Sunset Shimmer walked down the halls of Canterlot High, her mind elsewhere as her friends gossiped about the day's events. She piped in from time to time, but it only came out as forced; it wasn’t like her and her friends knew that. As they walked the rest of the way, passed all the oncoming traffic, and people rushing to get their belongings from their locker in order to get home sooner. They made their way out of the school building, stopping before the steps to confront their friend about her odd behavior.
“Sunset, dear. Is something the matter, you’re not acting like your usual self?” Asked Rarity, putting a hand on Sunset’s shoulder in concern. Sunset, in return, just looked into her friend's eyes for a moment before staring off to the side.
“Come on Sunset, you’re in good company. If there’s anythin’ funny going on, you can tell us.” Applejack added, giving her friend a soft smile.
Sunset looked at Applejack for a moment, and then to the rest of her friends. They all had the same concern looks on their faces. They were waiting in anticipation for Sunset to answer their pleas, hoping that they could do something to remedy her sorrows.
“It’s nothing girls, really. I just need some alone time, is all. I promise I’ll tell you tomorrow after school, is that okay?”
Sunset waited for a reply, but was greeted with Pinkie Pie’s usual response towards promises. “Only if you Pinkie Promise!” The frizzled haired girl bounced around Sunset, making sure that her words reached Sunset’s ears.
Sunset let out a small sigh, “fine. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” That little song and dance always made Sunset feel slightly embarrassed, but she endured it for her friends sake.
“Okie doki loki, we’re holding you to it.” Pinkie Pie replied, joining in with her friends as they began to walk down the steps of Canterlot High.
As they were about to reach the end of the steps, Fluttershy spoke up. “Just remember Sunset, we care for you, and you can always come to us if you need anything.”
“I know, it’s just… Thanks guys, it means a lot that you care for me so much. I just need to handle this on my own, if you understand.”
Sunset stopped once again, this time it was Rainbow to speak. “It’s no problem at all, we totally understand, just make sure that you get this done, and come to us if anything bad happens.”
“I will Dash, thanks.” Sunset waved goodbye to her friends before she began her walk home. She lived in an apartment complex not to far from Canterlot High. She didn’t have family here, and she was technically an adult, so she had no problem fending for herself.
The walk was a little comforting, it still didn’t get her mind off what was troubling her. It clouded her head like a particularly bad stormy day, bringing her emotions to the lower end of the emotional spectrum. She kicked a rock across the street, anything to just get the subject off her mind, but it was futile; it was there to stay.
As she made her way up the apartment stairs to her room number, she took a key out of her jacket pocket, and opened the door to her domicile. Entering and dropping her bags on a couch she had in the main room of the living quarters. She sat down next to it, and let out a long, drawn out sigh of relief to be home. She then groaned as she realized that she had a large amount of homework to take care off. “Whatever, I’ll do that later…”
She made her way to her room, saying to herself along the way. “I got some things to take care of first.” As she entered her room, she rummaged through her bookcase looking for a particularly important book. She gave a triumphant, “Aha” as she found what she was looking to find.
She sat on her bed and opened the book. It was the one she used to use to get a hold of her old mentor, Celestia. The wave of nostalgia already hitting her hard. As she grabbed a pen off the desk next to her; she began to write.
* * * *
Dear Princess Twilight,
It’s been a while since I messaged you, but I’m afraid this letter is not for you. Before you continue reading this, I must ask of you, bring this letter to Princess Celestia. Do not read the contents of this letter, for I wish only for Celestia to see them.
Dear Princess Celestia,
I Really Miss you… I know you may not want to hear from me, especially after all I’ve done. It’s just, I’m so very sorry for what I’ve done, I apologize for being so selfish, I know you knew I wasn’t ready to be a princess. I know you knew that it was best for me to learn how to befriend other ponies, and you know what? I have five wonderful friends now, and I’m making more!
Celestia, I write to you for more than just apologizing, I also wanted to thank you for all the time we spent together, it really means a lot to me. So much so, that I’ve been really homesick lately. Celestia, I want to return, if only a little bit, I can’t leave my friends here by themselves now, can I?
Expect to see me in the next couple of days, I should have made my journey to Canterlot by then. You can lecture me, you can punish me, the alternative of never seeing you again is far worse than anything you can throw at me…
Your former student,
Sunset Shimmer
* * * *
Sunset laid the book on her bed, tears in her eyes, and a fist clenched around her pen. She set it down on the desk, before punching her pillow, and plomping her face right into it. She let her tears be soaked into the absorbent sheet, letting her pent up sorrows drain out.
She let this go on for another minute, or so, before sitting up again. She wiped her eyes, and turned her pillow around. That way it wasn’t soaked when she laid her head back down. This time she wasn’t face first, she stared up at the ceiling, taking deep breaths, and internally counting to ten to calm herself down.
It was then that she realized that she still had homework to do. With another groaning complaint, she went up to receive her backpack from the the couch she laid it on, and returned to her room to do her work.
After finishing her homework, she looked out her apartment window. The sun was setting, and it was cascading beautiful shadows onto the streets of the town she lived in. She sighed as it reminded her even more of Celestia, but she soon smiled as she remembered she would be visiting her soon, even if it wasn’t on the best of terms.
Making a quick costume change into her pajamas, and eating a quickly made microwave dinner. She made her way into bed, looking to the ceiling once more before passing out into a somber rest. Her dreams filled with ponies that she once knew from her time in Equestria.
Sunset Shimmer woke up to a single ray of sunlight hitting her eyes, while she laid on her side. She groaned with agitation before sitting up in her bed, letting out a yawn and stretching her aching back. She looked to the side to see that the book she wrote in the day before was glowing, a message from Twilight she knew.
She went over to grab the book off the desk, and opened it up, reading the contents with a light smile on her face.
* * * *
Dear Sunset Shimmer,
I’m glad to hear from you, even if it seems to be of a more urgent matter. I’m also thrilled to hear that you want to speak with Celestia, and as a good friend, I have already sent the letter her way. It’s handy having such a good assistant around when you need him.
Yours truly,
Princess Twilight Sparkle
* * * *
Sunset sighed when she read the name Celestia. She, however, didn’t let that ruin her day like yesterday. She got up and went through her morning rituals, making herself tidy and fresh for school today. When she finished, she grabbed her belongings, and made her way out of her apartment.
The walk to school was calm, mellow, just like it always was in the mornings. It was truly a beauty, the sun left a wondrous glow in the air, and the birds were giving a majestic tune. It reminded Sunset of the mornings of Equestria, leaving her to wonder if this world was so much different from hers?
When she got to school, it was just a typical day. Nothing of particular note went on, except maybe for Pinkie Pie’s constant barrage of questions. She knew the girl always wanted to know what was going on, but she needed to be patient until after school for Sunset to tell her why she was so down the day before.
When the time did come, however, they were all standing by the statue outside of school. Which, to their knowledge, meant serious business.
“Girls, I know you’ve all been waiting patiently all day for me to explain why I was so depressed yesterday. And to that, I thank you. Even if a certain person kept bombarding me with constant questions.” Sunset gave a slight glare at her exuberant friend.
“I just wanted to know!” Pinkie shouted with a pout on her face.
Applejack turned to her, “We all wanted to know Pinkie; we were all going to hear eventually.”
Pinkie still gave a pout, however. Sunset giggled a little before continuing. “ Yes, I have kept you waiting in concern a little too long haven’t I? Anyway, the reason why I’ve been bummed out lately, is because I’ve been feeling a little homesick.” She looked at her friends questioning stares. “Okay, maybe really homesick.”
Fluttershy went up to Sunset. “Oh, you poor thing. That must have been tearing you up inside, I could never imagine what it would be like to leave the world I knew my whole life…”
Rarity piped in. “Yeah, it must have been a complete travesty on your spirit. Well, Sunset, I’m terribly sorry to hear that you’ve been feeling this way lately. You know, if you wanted to, you could always visit your old world?”
Sunset eyes popped open for a moment. “Rarity… that’s actually the reason why we’re here. I want to return to my home world for the weekend, and be back before school starts next week. We do have a three-day weekend so I should have plenty of time to spend reminiscing in Equestria.”
All her friends gave content smiles, with just a little bit of concern for her well being hidden behind.
Rainbow spoke up. “Sounds like it’ll be awesome Sunset. Hey, do you think you could bring back a souvenir? “ Rainbow Dash beamed with anticipation.
“Sorry Dash, I can’t. Anything with magical properties from Equestria could have negative repercussions on this world.”
Rainbow, in return, gave a pout and a sigh. “Okay, I understand.” That still didn’t help her get over her sour mood. Her arms were crossed, and she still held that nasty pouty face. That, however, changed when she noticed all her friends moving towards Sunset to give her a farewell hug. Sighing, she joined in.
As they all wrapped their arms around their friend, Rarity spoke. “You take care now, and make sure to tell us all about your trip when you get back.”
Sunset nodded to her as they broke their embrace. “I will, I Pinkie Promise.” She went through the hand motions before making her way towards the statue. She turned her head over her shoulder to look at them one last time. They were waving goodbye, and had huge smiles on their faces. “Goodbye, for now…” She waved at them and went straight into the portal that was on the face of the statue.
“I’m gonna miss her…” Sniffed Pinkie, as she blowed her nose into a tissue.
“Uh, Pinkie? You do know she’s coming back, right?” Asked Applejack, concerned for her friend.
“I know, it’s just… I’ll miss her so much!” Yelled Pinkie in reply. She was now sobbing into a bundle of tissues. She then, suddenly, stopped and had her cheerful demeanor again. “I know! I’ll start on her, welcome back to our world party!”
Everyone just rolled their eyes at Pinkie. “What?” She asked looking at their faces.
Meanwhile, Sunset was having a completely different experience. She was surrounded by a blinding rainbow of colors. Her body twisting and turning; contorting, and contracting. She felt like she was about to hurl, but couldn’t tell where her mouth was.
This seemed to drag on for eternity, but in truth, it only lasted a couple of moments. As soon as it begun, it was over. As she fell out on the other side, her eyes were closed. She slowly began to open them as she started to find her balance, and grasp on the world around her.
With her eyes now fully opened, she gazed at her surroundings. Everything seemed to be made out of crystal, it was the castle the Twilight told her about over their letters. Though, it was a lot bigger than how she described it. “Wow…” She said as she began to trot forward. That was, until, she fell face first on the cold, hard floor below. “Ouch…”
Standing up again, she said to herself. “Must not be used to walking on all fours, huh.” She slightly giggled. Looking at a particularly reflective part of the wall, she noticed her appearance. It was the same as before, not a single hair changed since she left this world. She also looked towards her head, noticing her horn. “I missed you old buddy.” There were slight tears in her eyes, she was so happy to be back after all these years.
“Uh, Sunset Shimmer… Is that you?” A familiar voice came from behind her. She whirled around to see her dear friend, Twilight Sparkle. “Oh… Twilight, I forgot to add in the beginning of that letter that I was gonna be visiting soon. Hehe, well, surprise.” She rubbed the back of her head with her forehoof.
“Oh, no. It’s no problem at all, in fact, it’s a pleasant surprise.” Twilight chirped as she made her way towards her friend. “So I’m guessing this has something to do with the other part of that letter, the one addressed to Celestia?”
Sunset Shimmer looked off to the side, giving a small sigh. “Yeah, that is exactly why I’m here.”
Twilight put a hoof on her friend's shoulder, bringing her into a warm embrace. “It’s okay Sunset, whatever it is, I’m sure it will be just fine.” Twilight nuzzled Sunset lightly.
“Thanks…” Sunset replied solemnly.
“Say.” Twilight began. “Do you mind talking about it over dinner? I’ll have some of the chefs cook us up something, what do you say?” Twilight left her embrace with her friend, and gave her a wide smile.
“That sounds great.” Sunset smiled back. “Also, nice place you got here.
Twilight blushed humbly. “Oh, do you think so? I don’t think it’s that special, it’s just a castle.”
Sunset slightly giggled, and rolled her eyes. “Yeah, your castle - your castle made out of crystal.”
Twilight slightly giggled back. “I suppose you’re right.”
They walked through the halls, talking and catching up on the time they’ve missed out on each other. Twilight asked nicely for the chefs to cook up some carrot soup, and cucumber sandwiches as they passed the dining hall. They took a seat at a small round table, perfect for two ponies.
There, they continued to speak, until the chefs presented them with their food. “Thanks, you are dismissed.” Said Twilight as her chefs bowed to her.
Sunset watched them walk off, and then turned to Twilight. “Do you ever get used to it?” She waved her hoof in a motion that made Twilight examine her entire castle. “Do you ever get used to this type of life?”
Twilight thought for a moment, and the answered her friends question. “No, not really. I’m still very knew to this whole, being a princess business, but I’m making the most of it. It was kinda sudden if you ask me, one moment I’m a unicorn, and then the next.” She fluttered her wings. “I’m not.”
Sunset nodded in understanding, using her magic to levitate her sandwich towards her. She took a bite and then swallowed. “I can tell you one thing, when you’re in the human world, you will always miss the use of magic.” She took another bite.
“I know how you feel, I felt like I was seriously handicapped when I couldn’t use magic. Growing up learning all about it, and using it for everyday life. It just… becomes a part of you.” Twilight took a sip from her soup.
Sunset looked to Twilight with her eyes yearning for acceptance. “Twilight, do you mind if I tell you why I sent that letter to Celestia?”
“That’s why we’re here, after all. Anything you want to say, I’m completely open ears.” Twilight gave her friend a comforting smile, stopping her indulgence of her soup.
Sunset sighed before continuing. “Twilight, I’ve been… I’ve been feeling homesick. As you could probably already tell.” She stopped for a moment to make she her friend didn’t interrupt her. “It’s not that I’m just homesick… I miss the old days with Celestia. I miss the times we’ve spent together, I miss looking up at the stars with her… I especially miss the times I’ve spent in her study, drinking a warm cup of hot chocolate beside her.”
Sunset cast her head downward. “Twilight, the reason why I’ve sent that letter, is because I want to visit Celestia. I want to formally apologize for my actions, and I just want to repent all that I’ve done in my past.” She looked back up to her friend. “I just want to make things right again, you understand?”
Twilight moved closer to Sunset, and wrapped her in a even warmer embrace from before. “I completely understand Sunset, if I was in your position, I think I’d do the same.” Sunset let out a small cry, putting her head in Twilight’s shoulder.
After a moment, they left their embrace, and Sunset whipped her eyes. “Thanks Twilight… Do you think we could visit her tomorrow, or the day after? I can only stay here for the weekend since, you know, I got school next week.”
Twilight lightly giggled. “Yes, I’m sure I can spare up the time to take you to Canterlot. In the meantime.” Twilight looked out the window, noticing that the sun was going down. The town of Ponyville started to pack it in for the day. “I think it’s best we get our sleep, we do seem to have a long day tomorrow, don’t we.”
Sunset nodded her head in agreement. “Yeah.”
They got up from their table, the chefs coming over to clean up the the slight mess they made. Mostly on Twilight’s part. They made their way down the halls until Twilight showed Sunset a bedroom she could stay in. Sunset said her goodnight's, before closing the door, and situating herself in her bed.
Laying on her side, she looked out the window and saw the last of the sunlight dip below the horizon. “Goodnight Celestia. “ She said. “I’ll see you in the morning...”
Sunset squirmed in her bed; tossing and turning. She felt the warmth of the morning sun bask her with its brilliance, yet she didn’t want to wake. Her eyes still felt heavy, and she was having a particularly lovely dream. Unfortunately, like all good things, it had to came to an end.
The door to her room creaked open, and a familiar face walked in. A short, yet stubby dragon made his way into the room, hopping up onto the bed, and poking at Sunset’s side. “Hey, Sunset! It’s time to get up, Twilight sent me to get you out of bed.”
Sunset made a tossing motion, a bit of annoyance in her facial features. “Uh, Equestria to Sunset, time to wake up.” When this didn’t work, Spike resorted to drastic measures. He grabbed the blanket that laid over Sunset, and ripped it off, exposing her to the elements. Next he started to jump up and down on the bed shouting, “Sunset, it’s morning! Time to get up!”
When he was stopped by Sunset’s magic paralyzing him mid jump, he refrained from shouting. “Alright Spike, I’m up, I’m up.” She groggily got out of bed, and set spike down on the floor. “Besides, I can’t keep this day waiting too long, now can I?”
“Yeah, Twilight told me all about. I got to take care of the castle while she’s gone.” He held a fist to his chest, and gave a proud “Hmph.”
“I’m she she’ll appreciate it, Spike.” Sunset giggled a little, before making her way towards the door, Spike shortly behind her. As she opened it, she made her way down the halls of the castle, Spike guiding her as she didn’t know which way lead where.
It was a pretty pleasant trip, Sunset might add. She got to see the brilliance of the castle, and have a friendly conversation with Spike. Mostly catching up with each other, and Spike going on about comics and the like. While in the human world, Sunset had actually grown to like that media, so her and Spike hit it off in that category.
After they made it into one of the many libraries - come to find out, this was Twilight’s favorite - Sunset spoke to her friend. “Good morning, Twilight. Sleep well?
Twilight brought herself to look at Sunset; she was completely engrossed in a book about dragon culture. The subject didn’t have much substance, do to the lack of exploration into dragon culture, but Twilight found it interesting nonetheless. “As a matter a fact, I did sleep well. How about you, Sunset?”
Sunset cringed just a bit, remembering her not so pleasant dream. “It could have… been better.” Sunset walked up to Twilight, sitting beside her to take a look at what she was reading.
“Sorry to hear…” Twilight replied feeling sympathy for her dear friend. “Hey! If it makes you feel any better, I have some nice pot of coffee over there.” She pointed her hoof towards another table, a coffee pot containing the dark nectar lied waiting for consumption.
“Oh, you have no idea.” Sunset instantly brightened when she heard about the coffee. “That drink is a lifesaver.” Sunset poured herself a cup, adding some hazelnut creamer, and two packets of sugar. She then walked back to sit beside Twilight again. “Thanks, Twilight.”
“No problem, anything for a friend.” Twilight then giggled as she saw Sunsets face light up with satisfaction after taking her first sip. “Like it?”
Sunset simply replied with a euphoric, “Mmmhmm.”
“So.” Twilight began. “Our ride to Canterlot takes off in about an hour. If it’s not to much to ask, but we kinda need to make our way to the station. Don’t worry, though, you can bring the coffee with you. I’ll just put the cup in my saddlebags when you’re done.”
“Thanks Twilight, and it’s no problem. “Sunset replied after taking another sip. They then got up, their bags on their shoulders. Twilight taking the liberties to supply a bag for her, filled with typical travel supplies.
The walk through town was relaxing, the morning sun beaming down filled the already chipper town with more warmth. They made pleasantries with a couple ponies along the way, Sunset perplexed by the similarities to them, and the students of Canterlot High. Shrugging her shoulders, and simply saying to herself mentally that they were just the pony counterparts, she moved on.
They made their way up to the train station, boarding the train, and finding a place to sit. Finding a cozy corner near the back of the train, they let their hooves rest. When the conductor pony came by, they showed him their tickets, and he punched it. Validating their passage to their destination.
“Sunset?” Twilight tried to get her friends attention.
Sunset was staring out the window as the train began to move, not paying the slightest attention to her traveling buddy. After a couple more tries, Twilight managed to get her attention, and she turned to her. “Yes, Twilight.”
“Are you feeling okay, Sunset? I mean, about this; you seem a little nervous.” Twilight gave a look of concern for her friend, waiting on edge for a reply.
“Yeah.... though, my stomach feels like it’s about to explode, along with my heart.” Sunset cast her head downward.
Twilight gave a frown, feeling sad for Sunset. She then scooted closer to her, giving her a hug, and a nuzzle for support. “You know, you’re very brave for doing this. If I was in your position, I’m pretty sure I’d feel the same way.”
As they departed from their embrace, Sunset replied to Twilight. “Thanks, Twilight. That means a lot to me. I know it’s not easy, but… this needs to be done. I need to put this past of mine to rest, and I need to repent what I’ve done to the one I betrayed. The one who I cared deeply for, yet still found it in myself to shove away.” Sunset looked out the window again.
Twilight didn’t quite know how to respond to that. She just simply put a wing over Sunset, and gave her a hug of sympathy and support. Looking to the roof of the train-cabin that they currently occupied; contemplation of deep thought crossing her features.
As Sunset starred out to the land of Equestria, she found it in herself to smile. Thinking to herself. “Equestria, you’re so beautiful.” She looked towards the mountains of Canterlot, and the lofty fields that separated them from each other. “So magical, yet so simple all at the same time. I truly do miss seeing you every time I wake up in the morning."
Sunset slumped back in her seat, Twilight removing her wing from around her as she entered a new plain of concentration. A plain which only she seemed to be able to reach. Still, Sunset took little notice of this. Her reminiscing on the times she traveled across this land, flooded her mind like the dam just broke to pieces Scattering its watery remains across the mindscape of Sunset Shimmer.
Sunset entered another wave of thought “Maybe, if things go right with my meeting with Celestia, I could visit here more often. I could never leave my friends at Canterlot High, that’s for sure, but I don’t think they’d mind much if I were to spend some weekends here from time to time. In fact, I think that’s exactly what I’ll do.” She closed her eyes, sighing in slight relief.
After a few moments with her eyes closed, she began to doze off just a bit, her fellow passenger unaware do to her current preoccupations.
Twilight, after letting go of her train of thought, looked towards her friend in hope to start up another conversation. This time, a less gloomy one. However, she was met with the light snores from Sunset, her mouth slightly open. “Even after she drank coffee this morning, she still found it in herself to find some rest! Wow, she must be really caught up in all this. Poor, Sunset.”
Twilight then let herself lean back, resting comfortably on the trains seat. “Seeing her like that, has actually made me kind of sleepy, too. I guess napping our way to Canterlot shouldn’t be that bad, right. Eh, oh well. It does seem relaxing.”
Twilight shut her eyes, leaning on her friend next to her. The look they gave off from sleeping on each other was so adorable, it could have killed a lesser pony.
* * * *
The day was running it’s course; the evening sun waning on the edge of the horizon. As the train started to come to a screeching halt, Sunset began to open her weary eyes. As she opened them, she was greeted by the sight of the city of, Canterlot. A place she once called home.
Looking to her side, she saw her already awake friend grabbing their saddle bags from the train's compartments up above. “Hey, Twilight… How long was I out?” Sunset said sluggishly, wiping at her eyes.
“I’d say about three hours, maybe a little less.” Twilight levitated Sunsets traveling gear, as she made her way down the hall. “Well, we should be on our way.”
Sunset smiled, this was the day she was going to repent her sins to the one she so mercilessly abandoned. “Yeah, I’ll be there in just a sec.” Standing up on her hooves, stretching for just a moment. She made her way beside her friend, exiting the train while giving the conductor their goodbyes.
The breeze that blowed through the busy city of Canterlot only added to the goosebumps that the two mares felt. The city always seemed to bring out some child like curiosity and adventure to any who entered. For those who lived there, it never seemed to fade away. Looking around, seeing all the different shades of ponies and shops, it really brought Sunset back. It’s like her homesickness was fading bit by bit, slowing starting to disappear. Replacing itself with that same glee she had the very first time she visited the city - the very first time she was able to call herself, “The Princess's Faithful Student.”
“It’s good to be back.” Sunset said impulsively, unaware of the noise that came from her mouth.
“Yeah, I do miss this place from time to time.” Twilight took a deep breath, and turned to her friend. “I grew up here in Canterlot, in fact, my parents still live here to this day.”
Shaking her head a bit, realizing that she just spoke aloud her thoughts, Sunset turned to Twilight. “I’d like to meet them someday.”
“I’m sure you’ll like them, and vice versa. They’re definitely the best parents a mare could ask for.” Twilight sighed at the pleasant memories she had of both her parents
“I bet they are.” Sunset started. “Unfortunately, the memory train can wait. Right now, we kinda need to get to the Castle. I’m sure the princess is just eager to see me, after all, you did send a letter to her.” Sunset finished her statement half-sarcastically.
“Oh, don’t worry, Sunset. I’m sure things will turn out okay.” Twilight put her hoof on Sunset’s shoulder, reassuring her of her resolve.
“Thanks, Twilight. I needed that boost.”
After Twilight put her hoof back on the ground with the rest of her limbs, they began their trot to Canterlot Castle. Looking at the scenery along the way.
It was when they approached the front door to the castle, that the guards saluted the Princess of Friendship. Opening the door for her, and her special guest. They said their thanks, and made their way inside.
Sunset looked around the place, taking in the sight as if it was the first time she'd been there. “It’s… larger than I remember it being.”
“Yeah, kinda glad my castle isn’t this big, I still have trouble navigating it sometimes.” Twilight added, looking around the same as Sunset.
“I’d bet.” Sunset shook her head, before looking back at her friend. “Are you sure it’s okay to just, waltz on in. Isn’t she, like, busy or something? I know she used to throw day courts.”
Twilight waved her hoof passively. “There’s no need to worry about that. Day court usually ends earlier than this, and if my memory serves correctly. This time of day she usually returns to her chambers to do some paperwork.”
“If you say so.” Sunset carried on, trusting in her friends answer to her previous question.
They walked down the halls of the castle, Sunset gloomily thinking of all the worse scenarios that could come out of this meeting. She shivered from the tension that almost seemed to divide her in two, shaking her head to and fro every couple of moments. It kinda frightened Twilight a little, but she just dismissed it as nervousness
Reaching the doors to the throne room, Sunset let out the biggest sigh she had yet. “Well… here we are. The promised land, the time that I’ve been anticipating, and just maybe the death of me.”.
“Don’t say such things, Sunset. Celestia would never think the thought, she’s smarter and much wiser than that.” Twilight gave Sunset a stern look. To her relief, it had some effect.
“I suppose, still doesn’t make my heart throb any less.” Sunset channeled the magical energy in her horn. Grabbing hold of the doors before her. “Still, I can't delay this any longer.”
The doors to the throne room slowly opened, bit by bit, more of the light that shone through got through the crack Sunset was making. After what seemed like an eternity to the mare, the doors were fully opened, the guards that were on the other side parting for the guests to enter. As they entered the room, albeit at a snail's pace, due to Sunset’s uncertainty. Celestia looked down from her throne, taking notice of, Twilight.
“Twilight, what seems to be the special occasion?” Celestia asked her former faithful student, before noticing the mare that followed right next to her. “Oh.” Celestia cringed up a bit, not quite ready to have a chat with her yet. “It’s you… Sunset Shimmer.”
Sunset hid behind Twilight, just a bit, obscuring some of her figure. “H-Hello… Celestia. It’s, uh… Been a while, hasn’t it.” Sunset closed her eyes, her heart beating a million miles per second.
“Yes, quite a long while indeed.” Celestia closed her eyes, preparing herself for what she was about to do next. The solar monarch descended from her throne, making her way towards her former students. Making sure to keep a face that didn’t show her true emotions. When she was in speaking range, she told the guards. “You two, wouldn't mind if I asked you to escort us to my personal chambers. I need to have a long, and important talk with our guests her.” She turned to Sunset. “Especially you, Sunset Shimmer.”
Sunset squeaked, thinking to herself. “This isn’t going well at all, she’s going to banish me, or punish me severely. I just know it.”
Twilight taking notice of Celestia and the guards leaving the throne room, she nudged Sunset to get her attention. “Come on, we have to follow her.” Sunset just shivered in fright, her legs moving on their own command.
“So this is it. This is how Sunset Shimmer leaves existence. Maybe I shouldn't have come here, after all?” Sunset followed Celestia and the two guards, alongside Twilight. Her head cast down, just like her spirit.
It was like she was walking to her grave, The River Styx waiting eagerly to devour her soul. Casting her to the deepest pits of Tartarus, a place which Celestia probably thinks she deserves. Sunset shuddered, all the thoughts of what was gonna happen to her just wouldn’t leave her worrying mind. It was like reliving the worst Nightmares she’d ever had.
As Sunset looked up to see where they were at present, she was greeted with the front of Celestia’s chambers. The golden sun insignia - one that matched her cutie mark - emblazoned on the doors, like the representation of the holy divine.
“Well, here we are.” Sunset said quietly to herself, too quietly for anypony else to hear.
As the guards opened the doors, Celestia thanking them for their service. She turned to both Sunset and Twilight. “I hope you don’t mind, Twilight, but I would like to talk to Sunset alone. Can you go take her stuff to a guest room, please. I’ll make sure the staff keep you company while we’re busy.”
Sunset Shimmer gulped.
“It’s no problem, Celestia. I’ll make sure everything is in order.” Twilight smiled at her former teacher, and fellow princess, before making her depart.
As she left, Celestia turned to Sunset. “Come in, please. We’ve got a lot to catch up on.”
“Y-Yes, princess.” Sunset Spurted out, before making her way into the chambers.
Celestia took a seat on the floor, the cushions that lay there giving her a comfortable resting spot. She pointed to a pair of cushions parallel to her. “Come, have a seat over there. I promise, they’re quite comfy.”
Sunset nodded her head hesitantly, making her way towards the cushions. As she got there, she plopped down on them, her legs no longer being able to carry her weight.
“Would you like a cup of tea?” Asked Celestia, currently in the middle of making herself something to drink.
"N-No thank you, Princess." Sunset spurted out.
Blending the herbs around flawlessly, Celestia said. “Suit yourself.” After she finished making herself a cup of warm, herbal tea, she spoke again. “How have you been?”
This question startled Sunset, fully expecting to start this conversation with a scolding. “I’m, uh. Doing okay, I guess, but why did you ask me that question? Aren’t you gonna lay into me with anger, or talk about my punishment or something?”
Celestia took another sip of her tea. “I simply wanted to know how you were doing, I don’t want to get into any drama at the beginning of conversations. It always sours the rest of the pleasantries.”
“I-I see. Well, how have you been, princess.” Sunset asked her like she was trying to defuse a bomb. Unsure where this conversation was going to end up, sweat leaking down from her brow.
“I’ve been better, relations with neighboring kingdoms are getting a little heated. For some reason the griffins are starting to put embargos on some of their trading allies; I’m sure I can handle the situation, but it’s probably not going to be pretty, to say the least.”
Celestia then tilted her head to the side, “So, how is your other world? I heard many stories from Twilight about her adventures over there.”
Sunset lightened up just a little bit. “Oh, it’s actually pretty great. Technology is far ahead of Equestria’s, and I have the five greatest friends you could ask for. School is a bit annoying, though.”
“That’s good to hear, friendship is what I wanted for you most, after all.” Celestia took the rest of her drink down. “I’m glad to see you finally fulfilled that gap in your life.”
“Yeah… Celestia, about when I was your student.” When she noticed that the princess didn’t stop her, she continued. “I wasn’t the greatest to you. I disobeyed your orders, I purposely used my title to get what I wanted. I even tried to push you away, so I could become better than you. Because to me, it wasn’t about learning, it was about power - it was about how much I could control, and how much I could take.”
Sunset took a deep breath. “Celestia, I’ve changed. I’ve learned from those mistakes, and I learned what truly matters in life, at least to me, that is. It is because of that, that I wanted to come to you to apologize, personally. Celestia, I’m so deeply sorry for what I’ve done.
Celestia moved closer to Sunset, wrapping a wing around her former student. This got a gasp out of her, and a light giggle from Celestia. “You’re forgiven, Sunset.”
Sunset looked up to the princess, eyes full of disbelief. “Are you kidding, after all I’ve done to hurt you, you’re just going to forgive me, just like that!”
“Yes, Sunset. You’ve seemed to have learned from your mistakes, and grown because of it. All I’ve ever wanted for you, was for you to be happy. To live a life with friends, and grow old being wiser because of it.”
Celestia signed. “When I was younger, I was much like you. Not paying attention to others, and using my inherent gifts to get want I wanted. I would walk over other ponies, thinking myself superior.” Celestia paused then continued. “When I hurt someone I cared for deeply, that’s when I learned from my mistakes, and grew because of it. Much like yourself, Sunset.”
Sunset was still stunned with disbelief, she had no idea just how much the princess had been through. It started with one tear, and then another. Soon there was a torrent of tears running down Sunset’s face like a waterfall. “Oh, Princess Celestia.”
Sunset jumped into Celestia’s embrace, soaking up her warmth like a towel designed for heat. Holding her so tightly, it started to restrict some of the princess’s breathing.
Celestia let out just a few tears of her own. “There, there Sunset. It’s okay, no need to cry so much over me. You’re just fine, and everything is over now.”
“I know, princess… It’s just - just so surreal. I thought I’d never see you again.” Sunset continued to rub herself as closely as she could to Celestia.
“So did I, Sunset. So did I.” Celestia then looked at the clock on the wall, seeing that it was late evening. Remembering what the two of them usually did during late evenings, the princess asked Sunset. “So, Sunset. How would you like a cup of hot chocolate.”
Sunset’s eyes shot open, remembering all the fond memories of savoring the confectionate drinks goodness. “I’d love that, Princess. I’d love that a lot.”
Smiling, The princess departed from their embrace, and began to make them a couple cups of hot coco. Spending the night chatting about their interests, and other things they missed while they were apart. Enjoying the time, like it was the last time they would ever see each other.
* * * *
Twilight waved goodbye to her friend, as she approached the mirror portal. “Goodbye Sunset, I’m so glad that you’ve come to visit, and that you and Celestia made up.”
“Yeah, I’m glad too, Twilight. You take care of yourself, I’ll be visiting soon.” Sunset waved her last goodbye before exiting into the mirror portal.
“I’ll be waiting, Sunset. I’ll be waiting.” Twilight turned to her adopted brother, and said to him. “So, how about we reorganize the library, it’s been at least a week since the last time we’ve done that.
Spike just groaned in disagreement. “Of course that’s the first thing you'd asked, why I’m I not surprised.”
Twilight just gave him a stern glare, but then stopped to let out a short giggle. “I promise, there’ll be a reward for you hard work.”
Spike raised his eyebrow. “Oh, yeah. Like what?”
“Like maybe I’d give you some lapiz lazuli to snack on, I know how much you like those.” Twilight stuck out her tongue.
“Deal!”
