Sunset Shimmer: Student of Magick

Only the light of the sun penetrating the curtains woke Sunset from her unpleasant dreams. A careful inspection with her magick verified that she was actually awake. The first several instances of those nightmares had always been accompanied by bolting up, stiff as a ramrod and soaked in cold sweat. Now they were passé. She may have become inured to them, but that did not help her sleep to be restful.

She moved silently from her bed, peeking into the lower bunk where her friend remained oblivious to the waking world. The girl's spark was content, though Sunset could feel the exhaustion in her. She hoped Sweetie Belle would receive at least one more hour of rest, baby willing.

The sleep-thief lay next to her mother on the side by the wall. Pixel Bit was also enjoying her slumber, her chubby legs and arms occasionally flailing or her stubby appendages twitching. A 'U'-shaped pillow ensured she would not roll under Sweetie Belle or press her face into something and suffocate.

Karen slept curled into a ball near the child, her ears twitching every time the baby moved. She may have only explicitly promised to guard Pixel Bit against the nastier creatures of the world, but she also remained vigilant for mundane threats.

While Pixie was growing normally, her mother was already back to her pre-pregnancy weight, adjusted for her own growth. Nine months of Sunset carefully balancing their meals and a semi-active lifestyle that included extensive walking about the farm had their desired effects. Sweetie Belle may not have been as vain as her sister could be, but she had been clear about her desire to lose the 'baby fat.'

Sunset leant over Sweetie Belle to brush the baby's cheek, still marvelling at how soft the little one's skin was, then crept from the room to make some breakfast.

'How does something that small make so much noise?'

'That's simple: She must have combined the noise levels of her parents,' Sunset's other self replied.

'True. I'm sure she'll have a cute, squeaky voice when she starts talking.'

'Kill me now.'

Sunset smirked at the response. Anyone else may have found such words coming from another part of their mind frightening, but she knew her other self would not actually wish for them to die.

The pancakes were nearly complete when there was a light knock on the door connecting her flat to the house. Sunset opened it, invited Pearl into the flat, and then hurried back to the kitchen.

"The girls sleepin'?"

"Pixie was up three times, so I figured Sweetie Belle wouldn't mind sleeping in."

Pearl winced. "Least school's out now. Anyways, Ah just dropped by ta warn y'all that we're harvestin' the early grains today. Magick or not, they've shot up like weeds this year. Ah've gotta git out ta the fields."

"I'll pass that along. Thanks, Pearl."

Her breakfast plated and in hand, Sunset collapsed at the table to eat. She opened one of her textbooks to get a little reading completed while she still had the quiet time to concentrate. Four pancakes and thirteen pages on the basics of networks passed in silence before Pixel Bit decided she needed something immediately and alerted the entire farm by crying in a pitch that would give Karen a headache. Sunset had been carrying her plate to the sink, but her surprise at the sudden noise caused her to drop it. She was treated to the sound of it shattering and knew she would need to buy more dishware again. Pixie - normally a happy baby - had become fussy because of an ear infection that was finally clearing, but the end could not arrive too quickly.

For all that the baby demonstrated her mastery of sonic weapons when she wanted something, she would usually calm quickly in either of her parents' arms, or in those of the people with whom she had a close bond. Thus, Sunset only had to tolerate it a few minutes.

Sweetie Belle joined her in the kitchen, cradling Pixie. The young mother tried to offer a greeting which was interrupted by a yawn.

"Do you mind if I feed her first?" she asked as Sunset prepared another stack of pancakes.

"Go ahead. I'll keep these warm in the toaster oven."

Though Pixie was devouring increasing amounts of baby food, breastfeeding was still a large part of her diet. Thanks to Sweetie Belle learning how to use a pump, Sunset had been able to avoid using formula when the teen was at school. As Pixie suckled, Sunset repeated Pearl's warning. With the summer weather still feeling more like spring, Sweetie Belle liked to take her daughter for walks around the farm's property whenever she had the time.

The hired hands loved their visits. One of the workers had given Sweetie Belle a rosary for her daughter, which the teen had graciously accepted despite having no particular religious leanings. He had made it himself, the beads alternating colours to match the baby's hair and the cross a wood that was a few shades darker than Pixie's skin. It was always placed above her cradle or her walker whenever the baby was in one of them, as - in Sweetie Belle's words - "it can't hurt anything."

When the morning feeding was complete, Sunset took the baby for burping to afford Sweetie Belle her own opportunity to eat. She had tried eating while nursing, which had proved too complicated for anything she could not hold in one hand.

Once Sweetie Belle finished her breakfast, she rushed through her morning routine to make herself and Pixie presentable before leaving for their walk. Sunset went back to her studies, completing another five pages - only three remaining until she would be finished - before she was again interrupted by a knock, this time at the front door.

Rarity was on the deck, accompanied by Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. It was hardly the first time any of them had visited over the months, but the three together was an unusual sight.

When the two younger girls learned their friend would not be back for some time, they decided to go looking for her and left the older girls alone. Pearl was once again likely to get at least some free labour.

Sunset invited Rarity into the living room and served them each a cup of lemon balm tea as they took seats facing each other.

"How are your classes going?" Rarity asked.

"I'm doing really well. Full marks across the board, but it is only the first week. I looked at the syllabi; I never realised just how brutal summer classes are."

"Yes, well, they are trying to cram sixteen weeks into ten."

"I'm doing the split summer. They're eight weeks back-to-back."

"No wonder you started already. Did you even get a break?"

"Four days."

Rarity placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Just don't burn out, darling. I know you don't want to rely on help from Princess Twilight longer than necessary-"

"I can't afford to slow down. I need to finish school and get a job that'll pay enough to support Sweetie Belle and Pixie."

"At the risk of being intrusive, are you running out of money?"

"Not yet, but I will within five years. Even with the stipend from Twilight, I'm going through my savings too quickly."

Rarity nodded. "If you are certain you won't burn out, then do what you must. Please never hesitate to let us know if you need help. I can certainly provide some assistance for my sister and niece, you know. Promise me you won't try to go through this alone."

"If things get critical, I'll let you know. Love Tap and Chip have been helping with a lot of the miscellaneous expenses, so it's better than it could have been. Neither of us even asked about it; they just show up with baby food, toys, gift cards, and stuff like that."

"I am glad for that. Now, how about we talk of something else? Are you still taking all of your classes online?"

"Of course." Sunset grinned, already feeling a little more cheerful. "It would be nice to hang out on campus with you guys, but I like having the option to study on my schedule. I wish we had them in Equestria."

"Did you have a version of the Internet?"

"No, but we had computers. Nothing to what this world has, but they're coming along. I tried asking Twilight for some information on what they've got so far and she sent me several engineering papers."

They both chuckled. "Yes, I am hardly surprised."

"How's everything for you?"

"Oh, I'm doing quite well, thank you for asking. I love my classes, though I fear the professors make a few too many assumptions about their students' lack of experience. To tell the truth, I sometimes find myself a little ... well, bored. I can hardly complain, except that Rainbow Dash is perhaps the worst roommate in the history of dormitories."

That earned another chuckle. Sunset could picture what the daily interactions between the two would be. She would not call her athletic friend messy, but Dash had far different standards than the fashionista did. Odds were that Rarity was more offended by their differing sleeping schedules than she was by the less-than-perfect organisation of their dorm.

"I'm sure she says the same things about you."

Rarity tittered. "Of course she does, darling. How do you think we survive living together? I imagine you and Sweetie Belle have found ways to vent your occasional frustrations with one another."

"Pretty much. Any other news?"

"Fluttershy is doing well with her classes. She will be coming back to see us all by the end of summer. Pinkie Pie is still deciding what her major should be. We're all sophomores now, but she's still taking whatever classes sound interesting. Twilight is apparently in possession of keys for multiple science labs, as they have given up trying to get her to leave. I swear, that girl keeps up better with a triple major than I do with a single one in which I already know much of the syllabus. I believe you're caught up with Applejack?"

Sunset nodded. "She dropped by Tuesday. Why did you end up taking summer classes?"

"My parents somehow discovered that I have been visiting Sweetie Belle. While they are not pleased, they have not been vocal about it so long as I do not mention her. Still, I find it more convenient to remain in the dorm than to move back in with them."

"I'm sorry to hear that. So, why did you bring the girls with you?"

"Rainbow Dash told me that Scootaloo has expressed some jealousy over the fact that Apple Bloom can visit so easily, given her proximity. I offered to bring her with me today, but then Apple Bloom insisted on coming here with us because 'Crusaders stick together.' From what little I heard of their conversation, I think she was also concerned Pixel Bit may, er, 'imprint' on her Auntie Scootaloo more if they don't visit together."

"Do humans even work like that?"

"No, but I could not bring myself to disparage such an adorable sentiment."

The aforementioned Crusaders returned, Apple Bloom wearing the baby-carrier. "Ya ain't kiddin', Sweetie Belle. Babies do start ta weigh a lot."

"So you admit defeat?" Scootaloo challenged.

"Ah did not say that."

Sweetie Belle, who was behind them, covered her mouth with a hand to suppress her laughter. The girls took seats on the couch together, Sweetie Belle closest to her sister.

"Do you want to hold her for a bit?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Of course, dear." Rarity was already holding her hands toward her sister, ready to take Pixie.

"Hey, Ah didn't say Ah was tired yet."

"You can decide that another time. Besides, you're sitting down right now."

Sweetie Belle pulled her daughter from the holder and passed the baby to her waiting aunt. Rarity cooed at Pixie and tickled her, who responded with a few happy noises of her own.

"She's always so much bigger every time I see her." When the baby's eyes opened wide for a good look at her aunt, Rarity gasped. "Oh, her eyes have started to darken. I wonder what colour they will be."

"I read they do it from sunlight. It's a little earlier than average, but we do get a lot of sun."

"So, dear, I apologise for bringing up a sensitive topic so suddenly, but I was hoping we could plan a chance for me meet this little darling's father. I already know very well that he is Button Mash, but I would like to meet him formally in the context of his relationship to Pixel Bit."

Sweetie Belle's eyes widened in surprise; a little trepidation entered her, but she did not show fear of her sister as she once had.

"You know? How'd you find out?"

"Sweetie Belle, he has been the only boy with whom you have ever spent time, and he was always with you in the hospital. Of course, one need only to look at this adorable bundle of joy to know. I assure you that I mean him no ill-will; I would merely like for us to be able to acknowledge one another's presence."

With a glance at Sunset, Sweetie Belle replied, "He's coming later today. I'll see if he can come early for lunch if you're not in a rush."

"Not at all. Thank you, dear."

Despite the stimulation of her aunt's voice, Pixie's eyes had been drooping as Rarity and Sweetie Belle spoke. The infant quickly passed back into sleep in the warmth of Rarity's arms.

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo began arguing quietly while Sweetie Belle sent a message to Button.

"Ah told ya, it don't count. We'll try it again next time."

"What contest are you two talking about?" Sunset asked.

Apple Bloom replied, "Sweetie Belle was talkin' about how heavy carryin' a baby gets, so me and Scootaloo wanted ta give her a break. We decided ta see who got tired of carryin' her first."

"I lost rock-paper-scissors so Apple Bloom was going first. I was timing her."

Sweetie Belle leaned back into the cushion to stretch, which was accompanied by a yawn. "Thanks for the break, girls. When she wakes up, we can go for another walk. You can try again."

Scootaloo began eyeing Sweetie Belle's chest, a bit of surprise in her gaze. "Hey, Sweetie Belle, is it just me or did your-"

Her lack of sleep and general lethargy from relaxing with family and friends notwithstanding, Sweetie Belle moved with speed to impress Rainbow Dash as she threw herself across Apple Bloom to clap a hand over Scootaloo's mouth.

"Finish that thought, Scootaloo, and I will practise my chokehold on you."

When she released her friend, the athlete said, "Geez, I thought you were the one that cared about stuff like that."

"Not anymore."

"But-"

"Not anymore. I'm tired and cranky and chokehold practise."

Scootaloo stopped talking when a slightly crazed glint entered Sweetie Belle's eye. Apparently satisfied that her orange-skinned friend would not attempt to speak on that topic again, she settled back into her seat. Apple Bloom shook with barely constrained laughter.

"Now that that's settled, Button will be coming over with Mrs. Love Tap. They're going to bring lunch, so we just need sides and drinks. They should be here in an hour or so."

"You girls hang out and catch up. I'll make a shopping run." Sunset glanced around the living room. "We should move the love seat over. The kitchen isn't big enough for everyone."

"Ah'll help, seein' as how Ah'm not busy with the baby right now."

With Apple Bloom's assistance, Sunset moved the television into the far corner and then shifted the love seat, making a loose circle of furniture. "Okay, I should be quick. Any preferences?"

Each Crusader had a different request, which Sunset noted into her mobile. Rarity, still cradling her niece, asked for some iced tea and a side salad.

The closest place to shop was a convenience store and petrol station that serviced all of the farms in the area when their residents did not want to make large shopping trips into the city. It was well-stocked with a variety of groceries and treats and was open twenty-four hours. The staff all knew Sunset by sight, having seen much of her during Sweetie Belle's 'cravings period,' which had lasted most of the second half of her pregnancy.

Not knowing what Love Tap had planned for lunch, Sunset only picked up the requested items. They represented a decent range of options, such as potato crisps, a bagged salad, potato salad, and a few sweets for dessert. Making salad would have been quick, but that would have required more time in the kitchen away from her friends. She added a few things she knew Love Tap and Button Mash liked; as she grabbed a couple bottles of soda and some lemon-infused green tea, she realised it looked like she was preparing for a cookout.

The clerk, a young man who belonged to one of the local families, was eyeing Sunset as he scanned her purchases. She ignored it when she did not feel any inappropriate thoughts from him, giving him a friendly, non-inviting smile as she paid.

"Your roommate doing okay?"

"So far. The baby's finally on a good sleeping schedule, so we can both actually get more than six hours of sleep at a time ... most nights."

"Best of luck to you. Need any help carrying your bags?"

"No, thanks. Have a good day."

Despite not having any other customers needing to ring up groceries at the moment, he did not stare at her as she left. Sunset heard him straightening a rack of tool parts.

'If only more guys could actually control themselves.'

'And lose our influence? Come on, Sunny, we could have that boy jumping through flaming hoops and eating from our hand if you wanted.'

'Nnnope.'

Sweetie Belle was holding Pixie when Sunset returned, as Rarity was displaying an outfit to her sister. It was a dress, the design relatively simple. It took some time to explain it to Rarity, but Sweetie Belle had never been opposed to 'girly' things.

"I was thinking you would look amazing in matching clothes," she explained, laying the larger dress across her lap before producing a much smaller one in similar design. The colours were different to match their intended wearers, but still complemented each other. "I had hoped to do something a little fancier, but I wasn't sure it would be appropriate. We wouldn't want long ribbons to cause an accident, would we?"

"I think they're beautiful, Rarity. Thank you. I'll make sure to send you a picture when we get a chance to try them."

A little boredom showed on her face as Apple Bloom asked, "Hey, Sweetie Belle, ya told me one of the workers gave ya a present fer Pixie, didn't ya? Can we see it?"

"I'll get it," Sunset offered, dropping the groceries on the table. She retrieved the rosary from the bedroom and returned to offer it to Apple Bloom.

The cowgirl held it, feeling the beads and examining the cross. "It's one of them Catholic things, ain't it?"

"Well, he is," Sweetie Belle explained. "He knows we aren't, but it's the thought that counts."

"That's awesome. Do a lot of people like Pixie?"

Sweetie Belle relayed the stories of her various walks and Pearl's enthusiasm for how the baby made her staff more cheerful. Sunset returned to the kitchen to store the groceries, Rarity excusing herself to assist.

When the few items needing refrigeration were chilling and the rest were placed neatly on the counter, Rarity whispered, "She seems so happy."

"Sweetie Belle or Pixel Bit?"

"Both. I know how much you've done to help and how difficult it has been, but I still never expected things to work out as well as they have. Thank you for taking her side."

Before Sunset could reply, someone rang the doorbell, which woke Pixie. As Sweetie Belle hushed the baby, Sunset opened the door to allow Love Tap and Button Mash. The former had a sympathetic look, the latter a guilty one. He was also holding a grocery bag.

"I thought I told you guys to let yourselves in," Sunset said. "You're always welcome."

"I'll remember next time," Button muttered, allowing his mother to usher him into the apartment.

"Why don't you go help?" Love Tap suggested. "I'm sure Sunset and I can take care of the food."

He gave the bag to Sunset, looking somewhat relieved as he scurried into the living room to take a seat next to Sweetie Belle.

"I brought hot dogs and hamburgers, if that's okay."

"I think everyone else was already expecting something like a cookout, so that's great."

They found Rarity still in the kitchen, peeking around the corner at the younger teens. When Sunset cleared her throat, Rarity straightened and turned to give give both a smile.

"My apologies," she breathed, "I was curious to see how that young man would handle himself. He's always so cautious when I'm here."

"Button's taken to it pretty well," Love Tap replied. "I think he's gotten the hang of things; he'll get more enthusiastic when Pixie settles back down."

She scooted next to Rarity to join her in watching Button and Sweetie Belle, both leaving Sunset to her own devices. Sunset rolled her eyes, but she had a smile and could not blame the two for their antics. If anything, they were more amusing to watch than the young parents.

The food was not yet cooked, though it was not even eleven. Sunset guessed that Love Tap had wanted to get there as soon as possible, since she relished spending as much time as she could with her granddaughter. She had endeared herself to Sunset when she never once made off-hand comments about her age or objected to being called 'grandmum' when one was speaking to the baby.

Assuming Love Tap and Rarity would find their way to the living room of their own volition, Sunset returned to take back her seat. Though they could have squeezed themselves together on the couch, Apple Bloom had shifted to kneel beside Sweetie Belle. Her move left space for Button to sit comfortably. He held Pixie, showing much more confidence in his ability to protect her than he had after her birth.

"She already had breakfast," Sweetie Belle was commenting. "Since she's settling down, I don't think she's hungry or anything. She was probably just startled by the doorbell."

"Sorry about that."

"Oh, she'll be fine."

Not one of the teens had noticed the two sets of eyes and matching smirks that were being the opposite of subtle. After a minute or so, Love Tap did catch Sunset's eye before nodding toward the front door.

Sunset nodded in reply and excused herself, not that any of the teens noticed. Love Tap led the way out the door, Rarity following with the look of one taking the walk to the principal's office.

They made themselves comfortable around the lawn table. Sunset watched as her companions stared at one another, neither speaking. She discarded tens of conversation starters over the next few seconds, deciding it would be best to stay in the background.

Love Tap was the first to speak. "Sweetie Belle mentioned that you've been visiting. She's shown me the outfits you've been making for her and Pixie. Button has been telling me how you've helpful been, and I'm glad you've been around. I also need to apologise; I thought your visit at the hospital had been a one-time thing."

"Yes, well, she is my little sister. While this may not have been the way I had hoped to become an aunt, I felt it would do no good to deny it and cut myself out of their lives."

"I was surprised when Sweetie Belle messaged me about why you wanted to get together today. I didn't realise you haven't said anything to Button before now, though I guess I should have known; Button never said anything about it."

"I had not mentioned it before now because I knew I was on thin ice with all of you. Even a single misspoken word would ruin my credibility, and it is much easier to misunderstand someone when you do not trust them. I hope by now they will both understand that I merely wish to be able to acknowledge him as the father of my niece."

"If that's all, then I'm sure you'll be fine. Though I have to say, I think those two are the only ones that didn't know you knew.

"I do have one other thing to bring up. I apologise if it seems like I'm prying, but I think I have a right to know: What's the situation with your family?"

At the question, Rarity blushed and looked at the grass. "They want nothing to do with Sweetie Belle. She is a persona non grata. They do not know who Pixie's father is, nor do they care."

Love Tap sighed. "Sunset and Sweetie Belle told me she had been kicked out when they came to tell us about the baby, but I didn't push for details. We would have taken her in, but once I knew that she would be safe and well-cared-for...."

"Perhaps it would be best to change topics, darling?"

"I agree. The clothes you've been making for both of them are wonderful. How do you find the time for it with your classes?"

"Well, to be honest, I hardly find it difficult. When I am 'in the zone,' as it were, it is almost magical how things come together with only a gentle bit of guidance on my part.

"That said, I find it is much easier when I work my craft for others. It was something I should have noticed long ago, but designing and making fashionable clothing for my family and friends makes my muse sing.

"Even then, there are only so many hours in a day ... or a night. Since this is also my major, I must confess that I sometimes 'kill two birds with one stone.' If a project strikes me with inspiration for something that would suit one of my friends, I submit it first and then give it to them after I receive my marks."

"Your designs have become more ... elegant, I guess you could say, lately."

Rarity smiled. "Ah, yes, the changes reflect a growing understanding of what my sister likes. Though it shames me to admit it now, I once used her as nothing more than a dress-up doll and never once listened to her preferences. While I do prefer to design formal wear, I have found that I enjoy working with 'rough-and-tumble.'"

"With talent like yours, I'm sure you'll get into the big leagues someday," Love Tap said with the first bit of genuine warmth she had ever shown toward Rarity. "I'm always excited to see what new things you've made for one or both of them."

"Big leagues?" Rarity's eyes widened. "Oh, no, darling. I want to be successful, but I would rather stay local. Too many of world-famous designers lose touch with the ... 'common' market. I would much rather be middle-class to create for clients I can know on a personal level than become rich and famous and alone."

"I understand how dreams can change. When I was little, I'd say I was somewhere between Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle in temperament. Even then, I was somewhat traditional: I wanted to be a mum, but I wasn't into the whole 'stay-at-home' thing. I got interested in computers and programming and engineering from Chip, who loved everything to do with it since he was seven. When we were eight, I was sure we'd build a company with our kids and become fabulously rich. Well, we didn't build a company or become fabulously rich, and I did become a stay-at-home mother. I've never once regretted it."

Rarity gave a little squeal of excitement. "I absolutely adore childhood friend romances."

The serious expressions softened as all three shared grins. The image of Love Tap as a little girl chasing young Chip was one Sunset knew from stories and photographs her older friend had shared. While Rarity had known the family through her sister for years, only her recent changes had caused her to be willing to have much to do with them.

"So," Rarity cleared her throat before continuing, "on the topics of fashion and childhood friend courtship, has there been any discussion about, er, marriage between our dear young lovebirds? I do so hope Sweetie Belle will allow me to design her wedding dress. Whenever I think of it, I have so many ideas." She caught herself as she began to leave them for whatever metaphysical plane her mind occupied when she was thinking of designs. With another blush, one for more pleasant reasons, she added, "Such an event is a few more years down the road, of course, but it never hurts to be thinking of it in advance."

"Neither of them has said anything about it to me." Love Tap glanced at Sunset, who shook her head. "I haven't brought it up. Trying to force them together isn't going to be good for any of them, Pixie included."

"Why is that, darling? I would think you would want to see them together, after all."

"I do, but I've also seen what happens in several of those 'shotgun weddings.' Families fill their heads with the idea of 'making it right' and force them together before they're ready. Far too many end up unhappy because of that. Children are very perceptive; the ones in those situations will grow up feeling that tension. I would rather they be separate if that's what they both believe will make them happier so that Pixie can have two parents who love her, not married parents who are constantly at each other's throats."

Rarity nodded. "I can appreciate your point, but consider their appearance in the future. Society may be changing, but not many share your viewpoint yet. I would hate for them to face harsh words just because of their situation."

"That would be one of the things they'll need to work out. When the discussion comes up, I have a list of things for them each to consider. That said, I don't think Button has much interest in any other girls. He's been quite smitten with Sweetie Belle ever since they met, even if he doesn't quite realise it yet. As it stands now, they're a lot like my husband and I when we were their ages."

"I'm pretty sure Sweetie Belle feels the same way," Sunset added, finally having a chance to join the conversation. "A couple months ago, she fell asleep with a notebook open on the coffee table. It had their names written in hearts and stuff like that. And a lot of glitter."

The representatives of the two families gave the biggest smiles to grace their faces since they had been peeking into the living room from the kitchen.

"Rarity, do you know about the arrangements we've made for them both to spend time together with Pixie?"

"You mean shipping the three of them between your homes? Yes, I have heard about that. Is it working well?"

"Sweetie Belle is a dear when she comes to our house ... well, most of the time, anyway. During finals, she got a bit snippy, but we all understood how stressed she was. A few gentle reminders and a back rub calmed her down."

"Button Mash is definitely shaping up to be a good father," Sunset added. "He's always ready to do what he can to help, no matter if it's feeding, changing, or playing. He even does a lot of the cooking and cleaning, like a househusband or something. He'll get into his games, but he always stops when Pixie starts crying, even if Sweetie Belle is dealing with it."

"I am delighted to hear that. My greatest concern was that they would be overwhelmed."

"They've had a few arguments, but they've always worked out their problems," Love Tap said. "Most of them even without anyone else getting involved. Usually, all it takes is for one or the other to start crying before they're apologising."

"Just be very careful how you use the word 'mistake,'" Sunset warned. "Button was playing with Pixie and said he'd made a mistake with her onesie. Sweetie Belle misheard him and was pretty high-strung from being tired. I think you can guess how that went."

Rarity winced. "Yes, I can imagine. So, if they are moving between your homes, why were they separate today?"

"Originally, we were fully trading off, but that was getting hard on them. Now that it's summer, we're taking a couple weeks off. Pixie will be staying with us next week so Sweetie Belle can get some rest. She insisted Button take a week off first, but I think she's just nervous about being separated from her baby overnight, even after all these months of leaving her with Sunset. It's not like I don't understand; Chip can tell you how hard it was for me to leave Gibson the first few times."

"That is a wonderful idea. I am pleased for both of them that they have so much support."

"They may be parents, but they are young. They've handled this far better than I had hoped for when I first learned about it. Chip and I have never intended for us or Sunset to take all of the responsibility for them, but it's never even been an issue. That said, we do want our granddaughter to have a good life, so we're doing what we can to help them get through school. I know Sunset has been doing a lot for them as well, what with babysitting and tutoring. They haven't needed daycare yet."

Rarity smiled, but there was a little sadness in her eyes. "Being here, I see what I nearly cost myself. Still, the past is the past."

The door opened as Button poked his head out to call to them, "The girls are making lunch. Should I stop them?"

The three adults sped into the kitchen, where Sweetie Belle had just set the oven to 'broil' and was placing the hamburgers and hot dogs on a rimless baking sheet. Scootaloo was taking her turn to hold the baby, trying to look cool while doting on the infant. Apple Bloom had opened the salad and drenched it in two different dressings, all still in the bag. The vegetables did not look to be pleased with their new pool, already turning into a soggy mess.

When questioned, Sweetie Belle explained that she had read about broiling and that cooking in an oven helped to remove fat. Apple Bloom revealed that her grandmother had mixed salads in that same manner for some time, since tossing them was getting harder for her. Nothing was ruined, though Rarity obtained Sunset's blessing to make her own salad from the refrigerator's contents. They all had a good laugh as Sunset turned off the oven.

Love Tap cooked the meat in a dripping pan on the range, as she fully understood Sweetie Belle's desire to avoid much grease and other fattening agents. The young mother went to the bedroom to feed Pixie, which her friends insisted upon watching despite having seen it multiple times. She was not particularly hesitant about it, used to having Sunset or Love Tap or even Button Mash present. They shut themselves into the bedroom, leaving Button Mash at Rarity's mercy.

He seemed to realise it, if the fact that he immediately started playing a game on his mobile before she noticed that he was alone was any indication. It proved not to be an impenetrable shield, though, as she sat next to him.

"Do you have anything you would like to say?"

"N-Not really," he stammered back, eyes glued to his game. "You know, things happen, and then we all forget it happened and move along, right?"

Rarity placed a hand on his shoulder. "I promise, I'm not mad at you, Button."

He finally lowered his game, though he still did not look at Rarity. "Really?"

"I was at first. I was worried that you would abandon my sister when things became difficult. I now realise you are exactly the young man I would want to be with her for this. You've done quite well at helping with Pixel Bit. Thank you for keeping at it."

Button Mash looked embarrassed, but he finally met Rarity's eyes. "Sweetie Belle is my best friend. I didn't think about what would happen, but I'd still want to help her even if Pixie wasn't my daughter. She was the only one to be nice to me in primary school, and she got her friends to be friends with me, too. I've always liked hanging out with her."

"I'm glad to know how much you care, dear. I apologise for interrupting your game."

"That's okay. Thanks for, you know, not being mad."

Rarity gave him a little pat on the shoulder before leaving him. Love Tap shot her a thumbs-up before returning to the food.

Everything was ready to eat by the time the girls returned. Apple Bloom was trying to burp Pixie, apparently not noticing the drool soaking into the sleeve of her shirt. Sunset just rolled her eyes. When Pixie released a loud burp, Apple Bloom gasped.

"Hah, beat that, Scootaloo."

"Hey, Sweetie Belle, how long 'til she'll be hungry again?"

"I am not letting you two having a burping contest with my baby."

As the Crusaders argued the impromptu contest, Love Tap giggled. "I can see Pixie is receiving a lot of positive influence."

They enjoyed lunch together, passing the baby so that different people could have a chance to cuddle her, which Sweetie Belle and Sunset both observed would likely mean a long period of sleeping later. The Crusaders and Button took her for another walk after lunch, allowing the adults to clean the dishes and to have a chance to continue their talk. With the worst of the hard feelings resolved, they could enjoy the time they spent together.

The fact that Rarity was visiting at least twice each month and was increasingly involved with her sister and her niece was a sign of positive change. Sunset believed that the young woman she had once called a dear friend was finally becoming one again.

They idled through the afternoon until it was approaching the time for Sunset to become Sparky to attend the Consilium Forum. The Crusaders returned, all glowing from the sun and smelling of the fruits and the grains they had visited. Pixel Bit was sleeping, the jostles of her father carrying her up the steps not able to disturb her slumber wrought by the day's activity.

"I must be getting back to the dorm," Rarity said, the first to leave. "Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, Love Tap offered to give you a ride."

"We aren't going home tonight," Scootaloo replied. "Sunset said we could stay with Sweetie Belle."

Though she remembered no such thing, Sunset nodded. No doubt something Sweetie Belle had planned with her friends, she was quite willing to participate in the interest of allowing the girl to spend more time with them. "Sorry, it completely slipped my mind."

"Very well, please don't make too much trouble for her." Before she left, Rarity paused to hug her little sister and to kiss Pixie. "I should be free again in a couple weeks. Stay well for me and please remember to send that picture."

"I will. Drive safe."

After confirming that they would be taking Pixel Bit the following weekend, Love Tap and Button Mash followed. When they were gone, Sunset turned to her friend.

"So, Sweetie Belle, when exactly did I agree to a sleepover?"

The teen gave a diabetes-inducing smile. "Didn't you? Maybe that was Pearl instead. Oh, speaking of Pearl, she wants to see you before you go to work."

Sunset did not bother to reply. She let herself into the main house and found her mentor reading a book while sipping lemonade. There was a small bottle of vodka next to the glass.

"I hear you and Sweetie Belle cooked up some plan," Sunset said, resting at a seat against the island.

Pearl closed her book with a smile. "Gotta keep ya on yer toes somehow. Since we're leavin' soon, Ah'll cut ta the chase: Ah think yer ready ta join an Order, if'n that's what ya want. Yer trainin' is just about over, so this'll be one of yer last steps. Even if'n ya ain't leanin' towards joinin' one, ya should still meet with any that's interested in ya."

"I'm guessing they'll be talking to me about it tonight, then?"

"Most likely. Ah already sent Ace a message. He'll let the other Councillors know. The ones that're interested will send the Herald ta ask fer a meetin'. Don't be surprised if'n ya have two or three. Ah can also set up fer ya ta visit the Libertine's Assembly."

Sunset replied, "I have been thinking about it, but I'd rather stick with the Consilium. Am I going to have to make a decision tonight?"

"Nah, they'll be fine if'n ya wanna take a week or two. Just don't turn down any invites. It's bad manners fer the Awakened, 'n ya might learn somethin' that'll change yer mind even if'n yer already leanin' towards one.

"Now, Ah gotta tell ya somethin' else: Ah'll be informin' the Hierarch tonight. Ya'll be meetin' with him, Night Star, 'n Lightnin' Rider next week. Yer gonna have ta swear ta abide by the Concord."

"I thought I did that when I met the Hierarch the first time?"

Pearl nodded. "That was temporary since ya'd just Awakened, puttin' ya on probation. Now that ya know what the rules are, yer gonna swear it again fer all of 'em. T'ain't nothin' ta fret over, Ah promise. It's a good chance ta let 'em get ta know ya, since ya'll get a chance ta speak with each."

"Should I dress up or anything?"

"T'ain't necessary," Pearl replied with a shrug. "It's all about what image ya wanna give, but there's a whole week ta think on it. Ya ready ta go?"

"I'll make sure the girls are settled first."

The Crusaders had shifted the love seat to reposition the television and were watching a movie. Based on the number of explosions and the numerous automobiles speeding across the screen, it was likely Scootaloo's suggestion. Pixie was sleeping in her crib, which they had somehow moved into the living room. Sunset left them some money for food, since their boundless energy meant they would eventually be hungry and she did not trust them unsupervised in the kitchen. Only two restaurants would deliver to the farm, but both had a good number of options to satisfy all three. When she was content they would not wreck the flat, Sparky left them to attend the weekly Forum.

On the way, she briefly shifted back to Sunset and called Rarity.

"Hey, sorry to call out of the blue. I just found out I'm getting promoted. It'll be announced at a company meeting next week, so I need something to wear."