For sometime Sunset Shimmer had wondered about her life, especially after meeting Twilight and the Rainbooms. Her life had truly become different; she had become more introspective, spending more time reflecting. She knew, somehow, that her meeting with Twilight and the Rainbooms had created something good. But where it was leading her, she didn’t know.
It had been a week since her confrontation with Adagio. It was a quiet Saturday morning, and she just woke up. Sonata just arrived last night, and was still asleep. She took that time to reflect. Much has changed since she first came to Canterlot High, and so much has changed since the Fall Formal and meeting the Rainbooms.
Her introspective mood deepened a bit more. Soon Sonata would wake up, she realized. She smiled a bit while she sat on her bed. She never had anyone else live with her ever since she came here from Equestria. It was a big shock the first day she arrived, looking very much different from the way she was then. She wasn’t a pony anymore!
Somehow that first look on herself, as she passed by a mirror, made a lasting impression on her. She realized that it might be a new start, a new beginning for her. That was true then, and it was so much more true now. She could see some parallels between how it was then and how it is now. So much changes, and at the same time a beginning. She had quite a few of those in her life, she mused.
It was much as true now, with Sonata around, and with that confrontation with Adagio. She just shook her head. She wondered what else would be coming along. She heard Sonata stir. She knew she just woke up. Sunset took a few more minutes to reflect, then went out to go to Sonata’s room.
After doing groceries with Sonata, with Pinkie Pie coming along to help out, they were back in the house. Sunset had just finished checking on her emails, and now she had not much left to do. Pinkie and Sonata had also finished cleaning the house, and were now in Sonata’s room chatting.
The two seems to be getting along well, she thought. She leaned back on her chair, taking the time to relax. It was almost 5 p.m., and there were still a few hours left before dinner. The afternoon was quite cool enough to go out, which she wanted to do just then.
Guess I’ll go and have a walk before dinner, she decided. She changed to her black leggings, a nice white shirt and her favorite leather jacket. Even if it was leather, it was quite light and also provided much warmth, especially since the evenings can be quite cool later. She peeked at Sonata’s room and found her and Pinkie still talking.
“I’m out to take a walk”, she called out to them, and Pinkie waved at her.
“All right, we’ll just stay here and guard the place”, Pinkie said. Sunset went down the stairs and then out the house. She locked the house, just in case anyone tried to come in unannounced. Knowing Pinkie, she knew that they’d be spending most of the time talking and sharing things in the room than anything else.
It was a cool afternoon, with few people out. Sunset rarely walked around the neighborhood, and she thought it might be good to see more of it. She found it quite amusing that she was out just as the sun was setting, as if to match her name.
The neighborhood where she’s in was quiet and peaceful, with houses that have well-manicured lawns. Although daily she saw the houses as she walked to and from school, she never really took the time to look at them, or really get to know the neighborhood.
Funny I never really noticed the houses before, she thought as she walked on. She marveled at how well kept the houses were, and thought that her own house was just as well maintained as the others there were. She thought of getting to know more of her neighbors, but then wondered how they would react to a teenage girl going up to them to greet them.
She passed a few more houses before coming up to an intersection, which she then crossed carefully. Traffic was light in her place. She has seen few cars pass by daily, and since it was a Saturday there were even fewer cars out.
Maybe I should exercise more often, she thought. Even though she walked daily, she never really thought of walking as a means of refreshing herself, or thought much of exercise, something which she thought would be a good thing to do. She began to mentally think of what she would have to buy for an exercise program. She thought of investing in a home gym equipment, like an adjustable bench, perhaps a barbell and a few dumbbells, and some plates.
She still thought of those when she realized she had wandered much farther than she had originally planned. She stopped for a moment, deciding whether to go back or go much further. She decided on the latter, as she thought that it wasn’t really that far, and she had just been walking for only a good ten minutes.
She clearly had gone to a part of her neighborhood that she rarely, if ever, had seen. For her walk she took a route that was opposite from Canterlot High, so it wasn’t unusual for her to see different sights than the ones she was normally familiar with.
She could see a park nearby, with a flat ground. There was a playground for kids, as well as some benches. The benches were under the trees, which could be a good place to rest or just reflect on a good day. She walked over the park and then got to a path that went around it. It was a rather large park, with a nice tree-shaded path as well as the benches to sit on to. A nice place for introspection, she observed as she continued to walk around it.
She was tempted to sit down and rest, but then she figured she wasn’t really tired yet, and promptly continued her walk. She noticed the path, as well as the streets, seem to go around the park, and she followed the path as well. Just ahead she could clearly see a Byzantine-style church. She quickened her pace a bit, partly so as to give herself more exercise, and partly to get to the church faster. She thought it funny that she never really had entered a church before in Canterlot City.
Not that there was any need for her to go into one, she realized, as she did come from a world that didn’t seem to have one. Which gave her another to think about as she walked on. Around the park, she noticed, there were also houses around it. Her mind however was more on the church nearby. As she came to it, she noticed the sign just in front and at the left side of the church.
“The Annunciation of the Theotokos Orthodox Church”, Sunset read the sign. She looked at the church, which had a lovely Byzantine design. It had a small dome, and off to its side is a small bell tower. She wasn’t sure if she should go in; however, curiousity got the better of her, and she headed for the church’s entrance.
She opened the door, and saw that there was another door right in front of her. She opened it slowly, peeking in. The church’s inside was lighted by the last rays of the afternoon sun coming in through the windows. She quietly went in. looking around as she saw that the church was covered from wall to ceiling with what appeared to be images, or what she thought to be paintings. In front of her she saw more of those, as well as what looked to be a door at the center.
She stood there for a moment, not exactly knowing what to do. She could also detect a faint, but sweet, odor about the church. What it was, she wasn’t exactly sure yet. Part of her wanted to leave just then, but another part of her seemed to draw her into the church. She went towards a seat and just sat there as she continued to set her gaze about. She wasn’t exactly sure what to do as she sat there, but she could feel a calm come into her, and she could feel her mind clear. She just closed her eyes and sat there until a voice took her out of her peaceful state.
“You seem to be new here”, a voice said to her. She opened her eyes and looked up, and there saw a blonde man, almost muscular by her own account, standing next to her. She could see that he seemed friendly, though at the same time quiet, almost introspective. Sunset smiled and nodded.
“You could say that”, she replied. The man smiled at her.
“I’m Jean Paul Valley”, he said as introduction.
“Sunset Shimmer”, she said, introducing herself as well.
“So you’re here for Vespers?” he asked her. She just looked dumbfounded, not knowing what to say.
“Well, I just passed by here…” she stammered a bit.
“Ah, I thought you would be attending then”, Jean Paul said. They were both quiet for a moment.
“So what church is this?” Sunset asked. Though she did know what it was, she felt like asking it to keep some sort of conversation.
“It’s Annunciation of the Theotokos Orthodox Church. It’s Antiochian Orthodox”, Jean Paul explained. “I am rather new here myself, having been here in the city rather…recently, you might say.” He said those last words carefully, almost deliberately, Sunset noticed, but she did not dare ask more about that.
“I have not been in a church before...” Sunset admitted. Jean Paul then looked at her quizzically, almost unable to believe what he heard.
“So this is your first time then in any church?” he asked. Sunset nodded. He then smiled at her again. “Fr. George is a very friendly priest. He has been here for sometime now, and maybe you would like to talk to him.”
“I sure would”, Sunset merely replied.
“We will start in a few minutes. Saturday Vespers takes about an hour, much longer than daily Vespers”, explained Jean Paul as he took his seat. “Other people should be coming here soon as well before it starts.” Sunset then sat quietly there, unsure of what to do next, but she could see that it was a new experience for her, something which she thought she should try and see.
After Vespers, Jean Paul went over to Fr. George, who had gone out from the sanctuary after taking his vestments off. After briefly talking, he motioned to Sunset, who was still seated. She went over to them and he introduced her to Fr. George. The kindly priest smiled at her.
“So this is your first time in a church?” She nodded at that. “I think there is much that we need to discuss then, but I think that for now what you have seen here is more than enough.” He then turned then to Jean Paul and thanked him for attending, then turned again his attention to Sunset.
“If ever you need to come here, the church is open any time”, he said as a welcome to her. After a few more words, she then excused herself to walk back home. On the way home, she spent some more time reflecting, wondering why she had gone there, and why for a long time she had not even thought of going into a church. She mused on that some more as she made her way back to her house. She still did have much to do though, and that she also thought of Sonata and what dinner they would have. All she knew though was that it might be a new beginning for her, though she’s not necessarily sure yet where it might lead to.
Author's Note
Just a quick note: more explanations would be on my blog
It took more than a few weeks later before Sunset remembered about exercise again. Although she made it a point to try and walk almost every afternoon, she didn’t really get that much urge to get more into it until she and Sonata passed by a sports shop one time at the mall. She had continually promised Sonata that they’d go to the mall, but school and their home-based jobs had kept them from really going out. Until one Saturday.
Saturday was the one time during the week that they both had more time to do things aside from school and work, though for one reason or another both of them kept putting it off. Now Sunset realized that there wasn’t much to do at home, and they had both enough money to buy for their home.
“Well, at least we got two laptops, but we do need something else…” Sunset said as they walked around the mall. They both walked around a bit, not really eyeing anything to buy in particular, but then Sunset remembered that she would get into some type of exercise program. She stopped and turned to Sonata.
“I’ve been thinking”, she began, “maybe we need to get something to keep fit.”
“But we walk daily to school”, Sonata said.
“Not’s what I meant”, Sunset said emphatically. “We need something more, something which would keep us more fit than we are now.”
“Why’d you think of that?” Sonata wanted to know.
“You remember I took up walking a few weeks back”, Sunset recounted. “While doing it, I realized that we haven’t really had that much exercise. Look at Dashie”, she added.
“Hhmm…what about her?” Sonata wondered.
“Well, she’s fit, and she’s energetic”, Sunset said.
“But you’re also energetic”, Sonata said, meaning that as a compliment.
“No, I don’t think I’m doing enough when it comes to fitness”, Sunset said with emphasis. “Let’s go to the sports shop and see what we can find.” Sunset led the way, and Sonata followed closely behind. Sonata wasn’t exactly the physical type, Sunset figured, but she could be persuaded once she saw that it might be good. Or fun at least. They both went their way into the mall. Sunset knew just where the sports shop was, even though they haven’t been to the mall that often.
Finally they came to the shop. Sonata looked around as they went in. It wasn’t often that she went inside one, if she even ever thought of going into one alone. Sunset also felt like a stranger inside the shop.
It’s the sort of place Rainbow Dash would be at home with, she mused as both of them looked around. Sunset wondered if Rainbow Dash ever went there often. The store clerk came over them and smiled when he saw them.
“Well, it’s not often that we get teen visitors here”, he said.
“We’re looking for some good exercise equipment”, Sunset said.
“Well, this is your place here”, he said to them with a booming voice. “Finest sports shop in all of Canterlot City. What exactly are you looking for?”
“I’m thinking of starting a strength training program”, Sunset said after thinking for a few seconds. “What do you think would be good?” Sonata just gave her a strange look, but Sunset gave her a look that practically said for her not to ask any questions just yet.
“I can probably recommend for you a barbell set, complete with some plates. Have you tried lifting weights before?” Sunset shook her head. Not that she ever tried, either here or back in Equestria. She thought it strange that she never really considered having a strength training program before until she read one by accident in the morning while browsing online.
“Well, I could probably have you start on a 150 lbs. set”, the man continued, and Sunset gasped, but he just laughed. “Don’t worry about it, it will be just a barbell set with removable plates, and I can probably sell you an adjustable bench as well so you can have an all around workout.”
“Wouldn’t that be too much?” Sonata asked, but the man just shook his head.
“That’s probably not much for those who have been doing it for years, but you’re still starting, so there would be plenty of weights there for you to use up for the rest of the year”, he said.
“I think I’ll get that set”, Sunset said, convinced by his explanation. “And I might take a few dumbbell pairs as well.” She began selecting some pairs, which ranged from 6 lbs. all the way up to 20 lbs. The clerk nodded as he listed the items.
“I think you have most of what you need. Would you like to add a lat machine set to the bench?” he said as he pointed to a tall, tower-like contraption attached to one end of the bench, which had cables as well as a bar.
“I think that would be good”, Sunset agreed. They then went over to the counter to tally the price. After figuring out how much it all cost, Sunset and Sonata handed out the money to him.
“I don’t think you’d be able to carry all of those to your place”, he said, “unless you have some magic by any chance.” Sunset and Sonata looked at each other, then laughed good naturedly at what he said.
“Well, I’ll have them delivered to your place then”, he said. “I think you’ll be able to get them this afternoon, if that would be okay.”
“Yup, I think we won’t have a problem with that”, Sunset remarked. He then took out his calling cards and gave it to them.
“If you need more sporting supplies, then you know where to find me”, he said to them. “My name’s Boom Biceps.” Sunset then realized why she thought he looked familiar, or sort of familiar at least.
“So you must be Bulk’s dad?” she said rather loudly, which she didn’t mean to.
“Yup. You must be from Canterlot High then”, he said. Sunset affirmed that.
“I guess I’ll give you a discount”, he decided as he handed them back part of what they paid him. “Anyone from Canterlot High is good, and you’re always welcome here.” They both thanked him gleefully, then happily they went out to get back home as fast as they could.
“Do we have space for all that?” Sonata inquired as they walked home.
“Yup”, Sunset replied. “There’s much space at the back of the yard. It has some roof there where we can have all that equipment. It would be nice”, she added, “since it’s outside, and won’t be too hot.”
“So you had it all planned then?” Sonata said.
"Not really”, Sunset admitted. “I just figured some of it along the way, like where they should be placed.” They then continued on towards their home, and Sunset can’t wait to have the equipment arrive so she can set it up.
Late in the afternoon a delivery truck came by. Boom Biceps got out together with two of his assistants, and they unloaded the items.
“Where would we put all that equipment?” he asked as Sunset let them in.
“We have much space at the back”, she said as she led them through the kitchen, and out to the yard. Boom looked around, nodding with approval as he surveyed the area.
“Not bad”, he assessed. “We’ll get the equipment from the truck, then help you set them up and tell you a few more things about it.” He and his assistants then went and began unloading all that Sunset and Sonata bought. They then began to set it up, Sunset and Sonata helping out. While they set it up, Boom told them some of the exercises that could be done, and even demonstrated some of them. After all of the equipment had been set up and arranged, he thanked them and reminded them again of the store, after which they left.
Sunset then went upstairs to change to more comfortable clothes for working out. She had shorts on plus a sleeveless shirt. She did a few movements to warm herself up, then strode to the yard and looked at the weights. Boom had placed the barbell at its rack on the bench, the bar loaded with around 30 lbs. of weight, 15 lbs. on each end. Sonata came out to watch her. She had also changed to very much the same clothes that Sunset wore.
With a deep breath, Sunset went to the bench, lay down on it and underneath the bar, then for a moment stared up as she grasped the bar. She closed her eyes for a moment, then opened them and with a heave, took the barbell off its rack and then began to do some bench presses. After finishing a set, she smiled as she sat up.
She felt energized, and actually felt more alive. She realized that she just accomplished something, and then more eagerly she went to the next set of exercises.
After 20 minutes, she had completed all of her workout for the day. She was tired, but at the same time felt more lively. She knew that she had started something that would make her more fit. She couldn’t wait to tell the group about it. While Sonata started her own routine, she went to the kitchen to drink water and look what she could eat to fill her up.
Sunset then sent a group message to the others about what she and Sonata had just done. Rarity was one of the first to reply.
“Well, I couldn’t imagine myself doing that, dear”, she said in her message. “It would absolutely ruin my fingernails! But if it helps you”, she added, “then I guess there’s nothing wrong with it. Just look out for Sonata or she just might get crushed by all that weight!” Sunset laughed at that last one by Rarity.
Rainbow Dash also replied, and said, “Wow, I couldn’t wait to come over and try it out!” she practically said excitedly on her message. “It’s great that you have equipment there!” Sunset read a few other messages sent in by the group. She smiled as she put her phone down. They had made some progress in doing things, she reflected.
Of course, the toughest part was to keep to their program as much as possible, something that would prove to be a challenge in the coming days, but for now Sunset was at least happy that she had added something that could make a difference in her life…
III. Making It All Work Out
Sunset wasn’t sure what she’s doing wrong. Although she started a strength training program, she can’t seem to really get into it, or kept on forgetting to somehow work out. She knew something was wrong somewhere.
“Maybe you should have a schedule, dear”, Rarity suggested over at lunch in Canterlot High. “It will help if you have a regular schedule for your workouts.”
“I know”, Sunset said. “I try to get it to fit into my schedule, but it seems I have been doing too many things to get around to it.”
“Maybe what you need is a little motivation”, Rainbow Dash said.
“Oh boy, here we go…” Rarity muttered.
“Hey, I’m the sporty one around here!” Rainbow Dash objected.
“Maybe you can help”, Sunset said, brightening up a bit.
“When did you buy your equipment again?” Rainbow Dash asked her.
“It’s been a month ago”, replied Sunset.
“Maybe what you also need is variety”, Applejack added.
“Yeah, maybe I do…” Sunset wasn’t too sure about that yet, since she was just starting, but clearly she needed to have a more firm and consistent schedule if she would achieve something.
“I can probably help out this Saturday”, Rainbow Dash volunteered.
“That would be great”, Sunset agree, and they set Saturday morning for Rainbow Dash to come over and workout with them.
Later, when she and Sonata got home, Sunset changed to her workout clothes and went out to the backyard. Though she already had scheduled for a training session with Rainbow Dash, she wasn’t about to give up just yet to see if she could do it on her own. Sonata followed her out on the yard. The afternoon was just giving way to the evening, and they had turned on the lights on the yard.
Sunset looked at the bench and barbell on it. She knew that she had to do it. She started some warm-up movements for a few minutes. Sonata got a chair and sat, just watching her. After a few minutes, Sunset felt she’s finally prepared, then got to the bench and began one set of bench presses. She knew that she could do it. She somehow needed a motivation to do so. As she worked out, she also thought what could possibly be a good motivation to exercise, apart from getting healthy.
Maybe by Saturday I’ll find out, she thought as she finished her training for the day. She sat on the bench, tired but otherwise feeling better. She knew that working out had a good effect on her, but she also knew that she needed to find how to keep on doing it on a more regular basis. She looked forward to the workout session with Rainbow Dash as Sonata got ready to do her workout as well.
That Saturday morning, Sunset got up early. At first she thought of going out for a walk that morning, but then decided to do it in the afternoon instead so she can have the strength she will need for the workout with Rainbow Dash. Sonata was just as excited about the workout, knowing that Rainbow Dash is very much active and can give a new perspective to working out. A few more minutes went by before Rainbow Dash arrived, wearing her workout outfit.
Rainbow Dash wore a blue sleeveless shirt and cycling shorts. She waved at Sonata, who greeted her at the door. Sunset looked up when she saw her come in.
“Well, let’s get this workout going!” Rainbow Dash said energetically.
“The equipment is at the yard”, Sunset said, leading her to the back. Sonata followed behind closely. When Rainbow Dash saw it, she gasped with delight.
“Now, this is what I call a gym!” she gushed as she went over them. “We really should get this at home.” Sunset smiled as Rainbow Dash went and looked at what she had.
“Well, looks like I’m gonna enjoy working out here!” Rainbow Dash finally said after she finished inspecting the equipment.
“So, should we start now?” Sunset asked?
“Absolutely!” declared Rainbow Dash. They started off with a few warm-up exercises before finally heading to the bench.
“I always start off with the bench press”, Rainbow Dash said as she looked over at some of the plates before choosing the weight she would do for the day.
“I also do that”, Sunset simply said.
“That’s good”, Rainbow Dash said with approval. “Nice to start off with a power move to get things going”, she continued as she lay down and slid under the bar. Her expression changed as she began to concentrate, then started to do some presses. After she was done, Sunset followed, taking off some plates to adjust to the weight she can handle, then after she was through Sonata followed. For all the exercises they followed that order, with Rainbow Dash leading off and then Sunset, with Sonata last.
The workout session took over an hour since there were three of them doing it. At some points Rainbow Dash would explain for a bit what she would do before they would do the exercise. After they were done with the session, they sat around in the gym.
“So what’s the problem with your workout?” she asked while they rested.
“I can’t seem to find the right motivation for it”, Sunset admitted.
“Well, there are ways to get motivated”, Rainbow Dash explained. “One way is to have music, if that wouldn’t distract you. Try to get something that would get you into the mood to workout, as well as let you continue working out. Or you could find some videos to watch that might inspire you.”
“Hhmm—I never really thought of those”, Sunset said.
“I think you’ll get it. Another way to be motivated is to have goals”, Rainbow Dash added.
“I already have some goals”, Sunset replied.
“But it shouldn’t be too hard or almost impossible”, Rainbow Dash said, “or you’ll just as quickly lose inspiration if it’s too hard to get to.”
“I think I’ll remember that”, Sunset noted.
“Sure you will”, Rainbow Dash said proudly, “because I taught you that.”
“Thanks for helping me out”, Sunset said after they have been rested enough.
“No problem”, Rainbow Dash said. “I might come here more often, if we don’t buy gym equipment as well.”
“Maybe you might get one soon”, Sonata said.
“Well…I don’t know really”, Rainbow Dash said, her expression changing a bit. “My dad never really bought me much…” her voice trailed off then, but she quickly changed her mood once more. “Well, I gotta go now! See you all Monday!” She then waved at them as she headed out the door.
Sunset went for her walk that afternoon. She and Sonata had just cleaned the house, as they usually do on Saturday afternoon. Having done what they could for the day, they decided to unwind. Sonata watched television in her room. Sunset called out to her that she would be taking a walk, then she proceeded to go to the park.
Just like when she took a walk a few weeks back, that Saturday was cool. There were a few people out of their houses, with some children playing on their yards. She quickened her pace to a brisk walk, so as to make it more of an exercise than a leisurely walk.
When she got to the park, she went to one of the benches under the tree and just sat there. She knew that she would have to do more if she would like to get in shape, and she resolved to do something about getting more motivation.
Maybe music will help, she said to herself as she thought of Rainbow Dash’s advice. After a few more minutes, she got up and was about to go home when she saw Annunciation of the Theotokos Orthodox Church nearby. She remembered there was Vespers that afternoon, and decided to head there and check it out again.
When she got to the church, she went in and sat down near the spot where she sat the first time she entered it. She was early again, she decided, as the place was still empty. She wasn’t even sure why she’s there, but after what she experienced the first time she was there, she wanted to see more of it. She just sat there as before, waiting for Vespers to start.
“Looks like you’re early again”, a voice said. She recognized it, and turned to see Jean Paul Valley looking at her with a smile.
“Well, I decided to go here again after taking a walk”, Sunset explained. Jean Paul sat next to her.
“You don’t seem to walk much often though”, he observed. Sunset shook her head.
“I’m trying to get the motivation to exercise”, she admitted after a few seconds. Jean Paul looked at her, assessing the situation before finally speaking up.
“Maybe I can help”, he offered. Sunset looked at him with a questioning gaze. “I also workout, so maybe I can help you out some more.” Sunset was just silent, unsure of what to say. Jean Paul then continued with what he was trying to say.
“How do you exercise? Do you have equipment, or go to a gym?” he asked her.
“I have my own gym at home…” she said, letting her voice trail off. He nodded in understanding.
“I know how it is to train at home”, he said. “It is not easy to be motivated at home, with so many distractions, but it can be done if you will focus.” With what he said, something clicked with Sunset.
Of course, I need to focus on it, she realized. She had always been focused in whatever she did, but it seemed that this is one thing that eluded her in getting fit. Now she can see why she couldn’t get properly motivated.
“I think I finally got the answer to my workout”, she said to him.
“That’s good”, he said with a nod. “Have you also considered adding some type of martial arts into your training?” She again shook her head.
“I’m full with my schedule as it is”, she said. “I have enough to do for school, and then I have this writing job as well.” Jean Paul took out his wallet and handed to her his card.
“If you need to have more training, I’d be willing to help”, he said. “Just think about it, then if you’re ready, just send me a message or give me a call.” Sunset looked over the card, then nodded and kept it.
“Christmas is coming soon”, Jean Paul remarked, changing the subject.
That’s right, Sunset remembered. There would be a Christmas party at Canterlot High. I need to prepare for it.
“It will be coming in a few weeks”, Sunset said.
“Have you done anything to prepare for it?’ he asked her.
“Well, we will have to decorate the house soon, and prepare also for the party at our school”, she answered.
“I see…” was the only cryptic remark by Jean Paul. Sunset waited for him to say more, but he didn’t add anything for a little while.
“I think we have a lot to talk about”, he finally said. “But we’ll have to do it slowly. Just see how the martial arts training sounds, then we can go on from there.” Sunset didn’t know what he was referring, but she didn’t bother to ask him anymore. Somehow, by how he said it, it’s as if there’s more to it than what he’s letting on, but she didn’t want to know about it yet somehow.
Later, on her walk home, she thought about the coming Christmas party. She didn’t have much talk with Jean Paul after Vespers, though she did had a short chat with Fr. Rodian after it. Her mind though was more focused on the party, and what would happen there. She began to get excited just thinking about it, as she quickened her pace to get home and have dinner with Sonata.
IV. Christmas At Canterlot High
“Canterlot High will have its yearly Christmas party”, Principal Celestia announced through the school’s intercom that cold Friday in December. “This year’s Christmas party will be on December 18, and we invite you to join us for the celebration at the school gym.” Sunset Shimmer was excited about the coming Christmas party, as was the whole Lab class she was in.
I wonder if Pinkie and Sonata are involved in it somehow, she thought. Knowing how much the two got along when it came to parties, she figured that they have volunteered to be part of its planning at the very least. At least she’ll know at lunch if the two had volunteered for its preparations.
The group met at lunch, chatting about the coming Christmas party. Sunset wasn’t surprised when both Pinkie and Sonata would be one of those who would be preparing the party.
“And guess who is the Christmas party committee chair?” Pinkie said excitedly.
“I’ll take a wild guess and say that it’s you, Pinkie”, Applejack said very nonchalantly.
“How did you know?” Pinkie wondered.
“Just a wild guess”, Applejack retorted.
“I’m so excited about the Christmas party”, Fluttershy beamed happily.
“Agreed”, Rarity said. “But you have to give the party some class, dear”, she said as she motioned to Pinkie Pie.
“Maybe you can join our committee to help out”, Pinkie suggested.
“That would be wonderful!” Rarity said.
“So Sunset, you have an idea what song you’ll sing for the party?” Rainbow Dash asked. Sunset looked blankly at her since she had no idea what Rainbow Dash was talking about.
“I’m not even sure what I should do for the Christmas party”, Sunset replied.
“Well, you’ll have to thank Pinkie for that”, Applejack said to clear up the issue, “since she ‘volunteered’ you to sing for the Christmas party.” Sunset groaned as Pinkie just waved happily at her.
“Don’t worry, there will be others who will be singing as well”, Pinkie said, trying to be helpful, though Sunset wasn’t even sure then what to exactly sing for the Christmas party.
One the way home, she thought what would be a good song to sing, but she can’t think up of one song.
I’m not even sure what Christmas is all about, she thought. Sonata looked at her, and she sighed.
“You know that we don’t even have a clue as to what Christmas is, right?” Sunset asked her. Sonata nodded her head.
Well, that’s one problem we have coming from Equestria, she thought more. I guess I’ll need to research on it. Though she had been going to Canterlot High for some time, Sunset never really joined any of the Christmas parties by the school until now, when she had friends who really cared. She realized she never really bothered to know what Christmas was all about. All she knew was that it was a time when people were generally happy, and that there were much decors and lights all around.
“Feels like we’ve been so self-absorbed all this time”, Sunset said, voicing out her thoughts to Sonata.
“At least it’ll be a happy time of the year”, Sonata said with a big smile. Sunset nodded, though she knew that she’ll have to do better than that if she’ll somehow sing something meaningful for the party.
After they got home, Sunset decided to do some research about Christmas. For much of the remainder of that afternoon, she read what she could about it, but she still couldn’t understand what that time was all about. She looked out the window and sighed, then resolved to go and walk over to Annunciation of the Theotokos Orthodox Church to get more answers. She figured that whatever she was seeking, she would somehow find it there, as she read that Christmas was somehow has some connection to it.
Sunset had reserved Saturday afternoon as her time to walk, and for that Saturday her usual walk had more purpose than ever. She walked with her usual brisk pace as she went over there, trying to formulate the questions she would be asking Fr. Rodian, or whoever else would be there. She got to the church faster than she usually did, or at least it felt so fast for her. She was early, as always. She wasn’t expecting anyone inside yet anyway.
She got in and was about to go to her usual seat when she saw Fr. Rodian preparing the church, straightening the chairs. When he saw her, he smiled and went over to her.
“You are here early for Vespers”, he said as he greeted her.
“Only when I remember to pass by”, she replied to him a bit self-consciously.
“It is always nice to see you attend here”, Fr. Rodian said simply.
“Actually, the reason why I came here is because I have a question”, she said.
“Yes, go on”, Fr. Rodian urged her.
“I am going to sing at our school Christmas party”, Sunset began, “but I don’t even know what Christmas is all about.” Fr. Rodian smiled after she was finished.
“You aren’t Christian then”, he said to her. She shook her head.
“I actually don’t even come from around here”, Sunset said.
“It will be a long story if I told it you all now”, Fr. Rodian said to her. “I think I will just simply say that Christmas is all about giving, and how that act of giving has given us the life we have now.” Sunset looked at him strangely, since she didn’t have the faintest idea what he was trying to say.
“So Christmas is all about that—of giving?” she asked, trying to clarify it.
“It is more than that, really”, Fr. Rodian said. “It is a time of giving, and of sharing. Most of all, it is time of love, and the joy that comes with it.” He paused for a moment to let it sink in.
“Maybe that’s why I see people happy during that time”, Sunset said, voicing out her observation. Fr. Rodian nodded.
“It is that joy, that comes out of love, that makes people happy on that day”, he further emphasized.
“I think I’m getting what it means…” Sunset said, though she was still unsure about it all.
“You do have friends”, he inquired of her, his tone both a question and one of being sure about it.
“You could say that I have discovered them”, she remarked.
“Then carry that in your heart”, he said to her. “You will know what you need to sing once you find that there.”
“I think I know what you’re trying to say now”, she said. Fr. Rodian smiled.
“We have more to talk about when the right time comes”, he said simply. He then went ahead to prepare for Vespers, while Sunset quietly waited. Soon more people came in for Vespers.
On her way home after Vespers, Sunset thought of what Fr. Rodian just said. She had to go deep down to find what Christmas means to her, and how it relates to her and her friends. She knew it would be a big task, since there’s just about one week away from the Christmas party. She walked, lost in thought, when she heard a lovely song coming from one of the houses. She stopped to listen.
The song was beautiful, and at the same time she felt some sort of nostalgia with it. She couldn’t figure out why she felt that way, or what exactly in the song that made her feel that way, but she knew then that she had found the song that she was looking for. She could make out a few words from the song.
“Silent night”, she repeated softly. She then doubled her pace, wanting to get back home quickly to know more about the song. Once she got home, she immediately went to her room, not even remembering to stop by Sonata’s room to check on her. She wanted to know more about the song, unable to get it out of her head. She took out her laptop and began searching for the song, finally coming across a site that has a file of it as well as its lyrics. She listened to it a few times, noting its melody. Finally tired, she took a nap before going down to dinner with Sonata. All throughout dinner she couldn’t take the song out of her head, humming it softly. Sonata noticed her humming and smiled.
“So, you found a new song?” she asked. Sunset nodded.
“I heard it on the way home, and somehow there’s something about it that moved me”, she explained as they ate.
“And you’ll sing it at the Christmas party?” Sonata asked further. Sunset hesitated for a moment. Although she found the song lovely and moving, she wasn’t sure if she would be able to learn it in time for the party. She knew though that if she would want to sing it, she will have to learn it soon.
“I’ll see what I can do about it”, she simply replied. After they have cleaned up, they both went back to their rooms. Sunset continued to listen to the song, following it silently as she read its lyrics. Soon she felt drowsy and fell asleep, the music still playing on her laptop.
It was almost only days away from the Christmas party, and preparations for it were in full swing. Pinkie Pie and Sonata were busy planning and decorating the gym, getting things organized and seeing what could be included into the program. They were helped by Vice-Principal Luna, who was asked by Principal Celestia to oversee the task of preparing the Christmas party. It was a big undertaking which Pinkie didn’t really mind, since she enjoys planning out parties and celebrations.
Although Pinkie and Sonata along with Vice-Principal Luna were the ones who were mainly involved in the preparations, other students also pitched in to help, though they weren’t fully involved as much as Pinkie and Sonata were. Vinyl Scratch was one of those students who helped them out. Photo Finish as well helped them. The Rainbooms wanted to help but Pinkie told them not to or else the surprise would be ruined, leaving them wondering what could Pinkie be planning. Even Sonata didn’t discuss much of what they were doing to Sunset.
Sunset didn’t mind though, as she was more intent on getting “Silent Night” well before the party. Daily she would find some time to practice. Although the song wasn’t that hard to get, she was trying to capture more the mood which led her to choose it in the first place. She knew it wouldn’t be easy to get that mood, and so far she couldn’t seem to get that mood the way she felt it that night as she was going home.
That night she finished rehearsing. She sat down, trying to figure out what she was missing. She already had the song perfectly. Somehow though what she wanted was to get that mood, that feeling of both joy and sadness upon listening to it. So far she was going nowhere with her effort.
Well, I’ve done all I can, she thought as she sat on the chair, her head bowed as she continued to find out what was the missing element to it. She tried to take her mind of it by going to the gym at the back, but after a few reps doing bench presses she still couldn’t take her mind of it. She just lay on the bench after replacing the barbell on the rack. She knew that somehow she had to get it solved.
No use thinking too much about it, she finally decided as she got up from the bench, careful to slide away from the bar before getting up. She changed from her workout clothes to one that she usually wore, which was a comfortable shirt and pants along with her ever-present leather jacket. She first wanted to text Sonata about her going out, but decided to be more personal and wrote a quick note which she then stuck on the fridge.
It was a cool afternoon when she went out. As it was winter, it was colder than usual, though her leather jacket kept her warm enough as she walked. During such times she put the think lining of the jacket. More often though the lining was off it, but since it was much colder she knew better than to risk leaving home without it on. She walked faster than usual, in part so as to keep herself warm by exerting more effort. She would probably be more tired by the time she got to the church, but it was a better trade-off than having to freeze if she walked slowly.
Because she walked much faster than usual, she arrived at the church quickly. She stood still for a moment, composing herself while at the same time catching her breath. It was a Friday so she knew there wasn’t anyone in the church, though she also wondered whether Fr. Rodian would at least be there. She then quietly went in.
At the right side of the church there was a door which was smaller than the main door of the church. The door led towards the rectory where Fr. Rodian stays. She walked on the path which linked the rectory to the church. The path went on to the side of the rectory, ending on the street that just adjacent to the church. Sunset then walked a few steps until she was squarely in front of the rectory.
She wasn’t sure just yet whether she would ring the bell, but after a few seconds of hesitation she went ahead and rang it. After about 3 minutes the door opened and there Fr. Rodian stood in front of her, wearing his black rassa. He smiled when he saw her.
“Well, I am certainly not expecting you today,” he said as he let her in. It was the first time that Sunset had entered the rectory, and she noticed that the place looked more like an office than a house.
“I use the ground floor mainly as the church’s office,” Fr. Rodian explained as she looked around. She wanted to look more but then she realized that she couldn’t take too much Fr. Rodian’s time, so she finally fixed her attention to the priest.
“Father,” she said, at first a bit hesitant, “I have a song that has been in my head ever since I heard it…” She then told about the song and how she heard it, as well as what moved her to choose it. Fr. Rodian nodded silently as she told her story. After she finished, he motioned her to a chair in front of an office table. He took another chair and set it just a bit in front of her.
“The song that you heard is really beautiful,” he began, “though it is not exactly an Orthodox chant. However, even if it’s not so, there is much that we can learn by listening to it.” She nodded as she listened to him.
“Before anything else, we will have to begin what Christmas is all about before we can understand the song,” he continued, “and from there we can then find what you have been looking for in the song.” He then began the story of how Christmas was, beginning with that night that is now called the Nativity. As he explained, Sunset listened attentively. She realized that if she would be able to sing the song well, then she would have to know what it first meant and what it would also mean to her.
It was dark by the time Fr. Rodian finished most of his explanation. Throughout most of that time Sunset just listened quietly, though every now and then she asked a question to clarify some things, to which the priest answered her questions in a way that could be understood.
“I hope I was able to make it more clearer,” Fr. Rodian said after they have finished much of the talk. By then he offered her coffee so as to keep her warm, though she felt warm enough with a heater inside the office.
“It’s as clear as I could make it,” Sunset replied. “What I’m thinking more is how to get that feeling when I first heard it.”
“You will get it soon enough,” Fr. Rodian assured her. “But just give it time, since it takes time for these things to really sink in.”
“I think it will be sometime before I get all of it,” Sunset admitted.
“There is no hurry,” Fr. Rodian said. “It will come when the time is right.” Sunset then said farewell and began her trek back to home. As it was night, it was much colder than when she left home and even with her quick pace she still felt cold. As what she often did while walking home, she thought of what she talked about with Fr. Rodian. She knew that she will have to get what the song meant to her somehow. Slowly she realized that she’s getting there.
By the time she got home she was tired, though it still took some time for her to get to sleep while she thought of her conversation with Fr. Rodian. She could still recall what he said, in that sooner or later she will discover for herself what the song really means to her. With that last thought in her mind, she finally curled up in bed and fell asleep.
A few days later, preparations for the Canterlot High’s Christmas party were all set. Pinkie smiled as she looked at the gym, proud of what she and Sonata had done. All the time they worked on it, the gym remained closed from the other students apart from those who volunteered to help them. Not even the Rainbooms knew what was being done. Neither Pinkie nor Sonata talked much about it. Even now, after all of it was finished, they still largely didn’t talk about it. They have also asked those who helped out not to reveal anything.
Not that the Rainbooms were inclined to ask. They had decided not to pry into whatever Pinkie was doing. All they knew was that, knowing her, it would be something to remember.
“I am sure the students would be glad to see what you did,” Vice-Principal Luna said as they surveyed the gym. She made the final inspection together with Pinkie and Sonata to make sure that everything had been done well. What she saw impressed her, and she nodded with approval at what the gym looked like.
“I have to say that you have outdone yourself this time,” Luna continued. Pinkie clasped her hands with delight. One thing that really made her glad was to see all her hard work be appreciated, and she was happy that things had turned out well so far.
“Principal Celestia will be much glad when she sees this,” Luna informed her.
“I’m really glad that you like it,” Pinkie beamed happily. “But I really couldn’t have done it without Sonata’s help.” She motioned towards Sonata then.
“You have proven yourself to be a good asset to our school,” Luna remarked towards Sonata. “I can see that you have changed so much since the first time you were here.” Sonata looked embarrassed, but still managed to smile at the compliment.
“Thanks,” Sonata simply said. “I hope that I can help out more.”
“I am sure there will be more opportunities for you,” Luna replied.
“So we could show them the gym?” Pinkie asked, but Vice-Principal Luna shook her head.
“I don’t think we should just yet,” she said. “I think it would be better that they see it on the day itself,” she decided then. “It would be good to have the gym closed until the party. Anyway with only a few days to go, I think the students can wait. And there won’t be any sports activity until January, so I think it would be best to keep things secret until then.” Pinkie and Sonata agreed with her.
“I must be off then to tell Principal Celestia about that everything is ready,” Luna said after a brief silence. She then walked out of the gym. The two were left alone, still admiring what they’ve done.
“It’s great!” Sonata said, both with relief and with joy that they had finished everything. She was also happy that Vice-Principal Luna complimented her, which meant so much. Pinkie nodded happily.
“I can’t wait for it, too!” she said to Sonata. They checked if everything had been done right. Even if all had been finished, Pinkie wanted to make sure it was all as perfect as it could ever get. Satisfied at last, both of them then went out and locked the gym to make sure no one would wander in. They then headed for their classes. As Principal Celestia had given them permission to miss some classes, they didn’t worry that their teachers would be looking for them.
Friday didn’t come too soon for Canterlot High, as the students were by then excited for that day. The whole day there wouldn’t be any class as the whole school would be in the gym to hold the Christmas party. For Sunset the day started early. She had to look for clothes that would look good for that occasion. She knew it had to be special. She opened her closet to look at what she had. She was trying to decide on a blue dress, but figured it was too formal. She certainly didn’t want to look too casual, but being too formal clearly would make her stand out too much as well.
She decided on a nice pair of black pants and then a shiny, silver sleeveless top. She got a special leather jacket that she saved for only special occasions. It was more formal than her regular jacket, but not too formal as well. She put on a pair of boots that she had decided to only wear on special occasions as well. She checked her look on the mirror.
Though she thought her look to be good, what really bothered her was her song. She had the song memorized and even had the melody down well, but then she thought she still couldn’t get that feeling just yet. She knew that she was close, but at the same time it wasn’t quite there. She checked her attire once again to see if everything was perfect. After last preparations she checked on Sonata and saw that she was ready as well.
“Ready?” Sunset asked as she peeked through Sonata’s room. Sonata was wearing a nice long-sleeved jacket and black pants. Like Sunset she also had boots on. She was in front of the mirror fixing her hair when Sunset looked in.
“Got my hair done,” Sonata called out to her. “How do I look?” she then asked as after finishing and turning around to show Sunset.
“You look great,” Sunset said, noting with approval what she wore. Sonata smiled, turning around so Sunset can see all of what she wore.
“I love this,” Sonata said. She bought all of her clothes for the party last weekend, so they were brand new. She turned around again, in part to see if it would be very comfortable. “I think I’ll love wearing this often.” Sunset nodded.
“I think we should get going then,” she finally said. Sonata got a small bag and then soon enough they were on their way to school. They had decided to go early, since if they went later the gym would be full. Also Pinkie had asked the Rainbooms to be early so she can show them what she and Sonata had been working before everyone else. When they arrived at school they saw Pinkie waiting for them just outside the steps. She waved when she saw them.
“I’m glad you could be early!” she said as she hugged them both.
“So are the others coming early as well?” Sunset asked as they sat on the steps. Pinkie nodded.
“They all confirmed that they’d be here soon,” she said to them. They chatted a bit while waiting for the others. The first one to come up was Applejack. She was wearing a stylish hat in place of her regular one she always wore. She had a long-sleeved shirt and a new pair of jeans as well as a new pair of rubber shoes. She looked simple yet elegant.
“Looks like y’all are early,” she said to them as she came near.
“Well, I did say for everyone to be early,” Pinkie replied. At that point Rainbow Dash also arrived. Just like Applejack, she didn’t wear anything too fancy, with a comfortable long-sleeved sports jacket and blue pants. Like Applejack she also wore rubber shoes.
“I can’t wait to see the gym!” she said to them.
“We all can’t,” Sunset said. “I think it will look nice since Pinkie and Sonata worked on it.”
“Of course it is nice,” Rainbow Dash agreed as she sat down with them. “But it’s great we’d be the first ones to see it.” Both Rarity and Fluttershy came last. Rarity was her stylish self, wearing a nice and elegant skirt with frilly dress to match it. Flutershy was more subdued in contrast to her. She wore a simple pink skirt and white long-sleeved dress.
“So darlings, are we going in?” Rarity asked them.
“I think it’s okay to go in now,” Pinkie said as she peered into the hallway.
“Maybe we should go in then,” Fluttershy suggested. All of them agreed to it, and they got up to walk to the gym. The school itself had been decorated for the season. Though Pinkie wasn’t able to help in decorating the whole school, she did suggest what décor should be placed. The place looked festive, and Pinkie smiled as she looked at it.
“It’s great that they did all I told them!” she observed happily.
“Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna must have been busy since last night,” Sunset said. The décor were not there when they left school yesterday, though it was announced yesterday also that people could go home early so as to prepare for the party. She now thought that it was also to give time for Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna, and perhaps even the teachers, time to prepare the school.
“All of this took time to prepare,” said Sonata.
“It sure did,” Applejack agreed with her. They then neared the gym. Pinkie carried a spare key given to her by Vice-Principal Luna yesterday so she could show the Rainbooms her work. After opening the door she turned on the lights, and all of them gasped at how well the gym looked. For Pinkie it was one thing viewing it with Vice-Principal Luna; it was another having to see it with her friends. She could see their admiration at her and Sonata’s work. She knew all their hard work paid off just by the reactions on their faces.
“Beautiful darling!” Rarity said, looking around. As much of a perfectionist as she was, she couldn’t help but be amazed at how good Pinkie and Sonata’s work were for the party. Sunset was also amazed, though her mind then wandered to the song that she would sing later. She could see Pinkie’s work had paid off. Now she wondered if her own work would pay off as well.
“Don’t worry, it will work out well,” Pinkie said, sliding up next to her. Sunset looked at her in surprise, wondering how Pinkie somehow can sense things in some way.
“I don’t…” Sunset began, but Pinkie just winked and moved up to the other side of the gym before she could add anything more. Sunset wondered for a moment, but then she let that off her mind as she concentrated back to the song. She only had a few more hours before she would sing it. Pinkie had emailed her two days ago about the Christmas party program, so she knew when she would come up and sing it. For the moment she stayed with the group, though she planned to practice a bit more alone before she’s scheduled to sing.
After a few minutes more people started to come in. The Rainbooms found a table near the stage and sat there together. A steady chatter grew louder as more people came in. Many had admired the Christmas arrangements that Pinkie and Sonata made. Pinkie and Sonata enjoyed the attention, Sunset noted. She was happy that her friends had been successful with what they did though the party hasn’t started yet.
Soon the teachers arrived as well, some of them mingling with the students. Vinyl Scratch wandered to the Rainbooms’ table to talk with Pinkie. Sunset saw Sonata and Aria together. Though she could see Sonata had changed so much, she also noticed that Aria had also somehow changed. She could see her now laughing merrily and very much different than she was under Adagio. Crescenda soon joined them. The three had fitted themselves well in Canterlot High. For a moment Sunset wondered about Adagio, but then decided she has more time musing about her after the party.
Presently Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna came in. The talk subsided a bit, but not too much. Some of the students looked at them though most simply continued with their conversations. Both of them had a table for the faculty and staff near the stage. For a few minutes they talked with the teachers seated with them before Vice-Principal Luna went over to where the Rainbooms were.
“Principal Celestia wants to speak to you,” she said to Pinkie and Sonata. Both of them got up and followed her. While they went over to Principal Celestia, Sunset took that opportunity to go over the song. It wasn’t really hard for her to get it. She was really able to get the song in less than a day. She still worried about getting the song’s feeling as she felt it was key to the whole song. She did wonder what Pinkie meant earlier, which strangely comforted her, knowing that Pinkie can be intuitive to such things. She saw the two of them return to their table, and Vice-Principal Luna got up and walked towards the stage. Sunset knew that the program was about to start.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is a time for us to be merry and have fun!” Vice-Principal Luna opened the party with great applause and shouts from the crowd. “All through the year we have worked hard. Now it is time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the day! Before we begin I would like to introduce to you two of the hardest working students we’ve ever had—Pinkie Pie and Sonata Dusk! They have both worked hard to make this party a reality!”
Vice-Principal Luna motioned to them, and Applejack nudged both of them to stand up. When both of them stood up the crowd looked and clapped at their direction. Sunset could see that both of them were enjoying the attention. For Sonata most especially it was a time of affirmation and of finally belonging to Canterlot High.
She thought then of sneaking out shortly after the introductions. Vice-Principal Luna’s speech wasn’t that long, and after a few more words she introduced Principal Celestia. Sunset would have liked to stay then but figured it was the best time to sneak out and get a few minutes of practice. She wasn’t scheduled to be on until halfway through the party, and that would still be a good few hours away. As Principal Celestia made her way up the stage she quietly left. The gym was dimly lit while a spotlight was focused on Vice-Principal Luna and Principal Celestia, so none of the Rainbooms noticed her leaving.
She made her way to the Music Room. Though she hasn’t told any of the Rainbooms where she went, they will most likely have an idea where to look for if ever they need her. She always carried a spare key of the room, given to her by Principal Celestia. The Principal has designated the Rainbooms to be the caretakers of the Music Room, and Sunset had been chosen as the one who would carry the spare key for the room. The main key still remained with Principal Celestia while another key was in the hands of the school’s Music Department.
For a few minutes she just sat still on the piano seat after she had entered the room. She kept the light dim so as to get more of a mood to it. She had memorized “Silent Night” very much though now, in the Music Room, she wondered if she would be able to get its feeling as well. After a few minutes of being quiet she gradually let the song sink in. She closed her eyes to feel its mood and rhythm. After a few more minutes of it she felt she was ready. She launched on the first words, softly at first. For the first time since she heard it, she could somehow feel the difference. She just pushed that at the back of her mind for now, letting the song flow by itself.
After singing through the song she opened her eyes. Maybe it was because of the room’s atmosphere, which was quiet and dimly lit. Or perhaps it was because she was alone and it was quiet. But she could feel it made some difference. At the back of her mind she could still remember her talk with Fr. Rodian. She wondered if that somehow also made a difference. Or perhaps, she concluded, it was the combination of all those things that had made the song more meaningful now. All she was sure of was that she seemed to have found what she had been looking for.
Now I wonder if it will be the same in the gym later, she thought after a few minutes. She sang the song once again. She sang it as slowly as how she heard it then. After singing, she noted how she sang it. She felt satisfied with it now, unlike even as late as yesterday when she practiced at home. She thought of staying inside the Music Room up until near the time she would sing, but decided against it. She then got up and after locking the room, went back to the gym.
When she got back she saw Trixie and her band setting up on stage. People were either in their groups or else going for the food, which were strategically placed in some areas of the gym for easy access. Lines were forming on the food areas though most don’t seem to be hungry yet, Sunset thought. She went back to the Rainbooms’ table. All of them were talking and looked at her when she arrived.
“So, where have you been?” Applejack asked her.
“Practiced some more in the Music Room,” she simply said.
“So how was it, darling? You won’t be on until later,” Rarity said to her.
“I think I might have found what I was looking for a few days back,” she said.
“I knew you’d do it,” Pinkie said happily. Sunset just shook her head. She still wondered how Pinkie could somehow know such things. She thought that one day she would try to find out what’s her secret to such things, though she knew that now wasn’t the right time to do so.
“So, you think their band will be good?” Rainbow Dash hissed quietly, just enough for them to hear it. With all the noise though Sunset thought that it probably wasn’t necessary, though it might be as well just in case others were listening in.
“I think they’re good enough,” Sunset said with a shrug. Trixie hasn’t caused much trouble in the recent months, so she really wasn’t that much concerned about it personally. She thought that maybe Trixie had made peace with the people around her and had settled in. Which was a good thing, thought Sunset. Even though Trixie might have been less annoying in campus, on stage she was still her flamboyant self.
If anyone can outmatch Rarity for being flamboyant, it would be Trixie, Sunset thought as Trixie shouted out loud and then her band began to rip through their first song. The Rainbooms listened to them. Even Rainbow Dash had to agree that they had improved much. Trixie was also entertaining on stage. While they were listening Applejack went over to Rainbow Dash.
“Aren’t we going to play later?” They looked at Pinkie but she shook her head.
“I thought we’d let the others do their thing,” she said to the group.
“Well, we do need to give the others a chance,” Fluttershy reasoned out.
“Yeah, I suppose so,” Rainbow Dash agreed reluctantly. She had wanted for them to go up onstage at this time, but realized that they will just had to enjoy the party from the sidelines. Only Sunset would be going up later.
“So, anyone hungry yet?” Applejack asked them while Trixie and her band came up with their second song.
“How long will their set be?” Rainbow Dash asked Pinkie.
“Only one more song to go,” Pinkie said, looking at the program.
“Don’t you even read those?” Applejack smirked as she took a look at the program.
“I really just came here to enjoy,” Rainbow Dash said.
“Well, we should go and fall in line if we don’t want to run out of food,” Rarity said, looking over at where the food were.
“We really should go there now,” Sonata agreed. She was looking forward to the food. She personally requested for tacos to be included in the menu, and Pinkie knew she liked tacos as well.
“All right, let’s go and grab our food,” Sunset said. All of them got up and fell in line with the other students. It didn’t took them long to reach the food table, which was crammed with different selections. Sonata quickly searched for tacos and found some. Sunset wasn’t too selective as she just placed whatever fancied her. She did take a taco since it has somewhat become a favorite of her, thanks to Sonata always buying them whenever they go out to get their groceries.
After they got their food they headed back to their table just as Trixie was winding down their set. Many people appreciated their effort as she and her band mates took their bow and then took their instruments before leaving the stage. While the Rainbooms were seating themselves Aria came over to them.
“Wow, they have improved,” she said to them, referring to Trixie.
“Yeah, I thought that they were already good then, but they’re even better now,” Sunset admitted.
“Looks like you’ll have much competition at the next Battle of the Bands,” observed Aria.
“No way they’ll win against us,” Rainbow Dash said confidently.
“I don’t know Dashie,” Applejack said. “They were good today, so we’d better start practicing hard like them.”
“So, you ready for later?” Aria said to Sunset, turning to her.
“I think I’ve got the song covered,” Sunset said, smiling to her.
“You’ll do well,” Aria said to her encouragingly.
“Well, she’s really good,” Sonata said with a wide grin.
“So take that as a vote of confidence from the Dazzlings then,” Aria added to what Sonata just said.
“It’s great that your group is behind us now,” Sunset said gratefully.
“It’s the least we can do for what we’ve done,” Aria said. “And thanks also for taking in Sonata as part of your group, as well as letting her live with you,” she added.
“It’s just our way of letting you know that there’s no hard feelings,” Rainbow Dash joined in.
“Well, we’ll be supporting you later,” Aria said as she went back to their table. They saw Crescenda wave at them, and they waved back to her. Sunset felt relieved with that much support for her. She knew that she would need all the support that she could get from them later, though even then she also knew that she could always count on her friends to be behind her.
The party continued on with individuals or groups performing onstage to keep the crowd entertained. Pinkie had planned the Christmas party to be a whole day affair, so pretty much for the whole day there wouldn’t be any classes. Some thought the party to be too long though most didn’t mind it, since after it would be an almost month-long vacation before school goes back in January after the holidays. As each performer went up the stage, Sunset knew that she would soon be the next one up. She had grown silent as her performance drew nearer. Her friends noticed that but they didn’t dare disturb her, realizing that she might be preparing for that moment.
For Sunset, it wasn’t her first time to be on stage, as she had been in the same situations before. However now it was different, as she would be singing something that was unfamiliar to her yet at the same time had become close to her as well. From the time she heard it she realized that the song was speaking to her, but she couldn’t find out how to convey that to people. Now though she thought she had just found that.
“Are you ready?” Pinkie asked her, breaking her introspection. She looked to see all of the Rainbooms looking at her. For a moment she was flustered, but then realized that her time to sing was coming up soon.
“Yeah, I am ready,” she said to them. A little bit more seriously she nodded at them to indicate she was ready. She was by then calm, though still a little bit nervous. The Rainbooms were all looking at her. Even Aria and Crescenda had their eyes on her. She could see that all of them were encouraging her, and that gave her much confidence. She stood up and bravely went to the stage.
When she was at the center of the stage the spotlight shone on her. For a moment she felt hot as she remembered that spotlights can be hot even when they’re quite far. She put that out of her mind, put all other distractions aside, and just concentrated on the song. She decided to do it accapella, without any musical accompaniment. With a small smile on her lips, she began to sing.
“Silent night, holy night…” As she sang, she could feel the words flow from her. It was a gentle, moving sound. It wasn’t something like she had sang before. Somehow as she sang it now, there was a power that was strong yet gentle at the same time. She let those thoughts and feelings into the song.
The crowd became silent when she began to sing. No one made a sound as she continued to sing, or if ever there was it was just hushed whispers. Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna just sat in their seats, entranced.
“I never heard something so moving…” Principal Celestia said in a whisper, though audible enough for her sister to hear.\
“Yes, this is a touching rendition,” Vice-Principal Luna agreed.
It seemed like a long time for her, yet she found herself at the end of the song. As the last words came out, she listened. It was quiet. Her mind was racing then. She was thinking if she had somehow sang it wrong. But suddenly there was a thunderous clap coming from many hands. Even with the spotlight and the dimly lit gym she could make out people who were clapping and cheering.
For a moment she stood there, then bowed and made her way back to the Rainbooms. Pinkie Pie ran over to her and hugged her.
“I knew you could do it!” Pinkie exclaimed as she hugged her.
“Well, it was thanks to you and everyone else,” Sunset said, hugging her back. In her mind though there was something else that made her feel that way, and she would need to talk about it later on. For now though she went over to her friends, who all congratulated her. As they sat down, Vice-Principal Luna approached them.
“Sunset Shimmer,” she said, “Principal Celestia would like to speak with you.” The group looked at her. She stood up and followed Vice-Principal Luna.
“Sunset!” Principal Celestia said to her cheerfully. “That was a great performance there. One of the most moving ones I have ever heard!”
Sunset blushed a little, but then still she managed to stay composed. Principal Celestia went on then.
“I am wondering if you could lead the students later to sing it again, before we close the party and start vacation.” Sunset’s eyes widened. She was delighted to hear that! She nearly stammered, but then recovered and just remained calm.
“I would be happy to lead the school then,” she said simply. She thanked them both and returned to the Rainbooms, a big smile on her face. She certainly wasn’t expecting that request coming from the Principal. She thought her performance ended then and there, but now she would go up the stage later to lead everyone in singing the song. The group noticed her big smile and her shining eyes when she got near them.
“Looks like you have some good news there,” Applejack observed.
“Indeed I have,” she said and then told them what Principal Celestia requested her.
“That is so nice darling!” Rarity said after she had finished her narrative.
“I am so glad they liked it,” Fluttershy said in her quiet voice.
“I am so happy for you!” declared Sonata joyfully. Sunset was just as glad. She felt much relaxed now. She also felt at peace somehow. She had come to terms with the song and had become comfortable with it though it wasn’t just that which she felt then. Her performance was also at the critical point of the party, right in the middle of the program itself. She then thought if that somehow meant something.
It was then late afternoon when the party drew to a close. Before it all ended, Principal Celestia went onstage to address the students and faculty.
“First of all, I would like to thank all of you for being here and for sharing with us a fun and memorable Christmas party,” she said solemnly. The students all clapped.
“Before we go and enjoy our vacation,” she continued, “I would like to mention something special that I heard today. Earlier Sunset Shimmer sang us a beautiful rendition of ‘Silent Night.’ I would like her then to lead all of us to sing in before we go out and leave for the holidays.” She then motioned for Sunset to come up on stage. Again, Sunset was on stage and facing the crowd. Unlike before when she felt a bit uncertain, now she felt more relaxed and confident. Smiling, she then led them to sing the song.
The sound of many voices drifted from the gym. It was, in all, a magical moment. It was something that Sunset had not felt, not even in Equestria. With that moment was much peace, and she wished then that it could go on and on, and that it would always be that way.
Much later, after the party, Sunset was on her way to Annunciation Orthodox Church. It was late afternoon, almost evening, but she somehow had to make that trip to Fr. Rodian. She wanted to tell him what had happened. She mostly wanted to tell him what she felt while singing the song, and that somehow something had finally fell into place for her. Her trip then had purpose.
Perhaps Fr. Rodian is right, she thought as she made her way to the church. Maybe it is time. She knew that it was a journey that would be different for her. She might had already taken the first step and now it might be time for her to see if it would lead to something more for her. She wasn’t entirely sure yet, but she just knew then that it was something she had wanted to do all along.