Sunset Shimmer: Student of Magick

On a bright Saturday morning, Sunset Shimmer and Sweetie Belle sat together in their flat's kitchen. While the younger teen was bordering on being chipper - despite all the recent problems - Sunset was not in the same good humour.

Sweetie Belle regarded her friend with worry, visible even without magick. That was due to the dark bags under Sunset's eyes, the product of too many restless nights spent considering over and again the implications of what had happened.

At least Apple Bloom had kept her word as she defied her sister to continue spending time with Sweetie Belle at school. From what Sweetie Belle had told her, they mostly kept their activities discreet, though they were sitting together at lunch. Applejack had glared at them only on Monday, then ignored them the rest of the week. Apple Bloom had reported later that her sister said nothing about it.

Sunset had advised the girls not to antagonise Applejack. It would drive her further from accepting the situation, as well as making her more likely to blame Sweetie Belle for any negative attitude from Apple Bloom.

The Crusaders were as tight-knit as always; Apple Bloom and Scootaloo had even started inviting Button Mash to spend more time with them. Their motives were pure: Scootaloo had sent a message to Sunset promising not to tease the boy; they only wanted to become closer friends for Sweetie Belle's sake. It remained to be seen how such bonding would go; even as little as Sunset knew of him, she knew that there was no way he had much in common with the other two Crusaders. Of course, Sunset did not have much in common with most of her own friends - if they were all her friends - so that meant little.

The fact that things were going well for Sweetie Belle was a relief to Sunset, though it did not lessen the weight of her concerns about her own friends. As Rarity had taken her stance, so had Sunset. Any of her friends rejecting Sweetie Belle meant Sunset herself having to excise those individuals from her own life.

That was assuming none of the others had been lying to her about themselves. When they first became her friends, she had wondered if they really cared about her. She had eventually accepted that the human world was like Equestria, where things generally worked out in the end if one had the right intentions. Sweetie Belle's family had proved that to be a lie. The only person she could trust to tell her the truth anymore sat before her, but Sunset did not want to ask.

Without preamble - as though she had read Sunset's thoughts - Sweetie Belle asked, "You finally want to talk about my family, don't you?"

"Yes, but I'm also wondering if you know anything about why the other girls became my friends. I've been trying to find a good way to ask without making us both more depressed."

Sweetie Belle met Sunset's eyes. "As far as I know, Rarity's the only one that had ulterior motives for being your friend, or friends with anyone else. It's not like I've ever really been close to Rarity's friends until you came to live with us."

"How did she hide it so well? I lived with you guys for so long, but I never noticed anything. If your family only cares about their image, why were they letting me stay there? It just doesn't seem like they'd care that much."

"Well, at first, Rarity had to convince our parents to give you a chance. She said it was a 'calculated risk.' If you had changed, she'd be the person that gave you a chance, so she'd look really heroic and brave or something. Even if you went back to being mean, she wouldn't look that bad for trying. She'd be embarrassed, but she'd still be able to play the victim game."

Sunset nodded. "I guessed that much, but I'm talking about everything that came after that. The Equestrian magic picked her just like it did her counterpart. Maybe that's just because they're physically similar, but I think there has to be real generosity in her. Something good, even if it's buried."

"There is good in her. All of my family have good in them. When I was little, they were a lot nicer to me, and they'll do nice things for others, even if most of it's just to look better. The stuff you saw didn't really start until I got out of primary school.

"They could be really cold when I was little, but they didn't hit me or yell at me as much as they do now." She paused, adopting a small smile as she added, "Well, used to."

The smile did not last. "Remember when you got stabbed, and you, me, and Twilight all slept together with Rarity? She'd never let me do that unless it was for a sleepover, even when I was four, but she'd hold my hand when we went out, and she'd babysit me all the time. We used to get along most of the time, but that was when I'd just be her doll."

Sweetie Belle sighed. "I know she's really happy when she can give to others, but ... that's still mostly planned. She's not stupid. You've seen it, right? It's not like she calls attention to it, but she always plans how to be generous in a way that'll make her look as good as she can.

"I mean, making outfits for your band? All the stuff she designed for the Friendship Games? The decorations for your flat? If anyone asked you about it, you'd tell them who made it and how amazing she is. I don't think that's bad by itself, but she only gives stuff away secretly when she's embarrassed about it or can't use it.

"But, even with all the stuff she's done, I still love her. I really believe she's a good person deep down inside, Sunset, even though that doesn't mean I forgive her."

"I understand." Sunset placed a hand over Sweetie Belle's. "I even agree with you.

"Look, I just want to know these things so I can understand how I missed it, and see if maybe I missed things with the others. If you don't want to talk about it anymore, I won't force you, and I promise that whatever you tell me will stay between us."

"Okay." Composing herself a bit, Sweetie Belle continued.

"After me and the girls confessed to being Anon-A-Miss, Rarity was horrified. She wasn't just mad at me, though. She was upset that she'd betrayed you. Mum and Dad were angry about that, too. Did you know you could have sued our family over what I did?"

"I heard about that, but I never wanted to."

"Yeah, I told them that you weren't that kind of person, but they weren't exactly going to listen to me then. Besides, would you really want to take that chance if you'd been in our place? Basically, you had power over us, and dad hated that. He'd already lost a lot of face because of me; he didn't want to get sued, too, since that would've made a huge story.

"Our parents told us to do everything we could to get back on your good side, especially Rarity. She was supposed to make sure you'd forgive us, since if you did, maybe everyone else would, too. I mean, you weren't the only one who could have sued us because of what I did.

"Remember when me, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom got beaten up in the bathroom? They didn't actually care that I was hurt, since it was my 'just punishment,' but it was an excuse to have you make a speech about forgiving us. I mean, think about it: Who suggested it? Who helped you write it?"

"Rarity." Sunset remembered the weeks immediately after the Crusaders confessed. All of her friends had been contrite, doing anything they could to prove that they were sorry. Rarity was the only person not to go overboard, which Sunset had attributed to the fashionista's superior social skills. After a few tasteful "I'm sorry" gifts, Rarity had mostly dropped the whole matter. "Is that why your family was so willing to let me stay?"

"Exactly. By the time you were kicked out of your old flat, it was long enough that you wouldn't think they were connected. Even if you did, it would just be a good way for us to make up for what I did to you. When we started hanging out and stuff, they loved it. I was being useful: If we became friends, you wouldn't want to sue us."

Scoffing, Sunset interjected, "You make it sound like if the rumour that got me to leave the school had been true, they would've...." Her body slumped down in realization. "Oh, gods, they wouldn't have cared, would they?"

Sweetie Belle blushed, rubbing the back of her neck. "Maybe? I mean, they made it pretty clear that I should do anything you wanted to make you happy with me. Uh, I think Rarity said I should 'endear myself to you' or something. No one really asked about those times I'd ask you to sleep with me, but I guess they could've wondered about what we were doing."

The best word to describe Sunset's feelings at the moment would have been 'disgust.' While part of her doubted Rarity would knowingly allow such a thing to happen to her sister, another part could easily see her former friend doing exactly that if she could save her own reputation.

Sweetie Belle cleared her throat. "You know, in a way, you living with us was the best time of my life since before I went into the hospital. No one would yell at me when you were there, since we had to be the picture of a happy family. I could even pretend that we were, too. It was everything I ever wanted: A big sister who'd pay attention to me and let me hang out with her, parents who wouldn't yell at me or hit me, and a friend on a permanent sleepover.

"It was like the Christmas party, when I got to go because it would've looked weird if I didn't when Scootaloo and Apple Bloom did." She paused to grin. "Even with all of that and the stuff since then, I'm happier now." With another pause, this time to throw her arms around Sunset, she added, "Thanks for everything."

Sunset returned the embrace. "I am going to talk with the other girls one-on-one, just to see where we stand. Like I said, though, I won't repeat anything you've told me."

"I know you won't; that's why I told you. So, who's first?"

"Applejack." Sunset sighed as she released Sweetie Belle. "Might as well get moving. I'll have my mobile; call me if you need anything."

"Okay, see you later."

As Sunset prepared to leave, Sweetie Belle collected their breakfast dishes and began cleaning them.

Though she had no particular order to meeting with the girls, Sweet Apple Acres' proximity made it a convenient starting point. Sweetie Belle would have loved to visit Apple Bloom, but she and Sunset both knew it was too soon. Applejack would need time to accept the situation, and Apple Bloom would need time to persuade her sister or to get the rest of her family to do so.

When Sunset pulled into the drive, she attracted the attention of the family's matriarch, who was cooling pies on a windowsill. Her eyes widened when she recognised Sunset, and she rushed to the front door. The old woman could really move when she felt it was important.

The tearful apologies from those who had treated her so poorly during the spirit infestation were becoming too common. At least she could expect only one more - from Big Mac - during her visits. They were simply too awkward. She did not hold any grudges against anyone, but they would still blame themselves. It was a complete reversal of roles from the weeks after the Fall Formal.

Even with the assurances that it was not her fault, Granny Smith refused to let Sunset depart the house in search of her quarry until she took three apple pies. Were she still the type of person she had been prior to the Fall Formal, Sunset would have been able to live purely on the guilt of the student body and the school staff. Perhaps the only surprise was that the elderly woman had not mentioned the situation with Sweetie Belle, but her grandchildren may not have informed her of it yet.

When she finally departed the house for the farm, Sunset looked beyond the mundane, stretching her senses as far as she could. There would be no avoiding Big Mac, so she wanted to see him and complete the other apology before meeting Applejack. She could then be assured of no distractions for the coming talk. He was nearby, working on some of the farm equipment.

At least his apology was simple. When he saw her, he stopped his work to look her in the eye and say, "Ah'm sorry."

"All is forgiven. I just want you to know that it was magick, exactly like the Sirens. If you want to know more, ask Applejack."

"Thank ya kindly, Sunset. If'n yer lookin' fer her, she's out by the west orchard."

"Thanks. See you around, Big Mac."

"Eeyup."

Applejack was completing the harvest of one of the trees when Sunset found her.

"What brings ya 'round here?" she asked, not looking at her visitor.

"I wanted to talk with someone I trust to tell me the truth."

Applejack descended the ladder, then sat against the tree. "Reckon Ah'm due fer a break anyways. Whaddya wanna talk about?"

Hesitantly, Sunset joined her in the shade. "Well, I found out that one of my best friends was lying to me about who she really is, so now I'm wondering about all of you. Rarity used me, Applejack, and now I'm questioning all of my friendships. Please tell me the truth: Why did you become my friend? Have we even really been friends?"

Rather than respond immediately, the cowgirl heaved a sigh. "Ah would've been mighty angry if'n ya'd asked me that a week ago. Now...." She fell silent as she adjusted her hat. "Ah cain't rightly blame ya fer bein' hurt or fer doubtin' me. Ah'd be lyin' if'n Ah said Ah ain't had the same feelin's lately."

Sunset did not push for a direct answer. She would get one, of that she was certain, but it had to be in Applejack's time.

"Here's the honest truth: Yer mah friend. When ya ended up in that pit, what Ah said then was the truth, too, about how Ah fergave ya fer what ya'd done before. Even if Princess Twilight hadn't asked me, Ah'd've reached out ta ya. Everybody deserves a second chance, no matter what they've done."

Sunset nodded. "I'm glad you decided to give me one."

They sat quietly for a few minutes before Applejack removed her hat and looked at Sunset.

"There's somethin' else Ah wanted ta say: Ah was wrong in how Ah handled the news last week. Apple Bloom ain't stupid; Ah've gotta trust that she'll know what's right. Ah'm guessin' that girl's been hurt a lot, 'n she don't deserve ta be treated like an outcast by her friends. Ah may not agree with it, but Ah respect that she's owned up 'n taken responsibility. So, if'n it's alright, Ah'd like ta stop by 'n apologise ta Sweetie Belle after mah chores are done."

A genuine smile flickered on Sunset's face. "I think she'd appreciate that."

"Ah'll take Apple Bloom over, too. Come ta think of it, don't be surprised if we all end up on yer doorstep."

With a chuckle, Sunset replied, "I don't mind at all. I'm going to see the others, so I might be gone for a while. She'd love the company."

"Ya might come home ta find more baked goods than ya can shake a stick at."

They shared a laugh. It felt right, as though the previous week's events had been only a brief moment of unpleasantness. With the air cleared, Sunset knew that at least one of her friendships would not change.

It would have been easy to stay and to help her friend with the chores while ignoring all of her other problems, but Sunset had to continue. She did not want to risk the pain of learning that Rarity was not the only bad apple, but she could not leave the questions unasked. Learning that Rarity was not the only one now would hurt; learning it months or years later would be like building a castle on shifting sand, doomed to fall.

Making her farewells, she settled into her car - which would smell of cinnamon apple pie for weeks, not that such a thing would bother her - and made for Pinkie's home. On the way, she called Ace.

He answered with, "Hey, Sparky, what's up?"

"How does the Consilium arrange food for the Forums?"

"We usually cater it. We used to have a couple Sleepwalker chefs on staff, but one died last year and the other promptly decided to take his service to the local Seers. I'm guessing the two events were related, but we never proved it."

"Seers?"

"Ask Pearl. Anyway, why do you ask?"

"Do you think the Hierarch would be interested in trying something a little different?"

There was a pause from the other end of the line. "What do you mean?"

Explaining what she had in mind was quick. Ace had heard of Sweet Apple Acres, and Sparky was aware that he knew Sunset was friendly with the family. He promised to broach the idea with the Hierarch, but could not promise anything beyond that.

Pinkie's schedule outside school hours always seemed random, but Sunset knew there was an underlying pattern to it that might not make sense to most people, even if the party girl explained it. What little Sunset knew of the Lost included the fact that they practically worshipped natural change. Day to night and the seasonal progressions were fundamental to them, but each developed specific patterns. The reasoning eluded her, but it had something to do with the True Fae, the mention of which evoked only fear.

On Saturdays, Pinkie would do one of exactly six activities, though the interpretations of each could leave one believing that there were more. Staying home to bake was one of them, which she did when she was helping with a party - unless certain weather conditions were present, at which point she would visit the Cakes and use the Sweet Shoppe's kitchen. Sunset did not know exactly what weather would chase the party girl from her home, but Pinkie had mentioned she was throwing a party soon. Fortunately, she had confirmed that she could do the preparations at home.

When Sunset arrived, she went to knock only for Maud to open the door first. The older girl welcomed her as expressionlessly as always. Even if they were sisters, Sunset could not understand how Pinkie could read Maud so well. It required Sunset's magick to determine what Maud felt, but Pinkie could do it with a glance. At least, she seemed to be able to do it that way, but Sunset had heard that the Lost were naturally gifted with sensing emotion.

"I'm going out for a survey," Maud said when she and Sunset were in the living room. "You're welcome to stay. I'm sure Pinkie would like the company."

"Thanks. Have fun, Maud."

The sound of dishes rattling in the kitchen drew Sunset. She found her friend mixing something, piles of treats on the counters around her.

Pinkie did not pause her work as she said, "Hey, Sunset, I'm almost done. Can you taste-test the cookies behind me? They're for a meeting at the Freehold tonight. Summer King is stepping down, so we're appointing his replacement."

As she selected and munched on a cookie from the platter she assumed to be the one in question - there were four, each with a different type of cookie - Sunset asked, "Aren't you worried about your family hearing you talk about that?"

"Oh, I just live with Maud, and she knows about it, but I guess I haven't told you about that, have I? I don't have time today, but is it okay if I come over to your place tomorrow? We can finish the contract we made, and I can tell you about how I became Lost."

"Are you sure about that? You don't have to."

Pinkie shrugged. "You're one of my best friends. If I could have told everyone else, I would have a long time ago."

"Alright, then I'll see you tomorrow. Do you need any help before I go?"

"If you're not too busy, could you help me get everything packed up and cleaned?"

"Sure. What do you want me to do?"

Pinkie rummaged in a cupboard until she produced several storage containers. "Box everything up. The Freehold's gonna have plates and stuff, so I just need to carry them."

"Through the Hedge, or can you drive there?"

The Lost girl made a face. "Only senior members of the court can go in person. I have to go through the Hedge. The goblins always try to take my treats when I do, so I take extra for them."

When they were done, Pinkie insisted on a big hug before she allowed Sunset to depart for Twilight's house.

They may not have discussed the reasons Pinkie originally offered Sunset her hand in friendship, but she did not mind. Pinkie was her friend now, and that was all that mattered in the end. Even if the original reason was a lie, she could live with it.

Checking with the young scientist that was Twilight was perhaps the easiest part of Sunset's day. The two shared more interests than any of the others, and both understood what it was like to be overcome with desire for power and, in turn, to overcome their mistakes.

Twilight's brother welcomed Sunset. Both of her parents were gone for the weekend, which meant they would mostly have privacy to talk. Shining Armour would not eavesdrop, and the human Cadance was not part of the family — not yet, at least — so she was unlikely to drop by the house without warning.

"Twily's in her room. You want me to bring up any refreshments?"

"No, thanks. I just needed to drop by for a few minutes, and I want to save room for dinner. The Apples are coming over today."

He laughed. "Can't blame you there. Go on up. She said she was expecting you."

"Thanks."

The door to her friend's room was open. Sunset knocked on the frame regardless, only letting herself cross the threshold after Twilight welcomed her, then closed the door behind herself.

After Princess Twilight gave them a picture of herself with all of their counterparts, Fluttershy had crocheted stuffed versions of each of them. Included was Spike's draconic form, which she had gifted to Sci-Twi. The young scientist was cuddling that stuffed dragon as Sunset pulled the chair from the computer desk to face the bed, where Twilight sat.

After a few moments of staring at each other, Twilight said, "This situation reminds me of Crystal Prep."

"I'm sorry you got caught up in it."

Laying back on her bed with her toy clutched to her chest, Twilight replied, "I know what it's like to think someone's your friend when they're really not. I don't want to go through that again, Sunset."

"For what it's worth, I do think you and Rarity can be real friends."

"But how can I be friends with someone who doesn't even hesitate to kick her sister out? I have a big brother, Sunset. If I'd ever been in Sweetie Belle's position and he treated me like that, I'd be completely destroyed. I mean, he's always pressured me to do my best, but he usually knows when to back off; he realised that he went too far over the Friendship Games and apologised. I'm not some object to make my family look better; they love me even though I didn't win the Games and changed schools. Could Rarity even do that?"

"I don't know. Hell, I don't know if she's the only one."

Spike had been gnawing on a bone at the foot of the bed, merely listening as the girls talked. He dropped it to move next to Twilight, where he stood protectively to glare at Sunset.

"Is that why you're here? Are you questioning Twilight?"

"Yes, Spike. I don't like doubting my friends, but I also can't trust them."

Twilight gave him a reassuring pat. "Don't be mad at Sunset, Spike. I understand how she feels. I've been feeling the same way.

"I think we're all going to be a little nervous around each other for a while. Maybe it'll turn out that another one of our friends isn't who she appears to be, but I'm still going to give everyone a chance. 'Innocent until proven guilty.'"

Spike nodded as he bared his teeth. "Just let me know if anyone hurts you again, Twilight. I'll take care of them."

His owner - or perhaps caretaker was a better word at that point - giggled. She showed that she was not mocking him, though, when she dropped her stuffed dragon and hugged him.

"Thanks, Spike. I'd take you over a diamond any day."

They welcomed Sunset into a hug, who then departed to visit Fluttershy.

According to what little Sunset had heard, the quiet girl was spending more time than she normally did at the animal shelter. It made sense, as everyone knew that Fluttershy was most comfortable surrounded by her animal friends.

Sunset arrived to find her on the grounds behind the building, the many inhabitants romping and playing around her. The sight of Fluttershy calmly loving each of the animals and watching them cavort nearly turned Sunset back to her vehicle to skip what would surely ruin any peace the young woman had found.

Instead, she steeled herself to her task, approaching slowly and seating herself next to Fluttershy.

"I wondered when you'd come looking for me."

"I'm sorry it took so long. I've been afraid of what I would find out."

Gently shooing the dogs and cats that had been cuddled against her, Fluttershy turned to face Sunset. Tears ran down her cheeks, her eyes puffy and red.

"Did you really worry about me? Were you wondering whether I was your friend?"

"Honestly, some part of me always wondered why you all reached out to me after the Fall Formal, when I had been so terrible to you for so long. You all said you would have done it whether Princess Twilight asked you to or not.

"Then I watched you all fall apart during the Battle of the Bands, and then you all turned against me during the Anon-A-Miss mess. Now I find out that Rarity was using me to make herself look better? I'm sorry, Fluttershy. I don't want to doubt you, but I can't stop myself."

With a sigh, the teen nodded. "I understand. Thank you for being honest about it." She was fidgeting, always a sign that she had more to say, but that she was struggling to do it.

Rushing her was never a good choice. Instead, Sunset waited.

Finally, Fluttershy said, "I don't want to lose any of my friends, Sunset. I don't want to question if Rarity is my real friend or not. I want to go to the spa with her and go clothes shopping and sit and talk like we always have."

"Then do that. I didn't come to tell you to pick one of us."

"But that's what you being here is doing," she exclaimed, her voice suddenly much louder than it was usually. "If no one said anything, I could have stayed out of it. I know I'm being stupid and fooling myself, but I didn't want to get caught between two of my friends."

Sunset stood. "Then don't. I'm sorry, Fluttershy. I didn't mean to hurt you again."

"Are you leaving?"

"I want all of my friends to be happy. If not being around them will make them feel better, then I'll do it for them."

"That's not what I want."

"What do you want? Do you think I'm happy to be in this situation? To put you through it?"

Fluttershy did not respond verbally. She stood, wrapping Sunset in a hug, crying into her shoulder.

"Is it really okay not to choose one of you?" she asked when the tears subsided.

"Yes, it is. This might feel like some messy divorce, but I'm not so petty as to put you through that. If you're my friend, then you're my friend, no matter who your other friends are."

"Thanks, Sunset."

Though she still looked a mess, Fluttershy was genuinely happy again. With or without magick, Sunset could see that the dark cloud over her friend had dispersed. She left for her final meeting, satisfied that Fluttershy would not have to suffer.

Only Rainbow Dash remained. Until Sunset met Sci-Twi, she would have said that she had the most in common with her athletic friend. Even though she felt closest to Sci-Twi currently, the post-Awakening Sunset found that she was drawing increasingly closer to Pinkie Pie, though that may have been Sparky. Sunset could not always differentiate what belonged to which, especially with two friends sharing both lives.

With so many positive outcomes that day, she was starting to feel hopeful that she would lose only one friendship. Hope was a dangerous feeling, though, so she buried it under her doubt. If her friends could not understand why she was questioning them and forgive her, they were not her real friends.

It was about an hour past noon when she arrived at CHS. With the final dissolution of the hate spirits' influence, she could enter without fear. Even if she was no longer a student, there was no rule prohibiting her visiting a friend and watching practises. Even if someone complained, Celestia and Luna would cover for her. It would hardly be the first time the school had ignored having a non-student wandering about the campus.

Afternoon practise was ending when Sunset approached the athletic field. Rainbow Dash was the last player on the team remaining, likely having waived offers to assist her in storing the equipment. She said nothing as Sunset began to toss soccer balls into their container. The cleaning passed in silence. When they were done, Dash jerked her head at the bleachers.

The girls settled onto the lower seats. Sunset said nothing, knowing that it was best to allow Rainbow Dash to make the first move.

"Look, I'm sorry I just up and left like that last week. I wanted to sort everything out in my head first. I know that's not my usual style, but this isn't one of those things where I can just wing it.

"Anyway, I bet I can tell you what the others will say. Applejack's going to be all against Rarity now. Even if she wasn't mad about the lies, the whole 'family loves each other' thing is her shtick. Fluttershy'll probably play with the animals and cry because she can't pick which side to join. She hates being caught in the middle, even when she's really not. Pinkie's just going to stay out of it. Twilight's going to ditch Rarity. Did I miss anything?"

Sunset gave a mirthless chuckle. "No, you're pretty much spot on."

"So you saw everybody else already?" It was more of a statement than a question.

"Yeah. So where does that leave you?"

Dash shook her head. "I'm out. I can't deal with this, what with graduation and college coming up. Go ahead and yell at me. I know I deserve it."

"Before I do that, please answer this: Why did you become my friend in the first place?"

"I might as well," she replied with a sigh. "I'm going to get it anyway." The athlete could not look in Sunset's direction, shame obvious on her face and in her emotions. Sunset's heart sank at that, but she listened.

"I'm guessing you asked everyone else about this, too. Knowing them, Applejack and Fluttershy said they believe in second chances. I don't think Pinkie Pie can hold a grudge at all, but especially not when she can make a new friend instead. Me and Rarity, though...."

She shrugged. "I know I've got something wrong with me, just like her. After we beat you at the Fall Formal, I was thrilled. I helped take down the unstoppable demon, Sunset Shimmer! Even before Twilight asked us to look after you, I was planning to do it. Thing is, I just wanted to show off. I felt like the hero of the school; I had the queen bitch on a leash. I wanted to make sure everyone saw that you were my pet, following me around and doing everything I told you. It felt amazing, controlling somebody like you.

"With all that stuff at the Battle of the Bands, I was pissed that you went and figured out our problem, but you were right. I could see that you'd really changed. Despite everything, even all of our little comments ... you had become a better person. God, I tried so hard to push you into making a mistake, but you just let everything go. You were better than me; you took away my victory. I hated you then, but I couldn't do anything about it.

"If it weren't for the Sirens causing a problem, I don't know what I would've done. Seriously, I was so mad, and I just wanted to beat you senseless for being better than me.

"I fought myself so hard over that. Do you know how hard it was to work with you then in the state I was in? Even with as much trouble as we were in, I didn't want to lose. I wanted to crush the Sirens with my song, but I knew inside that it wouldn't work.

"You wanna know what's really messed up? I got myself to let us play Fluttershy's song by promising myself that everybody would know I was still the biggest hero. I had to tell myself that I'd get you back later just to get that other part of me to cooperate.

"I knew it wasn't right. I'd known for a while how messed up I was, but that really made me see it. I'd always been a good guy, helping others and standing up for them. I was proud that everybody could count on me to have their backs. It made me feel like I'm not as messed up as I really am. As long as they didn't get higher up than me, I'd help anybody."

Sunset noticed Dash's hands clenching into fists, which worried her. However, when she took a few seconds to examine the athlete's spark, Sunset could tell she was fighting the agitation. Dash gradually released them with a drawn-out sigh.

"So, anyway, after all of that stuff, I finally told Dad about it. It's been just the two of us since I was three. I never used to keep things secret from him, but I hadn't said anything since I was afraid he'd leave me, just like her. That he'd kick me out the door. Even now, I can't help but think that Mum knew that I was broken, and that's why she left. When she divorced Dad, she made sure to disown me or something, too. She made sure she completely left both of us. I was so sure that when I told him, he'd ... he'd be done with me."

Tears welled up in Dash's eyes. She blinked them away angrily and slumped forward, leaning her face on her hands. Sunset did not need to debate with herself before reaching over to offer a hug. Dash did not resist her, but was in no position to return it. When she was ready, Dash continued her story.

"Anyways, he was shocked. Really lost-for-words, blank-faced shock. I told him everything about the dark thing in me, how I was more mad that you'd become a better person than I was happy for it. That I'd really been wanting to beat the crap out of you for being good now. I couldn’t hide anything once I really started talking.

Dash was sniffling a bit at that point. Her voice had become a bit coarse, but she kept it under control by pausing to clear her throat. "It's not just you, by the way. There's a reason I haven't spent as much time with Scootaloo lately. Having a fan like her? I want to own her, too. Make her my pet, just like I wanted to do with you. I know I'm hurting her just so I don't hurt her even more. It's pretty messed up, huh?"

Pausing to exhale sharply, stress and guilt on her face and heavy in the spark of her soul, Dash continued, "Remember when I told you I was sick and missed school for a few days? That was him and me trying to work out what was wrong with me. After I told him, I was ready to run; I was sure he'd tell me to leave or beat me to a pulp or something, but he just hugged me. He was crying, and I was crying, and he hugged me just like he did when I was little.

"More than anything else up to then, the fact that he could still love me, and didn't kick me out ... it helped. He knew about it, but he didn't abandon me. It's not like that suddenly fixed me, but I feel a lot stronger. I'm still pissed at you deep inside, but I'm fighting it.

"Once he was sure I wouldn't run away, Dad said I should see someone. Dad saw him when Mum left, and I trust my Dad, especially now that I know he'll stay with me. I've been talking with this really old psychologist about it. The doc's pretty good, too, for being so old, but I guess that just means he's seen everything.

"I talked to him this week and told him about you. I promise, nothing bad, just that my friend took in a pregnant teen when her family kicked her out. Talking to - no, with him, I sorta had a breakthrough, I guess. I was actually happy that Sweetie Belle could have you to protect her. It's the first time I was glad that you'd become a better person and that you were doing good for someone else.

"You know me: Live fast. I'm 'Dash,' after all." She offered a weak chuckle at her joke. "I hate this; I want it gone, but it'll take a long time, if it even goes away. That's, like, the opposite of me. I might have to live my whole life fighting this thing.

"When you told us about those spirits, I thought maybe it was something like them. I thought maybe they'd gotten into me, or that I summoned them or something. I mean, I've had this since I can remember, so it would've been nice if it was magic, but I know I'm just rotten. Not everything is evil magic from Equestria, after all."

Rainbow Dash slumped forward again. "Jeez. You ask me one question, and you get my whole life story. I'm turning into Rarity in more ways than one."

Sunset offered another hug. "No, you're not. Rainbow Dash, you are not rotten. I know what it's like to struggle with something dark inside. It took the five of you - even if not everyone was in it for the right reasons - to get me out of it. You've done what I couldn't do: You recognised that there's something wrong before it consumed you and got help. That already means you're a better person than I am."

A small, grateful smile graced Dash's face, but it faded quickly.

"I just don't wanna ditch Rarity. If there's hope for me, there has to be some for her."

"She's probably expecting most of you to leave her over this. You said that your father staying by your side meant more to you than anything, right? If you know the truth about her, but you still stick with her, it might help."

"You really think so?" Dash's eyes, a little puffy from her earlier tears, were full of hope. "You think I can help her? Do you think someone like me could actually do something good?"

"I want to believe it, but the difference is that you wanted to change. She hasn't shown any sign of that. Still, you never know what might punch a hole in someone's armour and really get them to think about who they are ... and what they really want to be."

They sat quietly for a moment, both lost in thought. The shame and guilt about Rainbow Dash's soul - so similar to what Sunset had seen within Sweetie Belle - was diminished, but itwas far from gone. It was getting into the mid-afternoon as the athlete checked her mobile.

"I promised Dad we'd have an early dinner today. We've been spending more time together whenever we can. He was using it to check up on me and how I'm feeling, but now we're mostly just having father-daughter time. It makes him happy that we're getting close again, and I like it, too, but I never said that, got me?"

Sunset gave her a friendly elbow nudge with, "Yeah, I got it, you big softy."

They both shared a needed laugh. Sunset offered one final hug before heading home.

The Apple family's truck was parked behind the garage when she returned. She found all four of them in the flat with Sweetie Belle, who was playing "Connect 4" with Apple Bloom.

When Sunset entered, Applejack beckoned her to the couch.

"Ya know, when we were gettin' ready ta head over, a couple men stopped by the farm. There was this young guy with more tattoos than ya can shake a stick at, 'n this older man who was wearin' a suit that looked like it'd cost as much as our truck.

"They wanted ta set up a caterin' fer next week. Said ya recommended us, 'n that if yer coworkers liked it, they'd be interested in a contract."

"Huh. I thought I'd have to let them try some samples first."

"I did," Sweetie Belle called. "Ace and, uh, Mr. Luck stopped over and asked about Sweet Apple Acres food, so I gave them some of the apple tarts and cider we had left over."

"Ya fed 'em leftovers?" Granny Smith's expression could only be described by one of Pinkie's favourite words: Gobsmacked. "They came all the way out because of leftovers?"

"Yeah, ya wouldn't believe how much they offered. Ah thought AJ wasn't gonna take it," Apple Bloom added. "It's like ten times what we usually get." She clapped a hand over her mouth, looking guiltily at her sister.

Applejack sighed. "It's fine, AB. Sunset, why'd ya go 'n do somethin' like that?"

"Because you guys make some of the best food and baked goods I've ever eaten. All I did was mention you. No sales pitch or spin."

"Ah'm glad fer that. Ah know we may not have a lot of money, but we ain't a charity case."

"Eeyup."

"I would never demean you guys like that. The only reason I didn't mention it is because I didn't want to get your hopes up. They decided to give you a chance based on what Sweetie Belle gave them. Your work spoke for itself, I promise."

"Ah believe ya, 'n we all appreciate it, right, y'all?"

"Ya bet yer bootstraps we do. Ah'm gonna be workin' overtime fer this one. We don't wanna make Sunset out ta be a liar, do we?"

"Nnnope."

Apple Bloom gave her a hug. Sunset had lost count of the number of times she had given or received one throughout the day, but she was not going to complain over getting another. It was probably the first one that day that had nothing behind it except happiness.

The youngest Apple peppered Sunset with questions about what they should make, but Sunset answered them all by replying, "Bronze Luck and Ace came to see you because they liked what you usually make. Just stick with that."

Not wanting the good times to end too quickly, Sunset offered to order dinner for everyone. It was a Forum night, but it would not be an issue for her to miss it. From what she heard, half of the city's Awakened population only attended irregularly if they attended at all. With both present Crusaders offering their best pleading faces, none of the adults could resist. Sunset even managed to convince them not to contribute money for the food, as it was her party; they understood a host's pride, after all, even if the food was carry out.

She stepped into the main house to inform Pearl and to invite her, but the elder Mage declined. She had been friends with Granny Smith in their youth and did not want to risk drawing suspicion to herself nor to take the chance of having the Apple matriarch reveal her True Name.

"But y'all have fun. Save me somethin', ya hear? Help yerselves ta the lemonade; Ah've got way too much of it in mah fridge right now."

"Will do. Thanks, Pearl, see you later."

Sunset invited the rest of her friends. She knew Rainbow Dash had plans, but Sunset invited her to join them later, even welcoming the athlete's father. The Crusaders never forgot their own, so she did not worry about Scootaloo. Knowing Sweetie Belle, there was a good chance Button Mash - and possibly his family - would also be joining them.

With so many people, the person taking her order at the local Chinese place - which still was not so local as to deliver to the farm - must have had a muscle cramp by the time Sunset finished. She was feeding an army, throwing a party for the sake of spending time with friends. Not everything in the world was or could be bright and happy, but at least one small corner of it would be that night.

PART II END