Sunset Shimmer: Student of Magick

The day after Pearl's return was quiet, as most days at the farm were. Pearl spent the day working alongside her crew while Sunset read textbooks and did homework. The only class she found challenging was C Programming, which was only because her professor had the thickest accent she had ever heard and recorded his lectures into a microphone that had to be turned to the minimum possible volume without being muted. She resolved to skip the lecture recordings in the future and to research the contents herself after wasting nearly two hours of trying to take notes.

It was evening before she felt Pearl's return. Sunset had completed her work for the day to give Sparky the time needed to speak with her mentor. She had already informed Sweetie Belle that she would be asking Pearl for advise about Awakening, so she hurried into the house. Pearl went to bed early; it would have been inconsiderate to delay.

Pearl was going through her refrigerator when Sparky joined her. Her mentor spoke without a need to look at her audience. "Ya need somethin', haystack?"

"I wanted to ask you about something. I brought some dinner if that'll help."

Pearl stood and closed her refrigerator. "Ya don't gotta bribe me, but Ah appreciate it."

Sparky produced a plate of pineapple ham with steamed green beans and a baked potato on the side. Pearl nodded in appreciation, taking it to reheat.

She waited until it was ready and she was seated to ask, "What's on yer mind?"

"I'm researching how to help Sweetie Belle Awaken. Midnight's supporting it and we both confirmed it's something she wants. We're not planning to start anything until I'm fully in the Consilium, so I'm mostly just gathering information for now."

"Ah'm afraid Ah cain't offer much advise on that, but yer always welcome ta mah library. Ya want me ta ask around, see about gettin' her inta one of the Cryptopolies?"

"I don't know how effective that would be for someone who already knows about us, but I'm sure she'd be open to it."

Pearl paused to have a few bites of her dinner. "Just be careful who ya ask fer help. Part of the reason Ah got ta be the first ta ask ya ta be mah apprentice is 'cause Ace 'n Clash were responsible fer yer Awakenin'. We don't believe in 'ownin'' other folks, but most anybody that helps her Awaken is gonna be lookin' fer influence with her."

"Thanks for the advise."

They sat quietly until Pearl finished eating. As she washed the plate, she said, "Ah'm sure Midnight warned ya, but it bears repeatin': This ain't gonna be easy fer Orchid. Ah ain't never heard of a gentle Awakenin'."

Sparky sighed. "We talked about that. She's determined to see it through ... if it even happens."

Pearl sat back at the island and put a friendly hand on Sparky's shoulder. "The best way Ah've found fer dealin' with big problems like this is ta focus on somethin' else fer a spell. Ya ready fer joinin' the Consilium?"

"You know, that just takes me from 'dread what might happen to Sweetie Belle' to 'panic that I'm going to do something stupid in front of all three leaders.'"

"Exactly."

Pearl again explained why Sparky had no reason to be nervous, which did not lessen the butterflies in her stomach. It was only Thursday, but she imagined her apprehension was already much like what Fluttershy felt at all times. It was odd that she felt so nervous about it, but it was there and she could do nothing about it. Pearl likely noticed, as she changed topics again to talking about what happened while she was gone.

Sunset cheerfully related stories of Midnight and Sweetie Belle cuddling as they slept and whatever other cuteness she recalled. Pearl expressed mirth when Sunset recounted how Midnight had been adopted as Pixie's sister. She was also happy for Sunset when she learned about Trixie's visit.

When Sunset had unwound, Pearl sent her back to the flat. It was with a much lighter mind that Sunset went to bed; she was not even plagued by the usual nightmares.

Much of Friday was spent with Rarity as they put the finishing touches on Sunset's new outfit. Sunset had simply requested black with red and ease of movement. What Rarity presented was a two-piece outfit composed of a lightly flowing blouse and tights much like the outfit she had gifted Sunset before the Friendship Games. Crimson red accented the black, the whole thing designed to accentuate her figure without being an invitation to ogle her. Rather than use faux gemstones, Rarity had placed a few rhinestones at the hems of the sleeves.

"Well, darling, what do you think?" she asked once Sunset had changed and was standing before a mirror.

"It's perfect. I'm sure I'll turn heads in this."

"You already do that, I assure you. I would only suggest you straighten your hair beforehand. Don't bother with bands or ribbons, just let it flow naturally.

"I do need to make a few more adjustments, but it will be ready tomorrow morning. I'll send you a message. I'll be here all day working on projects, so come whenever you're free." She sighed reluctantly before adding, "With your payment, if you still insist."

"Thank you, Rarity."

She changed and handed the new clothing back to Rarity. They shared a quick hug before Sunset left.

The next day, Sunset and Sweetie Belle were only just finishing breakfast when Button Mash sent a message to ask what time they would be arriving. That he was awake before nine on a Saturday either meant he was eager to take Pixie or that his mother was using him as a proxy. It could have been both. In either case, Sweetie Belle replied with a promise to be there within an hour.

They were almost exactly on time. Button met them at the door, his whole family in the living room. When he reached for Pixie, Sunset was unsure Sweetie Belle would actually give her up; the teen had been growing more anxious throughout the morning. She had been the same way the first few days she left Pixie in Sunset's care to go back to school. Still, once Button had a solid grip on her, he was able to take her from Sweetie Belle's arms without struggle.

Pixie had no objections to her father holding her. She was still closest to her mother, but she had bonded well to all of her family members. The infant immediately started her favourite game as she touched his face.

"I promise to call you every night so you can say good night," Button said. "And I'll have my mobile, so you can call me whenever you want, okay?"

"You'll let me know right away if she starts to get low on milk, right? Even if it's the middle of the night? You won't use formula, will you?"

"Don't you trust me?"

Though his voice sounded hurt, he was only goading her. Years of friendship with Sweetie Belle meant that he had learned something about manipulation. It worked perfectly.

"Of course I do. I mean, except for when you overheated the milk that one time, you've been really great at taking care of her. You won't overheat the milk again, will you?"

Love Tap must have decided to intervene. She joined them and placed an arm around Sweetie Belle.

"I'm sure he learnt his lesson after he burnt his wrist with it. Now, why don't you come in?"

"We can't stay. Sunset's work is having a dinner for everyone tonight and I'm her 'plus one.' We have to get ready for it."

"Alright, you two go and have fun. Try to enjoy getting a full night's sleep. When the withdrawal gets to be too much, you're welcome to come by."

With a last, somewhat reluctant kiss to Pixie and a hug each for Button Mash and Love Tap, Sweetie Belle followed Sunset back to the car. She was fairly quiet during the ride home but perked a short while later when Rarity sent the message that Sunset's new outfit was done. She was back to chattering normally during the trip to her sister's dormitory.

Rainbow Dash was there when they arrived. She was red-faced and sweating, the result of morning practise with the soccer team. She opted to take a shower while Sunset changed and Rarity gave everything a final once-over.

Once Rarity announced the ensemble complete, they relaxed together to chat through the afternoon. The dorm only had two chairs that went with the desks, so Sweetie Belle sat on Rarity's bed with her big sister to leave the chairs for Sunset and Rainbow. Spending time with her sister and friends helped ease Sweetie Belle's anxiety just as it did Sunset's.

As evening fell, they made their farewells before going straight to the Forum from the university. Sparky was already dressed and had some light makeup to accentuate her 'best features,' courtesy of Rarity. Orchid was wearing her normal tee-shirt and jeans, since she did not have any special role to play that evening. They arrived to find Pearl, Ace, and Midnight were already present.

"Solstice Cherry will come 'n get ya when they're ready," Pearl said. "Don't let yer nerves get the best of ya. Just be yerself."

"I'll be fine. We spent the day with some friends, so that helped keep my mind off it."

Pearl and Ace both nodded. The latter said, "The Trois Fleurs cabal was looking for you, by the way. They're out back."

"Do I have time to talk to them now?"

"Trust me, our Herald will find you when it's time. I swear, it's like she has tracking spells on everyone in the Consilium."

Sparky invited Orchid to join her, since they were all former classmates. It helped that having a third party there would cause Walker to be less likely to want to pick a fight. There was no telling what the florists wanted, but Sparky was hopeful Amber Wish had put in a good word for her.

They found their quarry seated on a bench next to a flower bed. They were animatedly debating how they could have made it better. The conversation ended when they noticed the company.

"You were looking for me?"

"Amber was really happy after you guys talked," Walker replied. "She also said you got into that musician she likes. I won't say 'let's be friends,' but I guess you're not so bad."

"You can come by the sanctum sometimes if you want," Jade Mind added. "I'd like to get to know you better."

"It'd give her someone else to fangirl with." Walker grinned at her friend, who replied with a roll of her eyes.

"Thank you. You remember Orchid, don't you?"

The teen smiled. "It's a pleasure to see you again. Are you going to be attending the Forum more frequently? I'd like all of us to get to know each other better."

Jade Mind returned the smile. "I think we will. It's a good way to build relationships. We couldn't make this year's Congressus Peculiaris, but we're not going to miss next year's."

"We heard that you're officially entering the Consilium tonight," Amber Wish said. "Is that why you're dressed up? Did your fashionista friend make that for you?"

They all knew Rarity's name, but Sparky appreciated the discretion. She nodded.

"I know we don't need to dress up, but I felt like it would help me make a good impression."

"There's nothing wrong with that." Amber Wish glanced behind Sparky and then added, "Looks like they're ready. Orchid can stay and keep us company while you're back there ... if she doesn't mind."

"Sure, thanks."

Sparky turned to face Solstice Cherry. There was no need for words when they both knew why she was looking for Sparky. Both women marched quietly to the Hierarch's office, where the Herald announced her and left.

Just as she had been told, Sparky faced all three leaders. Bronze Luck sat in his normal chair, but it had been pulled back from his desk. His counterparts were on either side of him in matching seats - except that Lightning Rider's was extra wide to accommodate his massive form. They all had neutral expressions as Sparky waited for an invitation to sit.

"Please make yourself comfortable, Sparky," Bronze Luck said. When she was seated, he continued. "I imagine you are nervous about meeting with us and I am quite aware that telling you not to be will not help. Still, try to remember that most of our time here is informal."

"Bronze Luck is telling the truth," Lightning Rider added. "We started this tradition as a way to meet new members of each of our societies. It's a chance for you to talk to us, not just the other way around."

"But if you just want to sit there and be in awe of us, I have no objections." Night Star's smile showed her fangs. "It might be a little boring, but it would hardly be the first time. Most who don't use this time to try to curry favour, which is also perfectly acceptable."

Sparky had considered numerous ice-breakers, none of which seemed appropriate. All three had given her a taste of their personalities, each of them different. She decided to take Pearl's advise to be herself.

"Leading up to this, I wasn't sure what to expect. I only knew for sure that I'd be sitting in a room with three people who can rub me out without breaking a sweat. No pressure, right? I mean, it's one thing for Pearl to tell me that it's at least somewhat casual, another thing completely for the Prince of the Kindred to be making quips. I've spent the past week debating between sitting quietly and only speaking when spoken to or trying to offer some intelligent conversation, but I figure anything I have to say is something you've all heard before. In the end, I figured my best bet was to dress up a bit and then just wing the conversation."

"You're off to a good start. Your candor is amusing."

"Sparky, what do you think about being one of the Awakened?"

She looked at Lightning Rider as she replied. "The first week was crazy. I could suddenly see everyone's emotions and know what they were thinking. Random people kept popping into my life and doing impossible things before vanishing without any explanation. I was nearly killed several times, most of those because of my own foolishness. For all of that, I really wouldn't want to go back. It opened this whole new world to me, which can be terrifying and amazing at times."

The giant Werewolf looked to his counterparts. "I'm satisfied."

"As am I."

"No complaints here."

Before Sparky could ask, Bronze Luck said, "Fully joining this world is frequently a painful experience. I know you have learned of the Banishers; our allies have their own members who are unable to accept their new lives. We believe that you have found a way to balance who you were with the person you are now.

"Sparky, as you have proved yourself to be responsible and unimpeachable, will you now swear to uphold the tenets of the Concord?"

"I swear it."

"Then we welcome you into the Concord." Bronze Luck favoured her with a small smile. "That is the entirety of the formalities. You are free to go, unless you have any last thoughts to share? The floor is yours, if you wish."

"When I became Pearl's apprentice, I expected some big contract in Latin that I would have to sign in blood. I might have been expecting something like that tonight, too. Maybe it's time I stop getting my ideas from fantasy stories and movies."

"That is a common misconception."

Sparky stood and nodded to the leaders. "Tradition or not, I would like to thank each of you for taking this time and letting me get to know you."

They each nodded in return. She went back into the hallway to find Pearl waiting for her.

"That wasn't so bad, was it?"

"Not at all. Their positions and power - magickal power, I mean - make them intimidating, but they're still people. It's like sitting down with a monarch, I guess. If you're not in trouble, there's no reason to get caught up on who you're talking to."

"That's the spirit, haystack. Welcome ta the Concord. Now, if'n ya'll excuse me, Ah've gotta go talk ta somebody. Midnight's out back with Orchid; Ah'm sure she'll wanna see ya."

There was very little to say about the meeting itself. Midnight and the Trois Fleurs all welcomed Sparky as Pearl had.

When the Hierarch gave his weekly speech, the Trois Fleurs invited Sparky and Orchid to stand with them to listen. Midnight joined them, rather than stay with Pearl as she normally did. For those who noticed them, it spoke greatly of their relationship.

There was no announcement of the end of Sparky's probationary period, but news had a way of travelling quickly within the Consilium. Gossiping was a popular activity for the Awakened. Both before and during the Forum, she noticed the eyes of her peers once again evaluating her. She was 'fair game' and was known to have ties to a Councillor. She was not sure, but she expected at least a few Mages would be trying to talk to her for various reasons over the coming weeks and months.

After the speech, Sparky approached Flawless Sword before he left his post in front of the dais. He looked at her expectantly, as though no doubt existed in his mind that she would say anything other than:

"I want to join."

"Do you want to talk in a conference room?"

"Whatever works best for you ... Sir."

Rather than bother with a private space, the two sat away from the buffet table at some of the chairs along the wall. The fact that she had approached him was more than sufficient for everyone else to know what she was doing. Orchid, Pearl, and Midnight joined them, but the Trois Fleurs had to leave. They all wished Sparky well on her Order initiation before heading out for the night.

Flawless Sword gave an overview of the boot camp and what Sparky would need while attending. They did not use training uniforms, so she would need her own clothing - which he suggested should be reasonably form-fitting and disposable. Meals were provided, as was care if she were to be injured. The only surprise was that she would not be allowed any form of external communication while training, though he did state that someone would get her a message if her ward had an emergency.

"We're not heartless bastards. If Orchid needs you, I'll make sure Pearl will be able to reach someone at the camp to tell you. We've been around for two thousand years; it's not the first time we've inducted someone who has responsibilities that can't be ignored."

"Ah'll take care of things here as much as Ah can. Karen ain't gonna let anythin' come around. Orchid's got a good head on her shoulders, too, so ya can go with peace of mind. Ah figure ya'll still be worried, but try ta trust us at least a bit."

"I do. I'll be worried anyway, just like a certain someone else I know."

Orchid blushed. "I'd like to see you handle it better if you have kids."

"I would; I'm already getting all of that out of my system with you two."

"Well, I think I covered everything important. Any questions?"

"When do I leave and where do I go?"

"I'll be taking you. I'll pick you up from Pearl's this Tuesday at ten. You'll have orientation the day you arrive, and then you'll have time to get settled. Training starts Wednesday morning and ends the Wednesday night three weeks later with an induction ceremony. You'll be back here the next day.

Any further discussion stopped when Night Star settled into a chair next to Sparky. She crossed one leg over the other and fixed Sparky with what might have been a seductive grin.

"Don't you have a court to lead?" Flawless Sword asked.

"I'm the Prince. Court is in session when I call for it. What are they going to do, hold it without me? I couldn't help but notice that this pretty little specimen is talking with you, the man who thinks crawling through muck is a normal, healthy pastime. She'll come back smelling like a barnyard and with ugly scars on her flawless skin; forgive me if I wanted to make sure she wasn't being led astray."

"You Daeva would know all about leading people astray."

"We're not called the Succubi for no reason. Oh, and look at this." She turned her gaze to Orchid and Midnight. "A veritable garden of flowers so conveniently gathered together. Is it so wrong that I want to be the one to pluck them?"

Flawless Sword laughed. "Well, I know when I'm outmatched. Sparky, I'll see you Tuesday."

He and Pearl both left the girls to Night Star. The Kindred Prince licked her lips as she scooted closer to Sparky.

"Your personal stock is rising," she said quietly. "It's not every night that I take interest in someone almost unknown. Who is your cute little friend?"

"I'm Orchid."

"What a fitting name. The night is young; would you girls care to walk with me?"

She had phrased it as a request, but Sparky did not have the courage to refuse. They followed Night Star to the yard and walked to the same bridge where Sparky once talked with Ace and Clash.

"Who are you, Sparky?"

"What do you mean?"

"You Awakened at Canterlot High School in the middle of a battle for control over whatever strange magic we sensed there. After that, Pearl - who so rarely takes apprentices - jumped on the opportunity to train you. Then you made waves by defeating Midnight Radiance in a card game. Not only are you associated with three very important names in this Consilium, you have even caught Bronze Luck's eye. Were I more cynical, I would say that you excel at the game."

"What game?"

"Politics. For all the magickal power our societies can exert to influence the world around us, we are still vulnerable to Mortal foibles. No matter the gathering - a school, a religious congregation, a workplace - we compare and contrast ourselves against others. I do not believe you are seeking to make yourself an alpha woman, but you have nevertheless laid the groundwork to manoeuvre yourself into such a position. I understand you recommended the new catering company."

"That's old news, just like our poker game," Midnight interjected.

"You of all people should understand how every word and action bleeds together, no matter how many years have passed, Midnight. Numerous Hungarians still resent the West for the Budapest Massacre despite not having endured the horror of it. Do I even need to remind you of the Holocaust?"

"I might just be dense, but I'm not sure what point you're trying to make."

"My point, Sparky? You are ensnaring yourself in a web. You never intended to create it, but that is the case regardless. Make your alliances now."

"Would you believe me if I said that I'm looking to make friends instead?"

Night Star smiled, again showing her canines. "I would call that the same thing. What are friends but trusted allies with whom you share a close bond? You trust them to be there for you, to safeguard your weaknesses. How do you build and maintain an alliance?"

"By getting to know one another, finding something in common, and then building a relationship. I get it."

"Good. When you entered Bronze Luck's office, I noticed that you had selected black and crimson as your colours tonight. I also noticed that you surreptitiously mentioned dressing up. You were hoping one of us would take the bait. Had you made this yourself, you would not have mentioned it. Based on the catering referral, I take it a friend of yours is a seamstress?"

"Her name is Rarity. She's Orchid's sister."

"I was given to understand that Orchid was not in contact with her family."

"My sister apologised. We've gotten close now."

That drew a nod from the Prince. "Now that she is your friend, you hoped to display her work to someone influential. I am guessing you chose these colours by making a reasonable guess about the Kindred, as I highly doubt you knew they were my favourite colours.

"The work, the attention to detail ... this Rarity is promising. She needs more experience, but she could be a rising star ... with the right connections. Of course, my judgment is based on a single example."

"I have a picture of my daughter and me wearing dresses she made for us."

"Show me."

Night Star's face was impassive as she looked at Orchid's photographs, one of which was of Rarity holding Pixie.

"Very well, I'll bite," she said with another flash of canines. "For the record, though, we never had this conversation. You understand the concept of privilege?"

"Yes, Ma'am."

"No need for that. I'm not as formal as Bronze Luck." She glanced at the moon. "I suppose we should call it a night. The night may still be young for me, but you sun-lovers need your beauty sleep. I would hate to ruin your complexion, my pretty little flowers."

She promptly changed into a bat and flew into the night. Orchid gasped.

"I thought that was just an urban legend."

"I think it's a pretty advanced magick; I know that they can change into bats, mist, and a few other things," Midnight replied. "They have to learn it, but that's where the stories come from."

"She's right: We should head out. Orchid's expecting a call."

"That came while you were in the meeting."

After glancing around them to ensure no one would see it, Midnight gave Sparky a hug. "I probably won't see you before you leave. Good luck at the camp."

"We should have a party when she comes back. I know a certain friend of ours who'd love to help set one up. She'll need a party after going through boot camp."

"That sounds like a plan, but you can work that out later. We need to decide on my cover story."

Midnight also hugged Orchid and promised not to let her get lonely, then they returned to the Great Hall. Pearl had already gone home and Ace was waiting for his sister. He congratulated Sparky and wished her well.

Before they departed, Sparky sent messages to the Trois Fleurs to invite them to the party for her return. Jade Mind - or perhaps she was Rose at that point - replied with a promise to attend if they could.

As Sunset Shimmer and Sweetie Belle drove home, they chatted amiably about the upcoming training while planning the cover story. They decided to call it a company retreat for the first week, to be followed by a convenient 'you just missed her.' Sweetie Belle could fake Sunset's messages to their friends as needed. The third week would stretch credulity; they agreed to revisit the topic later.

"What are you going to do about school?"

"I'll figure something out."

Sweetie Belle's mobile chirped. She read the message from Button Mash that was asking for permission to invite one of his friends to meet Pixie.

"I'm glad he's letting me know, but it's not like he has to ask permission. She's his daughter, too." Sweetie Belle sighed. "It's not like Rumble would be a problem."

"Who's he?"

"You don't know him? He's in my year and helped make sure the other boys didn't do anything mean to Button after everyone found out that we were gonna have Pixie."

"I've never met any of Button's friends. You guys were too far removed for me to have much contact with you."

"Oh, yeah. He's a jock, but not like the stereotypical ones. I only know him through Button, but he's always been nice. Oh, Button says he has a big crush on Scootaloo. She hasn't noticed; he's too shy to talk to her when we're not together."

"Aww, our Scootaloo's growing up fast; she's already caught a boy's eye." Sunset laughed. "You have no idea how badly I want to learn to make a love potion and give it to her after that little comment about me being an old maid."

"Don't even think about it. I know where you sleep."

Sunset had been keeping her eyes on the road throughout their playful banter, properly stopping when she reached a stop sign. Another vehicle hit the back of hers, pushing them into the intersection where a pickup truck that had the through lane struck near the driver's side door. The car ceased its motion upon meeting the stop sign, not that either occupant was conscious to notice.