's popularity was stifling, even killing me. I took off and did things I'm not proud of."

She snorted. "Thankfully not as bad as what some other, more unfortunate people than I have gone through, but I... I did take drugs. I let myself go, lived in squalor, broke into an abandoned building. Built a shrine to nature, smoked whatever came to me. Stole. Begged. Ran away from the police... until one day, I was walking down the street and I stopped and stared through the window of a store... I saw Celestia, drinking coffee, surrounded by people and she looked so lonely.

"I never told her what made me go back... and when years later, I met Sunset, I saw how lonely she was, and I wanted to change that. She was a horrible, horrible person, though," Luna laughed. "I wanted to help her be happy, but she was just, oh my goddess, she was just impossible!"

The pair chuckled.

"It took me time to see her for who she was. Far more than I care to admit most of the time. And it would have taken me longer, had I not agreed to go meet Surgeon and his team... and there I saw the real Sunset. And I think I loved her from that moment on."

Princess Luna nodded. "Do they help you through this?"

Luna sighed, looking at the two graves in front of her. "In a way. My mother passed away when I was really young, so I have few memories of her, and my father... I never knew him. We grew up with our distant family, who were as loving as they could be. But them... my parents, I like to think that they worried for me. That they were proud when I pulled myself together, got a job, learned to love my sister for our differences... and that they would have approved of me and Sunset."

"I'm sure they would," Princess Luna said. "I never met my parents either, but what I have seen of parents leads me to that conclusion: that your parents would be proud of you and happy for you."

Vice Principal Luna smiled, then slowly stood up, helping the Princess up as well. "I'm going to the hospital. Even if she's really gone, and all we have here is an empty body, kept alive by machines... She's still Sunset, and I only have until tomorrow to be at her side."

Princess Luna gulped. "If you want..."

Luna shook her head. "No... I-I understand why she needs to go back... I just wish it wasn't because of this."

Princess Luna nodded. "In that case, I shall return home for now. Rest well, my sister, I will see you tomorrow."

The soft beeping of the machines attached to Sunset greeted Luna. She walked slowly around the bed and sat down, taking Sunset's hand in hers.

"They say that you're gone," she whispered, "the doctors said that there is no activity in your brain... that it's just the machines." She sniffled. "The others... they say you have no magic in your body at all. No spirit. That it's just the machines."

Luna rested her head on Sunset's arm, still holding her hand.

"They say you're going home, to Equestria... to spend your last days with your family there."

She gulped.

"I just want you back," she confessed. "Please. Come back."

Chapter 28: Vision

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 28: Vision

They looked like stars.

Golden, distant, ephemeral and short-lived stars, falling slowly—almost like snowflakes—in the absolute darkness and silence that enveloped everything. They fell, unhindered, until they touched... a surface far below, some sort of equally black liquid. Each golden flake creating ripples in the darkness before fading out completely.

Luna floated in the darkness, and much like her shared dreams with Princess Luna, the emptiness around her felt like warm velvet, enveloping her in a comforting mantle of darkness, the specks flowing around her. She tried to speak, but no words came... no sound seemed able to break through that veil of silence that encompassed the universe around her. The only sound was a distant, muted rustling, like snow falling.

She wasn't afraid. She was alone and yet... she looked at the golden lights. She wasn't. She knew. Each light flake was full of life, somehow. Possibilities, eternity, warmth... so much so, that despite the blinding darkness she felt welcome and safe.

Each ripple far below her was like silent voices speaking just beyond her senses' ability to understand them. And yet, each voice echoed somehow within her, as if the unknown words were meant for her to carry them beyond this impossibly beautiful place.

Slowly, she drifted down, naked and exposed. Enveloped and protected. Her hair floated behind her, ethereal, creating river-like ripples in the lights as she dove deeper and deeper, closer and still so far away from the surface where the lights would ripple.

And the closer she was to it, the more she felt there was something beyond the lights, beyond the darkness.

As if commanded by this realization, she stopped sinking, and slowly started floating back. She was being somehow pulled away despite her desire to remain. The final lights fell, outside of her grasp as she was pulled further and further away, until there were no more falling around her.

The lights became smaller and she realized she was so far now she could see the shape of the surface where the lights were actually falling into and causing that muted, rustling sound. It looked like... an egg of some sort, made of now-tiny flakes of light falling continuously inside of its invisible shell.

But there was something else. Something she could start to make out now that she was being pulled away even farther than before. Something was around the egg, she couldn't make it out yet, but she could somehow sense that it was protecting it.

She finally saw what it was, and her eyes widened. She tried to speak again, to give voice to the vision she was witnessing. Something so big, and all encompassing that she needed to name it, somehow, but the silence remained despite her best efforts.

Luna shook awake, gasping as she pushed up and stared at Sunset, lying undisturbed in front of her.

Her lover remained the same: same beeping from the machine; same IV drop, oxygen pump pressing and decompressing, helping her breathe.

With a shuddering breath, Luna looked at the clock, blinking when she noticed the time. It was early in the morning. The last day her lover would remain in this world. She gulped and looked back to Sunset.

What did her vision mean? Was it simply a dream? Could she just be holding onto false hope in an effort to fight the pain? She reached down, softly tracing Sunset's arm with the tips of her fingers. What did it mean?

A knock on the door made her look up, noticing Twilight Sparkle and Lemon Zest both standing there, looking at her with unsure smiles.

"I'm sorry, Vice-Principal," Twilight said, "we were going to keep Sunset company while the competitions were going on. We didn't know you were here."

"N-no, no problem," Luna stammered, clearing her throat and shaking her head. She pushed back and stood slowly. "I should get ready... eat some food, log in for Surgeon's meeting..."

"We'll make sure she watches the event," Twilight promised with a sad smile. "I convinced the nurses to bring another TV, we'll put the match on that one, and the music festival on the other TV, so she won't miss anything."

Luna nodded, standing up and straightening her clothes as best possible. Her mind was still going back to her dream. "Thank you girls, take care of her... I'll make her proud, and I'm sure the Rainbooms will too," she said, making her way to the door.

"Good luck!" Twilight called as Luna walked out of the room, but Luna didn't hear her.

She stopped and slid her hand into her purse, searching with her fingers until they brushed against the surface of Princess Luna's clasp. Was it really just a dream? Could things simply be dreams where magic was involved?

She didn't want to believe so. But there was only one way to find out for sure.

She hurried out of the hospital with renewed vigor. She only had a few hours before she had to be online, and those few hours would have to be enough.

"Dashie, we should practice a little," Pinkie Pie said, placing a hand on her friend's shoulder. "Don't you want to do well in the competition?"

Rainbow Dash sighed, lifting her head from her knees and looking up at her friend. "Of course I do," she said after a moment. "I just... well, you know."

Pinkie nodded. Then frowned. "Wait, no, I don't."

"Pinkie..." Rainbow Dash groaned. "You know that I wanted the concert to be my apology to Sunset. Now I can't do that!"

"Yeah... but now it's super-duper-ultra-awesomely-important that you do it!" Pinkie insisted. "She's going to hear it!"

"She's gone, Pinkie!" Rainbow snapped. "Let it be! I'll be fine when our turn comes." She turned away and started strumming her guitar, clearly in no mood to continue the conversation.

Pinkie cringed and walked away slowly, joining the other girls. "Dashie really doesn't want to talk, I couldn't even get her to smile a little," she said despondently.

Rarity patted her shoulder. "There, there, darling. It's not your fault. She is dealing with guilt herself, but she'll come around."

"Ah sure hope so," Applejack said with a sigh. "Ah know they were not on good terms for most of what happened, but Sunset and Rainbow are friends. Ah know Sunset wouldn't want her to feel responsible, or miserable."

"R-Rainbow Dash has always tried to protect her friends," Fluttershy said, carefully measuring her words. "I think she does blame herself for not being able to protect Sunset."

"But what could she have done?" Applejack asked, sighing and scratching the back of her head. "What could any of us have done? What happened with those monsters ain't normal, even by Canterlot High standards."

"We all need to be there for her," Rarity stated firmly. "I know it goes without saying that none of us will walk away in her moment of need, but we need to make sure she knows that."

The others nodded.

"Ah want to make sure she's okay," Applejack said to the others. "We're goin' to be hittin' the stage pretty soon."

"Applejack!" Rarity gasped. "I can't believe you're more interested in winning than—" She stopped when Applejack raised her hand.

"It's not that Ah'm here to win and nothin' else, but after this group, it's the Shadowbolts's turn, and after the Shadowbolts, it's ours." She looked around. "Now, I don't know about y'all, but Ah'd rather not go out there with one of us not feelin' 100%. Not because we might lose, but because we owe it to ourselves to put our friends' health first and foremost," she explained. "Rainbow Dash shouldn't go out there if Sunset's absence is only goin' to hit her harder. Or at least that's how I look at it."

"I see." Rarity sighed. "I'm sorry Applejack, I spoke without thinking. But how can we cheer her up? We all know what she wanted this to... to mean for her and Sunset."

Applejack sighed. "Ah don't know. Ah just don't want her to make things worse for herself."

Princess Twilight Sparkle glanced forlornly at her desk, where scrolls of magical theory mingled with scrolls of applied theory of magic and modern, non-Equestrian technology. It was to be a crowning achievement; a thesis beyond what Starswirl himself had achieved. It was to encompass the knowledge of three Princesses, two former students of Celestia—and more recently—her royal sister, Luna as well as technomancer-of-sorts and princess counterpart, Science Twilight. It would encompass not one, but three universes... Equestria, Earth and GGO... with the possibility of all the other possible universes that could be accessed with the FullDive technology.

It was to be a project of friends, for friends and science and magic.

Twilight closed her eyes. She wouldn't give up on the project... she wouldn't do that to Sunset and the others, but perhaps... perhaps that should wait. She slowly began rolling the scrolls together and organizing them, making sure each was stacked properly so that if... or rather when... she got back to it, she wouldn't have a hard time sorting it out.

A humming behind her made her stop and glance at the mirror, which had started vibrating. Surprised, she stepped back just as a familiar-looking unicorn emerged through it, rolling head over hooves, only to slide to a stop right before her.

Twilight blinked, and helped the struggling mare up. It took her a moment to process what—or rather who—she was holding.

"Vice Principal Luna?!"

"Y-yes," the unicorn Luna gasped, slowly managing to find her balance. "I'm sorry for the sudden visit, Twilight, but something urgent has come up." She took a glance at her body. "I truly do look like my counterpart."

Twilight chuckled nervously. "Except you have no wings, but yes, you could almost pass for Princess Luna herself."

Luna looked over her shoulder and nodded. "So it would seem," she shook her head and turned to regard her. "Twilight, I desperately need to see Princess Luna. I realize this is completely unexpected, but it's urgent and she is the only one that can help me. Please, Twilight," she whispered, placing a hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "Help me."

Twilight nodded, eyes narrowing with determination. "No problem, Prin—I mean, Vice Principal. Follow me."

The pair walked out of the study, while Luna tried to come to grips with her new appearance.

Walking on four hooves wasn't a completely new experience for Luna. It brought back memories of playing with her sister, when they were both young and pretending to be different animals—in Luna's case, most often a panther—it was interesting, how the simple act of walking this way evoked sentiments of innocence and brighter days. This time around, she couldn't prowl, or pretend to be a dangerous predator about to capture Celestia, but just like Sunset and Twilight had adapted quickly to walking on two legs, so Luna found herself able to move relatively easily a few seconds later. It almost felt like she was in a game, using the AmuSphere with a computer reinterpreting her mental and neuronal commands into the proper motor movements.

The sensory perception was mostly the same: her height felt halved, for one, although it was far more comfortable than her childhood role playing. She had been expecting to feel some sort of phantom fingers, but perhaps the unique physique of Equestria's equines simply replaced her digits with magic.

She soon found herself ushered into a waiting room, presented with a cup of tea—which she was holding up with her hooves without too much effort—and asked to wait as Twilight contacted the other princess.

She put down the cup and touched above her head, bumping her hoof carefully against her horn. She had a horn! It felt shorter and less pointy than Princess Luna's had looked like, but maybe that was a result of not being a princess herself. The fact that she was not an alicorn seemed odd. In a way, she had expected both sides to be fairly consistent, although Sunset had mentioned that she was born a unicorn; not an alicorn. Perhaps whatever requirements for a transformation (if any) their counterparts had completed hadn't had an analogous experience on her side of the mirror.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the return of Twilight Sparkle, who was accompanied by Princess Luna herself.

Luna stood up. "I didn't expect you to return so quickly!"

Princess Luna smiled. "I dared not go too far from the mirror. Wishful thinking kept me close, hoping that my assistance could be needed to somehow return our friend Sunset Shimmer to us." She studied Luna and her smile grew quizzical. "Although perhaps you bear news that make it less wishful and more real?"

"I hope so," Luna replied. "I really hope it's not just me being whimsical but... last night, I dreamt something. I... saw something. I don't even know how to describe it."

Luna frowned. "Fret not, my dear sister. I know ways to share your vision. Come." She turned to face Twilight. "Twilight, please make sure we are not disturbed."

Twilight, whose eyes were shimmering with excitement at possible new magic, slumped. "Can't I watch?"

Princess Luna smirked. "I will show you the spell, but later. It is very important we do this without interruption."

Princess Luna escorted Vice Principal Luna to a bedroom nearby and closed the door behind them.

The latter looked around, taking in how the room was decorated; from the dark purple curtains (they were almost black, but for a little light shining on them), to the hundreds of half-molten candles of all shapes and sizes, mostly ranging in color from deep red to black to white were placed either on tables or silver chandeliers. The large bed's duvet was black, with a half-moon sigil sewn into it, and the pillows were a dark blue, very similar to the hue of her fur and Princess Luna's.

A desk, covered in scrolls and silver clasps, similar—but smaller compared to the one she had obtained—was pushed against a wall right next to the closed balcony doors.

"Is this your room?" Luna asked, blinking. "I thought you lived in Canterlot with your sister?"

Princess Luna smiled, walking up to touch the edge of her desk with a hoof. "Our sister and I do live in Canterlot Castle, indeed. However I have found that living here provides some advantages. I do love my sister, but her former student and I have much in common in the pursuit and study of magic, as well as our interest in our inter-dimensional counterparts and their well-being. That said, it would be unwise to admit that Ponyville holds a soft spot in my heart. This is, after all, the first place I was truly accepted for who I am, and welcomed not only as their ruler, but as Luna and not the Nightmare. Thus, I spend plenty of time as a visitor to Princess Twilight's castle... enough time, apparently, to merit my own room."

Luna grinned. "I'm glad you found a place like this."

Princess Luna nodded, motioning for Luna to make herself comfortable on the bed. "As much as I would love to talk at length about that, sister, I fear we have more urgent matters to attend. Please, relax."

She walked over to the bed and lay on her stomach, facing Luna. "We will induce sleep and focus our oneiric magic to bring forth your vision. We will also channel the dream force into a container, where Twilight Sparkle will be able to study it with us."

Luna shuffled a little uncomfortably as the other mare closed her eyes. "Is this dangerous?"

Princess Luna smirked, not opening her eyes. "Considerably less so than fighting a giant, magical mutating monster with regular weapons."

Luna couldn't help but chuckle. "That does put me at ease. Thank you." She closed her eyes, and took a long, deep breath, letting it out slowly.

"Good, very good," she heard Princess Luna say. "I see that you have learned to meditate. A useful skill not many unicorns bother with in this age. Truly a sad thing, as their focus and understanding of magic would be much improved by the mental discipline. I had feared that I would need to guide you more slowly into the magical field, but you seem to have an innate affinity to it. Let my voice seep through you, Luna. Feel the river of mana that flows through you; that connects you to the source of the universe. Of light. Of darkness. The matter of dreams. The substance of imagination. The surety of illusion."

Slowly, lulled by the voice of the Princess, the darkness in Luna's mind parted to allow a pulsating glow of purple-blue light. Without prompting, she reached for it with invisible appendages. In her mind's eye she saw ephemeral tendrils of a similar glow emerge from herself and intertwine with what she now knew was Luna's magic... and suddenly they were both floating in a very familiar, velvety darkness with sparkling flakes of light flowing and falling around them.

"Interesting," Princess Luna said, glancing around with raised eyebrows. "Is this your vision?"

Luna nodded. "Yes... but this is not all. Follow me, Princess."

Luna floated back, with her counterpart following easily. They swam with invisible, mental strokes through the darkness and light, through twirling glowing flakes until they floated so far away they took the shape she had seen before: as if they were in a constant flurry of motion, glistening and glittering within a crystal egg.

"This is amazing," Princess Luna whispered, but followed Luna when she continued floating further and further back until they both could clearly see the form that surrounded the now-tiny egg.

Luna turned to face the Princess, who floated there, wings open and eyes wide, trying to formulate words that wouldn't come. She shook her head, obviously trying to comprehend what they were seeing.

"Please, Princess," Luna begged, drawing the attention of the alicorn—who obviously had to force herself to look away—to herself. "Tell me what this means. How can this be possible?"

Princess Luna shook her head, turning to face the vision of fire, falling stars, novas and darkness that formed the shape of a woman holding the crystal-snow-ball-of-light-like egg against her chest, curved almost into a fetal position around it.

The shape of the face; the calm look on it; the way the hair floated behind her into infinity... it was clear who it was. But, what could it mean?

"Please, Princess," Luna spoke up again. "Is this real? Is that really Sunset Shimmer?"

Chapter 29: Shadows

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 29: Shadows

Nightmare Moon ran through the labyrinthine tunnels, ignoring any enemies unless they were fast enough to pursue her, and even then, a vicious slash of her sword would be enough to send them reeling, unable to catch up with her after that.

For what lay at the end of this quest level, it was an unusually common-looking and low-challenge dungeon crawl. By her calculations so far, a well organized and well stocked squad of at least level 30 characters would have been able to clear the first three floors and by the time they got down to where she was, they'd have leveled up a bit and have little trouble with the creatures around here.

The difficult part had been finding the entrance to this place, it being in the middle of a very high-level zone, far from Glocken and not marked on any map. The zone itself had a very unrealistic feel to it. It definitely was not lore-friendly to GGO, with floating islands interconnected by bridges, medieval-looking ruins instead of alien-like, and not many traces of technology outside of monster creatures such as mechanical insects and birds, or cyborg lizard-men and even the odd turret and robot.

Further down, Princess Luna's voice echoed in her mind, slurring and distorting slightly as if the voice itself was pushing through some sort of barrier.

Nightmare Moon nodded, zig-zagging past a pair of guards protecting what looked to be another cave... and emerging into a different zone.

Unlike the previous "natural" tunnel, this one was clearly intended to look man-made. It was little more than a long corridor, with no creatures in sight. The floor was made of dark stone, with columns rising along the wall to support a curved ceiling with chained chandeliers hanging from it, barely illuminating the whole thing.

It also felt different. There was something about it... it just felt cold and oppressive. She felt like she was being watched by hundreds of eyes, but there was no sign of enemies or other players. A soft mist swirled around the floor, reaching just above her ankles and seemed to try to cling to her with every step.

Nightmare Moon turned left, then right. Either direction looked exactly the same to her, with the corridor extending well beyond sight and into darkness. "What now?"

Left.

Nightmare Moon took a deep breath, gripping the handle of her plasma sword tightly, and set off.

Earlier...

"Was it just a dream?" Luna asked.

Princess Luna shook her head, blinking in confusion at the shape in front of them before narrowing her eyes and concentrating. Her eyes flashed with light and the world around them seemed to shake.

"I-I sense something," Princess Luna said slowly. "'Tis vague. An echo of an echo... a touch of familiar magic. True, but somehow noisy, as if there had been a crackling interference even within your dreamscape."

"But you and Celestia and... even Twilight Sparkle said that there was no more magic within Sunset's body."

"Aye," Princess Luna replied grimly. "That is true. But this magic did not come from her body. If it had when you were right next to it, there would be no interference. Nay, this came from far off. It has a smell and... a strange taste to it. Much like when Sunset and you visited me together. It smells like something burnt. Like smoke and oil."

Princess Luna shook her head and her horn glowed, enveloping them both with magic. Suddenly, Luna herself was able to smell and taste the magic that her inter-dimensional counterpart was tasting.

Luna blinked. "It's coming from Gun Gale Online! This is what the gunpowder and oil smells like."

Princess Luna frowned, gazing from her to the apparition and then back. "Most interesting. Gun Gale Online must truly have a deep connection to you both for this to happen."

Luna felt her heart flutter. "So you're saying that she's..."

Princess Luna took a deep breath and slowly everything blurred around them until Luna snapped her eyes open. They were back in Princess Luna's room, and her counterpart was looking at her with a very serious expression.

"Even if her body remains alive in a manner of speaking, we had thought Sunset Shimmer to be fully gone. While her mind might've been unresponsive, a shred or even a spark of magic would have given us hope and means to restore her. However the magic is completely gone from her body... and yet, the magic remains and reached out to you."

The princess jumped down from the bed and started pacing in the room. "What this means, I don't know. An echo of her magic might remain inside of you... but why would it be accompanied with the feelings of being in GGO?" She shook her head. "No... it means that Sunset's magic remains somehow, inside that world and in some manner it reached out to you, or you—having been exposed to it intimately—reached out to it."

"But that means she's alive, right?"

Princess Luna shook her head. "Under normal circumstances... and were the magic coming from within her body, yes. That would be correct. However, this magic does not generate within Sunset's body; it reaches to you from within a game world. It could be a trapped portion of her magic, remnants of her final battle, or even the diary which is believed to have ended somehow inside GGO and your subconscious mind connected it to an image of Sunset Shimmer."

"But it's still a chance," Luna insisted, carefully making her way down from the bed and wobbling on her hooves before walking to stand before Princess Luna. "And a chance, even a tiny one, is better than nothing."

"Well said." Princess Luna smirked before she turned and headed out of the room. "Come, we must send you back to your world... use the clasp I gave you. Hold it when you go into the Gun Gale world. I'll send my presence with you and aid you in tracking the source of magic. Be it her diary or any other source of magic, we shall find it together." She stopped to put a hoof on Luna's shoulder. "Keep hope, sister. Now that we have a lead, we shall fight until the end."

The bar was packed.

Whenever a big event happened in GGO, people would log in to watch with their friends and squad-mates. Being there was almost like being in a concert; the energy, the excitement and bets... for most users, it beat watching it from the comfort of the real world.

Only a few minutes remained before the beginning of the last match to decide the team that would represent the American server of GGO vs the Asian Server and crowds had already gathered all over Glocken to watch the event.

Information brokers navigated through the tightly-packed throngs of people, sharing their knowledge about the participants for a price and encouraging people to place bets on one team or another.

Here and there previous participants sat sullenly at their tables, trying not to look too depressed that their team wasn't one of the two being highlighted at that exact moment on the large screens hanging from the ceiling at the center of the bar.

In a private booth, with thick walls separating them from the crowd, but not enough to dull the sound, Surgeon grimaced, going over his notes once more.

"It just doesn't feel right, you know?" Thunderbird said, head propped on his hand. "Without Mirage we're not a full team. And I just... never expected a friend to die for real here."

The Lion grimaced. "We owe it to her to win. If we respect her memory at all, we can't give up." He snorted. "After a real life and death battle, this match almost feels like kids' play."

"I wonder if that's how the SAO survivors feel about games?" Heavy Collar asked while he balanced an empty beer bottle on the tip of his finger.

"Que importa?" Coyote shrugged. "We're here now, and we can still win." He turned over to Surgeon. "Nightmare Moon is online, even if she's not here. When the tournament starts, she'll join us."

Surgeon nodded. "The system will pluck her from wherever she is to bring her in. Right now, however... we need to discuss XCOM."

"What's there to discuss?" Thunderbird asked. "I know we're short one person, but—"

Surgeon shook his head. "We won't lose, but we need to know what to do now."

Coyote raised and eyebrow, while the others leaned in closer.

"What do you mean?" Collar asked.

"XCOM has probably watched our videos to figure out a strategy against us, so they already know our biggest weakness."

The others blinked, then looked at each other.

Surgeon smirked. "We plan when we get there. In all our battles we've taken time to plan our moves because our enemies remain passive. We take our time figuring out a strategy while they get defensive positions and get comfortable, then we strike fast and hard. We don't give our enemies time to regroup. However, that means that if we don't have time to analyze our surroundings, we'll be sitting ducks. Or at least that's what they'd assume.

"While their tactics are not as decisive as ours, XCOM's teamwork is on par with our own, and I daresay better at small, clustered fights. They'll stick to a formation and move forward immediately. They won't stay still for us to destroy at our convenience."

"That doesn't sound too good for us," Thunderbird said nervously.

"It isn't," Surgeon replied with a shrug. "XCOM will try to lure us and ambush us. But unlike other teams, they won't stay static. As soon as they get to the map, they'll move to covered positions, and as soon as they see one of us, they'll move to prepare their ambush before luring us in.

"We can't afford to fight them head on either," he added, summoning a screen on their table. "They have a balanced team on all fronts and two very experienced veterans. Even if Mirage was here, they'd know her well enough to be able to counter her.

"They know we're on another level than the other teams, so they'll be more cautious, but they'll follow the same pattern of behaviour to move into position," Surgeon said. "Striker and Surial will move first with Wallflower and Butcher to secure their immediate area while Sukiru will go for the closest high position to get the most area for her to shoot. She'll scope the area ahead of the squad's movements. In the meantime Rock and Ripp3r will be flanking behind, providing back up for Sukiru and moving with her from location to location."

Surgeon sighed. "We can't stop to plan. They know how dangerous that is when it comes to our team. They'll move fast to ensnare us. You guys remember what happened to Team Daybreak. They thought they had time because everyone else likes to play the waiting game."

The Lion leaned back. "And you're sure they'll follow this tactic?"

Surgeon nodded. "It hasn't failed them yet, and their team is experienced enough to take opportunity when they see it. They won't give us a chance to plan once we're in there and we can't follow their same tactics and hope to win."

Thunderbird grimaced. "So we're going to get owned."

"No," Surgeon said with a snort. "We've taken down two boss level monsters that would have destroyed entire squads. We're not newbies or just lucky. I have a strategy. It'll be tough, but they won't expect it."

"Well, you're the boss for a reason, I guess," Coyote said taking a swig of his bottle. "Como dicen las monjas: que sera sera."

"Doesn't Nightmare Moon need to know? She should be here now," Thunderbird asked.

Surgeon frowned. "She's on a mission. Don't worry, the strategy is simple enough to tell her as soon as we see her." He paused. "Her role is very straightforward, but we need to be prepared. There's a few things I want done the exact moment we get there and have a chance to do so. And for that, we need to be ready right now."

Heavy Collar grunted. "Well, what's the plan?"

Surgeon grinned.

Despite the length and eeriness of the corridor, there were no monsters to be seen. After a few minutes walking from lighted area to lighted area, she eventually saw something in the distance. A white light that came from straight ahead, rather than above.

Encouraged, Nightmare Moon started trotting towards it.

I feel Sunset's magic emanating from that room, Princess Luna's voice said softly. But there's something else... I feel we are not alone, despite appearances.

Nightmare Moon nodded, slowing down and sticking to the wall. She pulled out her rifle and looked through the scope.

"I see a room... it's different from anything else I've seen in GGO... the walls are paneled white, and there seems to be a large metal table in the middle. I don't see anyone or anything there." She turned around and glanced behind her.

Things seemed normal. Or as normal as the corridor could ever be. Still, she shared the feeling that something was not right with the princess, and not only that, but that something was aware that she was there.

Hurry. Princess Luna urged. It's either our imagination or an actual threat, and the more we stall the more imminent it becomes.

Not seeing a problem with that logic, Nightmare Moon nodded and moved forward, until she was at the threshold of the room.

She gasped. "How did that get here?"

In the middle of the room, as she had seen from her scope, was a table, but now that she was in front of it, she could clearly see what was on top.

Next to a pile of data-pads, resting as if it belonged right in the middle of a dungeon in a video game, was Sunset's diary... and floating next to it...

Remarkable, Princess Luna's voice reflected her surprise. This is most unusual, I had truly not believed your vision to be more than your subconscious translating the magical signal.

"I-is that really..."

Indeed! That is the egg-like entity from your dream, Princess Luna whispered, barely containing a happy edge to her voice. And not only that, dear sister! That is Sunset Shimmer's magic and soul!

Eyes wide, Nightmare Moon slowly entered the room. It felt almost sacrilegious to do so.

Her steps echoed in sudden, absolute silence until she reached the table.

Carefully, almost reverently, she extended her hand and caressed the side of the egg with the tip of her index finger, fearful that it might break or disperse into nothing, so fragile it seemed.

But the fingertip encountered resistance, and soon she picked it up carefully. "This is... can we bring her back?"

It appears so, sister, Luna's voice echoed. Although I must discuss the method with Twilight. I imagine it is not as simple as doing the logging out. Furthermore, we must be very careful not to damage the egg under any circumstance, or at best Sunset might lose part of her memories, or her magic... we know not wh—

"Luna?" Nightmare Moon asked, blinking. "Princess? What—"

Luna! Sister, you must escape! Princess Luna's voice was urgent, even afraid. 'Tis here! Brace yourself!

Sending the egg into her inventory, Nightmare Moon turned around, pulling Luna out and her sword, facing the door.

In the distance, she could see a shadow advancing towards them, and just as it reached the edge of one of the fields of light, said light would vanish. Slowly, as it approached, the whole corridor was becoming darker.

Quick! You must use the item of transportation!

Luna shook her head.

Luna! Sister!

"I can't!" Luna hissed. "This field is protected from that!"

In the distance the shadow started moving faster towards them, and Nightmare Moon took the shot. She fired once, twice... three times into the upcoming darkness. She could hear a roar of anger and as the mass of shadow and mist drew nearer. From within the miasma, she managed to make out two glowing green orbs, glaring at her. The shape of a mouth opened, only visible due to some sort of unholy red aura inside.

She ignited her plasma blade and prepared to fight.

The shadow reached the door, misty claws grasping both sides of the door as if to pull itself in, fangs opening impossibly wide, eyes gleaming red and green...

Nightmare Moon slashed down, sword tracing light behind her swing.

"It's our turn!" Pinkie screeched, popping out of a barrel next to Rarity in a shower of confetti and sparkles.

She ignored the gasping, chest-clutching girl, to do a cartwheel followed by a jump. "Yay!"

"Alright, girls," Applejack stated, standing up and picking up her guitar. "We have an audience waiting and three songs to sing."

She looked at each of the others. "Ah know that there's a lot in our minds, but we're goin' to do our best because we know we can, and we owe it to ourselves and those that ain't 'round anymore. Are we gonna do this?"

She got smiles from the others and a nod from Rainbow Dash. Taking a deep breath, her rainbow-haired friend gave her a resolute if small smile. "Let's get 'em, girls."

The group stepped out onto the stage, where the cameras focused on them and replicated them on a large screen behind them. As they took their places, Rainbow Dash stepped forward and, grabbing the microphone, looked straight at the audience.

"As some of you know, one of our dearest friends is not with us anymore. Tonight we sing not only to win, but to make her proud! Hit it, girls!"

WELCOME TO THE FINAL ROUND

The battleground was a land of stone and water. They could hear waves around them and two cliffs on either side of the small beach framed a narrow path into a deep, foreboding jungle. Up in the distance, structures rose; old buildings wrapped in vines and half-destroyed by nature.

Nightmare Moon gasped, falling to her knees as her teammates appeared one by one around her.

"Well, you really look like you have seen better days," Thunderbird stated, looking down at her, only to be elbowed by the Lion.

"Estas bien, Nightmare Moon?" Coyote asked, helping her up.

Nightmare Moon shook her head, still shivering. "I almost died."

"We all die in thi—ow!" Thunderbird turned to growl at the Lion, who just glared back at him.

"Were you successful?" Surgeon asked.

Nightmare Moon took a deep breath, then nodded hesitantly. "Partly, I just—"

She stopped when the sky above them swirled and dark mist slammed into the jungle ahead.

"I just don't think it's XCOM and us alone anymore..." she whispered.

Chapter 30: Chances

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 30: Chances

Darkness.

Silence.

She couldn't really tell what was different from before.

She could feel herself floating; adrift in ethereal winds in a world of absolute deprivation. No sound. No heat. No cold. No light. No food. No air. No water. No body.

And yet, she existed.

Silently voices called to her. Sounds she heard without anything or anyone creating them... and the feeling of someone, far beyond, outside the void around her. Reaching for her, and warming her despite the absence of heat or chill.

How curious.

Words. Or concepts? Could they be words where there was no sound?

What had happened?

Outside of the stillness and absence, she could sense the world move. She was encased in a world encased in a world encased in a world.

Unable to call for help. Unable to communicate. Unable to fully comprehend much of what was happening, except for understanding what had changed.

Now... she was aware.

The sky crackled ominously above the island, long streaks of purple-red lightning crisscrossing through the dark clouds far above them.

"Uh, no creo que esa sea una buena señal..." Coyote muttered.

Nightmare Moon shook her head. "It followed me." She glanced at the others. "I'm not sure who or what it is, but it seems to be behind everything. It was hiding away in some sort of lost area. I wouldn't have found it if it wasn't thanks to... a friend helping me."

And I'm still here, sister, Princess Luna's voice echoed in her head. I fear, however, that I must go. I will attempt to get in contact with "Science Sparkle". If my theory is correct, and with what Princess Twilight is telling me right now, we must make haste."

"Understood," Nightmare Moon said, drawing the attention of the others. She smiled sheepishly. "Sorry, talking to my friend. She's gone now."

"You can talk to people outside the server in the middle of a tournament?" Coyote asked, blinking.

"I'm more worried about whatever it is that followed you here," Thunderbird said, looking at the island with evident apprehension.

"Not to mention XCOM is probably already moving," Heavy Collar said, "worst case scenario we'll end up being attacked by both of them at the same time."

Lion nodded. "I can't imagine them helping us."

"Well, whatever it is, we can't stick to the plan..." Surgeon muttered. "I'm pretty sure we would have managed with XCOM, but this unknown could potentially harm us in the real world, am I correct?" He turned to Luna, who shrugged.

"I'm afraid I don't know," Nightmare Moon said. "Mirage would have been the one to ask. I don't think so... but... well, I didn't think things from this world could ever go to the real one until now." She took a deep breath. "However, I find it unlikely that anything here would affect those of us that not are affected by Mirage's unique situation. Beyond the fact that none of us is trapped in a real life version of their character, we are all wearing Amuspheres. The hardware itself would prevent anything serious from happening to us."

"Well, that's a relief," Thunderbird muttered.

Surgeon tapped his chin before nodding. "No point in staying here waiting for either XCOM or your enemy to find us." He looked around, pulling out a small projector, which produced a map of the island. "Unlike the Bullet of Bullets, we can't see the exact location of everyone else at any point, but as you can all see, this tournament is planned to go long."

"Yeah, this map much bigger than the ones from before," Lion observed. "I guess they didn't want it to end as quickly as the previous ones."

"The island is almost 50 square kilometers," Surgeon said. "It's basically mostly jungle in there except for a few places of interest, like the abandoned small town, the school and the lighthouse. We could bunker up there but it would be too obvious and most likely one of the first places both XCOM and the enemy will check."

"So the jungle?" Heavy Collar asked. "We seem to do a lot of shooting in jungles."

Surgeon nodded. "Either through fate or luck we've ended up like that, but in this case it's an advantage. We are more familiar with this type of territory, where XCOM has done more urban settings for the tournament. The main differences this time are that we're surrounded by water instead of a map barrier; we have a lot more terrain to work with, and there's plenty of places to hide." He smirked. "If this game follows the same pattern as the ones before, XCOM is right on the other side of us."

Nightmare Moon nodded. "I suggest we message them if we can and warn them about the enemy, but they'll follow their standard procedure, which means we need to circumvent them."

Thunderbird blinked. "What?"

"Go around them," the Lion clarified.

"Oh."

"We also need to cover each other as we move," Surgeon continued. His finger traced a route on the holographic map, close enough to the shore but still within the cover of trees. It roughly followed the coast until it reached a river that went inward to a small lake. "We go here. It's very defensible, and if we make it there, we might find someplace to hide and wait for Nightmare Moon's friend to get in contact with us before moving forward."

Heavy Collar glanced over the map. "Yeah, I can see a few places where we could set a good ambush. If we can figure out a way to control the territory... maybe set some obvious traps so that they try to go around them instead of risking setting them off... yeah, that could work." He gave Surgeon a look. "It's not going to be as effective as your original plan, however. I don't think hunkering down is going to stop XCOM."

"It's better than running around with an unknown monster ready to pounce on us," Surgeon replied, turning off the map. "At least as fast as XCOM moves, they will be expecting us to move cautiously rather than fast, and if it's a huge creature like the one from before... well, a defensible position is better than out in the open." He started walking. "Come on, we the sooner we get there the quicker we can take control of the area."

Princess Luna emerged from the statue outside of Canterlot High, quickly gaining her balance. Taking a deep breath, she rehearsed what she needed to do in her mind and started walking.

"Luna?"

She stopped and turned around. "Principal Celestia!" she gasped, then smiled. "Truly the fates smile upon us today." She stepped up to the befuddled headmistress and took her hand. "We must make haste. Is there any way to contact Twilight Sparkle?"

Shaking herself out of the surprise, Principal Celestia grimaced. "I'm sorry, it takes some getting used to having doubles," she confessed. "I thought you were my sister for a second."

Princess Luna smiled. "I consider you, Celestia and Luna my sisters," she said. "What else would we be?" She chuckled, before looking at Principal Celestia in the eye. "However, I am not here for a social visit, as ponies say these days. We have little time to lose, for our chance of saving Sunset Shimmer grows dimmer as we hesitate."

Principal Celestia blinked. "But I thought—"

"We all did," Princess Luna interrupted. "But our sister, Luna, made a new discovery and now is protecting what Princess Twilight and I believe to be Sunset's very essence."

"What do we need to do?" Principal Celestia asked, already guiding Princess Luna towards the parking lot.

"We need Twilight to take Sunset Shimmer to the Rainboom's concert and meet us there," Princess Luna explained. "Once that step is achieved, we can proceed with the plan."

Pulling out her cell phone and car keys, Principal Celestia unlocked the car and speed-dialed Twilight. As the phone rang, she and Princess Luna got in. She glanced at the princess. "It'll take them a little bit of time to get her out of the hospital even with the release papers and Cadance's help. Is there anything else we need?"

Princess Luna pondered before shaking her head. "Unless you know another source of Equestrian magic besides the Rainbooms, we don't have much of an option."

"I wonder..." Principal Celestia muttered.

With a final jump, Rainbow Dash landed, posing, as the echoes of their song faded around them. The crowd in front of them cheered, clapped, whistled and shouted in excitement.

Despite the weight of the last few days, she couldn't help but smile a little. 'Sunset would have enjoyed that one.' The smile faded.

She shook off her stupor when she heard surprised murmurs from the crowd. Frowning, she looked up, blinking in surprise when Principal Celestia, Luna and none other than The Dazzlings walked up to the stage.

"Um... what's going on?" Fluttershy squeaked, hiding behind Applejack, who frowned and exchanged worried glances with Rarity.

"That's what I want to know!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air in sheer frustration. "Why are you interrupting the concert?! And what are they doing here?!" she pointed at The Dazzlings with a disgusted sneer on her face.

"We missed you too, Rainbooms," Adagio said with a smug smile.

"Dazzlings," Luna spoke up, and Rainbow Dash realized this was not the Vice Principal. "If you want our agreement to remain, then you will comport yourselves in a fashion appropriate to the situation."

The three sirens cringed. "Y-yes, Princess," Sonata said meekly, while Adagio and Aria looked like they had swallowed something sour.

"We have come here to secure your help, and with the aid of the sirens, right a wrong that affects us all." Luna motioned at The Dazzlings. "The sirens have agreed to return to Equestria for trial and to rejoin our world as forces of good, rather than destruction."

Applejack cleared her throat. "No offense, your highness, but how exactly did you get them to agree to that?"

Princess Luna pondered. "Unless you know another source of magic besides the Rainbooms, we don't have much of an option."

"I wonder..." Principal Celestia muttered.

"Yes?" Princess Luna asked.

Principal Celestia shook her head, then frowned. "Well... there is someone... I'm not sure if they would be any help."

Princess Luna raised an eyebrow. "If we need to await for the hospital's release of Sunset Shimmer and her transfer to the festival, why not attempt to contact these potential allies?"

"There's nothing to lose, I suppose," Principal Celestia said, pulling out of the parking lot and taking off for the city. "Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer have always insisted on giving people second chances... but these girls were not allies of ours and attempted to control and corrupt several of us."

Luna said nothing for a few minutes, simply watching the other cars move about. "Everypony deserves a second chance," she said firmly. "If there's an honest wish to change, to become better... then we shouldn't deny it to them."

Principal Celestia simply smiled and kept driving until they reached a fairly nice apartment complex. "Apparently they've lived in this world so long they have amassed enough money to live comfortably despite everything. I... heard that they were exiled from your world a long time ago," Principal Celestia said, turning right. "By some wizard named 'Starswirled'?"

"Starswirl the Bearded," Princess Luna corrected with a nod. "Under our orders no less. I assume you speak of the sirens?"

"Goddess, I keep forgetting how ol—um, how long you and Princess Celestia have lived."

Princess Luna chuckled. "Indeed. A long time."

Principal Celestia and the princess stepped out of the car and approached the glass doors. Princess Luna watched as her sister's counterpart traced her finger down a list of names, and pressed a silver button.

"Are you sure you can convince them to help?"

Luna shrugged. "Tis their decision in the end. Alas, sirens are not meant to exist without external magic, and them remaining in this world will cut their lives short by several centuries as their bodies feed on their own magic in a futile effort to nurse their diminished magical essence. Something that will, inevitably, result in their untimely deaths."

They waited for a second before a voice answered. "No soliciting!"

Before the principal could say anything, Princess Luna stepped forth. "Adagio Dazzle," she spoke up, voice demanding attention. "This is Princess Luna, of Equestria. You will open this gate now and allow us into your home."

"OH GODDESS! THEY'RE HERE TO KILL US!"

Both the principal and the pony princess had to lean back from the shout, but Celestia recovered quickly. "Sonata, we're not here to kill you. This is Principal Celestia. Princess Luna has an offer for you three..."

"Indeed," Princess Luna affirmed. "'tis an offer you can't refuse."

Principal Celestia raised an eyebrow at that, but shook her head and spoke to the intercom again. "You'll want to listen to what she has to say, and you need to decide quickly."

"...and that," Princess Luna stated, "is how it happened."

"So basically, they help or they magically starve to death?" Rarity asked, glancing at the three sirens—now looking decidedly less smug than when they had arrived—with a little pity.

"That," Luna agreed with a soft smile, "and everypony deserves a second chance to do better."

The Rainbooms exchanged dubious looks, but shrugged. The Dazzlings stared at Luna with almost unreadable expressions, clearly unsure of how they should feel about her words.

"Okay?" Rainbow Dash asked. "So you got them to help. With what? Is there another monster coming around?"

Principal Celestia frowned. "Rainbow Dash, please don't be so hostile."

"Why not?" Rainbow asked, stepping back. "We already lost one of ours, I already messed up a friendship and now again we're thrown into some magical situation when the only thing we wanted to do was to sing for Sunset! Why can't anyone even respect that?!"

"Because it's for Sunset Shimmer that we are gathered here today," Princess Luna said firmly, hushing all the chatter as her voice carried through the small Amphitheater where the festival was taking place. "There is a chance to bring her back. With your help," she stated, looking at Rainbow straight in the eye, "and with theirs," she motioned with her hand at the sirens, "...and them," she motioned at the Rainbooms, "and finally, them." She moved back, allowing everyone to see Cadance, Lemon Zest and Twilight Sparkle pushing a wheelchair to which the unconscious body of Sunset Shimmer was strapped into.

"Sunset?" Rainbow Dash whispered.

"If you may, Twilight?"

Twilight Sparkle nodded and walked over to the side of the stage, fiddling with the computer there. The giant screen showing the stage behind the Rainbooms fizzled for a second, then their image was replaced by a group of people running through the jungle.

"Hey!" Sonata spoke up, grinning ear to ear. "It's the GGO finals! I had been watching that earlier! This is so cool!"

"What does that even have to do with why we're here?" Adagio asked, frowning at the screen.

"Aww, are you still sour because we lost to Team Surgeon?" Sonata teased, poking her sister on the ribs and making her jump.

"They cheated!" Aria muttered. "There's no way Nightmare Moon can move so quickly from the top of one tree to another!"

The trio stopped muttering and glanced at the stunned group around them.

"What?" Sonata asked, blinking. "You don't like GGO?"

"You—" Twilight shook her head. "Never mind," she sighed. "Princess, what do we do now?"

Princess Luna looked around. "Hark, for all your efforts together are needed," she declared. "We shall open a portal back into Gun Gale, and allow Sunset's body to cross. She needs to meet with Nightmare Moon and the Surgeon, for them to unite her soul, magic and body once more."

"But, without the diary I can't do that," Twilight Sparkle said nervously. "I don't even know how to control my magic without a computer to guide me." She felt a hand rest on her shoulder and give it a comforting squeeze.

"Fear not, Science Twilight," Luna said with a grin. "That is indeed where we," she motioned at herself and the sirens, "'step in', as you say in this age."

She looked at the Rainbooms. "If you wish to save your friend, this is your chance. You must sing from the heart; project as much magic as you can through your song." She turned to the sirens. "You will channel the raw magic, and focus it with your own voices... and you will resonate with my song, which will transform the energy into a source of power for Twilight.

"Once Twilight opens the portal, Principal Celestia and Cadance will push Sunset Shimmer through it, where Nightmare Moon already awaits her arrival."

Luna took a deep breath. "We have but one chance to do this, do not waste it."

"No pressure," Aria whispered.

"It doesn't matter," Rainbow Dash replied, walking to stand next to them. "We have a chance to bring our friend back... and you have a chance to change your lives. Whatever the cost, we will meet it."

Chapter 31: Hunter

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 31: Hunter

The team ran fast around the coast. The island was large... definitely a much bigger battlefield than ever before. Had circumstances been different, Nightmare Moon was sure they would be having a lot of fun at this time.

She had visited the Caribbean once, a while ago with Celestia and the whole place brought back memories of their small adventure there. It almost made her wonder, looking at the waves crashing onto the rocks, the sounds... to not only see and hear all of that, but to be able to feel the breeze, smell the flowers, feel the warmth of the sun... how far was this whole place from being an actual, different reality?

When had games become so realistic that with a tweak of sorts you could actually live inside of them in a manner of speaking. That had happened with the SAO incident. The players still needed intravenous nourishment, but had otherwise been able to live for all intents and purposes. The details of what had happened exactly were kept from the public, but certain things, such as some users setting up towns and dedicating themselves to fishing and discovering new recipes that actually tasted like real food and that had carried on to the new games—that's why the bars were so popular in GGO, after all.

They could all feel a dull sensation when hit by a bullet, although it was still nothing like what Mirage felt—not to mention it actually affected her body in the real world—how long would it take for things like these to turn into something outside of their computerized constraints?

They slowed down when Surgeon gave the signal, then followed a river deeper into the jungle. Nightmare Moon snapped her thoughts away from her musings into the here and now. At any time they could be attacked by XCOM or whatever it was that had been following her.

She watched as Thunderbird, Coyote and Heavy Collar ran ahead, scouting the area around them before giving the go-ahead by radio. So far there were very few cameras on them, which was fine by her.

When the sound of a distant explosion made them all jump into cover she took a deep breath and quickly climbed up a tree pulling her sniper rifle out and looking down the scope into the distance.

"Nothing from south, south west where we came from," she informed over the radio. "North east, however... I see a cloud of smoke as well as random flashes of guns being fired. I think XCOM found whatever it was that was hunting me."

"Roger that," Surgeon replied. "At least we have their position now. I don't think either them or your pursuer will bother circling us... any good areas to set up base?"

It took her a second to realize he was talking to the scouts, and sure enough Coyote's voice replied a moment later. "Creo que si. I found a little valley, East of our position, then slightly North. It's on the side of a small mountain."

"I can see it," Nightmare Moon reported, centering her scope on the area. "Or part of it."

"Let's take a look then," Surgeon said, motioning for her to come down.

It took them a few minutes to reach the place Coyote had found. The way up was fairly narrow and clear of trees or cover of any sort. The river flowed down the center of the path, the clear water reflecting the sun above them.

"Man, this place is awesome," Thunderbird whispered in awe.

When they arrived at the top, Nightmare Moon immediately saw why Coyote had chosen this place and could only agree with Thunderbird's declaration. "I agree... we can control a lot of combat situations from here."

The site had a small lake created by a waterfall that mysteriously emanated out of the rocky mountain behind it and reached the edge of the valley, naturally flowing down from there becoming the river they had been following into the jungle.

There were several rock outcroppings and some large trees around the lake, giving them plenty of cover if needed.

"And that's not the best part," Coyote said, motioning for them to follow. He walked around a large rock outcropping and disappeared.

"What the hell?!" Thunderbird gasped.

"Easy, chamaco," Coyote said, grinning as he looked out from the rocks. "It's just a trick from the angle you're standing on. Check it out."

Nightmare Moon walked around and saw a small, partially hidden entrance to a cavern. Walking in, she followed Coyote through a short tunnel into a larger cavern, which was hidden behind the waterfall.

"This... this is perfect!" Nightmare Moon gasped. "We can get Mirage back here!"

Surgeon nodded. "Then do what you must do. Coyote, Heavy Collar, I want you two to set up a LOT of traps on the way up here and create a perimeter. I'm going to look around and formulate the best defensive positions for all of us. Lion, you're on guard duty next to the way up while they work." He glanced at Thunderbird. "Since you have some of the highest agility here, I want you to head down and north-east. Scout ahead and keep an eye out for whatever came here after Nightmare Moon and XCOM. Don't engage, just contact me if you see them, okay? Check-in when you reach the Jungle, and then every five minutes."

Thunderbird gulped and nodded, running out, followed by the others.

Nightmare Moon took a deep breath and gave a thumbs up to the few cameras that had been following them.

Although the change had been unusual, the crowd at the Summer Competition had simply assumed that the video on screen was some sort of intermission, giving the girls time to organize themselves and discuss several things. Among them, the Siren's involvement with GGO.

"Wait. So you're saying you were part of The Kings?" Twilight asked.

"What? How?" Rainbow Dash spoke up.

"Yeah!" Sonata grinned. "I'm Rampage in the game, Adagio here is Recoil!"

The GGO-savvy girls turned to look at Aria.

"I was Longshot. Not that it matters, what I want to know is... what the hay is that thing?" Aria asked as the large TV focused on the battle happening between XCOM and some... creature. "I thought there were no mobs in any of the maps for the competition."

"There aren't," Twilight said. "That thing is chasing after Nightmare Moon and Team Surgeon. But now that they've set up base..."

"You have to wonder why the hell they don't stop this whole thing when it's clearly out of their control," Adagio muttered.

Twilight adjusted her glasses. "It's probably related to their PR. Most people don't know it isn't planned, so they—"

"It was a rhetorical question, Sparkle."

"'tis time for us to act," Luna said, keeping an eye on the computer. "My sister has given us the signal. Bring over Sunset. Twilight, are you ready?"

"A-are you sure this is the only way?" Twilight asked Princess Luna. "I hate to admit it, but I'm not very good in front of crowds and... well that's a very, very big crowd."

"Don't worry, Twi," Lemon Zest said, giving her girlfriend an encouraging hug. "We're here with you."

"Twilight," Princess Luna said, drawing their attention to the screen, which she was gesturing at with her hand. "Look at them. They're fighting to protect Sunset. You can't be there with them, given the rules of the contest... We have to do what we can now, from this side. Draw strength from all of us if you must, but do not forget your own, inner strength. Loyalty. Honesty. Laughter. Generosity. Kindness..." She poked Twilight lightly on her chest. "Magic. All of these reside within all of us. The elemental magic which your friends here have been exposed to will resonate with yours with the help of the Dazzlings. I will guide you. Fight your fear."

The Rainbooms and sirens took their place on either side of Twilight and Luna while the crowd muttered in confusion at this turn of events. They quieted down when the music started.

Pinkie started the beat with a slow-paced march of drums. The rest of the Rainbooms looked at each other and nodded resolutely before they started following the rhythm with short strums of their guitars, leading the music into a slow, almost ballad-like sound.

Rainbow Dash took the microphone and looked at the crowd as the music washed over them all. "Sorry for the delay guys! Have you been having fun watching the GGO finals?! Have you enjoyed the music so far tonight?"

The crowd roared in response, moving closer together now that the music was back and people were concentrating on the stage itself once more.

"This song is dedicated to a friend of ours... you can see her right here, i-in the wheelchair." Rainbow Dash blurted out, swallowing a sudden lump in her throat. "She can't hear us... you see, she fell into a coma after she saved our lives. Those of you from Canterlot High know what I'm talking about."

The crowd hushed, but here and there a few shouts of "Sunset!" sprung out from within it.

"So we want to thank her! And we wrote a song, kinda last minute, so it's not one of our best, and it's as cheesy as it gets, but do you want to hear it?!"

The crowd once more chanted their approval with an animated: "Sunset! Sunset!"

Aria licked her lips. She could already feel the energy levels rising. "Note to self: Offer job of hypegirl to Rainbow Dash if she'll take it." She ignored the dirty looks from the Rainbooms around her.

"Anyway! It's an easy song, nothing and here it goes!" Rainbow announced, placing the mic back in the stand and starting to play her guitar.

Watching you fight

Stepped away from the light

Into another world

I didn't know

I didn't care

As your worries unfurled

Rainbow waited a beat before calling out:

I wanna take it back!

The sirens and Rainbooms chorused Rainbow Dash as the crowd cheered, clapped and shouted, and those on stage could see a cloud of energy already forming there. She grinned and continued singing, guitars suddenly burst through the sad undertone like an explosion of sound, timed perfectly with the light of the Rainbooms Ponying up. The sirens themselves had trails of energy forming around them, like multicolored will-o'-the-wisps. Their translucent wings formed behind them, and their voices rose with power and magic as their energies were replenished.

Rainbow Dash only hoped their music and their magic could help her friend.

"The traps are all set, Surgeon," Heavy Collar said over the radio. "I also did the ones you asked on the front of the cavern."

"Mine too," Coyote added a second later. "Neither XCOM or the thing will know what hit them."

"Speaking of that," Thunderbird's voice reached them. "I have a visual."

There was a moment of silence.

"What does it look like?" Nightmare Moon asked.

They could hear Thunderbird gulping. "I-it looks like some sort of werewolf, like in the movies but... it's all made of shadows, except for the eyes. They're red and glow in a weird way. It's headed down south, but I don't think it knows where we are located yet. I don't know what happened to XCOM."

"Keep shadowing it," Surgeon ordered. "And keep an eye out for XCOM, they can't be gone or we would have automatically won the contest."

"Roger that."

"Let's hope your friends do what they need to do to help us, Moon," Surgeon muttered.

Twilight Sparkle closed her eyes. The magical energy harmonized exactly as Princess Luna had said it would. The Dazzlings' modulation of the energy made it resonate within her with each key pressed by Rarity like a twitch of her fingers, each beat of the drum beating alongside her heart, each strum of the guitars sending chills up her spine, the shake of the tambourine... each and every instrument and voice built power within her. A power she was very familiar with.

A sudden moment of panic hit her. 'What if I fail? What if I fall into my demon form again and I—' She stopped when she felt a firm hand on her shoulder and looked up to see Princess Luna smiling encouragingly at her.

"Don't be afraid. The magic is yours to command, and I will be right here helping you guide it," the pony princess-turned human promised. "Now, save your friend."

Twilight nodded and, in front of a huge screen showing a battlefield; in front of a band performing; in front of a magical event beyond her experience... fueled by hope, love and friendship... in front of a a live crowd, extended her arms and forced the universe to open like she had while in-game.

And the universe opened up. A swirling mass of energy that had a twin appear at the same time next to the fighting groups in the screen. "Now!"

Immediately Cadance and Lemon Zest pushed Sunset, wheelchair and all into the vortex. The crowd gasped and then cheered madly when Sunset disappeared and reappeared in the world shown on screen.

The portal opened like a pink and purple circular scar in the air, hovering for a few seconds before disappearing in a burst of light that reformed into Sunset Shimmer's body. It hovered in place for a moment before collapsing into the waiting arms of Nightmare Moon.

"She's here!" the sniper called into the radio.

"Well, get started," Surgeon ordered. "We'll make sure she's protected."

"Se dice facil!" Coyote's voice responded on the radio. "I don't think the creature knows where we are exactly, so don't draw too much attention!"

"Scratch that!" Thunderbird interrupted. "It just did a turn. I think it felt Mirage arrive!" His declaration was followed by a stream of swearing from the whole team.

"We need to cover them!" Surgeon's voice cut through the noise. "Lion, you set up behind the large rock on the left of the way up. Moon, you need to do what you have to do then join the fight. Coyote and I have a clear sight of where it is coming—heading straight for Heavy Collar's traps."

"This is going to light up the jungle like a second sun," Heavy Collar quipped.

"Acknowledged," Nightmare Moon responded, fishing the egg out of her inventory.

A strong, angry roar emerged from the jungle.

"It senses it!" Nightmare Moon warned, carefully placing the egg on top of Sunset's chest. The artifact slowly started to spin and glow, levitating a couple of inches from Sunset's body and releasing little bubbles of light that rained on top of the still body, seeping into the comatose girl who also rose up in the air a little over a foot. "It's working! But it's going really slow!"

"You'll have to leave it to do its work," Surgeon ordered. "Get out of there before the creature arrives. There's a nook a few feet right of where the waterfall comes out of the mountain. I think it's perfect for you to nest and be ready to take your shot."

"Guys, it's almost there!" Thunderbird warned. "Should I take a shot?"

"No," Surgeon ordered, "follow it until it reaches the traps! If it has high stats that's when we'll be able to do the most damage, especially if it's magical."

"Roger that!"

Nightmare Moon was barely paying attention to the conversation. She glanced nervously at Sunset's body then grimaced and ran into the side cavern. When she emerged, she immediately headed up to the little niche Surgeon had mentioned.

"Heavy, did you plant the explosives on the entrance to the cave?" Surgeon's voice came over the radio.

"Yeah, I got them."

"When your traps activate, I want you to take advantage of the confusion and collapse the entrance to the cave," he said.

"Um guys?" Thunderbird's voice sounded very nervous. "XCOM is right behind that thing. And they seem to be missing some people. I only count 4 of them."

An even longer string of swearing followed that declaration.

Nightmare Moon grimaced at Surgeon's vocabulary. It was a good thing they were not in the middle of her school or she would have him in her office so fast he'd leave skid-marks. "Surgeon! Concentrate! Can we change our plans to include them?"

"We don't have time," Surgeon's voice was strained. "Thunderbird. Find a way to distract them without hopefully taking them on. If we can take down the monster in one shot, we might stand a chance against them. Get ready, everyone."

Nightmare Moon kept an eye on the edge of the jungle. That's when she saw it. Thunderbird's description was close, but it didn't do justice to the creature. It did look like a bipedal werewolf made of shadows, seeming to blur in place constantly. She could see a more solid head turning this way and that, but on its wake, almost like an after image, another wispy head would form, snapping and growling. Shadowy energy seeped from the creature, making the area around it shimmer and distort... and the sight of it made Nightmare Moon feel a tinge of fear and the now-familiar echo of magic scratching at her senses.

"Guys, that thing is magical. Its defenses are going to be sky high," she whispered into the radio.

"I figured," Surgeon muttered. "But there's nothing we can do about that. Even with the other magical creatures we faced, they still had weak points, so hopefully what we have set up will work."

"Here it comes!" the Lion shouted.

The creature moved fast, but a second later the area around it became a miniature sun, making Nightmare Moon gasp and activate a filter to see through it. Bright green fire from plasma mines licked around a fireball that had erupted under the creature's feet. It was blasted side to side, up and down and soon the whole area was riddled with bullets from Lion's minigun, the gatling-gun spinning at full 4k rpm, all four thousand bullets-per-minute concentrating on the location of the creature.

Nightmare Moon kept careful track of the silhouette inside the explosions, ready to shoot when they died down, but Heavy Collar's voice stopped her. "Wait until I say shoot, Moon."

"Are you sure?!"

"Positive."

Surgeon and Coyote also fired their weapons as explosion after explosion rocked the mountain itself. Finally, the last explosion died off, revealing the severely torn, but still-standing shadow creature. It was missing an arm and half of its abdomen, but somehow it still stood.

It paused and its shadowy lips pulled back, revealing white fangs in what could only be described as a smile.

"Heavy?"

"Wait for it..."

The creature leaned forward and shot up again, moving at full speed straight for Lion.

"Heavy?!"

"Wait for it!"

And just as it landed in front of the Heavy Class fighter, a flash and light blue smoke exploded around it, clearing up a few seconds later to reveal a frozen-solid creature, claws a mere inch away from Lion's face.

"Now!" Heavy Collar shouted as Lion scrambled back in a panic.

Moon's shot sounded like thunder, cracking and echoing like the shout of an angry god. The frozen creature's head exploded into chunky pieces, followed seconds later by the rest of its body when the others opened fire on it.

Nightmare Moon sighed, pulling her rifle up and leaning her head against it. "We won." She looked down at the group and flashed them a thumbs-up and a grin.

Maybe now Sunset would finally be back and they could put this whole thing behind them...

The radio crackled. "Guys!" Thunderbird's voice came through. "That thing! It can regenerate from nothing! XCOM took it down earlier and it came back as if nothing had happened!"

Nightmare Moon took aim as fast as she could, but it was too late.

The creature was up again, as if their whole fight had not happened at all. Its claws were wedged deep into Lion's chest and it looked straight at her as it attempted to rip the player in half. Lion gasped, but managed to kick back and roll, just in time to avoid being split by the claws.

"You stole my property, girl." The creature's voice echoed in the little mountain valley, raspy and amused. "Now you must all pay the price."

"That was never your property!" Nightmare Moon shouted, shooting another blast straight through the creature's chest, leaving a wide, gaping hole in it, which disappeared when it waved its claw in front of it.

"You cannot win. You can only die here and live your 'real' life with the knowledge of your failure today!

Nightmare Moon didn't move, keeping her sight on the monster. Below, Surgeon, Coyote and Heavy Collar ran behind better cover.

"You can't possibly want to take the life of a young woman for this!" Nightmare Moon replied angrily.

"She's not even human," the creature replied. "She's something else pretending to be one, pretending yet again to be one in a game. Once her power is mine, I will breach the worlds apart and reveal to the world the multiverse that we have created!"

Nightmare Moon was visibly seething at the creature's disregard for Mirage. She was about to reply when a powerful blast tore through the monster as if it was made of paper. It flew a few feet and landed face down on the shore of the lake.

"That thing is annoying," Butcher stated, keeping his legendary alloy cannon trained on the creature, as it started to stand again. "Surgeon, how about we call a truce while we deal with our unwanted guest? We can shoot each other to death later."

Surgeon chuckled. "Only if you think you can keep up with my team."

With sharp signals of his hand, Butcher spread what was left of his team around. Rock, their large, shield-wielding tank ran up to stand next to Coyote, pulling out a handgun, while Sukiru dashed up a tree and from there jumped onto a small ledge on the side of the mountain, from where she could snipe freely with her anti materiel rifle.

Butcher himself took cover behind some rocks, while Wallflower crouched behind cover, close to where Surgeon stood. Striker, their close combat specialist joined Heavy Collar, alongside Thunderbird, who gave his team a victory sign.

"So both teams are here." The creature chuckled, standing up and looking at the thousands of floating camera links. "This is perfect. The world will now see what I can do with this power." It lowered its eyes, looking back at the gathered gunslingers.

"Let's do this," Nightmare Moon growled, taking the shot.

Chapter 32: Rise

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 32: Rise

Can you feel it?

Something stirred. It wasn't a body, however. She knew that.

So what was it?

Rhythm. Beating around her. Shaking the world. Strumming the darkness. Giving voice to the silence.

Movement. A sense of... of what? Weightlessness when there was no weight?

"She's here!"

Humidity. Warmth. The sounds of... of... nature? What was it?

"Well, get started. We'll make sure she's protected."

Water. It was water rushing. Falling. It had a name.

"Se dice facil! I don't think the creature knows where we are exactly, so don't draw too much attention!"

A waterfall. Urgency. Worry.

"Scratch that! It just did a turn. I think it felt Mirage arrive!"

Fear. A name. So familiar. Not her name. And yet...

"This is going to light up the jungle like a second sun."

Not a sun. Something to do with it... not dawn or twilight...

"It senses it!"

Light and warmth. Air. Earth.

"It's working! But it's going really slow!"

Concern. Love. Fear. So much fear.

"You'll have to leave it to do its work.

No... loneliness was not welcome again. Not alone again...

The creature dodged.

While it wasn't impossible for players or monsters to dodge bullets in GGO, this took everyone by surprise. Unlike a real gunfight, the game would allow players to see "prediction lines" once certain criteria was met. Those prediction lines allowed them to move before the shot was fired, therefore extending gameplay time and giving everyone a chance to survive.

The problem was that the creature dodged after the shot was made by a sniper rifle before the criteria for its prediction line appearing at a speed that shouldn't be possible for a monster to react to.

It moved fast, dodging most of the following shots by the surrounding gamers, and just as it slid to a stop in front of Coyote and Rock, raising its claws and opening its maw to destroy them, Wallflower seemed to materialize out of thin air right next to it, her Alloy Cannon pressing against its skull for a second before it was blown to pieces.

As the creature's body shook from the impact, Wallflower jumped out of the way, allowing Rock and Coyote to take the chance to empty their magazines on its body while retreating.

"I get the feeling that this creature doesn't know how to play," Surgeon whispered over the radio.

"I don't know if it needs to," Butcher replied. "It's already reforming. We gave it all we got back in the jungle and it still managed to kill Surial and Ripp3r. Damn thing won't stay down!"

A loud shot prefaced the creature's knee exploding in a splash of blood and bone fragments, courtesy of Sukiru's anti materiel rifle, while Nightmare Moon's second shot smashed onto its shoulder, spinning it in place... but the creature's lower head, half reformed already seemed to smile in her direction.

"Don't stop firing!" she shouted. "That thing has magical immunities!"

Explosions and salvo wiped out the area where the creature had been standing mere seconds before, drowning the sound of the challenging roars coming from all players as they gave their all trying to bring the creature down.

The lake shook with each explosion; pieces of rock and vegetation flew out as anything within the fallout area was decimated as thoroughly as the game would permit.

Rock took shot after shot at where the creature had been standing last, withstanding the buffeting with his riot-shield, and as immovable as his namesake, so it came as a shock to him when a black, shadowy figure emerged from the fire, fully formed and apparently ignoring the damage they were all raining on it.

Grinning widely, showing almost green-glowing fangs, the creature's claws ripped through his shield as if it was just for decoration, and through his arm, disintegrating it from the elbow down.

"Hijo de p—" Coyote shouted in horror, jumping back, eyes wide as the follow up bite from the creature ripped Rock's head off in a shower of pixels. He fell back on his butt, staring with horror as the creature roared and turned slightly to him, drooling ethereal shadows that dissipated into the air around its mouth.

"Another one bites the dust..." the creature's voice was thick with amusement as it lounged forward.

Nightmare Moon cursed, aiming as fast as she could and releasing a bullet straight at the monster's head. "Coyote!"

Coyote didn't have time to react.

Moon's shot seemed to fly through the monster as if it wasn't even there, blowing a chunk off of the tree behind it just as its claw smashed straight through his armor and chest, emerging through his back like something out of a horror movie.

"Anything to say?" the creature asked, lifting him up to stare at the dying player with its disturbing grin.

Coyote coughed and shook his head, raising his fist up in front of the creature with a painful smile, then opening his hand to reveal several pins.

"Boom, you sonnuva—"

The fireball hadn't even died down when the creature had emerged from the fire, already regenerating the edges of its frame.

With a cackling, almost maniacal chuckle, the wolf-monster rushed towards Wallflower, who was joining The Lion at that moment.

The laser, plasma and elemental minigun ripped through the creature's legs, splashing shadow-like miasma behind it as it forced itself to move forth, regenerating its appendages almost as quickly as they were being blown apart.

That, however, was enough for Wallflower to change directions, circling the creature to the right, while Striker ran from behind the Lion and around the left, splashing into the lake up to his waist before shooting his shotgun at point blank on the monster's chest, making it stagger back and even retreat a couple of steps between the barrage of rays, the punching power of the shotgun and the powerful shots from Wallflower's unique weapon.

Seeing this, they kept shooting, but although the had managed to halt its movement, it was clearly not enough, and the moment that the Lion's minigun stopped, they were most likely dead.

The creature hesitated, ceasing its movements towards the fighters, and ignoring the continuing damage and it being pushed back in order to look up in clear confusion.

The sky had lit up with an effect akin to the aurora borealis. Waves of multicolored light shimmered above them all, and even through the rain of bullets, lasers and explosions, the fighters were able to hear something…

"What the hell is that?" Butcher asked. "Is that singing?"

Luna's eyes were wide. "It's the Rainbooms, but why—watch out!"

Lion's minigun had finally overheated and had stopped automatically.

As distracted by the music and lights as the creature was, the moment it felt the barrage cease, it shot forward like a bullet, ignoring the two close fighters and clearly intent on destroying the heavy weapon user.

Lion scrambled back, desperately changing the configuration, but it was too late. Claws rushed down in a vicious double-swipe, ready to turn him into mincemeat.

But something happened that no one was expecting.

The claws bounced back from a chromatic shield that had formed around Lion for just a second, making the creature's arms bounce back with as much force as it had applied, making it raise its arms almost comically as its red and green eyes widened.

Lion took the chance to jump back as much as he could (which was considerable, given his in-game strength), crouch down and shower the undefended belly of the creature with bullets, making it howl in surprise and more importantly, pain.

"We're doing damage!" Surgeon shouted into the radio. "Wallflower, Striker… keep hitting it hard! Thunderbird is almost here and will support you! Sukiru, Moon, are you ready to take your shots?"

"They won't work!" Sukiru replied.

"She's right," Moon added. "Our shots go through it and it regenerates so fast they're almost pointless!"

"Well, don't you have explosive rounds?" Butcher asked, jumping into the radio conversation.

"Yessir!"

"I do!"

"Well then," Surgeon asked. "What are you waiting for? Blow it's damned head off!"

In the combat zone, the creature roared and swiped at the close combatants, but its claws bounced from similar shields each time.

"What is happening?!" The creature growled. "How are you able to generate those shields! They're not part of the game system!"

"I don't know," Wallflower remarked, smashing its face with the butt of her weapon as she reloaded it. "But you can be damn sure we'll make the most of it!"

"Incoming!" Moon shouted on the radio.

Striker and Wallflower jumped back just as two powerful shots rang across the valley.

Two holes, one on the shoulder, the other above the stomach appeared on the creature, bigger than the bullets from the minigun for just a second before both exploded, making the water around the creature splash all over.

Earlier

The crowd gasped in horror when all of Coyote's explosives went off, enveloping him and the creature in flames.

While the crowd was entranced by the battle on the giant screen, the Rainbooms and company huddled together.

"This is not good," Aria stated. "They're dropping like flies."

"There's nothing we can do though," Twilight lamented, sitting down on a chair. "We can't access our accounts and join the battle, and going in ourselves would be suicide."

Rarity crossed her arms and rubbed her elbow, looking at the screen with a grimace. "I just feel awful that we can't do anything for them, darling. You do remember that they all came to this world and saved us..."

Fluttershy and Pinkie nodded.

"Yes, it was very intense and dangerous!" Fluttershy added. "If Mr. Surgeon hadn't saved Sunset at that moment, I don't think any of us would be here."

"Well, Ah think it's just a damn shame that they don't have a way to fight magic," Applejack pointed out. "Seems to me that they had things under control until that thing started cheatin'."

"There's simply no weapons or stats for that," Sonata added. "When Avalon announced that monster that appeared over Glocken... I could feel it, even in-game. The magic stat just made our weapons useless."

"Hey..." Rainbow Dash spoke up suddenly. "What if... what if they didn't have to fight with such a big handicap?"

The girls, Principal, Princess and the sirens all looked at Rainbow Dash in confusion.

"What do you mean, Rainbow Dash?" Princess Celestia asked.

"What I mean is... how about we pony up... and use Twilight, Luna and the Sirens here to transfer our magic to them?" Rainbow Dash explained. "Wouldn't that even things up a little?"

When she was met with silence and stares, she fidgeted self-consciously. "What?"

"We just never thought you'd think about something like this on your own," Aria stated bluntly when she noticed everyone else hesitating.

Rainbow Dash's face went red when she saw the others nodding sagely. "I'm not dumb!"

Principal Celestia's hand on her shoulder stopped her from ranting further. "We never thought that, Rainbow Dash. I'm very proud that you stopped to think about things and figured out a way we could help despite the urgency of the situation."

"Um... thanks? I guess?"

"But how are we going to do that exactly?" Applejack asked. "It's not as if we can simply send the magic by itself."

Rainbow Dash smiled and grabbed her guitar. "Twilight, make sure that you're ready to open a portal. Princess—"

"I understand your plan, Rainbow Dash," Luna said with a smile. "Let's show that monster what we're capable of."

Lion's minigun slowed down to a stop, glowing red and smoking a little. Wallflower, Striker and Thunderbird—who had just arrived—were ready to act.

The cascade of water finally settled and there was no sign of the creature but a twisted claw sticking out of the slowly swaying water.

The combatants gave each other uncertain looks.

"Stay away," Surgeon ordered. "It hasn't pixelated. It's not dead."

As if his words had indicated the start of a reaction, the clawed, shadowy hand clenched into a fist and the water exploded once more as the creature reformed, faster than ever before. But it didn't move, simply glaring at the gunslingers around it, seeming to breathe hard.

"Enough!" it growled as the shadow miasma around it slowly expanded, along with its body growing until it was doubled in size. The werewolf-like creature bent forward, howling as its back seemed to rip and two shadowy, dragon-like wings, dripping tar-like liquid that sizzled whenever it touched anything emerged from it.

The creature stood straight again, roaring into the sky and opening its arms to the sides as its claws grew much longer and sharper-looking.

"No more games!"

With a mighty leap, the creature shot forward, one claw descending on the Lion with unprecedented force and speed.

The heavy fighter braced himself, managing to lift his minigun up to attempt a block. For a split second, the chromatic shield appeared, but it burst into pieces under the strength of the creature's sweep. It sliced through the minigun and through Lion's armor as if they weren't even there, and Lion barely managed to survive as a big piece of his chest exploded into pixels.

If the barrier and minigun hadn't been on the way as he jumped back, there was no doubt he would have been turned to shreds.

A hole appeared on the back of the creature, and then exploded, making its body ripple with the forces going through it, but this time it didn't seem to affect it, other than making it turn in a fury to look at Nightmare Moon, who had just made the shot.

"Die!"

Nightmare Moon watched the horrifying monster take off and fly towards her at an incredible speed. There was nowhere to go for her from her niche. The shields that had magically appeared around them were apparently not enough to stop the creature.

This was it.

Claws flew down as the shouts from the others reached her from the radio, but Nightmare Moon couldn't move. The creature's eyes were mesmerizing, full of hate… completely inhuman.

It was then that a blast of fire exploded right in front of the shadow creature, sending its massive frame skidding on the lake until it crashed against one of the large rocks on the shore, making it sizzle with its wings' acidic drippings.

The world seemed to slow down as a figure emerged from right under Nightmare Moon.

The curtain of the waterfall sizzled and dissipated as it walked through, flaming wings too hot for the water to even affect them. A fiery, sharp horn glowed with fire and light on the figure's forehead and two red pony ears emerged from her red and yellow hair.

Nightmare Moon's heart stopped for a short second as her eyes watered up. "It's you…" she whispered.

"You're not laying a claw on any of my friends," Desert Mirage growled at the creature. Two flaming guns materialized and cooled down into metal within her grasp. "I'm going to feed you these bullets… and make sure you and your experiments never endanger any more lives!"

She pointed her gun straight at the monster.

"Do you hear me?!" She asked, eyes blazing with anger and power. "This stops here and now, Sombra!"

Chapter 34: Reset

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 34: Reset

The crowd's reaction when the monster exploded into shiny pieces of data was deafening: they cheered and clapped, slammed their feet on the floor and jumped up and down, watching with wide eyes as the Rainbooms and extras finally put down their instruments and slumped down on stage, exhausted.

"Aaand that's a wrap," Pinkie muttered, forcing her face up from the drums with a tired smile and a thumbs up.

"Oh my," Fluttershy—who would have fallen over had Sonata not helped her stay on her feet—said, "I've never felt so tired after using our powers."

"'Tis the strain of transferring so much harmonic energy through Twilight's portals," Luna explained, helping Rainbow Dash and Applejack up. "You bathed your energy on all players in the field, and your will fought against Sombra's malevolence as surely as the brave warriors of GGO did."

"Well, I hope that it was enough, dear," Rarity muttered. "Because at this rate we wouldn't be able to strum a guitar, much less 'pony up'."

"You girls need to relax and maybe finish watching the finals," Principal Celestia said. "I need to check on Prof. Sombra. We don't know what happened to him."

"Verily, his fate remains unknown," Luna said, squaring her shoulders. "I shall accompany you in your investigation, while the girls and sirens rest."

"Yeah, let's go watch the finals!" Sonata said with a grin. "I want to see what team makes it to Japan!"

The music stopped completely, and so did the shimmering energy that had enveloped the group up to that point as one by one the little portals faded away into nothing, leaving the group of gunslingers wet, mentally exhausted, and wary.

Slowly they emerged from the water, from within the cave or in the case of Sukiru rustled from under collapsed rocks, gathering at the edge of the lake to look at the destruction and take a deep breath of wonder at having survived.

"Is that it? Is it gone?" Butcher asked, taking stock of who had survived and who hadn't.

"Yes, it's gone," Mirage said, dropping the diary through a small portal with a sigh. She caught a brief glimpse of Twilight Sparkle giving her a thumbs-up before it closed completely. She looked at the others. "I can feel the magic leaving this place already. Soon, it will be regular GGO."

Wallflower snorted. "As it should be. No offense Mirage, but this RPG is not supposed to have things like that in it. At some point it was going to break and possibly take us all with it."

Mirage cringed and nodded, silently blaming herself for all of this. They shouldn't have experimented. They should have just rolled with it. The worst that would've happened was some bruises, after all.

"It seems we're on equal numbers at this time." Sukiru's dry observation broke the awkward silence that had formed.

Heavy Collar shifted nervously, but Surgeon nodded. "Seems like it. And the fact that we're still on tournament time means one of our teams will have to win this."

Desert Mirage, Nightmare Moon, Surgeon and Heavy Collar were the only ones left of Surgeon's team, while Butcher, Wallflower, Sukiru and Striker were all that remained of XCOM. The two groups eyed each other, measuring their chances.

Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes. "After what we just went through we should all be declared the winners."

Butcher chuckled. "That won't work, remember the idea is to have a cross-server fight. If we all got declared winners it would just require another final, and that they won't do either."

Wallflower finally shrugged. "I say we choose a battlefield and meet there in a few minutes."

Surgeon nodded after getting confirming looks from the others. "Sounds good to me. There's an abandoned town not too far from here. How does that sound?"

Butcher smirked, leaning his gun on his shoulder. "Like fun. We'll meet you there."

XCOM made their way down the hill and soon disappeared into the jungle below, leaving what remained of Surgeon's team completely alone.

"So basically they get to set up base before we even get there?" Heavy Collar asked.

Surgeon nodded.

"They'll expect us to act as we usually do." Nightmare Moon pointed out. "Sneak in and find a place to set base then act. They know that our greatest strength is our teamwork."

"Is it?" Surgeon asked, looking up at the sky. "Maybe they expect us to come in, sneaking into position then take them all out. Which is why we won't do what we always do." He grinned at the others. "We've worked a lot on teamwork, but let's not forget where we all came from. And after what we just went through… I feel like just having fun."

Heavy Collar chuckled. "If that's the case, I have just the thing."

The town was not huge like the cities in other GGO areas, with the tallest building being nothing more than a three leveled office, but it still carried the post-apocalyptic feel of rushed evacuation. Downtown was a conglomeration of old buildings and shops split into small blocks. An abandoned park with a dried out fountain stood empty across from a boarded and half-collapsed movie theatre. Old vehicles remained parked on the sides of the streets; some of them rusted but otherwise whole, others overturned by either nature moving in with huge roots and cracks in the pavement, or possibly riots. Windows were dulled, broken, or covered in foliage while most of the paint on the walls had already washed off… but the middle of the street itself was fairly clear.

"I see them," Nightmare Moon said on the radio. "They're careful. I can't get a shot, but I saw some movement on the abandoned gas station, maybe a klick southeast from the office building. Red paint job on the upper half, collapsed sign."

"Any sign of Sukiru?" Surgeon asked.

Nightmare Moon shook her head, scanning the buildings and streets. "Not yet. Don't do anything stupid."

She could hear Mirage's chuckle. "I don't think we know how to operate otherwise."

"Let's do it!" Heavy Collar shouted.

Immediately after, a building exploded and collapsed.

Nightmare Moon frantically searched for any indication of the other sniper jumping to attention. A flicker of movement, and then she saw Butcher.

"Guys, I see Butcher, he's heading towards the explosion. I saw a shimmer of something… it's probably Wallflower, using her stealth clothes. Be careful."

"Keep looking for the sniper," Surgeon said. "Sukiru's the one that'll take us out if we're not careful."

"If you're done setting up, we should see her soon." Moon commented.

All she heard was a snort in response.

"Don't underestimate Wallflower, guys," Mirage's voice said on their earpiece. "There's a reason XCOM wasn't destroyed by Sombra earlier."

"Well, I see my opponent," Surgeon said. "Good luck."

Nightmare Moon scanned the buildings until she saw Surgeon standing across from Butcher on top of one of the smaller buildings. She scanned around, trying to see if she could pinpoint Sukiru, but the other sniper was probably doing the exact same thing. Whoever took the shot to kill one of their opponents—as long as it wasn't the other sniper—was dead.

"I'm confirming contact with Striker," Heavy Collar's voice buzzed into the coms. "He's not alone, though, one of my other traps just got disabled."

"Must be Wallflower…" Mirage's voice responded as Nightmare Moon moved her sights down to where Heavy had set up a dead zone. "Can't see anyone… wait, Striker at your 10, confirmed. Mirage?"

"On my way. Heavy, concentrate on Wallflower."

"As if I had a choice. At least Striker I can see coming."

"I'll keep an eye—" Nightmare Moon started to say before she was interrupted.

"No, you concentrate on finding Sukiru," Mirage ordered. "Don't worry about us, we'll manage. You both are the game changers here."

"Acknowledged." Nightmare Moon opened a private channel. "To be honest, I just want to go home. I don't care about this. We just got you back."

Mirage was silent for a little bit. "I know… but I want to finish this. Maybe it's selfish, but we made it all the way here and Sombra tried to ruin it for us. Just stopping now is like letting him win a little."

"You know that's not really true."

"No, I guess it isn't. But… I don't know when I'll be able to log in again, if ever," Mirage confessed. "I want to give a good last fight."

Nightmare Moon took a deep breath. "Chinese tonight?"

Mirage chuckled. "Just good company would be enough, but sure."

"Then let's finish this quickly." Nightmare Moon replied, setting herself up to look for the other sniper.

She just needed something. One mistake. The wrong angle. Changing positions. Reflecting light. Anything to catch the other sniper.

Mirage sneaked close to a wall, taking cover and keeping her senses going. Her mind, while scanning the area, was also divided. It was true that she had just been brought back to life less than an hour prior… in a sense, at least. And yet, she was still sticking to the game instead of going home, taking a shower and trying to forget about her ordeal.

There was definitely something wrong with her. Probably with everyone else remaining in the game. Normal people would have quit after that last battle, especially knowing there was a chance they would be affected in the real world. Normal people would be too exhausted, too bothered to care about a competition after that… but not them. They were again trying to shoot each other out of the server and go on to yet another competition.

Yet, she felt better than ever, and the thought of just stopping was—if not alien to her—implausible at least. This was something she loved, something that had kept her together through the hardest times… and something that she was not prepared to simply walk away from.

She paused. She had seen a shift in the shadows ahead. Mirage kneeled between a wall and a large bin, peering into the darkness ahead and ducked when she saw Striker sneaking out of a half-collapsed barber shop. She grinned, aiming her gun carefully and letting loose a single shot.

Striker reacted at the sound, turning around just in time to receive the shot to the forehead. Sunset silently cheered. "Gotcha!" she whispered, ready to move on.

"So it comes to this," Surgeon said, smirking at Butcher, who shrugged.

"Apparently so-a one on one," XCOM's leader said, tilting his head. "Are you sure you're ready for it?"

Surgeon pointed his semi at Butcher. "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't."

There was no signal. The pair simply shot in different directions, firing their weapons as they ran into cover. Rolling behind a concrete wall that was quickly becoming swiss cheese, Surgeon tossed a grenade over it in the direction the shooting was coming from before rolling to the other side of the wall and coming out shooting again.

The grenade didn't make it to Butcher without getting shot out of the air, but it proved useful, distracting XCOM's leader long enough for Surgeon to flank him. As Butcher whipped around to face him, he initially missed Heavy Collar jumping from another building onto the roof, ready to fire, but the movement alerted Butcher, who had half-turned and half-skipped sideways to avoid Surgeon's shots. But the trap was sprung: there was no way for him to take down Heavy Collar, who was already pressing down the trigger… or would have if his head hadn't been pierced cleanly by a sniper shot.

He hadn't even fallen on back before another shot echoed in the area and Sukiru's cover, along with half her torso, blew into pieces. The distraction had proven enough for Butcher to roll behind cover, and Surgeon followed suit, cursing his moment of weakness.

"Getting old, Surgeon?" Butcher called out.

"You wish!"

"Well you did miss a golden opportunity, I'm just concerned for your health."

"Keep jabbering, I'll make sure you're out soon enough!"

Nightmare Moon sighed before aiming her rifle to cover Mirage, but she couldn't see any sign of her. Either she had moved out of the street or… no, she would've known if she had been shot down.

She bit her lip and slid down from her perch, moving for her secondary location as quickly as she could. Right now they had a slight advantage, and it wouldn't last if she was made. She had to trust Sunset and Surgeon to keep themselves alive in the meantime.

She didn't get far before a shimmering from the side of the building made her stop. She barely had time to try and dodge when Wallflower appeared suddenly in front of her, chameleon cape fluttering around her as her special edition shotgun opened fire at point blank.

Once more in Celestia's car, Luna had time to ponder, which didn't get past the principal. "Something on your mind, Princess?"

Luna blinked and chuckled, realizing she had been spacing out. "My apologies, sister, my thoughts were indeed elsewhere." Leaning back on the seat and watching the vehicles pass, she smiled a little. "I was looking back on this creation the humans have brought… a world quite literally fed by dreams. My domain."

Celestia nodded wordlessly.

"'Tis true that, by expending some magical effort, I can take ponies into my dreams, or other pony's dreams. I did it before, for young Sweetie Belle. I barely need to think about it to jump from dream to dream, but…" Princess Luna sighed. "It gets lonely sometimes, even if I am surrounded by friends. In their dreams, I am nothing but a visitor or a wisp or a shadow."

Princess Luna was similar enough to her own human sister for Celestia to smirk knowingly. "But?"

"But… this shared dream experience…" Princess Luna looked up. "Something like this destroys those boundaries. Everypony in there is aware, awake and working together to make this shared dream richer."

"It seems to me," Celestia said as they pulled into the parking lot outside of Crystal High, "That you'd like to share this experience."

"By becoming what you call, a gamer?" Princess Luna pondered once more, looking out the window at the school. "Mayhaps." She sighed and unbuckled her seatbelt. "Mayhaps not. 'Tis been our experience so far that the technology of this world mixes poorly with magic. Too much of it and it might break."

Celestia patted Princess Luna's shoulder. "Maybe Sunset and Twilight will figure out how to make it work… but if you ever want to try, well, Luna and I do have sets you could use."

Princess Luna smiled back at her interdimensional sister. "I shall consider it." Her gaze went back to the school. "But for now, we have other matters to attend."

Celestia nodded and took the lead, walking into the mostly empty school with intense purpose. "I seem to recall the computer labs were over here."

Princess Luna sniffed and made a face. "Perchance we should simply follow the smell."

The pair approached the offices, where several people from the cleaning crew had gathered, staring fearfully at the closed door to Sombra's office.

"What happened here?" Celestia asked.

One of the employees turned around eyes wide. "Principal Celestia? Vice Principal Luna? What are you doing here?"

"Cadance asked me to check on things while she was otherwise engaged," Celestia replied smoothly. "We came in and immediately noticed the smell. What is the matter?"

Another janitor shifted in place uncomfortably. "We heard Professor Sombra shout and scream… it became really bad and then he just went quiet…"

Celestia shook her head. "Why haven't you gone in? Does anyone have the key?"

The gathered employees shifted nervously before one reached up with the key on hand. "We… we were afraid. Strange things have been happening in his office and… well, he ordered us to not open it ever, regardless of what we heard… he said he'd get us fired and that we'd never get a job in this state again if we did."

"Don't worry," Celestia said firmly. "I'll take responsibility for this."

She turned around, nodded at Princess Luna and unlocked the door. The smell, which was that of burned plastic was much stronger now and as soon as they opened the door, a dark cloud of acrid smoke spilled out onto the hallway, immediately setting off the fire alarm.

The Principal, the Princess and the janitors had to step away, coughing and with teary eyes to let the air clear out. When they were able to look inside, most of them recoiled, save for the Princess, who grimaced before stepping into the office.

"Call 911," Celestia ordered, following after Princess Luna after a bit of hesitation. "This is… horrible."

Luna shook her head. "'Tis the price he paid for meddling with forces he couldn't possibly comprehend."

Celestia looked at what remained of Sombra—half covered in molten cables, half burnt by the destroyed devices around him. His chest still rose with shivering, short gasps for breath; his hair had been mostly burned away when the NervGear had cracked and split in half, falling off his face and revealing eyes that stared blankly into space. Drool pooled on the side of his mouth and dripped onto the smoking carpet below… he was still breathing but of Sombra himself, little if anything truly remained.

"C-could something like that happen to Twilight or Sunset?"

Princess Luna pressed her lips, thinking for a moment before answering. "Nay, not… this bad. Certainly they could have had a horrible accident, as they almost did already when Sunset got trapped in her dream persona. However, most of this damage resonates within me… the real destruction to his mind and spirit was caused by his attempt to usurp the Equestrian magic that was not his. In that sense, neither Sunset nor Twilight would have suffered as badly, even if they could have lost a limb or two in that explosion caused by Sombra's greed."

She gave Celestia a level look. "Equestrian magic is not fond of being stolen, as your Twilight Sparkle found out."

Celestia nodded numbly, following Luna out of the office to let the police and paramedics in.

"Crap!" Mirage swore under her breath. She felt a pang of regret when she saw Nightmare Moon disappear from the map. It was down to her and Surgeon vs Butcher and Wallflower. Had it been anyone else she'd bet on her own team at this stage regardless… but against XCOM?

She took off towards Nightmare Moon's last known location. Luna was going to be pissed, that's for sure. She saw the area and—had a sixth sense not prompted her to drop to the floor into a rather wild slide—she would have ended up like the shredded wall behind her.

Her slide turned into a tumble-and-run. She didn't even bother to stop and aim before she was shooting in the general direction of where the attack had come from; Mirage's eyes were set on the nearest solid cover: a collapsed tree that had crushed several vehicles at some point in the past.

But knowing Wallflower, this was not going to turn into a shootout from cover. She ducked, still running and jumped up to the tree, releasing several shots from her guns at the shimmering figure that dodged from cover to cover, moving in her direction.

Wallflower was fast. In the blink of an eye she was crouching right in front of Mirage, cape blowing back and revealing the mercenary in all her deadly glory. The shotgun came up beneath Mirage's chin, but before the shot was made, she had already twisted out of the way and crouched.

When she attempted to shoot Wallflower at point blank, however, the shotgun's butt pushed the gun out of the way. Mirage's right hand went behind her head, taking a shot, but the angle of her was too awkward to score a direct hit.

The pair rolled away, breathing heavily and pointing their respective weapons at the other.

"So… that wasn't too bad…" Wallflower said with a grin.

"You killed Nightmare Moon, tho…" Mirage said, smirking back. "You know that means you're going down."

Wallflower arched an eyebrow. "You think you can take me on without magic?"

Mirage gave her a dirty look. "I don't use magic in here."

"Well then, you might regret that," Wallflower replied.

The pair stared at each other for a second longer and then jumped on different sides of the tree. Mirage wasted no time, tossing a grenade over it and taking off to the southwest end of town. She jumped up just in time as a powerful shot tore through the metal of an old mailbox she had used to push up.

Spinning in the air, she opened fire, the kickback from the guns shaking her arms with each pull of the trigger.

Below and behind her, Wallflower zig-zagged and rolled out of the way, avoiding the shots that blasted little craters into the pavement.

Tucking in, Mirage landed and rolled, ending on her back, quickly bringing her guns up straight at Wallflower's chest just as the shotgun stopped inches from her own. On the edge of her vision, a small decreasing number appeared and Mirage cursed in her head.

Triple digits.

"Well, it seems I got you."

"Dream on," Mirage growled. "At this distance you can't dodge either. You know it, or you would have taken your shot.

"I'm still in a better position," Wallflower started to say, but stopped when she felt the shotgun against the back of her head.

"That is debatable," Surgeon said. "Since I would have you where I wanted you… if he hadn't tagged along."

Mirage kept one gun on Wallflower, while her left arm aimed at Butcher, who was aiming directly at Surgeon.

The number kept decreasing.

"Surgeon…" Mirage warned. That number was getting way too small. What the hay was he thinking?

"I know." She could almost hear the smirk in his answer.

"It seems we're going to have to risk it," Wallflower spoke up. "As much as I like the idea of a Mexican Standoff, we can't keep this up until the end of time. This tournament has to end at some point."

Double digits.

"It's been fun," Surgeon spoke up. "It was an honor fighting your team, Butcher."

Butcher snorted. "Same. I didn't expect things to go how they went but but it was fun."

Single digits.

And then it made sense to Mirage.

"Dammit, Surgeon."

BOOM

Rainbow Dash stared in horror at the screen. "Oh, come on!"

Sonata, Aria and Adagio burst out laughing.

When the screen cleared, all that remained of the whole block where the last standoff had occurred was a smoking crater.

A fanfare played and golden words surrounded by sparks exploded on the screen:

Congratulations!

Winners: Team Surgeon

Winners: Team XCOM

Twilight got a text message, and after checking it, ran over to the computer. She logged in and soon a portal opened, allowing Sunset Shimmer to step out of the game world.

The girl blinked and stretched. Before chuckling. "Well, that was something."

"A tie?!" Rainbow Dash wailed. "After all of that? A tie!?"

Sunset sighed and collapsed on a chair. "Well, I wasn't expecting it either."

"Well, we're all here alive and well," Twilight said, taking off her own AmuSphere. "And that's what counts."

"Says you," Rainbow snorted. "Come on! Sunset, you could have taken them!"

Sunset chuckled. "I don't know about that."

Rainbow Dash sighed, sitting back.

Glancing at the pair, Rarity stood up. "Girls, why don't we go get Cadance? I'm sure Sunset is tired and needs her rest after all that she went through." She touched her forehead. "Why, after all we went through I'm already exhausted!"

"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea sugarcube," Applejack said, nodding. "Let's go get the van ready. Dash, why don't you hang out with Sunset while we do that?"

"Um… okay?"

They watched the girls usher the sirens out and after several encouraging smiles, they all left them alone in the room.

"So…" Rainbow Dash started, rubbing her arms. "You're a gamer, huh?"

Sunset nodded, looking down. "Yeah."

"That's… cool."

Sunset smiled a little. "You think?"

"No…" Rainbow Dash chuckled. "It was… awesome!" She looked up at Sunset. "You were awesome! I can't believe all the stuff you did! I can't believe how good you are at this game!"

Sunset scratched the back of her head, a bit embarrassed. "Sorry it distracted me from practice with you girls."

Rainbow Dash sighed, her enthusiasm quelled. "Yeah… don't worry about it. I'm sorry I made you feel like you couldn't tell us about it… or about your friendships, or the music you like and—"

She stopped when Sunset got up and sat next to her. "Listen… I think we both could have been better friends about this whole thing… so how about we let it go? You'll always be my friend, Dashie, even if I do like to spend time with other friends, or my girlfriend."

"Your girlfriend?" Rainbow Dash blinked. "Wait, what girlfriend? You're into girls? What girlfriend?"

Sunset grinned. "You realize you asked that three times."

Rainbow Dash shook her head. "But who? When?"

The door to the room opened and a very flustered Vice Principal Luna gazed inside, eyes settling on Sunset. "You made it back!" she said stepping forth as Sunset stood.

The pair embraced tightly, before Luna pulled back and rather boldly planted a kiss full on Sunset's lips.

Rainbow Dash stared, trying to make sense of it all.

"You're into older girls?"

"Thanks for dinner."

Luna smiled. "My pleasure. Although it's a bit sad that this is the first time we've ordered food when we didn't win."

Sunset chuckled and pulled Luna to the sofa, sitting down next to her. "Well, the general public agreement is that this tournament was epic enough that Surgeon's stunt was mostly met with approval, although Rainbow Dash insists we should have gone out in a blaze of glory rather than wiping everyone out with a bomb."

The pair shared a giggle.

"I'm glad that you two are on speaking terms again."

"More than speaking terms, it's almost like we never had a fight. The girls have been very understanding and Rainbow Dash has promised that me hanging out with other people—or with my girlfriend—is not going to be an issue." Sunset grinned. "Plus, she said she's thinking of joining GGO or one of the VMMORPGs… that will definitely be an interesting experience."

"Speaking of issues," Luna said after a moment. "What do you think is going to happen with the tournament? And Sombra?"

Sunset shrugged. "I imagine they'll cast votes or maybe arrange for another battle… I'm just glad we're all back, and whatever anyone might say or who gets to go to the Asian server, we did one hell of a job, every one of us."

Luna nodded, frowning. "I still can't believe Wallflower caught me like that."

Sunset wrapped her arm around Luna's shoulders. "Hey, it's okay. That's how her character is built. She almost got me the exact same way, and I'm the same type as she is. Besides," she added, bopping Luna's nose with the tip of her finger. "If you hadn't taken out Sukiru we wouldn't have had a chance to even tie, so don't beat yourself up over it."

"As for Sombra…" Sunset sighed. "Well, that was the end of our experiments. After the police took all of his research, Twilight and I decided it was better to leave the magic and GGO alone. Which is too bad, since it was an amazing experiment… on the other hoof, it makes things less dangerous."

Luna chuckled, leaning in to kiss Sunset. Those little slips of the tongue were always so adorable. After a moment, she stood up. "I'm heading over to bed, coming?"

Sunset grinned. "Sure, let me just take a quick shower, okay?"

Luna smirked. "Don't be too long, or I'll have passed out."

Sunset rolled her eyes and skipped over to the bathroom, turning over the shower and closing the door behind her.

Alone for the moment, she let her shoulders sag and she looked at herself in the mirror. With a flicker of concentration, she was suddenly a bit more tanned and taller, and the person staring back was not Sunset, but Mirage.

"I wonder who I really am now," she muttered tracing the reflection with her finger. She shuddered and morphed back into Sunset.

She shook her head, the sound of the shower reminding her that someone was waiting for her. Sunset smirked. So her secret life as a gamer was not so secret anymore… and Mirage wasn't just a projection of her inner self and search for freedom… now she was truly a part of herself.

Stepping into the warm water, she let it run down her head and body, closing her eyes and relaxing under it.

No more experiments. Sunset chuckled and wondered… what would happen if she stepped into another gaming world? Could she do it?

"Hey," Luna called, poking her head into the bathroom. "Hurry up, this sniper is getting a bit lonely."

"Be right there!" Sunset called back, laughing. Her thoughts turned back to her wonderings for just a second. "Maybe I'll give it a try… but not tonight."

The End

Author's Note

Well! That was something! I hope you enjoyed the story! Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Chapter 01: Desert Mirage

"Ever since I turned a new leaf, I've struggled. It's easy to say: 'I'll give up my old ways; embrace the new! Reforge friendship!' But... the fact is—deep inside—beyond the cleansing effects of Her magic... I still have ambition. I still feel anger. And regret, and fear, and a desperate need to prove to myself that I'm the best.

"I don't want Her to be disappointed in me. I don't want to lose my new friends. Or for Celestia to find that I've fallen again. Friendship is magic after all, and I have proven myself a friend to the extent that the Elements work with me, whether She is here or not. My connection to the girls is as strong as ever.

"And yet... I want to lash out. Is it really such a weird thing? All that frustration just boiling up behind a smiling face and eyes hiding sadness that the others never seem to notice?

"I don't blame them. I'm not judging them. But I have to deal with this on my own. I tried the school counselor. Poor woman. She was at first terrified of me, and then—from the look she gave me—she probably thought I was crazy, I'm sure. She wasn't there when the magical fireworks went off three times... but one thing she said, did get me thinking.

"Maybe. Just maybe, I need to learn to make peace with the power of magic before it starts consuming me again. And I don't mean quitting magic. I mean stop wanting to be the most powerful magical being in the universe. It's not as easy as it might seem—after the events of the Friendship Games and the return of my magic, it's easy to fall back into the persona I had before I left home all those years ago. The arrogant magical genius that thought her growing powers were a sign that she was destined for greatness no matter what the cost.

"But I need to replace that arrogance with something. My drive will never be gone, and I don't want it to be. I just need to turn my focus into something less destructive, something that will not affect my friends in a negative way, and preferably something that most of them will never suspect me of doing.

"So I won't endanger my friends anymore. I won't seek the power to bend the universe to my will. I will not abuse magic. This gift that was finally returned to me. I might still be one of Celestia's chosen students. I might still be one of the most gifted unicorns out there—whenever I am an actual unicorn, that is— and that should be enough for me, magic-wise: to be strong enough to defend those close to me.

"But, I still need to kick ass. Save log."

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 1: Desert Mirage

Desert Mirage rested her back against the remains of the concrete wall, trying to steady her breathing, and holding Twilight and Sunset to her chest. The group behind the wall was thankfully unaware of her presence so far, which gave her a moment to collect herself and put herself in the mental state she needed to be in.

She had been following them unseen until they had stopped for a rest. They seemed fairly new at this, but she knew better than just assuming things. Maybe they just didn't pay attention to things as they should. She had heard at least one of them complain about the pause, but he had been outvoted by the others.

For a brief moment, she felt a pang of guilt at what she was going to do. She could hear part of their conversation a bit more clearly when one of them got excited about a topic or another. They sounded so young. Was her personal gratification worth—

"Mirage," a voice crackled on her headset, interrupting her thoughts, "are you ready?"

Desert Mirage took one last, calming breath as she heard the rustle of a few of her targets getting to their feet and heading out. "They'll find their sentry soon. Keep them distracted for me. You know the plan," she whispered into the radio.

"This better work, Mirage. We're paying you a lot of money for this one."

She smirked despite herself, but didn't bother replying, choosing instead to press herself to the wall and make less of an obvious target to spot. Desert Mirage had a reputation for a reason, after all. No point in defending what was already fact, and she didn't want to give her position away over something so silly.

She mentally counted the seconds before the scouts found the body.

Five.

Four.

Three.

Two.

The shouts of alarm stopped all conversation behind her, and immediately the group on the other side of the wall had jumped into action, running towards the alarm, and already she could hear shots. All the campers had run out towards the trap.

All but one. He was slower, but deadly, and probably the real reason she had been hired for this.

She could hear him, stomping off to the front, just as the night sky lit up with explosions and more shouts. She grimaced. They were putting up more of a fight than she had anticipated, but then again the old farmhouse they had chosen to rest at had a lot of sturdy structures to take cover behind, and offered great visibility for defenders if you accounted for the downward slope towards the fields, where her contractors were.

If she waited any longer, her target would join the battle, and that would not do. Letting the air out slowly, she braced herself and rolled around the corner, Twilight and Sunset held secure in her hands, steady and at the ready.

It took her a split second to realize she had acted just a little bit too soon.

Her target wasn't facing away from her. He was smiling viciously in anticipation, his minigun held up at the ready.

Her eyes had barely widened by the time her instincts had kicked in and she dived away—not a second too soon—to avoid being torn into bloody chunks. She tucked in and rolled, scrapping her elbows on the concrete floor just the explosive sounds of a minigun being shut right next to her drowned all other noise.

Being so close to death was dizzying, deafening—and exhilarating. She could see the veritable fountain of used cases cascading around her and the man she had to take down to fulfill her contract.

"You're not getting out of here alive, princess!" the massive man shouted, laughing, his gun following just inches behind Desert Mirage's quick movements, showering the concrete behind her in sparks and pieces of shrapnel.

"Don't call me princess!" Mirage shouted as the roll brought her to rest against a wall. Without missing a beat, she pushed with both feet against it, propelling herself up and forward just as the bullets were reaching her position.

His shots burned stinging streaks of red in her left arm, and she gritted her teeth at the sudden pain. They were grazes at best, however, and her grip on Sunset remained firm in her grasp despite the pain.

Before her opponent could fully understand what was happening, she was standing right in front of him, where he couldn't possibly shift his angle to shoot at her.

She pressed Twilight under his chin and Sunset against his chest as he released the trigger of his minigun in surprise. The last of his spent cases rained around them like red-hot fireflies as they looked each other in the eye, as the moment of realization hit him.

The dual shot sounded like a single gunshot, and his body had barely begun to fall back before Mirage was already on the run to the other gunfight.

She saw half of the group she had stalked earlier clustered behind an overturned old truck, and smirked, jumping behind a fence. For so-called mercenaries, they were very badly equipped, and seriously lacking in training.

Twilight slid easily into its holster and she took out a grenade from her satchel. "You really couldn't have made it easier for me, could you? Clustered like doves in the park. Other than Lion you were really all amateurs."

Ping off.

Let it cook.

Mirage tossed the grenade over the fence.

It traced a beautiful arc, only to land with an ungraceful thud and an awkward roll between the legs of the combatants. Two girls, young looking. Could have been the same age as high school students. Three guys, two older, one looking decidedly younger. Not that apparent age meant anything here.

They only had time to look down in baffled comprehension at just what had landed right between them before the grenade decimated them. When the smoke cleared, none of them were standing.

She spoke into her radio. "Mirage here. Heavy weapon is down, and that explosion was a little cluster I took care of. How many are left?"

"Good," the reply was immediate. "We have three left over here. Make that two."

"Do you still need support?"

"Not at all. There's only one left. Pleasure doing business with you, Mirage."

Mirage smirked, pulling the hood of her mantle over her head before running to the back of the farm where their enemy had taken refuge. "Just make sure you transfer the rest of my money tonight."

"Every penny."

Just as she was passing the remains of the house, she sensed something. In a second, Twilight was out, and Desert Mirage was aiming it straight at the head of a young kid, who had dropped his own sub-machine gun onto the floor when he realized she would shoot him before he could bring it up. He raised his hands.

"P-please! I'm not with them! I just heard the gunfight! I wanted to see what the deal was!"

Mirage remained motionless, her hand never wavering while she studied the young man. "Amand, isn't it? I've heard of you. You're a looter." Her eyes narrowed, taking note of where they were standing. "What did you take from the Lion after I killed him?"

"N-nothing much!" The youth swore, but when Mirage pulled out Sunset as well, he relented, slowly pulling the large minigun her opponent had wielded moments before. "Please! All I got was his minigun! I'll resell and give you half the—"

"That's BS. Give it to me now."

He gawked at her for a split second. "You're kidding me. I'm not doing that! Do you know how much that thing is worth?" Amand growled, bending down to pick his gun.

"Really?" Mirage droned, a single shot from Twilight blowing the automatic rifle out of the way. "You really want to risk it? The way I see it, you give me that or you lose it, your life, and everything."

Amand clenched his jaw, but threw the minigun over next to Mirage. She didn't take her eyes off of him.

"Get out of here."

Mirage watched him go before picking up the minigun herself and activating her mantle, disappearing from view. "Time to go home."

Sunset Shimmer ran down the hall and grimaced when she reached her destination. She could hear the music behind the doors, which was a clear indication that the others had already started practicing. Taking a moment to calm down and breathe, she nodded to herself and pushed the doors open.

"Hey girls, sorry I'm late."

The group stopped playing and Rainbow Dash immediately gave her a look. "What gives, Sunset?" she asked, resting down her guitar. "You're the one that told us to be here at four!"

"Sorry, sorry!" Sunset sighed. "I got caught up sending messages to Science Twilight and Princess Twilight. We were discussing this very interesting theory about teleportation and how it would work in this world if we use advanced technology on it you see, an—"

"Okay, egghead stuff, I get it."

"Uh, Ah don't think you do, Rainbow Dash," Applejack deadpanned.

"Well, not the actual thing they're talking about, but I get that I don't care, because she should've been here already."

Applejack rolled her eyes, and turned to Sunset. "Ah wouldn't put it like that exactly, but Ah do agree with her that if you schedule somethin' you should try and be there on time. Did you go all the way to Crystal Prep to meet Science-Twilight?"

Sunset smiled sheepishly. "Well not exactly, but—"

"Never mind that, dear." Rarity stepped forward, lacing an arm around Sunset's shoulders. "You're here now, and that's what matters. I'm sure you won't let it happen again, right?" She glanced at Applejack and Rainbow Dash. "We all know Sunset wants to win the Band of the Year Award just as much as any of us, right?"

Sunset sighed. "I do, girls. I really do. I know I've spent a lot of time with Sci-Twi since we met her during the Friendship Games, and with her having decided to stay in Crystal prep it makes the travel-time a bit more obvious... it's just I got really excited about this project too. But that doesn't mean I should be late for practice," she said with a small smile. "So, how about we get started?"

Applejack and Rainbow Dash both gave Sunset a thumbs-up.

Fluttershy smiled and nodded, motioning for Sunset to join them. "We're playing a new song I wrote!" She carefully passed the music sheets to her. "We were just going to try it for the first time. I was thinking..." She blushed, letting her hair fall in front of her face, covering it. "Um... that you could... sing it... but—" She looked up. "I'm sure you'll like it!"

Sunset grinned as she read the lyrics. "I'd love to, Fluttershy! Thank you!"

"Yeah! It's pretty cool!" Rainbow Dash stated, picking up her guitar. "But I bet it sounds even cooler than it reads!"

"You know what?" Sunset readied her own guitar, glancing over the lyrics. "I think you might be right!"

The girls grinned at each other.

"Ready to win that competition?!" Pinkie asked, raising the drumsticks into the air.

"Hay yeah!"

"That's an excellent song, Fluttershy," Sunset said, hugging her friend. "And I love the lyrics. Thank you for writing it for me."

"Oh, it was not a problem at all!" Fluttershy said, returning the hug. "I felt it really went well with you."

"I love it, I promise."

Fluttershy's smile could have lit up the room.

"So, when are we doing this again?" Rainbow Dash asked. "It was a good practice session girls, and we played the song well enough, but not awesome. And I hate to remind you all, but if we're winning that competition, we need awesome."

"Well, we can practice tomorrow, I guess." Rarity sighed, brushing her hair back. "But it can't be until after noon. I'll come here straight after my visit to the hairdresser."

"Ah don't have a problem if it's after one," Applejack said. "Ah should be done with work at the farm by then. Thankfully Big Mac and Ah got most chores done during the week."

"Well, as long as we're done by five..." Fluttershy fidgeted a little then smiled. "I have to be at the vet at that time tomorrow to pick up Angel Bunny, and he's generally in a bad mood if I arrive late."

"I don't have soccer practice tomorrow, so whatever time works for me." Rainbow Dash shrugged and started packing her things.

"Ooh! You guys wanna come over to Sugarcube Corner? I have this a-may-zing new cake recipe that you have to try!" Pinkie said, jumping over the drums to grin at the others. "I baked the cake this morning!"

Sunset grimaced when all the others enthusiastically agreed to it.

"I'm sorry girls, but if we're practicing tomorrow, I need to get some things done tonight so I can have them finished in time."

"Aww! But the cake!"

Sunset patted her friend's shoulder. "You know I love your cakes, Pinkie, but I really have a lot on my plate right now. Maybe next time."

The man sat at the table with a morose look in his face. He grunted and threw some coins down for the waiter when his drink was served. Around the bar, a few people had looked at him and made an attempt to approach him until he had glared them away. They had kept quiet and not met his eyes after that.

He couldn't care less about them, though. There was a very specific person did not want to see at all. This person was female, young, wore dark-purple-tinted ceramic armor under a dark gray and black camouflage mantle, had very clashy hair colors and occupied the exact height, depth and breadth as the person now standing in front of him did.

"What do you want, princess? Here to gloat?" Lion almost growled.

"I told you not to call me 'princess'." Desert Mirage shrugged. "And no, that's not my style. I have something for you."

The Lion's eyes widened when his minigun was placed on the table with a clang. "What?! But—" he cut himself short and glared at her. "Are you trying to resell it to me?!"

Mirage shook her head. "It's yours. I saw Amand grab it and figured I wasn't okay with it."

"I hate looters," Lion said, slowly pulling the minigun to his side of the table, running his hand on the barrel. "I went through hell to get this."

"That's why I figured I'd bring it over."

Lion snorted and pushed the chair opposite of him away from the table with his foot, motioning with his head for Desert Mirage to take a seat. "Then let me at least get you a drink before you go, bacon head."

Mirage raised an eyebrow, but accepted the invitation. "Bacon head?"

"You said not to call you princess."

Left Hand: Twilight - Rare Drop: Ultralight Materials Desert Eagle .50 semi. 8-shot special.
Right Hand: Sunset - Custom-made Glock .45 ACP 10-shot magazine, Special: Fire DoT - 5 mins

Chapter 10: Reminisce

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 10: Reminisce

Sunset stared at her diary.

It hadn't been ten minutes since she and Luna had returned from their drive around town, and suddenly, it had started vibrating.

She had quickly opened it up, expecting a long letter from Twilight, but instead it was two sentences that made her extremely nervous.

Sunset, I'll meet you at the statue tonight in about twenty minutes. Can you request the day off tomorrow?

She stared at the diary for a full minute, before she sighed and wrote her reply.

Yes.

The next ten minutes were a rush of texting Luna, emailing Surgeon, and letting the other Twilight know that she would probably be out the whole day and wouldn't be able to meet her for their scheduled experiments.

She hesitated at the door, looking back at her apartment. She wondered what Twilight had to say, and if she would be coming back home at all.

And then she was off to Canterlot High.

She hadn't been back to the school in the middle of the night for a while now, ever since she had stolen Twilight's crown, in fact. It looked peaceful, and yet Sunset had a hard time not thinking about her friends—if she even deserved to call them so—and the complications they were going through.

Her inner turmoil was interrupted by a shimmering of the statue's surface and the emergence of Princess Twilight, in her usual purple skirt and light blue shirt. The princess stumbled a little before getting quickly used to her different form once again. She looked up and smiled. "Hi, Sunset!"

Smiling uncertainly, Sunset waved. "Um, hi Twilight." Twilight gave Sunset a hug, which she returned a bit nervously. "How was the trip from Equestria?"

Twilight smiled. "As fast as you can imagine! I was hoping you'd come back with me for a day, what do you think?"

Sunset giggled. "Yeah, I figured as much..." she nervously glanced at the statue. "It's been a while since I last visited."

"Well, come on then," Twilight said, motioning with her hand. "I think you need a little break from this world."

Sunset chuckled. "Maybe."

"Sunset!" a voice called out.

The pair stopped when Vice Principal Luna ran around the school building and, once spotting them, trotted up to them.

"Luna?" Sunset blinked. "Did you come to see me off?"

"Hi Vice Principal Luna!" Twilight said, smiling at the woman as she approached.

"Hello, Twilight Sparkle, I assume you have good reason to take my student away in the middle of a school week?" Luna asked, raising an eyebrow.

Twilight fidgeted. "I do. I promise. I know how important education is."

Luna chuckled, walking up to them and nodding. "Take good care of her."

"I will!"

Luna then gave Sunset a surprise hug, which was returned firmly and quickly enough. "And you. Make sure you come back," she whispered into her ear.

Sunset was a bit surprised by the whisper, but she gave Luna a reassuring pat on the back. "I promise."

"Good," Luna said, stepping back. "I wish you both a safe trip. And see you soon."

Twilight took Sunset's hand and guided her through the statue, leaving the Vice-Principal alone.

Luna stood in front of the statue, gingerly poking the now-solid surface of its base.

"So, I take it Sunset did go with Twilight like you suspected?"

Luna glanced over her shoulder at Celestia, who was just coming around the building and nodded, before turning around and sitting on the floor, back against the statue. "Yes. It was as I suspected. And feared. Although perhaps I was too hasty in assuming anything was wrong."

Celestia sighed, walking over to sit next to her sister. She looked at her school, where so much had happened in one single year. "Maybe you're getting too close to our student, Luna."

Luna tensed, but slowly forced herself to relax. "Maybe. But she's a good friend, and a brave one too."

Celestia raised an eyebrow at that, but didn't push it, knowing that Luna would talk to her on her own and bring it up if it was something she needed to share.

"It's been a while, Celestia, since I've had time to make friends in real life," Luna said. "My escapes into video games and my online acquaintances are always fun, but they don't provide that physical sense of closeness and understanding." She sighed. "I fear that Sunset might end up trying too hard to escape reality and lose all that she has worked to accomplish by becoming... well, a shut-in, as they say."

Celestia leaned on her sister's shoulder. "It took a long time for you to come out of your self-imposed exile. I remember how hard it was for you to leave your hermitage."

Luna snorted. "I also wonder what it would have been like, had you not been around and so forgiving."

Celestia nodded. "You fear Sunset is doing that? Secluding herself?"

"That... and I am being selfish," Luna said after a moment of looking up at the sky and trying to find her namesake.

"Luna, you're an angel. Heaven-sent. The moon's brilliance doesn't do honor to your awesomeness."

"Selfish how?"

"I don't want my best friend to go away." Luna hugged her knees. "I don't want to lose Sunset."

Celestia looked at her sister in surprise and a little concern. She opened and closed her mouth a couple of times, trying to say what she was thinking, but bit back the warnings, the judgement, and the fear.

Luna sighed when Celestia wrapped her arms around her, and leaned onto her sister. "What am I doing, Tia?"

Celestia pondered the question, not letting go of her sister, who didn't struggle in her embrace. "I don't know," she said at length.

The transformation from human to pony was seamless, although Sunset had to stop and get her bearings with the shift in height and center of mass. This, along with the feeling of total control she had of her magic, so different from what she was experiencing in the human world left her a bit out of sorts. Soon enough though, she was able to comfortably walk into the room proper, where Twilight and a lavender baby dragon she assumed was Spike, were looking at her in surprise.

"What?" Sunset asked, crossing her eyes trying to look at her nose. "Do I have something on my muzzle?"

Twilight shook her head.

"It's more like something on the sides of your barrel," Spike provided helpfully. He coughed. "Sorry, princess."

"Don't call me—" Sunset frowned and looked at her withers, eyes widening when she noticed the wings. "Oh. Crud."

Twilight and Spike exchanged glances. "Wait, what's wrong?" Twilight asked. "Didn't you always want to be a princess?"

Sunset cringed, pressing the wings against her body. "Yes, and we know how that well that turned out."

Twilight shook her head and walked up to her, using her own wing to pull Sunset closer. "Don't worry, we're here for you."

Sunset bit her lip doubtfully, but nodded, allowing Twilight to guide her through the castle into a bedroom, where she sat down on the bed next to her.

"I figured we could talk a little tonight about what's going on," Twilight explained after a moment. "I know the wings are hard to take in though, so if you want, I can—"

"No," Sunset spoke up. "No... it-it's okay, I can deal with this for a day."

Twilight smiled. "Excellent. Spike, could you please bring some tea and snacks?"

"Right on it!" Spike said, trotting out of the room.

Twilight's smile grew as her assistant ran out of the room before she turned to face Sunset. "I had hoped to get the girls here to talk to you tonight, in case they could help your friendship with their counterparts, but after some thought I decided maybe we should just talk first... I didn't want to push them on you."

Sunset chuckled weakly, pulling one of her wings with her magic. "Thank you Twilight, I know they're not the same peo—ponies, I mean, but... things are a bit tense right now, and I think I'd have a hard time facing them."

Twilight nodded. "I still think you might want to talk to my Rainbow Dash," she said. "But that is better left undecided until tomorrow. For now, why don't you tell me about your other friends?"

Sunset smiled. "It'll take some time, I have to start a couple of months ago, just after the end of the Friendship Games."

"Well," Twilight giggled. "We're in my castle. And I'm not going anywhere."

Sunset nodded, glancing around at the large room she was in, before leaning back onto a pillow, forelegs on her chest and legs crossed. It took some shuffling but she finally managed to get comfortable after spreading her wings on both sides and trying to ignore Twilight's giggling. "It all started when I went to check on Scientist Twilight several months ago," she began.

"...and this is my lab!" Twilight Sparkle said, opening the door to allow Sunset in.

Sunset whistled. "This is an impressive amount of equipment!" She glanced at the bed. "Do you spend the night here often?"

"It's for a special experiment." Twilight walked past her, turning on the lights and nodding at her words. "And the equipment is impressive, but Prof. Sombra has been very kind in helping me build it to my specifications." She looked at Sunset. "He teaches Computer Science."

"I see. He just... had a counterpart in Equestria, that's all."

"Oh? Was he also a teacher?"

"Not exactly." Sunset coughed. Then looked around for something to deviate the conversation. "Oh, what's this?"

She walked over to some sort of visor-helmet, resting next to what appeared to be Twilight's main computer.

"Oh... that's a-an Amusphere."

"Really?" Sunset asked. "I think I read about these. Weren't a bunch of people trapped in a virtual world for about two years and if you tried to removed them they'd fry your brain or something?"

Twilight shrugged. "Those were the NerveGears, they've been discontinued and recalled. They had very powerful microwave emitters, but these?" She picked it up. "They've been designed to prevent anything remotely similar from happening. The most you'd suffer if someone were to suddenly remove it would be surprise, and maybe a bit of nausea, no matter how much you tweaked the software."

"Well, that's good to hear," Sunset laughed. "So, are you playing any games?"

Twilight cringed self-consciously.

"Hey, hey," Sunset placed a hand on her shoulder. "There's nothing wrong with that, I um..." she stammered. "Um. Play Pokemon."

Twilight stared at her and then started giggling.

Sunset smiled. "Now, don't go around telling anyone!"

"I promise," Twilight said, fighting the giggles. "Anyway, yes... I'll tell you which one, if you promise not to laugh?"

Sunset lifted her hand and nodded solemnly.

Twilight pulled up a page on the computer and stepped aside, to let Sunset see.

"Gun Gale Online," Sunset read aloud, blinking as she read the rest of the description in silence. "You're into gunfights?!" She gasped, glancing at meek, awkward sciency Twilight Sparkle. "Wow." She turned around to read more. "And it's a VRMMO, so... it's like you're really being shot at and shooting, huh?"

Twilight nodded, still pressing her lips together with a light tinge of red on her cheeks.

Sunset was at a loss for words. She grabbed a chair and sat down, browsing the description of the game, videos, the weapons, the contests, monsters, world...

She talked to Twilight for over an hour about it, learning that she could have more than two weapons on her, as long as they were in storage, or were tactical items, such as grenades or dura-steel cables. She learned that there were things called 'raids' where squads would get together to hunt really powerful monsters and that the player who dealt the killing blow usually got a special item. She learned how she could build a completely new persona, with different skills than her own, and yet learn a lot from how the mechanics worked. She learned she could even earn real money out of this game, given that it had its own unique game-money to real money conversion system.

Twilight's embarrassment about being caught as a gamer had faded completely. She talked excitedly about meeting other people who never knew she was an introvert, or so physically weak in the real world. How she had taken out her frustrations in the game up until her involvement in the Friendship Games. How she could be whoever she wanted in there.

And the more they talked about it, the more Sunset slowly began to fall in love with the idea of playing it herself.

Their conversation was interrupted by a text from Rainbow Dash, which made Sunset's phone vibrate in her pocket.

Sunset blinked and pulled out her phone. "Let's see..." she slumped. "Oh man, I wanted to go to the concert at the Canterlot Auditorium tonight."

Twilight blinked. "Well... why don't you?"

Sunset leaned on the back of the chair and sighed loudly. "Well, I suggested it, but the others don't want to. I guess it's not their type of music."

Twilight had brought up the Auditorium's schedule. "Wow. I mean. Wow." She cleared her throat. "I hate to point this out, but given what you usually play, I never thought something like 'Ragnarokkr Metal Apocalypse'(1) would be part of your interests."

"Mine," Sunset sighed again, petulantly bumping the desk with her fist. "Not theirs. They want to go to Sugarcube Corner again and then watch a movie at Rarity's again."

"What's wrong with that?"

"Nothing, I guess," Sunset said, pushing back on the chair to stand up. "Except... I dunno. I've suggested going to so many places I'd love to share with them and they always default to one of their houses, or any of their favorite activities." She shook her head. "I guess that's the price of friendship."

She turned around to leave, but Twilight spoke up.

"Um, I could go with you, if you want?"

Sunset stopped in her tracks, eyes wide. "What?"

"I mean, if you'd like me to? I've never been to one of those, and we can join Lemon Zest, I know she was going to the Auditorium tonight," she added. "She told me on the bus this morning."

"I-I would love to! Are you sure, Twilight?"

Twilight smiled and gave a single, firm nod. "Of course! But you have to promise to try out GGO with me sometime this week!"

Sunset laughed. "Twilight, I think you had me sold on that an hour and a half ago! If it's half as amazing as you make it sound, I'd love to play that game with you."

Twilight blushed. "Well, I do like that game," she mumbled, before taking her phone out of her purse. "Let me text Lemon Zest."

Sunset nodded, pulling out her phone and writing her own text.

Sorry girls, I'll have to take take a rain check tonight, Twilight offered to go with me to the concert tonight and it's the last day so I really don't want to miss it.

~SS

Twilight's phone buzzed and played a little tune, and she quickly read the message. "Lemon Zest says she'd love to have us go with her! But that we should buy the tickets now, if there's any chance of getting them."

While Twilight turned to type at the computer, Sunset's phone vibrated again. it was Rainbow Dash.

You'd rather go to some lame concert than hang out with your friends? I guess that's okay then, see you tomorrow at practice.

Sunset closed her eyes and flinched. 'Maybe I should cancel this an—' her thoughts were interrupted by Twilight's giggle.

"Two tickets, purchased!" Twilight gushed, spinning on her seat. "I'm so excited! I've never been to a concert before!"

Sunset blinked in surprise, then turned off her phone's display. "Well, let's meet up with Lemon Zest. We'll have to go home and get ready pretty soon if we want to make it in time."

Author's Note

(1) Yes, I know Ragnarokkr Metal Apocalypse only happens in Chicago. All I can say is, I love that thing too much to not include here. :derpytongue2:

Chapter 12: FullDive

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 12: FullDive

Breakfast was served. Copious amounts of pancakes, fresh Equestrian apples (from Sweet Apple Acres), milk, orange juice, and oats had been prepared and placed on the table, awaiting her and Twilight that morning.

Oh, how Sunset missed Equestrian oats.

"Before we start, I have something for you," Twilight said unusually solemn, levitating a scroll encased with a wax seal bearing Celestia's cutie mark to Sunset.

Sunset took it gingerly, gulping once before breaking the seal and opening it to read its contents.

Dear Sunset Shimmer,

Hello my student, it's been a long time.

Twilight has informed me that you are spending a day at her castle, and while I am very tempted to go there right now and see you, I understand it might be too much.

I don't know if you would like to see me, after all. And though it pains me, if you don't, I will not push.

I have missed you, my little pony. I have really missed you a lot. I wish you had been with me when Twilight became my student... I like to imagine what those sessions would have been like, with all three of us in my study, hot mugs of cocoa at the ready, and fire roaring in the chimney. Of course it's a fantasy, but it has been one that has warmed my heart since you left.

I'm sorry I failed you, Sunset. If you ever have the heart to forgive me, I will be happy to welcome you back home myself.

For now, enjoy your time with Twilight, and know that at I am glad you are safe and well.

~Princess Celestia.

Sunset's magic trembled, and she carefully lowered it down onto the table. "Thank you, Twilight."

Twilight nodded, a small smile spreading on her lips. "Would you like to reply to her?"

Sunset nodded. "But not right now... let me—" she sniffed. "Let me calm down a little."

Twilight's smile grew. "Of course! Do you want to talk about something else in the meantime?"

"How about you tell us more about that game?" Spike asked, taking a seat at the table.

Sunset took a sip of her juice and grinned. "Sure, why not?"

Sunset sat on her bed, waiting for her computer to finish installing Gun Gale Online.

"Okay, since we have a minute or two left, do you have any questions?" Twilight asked from her phone.

"Um, not really... I think you explained how to do most things and we calibrated the Amusphere and set up a password and everything when you built this computer for me," Sunset said, glancing at her new setup. She had to admit, it was impressive, and way beyond what her previous store-bought computer had been capable of. "And thanks to you, I have a solid idea of how to use the skill system while leveling up... I've been planning a strategy for my character's growth already."

"Really? I'm glad you did your homework! What do you have in mind?"

"A gunslinger," Sunset said. "AGI/DEX then focus on LUK/SEN and finally have my lower stats on VIT/STR."

"Hm, that's interesting," Twilight said after a short moment of silent contemplation. "So you'd be fast and with high chance of hitting and a high chance of critical bonuses, sacrificing hit points and big weapons in exchange?"

"Yes." Sunset looked at the screen that showed the page and description of skills. "I'd rather hit with finesse than miss hard."

"Of course," Twilight's voice said brightly. "But we'll have to balance you out with decent equipment or you won't last half an hour!"

Sunset blinked. "What?"

"I'll be waiting for you at the Administration Building in Glocken, which is the quasi-city you start at."

Sunset nodded, remembering what she had read about the locations in GGO, then also remembered that Twilight couldn't see her. "Yeah, no problem. I might take some time to fiddle around with my character to make her look exactly like I want to, though."

"Take your time! It's important you're happy with your character. They're you, after all. There's a big bar on level 23 of the Administration Building, you can look for me there. Do you remember my name?"

"Twilight?" Sunset replied with a grin.

"Haha. Well, do you?"

"It's hard to forget, Avalon."

"Good girl. Now, I believe GGO should have finished installing. Ready to experience a whole new life?"

Sunset laughed. "You bet! See you in there soon!"

"Enjoy!" Twilight's voice said, just as the call ended.

Putting on the Amusphere on her head, Sunset laid down on her bed and turned off the light.

"Link Start!"

A plethora of sounds and colors invaded her vision and for a moment everything went white, except for a translucent black-gray window requesting her username and password. She willed both to appear on the screen, just like Twilight had taught her, and they immediately filled out the form in the right places, after which she was allowed access.

Everything went black and suddenly she was floating, invisible, in a large room that smelled of metal, rust, smoke and oil.

In the middle of the room, floating was a feature-less, glowing female shape that resembled her body, if it were a store mannequin. A large message appeared on top of the homunculus.

Welcome to Gun Gale Online

"Please design your character to your pleasure," a friendly computerized female voice spoke up. "This avatar has been generated with the parameters of your initial calibration of the Amusphere."

Several towers of pictures suddenly scrolled around her. Some had cloth items, some others had hair designs, as well as tools for modifying every possible thing she could imagine.

She floated around her avatar, bringing up her selections to make her future self slightly taller, and chisel out her features a little... sort of what she would imagine she'd look if she was a little older as a human. She kept her hair colors, but instead of her long hair, she decided to go for a shorter cut, finishing up to her shoulders.

Sunset smiled as she gave herself a slightly darker tan. "This is going to be fun."

All things said, it had taken her about forty minutes to finish up, a fact that she was painfully aware of. 'I hope Twilight is not upset.' she thought, walking down the streets of Glocken.

It was an uncanny experience. Each step felt real, each surface had a different feel, the air smelled of different odors; the breeze felt cool against her skin unless she passed a restaurant or someplace that would create a warmer feeling.

Her curious mind wondered just how much was pre-programmed and how much was just relying on her mind's memory and interpretation of stimuli to account for the sensations. But there was ironically too much to do, too much to understand and see for her to dwell on this wonder of technology.

Her choice of leather trench coat had been a good one, since it made her mix well enough with the other players, but she had no idea what to do and had quickly gotten lost.

Finally—with the aid of a couple of questions and sign-following—she had reached the Administration Office, a huge building that split into pointy twin towers and made her way inside. Once there, she had been pointed to the elevators and hurried up to them, getting in and pressing the button for the 23rd level.

The ride took about a minute, and soon, the doors opened to reveal a classy-looking bar, with plenty of glass tables, an amazing view of the city and relatively few patrons. The music was alright, nothing memorable, but not irritating.

The moment she stepped in, she saw Twilight. Or Avalon, as she was known here.

She sat alone, having claimed a small crystal table right next to the windows. She was taller than Sunset, and had the body type of a trained soldier. Her hair was styled in a more similar to what Sunset herself had in real life, and was completely black. Her black & purple armor covered her forearms, shins and the sides of her thighs, as well as her chest back and shoulders. Her star-burst cutie mark was painted on the breastplate, and the left shoulder armor had a faded XC spray painted on it.

A large shotgun was strapped to her back, and a pistol of some sort—Sunset had read about the gun options, but wasn't really familiar enough to recognize them quite yet— was holstered at her hip.

"Tw—"

Twilight raised a hand, smiling. "In-game it's bad manners to refer to each other by our real names. I like your style, by the way, and you look a little older, but still kept the hair color, eh?" She winked. "Desert Mirage."

Desert Mirage.

That was who she was here, not Sunset Shimmer. She had no past here. Desert Mirage had never been Celestia's prized pupil. She had never betrayed anypony. She had never destroyed friendships or almost attacked her homeland. Desert Mirage was—she was... free.

"Was it really such a big deal?" Princess Twilight asked as they made their way to her study. "Not having, you know, a past connected to us?"

Sunset sighed, attempting to shrug but only managing to beat her wings. She glared at them over her shoulder before turning to Twilight.

"I have been having trouble with my self-worth since before I left Equestria, Twilight," she confessed, stopping at the door and waiting for Twilight to go in first. "Obviously that was the reason I left in the first place, but... even after all that happened, I just felt like I had to quit being me."

She grimaced and laid down in a sofa, while Twilight took a seat at her desk and Spike sat on a small pillow.

"I hated it. I hated forcing myself to be meek for fear of being rejected by my new friends. I hated being unable to keep my chin up when others whispered behind my back and glared at me when they thought I wasn't looking. I hated pretending to be happy, just to fit the status quo."

"Wow, you really wouldn't have liked Starlight Glimmer," Spike said.

"Spike!"

Sunset chuckled. "Probably not," she admitted before her smirk faded. "But... I think the thing I resented the most, was that I couldn't let myself excel at anything without feeling guilty for it. If I was too good at math, the whispers would begin. If I was great at soccer, the team would stop passing me the ball. And the worst thing? The worst thing is that I told myself every night that I deserved it. And even now, I can't say I didn't."

"Sunset..." Twilight began, but held back when the other alicorn looked up at her with tears in her eyes.

"When I got to know them, the girls were really sweet," she said, holding the tears back. "I hated every iota of my being for having been such a monster to them, even more so than the rest of the school.

"When I became Desert Mirage... I was born again, this time into a world where I can't damage anyone, where I can be the best on my own merits, of my own effort and be recognized without... without jealousy. Without being mentored by the being everypony looks up to as perfect and expects the same of you. I can be a jerk there sometimes, and it doesn't define me. I can be smart, I can be cute, I can be bipolar, it doesn't matter!

"They don't see me as somepony that needs to be perfect, or that should behave in a specific way to prove she's repentant! It's the only place where I can let go of every shackle, every fear, and be free!"

Twilight stood and walked up to Sunset, wrapping her wings around the shaking alicorn and nuzzling her gently. "It's okay, Sunset. It's okay. I'm so sorry I left you behind feeling that way. You shouldn't have been alone. I should have known that you would feel like that, and—"

"You couldn't have," Sunset sniffed, cleaning the tears with her foreleg. "I didn't tell you. I pretended to be okay when you were around, and I was honestly happy when you visited." She chuckled. "How ironic that when I had the best chances to talk to you about it, I was feeling the exact opposite way." She cleared her throat. "Do you want to hear the rest of it?"

Twilight smiled and nodded, not moving from her side, and still holding her with her wings.

Sunset smiled in thanks, before looking down. "But I think... first I'd like to do something else."

Twilight blinked and shrugged. "Sure, what do you want to do?"

"I want to write a letter to Princess Celestia."

Twilight grinned. "Of course! Spike, take a letter!"

Dear Princess Celestia,

I would love to see you today before I go. I realize you must be busy, but maybe tonight, after Sun Court, you could visit here so we could spend some time talking. An hour or two won't be enough to say everything I want to say, but I think it would be a good start.

Always your student,

~Sunset Shimmer.

Spike rolled the scroll up, tied it with a ribbon and blew flames on it. The three watched the cloud of magic speed away and Sunset sagged against Twilight.

"Sunset?" Twilight asked, leaning down to look up at her face. "Are you okay? Are you tired?"

Sunset shook her head. "No. I'm just... I can't believe I finally—after everything that happened—sent her a letter." She took a deep breath. "I'm scared of seeing her, but... I feel like a huge weight has been taken off my shoulders."

"Well, she'll be receiving it right about now," Spike said with a smile. "And you can bet your new wings she'll be really happy to see that letter."

Sunset chuckled. "I can only hope, Spike."

Twilight giggled. "Do you want to tell us more of your story now?"

"Sure! Well, it turns out that Science Twilight was part of this quasi-legendary squad c-called X—" Sunset stammered to a stop, eyes wide.

Frowning, Twilight followed her line of sight to the open window, where a ball of sunlight had suddenly materialized and was slowly becoming bigger, until with a burst of light, Princess Celestia herself stood there, looking in surprise, confusion and hope at the pair of alicorns on the sofa.

They all remained quiet until Celestia smiled. "Sun Court was postponed for the day."

Chapter 20: Luna

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 20: Luna

"We need to figure out a way to find the diary," Twilight explained to Cadance as they watched the clerks load the latter's car with the purchased medical equipment.

Mirage had given Cadance more than enough cash to procure all she could have needed, including several IV bags, an IV stand, plenty of basic equipment, a couple of catheters, and even a basic medical bed and additional pillows.

Seeing a young girl in such a state was never easy, despite Cadance's courses and practice as an ER intern, and it was especially true when it involved someone she knew in person, even if peripherally. It didn't help either that Sunset happened to be a good, close friend of Twilight's—the first one she'd ever made, in fact—and it caused her additional pain to see her young charge so upset about it.

Then again, Lemon Zest had been comforting Twilight quite thoroughly, which was a ray of sunshine in an otherwise crummy day. How she had not seen that coming—well, to be fair, she had never expected Lemon Zest to be the one. Where had that even come from? And they were so cute together, sharing headphones, listening to music together, and leaning into each other! It was so adorable she could almost giggle despite it all.

Cadance cleared her throat. "It does appear to be an important part of this whole mess. Do you know how to do it?"

Twilight grimaced, and waited for the clerk to go back inside before responding. "Well, provided Mirage can help me out, I could create another detector... I'd just have to make sure it wasn't sucking the magic out of things so I don't end up almost destroying the world again..."

Lemon Zest hugged Twilight around the shoulders and Cadance almost giggled in glee. She wondered if Shiny knew. "Well, we know that won't happen, Twily, so would that be the only problem?"

Twilight gave them both a thankful smile but shook her head. "We don't even know if the book is still in this world. For all we know it could have ended up in GGO."

That gave the other two pause.

"How would we even find it if such a thing had happened?" Cadance whispered as the last of the equipment was put inside the car. "You can't use your device for other worlds, right?"

Twilight shook her head. "I have no idea. I imagine Mirage could do it, since she has all her powers, but only if we managed to somehow get her back there."

The trio boarded the Lexus and set off towards Sunset's apartment, and Cadance had to ask. "So, if we can't take Mirage back into GGO, what will happen to Sunset Shimmer?"

Twilight bit her lip before sighing heavily and answering, "She might remain in a coma forever, and Mirage is going to watch herself slowly grow old and die."

Silence followed Twilight's statement for a few minutes before Lemon Zest finally spoke up. "How does anyone even deal with that?"

"Hopefully we won't have to find out," Cadance said softly. "But we need to be supportive, whether we get the diary back or not, or Mirage back into Sunset's body, she's not going to have an easy time of it." She hesitated. "What's going on with my aunt and Sunset?"

"Um, she's her team's sniper..." Twilight said.

"Wait." Lemon Zest gasped, eyes widening. "Vice Principal Luna is Nightmare Moon?! No way! How come our teachers and staff aren't that cool?" She wilted under Cadance's glare. "Um, present company excluded?"

Cadance ignored her. "So you're saying that my aunt also has a gun-crazy avatar of death?" She sighed. "Why am I not surprised? Is auntie Celestia also in her team?"

"Um, no," Twilight said, tapping her fingers together. "I don't think she plays."

"Well, at least you're too smart to start playing violent video games," Cadance said, patting Twilight's shoulder thankfully. "I don't know what I would do if I found out you were into that sort of thing, shooting people for fun and such."

Lemon Zest snorted.

Cadance's frown deepened, but she kept her eyes on the road. "Why is that funny?"

"So," Twilight spoke up when Lemon Zest refused to answer, having chosen to put on her earphones and look out the window. "How long before we get back?"

"Twilight..."

"Are we there yet? I'm hungry, I think I could use a snack and then dive into the hard drives and look at all the amazing data..."

"Twilight, what are you not telling me?"

"Did you know alicorns get to live for thousands of years? I wonder how that translates to a human conversion?"

"Twilight!"

"...I'd have to figure out the exact frequency, but I imagine that I can cast a spell that will allow me to find the diary, provided it wasn't destroyed," Desert Mirage explained to Luna as they both sat side by side on the floor across from the bed, drinking a beer.

"Is that going to be difficult?"

"I don't think so, there's not much magic in this world and Twilight already detected inter-dimensional magic before with human technology. I'm sure that with some thought I can design a simple matrix to pin-point its location. Maybe even over a map."

Luna chuckled. "A magical GPS for your diary," she teased.

"Of sorts, yeah." Mirage smiled a bit sadly, locking her eyes on her body. "That is provided it wasn't destroyed." She sighed and leaned on Luna's shoulder. "If that happened, I'm not sure what's going to become of me."

Luna nodded and wrapped an arm around Mirage's shoulder. "I'm sure we'll figure something out," she said.

Mirage sighed. "You know, it's kind of ironic. For so many months I've kept to myself my real feelings... which I know is not healthy, but... I didn't have the heart to tell the girls that I was faking happiness... they weren't paying attention to what I wanted, but they were going out of their way to make me feel loved and respected. It ate at me that I could be so selfish despite their acceptance after all that happened." She tried to glare at her old body but she only managed to look hurt.

"I started playing GGO because I'm still ambitious," she continued. "I'm rash, and tough and proud. Arrogant even, at times. I don't want to be 'one more' anything. I want to be Sunset Shimmer. Or Desert Mirage. I want people to recognize that I have talent, that I have power and indomitable will... but that I have learned from my mistakes. That I can be me in all my glorious imperfection and still be better than I was. That I can shoot for the top, and be a good person." She held up a hand and bubbles made of light materialized around it drifting in an invisible breeze. "That my magic can create beauty. That my magic is not something I have to hide for fear of being seen again as a demon.

"And now, I'm in a different body. Similar enough, but independent for all intents and purposes. I could grab my money and gems, disintegrate my old body, walk out that door and become someone new with all those characteristics in the real world. Only four people would ever know what became of Sunset Shimmer." She chuckled. "And yet, as easy at that sounds, I can't help but look at my old body and think... 'it would be a lie. I would still be lying to everyone about who I am.'" She sighed. "I know I'm being stupid, Luna but—"

"You're not," Luna interrupted. "For the longest time, when I was younger I wanted to be someone else. My sister thought her popularity affected me... and it did, a little. Being a goth back a few years wasn't nearly as accepted as it is today."

Mirage gave her a look.

Luna smirked. "My point exactly. Imagine how bad it was back then. But—I changed. I did things I'm not proud of. Things that took a long time to get out of my system literally and metaphorically. After that, I was in a situation similar to yours. It lasted until about a year or two before you arrived here. I wanted so badly to be someone else so that people that knew me wouldn't look at me and see... the other me."

She drew Mirage closer. "I'm proud of what you've achieved, Sunset. I'm proud to see you be strong and not fall into despair like... like I would. I'm proud to see you in all your power, pride and glory and be the woman I fell in love with." She looked at the body in the bed. "You might be resting there, but the true you, the one I suspect will blossom when you're not afraid of being who you are... your soul is right here next to me. And I am proud to know such a beautiful, strong soul."

Mirage bit her lip and choked back a sob before looking up, ignoring her tears, and smiling at Luna, "Now I know you're just sweet-talking me. You already got the girl, why tease her?"

Luna chuckled and planted a kiss in Mirage's lips. "You're adorable when you're trying to be tough."

"Don't tell the others, I don't want to ruin my street rep." Mirage chuckled and used the back of her sleeve to clean her eyes.

Luna tapped her chin. "Speaking of your reputation, I'm going to have to think of a way to dodge questions about your school absence."

Mirage blinked. "I hadn't even thought of that."

"Well, it's important that we keep this quiet..." Luna muttered. "We don't want people to find out about this."

Mirage was about to say something else when she heard a ping. Incredulous, she raised her hand and swiped it down, eyes widening when a menu appeared. "What. The. Hay?"

Luna blinked. "What are you doing?"

"You can't see it?" Mirage asked.

"See what?"

"The menu... I can see my user menu." She grimaced. "But no log out option... can't you see it?"

Luna looked from Mirage's hand back to her and back to the hand. "Um. No."

Mirage shook her head. "I have an email from Surgeon... he's asking what happened. But how can I receive this? I'm not logged in!"

Luna moved back and frowned. "That's strange... but, I also recall that you disappeared before the announcement appeared about our victory, and your name was on the list, so the system didn't count you as unplugged at the time."

Mirage shook her head. "But... how?" She scrolled to another screen, and bit her lip, before confirming. As if she were in the middle of a science-fiction movie, a gun materialized in front of her.

Luna gasped. "What is that?"

"My reward from the battle..." Mirage said softly, a Mateba Model 6 Unica in her hands. "It's not the MVP drop, I think that would go to you, but the chances of getting it are astronomically low." Mirage smirked, hand flashing as she opened her menu again, and selected a skill. Several items materialized in front of her, and she set to work right in front of the amazed Luna.

With a few token motions, the Mateba's finish was a trio of shades of blue, going from midnight blue to aquamarine with a metallic sheen, and the handle now looked very similar to moonstone. Although Luna couldn't see what Mirage was doing, it was clear that she had summoned her keyboard, as she typed something very quickly.

"There," Mirage said, handing the gun to Luna, who took it in her hands carefully.

It felt completely real, although lighter than expected. "What did you do to it?"

"I upgraded it," Mirage said, smirk firmly in place. "Ultra-light material coating to make it more durable, still takes .357 magnum, but now it has an added effect with each shot, plus additional damage... I'm actually amazed all of this works in this world... oh, and I changed the color scheme to match its new name."

"What did you call it?"

"Luna."

Luna's smile could have lit the room, and she was just leaning in to thank Mirage more properly when they heard the front door open.

"We're back!" Cadance announced, pushing the door open with one hand, while she held a box on the other. "We're going to need help with the stuff downstairs... Mirage is the guest room clean?"

"Yeah," Mirage answered, emerging from her room, followed by Luna.

Cadance's eyebrow twitched. "Auntie, why are you holding a gun?"

Luna looked down at Luna and grinned sheepishly. "Sorry, just admiring the—"

"Oh!" A voice came from behind Cadance, who stepped to the side to allow a box-carrying Twilight to step into the room. "Is that a .357 Mateba?!" she asked, unaware of Cadance's double-take or Lemon Zest snickering. "Was that the drop from your fight with Arachnid King? What are the odds of getting it? Can I hold it?"

Luna was already handling the gun to Twilight when Cadance stepped in between. "I am deeply disturbed by this callous gun-handling as it is, please don't give it to my student."

"But I know how to use them an—" Twilight trailed off at Cadance's glare. "...aaand I think that it's irresponsible to give someone a gun because they asked nicely?"

Luna shrugged. "I supposed it is indeed a bit misguided to randomly hand a young girl a gun." She gave it back to Mirage.

Mirage chuckled and put it away. "As much as I love them in-game we should really remember they're real here as far as we can tell."

Cadance leaned forward and looked at the two. "Wait. Have you both been drinking?"

"So the stuff that needs to be brought up," Mirage said with a smile. "Where is it?"

"In my car." Cadance gritted her teeth. "Bring the medical bed first, we need to put it together and then transfer Sunset into it." She took a breath. "And then drink some water, grab a notebook and pay attention to how to take care of your comatose body.

Mirage and Luna nodded, heading down to the car while Cadance directed Twilight and Lemon Zest to put the boxes on the table before sending them down to help bring more things inside while she checked on Sunset.

It took some time, but eventually they had assembled the bed, set up and dressed the mattress, and transferred Sunset's body into it.

After that, Cadance walked the whole group through the basic procedures to change an unconscious patient, how to perform range of motion movements to ensure her muscles would not atrophy, as well as explaining what every piece of equipment they bought was for, and how to use it.

"Now, most of this stuff is simple but requires a lot of practice and real training, but I'm not going to send you over to get a nurse assistant certification... for now."

"For now?" Mirage asked.

Cadance took a deep breath. "We're assuming the best outcome will happen soon," she said, looking at the group. "If this takes longer than planned and we can't take you to a hospital, then I will insist on you getting a certification. But for now, I'll be coming by frequently to check on you, so while you follow the instructions I'm giving you, I feel confident you'll be fine."

Mirage nodded soberly.

"Now, as I've emphasized over and over, we need to be very clean for doing any of these things or you risk getting a really bad infection," Cadance continued, "and since you're covered in oil, dirt, crystals fragments and gunpowder, I'm going to do everything—including the stuff you will be doing on your own—this first time. But there are a couple of things only I can do, and I don't want you to attempt it unless I'm here and I give you permission first, understood?"

Mirage nodded a lot more nervously.

Cadance sighed. "Okay. Girls, auntie... please get out of the room, I don't think Sunset wants you to see this."

Luna and the others nodded, walking out and closing the door behind them.

"W-what are we doing now?" Mirage stammered.

"Now I teach you how to insert an indwelling catheter into your body here." Cadance smiled. "And you will not like it."

Mirage gulped and followed Cadance to the bathroom. "Now, first of all, this is how you wash your hands. It's not the usual rinse and shake, so pay attention. And when you dry them, pat them down, don't scrub..."

The group looked up when a slightly green-looking Mirage stepped out of the room, followed by Cadance.

"Is everything alright?" Luna asked.

"Y-yeah," Mirage choked out. "It's good."

"Well, everything's set up, I've written down the change schedule for you, and now we can all go home and panic in peace," Cadance stated.

The others chuckled uncertainly.

"I'm not joking," Cadance said, giving them a flat look. "I'm going home, taking a shower, crawling into my bed and I'm going to have a meltdown."

"Well," Mirage spoke up. "For what it's worth... thank you, Cadance, I don't know what we would have done without you."

Cadance smiled and patted Mirage's shoulder. "We'll get you in your body soon, Mirage... stay strong."

Mirage nodded, pulling Cadance into a hug, before doing the same for Twilight and Zest. "Thank you girls. I have no words..."

"We'll be back tomorrow after classes to help," Twilight promised. "I still have my PC in the lab I used to work on the magic detection tech, so I'll start going through the data... I'll also fish out the notes for my magic detector so we can go over them together and see if we can use it."

"Sounds like a plan," Mirage said. "I'll be working on a spell matrix and taking care of... myself."

Cadance nodded. "Well, come on girls, I'll give you a ride home." She walked to the door with the two girls and looked over her shoulder. "I'll talk to you later, auntie."

Luna nodded waving as they closed the door behind them. She felt Mirage's hand wrap around her own the moment the door closed, and turned to look at her.

"Can you stay?" Mirage asked uncertainly.

Luna took in how she looked even more vulnerable than she had earlier that day, if possible. She couldn't help but nod. "I can." She smiled. "But I'll need to leave early to get home in time to change."

"Thank you," Mirage whispered, pulling Luna into a hug, which she quickly reciprocated.

"However there is something that must be done first," Luna said after a moment. "You need to take a shower. And I'll order some food. Korean?"

Mirage chuckled. "Sure."

Chapter 33: Resurrection

Gunsmoke

by Wanderer D

Chapter 33: Resurrection

As more and more feelings and sensations returned to her body, the voices and sounds beyond the darkness surrounding her started to make more and more sense.

She could recognize now the humid feeling of water around her, and why it made her feel a little bit cold. She was now able to take deep breaths and twitch her fingers as sensation returned to her body.

There was a faint quality to the world around her that instinctively told her that she was not in the 'real' world, and just as she realized that, a sizzling feeling--as if pinpricks were rolling up from her toes to her head--enveloped her. She felt her body change. Felt as if every cell in her body was turning somehow. She felt herself stretch and her hair becoming shorter… she felt her clothes transform around her into a body suit.

It was then that the memories flooded in.

The magical energy flowed down her arms and released in a torrent of destructive energy, straight down at the monster destroying Glocken. She had already felt herself slipping away the moment she had done so.

Thankfully the process wasn't painful. Just as her legs and arms started to burst into pixels of light, she just felt... nothing. She was at peace, knowing that she had destroyed that which had threatened her friends, and even the uncertainty of her future--whether she would return to her real body or not---was not weighing heavily in her mind.

She turned her eyes to Nightmare Moon. Briefly. Almost too briefly. But at least if she disappeared it would be with the memory of her beloved. Or her avatar in any case. Either way, sometimes, this world felt far more real than the 'real world'.

And then the world disappeared and she felt almost like she was once again going through the mirror portal. Actual worlds… some she recognized as videogames, others she had never imagined could exist, flew past her mind's vision and then--

She was staring at a room. It was somewhat familiar… it reminded her of the lab she had helped Twilight build… but it was missing several key components, such as the device to control the diary's influx of magic… but the diary was right there! Innocuously resting on a platform with several cables attached to it.

She moved unconsciously forward, reaching out to grab it. It was the last piece of the puzzle. The one item that could return her to her old self. But something stopped her. She felt her fingertips touch a thick glass-like surface and as much as she pressed, she couldn't push past it. She tried banging her fists against it, to no avail.

Sunset pressed her hands against the surface and screamed, calling for help, trying to get anyone's attention. For a short while, it seemed like no one could even hear her, but soon enough the door into the small lab opened, allowing a familiar figure to step in.

"Professor Sombra!" she cried out, trying to get his attention. Things were still a blur. Why was she here? Were her friends okay? Had she stopped the monster?

Sombra appeared to not have heard her, rather heading straight for another computer near the diary and quickly typing something. Sunset couldn't see what was on the screen itself, but Sombra did not seem pleased with whatever information it was showing. It was then that doubt entered Sunset's mind. Why was the book there, of all places? Since when did Sombra actually know it was an integral part of their research?

As if suddenly aware of her presence, Sombra straightened up, and he turned to look straight at her. His green eyes widened a bit while a savage smile crept up his face. "My, my. Seems my net DID catch something."

"Professor, what do you think you're doing?" Sunset asked, retreating a little as the grinning human sat down in front of what she now realized was a computer. She looked around, finding only darkness around her, and tried to float away, but she could only reach so far before some sort of invisible barrier would stop her from moving further.

She was trapped.

"You might be asking yourself how you ended up here," Sombra said after a moment. "I wouldn't know, since I can't hear you, but that seems to me like a good guess as to your state of mind." He leaned back, sneering at her casually, "What I did was nothing new, really. It happened with Alfheim as well… you see, when SAO was thrown into disarray, a certain company figured out a way to funnel users into another server, instead of back into their bodies."

He motioned with his hand at the equipment behind him. "After I got a hold of this little book of yours, I was able to create the parameters I needed based on Sparkle's experiments. I realized early on that direct usage of its power was outside my ability… however, through the game mechanics and the facilitating investigation you both had already started, I was able to imbue a character I created in GGO with incredible power… but it was not enough.

His eyes darkened and he glared at Sunset. "As soon as I realized that you had the power to contain all of that… magic, as you call it… inside of you, I developed a process to emulate it. But it was not enough. So, I emulated the portals that Sparkle was creating and hacked my way into administration, allowing me to produce and control monsters as needed... when my boss monster finally killed you..." he grinned in response to her frown. "I channelled your mind into my private server, trapped it, and we are now having this one sided conversation."

"You won't get away with this, Sombra!" Sunset shouted, smashing her fists against the computer's screen in a futile attempt to break through. "The others will catch you and then you'll have to deal with the consequences of what you're doing!"

Sombra tilted his head. "I'm sure you're saying something along the lines of, 'justice will prevail' or 'you won't get away with this'," he teased. "But that's the thing, my dear, I already did! Not only are your friends practically setting up your funeral already, but they have given up hope of ever getting you back!"

"You see, your… soul and your mind were linked to your body, and now, thanks to some clever programing and a simple trap, I have all that I need to evolve from this human shell into something so much better!" He started laughing at Sunset's fury. "But don't worry too much, my little piece of data. I have just the best use for you… I'm going to compress you and reprogram you to feed my avatar all of your magic and power.

"Goodbye, Sunset Shimmer. And thank you," Sombra whispered as he started typing.

Sunset felt the invisible cage around her become smaller and smaller, just as she felt her whole body slowly--but thankfully painlessly--being torn apart. Her consciousness drifted away, the last thing she was able to see being Sombra's smug smile as the world and everything around her became irrelevant.

Mirage's eyes snapped open the moment the last particle of light drifted into her.

She was laying on her back in a cavern, and she was alone. Or was she? The familiar sound of gunshots and explosions reached her past the cascading water next to her and she pushed herself up slowly, taking stock of her situation.

Her radio crackled in. "...it hasn't pixelated yet."

"What's… what's going on?" She whispered. She narrowed her eyes, able to see some shapes through the curtain of the waterfall. It was then that one big, black shape arose from the waters past it, growled something she couldn't hear and rushed at something directly outside and above Mirage.

She heard Nightmare Moon gasp on the radio.

In an instant her hands were extended outwards and a massive fireball shot from them, drying up the cavern floor and evaporating the waterfall as it went through and smashed into the monster.

Even though she had been unconscious after Sombra had… done whatever he had done to her, she had somehow been aware of his presence and of him somehow syphoning energy from her while she was unguarded, and though this creature looked nothing like the Crystal Prep professor, Sunset knew immediately it was him.

She heard a familiar whisper behind her, "It's you…" but as much as she wanted to turn to see Nightmare Moon, her eyes were set on Sombra as he pushed himself up, snarling at her.

"You're not laying a claw on any of my friends." She growled. Deep within herself she felt a familiar call and she allowed her instincts to summon two familiar flaming guns which cooled down into metal within her grasp. "I'm going to feed you these bullets… and make sure you and your experiments never endanger any more lives!"

She pointed her gun straight at the monster.

"Do you hear me?!" She asked, meeting Sombra's angry gaze with her own. "This stops here and now, Sombra!"

For a moment, the whole little valley was silent.

"Who?" Lion asked.

"Sombra!" Nightmare Moon roared suddenly, making Heavy Collar jump. "How dare you cause all that damage and risk the lives of so many students? Don't you have any decency?"

Sombra snorted. "Don't lecture me on that, 'Nightmare Moon'." He growled, looking up at the sniper. "Students are seldom worth the effort we go through with them. A few less wouldn't be a tragedy."

Rather than reply, Nightmare Moon let loose another shot from her rifle, which went through Sombra's head without even staggering him. However, Mirage was right behind, and just as his face regenerated, he found himself gazing down the barrel of a fiery gun.

The shot reverberated in the valley, but Sombra had dodged, letting the bullet fly past his head as he took a swipe at the gunslinger.

However, Mirage was no stranger to fights in close quarters. She twisted her body just as fast as Sombra's attack and felt it slide past her, missing her by less than an inch. Already—as his effort carried him forward—she was pressing her other gun against his back and pulling the trigger.

Sombra cried in pain as he twisted just in time to avoid a direct shot, but he wasn't able to escape all damage. His left shoulder was blown off, and the wound steamed with the dark ichor he had for blood in this world as it splashed out before pixelating into the air.

He rolled back and away, holding his shoulder and growling at Sunset. "How were you able to hurt me?!"

Mirage grinned. "Oh you felt that? Welcome to my world!"

Sombra's reaction was to try and use the momentum to slash at Sunset, who managed to lean back just enough that he tore the tip of her coat. The pair skipped back, landing a few feet away and staring at each other with open hostility.

"You might have come back, but this is the last time you will stand in my way!" Sombra shouted, moving impossibly fast towards Mirage.

The gunslinger leaned down and rolled under his wide swipes, realizing that—for all his power and agility—Sombra had no real skill in combat. He had relied completely on his powers, immunities and brutality to take down the others.

Despite her advantage, she was still using all of her concentration to keep up with the monster. Mirage had more skill, but the longer things went on, the more likely it would be for Sombra to score a direct hit.

For her part, Nightmare Moon was gritting her teeth in frustration. She didn't have a clear shot most of the time, but the few instances where she might have been able to help were being thwarted by the fact that a shot from her wouldn't even slow the beast down.

Focused as she was, she was still able to hear something.

Blinking, she leaned back, noticing a melody, a ballad almost, riding the winds of the battlefield. There was never background music in this game and yet… there was something familiar about it.

Words filtered in through the air and haze of battle, the familiar voices of the Rainboom's song that managed to lift her spirit.

Nightmare Moon smiled at the words and looked down, intending to rejoin the battle when she noticed that her rifle was glowing a pale deep purple.

Eyes widening, she looked through her scope at the others, who hadn't noticed a similar effect on them. But if it was what she thought it was...

Mirage and Sombra paused as the words and music gained strength. Although they didn't take their eyes off of each other, Sombra seemed nervous, somehow sensing that the music had been responsible for the shields that had appeared earlier, and possibly influenced the return of Sunset Shimmer; Mirage simply grinned.

Sombra almost didn't notice the prediction line positioning straight on his chest, but some instinct told him to jump, and as he did, a perfect heart-shot ended up carving a hole through his stomach and making him howl in pain.

"But how?!" he gasped as his body regenerated at a much slower rate until it stopped, healed, but not completely.

It was then that the sky opened.

Little holes, too small for a human or even something half the size of one started appearing all over the battlefield. Through them, all fighters could see a different sky, a distant crowd of people, a stage and familiar faces.

The voices and music of the Rainbooms flooded the battlefield and Nightmare Moon immediately spoke into the radio. "Our weapons have been enhanced! Let's take him down!"

She hadn't even finished saying that when another shot cracked through the valley, blowing up Sombra's knee.

It didn't take much longer for the others to start firing as well at the crumpling figure. For the first time since the battle started, Sombra seemed to be at a disadvantage, but it didn't last long.

"Come on gang! We're winning!" Wallflower shouted, emptying her unique weapon on the collapsed creature.

Mirage, who skipped back to avoid being hit by accident noticed with some worry that the damaged ichor that had previously faded as soon as it left Sombra's body wasn't pixelating anymore.

"I will not fall here! This world! This universe will belong to me!"

As bullets shook his body, Sombra growled, his cries turning incoherent. He curled up and then sprung into the air, trailing behind the shadows that had flowed out of him like blood.

"Guys, be careful!" Mirage warned, stepping back and keeping a wary eye on the unhinged professor.

Sombra cackled, or maybe it was a painful gasp… it was an odd, repetitive sound that sounded wetter by the second. Out of his back, long, shadowy appendages emerged and crashed with tremendous speed and force on the ground, digging into the rock as if it was made of paper.

One by one, more of them formed until he was held above the surprised group by six, spider-like legs.

Smoky ichor still dripped from Sombra's wounds and pixelated a few inches away from his body, but he didn't seemed weakened by this. If anything, his unusual sounds seemed to gain strength the more time passed.

His pain-filled red eyes bulged out as his jaw opened and widened more and more, resembling a twisted, monstrous smile until his whole humanoid body was split in half and had transformed into an upper and lower jaw full of tendrils of smoke that resembled fangs, his arms and legs dangling like sick reminders of his once human-like appearance.

"Take cover!" Surgeon ordered over the radio. "We don't know what he's going to do next, but if it's an area attack we cannot allow it to hit us all."

As if reacting to his orders, black thorns emerged from the long, chitinous legs as they continued to widen. Sombra's new body grew bigger until the appendages were each the size of a tree trunk and didn't fit anymore in the tiny valley, forcing Sombra to shift his legs out to maintain his balance, digging them into the side of the mountain and into the ground below.

Now much bigger than the creature that had attacked Glocken, Sombra turned to face the tiny beings below, clicking and giggling in a slightly hysterical way, that could be mistaken for incoherent words—but were really nothing more than mindless noises—babbled out of his distorted mouth.

With incredible speed, tendrils shot from his legs and body, smashing through, trees, rocks and even magical shields.

Mirage watched in horror as one of the spikes went straight through a rock and impaled Thunderbird, who had been taking cover behind it. The scout vanished in a puff of pixels without being able to even scream.

The Lion fared a little better, dodging desperately the moment the closest spike shot his way. The tiniest glint of a shield formed around him, but couldn't stop the loss of his left arm. Lion cursed and rolled on the floor and sprinted away without stopping for a second, barely avoiding another thorn tearing where his legs had been.

Heavy Collar rolled under one thorn, while Nightmare Moon jumped over it. The pair were doing their best to keep alive and barely managing to do so out of sheer luck and skill.

Surgeon, Butcher and Wallflower made their way to the waterfall as they dodged and shot the legs. Despite the power of Butcher's weapon and the magical boost from the Rainbooms, he didn't seem to be inflicting any damage at all.

"The legs are definitely not its weak point," Mirage heard him mutter.

Where Sukiru had been nested, there was nothing but rubble and collapsed trees, with no sign of the sniper.

"We're getting decimated here!" Heavy Collar shouted, rather redundantly given the circumstances. "We need a plan!"

"That's not what decimated means!" Mirage shouted in return, dodging the spikes. She had dived into the lake, emerging soaked but intact from the attack. Sombra had paused now, swaying and biting at the air in some sort of delusional anger.

She had taken cover behind one of the large boulders on the edge, hiding from its crazed eyes.

Nightmare Moon ran to her side and ducked, looking up in disgust and awe at what Sombra had become. "That has to be the ugliest thing I have ever seen," she muttered, before looking at Mirage. "And you are the most beautiful thing I never expected to see again. Don't. Ever. Do that again!"

Mirage gave her a pained smile before looking up at the monster again. "Moon, I can see the diary up there."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened and she looked up, trying to follow Mirage's line of sight. "I don't see it."

"It's there," Mirage insisted, "in the lower jaw. I can see the magic swirling around it. It's what's giving him the power to do this."

"Is that the only way to stop him?" Moon asked nervously. "Can't we blow up its eyes from a safe distance?"

Above them, Sombra—seemingly unable to recognize who was who anymore—had turned to try to destroy the cave behind the waterfall, after it had spotted Surgeon and the others running in through it.

"I have a plan," Mirage confessed.

"I'm not going to like it, am I?" Nightmare Moon asked, forcing her eyes away from the creature to look at her recently-recovered lover. "You can't do this to me. You can't do something that will get you killed again. I'm not sure I could take it..."

Mirage simply pulled her into a kiss that made Nightmare Moon's toes curl, and then started running around the lake. "Let's continue that later!"

"Mirage!" Nightmare Moon shouted. She couldn't lose her! Not again!

She watched in disbelief as Mirage jumped up to the rocky side of the mountain to stand in front of the monstrosity. "Hey! Sombra! You wanted me? Come and get me!"

The creature seemed to tilt its body/head/jaw and after barely a second, it dove forward with impressive speed, carving gashes on the rock with its maw as it closed around Mirage.

Nightmare Moon stared in horror as the creature reared back with a self-satisfied gurgle before it started attacking the cave again. Of Mirage there was no sign.

That is until a bulge seemed to form right on the tip of its lower jaw, expanding and expanding, and even through the creature's shrieks and the song around them, Nightmare Moon could now hear shot after gunshot blasting from within its form.

In retrospect, she would compare it to an egg exploding.

But at the time, all she saw was ichor flying in all directions and Mirage falling from far up, arms wrapped around something pressed to her chest.

The beast above convulsed, it's gargantuan legs glowing from within as they started cracking loudly, almost like trees breaking. Each piece of shadowy chitin would dissipate into clouds of shadows, and through the haze, past the figure of Mirage, turning in the air to try and land on her feet, Nightmare Moon saw something.

Another figure, almost human but also wolf-like, reforming from the center of the shadows. A deep anger seeped into her heart at the sight of the reforming shape of Sombra.

This creature had almost ruined everything. It had turned Twilight's and Sunset's experiment into an almost fatal losses. Three lives could have been lost that day due to his interference. And then she had lost Sunset just because of him!

She lined up her rifle, focusing and imagining all the energy from the song, from her love for Sunset, from her own love of this world and the real world and her students and family seeping into the bullet.

Her shot was true, and it glowed with blue-white energy, casting almost a laser-like trail behind it as it flew.

The magic-imbued bullet, carrying within it the hopes and powers of the Rainbooms, her own hopes and the magic her lover had brought into this world, blew up the distant figure, and like a thunderbolt splitting the night, the sky went white for a seconds with the crackling roar of displaced air.

And then Mirage splashed into the lake.

Nightmare Moon stared at the form of her lover as Mirage stood up shakily and waved at her with a forced grin. "Nothing to it."