Loyal Knight

by MrAlterad

Rating: everyone
Tags: Shining Armor, Princess Celestia, Slice of Life, Sunset Shimmer, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Romance
Length: 18200

Sunset Shimmer wants to change, being a better pony towards her friends. Becoming a hero wasn't part of the plan...

Sunset finally has time alone with Shining Armor. Naturally, she's too distracted to take advantage of that, thanks to what everypony's been saying.
She's the one that saved the princesses. The one that saved Equestria. 'Sunset Shimmer the Hero'.
But Sunset, she just wants to change. She wants to become a better friend, and be closer to the ponies important in her life.
So just how is she supposed to do that, if those very same ponies want her to be the hero everypony believes her to be?

Thanks to Cloureed again for the cover!
Set in the Trio-verse.

Published 2015-12-23 02:00:02 UTC
Last updated 2016-01-15 21:30:31 UTC

1. Present News

“Hey, Sunset...” Spike began, giving the sleeping mare a gentle push, getting a groan of annoyance from her. “Come on Sunset, it's Hearth's Warming Eve!” the young dragon let out excitedly.

Just ten more minutes, Sunset thought, failing to say it out loud as she drew the blanket over her head. Spike let out a small sigh, which was followed by another, coming from somepony else.

“If you want to get her up...” Trixie began in a sagely tone. Sunset then flinched, hugging herself from the cold as the blanket was whisked away, “Then you need to steal her shield~!”

“Give it back...” Sunset mumbled, brushing her messy mane aside as she opened her eyes, being greeted with a small headache.

“Trixie thinks not. It's past nine, and it's not like you to be—“

“It's what!?” Sunset asked, her eyes widening as she sat up. She then toppled over, feeling lightheaded as her horn made its complaints known.

“Still not in top shape?” Trixie asked with concern as she approached Sunset's side, getting a small groan from Sunset as Trixie helped her out of bed.

“Can't believe I slept in,” Sunset said, blinking as her eyes took in the daylight pouring through the window. The light had a pinkish tint to it, which Sunset failed to notice.

“Can't say Trixie blames you, after everything that happened. Even Trixie's horn is still feeling a little temperamental,” she admitted, before adopting a smug smile, “Though it's rare to be awake before you. Trixie planned to paint your hooves black to celebrate the achievement, buuut she chose not to.”

“I'm not in the mood for pranks, Trixie-” Sunset replied, blinking slowly when she noticed her hooves were painted red and green instead, making them match the holiday decorations in her home. Trixie stuck her tongue out as Sunset slowly looked at her. Trixie's horn then glowed briefly, returning Sunset's hooves to their normal, less festive color.

“Get yourself some breakfast,” Trixie said as she began to trot out of the bedroom, “there's a lot of stuff to talk about.”

“Such as?” Sunset asked.

“This!” Spike replied, showing Sunset a newspaper, The Canterlot Come-about. Sunset eyed the front article Spike eagerly indicated, seeing that her exploits against Shadow Flare made the cover. She then rolled her eyes, taking the paper from her assistant as she left her room, grabbing a robe on the way out as the others followed.

“'Disciple of the Moon, Sunset Shimmer, has distinguished herself by bringing back the night,'” Sunset read in a monotone voice, “'That's right everypony! When the Sun went into overdrive on the solstice, Canterlot's resident magical powerhouse was on the case!'”

Sunset's eyes narrowed as she read, reaching the article's end by the time she had breakfast ready before her. “What the hay is this!?” she let out, “There's barely a mention of any of you guys!”

“Really?” Trixie replied coyly, “Trixie hadn't noticed.” Sunset raised an eyebrow at her, prompting Trixie to let out a haughty laugh, “The Great and Powerful Trixie does not mind! She has plenty of fans across Equestria who know of her astounding deeds!” she said expressively, before tapping Sunset on the nose, “That's why it's fine if her good old friend gets the spotlight. This one time, at least,” she added, almost as an afterthought.

“Trixie, it's not fine. We did it together. We saved Equestria. Not me! Us! I mean, I even ended up being captured! I needed to be rescued—“

“Trixie doesn't care,” she said, getting close to Sunset with a resolute look in her eyes.

“W-What?” Sunset asked, giving Trixie a small glare that had little effect on the blue mare.

“Trixie knows we did it together. She was there after all. And Twilight knows too, right Spike?”

“Right!”

“But you guys deserve credit too,” Sunset insisted, prompting a sigh from Trixie.

“'Credit this, responsibility that,'” she said, mimicking Sunset as she did. “Trixie believes you think too much about this stuff,” she added in a troubled tone, getting a flat look from Sunset.

“And you don't think enough,” she replied, making Trixie let out a small laugh. Sunset then blinked when she realized somepony was missing. “Wait, where's Twilight?”

“She now notices!” Trixie replied with a hint of annoyance, “Twilight went back to Ponyville, and Trixie will be doing the same too,” she added, getting a confused look from Sunset, “You slept through it,” she said as she pulled out a rolled letter with Luna's seal on it. “Since the Winter Solstice at Ponyville was a bust, Luna's decided to host the Eve's feast there instead.”

“Oh...” Sunset replied, “And I guess your carriage is still in Ponyville too.”

“Trixie hasn't forgotten,” she affirmed as Sunset's attention shifted back to the newspaper.

“Try this one!” Spike let out, presenting Sunset another newspaper. She then looked past him, seeing a small pile of papers at his side, “I got every issue for today!” He counted his claws as he divvied them out: “Canterlot Come-about, Equestria Times, The Daily Radish, Lunar News, the works! We're in all of them!” he said, his eyes wide in excitement.

“Trixie is particularly fond of this one,” she admitted as she pulled out The Daily Radish, “'Sunset Shimmer: Heroine or Vile Enchantress!?'” Trixie narrated with a smile, getting an unamused look from Sunset, “'With her quickly growing popularity, one must wonder if what occurred on the solstice wasn't staged! Is Sunset trying to win over a legion of the youth in order to take over Equestria!? The answer may surprise you!'”

“Well, at least one of us is having fun,” Sunset said flatly, rubbing her horn softly as she glanced through the papers. She then let out a long groan. “I'm never gonna rid myself of that Disciple of the Moon title now...”

“Everypony's calling you a hero!” Spike stated, before adopting a contemplative look, “So ... does that make me your sidekick?” he then adopted a troubled expression, “Am I Humdrum?”

“No Spike, you're better than that,” Sunset replied, not missing a beat as she rubbed his head, getting a pleasant smile from him. Trixie eyed the exchange for a moment, before letting out a woeful sigh.

“Sunset Shimmer, the heroine. Oh, it's not easy, being popular,” Trixie let out, feigning distress, before giving Sunset a teasing smile. “Speaking of, there's a mob outside your house.”

“...What?” Sunset asked flatly, unsure if her friend was pulling her leg, making Trixie's smile grow.

“There's a lot of ponies that want to see you,” Spike clarified.

“Twilight was shocked to see them,” Trixie pointed out with a small nod, “Not Trixie though.” She then gave Sunset a considering look, “Twilight's kind of happy you're getting the spotlight. Our resident genius wouldn't know what to do with herself if she had that much attention,” Trixie then glanced to the side as she let out a sigh, “Despite Trixie's efforts.”

“...If there's a mob outside, why can't I hear them?” Sunset asked.

“Luna sent a bodyguard to help you get around.” Trixie explained, getting an odd look from Spike. “They're keeping your new fans at the gate.”

“Bodyguard?” Sunset asked incredulously, “Why would I need a bodyguard?”

“Because casting spells is painful for you right now,” Trixie replied curtly, tapping Sunset's horn, getting a small yelp from Sunset as she glared at Trixie.

“Point taken,” she begrudgingly said, “So ... is it anypony I know?” she asked with a hint of hope.

“Nope. Somepony named Flash? Trixie doesn't really know him,” she replied quickly, and confidently. “So, Trixie's going to head out shortly, to Ponyville. Care to join her?” she asked, and Sunset thought on it for a moment, before shaking her head.

“I want to talk to Luna about these,” she said as she indicated the newspapers, “I'll head to the castle first. Spike, can you let Luna know I'm coming?”

“I'm on it!” the dragon replied, quill and parchment quickly in claw.

“Well, since somepony's gonna be a busy-body, Trixie will help,” she said with a nod, “Twilight's offering to host her home for Hearth's Warming, shall Trixie take your presents to Ponyville for you?”

“That's...” Sunset began, about to refuse, before biting her tongue. “Sure. I'd probably forget,” she said sheepishly, getting a mixed smile from Trixie. Sunset's eyes then narrowed as Trixie began levitating the gifts out from under the tree, “But you better not peek.”

“And ruin the surprise?” Trixie scoffed, sounding hurt by the accusation. With that, Sunset finished getting herself ready to tackle the day, while Spike helped Trixie with getting the gifts together.

As they were about to leave, Trixie stopped Sunset, getting an odd look from the orange mare. “You're forgetting something important!” Trixie said with a stern nod, levitating out a golden necklace, a ruby gemstone at its center matching Sunset's cutie-mark, making Sunset's eyes widen.

“How long have you had that?” she asked, a flustered look on her face.

“Since you took it off yesterday morning,” Trixie replied, before raising an eyebrow, “Which you just now apparently noticed.”

“I- I had a lot on my mind, okay,” she replied with a small blush.

“Right, with your pops,” Trixie said, adopting a small smile as she gave the Element of Loyalty back to its owner. “Trixie thinks it'd be best if you kept it close.”

“...Agreed,” Sunset replied, donning the artifact. She then eyed it around her neck for a moment, adopting a small smile, before grabbing her favorite scarf, and hiding the amulet beneath it. “Might as well keep it hidden too,” Sunset stated with a nod, before opening the double doors to her large home, stepping out into the brisk winter air-

Shining Armor turned to her, a small smile on his face as Sunset's world came to a halt. Shining Armor's here!? she thought, almost taking a step back in surprise, before she gave Trixie a cross look. All she got in return was an innocent smile.

“Morning Sunset!” the stallion greeted enthusiastically, before adopting a sheepish look, “I mean, good morning, Ms. Shimmer,” he repeated in a less energetic voice, making Sunset wince before looking to him.

“Just Sunset, Shining Armor. You don't need to be formal because you're 'Captain of the Royal Guard'.”

“As Captain, I'd disagree,” he began coolly, before shaking his head, “But I think I can make an exception for a 'Disciple of the Moon'.”

“A- And please don't ever call me that,” Sunset insisted, getting a small chuckle from Trixie as Shining tried to hide a grin. Wait, is he teasing me? Sunset wondered, blushing lightly in embarrassment, before her attention was directed towards the front of her lot.

There was a group of ponies gathered on the other side of the gate. They clamored in excitement, the snow around them thoroughly trampled. If it wasn't for the magical barrier placed around Sunset's residence by the captain, they'd likely be rushing to talk to her right now. Most of them looked like common folk, but there were also a few reporters as well. Looking to get the 'scoop of the year', no doubt, Sunset thought as she looked from them to Trixie.

“You said it was nopony you knew,” she mumbled under her breath.

“Trixie says a lot of things~” she replied, walking past Sunset and Shining Armor, “Come on Spike, let's help Twilight get things together.” Spike looked from her to Sunset, before nodding in agreement. Trixie then gave Sunset a wistful look, glancing between her and Shining Armor as she started towards the barrier, Spike a step behind her.

“So, Luna told you to look after me?” Sunset asked her guard, using a neutral tone as she followed her friend.

“Told?” he asked with a confused look, “She gave me the day off for some reason. She did suggest I check in on you, make sure that you didn't exert yourself any further,” he added, walking by her side as he looked to her. “You … don't mind, right?” he asked, failing to hide his worry.

“Oh, not at all!” Sunset replied, a little faster than she intended. “Thanks for the barrier,” she added sheepishly.

“It was nothing,” Shining replied, before Trixie cleared her throat.

“If you're in a not-minding-mood,” she began, giving Sunset a teasing smile, “Why not-” She was cut off when Spike let out an unexpected belch, golden flame spewing from his mouth as a letter formed from the ashes.

“Uhh, that's a new color,” Spike said sheepishly as he picked up the letter. “Isn't this Celestia's cutie-mark?” he asked as he presented the letter to Sunset.

“Celestia...” Sunset said in a somber note. She hadn't seen or heard of the princess since she was freed from Shadow Flare, so, so early yesterday morning. “I didn't see her name in the papers,” she pointed out as she looked to the others.

“Oh, she was mentioned,” assured Trixie, taking off her hat, pulling out a rolled parchment inside, “Luna gave a personal address concerning her sister. A copy of this was in every paper.” Sunset eyed Trixie's paper, picking it up, her eyes briefly falling towards Celestia's letter, before she read what Trixie offered.

'My Dearest Subjects, it is with great joy in my heart to tell you, that my older sister, Celestia, has returned to us...'

The letter continued on, giving details about Celestia, her 1000 year banishment, being freed from the darkness that possessed her, and her returned role as the sun's keeper.

Sunset's eyes paused on that. Keeper of the sun. She'd intended to help Luna raise and lower the sun everyday, learning the spell to do so on her own. With Celestia in the picture, that wasn't really needed anymore. Well, I guess helping get her sister back is fine too, she thought with a smile, before returning the address to Trixie.

“Well, don't keep us waiting,” Trixie said impatiently as she eyed Celestia's letter. Sunset nodded, breaking the seal, unrolling the letter to find a fairly brief message, which she read out loud for the others.

“Sunset Shimmer, I hope this letter finds you well. If it's not too much trouble, I wish to speak with you, before tonight's feast. ~Celestia.”

Is it about Shadow Flare? Sunset wondered as Spike let out a disappointed sigh.

“That's it?” he asked, “Well, now I wanna go with you.”

“But, who's gonna help poor Trixie carry all these?” Trixie asked is a sad tone as she indicated all the gifts being carried between the two of them. Trixie then leaned close, whispering something into Spike's ear, which made him briefly glance at Shining Armor, before nodding.

“Well, I suppose you got a point,” Spike said dismissively as he turned to the front gate, where the crowd of ponies were still eyeing them eagerly. “What about them …?”

“Well Sunset,” Trixie began with a mischievous smile, “Your audience awaits!”

“Greeat,” Sunset replied as she rolled her eyes, approaching the barrier, before nodding to Shining, whose horn briefly glowed, popping the pink shell he'd kept cast around her home. Let's dispel this hero nonsense. I have no need of it!

The crowd, which had been leaning on the barrier, collapsed into Sunset's yard when it disappeared, to the ponies' surprise. Sunset had to resist smirking in response, composing herself as a number of them got on their hooves to approach her. Shining Armor put up a smaller shield to keep them from getting too close, taking a confident step forward as he did.

“Sunset Shimmer is still recovering from her battle with Shadow Flare,” he let out in a deep, commanding voice that caught Sunset off guard, and made Trixie raise an eyebrow at him, “Please be respectful of this,” he added, his shield fading away as the ponies considered him.

“Sunset Shimmer,” a sharply dressed mare asked, her horn shining as the words of her competitors for attention became mute, “I'm Scribbly with the Equestrian Times. Let me get right to the point. Many are curious as to what kind of pony you are. You've been a student of Princess Luna for so long, but very few of us in the industry have a grasp of your character. Tell us, what were your motivations for saving Equestria from Eternal Day?” she asked, catching Sunset off guard with the question. The other reporters gave her dirty looks, before looking to Sunset for her reply.

Well, that's a convenient question, Sunset thought, seeing a means to quickly dispel her 'heroism'.

“I did it for Luna. And nopony else,” she replied stalwartly, “I didn't even think about-” She almost bit her tongue when Trixie kicked her flank. Sunset shot the mare a glare, blinking at the considering look Trixie was giving her.

“That's right!” Trixie chimed in, getting the attention of the mob, “She did it to save Princess Luna. She knows, more than anypony else, how dear, how important our princess is to Equestria!” Trixie exclaimed, getting agreeing murmurs from the crowd as the reporters started writing things down.

“Trixie, what are you doing?” Sunset asked in a low whisper.

“Making sure you don't spoil your praise,” she replied, getting a surprised, and confused look from Sunset. “Like Trixie said, Twilight and herself don't mind if you have the spotlight. But, Trixie will be quite cross with you if you go and ruin it.” She then turned back to the reporters, taking the next question as Sunset appraised her.

The four of them were held up by the mob of ponies for several minutes, each of them answering all kinds of questions concerning what happened with Celestia. After the seventh question, Sunset was starting to lose her patience. By the end of the eighth, there wasn't any more to be had.

“Shouldn't you all be somewhere else?” she asked in an accusing tone, getting confused looks from everypony. “It's Hearth's Warming Eve, you should be celebrating, not pestering ponies with odd questions,” she added, getting guilty looks in return. “Can't all this wait for a better time?”

“She's got a good point,” Shining Armor chimed in, “It'd be best if everypony went on home to your loved ones. Sunset Shimmer isn't going to disappear anytime soon, so go enjoy yourselves.” The reporters looked between each other as some ponies began to trickle away.

Some stayed behind to thank Sunset for saving Luna, and Celestia. A few lingered to get Trixie's autograph, which the mare didn't hesitate to indulge. One reporter tried to ask Shining for an interview, to the stallion's surprise. Eventually, Sunset's yard was clear of outsiders, getting a small sigh from the mare.

“I really don't want to have to deal with that everyday,” Sunset said.

“Well, you'll probably have to,” Trixie stated, “So buck up!” she let out, hitting Sunset lightly in the shoulder, “Once your horn's recovered, you'll be teleporting all over the place again. Then, you could ignore them if you want to.” Trixie then raised her head, “But you may want to greet them too. The ones that thanked you, they're the ones that matter. It makes them happy when you acknowledge their gratitude.”

“I'll … keep that in mind,” Sunset said as she eyed the castle in the distance.

“See that you do,” Trixie said with a curt nod, “Come on Spike, let's go help Twilight!”

“Right behind you!” Spike replied, following Trixie as she started to leave.

“See you two later tonight~” Trixie added with a wave, which Sunset returned, before beginning in the opposite direction, towards the castle. Trixie's words followed her as she went, making her frown at nopony in particular.

Trixie doesn't get it, Sunset thought, How am I supposed to stay close to my friends if everypony else is calling me a hero and seeking my attention? She then let out a sigh.

“Is it bothering you?” Shining Armor asked, making Sunset flinch in surprise. “Must be, if you didn't notice I was following you,” he added in a hurt tone, getting a bothered look from her.

“S- Sorry,” she then blinked. “You're coming with me?”

“You don't want me to?” he replied, making her quickly shake her head.

“I'd like that,” she admitted with a small smile, before it melted away. “And yes. It's bothering me. I don't want to be called a hero.”

“You know, there are a lot of heroes that don't like being called that,” he replied sagely.

“This isn't some comic-book story, Shining,” she countered flatly.

“Guess you're right about that. I mean, if it were, you'd have some sort of amazing amulet that granted you mysterious powers,” he said, making her adopt a smile.

“Point made. However, if that's the case, then you're just a poor guard waiting to be smacked down by the bad guy, just to get me riled up and fight harder.”

“Oh gosh,” Shining replied wide-eyed, “You're right! I'm a cliché waiting to happen!”

“Good thing this isn't a comic-book, right?” she asked with a slightly twisted smile.

“R-Right,” Shining replied, glancing to the side, before appraising her. “Still, calling you 'hero' is better than 'Disciple of the Moon', right?”

“...Twilight told you I don't like that name?” she asked, getting a small nod from him. “I suppose you're right,” she added, not sounding convinced as she eyed the snow trodden cobblestone.

“What is it?” he asked as he gave her an odd look. “Why is being called a hero bothering you? The Sunset Shimmer I remember didn't care what other ponies thought of her.”

The Sunset Shimmer he remembered? she thought in surprise, making her look to him for a moment, before she reflected on what happened. She recalled seeing them, memories of envy, born of countless others, directed towards her, and seeing those thoughts play out in her head began to fill her with apprehension.

Before she could start doubting herself, she felt a warmth over her chest, making the chill in the air seem to vanish for a moment. She blinked, placing a hoof to her scarf, feeling the Element of Loyalty hidden beneath, radiating a comforting heat. She adopted a small smile, offering no reply to Shining for several moments, before coming to a stop.

“Tackling Shadow Flare made me realize, that I want to-,” she then shook her head, “No, need to change,” she said, getting an appraising look from him.

“Well, isn't being a hero a step in the right direction?” he asked, making her shake her head.

“It's not the same. I want to change, by my own actions, but that? That's change being placed upon me. It's just like that stupid 'Disciple of the Moon' title. I don't want handouts, I don't want change given to me like that. I want to work for it, just as I do for everything else,” she explained, a fire burning in her eyes, which Shining took note of. “I just ... don't like it. That's why I want to talk to Luna.”

“See what she thinks about that?” he asked, making her shake her head

“No. I mean, her advise would be nice, but I had something different in mind.”

“Such as?”

“Having her make another address to Equestria. Put the record straight.” Sunset replied firmly, getting an odd look from Shining, before he started to laugh. “W-What's so funny?” Sunset asked as she started to blush.

“It's- It's nothing,” he replied happily, “That's just something the Sunset I know would do. 'Everypony else is wrong, and they need to be set straight',” he said, getting a surprised look from her, which only got another long bout of laughter from him.

Sunset had mixed feelings about this. She wanted to glare at him, but there was something hidden in his laugh that made her hesitate. She could feel that he was relieved about something. And though she didn't understand why, sensing that made her smile, making her start to chuckle as well, as they continued towards the castle.

Author's Note

Short story ahead, three chapters long!
I'd like to be an awesome person, and have the story concluded on Christmas, but I'm not an awesome person. Hopefully, it'll be finished shortly after New Years.:twilightsheepish:
Hope you enjoy this addition to the Trioverse, and I hope you don't hate the crack-ship at the center of the story.

2. Yesterday's Shadow

“So, what does your father do for a living?” Shining Armor asked, making Sunset almost slip in the snow, traces of her mirth going up in a puff of snow.

“Wh- Where'd that come from?” she asked as she turned to him, making him take a surprised step back.

“Well, it's been on my mind since I talked to Twiley this morning,” he replied, making Sunset raise an eyebrow.

“I … never told you?” she asked, getting a flat look from him.

“Sunset, for the longest time, I thought you were an orphan. You never talked about your dad.”

“Right...” she replied as her ears fell, getting an alarmed look from Shining.

“I mean, if you don't want to talk about him—“

“I can, it's just … difficult,” she quickly replied, her heart aching in reflection to their reunion yesterday. They walked on for a moment longer, Sunset taking in a deep breath, before looking to Shining. “My father, he studies magic, particularly in restoring old forgotten spells, for the Institute of Magical Preservation. He's really proud of it too.” She then adopted a small smile, “He actually asked if I'd like to check it out sometime...” she added, making Shining appraise her for a moment, before nodding to himself.

“Are you happy?” he asked, making her blink in confusion.

“Huh?”

“That you two got back in touch?”

“It hurt … getting back together,” she admitted, looking away as she did. “Our pride kept us apart for so long. But, he was the one waiting. I-” her eyes started to well up, making her glare at the ground. I'm not gonna cry again. Not in front of Shining, or anypony else, dang it! “I feel … muddled,” and drained. “Happiness is in here somewhere,” she said as she placed a hoof on her chest, “I know it is, but I'm still sorting it out from everything else.”

“...I think I understand,” he replied, before adopting a small smile, “Guess it was a good thing Twiley and Trixie were with you.”

“Yeah, I don't think I could have done it without them,” Sunset said quietly, a smile on her face.

“Are you going to invite him?” he asked in an oddly curious tone, getting a considering look from her.

“You mean for the feast?” she inquired, getting a short nod. “I … don't think I will. We've already lined up tomorrow evening together, along with some distant relatives I haven't seen since...” she let her sentence peter off before letting out a sigh.

“Sounds like tomorrow's a big day,” he said, getting an unamused look from her.

“It's Hearth's Warming—“

“And this time, you're spending it with family,” he added, giving her a smile that warmed her cheeks.

“Yeah, with family...”

Following that, they continued their trek to the castle in silence for several minutes, giving Sunset some time to sort through her feelings, before bringing herself back to level ground, lest she drain herself again. She wasn't fond of the notion of oversleeping two days in a row. And as she got her thoughts in order, something completely obvious decided to come to her attention.

That being the stallion walking at her side.

“S-So,” she began, blushing at her stutter, “Shining, how've you been these last few years?” she asked, getting a troubled look from him.

“It's been all over the place," he admitted, "I'll tell you what, the academy is a lot rougher than anypony feels like admitting,” he said, adding an exasperated sigh. Images of Shining Armor tripping and crashing through an obstacle course came to mind, getting a short chuckle from Sunset.

“I heard boot camp was the worst part,” she said, getting an agreeing nod from him. “Honestly, I'm impressed you made it.”

“Oh ye of little faith,” he replied in a deep voice, “I'll have you know that I made all the others look like foals!”

“Really?” Sunset asked with a raised eyebrow, making Shining's ears drop.

“Okay, not really. It was rough. And I mean really rough,” he then adopted a smug smile, “But I managed,” he replied confidently, getting a small smile from her.

“Clearly,” she replied, tilting her head as she gave him a coy look. “Tell me, how'd you get Captain of the Royal Guard so quickly? How long have you been back?”

“I got out of the academy a little over a week ago, actually.”

“So you were named captain right out the gate?” she asked, failing to hide her impressed tone.

“That's right!” he replied, chest puffed out at hearing her surprise.

“How?”

“How'd you become one of Luna's students?”

“I hatched Spike,” she replied flatly, positive he knew that. Shining's ears fell briefly.

“What I was going for was-” he then shook his head, “You tried your best, right?”

“Right,” she replied, before blinking in realization, “Oh, I get it. You tried your best too. But, is that really enough to nail Captain of the Royal Guard, at your age?”

“Well ... there may be some talent and luck involved in that too,” he replied sheepishly, getting an inquisitive look from her. “I managed to impress Sour Night, the former captain, early on. That's the luck part, as for talent...” his horn then glowed, wrapping the surrounding environment with a small pink shield that molded perfectly to the surroundings. “I've been told that my barrier magic rivals old Prismashield the Dauntless.”

“R-Really?” Sunset asked, wide-eyed, “Then, that means at the very least, you could shield all of Canterlot if you wanted to!” Even I would find that challenging!

“Haven't tried it,” he admitted as his magic winked out, “But with some prep' work, I think I could.”

“And being the big brother of one of Luna's students had nothing to do with it, right?” she asked in a playful tone.

“Hey,” he said defensively, “I'll have you know I kept Twiley in the dark about my application for the post.”

“I was just teasing, Shining,” she said in a cool tone, “I know you wouldn't do something like asking your sister to put in a good word for you,” she added, getting a surprised look from him. A look that made what she said play out through her head, making her blush at the unintended compliment.

“Th-Thanks,” Shining replied sheepishly, before clearing his throat. “I'm still getting familiar with the castle guard, but it's going smoother than I thought it would.”

“Maybe helping at the end against Shadow Flare has something to do that,” she remarked off-hoofedly, eyeing the castle gates as they came into view.

“Probably...” he replied, both falling silent before they reached the castle grounds. Shining then coolly addressed the two guards overseeing the entrance, giving Sunset a moment to appreciate the castle beyond.

The front face of it was scorched, burnt marks reaching out from the balcony of the old room for Luna's former students. The space itself was draped over by loose cloth, and materials were resting on the loft, waiting to be put to use once the holidays were past. There was a crater in the courtyard, filled in by snow, fire having licked the surrounding statues and bushes.

“-And our good Ms. Shimmer here seemed concerned about you,” one of the guards pointed out, making Sunset's ears perk up. Her body felt rigid as she felt her coat start to go from orange to red. Slowly turning her head, she looked to the guard she'd addressed back when the castle was under Shadow Flare's control, a devilish smile on his face.

“R-Really?” Shining Armor asked, getting a nod from the guard, who was easily older than Sunset and Shining combined.

“That's right Captain! In fact, she looked quite bothered when I told her you were-” Sunset gave him a glare; a pleading, threatening glare. The old stallion was unaffected. “-summoned by our newest princess.”

“I was worried about a good friend, alright!” Sunset let out, getting a small chuckle from the stallion, making Shining clear his throat, his coat starting to match Sunset's.

“That's all, carry on,” Shining said in an commanding voice, making the guards stand at attention, giving him a salute as he briskly trotted onto the castle grounds, Sunset a pace behind him.

“So ... you were worried about me?” Shining asked, breaking the awkward silence that fell over them, making Sunset eyed the snow for a moment before looking at him

“Is that surprising?” she asked, “I didn't know your shield magic was so strong, so I thought you'd been sent to the moon like the Shadowbolts.”

“So, you were worried about me,” he repeated, a bright smile on his face, as if it were the best news he'd heard all year.

“I- That is-” Sunset let out, before biting her tongue. Oh come on Sunset, just spit it out and get it over with! “Yes. I was worried about you... Were you worried too?” she asked, looking to him from the corner of her eye.

“A little,” he said, sounding like he wasn't bothered in the least, making her ears fall, which he noticed. “I mean- Yes, but not a lot,” he quickly emphasized, getting on odd look from her, “When everything went down, Princess Luna seemed confident that everything would be alright. Seeing her faith in the three of you was inspiring. I understood where she was coming from.” He then nodded to himself, “I had a good feeling you'd be able to manage Shadow Flare,” he then gave her a small smile, “But that didn't stop me from running when I heard the commotion.”

They both then paused, reaching the scorched stairs to the castle, where the 'battle' ended. Sunset's eyes drifted towards the burnt balcony, before looking to the spot Shadow Flare stood when she released Celestia. Despite the wintry chill in the air, she could feel the heat from that battle, and the sad smile on Flare's face as she resigned herself to her fate.

“That was what, the seventh time the courtyard's been destroyed?” Shining asked, pulling Sunset from her recollection as she winced at the number, “Since you three became Luna's students, that is.”

“I don't really keep count,” Sunset replied, certain this was actually the ninth time. “Shouldn't take much effort to fix. If Trixie and Twilight were here, we could get it done very quickly.”

“I can picture that,” he said, pulling his eyes from the mess as he turned to the castle. “Do you want to talk to Celestia first?” he asked, getting a considering look from Sunset, before she nodded.

“Yes. I'm curious to know what she wants to talk about,” ...And I have questions, she thought, glancing to the side, before turning towards the castle. “Is she with Luna?”

“Pretty close. She's staying in her own room,” he explained, the way he said it getting a curious look from Sunset.

“Celestia has a room? As in, not a guest's room, but a personal room?”

“Yep. Princess Luna had one prepared a long time ago.”

“Huh. Luna really was counting on that prophecy...” Sunset said, frowning at the idea, before heading into the castle.

“Prophecy?”

“Twilight has a book Luna gave us, full of poems that appear prophetic,” she explained, letting out a small sigh. “I might just give Luna a piece of my mind concerning that.”

“Since she counted on all of you because of an old book?” he asked, getting a nod from her, “Okay. Just keep in mind, as Captain of the Royal Guard, I'm obligated to get in your way if you attack her highness,” he said in a playful tone, making her raise an eyebrow at him.

“As fun as that would be, I wouldn't attack Luna. Not for that, nor for anything.” She then adopted a smug smile, “Not that you could stop me if you tried.”

“I wouldn't know about that,” he replied confidently, “I pushed back Shadow Flare's shadows pretty effortlessly,” he added coolly. “And she seemed to be putting you through the ringer.”

“S-She tricked me, alright,” she replied, glaring at nothing in particular. Well, besides her lack of foresight. “If I hadn't wasted my magic-”

He placed a reassuring hoof on her shoulder, making her flinch in surprise, her mood switching from upset to flustered so quickly that she ended up confused. “I mean- That is...”

“Sunset. What happened, happened,” Shining said, “What's important is that you learn from it, and don't let it happen again,” he said, prompting her to look him in the eyes, before giving him an agreeing nod. “So, the next time somepony bigger than you decides to have a chit-chat—“

“Don't go at it alone, and don't get caught off guard,” Sunset finished. She then held her head up, a fiery look in her eyes, “Better yet, magic first, questions later!”

“Well, I wouldn't go that far...” Shining replied sheepishly.

“Yeah, I think next time I'll just open up with a binding spell, then a magic lock,” Sunset continued, a sinister smile on her face, “Then once they're bundled up and in the dungeon, questions!” she declared, sounding very into the idea, which got a small laugh from Shining. “You think I'm joking?”

“No, not at all,” he replied with a smile, “Kind of feel sorry for the next villain you come across,” he said, getting an unamused look in turn.

“Yeah, just what I need,” Sunset grumbled, “Another foe under my hoof. Then it'll be even more 'Sunset Shimmer the Hero'!”

“That's really bothering you, huh?”

“Why shouldn't it? I didn't see a trace of anypony else getting credit!” she said as she turned towards Shining, “Where was Trixie the hero, or Twilight!” She then scoffed, “For that matter, you should be getting credit too, since you saved the day at the very end!”

“I wouldn't know about that,” Shining replied, getting a confused look from Sunset, “I'm Captain of the Royal Guard after all. Being a hero is sort of part of the job.”

“What, so ponies expect you to be heroic?” she asked, surprised by the notion.

“Kind of, I guess? Being a guard is like being a Shadowbolt, only with a lot less fame.” His face then scrunched up, “And a lot less cloak-and-dagger for that matter. At least, that's the impression Sour Night gave me about being captain.”

“That's not really fair,” Sunset replied in a put off tone as they reached the stairs leading up to the princesses' rooms.

“Maybe, but I don't mind,” he said with certainty, “I didn't join the academy to become a hero. I did it to protect what's important to me.”

“Wow, how original,” Sunset replied sarcastically, getting a small laugh from Shining.

“It's not like my motivation needs to be original for it to be important, right?”

“I guess,” she said, before glancing to the side, “It's just, everypony has something they want to protect, right?”

“Well, yeah,” he replied, before adopting a sagely look, “But we're all busy ponies. It's nice to count on others to help us protect what's important. Like how everypony counts on Princess Luna to protect Equestria. I guess I just want to be more on the active side of protecting than the typical pony.”

“Well, it kinda helps if your special talent is protection magic,” Sunset replied with a small smile, getting a sheepish look from him.

“True enough. But, I think I'd still take this path, even if it wasn't my talent.”

“Yeah, you probably would. We have to protect what we hold dear, right?” she asked, getting a nod from him, which made her adopt a determined look, “Which is why I'm going to ask Luna to set everypony straight!”

“Princess Luna is busy,” a guard they were passing decided to chime in, “and she doesn't wish to be disturbed at the moment.”

“O-Oh,” Sunset replied, caught off guard by the fact that they'd reached their destination, making her look to Luna's door. She then blinked, spotting a new door in the hall, opposite Luna's. It had Celestia's cutie-mark branded on it. “This … hasn't always been here, has it?”

“The room itself has been here for a long time,” the guard replied, “From what I was told. The door however, is new.”

“Celestia wanted to see Sunset,” Shining pointed out, getting a nod from the guard, who turned to Celestia's room, and gave it a soft knock.

“Highness, Ms. Shimmer and Captain Armor are here to see you.”

“Please, let them in,” Sunset heard from the other side, prompting the guard to open the door for them. Shining invited Sunset to enter first, which she took, stepping into the unfamiliar room, her mouth falling open as she entered.

How did Luna keep this hidden? Sunset thought wide-eyed, seeing a circular room with a domed, opaque crystalline roof. Half of the walls were crystalline too, letting in all the daylight the afternoon sky had to offer. On the opposite end was a balcony, granting view of the eastern horizon, where the sun rose. Despite all the light, the air was cold, making Sunset look around, spotting a fireplace, its hearth cold with neglect.

On the wall adjacent to the fireplace were paintings, and a number of portraits of ponies Sunset didn't recognize. There was one in particular that caught her eye. A unicorn stallion and mare, both carrying features shared by Celestia and Luna.

Sunset's eyes then shifted to the room's owner, blinking in surprise.

Celestia sat on the stone floor, next to what was likely the biggest bed in Equestria. She was wrapped up in the blankets, a pile of books cluttered around her. On an ottoman close to her was a silver tray boggled down with snack-cakes. Her disheveled pink mane reached to her shoulders, a strand running past her face as she looked to her guests, adopting a conflicted smile as she closed the book she'd been occupying herself with. Despite her large stature, she seemed small, the aura of presence she wore as Shadow Flare nothing but a distant memory.

“Highness,” Shining began, standing tall as he took a step forward, “I'm aware that you only summoned Sunset. Shall I take my leave?”

“Please, stay, Mr. Armor,” she quickly replied in an almost tired voice, “I have nothing to hide here, and see no reason to exclude you.”

“About that,” Sunset began, approaching Celestia, “Why'd you summon me?” she asked in a hard tone, prompting Shining to give her a subtle look that she took notice of. “If I may ask,” she quickly added. Celestia glanced to the side for a moment, as if prepping herself up for something, before looking Sunset in the eyes.

“I wanted to apologize to you,” she said resolutely, getting a surprised look from Sunset.

“What for?”

“I, as Shadow Flare, intended to fuse my shadow into your being...”

“But that was as Shadow Flare,” Sunset pointed out, “You're not her, you're Princess Celestia,” she said, making the princess look away for a moment.

“Please... Call me as you call my sister.”

Without the title? Sunset thought, before nodding to her.

“As I said, that was Shadow Flare. Far as I'm concerned, you and her are two different ponies, so you don't need to apologize.”

“I can't ignore what we did- What we tried to do,” Celestia replied, a guilty look in her eyes, “I feel like I've wronged you, and I at least want to be able to offer—“

“I said no,” Sunset said sternly. “I don't want it. You owe me nothing, Celestia, so just drop it,” she said, getting a surprised look from Celestia. Shining then cleared his throat, getting a look from Sunset as he stepped close.

“While I'm quite fond of your forwardness, maybe some kindness would be nice too?” he whispered, making her blush, his words reminding her of who she was talking to.

“S-So yeah, no apologies needed,” Sunset added, looking to Celestia for a moment. Kindness, huh? So I need to be more considerate ... as always, she thought, her ears briefly falling, before she adopted a determined look. “So, how have things been since yesterday?” she asked, before grabbing onto the thread she offered, “Are you going to attend the feast tonight?” she asked eagerly, hoping that was the case.

“I've declined my invitation,” Celestia said frankly, pulling the book she'd been originally looking through closer.

“What? Why!?” Sunset asked, taking a step forward, brow furrowed.

“I would feel … out of place.”

“Out of place?” Sunset mirrored, blinking as she realized the position Celestia was in.

She'd been locked in the sun for one thousand years, and hours after leaving her prison, she lost her only friend. Out of all the ponies in Equestria, there was only one who could claim to understand Celestia.

“What about Luna? She'd be there. I know she'd make you feel welcome.”

“Yes, she undoubtedly would,” Celestia replied, an odd and familiar gleam in her eye as she said it. “But I do not wish to trouble my sister any more than I already have.” She then pulled the blankets closer, opening her book, as if trying to say that the conversation was over.

“And you think closing yourself off in here isn't causing Luna any trouble?” Sunset asked with a raised eyebrow, getting a considering glance from the princess. “I saw her cry when she welcomed you back the other night. I can't recall ever seeing her cry!”

“As I said, I don't want to cause her any more trouble, which staying in here should accomplish,” she replied, the glint returning, a shine Sunset recognized; pride.

She was resolved to stay out of Luna's way, her pride setting her on the belief that it was the right thing to do.

That's right, Sunset thought in realization, The shadow was drawn to light. It was drawn to me because I was radiant. Celestia, she was radiant too. So she's similar to me in some ways. Sunset's brow then furrowed, Or maybe it's more that I'm similar to her?

“Celestia,” Sunset began, looking to draw on those similarities, “the shadow was drawn—“

“Call her Shadow Flare, or simply Flare,” Celestia quipped, giving Sunset a small glare, before blinking, and glancing to the side. “I'm sorry, but please use her name.”

“I understand,” Sunset replied, recalling Flare's feelings towards freeing Celestia from her possession. “Shadow Flare was drawn to your loneliness, born from the 'light' you cast, just as she was drawn to the envy my 'light' cast.”

“Yes, what of it?” Celestia replied, making Sunset frown.

“What was your light?” she asked, getting a considering look from Celestia, before she gave her attention back to her book.

“It doesn't matter,” she replied, leaving Sunset standing there speechless for a moment, before she adopted a frustrated glare.

'It doesn't matter'!? It does! That's what caused all this, isn't it!? Sunset took a heated step forward, She said that just to shut me out! That stubborn royal pain in the- Before Sunset could open her mouth and voice her thoughts, Shining placed a hoof on her shoulder, making her flinch in surprise, prompting her to turn towards him with a glare.

He matched her glare with a cool look. His eyes were calm, and he was giving her a reassuring smile, and those forces combined worked wonders on blowing out her fuse. She blinked, looking at him for a moment longer, before glancing to the side, letting out a small sigh. Dang it. Why'd Twilight have to leave so early? She's much better at dealing with this than I, she thought as she glanced back to Celestia, who was busy looking over her literary shield.

Sunset looked from the princess, to Shining, considering how to approach this. She wanted Celestia to go to the feast, to be happy, and to make Luna happy. So how was she supposed to do that? She considered it for a moment, before adopting a determined look.

“Celestia, you should go to the feast,” she insisted, getting a glance from the princess.

“I said no,” she replied, her tone just as unyielding as Sunset's.

“And I'm saying otherwise,” she replied, making Celestia raise an eyebrow at her.

“You think to command a princess?” she asked defensively.

“Funny, I don't see you wearing a crown,” Sunset replied snidely, getting a flustered look from the white mare.

“Why- Why are you so insistent!?” she asked, getting a soft look from Sunset.

“Because, you'll never end your loneliness by staying in here.”

“...I know that,” Celestia replied, her ears fallen as she looked to the window. “I know. But...” Her sentence trailed off, making Sunset look out the window as well, her eyes widening as she realized a similarity between them.

Celestia reaching out of her regret-coated shell, was similar to Sunset reaching out to her father. There was a fear behind their in-action. An unreasonable, self-obsessed, pride-born fear. One that kept Sunset away from her father for far too long. One the kept Celestia to this room. She was afraid to reach out, because she didn't trust herself anymore. Celestia felt as if she had betrayed her sister, and possibly Equestria.

As if seeing the heart of the problem for the first time, Sunset was hit with an epiphany, understanding what needed to be done. And it was something her friends would have beaten her to, had they been here at this moment.

“Celestia, can I be your friend?” she asked, getting a surprised look from her company. Celestia gave Sunset a blank look for several seconds before letting out an unexpected bout of laughter.

“Be friends, after we were nearly yelling at each other?” she asked, making Sunset let out a sheepish laugh.

“I have a bad habit of yelling at ponies, especially ones I like.”

“I wasn't aware I'd 'earned your approval',” she replied, a warm expression on her face.

“I may be a little narcissistic,” Sunset admitted, “Stubbornness tends to catch my eye.”

“Ahh, so she admits to being stubborn,” Shining chimed in playfully, making Sunset blush, which prompted more laughter from Celestia.

“Th-That aside,” Sunset said, trying to hide her embarrassment, “from what Luna's told me, I'm pretty sure you're the kind of pony I'd like to call friend.”

“Well, that's reassuring...” Celestia replied, putting her book to the side.

“Celestia,” Sunset began in a teasing tone, “are you really somepony who'd be content sitting in a room for the rest of time?” she asked, prompting Celestia to raise an eyebrow.

“Care to guess what being trapped in a bright yellow ball for one thousand years does to somepony's patience?” she asked almost whimsically, getting a hesitant laugh from Sunset.

“I-If you can joke about it, then things are already looking up, right?” Sunset asked, making Celestia blink in surprised.

“Yes. I suppose you're right,” she said, her smile becoming more serene. A smile Sunset was used to seeing on Luna's face. Their statures and colors were different, but there was little doubt to the fact that Luna and Celestia were sisters.

“So, you're going, right?” Sunset asked with a hopeful smile, “It's the Hearth's Warming Feast. I can't think of a better time for you to reconnect with Equestria.”

“I know my sister is eager to meet you,” Shining chipped in, “If you can be friends with Sunset, then you're practically already Twilight's friend!” Celestia looked between the two of them for a moment, before adopting a coy smile.

“I'll think about it,” she replied, making Sunset raise an eyebrow at her.

“So, since you're Luna's older sister...” Sunset began, deciding to take a page from Trixie's book, “Have any embarrassing stories about her?”

“You want to hear a story? But all that is practically ancient history,” Celestia replied, before her eyes widened at the crone-ish implications. “A-Actually,” she added in a flustered tone, “Yes, I have plenty of stories.” She then adopted a considering look, before she started to smile in recollection. “Oh dear... Which to choose? Oh, I know! This may surprise you, but between the two of us, I was the well behaved sister.”

“You don't say?” Sunset replied, with a touch of sarcasm.

“Indeed, it's true, and how it vexed her so,” she said, a fond glint in her eyes. “'Luna, why can't you be more like your big sister' they'd say. She always made the cutest face when they lectured her.” She then began to laugh, bringing a hoof to cover her mouth, “This one time, she tried to prank me by dropping a bee hive on my head. Didn't quite work out as planned. Suffice to say, she couldn't fly straight for days.”

Her laughter was golden, bringing a smile to her company, making Sunset nod to herself in understanding. “So- So naturally,” she managed to get in between her giggles, “it was easier for me to capture her, and coddle her for her foolishness.” The mental image of the always wise and composed Luna being coddled, disgruntled in the process flashed through Sunset's imagination, eliciting a short laugh from her. “Oh how I miss those days,” she added, a bittersweet smile on her face, before she appraised Sunset. “Now, I may be a millennium out of touch, but I'm pretty sure you're supposed to reciprocate,” Celestia said with a playful smile, making Sunset blink for a moment, before adopting a considering look.

Thinking on it for several seconds, Sunset picked out a tale of her own, in similar nature to Celestia's. It starred Trixie being the fool, the mare being coddled by Twilight in the aftermath as Sunset berated her. And in that vein, Celestia and Sunset swapped stories for a little over half an hour, both enjoying the exchange. Things shifted when the princess gave Shining Armor a considering look.

“What of you, captain? Have you stories to offer?” Celestia asked. Shining was caught off guard by the question, quickly losing himself in thought, before adopting a rueful smile.

“Six years ago,” he began, “Sunset and I were looking for a gift to buy Twiley for Hearth's Warming.” Sunset tilted her head in recollection, before her eyes widened, her face flushing.

“Let's not tell that one,” Sunset quickly said, getting a put off look from the stallion, getting a curious look from Celestia.

“Oh? Why not?” the princess asked innocently, prompting Sunset to look from her to Shining. “Go on captain, continue your tale.”

“Well, she insisted on a copy of...” he then frowned slightly, “I don't remember what the book was, but I knew Twilight wouldn't like it.”

“It was a book on the theory of relative magic,” Sunset replied, upset he forgot that detail, making him nod.

“Right! That was it. I wanted to get her something she could share with her friends, but Sunset wasn't having any of it—“

“So we talked it out like civilized ponies and chose to do both. The end!” Sunset concluded, getting a flustered look from Shining.

“Civilized ponies, eh? That's a lot more tame than the version I recall,” he replied with an raised eyebrow, making her turn to him.

“And that's as tame as it's going to be. I was a stubborn mule, okay? I don't want to share that story,” she explained, getting a concerned look from him.

“Even the part when we found out Trixie makes for a poor Spike-sitter?” he asked, getting a small smile from the mare, which she quickly hid. The two continued bickering over the memory, oblivious of the princess watching the exchange. Celestia's eyes looked between the two of them, adopting a knowing smile, before she cleared her throat. They both looked at her, having actually forgotten about her for a moment, making them both blush in unison. The sight made Celestia giggle.

“H-Highness?”

“What's so funny?”

They asked in unison, making Celestia wave a hoof in an assuring gesture, while trying to control her escalated laughter.

“It- It's nothing, worry not,” she replied with a smile, “You needn't finish the tale, Mr. Armor. Though I do admit-” She was interrupted by a knock at the door, making them stare to it in surprise.

“Sister, may I come in?” a familiar voice asked, making Sunset's ears perk up, recalling what drove her to the castle in the first place. She turned to the door, ready to welcome Luna inside, but she hesitated. Celestia had adopted a somber look at hearing her sister's voice. She then glanced to Sunset, considering something for a moment, before taking in a deep breath.

“You may,” Celestia replied, the door opening in short order, Luna wearing a surprised look when she noticed Sunset.

“Ah, I suspected you were here,” Luna said, glancing between Sunset and her sister, before adopting a hesitant smile.

“You wish to speak with her,” Celestia stated flatly, getting up, wearing the blanket as a robe as she walked towards the balcony, “Don't mind me, I have some words to share with the captain anyway, then I'll need to be getting ready.”

“Getting ready?” Luna asked curiously, before her eyes widened in hope.

“I need some fresh air, and I've heard that Ponyville is plentiful of that,” Celestia replied, giving Luna a small smile, before going outside, ushering Shining Armor, who gave Sunset a confused look, before following after the princess. Luna looked from Celestia to Sunset, her surprise evident. A childish grin followed, making her approach Sunset, catching the mare with a hug.

“I don't know what you said to Tia, but it brings me great joy! Thank you for saying it, Sunset.”

“I-It was nothing!” Sunset replied, terrible flustered, Luna's gratitude spawning butterflies in Sunset's stomach. She put a hoof around Luna's shoulder for a moment, returning the hug, before breaking free from it. “S-So, about this whole hero nonsense..." she said, trying to steer the conversation away from more unexpected praise.

“Ah yes, from the letter I received, it sounded like you were upset about that?” Luna asked, getting a firm nod from Sunset. “I admit to having given it some thought, and have a good idea on how to tackle it,” she said, a very suspicious grin on her face.

“And that is...?" Sunset asked, a feeling of foreboding coming over her.

“Sunset Shimmer, I do believe this has been a long time coming,” Luna began, standing tall as she gave Sunset a calm, warm look. “Will you take your place by my side, as Sir Tell Tale has before?”

Sunset paused, her thoughts coming to a halt, unsure if she heard Luna right.

“Huh?”

“Sunset Shimmer, will you be my knight?”

Author's Note

Author's Note: Make sure the next villain Sunset comes across gets exactly what's coming to them.
Well, this was chapter was more stressful to write then I thought it would. Hopefully the next one will be easier.
Once again, and again, and again, thanks for reading! One chapter to go~!

3. Tomorrow's Promise

'Knight of Princess Luna.'

To the nobles, a knight was nothing more than a pain in the flank. A pony with a flashy title who could say whether or not they could do this or that. An outsider that the princess favored. A nuisance.

To the common pony, they were an inspiration. Somepony that had earned Princess Luna's trust, meaning they were respectable individuals of merit and praise.

However, few fully understood what the title meant, or what it granted. Sunset Shimmer and her friends knew. A knight was somepony Luna relied on. Counted on. Trusted without any doubts. Holding the title offered a great deal of power for aiding the princess. Commanding the troops. Overseeing the nobility. Full access to the treasury. Insight on the world's secrets.

There were given so much, to tackle the task of protecting Equestria, each in their own unique way. They tackled the threats to the nation before they would require intervention by the princess. There were tasked with giving the princess some peace of mind.

All knights are given an affix to mark their station, and were addressed as Sir or Lady. Lady Clover the Clever, Sir Tell Tale the Bookkeeper, Sir Prismashield the Dauntless. Many, many knights served under Princess Luna through the centuries, and each and every one of them, she called friend.

It was a goal Sunset once sought, tempering her patience over the years as Luna's student. And now, it was being offered to her. She expected to be happy to hear those words. Indeed, her heart nearly leapt from its chest when it finally settled in what Luna was offering. But that elation was short-lived, replaced by confusion.

How was making her a knight suppose to tackle her problem with being called a hero?

Her confusion then shifted to worry as she realized that though accepting would bring her closer to Luna, it would also put more distance between herself and her friends. Or was that really the case?

Luna gave Sunset a concerned look, her jumbled state evident on her face, her expression settling on glancing away from Luna, as she tried to set her thoughts straight. Today was proving to be mentally exhausting.

“Sunset?” Luna asked, a little confused by her reaction. Sunset's head snapped up at her voice, briefly glancing to the side for a moment, before giving her a focused look.

“It's too sudden,” she stated.

“Sudden?” Luna replied, “Well, I suppose so, but, I was always under the impression you'd jump at the bit when I offered you the post.”

“That is-” Hey, wait a second! she thought as she gave a suspicious look, “You said this was a long time coming, were you...”

“Yes, I've been intending to knight you for several years now.”

“For how long?” Sunset asked, her pride pushing through her confusion, getting a thoughtful look from the princess.

“It felt like a right fit shortly after you graduated,” she replied, before tilting her head, “Did earning the Element of Loyalty change your mind?” she asked curiously, getting a hesitant shake from Sunset.

“When I was caught in the shadow snare, I saw things. Things about myself that I've been trying to overlook,” she admitted, not in the mood to offer more at this moment. She then gave a hesitant smile. “Luna, I'm happy that you're offering me the position. I really am. But, I need some time to think about it.”

“Of course Sunset,” Luna replied, a patient smile on her face, “It's a life changing decision after all, so take as long as you'd like.” She then put a hoof on Sunset's shoulder, “I trust you'll make the choice you believe is the right one, and will be happy to support and respect it.” Sunset gave her a thankful nod, before adopting a small frown.

“What about Tell Tale? You're not making me his subordinate, are you?” She had mixed feelings about that notion. She was kind of hoping her days with him as her pseudo-mentor were over.

“Oh no, Sir Tell Tale will become Celestia's knight. That way he can help her get better acclimated to how Equestria runs.” She then adopted a fond smile, “He's particularly good at managing the nobility.” She then let out a sheepish laugh, “Though I'm certain he's not looking forward to the end of his vacation.” Sunset tilted her head at that. “They want to speak to Celestia. They're anxious, with a new princess appearing 'without their consent',” Luna added, a gleam of something dangerous in her eyes, which quickly passed.

“You think Celestia would really need help with all that?” Sunset asked skeptically, which Luna didn't hesitate to nod to.

“When we ruled together last, she made all the shots, while I helped look over everyponies' dreams,” she explained. “I had no idea how involved running a nation was. Taking over for her was rough, that first decade, but I adjusted.” She then adopted a sad smile, “I'm afraid the Equestria of then is long gone.”

“I suppose so...” Sunset replied. Equestria's bigger than where it started, in size and population, she thought to herself, before looking to Luna to voice her next concern, “So, how is becoming a knight supposed to clear up everypony calling me a hero?” she asked with a raised eyebrow. “Isn't that just going to validate it?”

“Exactly,” she replied confidently, getting a flat, disappointed look from Sunset. “Sunset, everypony calling you a hero is a matter of course. I know it can be bothersome, but unfortunately you'll just have to roll with it for a week or two. Things will settle down and before you know it you'll stop having ponies hounding your home.”

“Is that really how it works?”

“That's usually how I've seen it play out,” she replied, getting a cross look from Sunset. “Ponies typically ask things of heroes. 'Could you chase the timberwolves away from my farm' or 'please donate and or help to this noble cause'. But I know you'll be fine in that regard.”

“Oh,” Sunset replied, blinking for a moment, before letting out a sigh. Is it really that easy? Was I really worrying over nothing? she wondered, recalling Trixie's mirth at her distress. She then glanced to the balcony doors as Celestia returned, leaving Shining standing alone outside, lost in thought.

“Have you finished?” Celestia asked, casting her eyes hesitantly to her sister, before looking to Sunset.

“I think so,” Sunset replied, giving Luna a curious look. There was a sad glint in her eyes, but it faded as Luna nodded.

“Sunset, I think it would be best if you made your way to Ponyville,” Luna said. “My sister and I need to prepare some things, and I know the others would appreciate your help in setting the feast up.”

“I... I think I'll do that,” Sunset replied with a nod, looking forward to the prospect. “Shining, you coming?” she asked, certain he'd reply with a nod. He hesitated, looking to her with an odd look on his face. He glanced away from a moment, before taking in a deep breath, as if psyching himself up for something.

“Yeah... Where are we going?” he asked, his voice taking on an enthusiastic note.

“Ponyville?” Sunset asked in a curious tone, now wondering what he and Celestia had talked about.

“Oh, alright!” he said, before his eyes widened, a idea coming to mind. “How does a hot-air balloon ride sound?”

“It sounds good to me,” she replied. I can use the ride to think things through, she thought, failing to notice Shining's hesitant smile as he came to her side. “Later Luna, Celestia,” she added, giving the princesses a smile, getting two back as she left, Shining following a step behind her.

“So, what matter did you need to discuss with the Captain?” Luna asked as the door started to close, making Sunset and Shining stop, their ears turning in unison to catch the reply. Celestia let out a small chuckle.

“That's a secret for later, dear sister,” she replied, and Sunset could feel the smile in her words. She also didn't fail to notice Shining letting out a sigh of relief. He then stood tall when he noticed Sunset appraising him.

“A secret's a secret,” he said resolutely, making Sunset look at him for a moment longer, before letting out a sigh herself. They then made their way through the castle, their hooves being the only thing breaking the silence, both lost in their own thoughts.

If I accept, then nothing will really change, right? I mean, Luna will be counting on me more, and I'll need to learn everything that goes into being a knight, but I'll still live in Canterlot. She then frowned, But, then I'll be busier than ever. And what about Spike, and my friends? Is now really the best time to become a knight?

Reflecting on Luna's words, Sunset noticed a particular detail that gnawed at her. What about Tell Tale? For some reason, she couldn't picture him simply leaving Luna's side. Is he fine with this? And what about Celestia? Her frown persisted. There was something about all this she didn't like, but she couldn't nail down what it was.

She paused, bringing a hoof to her chest, feeling the pendant hidden under her scarf. She was the bearer of loyalty now. Her life was changing, and it was thanks to this mysterious ruby...

'The Longest Day'

It's what everypony was calling Shadow Flare's brief reign. Sunset's mind looped through what happened that day, weighing how it weighed on her life, and how that weight was now adorned around her neck.

And she found that it wasn't true. The Element of Loyalty wasn't the cause of all the change spiraling around her. Her life was changing because she acted. Luna was right, it had been her choice, their choice to get involved with Shadow Flare. Yes, she provided the means, but ultimately the choice was theirs. It was Sunset's choice.

She wanted to save Luna. Somepony she loved was in danger, and she came running. That was her decision, and she didn't regret it. Shadow Flare gave her a choice, and the one she settled with earned her the necklace. She didn't choose to be a hero, it was simply an unseen consequence of her decisions.

Just like being labeled as a 'Disciple of the Moon' was a consequence of dragging Luna to the Grand Galloping Gala.

Sunset wanted to kick herself in the flank. She wanted to set everypony straight, let them know she wasn't a hero. But it's not really their fault they see her that way. She was trying to run from the problem by turning to Luna, and the princess didn't let her have it.

So now here she was. She was a hero, and she'd have to put up with it. It was a label given by others, and it was arrogant to call them wrong for it. Twilight, Trixie, Shining Armor, Spike, they all deserved credit too, but it was her plan, her magic that won over Shadow Flare. And now here she was, another decision waiting to be made.

To be a knight, or not?

She honestly couldn't see herself refusing, so it was more of a question of when. Should she accept the role now, or wait until this whole 'reforming the Elements of Harmony' thing blew over?

“Judging by the look on your face,” Shining began, his voice pulling Sunset out of her thoughts, bringing her back to the cold outdoors, warmed by his patient presence, “Luna didn't give you what you wanted.” He had a concerned look in his eyes.

“Hah," she let out, "She offered to make me her knight instead,” she explained, getting a surprised look, which Sunset mirrored, but for a different reason. They were already at the balloon's landing.

“A knight huh? And you didn't say yes,” he stated, making Sunset blink at him.

“H- How'd you know?”

“I could see it on your face,” he replied matter-of-factly. She didn't immediately reply, their conversation on pause as they settled things out with the attendant for the balloon ride. A few minutes later they were in the air, having the balloon to themselves.

“Perks of being captain,” Shining replied happily, getting a sigh from Sunset as they began to drift to Ponyville.

“Perks. Being a knight has a lot of those,” she began, making him tilt his head. “The offer caught me off guard. I needed to think about it.”

“Have you decided?” he asked, and Sunset shook her head.

“I want to say yes, but it feels like I'm not being given much of a choice.”

“Why's that? I mean, you said earlier you wanted to change, by your own actions. Isn't choosing to be a knight the perfect opportunity for that?” he pointed out, getting a conflicted look from her.

“Shining, can you picture me refusing the position?” she asked, making him quickly shake his head.

“Not really. You'd surprise everypony if you refused it.” His brow then furrowed, “You're not going to refuse, are you?”

“I...” she hesitated. If she wanted to change, then going against what she'd normally do would be a step in the proper direction. Right?

“I think you should take it,” he added in a determined tone. “If you don't feel like you've got a really choice in it, then just do what you'd always do.”

“What I always do?” she asked, getting an affirmative nod from him.

“Settle it on your terms.”

“You … don't think I'll grow more distant, by taking that position?”

“More distant?” he asked in surprise, “I can't really picture that happening.” His eyes then widened as he put together what was eating at her. “Wait, when you said you needed to change earlier, you were talking about that?”

“Y-Yeah,” she replied, losing him in thought for several seconds, before he let out a sigh.

“I get it now. Being called a hero when Trixie and Twilely aren't makes you think they're being pushed away.”

“I didn't say that?”

“You said you don't want change placed on you,” he pointed out as he raised an eyebrow. “Sunset, don't worry about all that. Being a hero, or being a knight, they change how you live your life, but not who you are.”

“I don't follow,” she said flatly, getting a thoughtful look from him.

“Do you think I've changed? I spent years at the academy, training, working my flank off, and here I am now, Captain of the Royal Guard.”

Of course he's changed, Sunset thought, her look holding steady as she considered him, He's taller, more confident, stronger, and of course, he's Captain of the Royal Guard!

“Yes, you have changed,” she stated matter-of-factly, getting a sheepish chuckle out of him.

“So, I'm no longer Shining Armor?” he asked, making Sunset tilt her head as she glanced to the side.

He's still Shining Armor- Oh...

“I think I see what you're saying,” she admitted, “You're a lot like you were before leaving for the academy.” She then nodded to herself, “You're the same Shining Armor I knew.”

“And even if you're a hero, or a knight, you're still going to be the Sunset Shimmer everypony knows.” He then adopted a sagely look, “Knight. Hero. Captain. They're all titles that give ponies that don't know us an impression of who we are. Our friends and family, they don't need those fancy titles. We are who we are. Sure, we change. Our lives, those can change in an instant, but who we are? That takes a bit longer.” He then gave her an assuring smile. “Would you say I'm a different pony from who I used to be?”

“No, you're still the same insightful, goofy and collected Shining Armor I fell- I came to appreciate,” she replied, suddenly finding herself very interested in the landscape they were flying over, and not what she almost said. Shining blinked at her stutter, before blushing slightly.

“But you see my point, right?” he asked, getting silence from her for several moments.

“...Shining, I want to change for the better.”

“And I'm sure whatever choice you make will be the right one,” he replied, before giving her a soft look. “Don't worry too much about it, Twiley does more than enough of that for the three of you,” he added in a playful tone.

“Heh.”

“Look, if it helps, you are changing for the better,” he assured, getting a surprised look from her.

“How do you know?”

“The Sunset I used to know wouldn't have talked with her father yesterday,” he said, making her heart flush briefly, before she adopted a small smile.

He was right. She was already on the path of changing who she was. Changing her life was a means to changing who, but ultimately it was how she lived her life that made her who she was. Luna wanted her to be her knight. Something about that bothered Sunset, and it wasn't about the change it would have on her life. He was right. Whatever it was, she was going to settle it, on her terms.

“So, I'm goofy?” he asked, making her blink in surprise, before letting out a short fit of laughter.

“You're worse than Trixie.”

“I think she'd be offended by that,” he replied lightheartedly, “And I'm more, confident, you say?” he added, giver her a toothy grin.

“You seem more put together, more commanding. Guess you'd be a poor captain otherwise.”

“Sour Night called me bold. I suppose applying for this role right out the gate would give that impression.”

“I suppose...” Sunset replied, carrying a small smile as she took in the snowy clouds above Ponyville.

“I kind of find it funny. You know, Celestia told me that I needed to be more bold.”

“What, when she pulled you to the side?” she asked, getting a nod from him, his cheeks flushing slightly. “Why's that?” He didn't answer for several seconds, his face deepening a shade of red, a fact that made Sunset's face start to flush, though she couldn't pin down why.

“So, if you said yes, and became a knight, I'm guessing it would also make all the front pages,” he pointed out, glancing off to the side to hide his blush, getting a curious look from Sunset, before she frowned.

“I suppose so,” she let out with a sigh, glancing in the opposite direction. “Then I'll have more ponies waiting at my home to pester me with more character provoking questions,” she said, getting a short laugh from him.

“By then, your magic should be fully recovered. You'll be able to teleport around Canterlot without much trouble.”

“True, but it'd probably be better to answer a few of their questions first,” she said, making it sound like the worst possible thing that could happen.

“It guess it would be a real bother,” he said teasingly.

“Yes, yes it would.”

“I can see the header now: 'Sunset Shimmer, Knighted for Kicking Flank!'”

“Hah. I don't think Celestia would appreciate that,” Sunset pointed out.

“Hmm, what about: 'Brings Back Night, Becomes Knight!'?”

“Still better than being called 'Disciple of the Moon',” she replied, a smile on her face as she took in the cold breeze.

“Or how about: 'New Knight and Captain: Canterlot's Hottest Couple?'?” he said, getting a short laugh from her.

“I wouldn't mind that one,” she replied, her mirth being cut short. Wait. What did he just- She blinked, her heart skipping a beat. What did I just say!? she thought, her mouth falling open as she turned to him, his face practically red, his mouth hanging open at her response.

“You're fine with that?” he asked eagerly as he leaned towards her.

Wait, what's happening!? she screamed to herself, her eyes widening. Shining is taking the initiative!? He beat me to it!? she was tripping over her thoughts as she glanced to the side. Stop thinking and answer him you silly filly!

“Are you?” she asked. What kind of reply was that!?

“Yes.” He had a fired up look in his eyes. “I wouldn't mind at all. In fact, I'm quite certain I'd love it.”

He said yes! Sunset's chest hurt, as if her heart were trying to kill itself on the spot. No! Not dieing right now! Answer him! Pull yourself together-

“I know you probably didn't want to hear this right now, with everything else going on, but Sunset, I want to be your special somepony.”

Special somepony! He. Said. It. She was starting to feel dizzy. Pull it together Sunset, take a deep breath, and give a reasonable, collected—

“Why?” Or you could ask another question. Sure, why not!? “I mean, why me? I'm rude, insensitive, arrogant, prideful, stubborn—“ He shook his head, bringing himself closer to her, causing her to slink back unexpectedly.

“Sunset, you're not rude. You're direct. You give your unfiltered opinion without hesitation.” He then shook his head as he sat down, letting her sit back up. “Insensitive? You're just focused, so focused that you forget who's around you when you're lost in thought. And arrogance? More like confidence, and why shouldn't you be? You likely have the strongest magical aptitude out of all the unicorns in Equestria, and you're almost the smartest! And yes, you're prideful, but you don't wear it as a badge, unlike nobles. You don't let your pride place you above everypony else, you don't expect normal ponies to worship the ground you walk on. And as for your stubbornness? Yes, I'll admit that it can be frustrating to deal with that, but it also makes you very reliable. Nopony doubts you'll do what you'll say because of how stubborn and resolute you are. Sunset, where you see flaws, I see what makes you beautiful. I love that you're not afraid to speak your mind. You try to right your wrongs, and you never ask for help unless you need it. Your independence is inspiring. I've wanted to be more like that, to be more 'put together'.” He gave her a soft, and caring look, his words having painted her face beet red. “Sunset, I love everything about you.” He then gave her a worried smile, “I have to know. Do you feel the same?”

She had no words to offer him, her mind lost in his rebuttal to her flaws. She'd always hoped she was more than a friend to him, and those words convinced her of that, leaving her speechless, her eyes stinging at the truth of it.

“...You really have changed,” she started off, letting out a weak laugh, which grew a little bit, letting out the pent up emotions his confession bore. Her odd mirth made Shining adopt a sheepish look, which made her make an assuring gesture. “I like it,” she quickly added, “I love it." She then glanced to the side, before taking in a deep breath. "Shining, you probably know by now; I've always had a crush on you.” His sheepish look only grew.

“I didn't notice for the longest time,” he admitted, “Trixie pointed it out to me a few years back.”

“R-Really?” Sunset stammered, suddenly suspicious of what Trixie whispered to Spike earlier in the day.

“I thought the way you acted around me was, well, normal, but as I got older, I saw that wasn't the case.”

“I'm … not sure how it started, it was just an odd attraction. But as time went on, it became stronger.” It was her turn to adopt a determined look in her eyes. “I can't list off everything I like about you-” She then shook her head. Come on Sunset, that's not true and you know it! “Shining, I like your goofiness. I love that you treat me like any other pony. I love your patience, and how cool you are,” she let out, holding a hoof to her chest, his blush deepening slightly.

“I- I'm cool?” he asked in surprise, getting a sweet laugh from her.

“I mean cool-headed,” she added, giving him a sly smile.

“Oh,” he replied, a little disappointed.

“We both know I'm the hotheaded one. I have a short fuse, and I'm quick to assume the worst about others. And yet, you always have a patient look in your eyes when I go off, and your smile always calms me down.” She then looked off to the sky, a winter breeze ruffling her mane as she took in another deep breath. “Shining, I always wanted us to be, well, more. But something was always distracting me from it. I'm direct, and blunt, and yet I couldn't be the one that started this conversation.”

“...I get the feeling that Celestia knew that.”

“Celestia?” Sunset asked, caught off guard by the turn in topic. Her eyes then widened, “Wait, did she—“

“She did,” he replied, shaking his head, “Never thought I'd get 'romantic advice' from royalty.” Sunset hadn't been expecting that, making her stare off for a moment, adopting a considering look.

“I wonder if she saw it in me, when she was with Shadow Flare?” Sunset said, more to herself, before looking to Shining Armor. “So, you want me to be your special somepony?” she asked, giving him a timid look. Her expression caught the stallion off guard, making him reel back, as if it had physically hit him. He then collected himself, clearing his throat before giving her a sure-fire look.

“Only if you'll have me as yours, my lady,” he replied in his deep, heroic tone, getting a youthful laugh from Sunset, which he adopted as well.

“I'd love to,” she replied, taking initiative as she closed the distance between them, sitting snugly next to him. He blushed, and she followed suit as she leaned into him, enjoying the warmth he radiated. “You know, becoming a knight would make me your superior,” she pointed out, giving him a playful grin. He let out a bemoaned sigh.

“I suppose I'll have to treat you as a princess then. Shouldn't be too hard though.” He then gave her a playful grin of his own. “You do realize that becoming a couple means we're inviting all sorts of drama onto our lives, Right?” he pointed out, making Sunset scoff.

“Like I'm going to let that happen.”

“Oh?” Shining said coyly, “What if some evil pony decides to take one of us hostage?”

“Then I shall take a moment, right now, to feel pity for said fool,” Sunset said without a hint of doubt, closing her eyes and bringing her forehooves to her chest. “Alas poor villain, I pity thee,” she let out, getting a boisterous laugh from Shining, which she shortly mirrored.

The couple continued their playful banter as they drifted to Ponyville. Both of them radiating the purest form of happiness, wearing youthful smiles, as their hearts floated above the clouds.

~~~

The sun would be setting soon, and everything for the feast was almost ready. Lined outside Town Hall were countless tables, the square rimmed with many stalls, ponies at work cooking everything an Equestrian could ask for. Those not cooking were getting the tables ready, dishes and glasses and adding a little bit of a holiday touch.

Inside Town Hall, ponies of note and name were allowed entry for the large ring of tables in the building's first floor. It was here the princesses would dine, after which they would step outside to interact with the ponies not given entrance into the hall. It was here that Sunset and her friends found themselves.

As soon as Sunset and Shining Armor had arrived in Ponyville, they were assaulted with things to do. They did them together, but the rush and panic that seemed to permeate the town's air kept them from idle chatter. In fact, Sunset wasn't able to get a word in with her friends for several hours. Not that she minded. Everypony was busy getting things together, and she found herself enjoying the controlled chaos around her. After several hours of hard work, everything was nearly ready, leaving everypony hungry, and giving Sunset and her friends some time to themselves.

Sunset and Shining found Trixie and Twilight together in the hall, Spike on Trixie's back, each of them wearing festive clothing. When Trixie noticed Sunset approach, she glanced between the couple, before adopting a sly smile.

“Hello Sunset,” she began, “Trixie couldn't help but notice that you to have been glowing since you arrived~” Trixie said in a teasing tone, making Sunset and Shining share an embarrassed look.

“Glowing?” Twilight asked, adopting a scrutinizing gaze, “There is something odd about you two. You seem, happier?” she added, getting a sheepish laugh from Sunset.

“Don't mind Trixie, Twilight, she's just being—“ Sunset began, her voice being switched off by a certain show-pony's magic.

“She's just being a good friend who's losing her patience,” Trixie finished, stepping closer as Sunset pointed at her tingling throat, giving Trixie an annoyed look. “Come on Sunset, isn't it about time you came clean with her?” she asked with a raised eyebrow. “If you're not up to it, Trixie could tell her for you,” she added coyly, her spell fading out as Sunset gave her a surprised look.

“Come clean about what?” Twilight asked curiously, an oblivious look on her face as she glanced between Sunset and her brother.

“Twilight, I ... maay be stealing your brother from you,” Sunset replied sheepishly, getting a blank look from the purple unicorn.

“How would you do that?” she asked curiously, making Trixie throw her hooves in the air in exasperation.

“For Luna's sake Twilight. They're a couple of lovey-dovey-silly-ponies!” Trixie then shook her head, “Come on! Sunset's been pining after your brother for forever!”

“What? Huh?” Twilight asked, sounding alarmed, looking between Sunset and Shining for a moment, seeing them blush in tandem. “...Oh,” Twilight replied with a blank stare, before her eyes widened. “Oh!” She then gave them both a sparkling smile. “That's- That's wonderful! I mean, you're sure about this?” she asked, giving them a seriously concerned look.

“Positive.” Sunset and Shining replied in tandem, getting a short chuckle from Spike. Twilight was about to say something, but a flurry of fireworks and illusions went off, catching the entire attention of everypony in the hall.

Sunset gave Trixie an annoyed look, before she started feeling the eyes of everypony on her and Shining. It wasn't her imagination. Everypony was looking at them, some with fond smiles, others with confusion or even envy. It took Sunset a moment to realize why they were looking at her. Floating about them was an illusionary arrow accompanied by the words 'Finally Going Steady'.

“We- We're not going steady—“ Sunset stammered out, her face turning red as Trixie stepped in.

“The Great and Patient Trixie has been waiting years for this. So yes. You are!” she said with a stalwart smile, before catching Sunset off guard with a hug, “Honestly, it's aggravated Trixie to no end...” she added, giving the surprised mare a light squeeze, before letting go. “Still, Trixie is happy for you,” she then glanced between them, “Both of you.”

“Huh. My best friend and my brother,” Twilight said, more so to herself, “Does... that mean Sunset will become my sister someday?” she asked out loud, the question making Sunset's heart skip a beat, her words nearly causing her and Shining to topple over at the prospect. Twilight's eyes then widened. “Oh! Speaking of family,” she began, adopting a sheepish look.

Oh no, what now!? Sunset thought, preparing herself for another loaded sentence.

“Uhmm, Sunset, I'm really sorry,” Twilight said, getting a confused and flustered look from Sunset, “I tried to talk your dad into coming tonight, but he was too busy.” Sunset's eyes widened at her words, and as if popping a bubble, the eyes of everypony drifted away, Trixie cutting off her magic as she gave her friend a concerned look.

“You-” Sunset began, before shaking her head and taking in a deep breath, “That's alright Twilight. Thank you. But, don't worry about it. I'll be with him tomorrow, along with relatives,” she assured, turning Twilight's frown around.

“After yesterday, well, I wanted to surprise you,” Twilight explained, before letting out a small sigh.

“There's a lot of questions I have about this,” Spike admitted, pointing a claw between Sunset and Shining armor, getting a light chuckle from Sunset. “Good questions,” he assured with a smile, before adopting a considering look, “But first thing's first. What did Celestia want to talk to you about?” he asked, making Sunset let out a sigh, glad the topic was moving away from herself and Shining.

“It was nothing big, she wanted to apologize,” Sunset explained, before adopting a troubled look. “Luna however, well, she caught me off guard.”

“How's that?” Spike asked curiously, making her glance to the side for a moment, before adopting a determined look.

“She's offered me to be her knight.”

“Really!?”

“Awesome!”

“Curses!”

Twilight, Spike and Trixie said in unison, making the group of friends eye the blue unicorn curiously.

“'Curses'?” Sunset asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I think our blue friend doth protest,” Shining chimed in, getting a sigh from Trixie.

“It's just, Trixie kind of wanted to be Luna's knight,” she said sheepishly, pursing her hooves together as she glanced to the side.

“Trixie,” Sunset began, “you wouldn't be able to go out and about, doing your shows if you were her knight,” she explained, making the show-pony scoff.

“Says you,” Trixie replied, sticking her tongue out, “Still...” she added, letting out a defeated sigh before giving Sunset a wink. “Trixie is happy for you. But!” she said as she raised a hoof, giving her a small frown, “She will not let this slide.”

“If you say soomph—!“

“That's the second best news I've heard all day~!” Twilight let out, practically tackling Sunset in a hug. “So, when do you start?”

“I haven't said yes yet,” Sunset admitted, ignoring the pain Twilight's hard hug elicited in her horn as she pushed her friend off. “But I'm going to, after talking to her.”

“So you'll be starting soon?” Twilight asked, getting a nod from Sunset.

“Once I get something off my chest, yes, I will.” She then adopted a sheepish look, “You girls don't mind, right?”

“Trixie does mind!” she replied with a small glare. She then blinked as she caught onto Sunset's meaning, making her roll her eyes, “Oh, you mean about that whole 'I'm a terrible friend because I shine as bright as the sun' thing.” She then cleared her throat, “Trixie. Doesn't. Mind!”

“I'm with Trixie,” Twilight assured, “Sunset, you asked us for help. We're not going to stop simply because you're moving up,” she said with a warm smile, which Sunset mirrored.

“Thanks girls. I, I'm really lucky to have you,” Sunset said, giving both of them a brief hug.

“So, does this mean we're moving back into the castle?” Spike asked, getting a considering look from Sunset.

“I … don't know. We'll iron out the small details later. Promise,” she assured, before glancing to the stairs that led to the second floor. “I guess they'll be coming out soon, so I'll go give Luna my answer.”

“Shall we go with you?” Spike asked, making Sunset shake her head.

“I want to do this part alone. I won't be long,” she assured, her eyes looking over Twilight, Trixie, Spike, and Shining Armor.

“We'll be waiting for you down here, so have at it!” Shining said with a beaming smile, getting a determined nod from Sunset, before leaving the others behind.

Going up the stairs, the guards at the door let her pass without provocation, getting a small smile from Sunset as she entered the room Luna and Celestia were waiting in. Sunset quickly noticed an awkward feeling in the air, making her look between the two sisters.

Both of them were dressed for the occasion, with a matching set of red outfits, with hats that had white outlines on the rims. Judging by the way they were looking at each other when she entered, Sunset was under the impression that they were both trying to keep a conversation, and failing.

“Sunset?” Luna asked, pleasantly surprised, “Have you returned with your answer?” she added with a hopeful grin.

“Yes, but there's something I wanted to ask first,” she began, “It's about Tell Tale. Is he fine with becoming Celestia's knight?” she inquired, getting a considering look from Luna.

“He seemed … ambivalent,” she replied, sounding a little put off. Her eyes then widened upon hearing her tone. “I mean, we discussed this last week,” she admitted with a small blush, “He said he'd leave the choice up to you.”

“Last week?” Sunset asked, making her recall that Luna had foreseen Shadow Flare's return. “So, you're just going to give him over to Celestia?”

“I, that is...” Luna trailed off, blinking at Sunset's words. “You make is sound like I'm passing him off to her,” she said, sounding offended. “That's not the intention I was going for. My sister needs a knight too, after all.”

Those words made Sunset's eyes widen, her mind putting together how she could settle all this on her terms. She glanced to the side for a moment, asking herself if she was fine with this notion, before nodding.

“Well, if Celestia needs a knight, then let me be that knight,” she replied, getting shocked looks from her company. “I mean, if that's fine with you,” she added as she turned to Celestia.

“S-Sunset?” Luna asked, masking her emotions for a second as she considered her former student.

“Luna, I don't think it's fair to Tell Tale to just pass him off,” Sunset pointed out bluntly, making Luna glance to the side.

“Yes, you're right. I suppose I saw his ambivalence as acceptance.”

“Sunset,” Celestia began, coming closer, “May I ask why you would want to be my knight? My sister has helped you through so much. To just switch to the newest princess of the throne—“

“That's not what's happening,” Sunset replied, shaking her head defensively, “Luna's right. You need a knight. And I'm sure Tell Tale would be better for helping you settle in, but,” Sunset adopted a frustrated look. “I think I'd be better suited to be your knight than him.”

“What makes you think that?” Celestia asked, a curious glow in her eyes.

“You need a friend right now. Underneath all the power, the responsibilities, that's what is a knight is. A friend. And we're friends, right?” Sunset asked as she gave Celestia a smile, which the princess quickly mirrored.

Sunset then turned to Luna. “You told me that friendship is one of the greatest powers in Equestria. Well, I want to grant Celestia that strength.” And, help her reconnect with you. She thought to herself as Luna considered her words. She glanced to the side, lost in thought for several moments, before adopting a warm smile. She looked to Sunset, making the unicorn's heart skip a beat. She saw pride in Luna's eyes.

“I understand,” Luna said. “That, and I get the feeling you don't want Tell Tale slighted for your benefit.”

“I...” Sunset replied, suddenly recalling the weight around her neck, “I guess you're right.” She then looked between the two princesses. “So, is it alright?” she asked, and Luna eyed her for a moment, before looking to her sister. Their eyes met, and Luna gave her a small smile, and a nod.

“I see no reason to refuse,” Celestia replied, walking around Sunset, as if to appraise her, “In fact, I find the prospect quite welcome.” She then closed her eyes, before looking out to the window, as if trying to let go of some unseen weight. She then looked back to Sunset, a composed look in her eyes. “Sunset Shimmer, I accept you as my Knight. From this day forward, you are to be addressed as Lady, and I grant you the suffix of 'The Loyal',” she said, giving her a big grin.

“Lady Sunset Shimmer, The Loyal,” Sunset said out loud, liking the sound of it. She then blinked at Celestia's silence. “Wait, that's all there is to it?” she asked, sounding a little disappointed, which got a chuckle from the princesses.

“There is a ceremony for friends and family,” Luna began, “as well as a public announcement, but those are more for show.”

“It was this simple when we started long ago,” Celestia pointed out, looking to her sister, “and I suspect that hasn't changed,” she added, getting a nod from Luna. Celestia's grin then started to simmer, before her ears fell. “You, are my second knight,” she said, a somber feeling hanging in the air following her words. There was silence held for several moments, and Sunset had a feeling that it had more to do with whom the previous knight had been, rather than the large gap of time between the two.

“Sunset,” she continued, “a dear friend of ours once told us that a good leader keeps someone close to them. Someone who isn't afraid to tell them they're wrong. When we became princesses, we followed her words, and created the station of knight you are now a part of.” She then looked to her sister, “Luna's knight was Clover the Clever. It was adorable how Luna used to tease her,” she said getting a small blush, a fond look in Luna's eyes, “I, my knight...” a pained look flashed across her face, making Sunset take a hesitant step forward. She wanted to assure the princess, but she felt there was a gap between them, a large one, born of a pain in the princesses' heart that couldn't be breached.

Well, that wasn't entirely true. There was one entity out there that managed to breach it.

“Do you think Shadow Flare is still out there?” Sunset asked, making Celestia's ears perk up.

“Flare?” she asked, her somber mood lightening.

“She's in the Realm of Dreams now,” Luna said in a guarded tone, “She hides from me, but I'm certain she's out there.”

“Celestia, I can't really help you with what happened long ago,” Sunset admitted, quite certain it was a task she was poorly equipped for, “But, I can help you with what happens tomorrow.” She then gave Celestia a determined smile, “And helping you, helps Luna. Helping the both of you, helps Equestria. Helps my friends, and family.” Her ears then dropped as she gave Celestia a timid look, “So please, try not to wander into the past. As long as you're walking on the path forward, I'll be there to stand by your side.”

Celestia had a conflicted look, her eyes darting between Sunset and Luna for a moment, before she eyed the ground. She stood quietly for a moment, before taking a deep breath.

“I ... shall try. Since you're promising to be by my side, I promise to keep my head forward,” she then gave Sunset a delicate smile, “Stewing over the past has been something of a habit for myself and Flare, what with being trapped in...” Celestia then shook her head, “But that is in the past. Thank you Sunset.” There was a small pause between them, before Celestia adopted a small look of wonder, “I must say, this was not how I was expecting my day to go when I awoke this morning.”

“Yeah, you and me both,” Sunset grumbled, getting a small laugh from Celestia.

“Well Sunset, you've surprised me,” Luna said, a proud look in her eyes, “I'm happy with your decision, and as I said, I'll support it fully.” She then gave Sunset a smug look. “Being a knight is no walk in the park, but I'm sure you'll manage just fine.” She then looked to Celestia, and their eyes met. "You're quite fortunate, dear sister," she added, a small note of envy in her voice. Celestia considered her words for a moment, before looking to her knight.

“So, when would be a good time to do the public knighting?”

“Umm,” Sunset replied with a sheepish smile, “Can we put that off till after new years? I want to tell my friends and family first.”

“That is certainly fine with me,” Celestia replied.

“Indeed,” Luna added, “After all, tomorrow is Hearth's Warming, and tonight there is a feast to be had. Which I do believe is currently waiting for our arrival. So, shall we?” she asked, getting a nod from her company, before they descended to the banquet hall.

“So, Sunset,” Celestia began, adopting a coy smile, “Did Shining put my advice to good use?” Sunset immediately found herself blushing, getting a hearty chuckle from the princess. “I suppose he did.”

“You ponies and your interloping,” Sunset mumbled under her breath, her red deepening as Celestia started to let out a hearty laugh. All eyes were on the princess as they entered the hall, and Celestia didn't mind. With a subtle nod, Sunset split off from the sisters, returning to her friends, who were waiting eagerly for her.

Sunset hesitated, the entire day flashing before her eyes for a moment, before adopting a determined smile. Today was loaded with surprises that left her emotions all over the place, and now it was winding down, her direction clear. There was news to be spread, and this time, she'd be the one giving out the surprise.

Indeed, it proved to be very satisfying.

The rest of the night flew by at a startling pace. Feasting with her friends. Singing carols, poorly, with Shining Armor. Becoming better acquainted with Applejack and Rainbow Dash, who totally wasn't Shadow Blitz. Seeing Luna and Celestia smile, the shadows between them temporarily dispelled by the festive air, brought a smile to Sunset's face as well. And as the night slowly winded down, Sunset found herself looking forward, wondering where she'd be next Hearth's Warming Eve, and just how far her relationship with Shining, and Celestia would grow. She then adopted a fiery stare. It would go as far as she reached.

I wonder … if it'd be alright to bring Shining to dinner tomorrow...

~~~~~~~~~~

It was early morning on the third day of the new year.

Outside the castle gates, a stallion of note approached, eager to see how the castle fared while he was on vacation with his daughter. As Sir Tell Tale reached the gates, he let out an annoyed sigh. The castle looked completely the same. He had to admit, he was a little disappointed. However that feeling was short-lived, being replaced with pride at how quickly the damages he'd heard about were repaired.

Entering the intact courtyard, he pulled out a clip board and quill, eager to return to his duties, a mental itch that's been begging to be scratched since he left over a week prior. There was a pop, accompanied with a flicker of teal light, making the stallion turn to Sunset, several paces behind him, a flustered Captain of the Royal Guard at her side.

Tell Tale's eyes saw through them, easily putting together that their relationship had moved to the next level, making him conceal a smile, before giving Sunset his typical, collected look. She noticed him, a mixture of emotions flying through her eyes. One shined through, as always. Determination. The Captain glanced between Sunset and Tell Tale, giving Sunset a small nod, which she answered with a smile, before he headed to the castle to tackle his own duties.

Sunset said nothing as she approached the bookkeeper. She was different from when he last saw her. Was it the gemstone hanging from her neck? No, it was something deeper than that. She's finally found closure with her past.

“Well met, Lady Shimmer,” he said, the vaguest hint of pride in his voice, making her pause for a moment, before giving him a smug grin.

“Good morning, Tell Tale.” As usual, she avoided using his title, which he has long since expected from her.

“Something about you is different, did you get your mane cut?” he asked in a neutral tone, but she could tell he was teasing her.

“I guess you could say I've changed,” she said, rolling her eyes, before walking a step past him, “It's been a whole year since you were last here after all, I'm practically a different mare now. Now, let's get going, wouldn't want to keep the princesses waiting, right?” she asked, glancing to him, making him nod.

“As you-” before he could finish, she was gone, teleporting in a flash, undoubtedly to the library where Luna, and likely Celestia were. Her actions got a small chuckle out of him as he shook his head, continuing forward as he mused over the young knight. “You know what they say, Sunset,” he said more to himself, “Some things, never change.”

Author's Note

Another story completed! I should write short ones more often.

Was it enjoyable?

I had this story conceptualized ever since finishing Midnight's Radiance, but I was apprehensive about writing it. There were a lot of things I wanted to touch on following shadow's flare, and a number of them were cut out to keep the focus from wondering too far.

Those missing bits will be covered in Obsidian's Heart, whenever I get to writing that.

So, the alpha ship for the Trioverse has set sail. It'll probably be awhile before I tackle the beta ship...

Anywho, was it an enjoyable read? I hope so, writing it proved far more stressful than I thought it'd be. :twilightblush:

So, thanks for reading!