Chapters Children of the Star-Another Sunset
“And stay out, ya little bastard!” The door slammed and Sunset struggled to pick herself up off the ground. She looked back at the door to what had been her home with tears in her eyes.
“Granny!” Sunset cried, looking up at the door, ignoring the pain in her scraped knees. No answer came from behind the door and Sunset started to cry, shivering in the cold, night air.
After crying herself out, Sunset rose to her feet, glancing at her surroundings. She started walking down the street, wincing from her scraped knees with every step. She followed the street lamps, not knowing where to go.
“H-hello?” Sunset called, looking around, frowning when she didn't see anyone. She walked down the street, hugging herself. “Mom… why did you have to leave?” she asked, continuing to wander aimlessly. Eventually, she paused at an alleyway, seeing a waiter from a restaurant tossing out a bag of garbage into a dumpster.
Staring at it for a moment, she moved over, pulling the bag out of the dumpster. Tearing up, she ripped it open, rummaging around for food. Eventually, she found a burger that looked untouched except for some mashed potatoes that had spilled onto it. Resisting the urge to toss it away, she took a bite, swallowing it as quickly as possible. Her face scrunched up and she resisted the disgust building in the pit of her stomach. Her hunger compelled her to finish the burger, shuddering when she did.
“Why does Granny hate me?” Sunset asked, walking further down the alley. She spotted a box, crawling inside of it. It was surprisingly roomy, enough to let her sit up without issue. “Did I do something bad?” She hugged herself, wracking her brain for a reason for all this.
“It doesn't matter...” She laid down, hugging her knees. “I'm just a bad person...” Somehow, she drifted off to sleep, sniffling softly.
Sunset peeked out from her hiding spot, waiting for the waiter to bring out the trash. She had no idea how long she had been in the alley, only that her PJs were dirty and starting to fall apart. She shivered, a cold wind nipping at her skin through the holes in her pajamas. Finally, the waiter appeared and she had to keep herself from drooling.
She moved closer, only to slip on a candy wrapper, face planting on the ground. “Owie...” She groaned, pushing herself to her elbows.
“Are you okay?” a voice asked, causing Sunset to freeze as she was helped to her feet. She trembled, lifting her head up to look at the waiter.
“Umm… I’m fine,” Sunset said weakly, pulling away from the waiter.
The waiter frowned, looking her over. His eyes widened as he noticed the box behind her, along with the blanket resting inside it. “Have you been... living out here?”
“O-of course not.” Sunset blushed, her eyes darting side to side.
“Hey.” He reached out, gently taking her hand. “Let’s get you something to eat, okay?” Sunset sighed, letting herself be led by the adult. He led her inside, sitting her at a table. “Hey, Chilli!” he called, looking towards the kitchen .
“What is it?!” a voice called back.
“I know we’re closing up but, you mind cooking up one last meal?”
“And why should I do that? I gotta get home to the family!”
“Well, I found a little girl out back. I think she’s been living out there.”’
“That’s awful! Okay, I’ll cook her up something tasty. Ask her what she’d like!”
“What would you like, sweetheart?” the waiter asked with a smile, looking down at Sunset.
“Umm, grilled cheese and tomato soup?” Sunset asked, not looking the waiter in the eyes.
“One grilled cheese and some tomato soup!” the waiter called back before sitting with her. “What's your name?”
“Sunset Shimmer,” she answered, fidgeting with her pajamas.
“My name's Quick Quill, It’s nice to meet you.” He smiled. “Do you know how long you’ve been out there?” Sunset shook her head and frowned.
“No, I haven’t been able to look at any calendars or anything. The days just blurred together.”
“Alright.” He nodded. “Can I ask where your parents are?”
“I don’t have a dad and my mom is dead,” Sunset answered, her frown deepening as she stared down at the table.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” He reached out, putting a hand on her shoulder. “Will you be okay by yourself for a few minutes?” Sunset just nodded, not looking away from the table. “I'll be right back.” He got to his feet, moving over to the phone. Sunset knew he was probably calling the cops, what else was he supposed to do with a worthless little girl like her? He returned as promised with her food in tow. She thanked him and ate in silence, waiting for the police to come and take her away.
Her suspicions were confirmed as a pair of officers arrived not too long afterward. One went to talk to Quill, while the other kneeled in front of her.
“Your name is Sunset right?” The officer asked, giving her an easy smile. She nodded, pushing her plate away from her and not looking at the cop. “My name is Night Light, it’s nice to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you,” she mumbled. “What’s gonna happen to me now?”
“My partner and I are gonna take you down to the station and get you a shower and some clean clothes,” he explained, “How's that sound?
“That sounds alright,” Sunset replied, putting a hand in her tangled up hair. He stood back up, holding his hand out to her. She took it and stood up, knowing she didn’t have much of a choice.
“We ready to go, Air?” Night asked, turning to his partner.
“Yes, I have all the details this man could provide,” his partner replied in an even voice, turning towards Night Light.
“Take care, Sunset,” Quill said, watching the three leave the restaurant. Sunset got in the back of the police car and watched the street lights blur by.
“You know,” Night Light started, “I have a little girl too. She’s only about five, her name is Twilight.”
“That’s nice,” Sunset said, still looking out the window. Night frowned but let her sit, quietly driving to the station.
Once they arrived, Night took her inside, letting her take a shower while they got her some clothes.
“Don’t feel too bad about her dismissing you earlier,” Air said. “She’s just scared out of her mind.”
“I know, it’s just... hard seeing a kid like that...” Night sighed, placing a fresh set of clothes on a bench outside of the showers.
“Bad things happen to good people,” Air said. “That’s why we’re here in the first place. To keep as many bad things from happening as possible.”
Night nodded, walking out of the room. “Did you call CPS?”
“Already taken care of. They should be sending someone down soon.”
The sound of the shower stopped and after a few minutes, Sunset stuck her head out of the doorway. “I'm finished.”
“Okay, there’s clothes waiting for you on that bench,” Night told her, pointing at the bench. She swiped them, then a few moments later stepped out, adjusting her shirt. “You look good, can we get you anything else while we wait for someone else to arrive?”
“No, thank you.” She shook her head, not meeting his gaze.
“Okay, just tell us if you need anything.” Night and Air sat close by as they waited for CPS to arrive. She went quiet again, hugging her knees. Eventually, a middle aged woman came in, her hair done up in a bun and glasses. She walked over to the trio and sat down. “Are you Sunset Shimmer?”
“Uh huh,” was Sunset's quick response.
“I’m here to help you,” the woman said. “How did you end up on the street?”
“My mom died and Granny didn't want me.”
“So your granny threw you out?” The woman asked, motioning for the two cops to be ready.
Sunset nodded. “She called me a bad word.”
“Do you know your granny’s name?” Night asked, clenching his fist at the story.
“Moonglow Shimmer,” Sunset muttered, looking at her feet. The woman nodded.
“Okay, I’m going to have a chat with these two officers, why don’t you try and get some sleep? Someone will show you a nice and comfy place you can rest up. I’ll be back to talk to you soon.”
Sunset nodded. “Okay.” She rose to her feet, never lifting her gaze. Another officer came and led her away, while the woman pinched her brow.
“So, I think we need to go and have a chat with one Moonglow Shimmer,” she said.
“Damn right we do.” Night Light clenched his jaw, looking like he was about to explode.
“I think it’s best if she does most of the talking, Night,” Air cut in. “You’ve got too much of a personal investment in this. You don’t want to get in trouble with the higher ups if you wanna make commissioner.”
“You're right, you're right.” Night Light let out a long sigh. “We’re ready to go when you are, Ma’am.”
“Good, I’ll let you lead the way in your cruiser then.” She stood up and walked towards the door. Night Light quickly obtained Moonglow’s address before leading the social worker to her home. The social worker knocked on the door of her house, straightening her glasses on her face.
“Yes?” An older woman, presumably Moonglow, asked, cracking the door open.
“Are you Moonglow Shimmer?” the social worker asked. “My associates and I would like to have a word with you.”
“That's me,” Moonglow said, opening the door, “Have I done something wrong?” The three walked inside.
“Well, we found a little girl by the name of Sunset tonight,” the social worker said. “She claims that you kicked her out.”
Moonglow stiffened. “I assure you, I did no such thing.”
“Then could you let us see your granddaughter?” Air asked calmly. “After all, she should be here if you didn’t kick her out.”
“S-she’s not here,” Moonglow assured, “She’s at a summer camp.”
“It’s Fall,” Night Light deadpanned.
“Fine, I threw the little bastard out,” Moonglow admitted, spitting the words out in disgust.
“Child abandonment is a serious crime,” the social worker stated.
“I'm old, not stupid,” Moonglow countered.
“I’d beg to differ,” Night muttered.
“What was that?”
“Nothing,” Night said.
“Why would you throw your own granddaughter out onto the streets?” the social worker asked with a frown.
“Because, her mother went to that filthy clinic and had her,” Moonglow spat.
“I assume you mean a fertility clinic?”
“I certainly didn’t mean an abortion clinic,” Moonglow said. “I still have that flyer she showed me.”
“We’ll need to see it,” the worker informed her. Moonglow nodded and walked over to a nearby desk and rummaged through it. She handed over a pamphlet to one Nebula fertilization clinic.
“So, am I under arrest?” Moonglow asked.
“I think we both know the answer to that.” The worker gestured to Night Light who stepped forward, pulling out his cuffs.
Sunset stared out of her window, watching the clouds roll by. She had been at her new foster home for about two weeks and despite the efforts of her foster family, the most she had done was sit here. The Zests, the couple that took her in, ran a music store downstairs, but she had only been down a few times. She let out a sigh, glancing over at a picture of her and her mother. The two of them were at the beach and throwing up peace signs with large smiles.
“Sunset?” her social worker, Mrs. Soft Heart called from the doorway, giving a light knock.
“Oh, hi Mrs. Soft Heart,” Sunset said, standing up from her seat by the window. “Are you here to check in on me again?”
“Yes, but,” she moved over, sitting on the bed, “I have something to talk to you about.”
“What is it?” Sunset asked with a tilt of her head as she sat next to her.
“We did some digging.” She turned, looking into the girl’s eyes. “Sunset, we found your father.”
“Huh… my dad?” Sunset asked, blinking in confusion.
“That's right Sunset.” Soft Heart nodded. “He was very surprised to find out about you.”
“He knows about me?” Sunset gasped.
“He does now.” Soft Heart smiled. “He wants you to live with him.”
“But… what about the Zests?” Sunset asked, toying with the bottom of her shirt.
“Do you want to stay here?” Soft asked.
“I don’t know,” Sunset admitted with a frown. “I mean, I’ve always thought about my dad, but the Zests went out of their way for me. C-can I meet my dad first before I decide?”
“Of course you can, sweetie.” Soft smiled soothingly. “Does next week sound good?” Sunset nodded and smiled.
“Mhmm, that sounds really good. What’s my dad’s name?”
“His name is Star Dust and he’s a very smart man.”
“Wow, Star Dust, that’s a cool name,” Sunset said, starting to picture her father. “I can’t wait to meet him.”
“I know he can’t wait to meet you.” Soft smiled, looking at her.
“Thanks for doing this for me, Mrs. Soft,” Sunset said and smiled up at the social worker.
“Of course, Sunset, it’s no problem at all. Now, how has your week been?”
“It’s been pretty good,” Sunset replied. “The Zests are nice and Mrs. Zest made me a cupcake with frosting that matched my hair color last night because I helped with the dishes.”
“That was nice of her.”
“Yeah, it was really tasty,” Sunset said with a nod. “Mrs. Zest says she might even teach me how to make one just like it.”
“Do you like it here, Sunset?”
“I think so,” Sunset said. “I mean, I still miss my mom a lot, but the Zests are really nice.”
“Have you made any friends?”
“One, this pink girl that seems to like coming to the store a lot. She’s super hyper and a little weird though.”
“Does she have a name?”
“It was really long, but she said I should just call her Pinkie Pie,” Sunset replied.
“I’m glad you made a friend.” Soft Heart smiled at her. “What about the Zest’s daughter?”
“She says I’m her sister now so that doesn’t count as a friend,” Sunset replied with a giggle.
“I take it you two have been getting along?”
“Yeah, she’s a ton of fun,” Sunset said. “And she loves music.”
“That's wonderful,” Soft Heart said, standing up. “Thank you for answering my questions.”
“You’re welcome, see you soon Mrs. Soft Heart,” Sunset said, waving at her. Soft Heart waved back, walking out of the room.
The week passed agonizingly slowly for Sunset, and she found her apprehension growing as the date grew closer to the meeting. Finally, there was a knock at the door of the music shop after closing and Sunset rushed over to open it. Standing there was a green man with a warm smile, wearing a thick pair of glasses and a sweater.
“Hello, are you Sunset Shimmer?” he asked.
“Uh... um...” she stared up at him, suddenly tongue tied. He just smiled and chuckled.
“I’m Star Dust, it’s very nice to meet you.”
“N-nice to meet you...” Sunset muttered, casting her gaze at the floor. He knelt down, putting a hand on her shoulder.
“There’s no need to be scared, I’d never hurt you. Heck, I don’t think I could even hurt a fly.” She nodded, but couldn't bring herself to look at him. “You’re quite a lovely little girl,” he said. “Lucky for you you didn’t get any of my looks,” he joked and tugged on his glasses. That got a short giggle out of Sunset. His smile grew. “Why don’t you show me your room here? I’d like to talk to you more and get to know my daughter.”
She nodded, quietly leading him upstairs. The Zests were already upstairs, waiting for them.
“Hello,” Star Dust greeted. “I’m Star Dust, thank you for taking care of Sunset for all this time.” He held out a hand to them.
“I’m Orange Zest and this is my wife, Lime Zest,” Mr. Zest introduced, shaking his hand.
“And believe me, it was no trouble at all,” Mrs. Zest added. Star Dust smiled and pulled his hand away from the two.
“I’m glad to hear it. I didn’t know what to think when I was first told about Sunset’s situation. I had almost forgotten about donating a sample to that clinic. But after some thought and talking it over with my significant other, June Bug, we both thought it was best that I did my duty as a father and took care of Sunset.”
“Why don't the two of you get to know each other?” Mrs. Zest offered, “We’ll get dinner ready.”
“Don’t mind if I do,” Star replied. “I’m sure if your food is as well prepared as your store, then I’m in for a treat.”
“We’ll blow your socks off!” Mr. Zest assured, heading downstairs.
“So, do you have any questions for me, Sunset?” Star Dust asked, looking down at her. “I mean, this has to be quite a lot to take in.”
“Um...” she shuffled quietly, not sure what to say.
“Why don’t I start?” He chuckled and sat on the edge of her bed. “What do you like to do for fun?”
“I like to read...” Sunset muttered.
“I like to read too,” he said with a bright smile. “June Bug complains that I have my nose buried in books far too often.” He glanced around the room, his eyes landing on the picture on her night stand. “Is that your mom? She’s very pretty.”
Sunset stiffened, biting her tongue. He saw her expression and his look fell. Deciding to take a chance, he pulled her into a hug.
“I know you miss her very much. But she’s not really gone as long as you remember her.”
“Why?” She asked, not hugging him back.
“Why what?” He asked, confused.
“You’re supposed to be my dad but you’ve never been there. I don't understand, didn’t you and mom love each other?”
Caught off guard, Star took a minute to compose himself. “How about I explain it, okay?”
“Okay,” Sunset replied, looking up at him. He sat back down, pulling her into his lap.
“See, a few years ago, I didn't think I’d ever meet my special someone. I was a very busy man. So, I went to a place where a man can...” He searched for the right words. “Donate a tiny bit of himself. Your mom took that tiny bit and made you, but we never met.”
“...People can do that?” Sunset asked in awe and confusion. “Just… make a baby without ever meeting each other?”
“It's not exactly that simple, but yeah.” He nodded, pulling her into another hug. “And I know I haven’t been there for you before, but I want to be from now on. You’re my daughter, Sunset. You deserve to be raised in a good home. And this one seems very good. So, the choice is yours, do you want me to be a part of your life?”
Sunset raised her head, looking up at him. She studied his face before answering. “Yes. Yes I do.” She wrapped her arms around him, returning his hug. A tear threatened to spill down his cheek.
“Thank you, Sunset. I promise to be the best father I can be.”
“I’ll be the best daughter ever,” she counter-promised.
“Just be yourself and you’ll succeed at that,” Star said with a smile, stroking the back of her head.
“Who’s June Bug?”
“Well, at first she was my lab assistant,” Star said with a chuckle. “And now she’s my significant other. And hopefully when I find the right moment,” he pulled out a small case and revealed a ring, “she’ll be a bit more than that.”
“So...” Sunset looked at the box. “She’s gonna be my new mom?”
“Well, she’d be your stepmother,” Star said, rubbing the back of his neck. “But don’t think I’d try to replace your mother in your heart.” Sunset nodded, resting against him.
“What do you do?”
“I’m an astrophysicist,” Star Dust replied. “Technically I should’ve introduced myself as Dr. Star Dust to the Zests.”
“What's an astro-psychic?” She asked, blinking.
“It means I study space,” he answered with a chuckle, ruffling her hair. She giggled, giving him a smile.
“That sounds amazing!”
“I’ve certainly enjoyed it.” He smiled back at her. “How would you like it if I let you take a look at images from one of our satellite telescopes? I believe it has a nice view of the Horsehead Nebula.”
“Really?” she asked, her eyes sparkling.
“Of course,” he replied. “In fact, I could even buy you a telescope of your own if you’re interested in studying the night sky.” He leaned in to whisper into her ear. “In fact, I could even print out images from our telescopes and sneak them home for you if you’d like.”
“Seriously?” she asked, giggling.
“Of course,” he said. “You seemed so excited when I brought up space that I can’t help but want to nourish it. It reminds me of myself when I was your age.”
“Really?” she asked, hanging on his every word now.
“Yup, I remember how I begged my folks for a telescope. And I finally got one for my birthday when I was… actually I think I was eight like you.” He leaned back, looking up at the ceiling. “My family was very poor growing up, my parents saved up for two years in a row to get me that telescope.”
“Wow,” Sunset said. “They sound really great.”
“They are,” He agreed, “They were almost as excited to find out about you as I was.” He looked down at her, pushing his glasses back up his nose. “Anything else you want to ask?”
“Th-they like me?” Sunset asked, a look of complete surprise on her face. “Granny didn’t like me.”
“Well, they have to meet you first silly,” he reminded, poking her nose, “But I know they’ll love you.” Sunset’s expression brightened.
“Umm, what’s June Bug like?” she asked.
“June’s always ready to bring a smile to your face. Though, she really doesn’t like drama. I remember we were having a meeting about our budget and two of my co-workers got into an argument over who got what share of the money, and after a few moments June lost it.”
“She sounds interesting,” Sunset said. “Lost it how, though?”
“June can get very loud when she’s angry,” Star explained, “by the time the meeting was over, those two walked out with their tails between their legs.” Sunset giggled.
“I think I’m gonna like her… at least until I get in trouble.” Sunset perked up, pulling away from Star. She dropped to her knees and with a little heave, pulled a box out from under her bed.
“What’s that, Sunset?” Star questioned, arching his eyebrow.
“Granny didn’t throw all of my stuff out,” she said, opening it up. Inside were a few toys,several knick knacks, a hand stitched stuffed animal, a journal and what looked like a photo album. Star picked up the stuffed animal, what looked like a yellow horse with a red mane.
“Did your mother make this?” he asked, “it’s lovely.”
“Uh huh. She made it for me when I was little. Her name is Daydream.”
“That’s a perfect name for her,” Star said, putting the stuffed animal back in the box. “What did you want to show me?”
Sunset grabbed the journal from the box, climbing back into his lap. “I used to um...” She blushed, cracking open the journal, exposing old crayon writing to the world.
“So you wrote down your thoughts,” Star said. “That’s adorable.”
Sunset nodded. “I used to stay up late, imagining what my dad was like.”
“So how do I stack up to what you imagined?” Star asked with a chuckle. “Am I less than what you hoped for?”
“No way.” Sunset shook her head hard enough that her hair smacked her in the face a few times. “You’re better than all of it!” A warm smile broke out across his face and he pulled her into another hug.
“That’s quite touching, Sunset. Would you mind sharing some of what you imagined me as?”
“Um... Okay...” she flipped to the beginning of the journal, stopping on a crude picture of a little yellow girl holding hands with a red woman and a blue man, who was, as far as Star could tell, dressed like a police officer.
“So you thought I’d be a cop, huh?” he asked, looking at the drawing. “I never thought of being a cop myself… the asthma would’ve got me booted anyway.”
“You have asthma?”
“I do,” he replied. “It’s under control now so I can basically do any physical activity I want without needing my inhaler too much. But when I was your age, it was bad. I coughed and wheezed just walking up a flight of stairs.”
“That sounds bad.” Sunset flipped to another, slightly better drawn picture of herself and what looked like an old timey explorer.
“Looks like you read some Daring Do before drawing this one,” Star said with a smile and ruffled her hair.
“She’s my favorite...” Sunset admitted with a blush.
“She’s a good character to look up to,” Star said, nodding. “She’s smart, brave, and can think on her feet.”
“She’s amazing.” Sunset flipped to another page. This one of herself and her parents putting on a rock concert.
“Heh, I hate to burst your bubble on this one, but the closest I got to being a rock star was playing the trombone in my high school band. Though June plays the guitar. I’m sure she’d love to teach you.”
“Mom let me watch Rocky Horror Picture Show,” Sunset explained quietly, “I used to dream about us singing and dancing.”
“June and I love that movie,” Star said with a grin. “Watching it is a Halloween tradition with us. I can’t believe your mom let you watch it.”
“Mom was like that, letting me watch things as long as she was there to explain things about them,” Sunset answered. Sunset narrowed her eyes poking at his chest. “You're not a transvestite are you?” Star had to stifle a laugh.
“No, nor am I from Transylvania.”
“Okay, good.” Sunset seemed much more relaxed, a smile on her face.
“I’m very glad to see you smile like this,” Star said. “It’s much better than just seeing the top of your head while you stare at the floor.”
“I’m sorry...” Sunset frowned, once again casting her gaze to the floor.
“You don’t have to apologize,” Star said, putting his hand on her shoulder. “You were nervous, and for good reason.”
“Um, do you wanna ask another question?” Sunset asked, fidgeting a little.
“How are you doing in school?” he asked.
“I haven’t been to school in a while... since Mom died.” Sunset lifted her gaze a little. “My teachers said I was really smart though.”
“I’m glad to hear that,” Star said with a smile. “If you’re as smart as you are pretty, then you’ll be able to get into any school you want when college application time comes around.”
“Think so?” she asked, looking up at him.
“I know so,” he said, his smile growing. She smiled back, leaning on him.
“Mr. Dust, Sunset!” Mrs. Zest called out. “Dinner’s ready~!”
“Come on, let’s go get something to eat.” Star Dust put Sunset back on her feet, standing up. Sunset hesitated for a moment before reaching up and grabbing his hand. He smiled and held her hand, walking downstairs with her at his side.
“Talk about anything interesting?” Mr. Zest asked, putting a plate of spaghetti onto the table.
“Yeah, Dad told me that he studies space and that he’d get me a telescope!” Sunset answered excitedly, her mouth watering as she twirled noodles on her fork.
“I had no idea you were interested in space,” Mrs. Zest commented, taking her seat.
“I didn’t either, but when he started talking about it I got excited,” Sunset said, a noodle hanging from her lip.
“You shouldn’t talk with your mouth full,” Star commented with a grin. Sunset blushed and chuckled nervously.
“Sorry, got a little carried away.”
“It’s alright, dear,” Mrs. Zest assured her. “I’m just glad to see you out of that funk.”
“Okay,” Sunset said with a smile. “Dad also said that Miss June Bug could teach me how to play guitar.”
“Gonna start a band?” Mr. Zest asked with a smile.
“Well… that could be fun,” Sunset said, her eyes closing as she pictured it. “Though… I don’t know anyone that would join my band.” she frowned.
“You’ll just have to make more friends won’t you?” Star reached over, ruffling her hair.
“I guess so,” Sunset said slowly. “I mean, Pinkie wanted to be my friend, so it can’t be that hard, right?”
“That's the spirit.” Star smiled, returning to his meal.
“Yeah!” Lemon chimed in, finally having joined the conversation, “Sunny’s gonna be the most popular girl in her school, I just know it!”
“I take it you’ll be leaving us, Sunset?” Mrs. Zest asked, looking between them.
“I think I am,” Sunset said with a nod and a sad smile. “Thank you for letting me stay with you. Can… can I call you guys to tell you how I’m doing? I like you guys, too.”
“Of course you can sweet heart.” Mrs. Zest reached over, gently taking Sunset’s hand. Sunset smiled and got up, hugging Mrs. Zest gently. Mrs. Zest hugged her back, sharing her sad smile.
“I hope you’ll visit us, Sunset.” Lemon got up, joining in on the hug.
“Yeah, we’re still sisters, Lemon,” Sunset said, sniffling a little.
“I’ll mark the days,” Lemon replied, letting Sunset pull away.
“I’ll be sure to bring her over to visit,” Star promised. “You’re fantastic people from what I’ve seen.”
“Thank you, Mr. Dust.” Lemon smiled.
“You’re welcome.” Star Dust turned to Sunset. “No need to get teary just yet, you’ll be here for another week or two while we get everything sorted out.”
“Okay, Dad,” Sunset replied, wiping at her eyes with an arm. “I can’t wait.” Star Dust beamed at being called Dad. Sunset sat back down and the four of them enjoyed a nice dinner.
Sunset had to keep herself from bouncing in her seat as her father drove them to her new home with him. What little she had was in the trunk.
“We’re almost there, Sunset, so try not to bounce right out of your seat,” Star Dust said with a chuckle, glancing back at her for a split second.
“Sorry.” She blushed, relaxing herself to the best of her abilities.
“You don’t have to apologize,” Star assured her. “June’s been excited to see you too. She worked very hard to get your room ready with me. She was a total taskmaster.”
“I get my own room?” Sunset asked, sounding surprised.
“Of course you get your own room,” Star told her. “And it looks great, if I say so myself.”
“I bet you put stars on the ceiling,” Sunset guessed with a giggle.
“Uh… of course not,” Star replied, chuckling nervously. “That’d be silly.”
“You’re silly, Dad,” Sunset teased, sticking her tongue out.
“Oh great, now I’ve got my daughter teasing me too,” he said with an exaggerated sigh. “Something tells me you and June are going to get along great.” He pulled into a driveway and parked the car.
“Is this our house?” Sunset asked, peeking out of the window, taking it all in.
“Yup, welcome home, Sunset.” Star turned back to her with a smile and undid his seatbelt. Sunset unbuckled her seatbelt, hopping out of the car to get a better look at her new home.
“I didn't think it’d be so big...” Sunset muttered in awe. The house, or mansion to Sunset’s eyes, was at least three stories tall.
“I know right?” Star asked, stepping out of the car. “We got the place pretty cheap too. The guy who made it was a little wacky.”
“This is so amazing!” Sunset beamed and jumped out of the car. “I can’t believe that I get to live here!”
“And, there's a guest house out back,” Star added, grabbing her things out of the trunk.
“Wow, I guess you make a lot of money as an astro-thingy,” Sunset said, walking up to the front door, still taking it all in.
“Actually, I get most of my income from giving lectures to students around the country,” Star clarified, “But like I said, we got this place pretty cheap.”
“That sounds super cool!” Sunset said with a grin. She knocked on the door.
“Coming!” A woman's voice called a moment before the door opened. A white skinned woman with long green hair and green eyes looked down at her. “Oh, Sunset!” She beamed. “You’re even prettier than Star said you’d be!”
Almost like lightning, Sunset withdrew back into herself. “Hi...” she muttered shyly, looking at her shoes.
“I’m sorry,” the woman said with a frown, kneeling down. “I didn’t mean to scare you. My name’s June Bug, I’m very glad to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you...” Sunset muttered, sneaking a peek at her.
“I hope we get along,” June said with a soft smile. “Do you want to see your room?”
“Yes, please.” She nodded. June stood up and led Sunset upstairs with Star carrying her things behind them. She opened a door on the second floor hallway and stepped out of the way so Sunset could step in and take a look.
Sunset peeked in, looking around the room. It was done up in her colors, though the walls were bare. From the ceiling hung a model of the solar system, surrounded by glow-in-the-dark stars of various sizes. A writing desk sat against the wall, with an empty bookshelf next to it.
“Do you like it?” June asked hopefully as Star put her things on the bed.
“We didn't put anything on the walls,” Star added, “We thought you’d like to decorate it yourself.”
“Thank you so much,” Sunset said, taking everything in. “I love it. It’s so perfect. I can’t believe you two would do so much for me.”
“How couldn't we?” Star asked, producing a box from under the desk. “We have one last thing to go with the room.”
“What is it?” Sunset asked, looking at the box and trying to get a good look at it from all angles to guess its contents.
“Pull up a seat, Sunny.” Star smiled, coining a new nickname. Sunset smiled and sat at the chair in front of the desk, looking up at her father with an eager expression. He placed the box in front of her, opening it up to reveal a... black rectangle.
“What is this?” Sunset asked, poking at the rectangle with an unsure expression.
“You have to open it sweetie,” Star encouraged. She looked it over and found a way to open it to reveal a screen and letters and numbers arranged in a way that seemed odd to her.
“Is this… a computer?” Sunset asked.
“Yes it is. It’s a portable one called a laptop, and it’s all yours.” Star smiled, kissing her head.
“Can you teach me how to use it?” Sunset asked with an excited smile. “I’ve never had a computer before. I’ve only seen them on TV.”
“Indeed I can,” he responded with a smile, “I'll need a bit to set it up. Why don't you let June show you around?”
“Okay,” Sunset replied and got up. She looked at June nervously and waited to follow her lead.
June smiled, leading her out into the hallway. “I assume your dad told you why we got this place so cheap?”
“He said the person you got it from a wacky guy,” Sunset replied, only sneaking glances at June.
“The man who built this place was way into spy movies.” June reached out, knocking on a wall. “There’s secret passages and hidden rooms everywhere.”
“That’s so cool!” Sunset said, bouncing in place. “This is the most awesome house ever!”
“Now Sunset,” June started, getting her attention, “If you find any let us know okay?”
“Of course!” Sunset said with an excited nod. “I can’t believe this is a real place!”
“Neither could I.” June smiled. “You just gotta be careful okay?”
“Okay, Miss June Bug,” Sunset replied with a nod. “I won’t go into any passages and stuff without your or Dad’s permission.”
“Thank you, but sweetheart, you can just call me June.”
“Okay June,” Sunset replied. “Dad says you were his lab assistant. Does that mean you’re super smart too?”
“I like to think so.” June grinned. “Hopefully you got your dad’s brain juice.” She reached over, gently tapping on Sunset’s head. Sunset giggled and let her touch her.
“Thanks, you’re nice. I’m glad you’re my dad’s special someone.”
“And I’m glad you're his daughter,” June countered, turning a corner, “And here.” She stopped in front of a door. “Is our green house.”
“You have a green house inside the house?” Sunset asked with a tilt of her head. “Aren’t those usually in people’s backyards?”
“We have a sky light.” June smiled, ushering her inside. Sunset looked over the rows of plants, seeing tomatoes and several other fruits and vegetables as well as flowers.
“You grow food in here?” Sunset asked, looking at one of the tomatoes.
“It's something we do to take our minds off work,” June explained.
“I like it in here,” Sunset said. “It’s pretty. Can I help you and Dad water the flowers sometime?”
“If that's what you want.” June nodded. “We’ll even let you plant some things of your own.”
“Really?” Sunset asked with an eager look. “Thanks! I’m gonna find some really pretty flowers and plant them!”
“And your dad told me you were shy.” June grinned, ruffling her hair.
“Well, Dad likes you, so I can trust you,” Sunset said, rubbing her arm. “Plus, he said you worked really hard on my room.”
“Thank you for trusting me, Sunny.” June picked a flower, putting it in the young girl’s hair. Sunset put her hand to the flower and smiled.
“You’re welcome, June.”
“Wanna see your dad's workshop?” June asked, walking to the door.
“Yeah!” Sunset cheered, rushing to her side. “That sounds cool!”
“Just promise you won't touch anything, okay? Most of his projects are very delicate.”
“I promise,” Sunset agreed with a nod. “I wouldn’t want to break any of Dad’s stuff.”
June led her to another room, this one full of machines and tools. “This is where your dad works out all his crazy ideas.”
“Whoa, it’s like something out of a sci-fi movie in here,” Sunset commented, looking around the room. “I thought Dad studied space, what’s all this stuff?”
“Just inventions your dad thinks up from time to time,” June explained, letting Sunset explore, “Most of it never gets finished, but it helps him relax.”
“What are some of the things he’s finished?” Sunset asked, her hands placed deep in her pockets to keep from touching anything.
“He did finish that electro-radar a few weeks back.”
“Electro-radar, what’s that?” Sunset asked, looking up at June curiously.
“You see Sunset, every living thing has a tiny bit of electricity inside of them, it's how our brains work. Your dad wanted to make something that could find that but, it just found everything that had an electrical charge.”
“That’s so cool!” Sunset beamed. “Do you think Dad’ll teach me how to build stuff too!”
“I think he’ll try to spend every moment he can with you.” June smiled, patting her head. “You know, you start school next week.”
“Yeah, Dad told me during the car ride.” Sunset shifted on her feet a little.
“Are you excited?”
“Y-yeah, I mean, it’s a chance to make new friends.”
“That's good.” June lead her out into the hallway again. “Sleipnir academy is a really nice school.”
“I dunno if I’ll be able to pronounce that.” Sunset scratched the side of her head.
“Yeah, it takes a bit to get the hang of,” June agreed, “But, in the meantime, we get to go clothes shopping!”
“Sounds fun! Mom and I loved to go shopping together!”
“Excellent!” June grinned. “We can go tomorrow, how does that sound?”
“It sounds great!” Sunset beamed. “Where are we gonna go?”
“Where do you want to go?”
“Um, is there a mall close by?” Sunset asked.
“About twenty minutes away.”
“Then let’s go there!” Sunset said with a grin. June chuckled, showing Sunset around her new home. Sunset took everything in, sticking close to June’s side. Eventually, she even held the woman’s hand as they returned to her bedroom.
“Dad!” Sunset called, pushing her bedroom door open. “We’re back!”
“Did you have fun with June, Sunny?” Star asked, turning away from her laptop to look at her.
“Yeah! She showed me all the cool stuff in your house!” Sunset gushed, rushing over to him.
“It’s your house now too, Sunny.” He chuckled and ruffled her hair. She giggled, wrapping her arms around him.
“Is it ready?” She asked, gazing at her laptop.
“Yes, I’ve got the parental blocks up and the general settings taken care of,” Star said, pulling her into his lap. “All that’s left is to teach you how to use the laptop and show you the internet.”
“Internet?” She asked. What's that?”
“Hmm, it’s a little hard to put into words,” Star said, scratching his chin. “But it’s full of information and in a few years time, it’s going to be an integral part of people’s lives.”
“Oh.” She nodded her head slightly.
“It’ll be easier just to show you.” He moved his finger across a pad on the laptop and pushed a button as a cursor was over an icon on the screen. The screen changed, and a word was on the center of it. Google.
“What's 'goo-gal’?” Sunset asked, staring at the word.
“It’s a search engine, you type words into the box right there, and it’ll show you things related to that,” he explained, typing in ‘stars’ to demonstrate.
“Woah.” Sunset leaned in, watching in awe as pictures of stars flooded the screen.
“Yup, and you can find a lot more than this,” Star said. “Researching homework assignments will be a cinch. Plus, you can talk to people all over the world. Just make sure you have us with you if you wanna do that. People can pretend to be someone they’re not.”
“Talk to people? Like a telephone?”
“More like an instant letter,” Star corrected. “There’s quite a few places where people can send messages to one another. In fact, my old college has a forum where students can talk to one another about classes and things like that.”
“Oooh! That's really neat!” Sunset beamed.
“You think everything is neat,” June teased.
“Nuh uh,” Sunset said with a pout. “I don’t think spiders are neat. They’re gross.”
“I like spiders,” June giggled, “My mother’s an entomologist, so I grew up around a lot of bugs.” Sunset shivered at the thought.
“Eww, I don’t think I’d like that at all.”
“Suit yourself, Sunny.”
“Anyway,” Star cut in, chuckling at their exchange. “On to teaching you how to use this. First, is the track pad. You just move your finger along it to control the mouse cursor.” He demonstrated it for her.
Sunset smiled as she soaked up her father’s words, learning. The teaching continued for a while until Star told her she was ready to try it on her own. She beamed and typed several things into the search engine, her mind racing with possibilities.
“Okay, dinner time,” June cut in as Sunset was in the middle of typing something. “Who wants pizza?”
“I do!” Sunset called, pushing away from her desk.
“Pizza sounds great, June,” Star said. “The usual place?”
“You got it!” June called, “We going out or ordering?”
“Why don’t we go out so Sunny can see more of her new town?” Star suggested.
“I think that's a great idea,” June agreed, “Get ready to go Sunny.”
“Okay!” Sunset rushed to the bathroom to wash up. She came back into her room and put on a jacket. “Ready!”
“You have to put your shoes in first,” June reminded. Sunset nodded and put her shoes on and tied them up tight.
“What kind of pizza are we getting?” Sunset asked.
“What kind would you like?”
“Umm… pepperoni!” Sunset answered.
“Then pepperoni it is!” Star declared as he walked into the room.
“Alright, let’s get going then,” June said, taking Sunset’s hand and leading her down to the car. Sunset hummed, skipping along. June and Star couldn’t help but smile as they entered the car. Star started it up and took them out of their driveway.
Sunset watched from her seat as the scenery flashed by, trying to take in every detail.
“Oh Sunny, my parents said they’re visiting next weekend,” Star said, getting her attention. “They’re excited to finally meet you.”
“I can't wait to meet them.” Sunset smiled. “What are they like?”
“They’re very nice,” Star said. “Both of them are educators. My father is a professor at a nearby college and my mother is a Superintendent.”
“What's a super-tendant? Is that like a superhero?”
“No, a superintendent is a position on a county’s school board,” Star explained. “They make sure the schools are doing what they’re supposed to and that they’re performing well.”
“Oh. Sounds boring.”
“It may not be an exciting job, but it’s important,” he said with a chuckle. It didn't take them long to pull up to a small pizza place called “Cheese’s Pizza.” Sunset looked at the sign as she held on to her father’s hand. They took a seat and a waitress walked over to them.
“Hi there, what can I get you to drink?” she asked in a friendly voice.
“Um...” Sunset shrank in on herself, her words dying in her mouth.
“How about a root beer?” Star asked, coming to her rescue. Sunset nodded and the waitress jotted it down.
“And for you two?” the waitress asked. They gave their orders, and the waitress walked off.
“You okay Sunny?” Star asked, looking at her in concern. Sunset nodded again and put on a strained smile. “You can tell me if something's wrong okay?”
“I-I’m just a little nervous,” she managed to get out. “Nothing to worry about.”
“Is that all?” He asked with a frown. Sunset nodded again.
“Yeah Dad, that’s all,” Sunset told him.
“Alright, if you say so.” He reached over, ruffling her hair. Her smile grew a little and the waitress took the rest of their drink orders.
“Ready to order?” The waitress asked, taking out her notepad.
“We want a large pepperoni pizza with extra cheese,” June said.
“With some bread sticks,”Star added.
“Seriously, breadsticks too? Where ya gonna put all that ya scrawny nerd?” June teased, smirking at him.
“Always need the brain food.” He smirked.
“Oh, then maybe we should get an anchovy pizza just for you?” she retorted. “Fish is a big brain food after all.”
“Bleh anchovies.” He stuck his tongue out, winking at Sunset. Sunset just giggled as she watched the two.
“So, a large pepperoni pizza with extra cheese and breadsticks, will that be all?” the waitress asked with a smile.
“You got it.” Star gave her a thumbs up. The waitress nodded and walked off.
“That was funny.” Sunset smiled and sipped her root beer.
“Thanks, we’re certified comedians,” Star said with a smirk.
“Yeah, don’t quit your day job sweetie,” June said. “We’d go broke if you tried taking your act on the road.”
“And don't quit yours.” He reached over, poking her cheek.
“Try that again, see what happens,” she warned playfully, narrowing her eyes at him. He matched her glare, poking her cheek again. June reached over, pulling his glasses off of his face.
“Hey! I need those to see!” He complained, vainly grasping at her hands.
“I warned you not to poke me again,” she said, keeping the glasses just out of reach. “Plus, I told you contacts are better. But did you listen, no.”
“I'm not taking the risk of poking my eyes out,” he countered, frowning.
“Oh you’re such a big baby,” she teased, putting his glasses on and kissing his nose. Sunset was in hysterics at this point, nearly spilling her drink.
“Guess I was worried over nothing,” Star said, adjusting his glasses. “Sunny seems to be feeling just fine.”
“I just... get nervous...” Sunset explained, taking a deep breath to calm herself.
“It’s okay, sweetie,” June assured her. “Your dad and I are here for you.” Sunset nodded, giving them a smile. They continued to talk and eventually their pizza and breadsticks arrived, causing Sunset’s mouth to water.
“Dig in!” Star smiled, biting into a breadstick. Sunset nodded and took a slice of pizza, biting into it.
“Mmm, so good,” Sunset said, smiling. The three of them spent the next half hour, and by the time they were done, Sunset was stifling a yawn.
“I think someone needs to get to bed,” Star said, ruffling her hair. “How about we go home and I read you some Daring Do to lull you to sleep?”
“I’d like that a lot dad.” Sunset smiled, rubbing at an eye. He smiled and quickly paid. On the ride home, Sunset nodded her head as she tried to stay awake. In an effort to keep herself awake, she decided to ask a question. “Hey dad?”
“What is it, Sunny?” Star asked, not taking his eyes off the road.
“Could other moms have made kids with that stuff you donated?” Star blinked, the thought dawning on him.
“It’s possible,” he admitted. “But I think you’re the only child that’s mine. Plus, if you do have siblings, I’m not allowed to know about them.”
“Huh, why not?” Sunset asked with a tilt of her head.
“Well, it's a little complicated.” Star frowned. “But the law says that I can't. If we ever hear from them is if their parents tell them about me and they decide to contact me.”
“Okay, if that happens, I wonder if they’re nice?” She wondered aloud.
“I hope they're as amazing as you are.” Star smiled, pulling into their driveway. Sunset giggled and soaked in the praise.
“Thanks, Dad.”
“Come on.” Star got out and unbuckled her, picking her up. “Let's get you to bed.” Sunset nodded and wrapped her arms around him. She smiled contently as he carried her upstairs. “We can skip brushing your teeth just this once okay?”
“Okay,” she said, getting into her pajamas. She then crawled into bed and looked up at him with a hopeful smile.
He sat next to her bed, the first Daring Do book on his hands. “Ready?” She nodded eagerly. He cracked the book open to the beginning, starting to read aloud, going so far as to give the characters distinct voices. He only got two chapters or so in before she finally fell asleep. He smiled at her and kissed her forehead. He then carefully walked out of the room and slowly closed the door.
“She’s such a cute kid,” June whispered, waiting in the hallway.
“I can’t believe she’s mine...” Star said, glancing at her door.
“I can,” June said with a smile. “She’s as easily excitable as you are. She even wants you to teach her how to build things like you do.”
“She does?” he asked, blinking in surprise.
“Yup, her eyes lit up in your workshop. She’s definitely your kid,” she told him, kissing his cheek. He smiled, pulling her into a deep kiss.
“I just wish I could’ve met her mother.” He pulled away, looking into her eyes.
“What, did you want to replace me with her?” she teased with a soft smile.
“Keep that up and you’ll give me a swollen head,” June said, patting his cheek.
“I bet.” he pulled away from her, heading to their room. “I just hope I can be a good dad.”
“I know you will,” June said, walking ahead of him. “To Sunset, and possibly others.” She added a bit more of a sway to her hips.
“Oh? You wanna make one of our own?” he grinned, watching her hips.
“Well, I was thinking that Sunset could use a little brother or sister,” June said, looking over her shoulder to catch him staring. “Wouldn’t you agree?”
“I do very much indeed~” he grinned, opening their door for her.
“I’ll put on that outfit I know you love~” she sing songed as the door closed behind her. Star couldn’t wait to get to bed that night.
Children of the Star-Another Sunset
Be Cruel To Your School
“Dad! I’m home!” Sunset called as she stepped into their home. The recently turned eleven year old kicked off her shoes, dropping her backpack onto the couch.
“Your father is gone!” A booming voice echoed through the house. “To get him back you must answer three riddles!”
“Oh yeah? What kinda riddles?” Sunset asked, putting her hands on her hips.
“What is your name?” the voice asked.
Sunset rolled her eyes, a hint of a smile on her face. “Sunset Shimmer.”
“What is your quest?”
“To catch them,” Sunset responded.
“And what… is the average airspeed of an unladen swallow?” the voice asked.
“Zebrican or European?” Sunset shot back.
“...I don’t- gah!” the voice got cut off. A moment later her father stepped out from a hidden door, chuckling.
“Hey Sunny, do you like the hidden speaker system I set up in the house?” he asked with a grin.
“It’ll be great for Halloween.” She nodded, stepping up and giving him a tight hug.
“My thoughts exactly,” he replied, his grin growing as he returned the hug. “How was your day at school, Sunny? Did you have fun?”
“Always.” She pulled away, beaming up at him.
“That's good.” He ruffled her hair, much to her chagrin. “Why don’t you go get changed? We have something important to talk about.”
“Okay,” she replied as she fixed her hair. “Should I be worried or excited about this?”
“Depends on how you look at it.” He gave her a light push. “Now go on and get changed.” Sunset rolled her eyes and rushed up to her room. She took off her Sleipnir Academy uniform and hung it up. She then pulled on a blouse with a red and yellow sun on it, a pair of jeans and a pair of black flats. She then rode the banister down to her father.
“Alright, I’m all changed. So what did you want to talk about?”
“I got called to your school today,” he began, leading her into the den. He sat down on the recliner, gesturing for her to take a seat on the couch.
“Huh, why?” Sunset asked, genuinely confused. “Dad, I haven’t done anything bad.”
“I know you haven’t.” He gave her a reassuring smile. “As it turns out, you’re too smart for the school.”
“Huh?” Sunset asked, blinking. “What does that mean?”
“What it means Sunset, is that the Academy just can’t give you what you need anymore,” he leaned forward, adjusting his glasses. “You haven’t gotten anything less than a perfect grade on any of your assignments, barring your first year.”
“Well, between you and Mom, it’s kinda hard not to get good grades,” Sunset said with a giggle. “You two are constantly tutoring me while we’re in the greenhouse or the workshop.”
“Sweetheart, they want to move you up to Fenrir High.”
“...But I’m eleven,” Sunset said with a gulp. “I wouldn’t fit in with all those older kids.”
“I can’t say that it’ll be easy, but, if you do this, you could get into college before you’re sixteen.”
“...Do you think it’s a good idea?” she asked, looking up at her father with a nervous look.
“It’s an opportunity I didn’t have.” He got up, sitting next to her. “I can’t tell you what to do here Sunny, this is up to you. But if you choose to stay at the Academy, your mother and I won’t think any less of you, I promise.”
“C-can I go back to the Academy if I don’t like it at Fenrir High?” Sunset asked, toying with the bottom of her blouse.
“Of course you can.” He wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “We’d never force you to be somewhere you’d rather not be.”
“Then I’ll do it,” Sunset said with a nod. “I mean, I might actually like it there.” She smiled weakly.
“It’ll take a few days to get you transferred over.” He pulled out his PDA. “You’ll finish the week out at the Academy and by Monday, you’ll be a bonafide High Schooler.”
“Okay, I can’t wait for Monday,” she said, chuckling nervously. Star frowned, putting a hand on her shoulder.
“Sunny, you don’t have to do this if you don’t want to.”
“I want to try, Dad,” Sunset said. “I’m nervous, but I want to see if I can do this. I want to make you and Mom proud.”
“We’re already proud of you,” he assured her, pulling her close and planting a kiss on her forehead.
“I still want to try,” she said. “I mean, this could be a good thing for me, right?”
“Exactly.” He nodded. “Now, on a lighter note, you got a letter from Lemon Zest.” He pulled it out from his sleeve, offering it to her.
“Lemon sent me a letter?!” Sunset asked, a smile exploding across her face. She grabbed it and carefully opened it. She pored over the letter, taking in every word. “Her family finally got a computer!” Sunset paused, looking over at Star. “Is it okay if I give her my contact information?”
“Of course it’s okay to give her that,” Star said. “She’s your sister, isn’t she?”
“Thanks! I’mma go write her back!” Sunset scurried upstairs, flopping on her bed. She pulled out a pen and paper from her bedside table and started to write her response. She smiled at the thought of exchanging emails with Lemon.
“Sunny!” A squeaky voice called and before she knew it, a miniature person jumped on her bed, hugging her.
“Hercules,” Sunset said with a chuckle and returned the hug. “I’m happy to see you too, little bro.” She squeezed the three year old gently.
“I missed you,” Hercules said, looking up at her.
“Well I’m here now,” she said, patting his head. “Just let me finish this letter to Lemon and we can play any game you want, okay?”
“Okay!” He let go of her, swinging his feet over the side of her bed. She smiled at him and went back to her letter. Once she was done she put it on her night stand and looked down at her brother.
“Okay, I’m ready to play,” she told him. “Got anything in mind?"
“Super Smash Sisters!” Hercules cheered.
“Alright, give me a moment to hook it up.” Sunset slid off her bed, moving over to her TV stand. She hooked up the game system and put the game in. She then patted a spot on the floor next to her and held a controller out to him.
“I wanna be Mewtwo!” Hercules beamed, taking the controller and sitting down.
“Whatever you want,” Sunset assured, taking Ganondorf. Sunset then put up two computers, changed the settings to stock and hit the random choice in the stage select.
She didn't go easy on him per se, she was very much convinced he had no idea how to play, but they still had a lot of fun.
“Aww, Sunny, you’re too good,” Hercules pouted as she knocked him off the screen again.
“You’ll get better,” she assured, poking his cheek.
“Yeah!” He beamed. “I jus gotta pwactice!” He then turned to her and smiled. She giggled, pulling him into a hug.
“You sound just like me you know that?” She asked, gazing down at him.
“Well, I’m your bwother.” he climbed into her lap, giving her a tight hug.
“Yeah, you are,” she said, returning the hug. “And I bet you’ll be even smarter than Dad and me one day.”
“I’ll be da smartist!” He declared, looking up at her.
“Yeah you will,” she agreed. “I bet you’ll get into High School even earlier than I am.” She giggled at his enthusiasm.
“High Scool?” he asked curiously.
“Yeah, next week I’m being sent up a few grades,” she said, stroking his head. “I’ll be hanging up my Sleipnir Academy uniform for good soon. Heh… it should be fun.”
“Sounds scawy.”
“It is a little bit, but I’m gonna give it a shot,” she said. “Sometimes you gotta do scary things. Like when Dad took you to the dentist.” She poked his stomach with a grin. He eeped, covering his mouth. “Heh, we’re not going to the dentist, little bro. But thanks, you’re making me feel better about all this.”
“Yay! I helped!” He cheered, giving her .another hug.
“Yeah you did,” she said, smiling and ruffling his hair. “Wanna play some more?”
“Yes pwease!” he chirped, grabbing his controller. The two continued to play, both of them enjoying themselves.
“Hercules, Sunset, Dinner!” June called out.
“Come on, let's go eat.” Sunset hefted Hercules up, carrying him downstairs.
“Yay!” Hercules cheered, holding onto her as they went into the dining room.
She giggled, setting him in his high chair and buckling him in.
“There’s my two favorite people,” June said, setting up the last plate.
“Hey! What about me?” Star called from the den.
“I didn’t stutter,” June teased. “The kids you make are cuter than you. Now get in here so we can start to eat.”
“I dunno if I want to, now,” he huffed. “I don't exactly feel appreciated.”
“Uh huh, and if I told you that I made your and Sunset’s favorite tonight you wouldn’t change your mind?” she asked with a smirk.
“Maybe...” Star peeked his head in, looking at the table. She smiled and loaded their plates with a steak, broccoli, and mashed potatoes.
“That’s a good doctor, now the rest of you, or Hercules and Sunset get your share.” Star slinked into the kitchen, sliding into his seat. Sunset and Hercules giggled at their parents’ behavior.
“Do the two of you ever get tired of teasing each other?” Sunset asked.
“Not as long as it brings a smile to your face,” Star said, winking at her.
“Oh please, we’d still tease each other even if they groaned,” June said with a chuckle.
“Don't listen to her, she’s just in it for the attention.”
“Uh huh,” June said with a roll of her eyes. “Anyway, I heard about you skipping grades today.” She turned to Sunset. “Good job, Sunny.”
“Thanks.” Sunset nodded, looking down at her food. “I’m a little nervous about the whole thing.”
“I know you are, but how would you feel about a shopping trip at the mall to celebrate your achievement?” June asked with a warm smile.
“Really?” Sunset perked up. “I’d like that a lot, Mom.”
“Good, you deserve a reward for all your hard work.” June started to cut up Hercules’s food.
“And while you ladies are out having fun, I'll take Herc to the playground.” Star winked at the boy, a smile on his face.
“Yay! Swing, swing!” Hercules cheered, bouncing in his chair.
“That's tomorrow, now it’s dinner time.” June calmed him down, putting his plate in front of him.
“No bwoccowi,” Hercules whined, covering his mouth at the sight of the vegetable.
“Come on now, you wanna grow up to be like your daddy right?” June asked, being patient.
“I have an idea,” Sunset said with a smile. “Herc, broccoli breath keeps dentists away.”
“Weally?” Herc asked cautiously, glancing down at the offending vegetable.
“Yup, everyone knows that dentists can’t stand the smell of broccoli.” Sunset nodded sagely.
“Okay...” Herc conceded, finally starting to eat.
“That’s a good boy,” June cooed, stroking his head. She turned to Sunset. “Thanks, Sunny, that was some quick thinking.”
“No problem, Mom.” Sunset beamed, tearing into her own food with gusto.
“I don’t know if I should be happy you enjoy my food so much, or admonish you for your lack of manners,” June commented with an exaggerated sigh.
“You make really good food,” Sunset protested.
“It’s true,” Star chimed in as he dipped a piece of steak in steak sauce. “Even I have a hard time containing myself due to how good your food is.”
“Good food!” Herc chimed in, grinning up at a bemused June.
“Alright, I get it,” June chuckled, “I’m a good cook. Now please stop praising me before my head swells to the size of Jupiter.”
“Only ‘cause you asked nicely.” Sunset beamed, taking another bite of her steak. The four then enjoyed a quiet meal, Herc eating every bit of his broccoli to keep the dentist away.
The week passed, and Sunset found herself standing at the doors of Fenrir High. She gulped, watching as the older students piled into the building. She steeled herself and walked inside.
“Um...hello.” Sunset walked up to the front desk, getting the Secretary's attention. “I’m Sunset Shimmer, a new student. Can I get my schedule please?” She asked with a weak smile.
“Oh! You're the transfer!” He stood up, grabbing a folder. “We’ve been waiting for you all week.”
“Well, I’m here now,” Sunset replied, chuckling nervously as she gently took the folder.
“Do you need me to walk you to your first class?”
“Um, I think just some directions will be fine,” she replied, opening the folder and looking at her schedule. The secretary went over it quickly with her, sending her on her way. She thanked him and exited the office. She walked down the hall and up a flight of stairs. She pushed open a door and walked into her first classroom.
She gulped, suddenly finding all eyes on herself. She did her best to ignore the eyes on her and found an empty seat. She pulled out her supplies and tried to hide behind them.
“You must be Sunset Shimmer,” the teacher spoke up. He was tall, his skin orange and his hair blue. “Could you please come to the front of the class.” She nodded slowly and stood up, robotically walking up to stand at the front of the room. “Class, this is Sunset Shimmer. She’ll be joining us from Sleipnir Academy.” This caused the class to start whispering and Sunset had to keep herself from trembling.
“I know she's younger than all of you, but I hope you’ll make her feel welcome.” He gave Sunset a smile, gesturing for her to return to her desk. She took her seat and took a deep breath to calm herself down.
She poured herself into the work, doing her best to ignore the looks of her classmates. The bell eventually rang and she quickly rushed to her next class. She looked at her schedule again to remind herself of her next class. She saw that it was Algebra but wasn’t looking where she was going and crashed into someone.
“Ya alright?” A masculine voice asked.
“Y-yeah, I’m fine,” Sunset said, picking herself and her spilled schedule up. “I’m sorry about that, I should’ve watched where I was going.” She looked up at the person she crashed into.
He was tall, with blue hair and orange skin. “Don’t worry about it. Ya new?”
“Did the manilla folder give it away?” Sunset asked with a weak smile, waving the folder the secretary gave her a little.
“A little, I’m Alias, nice to meet you.” He smiled, holding his hand out.
“I’m Sunset,” she replied, shaking his hand. “And likewise. Also, you kinda look like the teacher I just had,” she noted, looking at his skin and hair.
“That's my dad, Anonymous. Luckily, I don't have him this year.”
“Ouch, I can’t imagine having your dad working at the school you go to is fun,” she said, wincing. “My grandpa’s a professor at Canterlot University. So, guess which college I’m not going to?”
“They move ya up from the Academy?” he asked, looking her over.
“Well, I guess I wanted to get out of school so much that I decided to skip a few grades,” she joked, chuckling nervously.
“What's your next class?” He asked, giving her an easy smile.
“It’s Algebra,” she answered, relaxing slightly from his smile.
“Ya know the way?”
“I think so,” she replied. “The guy in the office gave me a rundown of where all my classes are.”
“Better hurry, don't wanna be late.” He smiled again, moving past her and walking down the hallway. She blinked and looked at the clock in the hall. She then rushed down the hall and entered her next classroom just as the bell rang.
“Cutting it close, huh?” the teacher asked, a look of mirth on her face.
“Sorry,” Sunset said as she took a seat. “I uh… got a little turned around. It won’t happen again, ma’am.”
“Don't worry too much about it,” she assured, “I'm Ms. Citrine, a pleasure to meet you.”
“Likewise,” Sunset replied, pulling out her textbook and binder.
“Why don't you introduce yourself to the class?” Ms.Citrine suggested. Sunset nodded and stood up.
“I’m Sunset Shimmer and… I just got sent up from Sleipnir Academy. So… guess that makes me a giant nerd,” she joked with a weak smile. She got a few laughs, which served to relax her nerves.
“Very nice,” Ms. Citrine said. “Now, let’s begin our lesson.” Sunset sat back down, glad to lose herself in math. The bell rang again and this time she didn’t rush out of the room. She looked at her schedule again, saw that she had History next, and tucked her folder under her arm.
She hurried along, excusing herself several times as she bumped into people. The rest of her day progressed similarly for her with her introducing herself to her classes and her silently working through the lessons. When the final bell rang, she packed her things away and headed for the exit.
“Hey Sunset,” Alias called, jogging up to her.
“Hi Alias,” Sunset said, adjusting her backpack and turning to him. “Have a good day?”
“I was gonna ask you that.” He smiled.
“Yeah, it went better than I thought it would,” she answered. “Though I did feel like a zoo exhibit at first with the way people stared at me.”
“High school isn't like TV,” he assured her. “If anyone gives you trouble, I got your back.”
“Wow, any reason you’re being so nice to the new girl?” She asked with a smile.
“Ya remind me of my sister.” He smiled. “Catch ya later Sunny!” He spun on his heel, walking out of the building. Sunset smiled and exited the building as well.
“First day and I already made a friend,” she said to herself with a small smile. “And, I understood all the material I was given. If things keep going like this then high school won’t be so bad.”
“Hey look, it's the little genius,” a vain voice chuckled from behind her. She rolled her eyes and decided to ignore it, walking away. “Hey! I’m talking to you!” Sunset snuck a glance behind her and instantly regretted it. Behind her were three girls. One was a yellow skinned girl with a massive head of orange curls. The second was a purple girl with purple hair done up in twin tails with blue streaks in it. The final girl was a blue skinned girl with light blue hair with dark blue streaks done up in a pony tail. Each of them wore a green and gold cheerleading uniform with a wolf head on the chest.
“Look, I’m trying to get home okay?” Sunset asked, resuming her walk to the exit.
“Aww, but we just wanted to talk,” the blue girl said with a pout.
“About what?” Sunset asked, not looking back.
“Just a friendly welcome to the school,” the yellow girl said in an overly sweet tone.
“Well, now's your chance.”
“Seeing as we’re cheerleaders, we thought we’d do a little cheer for you in the gym,” the purple girl said, putting her hands on her hips.
Sunset sighed, pinching her nose. “Alright, but I hope it's quick.”
“Don’t worry, we’d need the entire team if we wanted to get complex,” the blue girl said with a giggle as the yellow girl led them back towards the school building. Sunset looked between them, frowning. They surrounded her as they walked down the halls and through a set of double doors.
“Is this necessary?” Sunset asked, trying to squeeze past them.
“Hmm?” The yellow girl asked as if she hadn’t noticed. “Sorry, we’re just walking.”
“This is was totally a bad idea...” Sunset muttered, hanging her head.
“Yeesh, you sound more negative than Aria’s poetry,” the blue girl noted as they entered the gym.
“What was that?” the purple girl growled.
“You heard me,” the blue girl said. “How many of your poems talk about ‘My cold existence’?”
“How about I show you how cold my fist is?!”
“Go for it,” the blue girl said, sticking her tongue out. “Mom said she’d send you to finishing school if you hit me again.” ‘Aria’ just seethed, looking like she was about to strangle her.
“Ignore them, they’re idiots,” the yellow girl dismissed.
“Uh... okay?” Sunset frowned. “Look, this was a nice gesture, but I gotta get home.”
“Out of curiosity, how old exactly are you?” the yellow girl asked.
“Eleven,” Sunset answered.
“Such a tender age.” She smirked, taking on a predatory look.
“Okay… now you’re creeping me out,” Sunset said, backing up to the door. “I’m just gonna go.”
“Leaving so soon?” Aria asked, standing in her way.
“Um… look, I don’t want any trouble,” Sunset said, gulping.
“You started it the moment you came here,” big hair scoffed, grabbing her backpack and giving it a hard tug. Sunset let out an eep, falling on her butt from the tug. “See, we’re the big fish around here. We can't have some little girl come in and steal our thunder.”
“Why don't you just hop back on your mommas tit?” Aria asked, glaring down at her. Sunset glared up at her for that comment.
“My mom’s dead, you bitch,” Sunset growled.
“Ooh, kitty got claws,” Aria taunted, “Gonna cry?”
“No, I stopped crying a long time ago,” Sunset replied, not faltering.
“Maybe I should give you a reason?” Aria grinned, punching her hand.
“Oh wow, you’re going to beat up someone that’s at least three years younger than you,” Sunset said with a roll of her eyes. “You must be so tough. What, did you get sick of taking candy from babies?”
Aria grit her teeth, hefting Sunset off the ground by the front of her blouse. “Say that to my face!’
“Oh, okay,” Sunset said. “This, this right here, isn’t tough. It’s path-” Sunset didn't finish as Aria socked her in the face.
“How about I knock your teeth out?!”
“Aria, put her down,” the yellow girl instructed, looking at her expectantly. Sunset grunted as she was dropped on the ground and felt at her nose. She winced slightly, but it didn’t seem broken. “Here's the deal, we want you out of here. Go back to the Academy like a good little girl and we won't have a problem.”
“Or, counter-offer,” Sunset said, standing up. “You leave me alone, and I don’t call the cops on you.”
“As if they’d believe you,” Yellow scoffed.
“Oh really?” Sunset asked, arching her brow. “I think they’ll believe me.” She pulled out a cellphone from her pocket and hit the buttons, her finger dangling over the call button. “So, leave me alone, or you’ll be trading in green and gold for orange.”
“Yoink!” the blue girl grinned, snatching Sunset's phone away.
“Oh no, I won’t be able to reach another phone at some point,” Sunset said, her voice oozing sarcasm.
“Look, you brat.” Yellow stormed over, towering over her. “Get out of our school our we’ll make your life hell.”
“Well, when you put it like that,” Sunset said, tapping her chin in thought. “No, I think I’ll just call the cops when I get home and keep going to school here.”
“We'll see how you feel in a few days.” Yellow smiled, patting her head before moving to the door.
“Yeah, good luck topping eating garbage and sleeping in a box,” she muttered, watching them leave.
The blue one popped back in. “Psst. Your phone.” She held it out, an apologetic smile on her face.Sunset smiled a little, and reached out to take her phone. “I’m really sorry about them. They get really mean.”
“It’s fine.” Sunset sighed and took her phone. “I’ve dealt with worse than them.”
“Still, I'm really sorry!” She reached out, giving Sunset a hug. “I'm Sonata Dusk by the way.”
“I’m Sunset Shimmer,” Sunset said, returning the hug carefully. “And you don’t have to apologize for what those two did.”
“Yes I do, I just stood there and watched...” Sonata looked over her shoulder. “I gotta go, be safe.” She ran down the hall and out of sight. Sunset smiled and looked down at her phone.
“Well, I know at least two good people in this school now. I think I can handle some dumb bullying for that.” She pocketed her phone and started to jog home.
It didn't take her long to come home, and her face to start to ache. She braced herself for the reaction, stepping inside. “Mom, Dad, I’m home!” Her father leaned over the bannister and smiled at her, not noticing the mark on her face yet.
“Sunny!” He beamed. “How was your first day of High School?”
“It was... okay...” she replied, dropping her book bag on the couch. He came down the stairs and finally noticed the swelling.
“What happened?”
“Some girls got a little mean...” She rubbed her neck. “I’m okay though.”
“Do you want to go back to the Academy?” he asked with a concerned look.
“No!” Sunset blurted out quickly. “I’m not gonna let a pair of bit- uh, mean girls run me outta school.” Star smiled softly at her, ruffling her hair.
“Okay, if that’s what you want. Just be safe.”
“I did make a new friend though.” She pushed his hand away, fixing her hair.
“That’s great,” he said. “What’s their name?”
“His name is Alias, I think he’s a senior but he was nice to me after I ran into him in the hall.”
“Well, that’s good,” he said slowly. “I hope you keep making new friends. Were you able to understand the lessons?”
“They were a little hard but I like the challenge.” It reminded her a bit of when she first attended the Academy, moving from a normal school to one meant to prepare you for higher learning. Sure, it was hard, but it felt so good to overcome it.
“That’s good, give that big old brain a workout,” he joked, poking her temple. She giggled, shaking her head.
“Oh come on Dad, I do that all the time.”
“True, you might be addicted,” he said. “I think we need to have an intervention.” She shook her head, giving him a playful shove.
“Look who's talking, we didn't see you for an entire week when that comet passed by.”
“Oh, and you didn’t complain when you hung up those pictures of it on your walls,” he teased. “And you begged me to let you look through the satellite telescope at it.”
“You're just a bad influence.” Sunset pouted. “Why couldn't I get a normal dad who likes football?”
“Because you prefer the one who knows how to jury rig your game systems to play games that are exclusively overseas,” he shot back.
“I dunno why they region lock that stuff,” she muttered, crossing her arms.
“I think part of it is their outlets are different,” he offered. “But I’m no expert on this sorta thing. Just be glad you have me around. Otherwise you’d miss out on insane games that are a ton of fun.”
“Yeah you are great at that.” She nodded sagely. “So... where’s Mom and Herc?”
“She took him to a playdate with one of the kids from his pre-school,” he said. “There is something we should talk about.” He rubbed his neck. “You are getting older and you're gonna have sex ed soon enough...”
“Oh Faust… please don’t let this be ‘the talk’,” Sunset said, her eyes turning to pinpricks.
“Would you rather talk with June about this?” He shifted, looking just as uncomfortable. Sunset shuddered.
“Okay, I see your point. Let’s… just try to get this over with.”
He sat down, patting the spot next to him. She sat down, not looking at him directly.
“How... much do you know... about this?”
“Not much,” she admitted. “I never mess with the parental blocks you set up and most of what I heard from other kids just seems woefully inaccurate.”
“Oh yeah? Like what?”
“Like guys peeing to make a baby with a girl,” she said.
Star couldn't help but snort in amusement. “That's close but, nothing as gross.”
“Okay, then tell me the real deal, and do it before I die of embarrassment,” she said, shifting in her seat.
“Alright so, girls have a space here.” He poked her abdomen. “Where a baby grows. They have little tiny eggs that make up half a person.”
“Yeah, DNA, right?” she asked, looking at where he poked.
“That's right. Boys have something called sperm, little tiny squirmy things that carry the other half. When a baby is made, a sperm cell merges with an egg and boom!” He clapped his hands together. “You got the makings of a person.”
“Okay, but how do the egg and the sperm come together in the first place?” Sunset asked.
“I was afraid you'd ask that,” he groaned, grabbing her backpack, pulling out a pen and some paper. “Let's say this is the girl.” He drew a circle. “And this is the boy.” He drew a line. He looked at her, giving her a moment to figure it out.
“Okay…” she said, showing she understood so far.
“Any ideas?” he asked, counting on her quick thinking so he didn't have to say it himself.
“Umm, the guy puts his… thing into the girl’s… place and that lets the sperm out?”
“I am very glad you’re so smart.” He leaned over, kissing her head. “It's a little more complicated than that, but that's the simple version, and all you need to know about that until you take the class.” Sunset relaxed, letting out a sigh of relief. “However,” he spoke, dashing her hopes if a quick escape, “I’m gonna have to ruin your day.”
“What do you mean?” she asked with a gulp.
“I want you to know that I’m not telling you this to scare you, far from it. Im telling you this so you don't wake up one morning thinking you're going to die or something.”
“Okay, what is it?” she asked, fidgeting more.
“Okay so...” he cleared his throat. “That place where babies grow is called a uterus. When a girl gets old enough, each month an egg enters it. If she doesn't get pregnant, the uterus sheds its lining and well...”
“Oh, this is that period Mom talks about,” Sunset said with a nod of understanding. “She already warned me about this part.”
“Oh sweet merciful heaven you.” He sprawled out on the couch, letting out a long sigh. “Your mother is a life saver.”
“Is that everything you wanted to talk about?” she asked.
“Just... be careful okay? You might still feel like a kid, but you're less of one each day.” He put a hand on her shoulder. “I trust you to be responsible. So if you find someone you want to be intimate with, use protection.”
“I don’t think you’ll have to worry about that,” she said with a giggle. “The kids in my classes are gonna be older than me for a while so I don’t think anyone will wanna date me.”
“Still, be careful.” He socked her on the arm. “Listen, I know this has been a little awkward... okay, very awkward, but I wanted to be a responsible parent. Now.” He stood up, stretching. “Wanna go play something?”
“Yes, please,” Sunset replied with a sigh of relief. “I’m up for anything after that.”
He smirked, doing a twirl. “Let's do the time warp again!!”
“I’ll go get the top hats,” she said with a chuckle. He smiled, holding his arm out, which she happily took. “Unless you want the underwear, doctor?”
“That depends, do you want to see your father in lingerie, makeup and a pearl necklace?” he shot back with a smirk.
“...Maybe on Halloween. But then... who’d be Eddie?”
“Hmm, good question,” he said, rubbing his chin. “We’ll have to think about that before the holiday comes around.”
“Anyway.” Sunset racked her brain for a suitable activity. “We could watch Flash Gordon again.”
“True, that never gets old for the soundtrack alone,” he agreed. “Shall we head to the theater?”
“We shall!” Sunset agreed, leading him further into their home. He set everything up, including grabbing popcorn for them and they settled in to watch the movie.
“I’ll get it!” Sunset called, raising up from her seat. She moved over to the house phone, lifting it up from its charger. “This is the Dust residence, may I ask who's speaking?”
“Um, this is Moon Dancer,” a young sounding girl replied. “Can I please speak to Mr. Star Dust?”
“One moment.” She moved the phone away from her mouth, covering it. “Hey Dad! Its for you.” He walked down the stairs, pulling safety goggles off his face and taking off rubber gloves. He took the phone from his daughter and put it to his ear.
“Hello, this is Star Dust.”
“H-hi... m-my name is Moon Dancer...”
“Can I ask why you’re calling?” he asked, wondering if she was selling anything.
“I-I...” she stuttered. “Y-you're my...”
“It’s okay, take as much time as you need to say what you want,” he said, his paternal instincts kicking in.
“Y-you're my... d-dad.”
“Really?!” he asked, a giddy expression spreading on his face. “That’s fantastic. Would you like to meet me and my family?”
“Y-yes please,” she squeaked, surprised by his sudden shouting.
“Okay, did you have a place in mind? Or would you rather come and see my home?” he asked, getting a pen and paper that was kept next to the phone so he could keep track of their plans.
“You'll have to talk to my mom,” Moon Dancer spoke, sounding a little overwhelmed.
“Of course, of course,” he said, nodding. “Could you please put your mother on the phone?”
“Yes, sir.” A series of noises came through the phone until a woman's voice came through.
“Hello?”
“Yes, this is Star Dust,” Star said. “Moon Dancer just told me that I’m her father and I was hoping I could meet her.”
“I don't think that’ll be a problem. I was hoping you’d want to meet her.”
“Great, where and when would you like to arrange this?” he asked with a smile. “My family’s schedule is pretty open at the moment.”
“Do you know that donut shop in Canterlot?”
“Do you mean Donut Joe’s?” he asked, his pen at the ready.
“That's the place! Is Saturday at noon good?”
“That sounds perfect,” he replied, writing it down. “I’ll see you then. And don’t tell Moon Dancer this, but I’m going to grab her a present to make up for all the missed birthdays,” he whispered.
“I think she’ll like that.”
“I can’t wait, see you then,” he said, preparing to hang up.
“Good bye.” He hung up and stepped away from the phone.
“Sunset, I have great news!” he called out.
“Yeah?” Sunset asked, stepping back into the den.
“Apparently, that girl that called is your sister,” he said, smiling at her. “We’re meeting her and her mother at Donut Joe’s this Saturday.”
“Seriously?! I have a sister?” Sunset beamed, a thousand possibilities running through her head.
“Yup, and we’re grabbing her a present to make up for all the missed birthdays,” he said, adjusting his glasses. “Want to help me pick something out for her?”
“Heck yeah I do!” she paused, reining in her enthusiasm. “Do you know what she likes?”
“Considering I just found out she exists, no I don’t,” he replied. “That’s why I’m enlisting your help. Two heads are better than one.”
“Spoken like a true nerd.” Sunset grinned.
“I’m sorry, what’s your GPA again?” he teased.
“Higher than yours was,” she shot back.
“Only because you have two awesome scientist parents to tutor you,” he countered with a chuckle and ruffled her hair. “Now let’s tell your mother and brother about this.”
“After you.” She fixed her hair, sticking it up in a ponytail. They walked into the den where June was reading a book and Herc was making a crayon drawing on the floor.
“Who was on the phone?” June asked, looking up from her book. “I heard you two getting pretty excited over something.”
“I have a sister!” Sunset beamed, letting her excitement rise again.
“I’m guessing you mean other than Lemon?” June asked with a smile, placing a bookmark in her book and putting it down.
“Her name is Moon Dancer,” Star explained, “We’re gonna meet her in Canterlot this weekend.”
“I have another sister?” Herc asked, perking up.
“That's right, Herc “ Sunset confirmed, sitting down next to him.
“Yay!” Herc cheered, hugging Sunset. She hugged back, pulling him into her lap.
“Looks like our crazy family is growing,” June noted, looking at Star. “Think it’ll get any bigger?”
“Well now you jinxed us.” Star rolled his eyes, pulling her into a kiss. Sunset and Herc grabbed their throats and made gagging noises as their parents kissed. They pulled away and June smirked.
“Wanna see me jinx it even more?” She cleared her throat. “There’s no way we’ll make another ourselves,” she said in an exaggerated manner. Star smirked, pulling her close to him.
Eventually, the day of the meeting came and Star, Sunset, Herc and June were driving up to the donut shop, with Sunset holding a wrapped gift in her lap.
“Do we know who we’re looking for?” June asked, watching the scenery whiz by.
“Thanks to caller ID, I called her back and got a description,” Star assured her, parallel parking into a spot in front of the shop. “We’re looking for a white girl with red hair that has purple streaks, purple eyes, and glasses.”
“I just hope they don’t mind us being a little late,” Sunset commented, unbuckling Herc so he could get out of his car seat.
“I’m sure they’ll understand weekend traffic,” Star assured as they piled out of the car. Sunset held Herc’s hand, carrying the present in her other hand. They entered the donut shop, scanning the room for the people they were supposed to meet. Sitting in a corner was a woman and two girls, one in her early teens and one appearing to be around ten. The one girl matched the description they were given.
The younger girl perked up when she saw them, hiding a little behind her mother. Star walked up to her and smiled.
“Hi there, are you Moon Dancer?” he asked. “I’m Star Dust.”
“N-nice to meet you sir.” Moon Dancer snuck a peek out of him. She wore her hair up in a messy bun, with a thick pair of glass, taped up in the middle, and a black turtleneck.
“You don’t have to call me sir,” Star told her. “Also, looks like you got my vision problems.” He toyed with his own glasses to demonstrate.
“I’m Moonlight Thriller.” Her mother stood up, holding her hand out. He shook it and smiled.
“Nice to meet you as well,” he told her.
“As you know, this is Moon Dancer.” She gestured to her youngest. “And this, is my oldest, Moon Waltz.”
“Hello,” the older girl greeted, giving a little wave.
“And hello to you too. This is my wife, June Bug,” he gestured to June, “my oldest, Sunset Shimmer. And my son, Hercules Nebula.”
“It’s nice to meet you Moon Dancer,” Sunset greeted, sitting down across from her.
“N-nice to meet you too,” Moon Dancer replied, her eyes drifting towards the gift in her hand. “What’s that?”
“It’s for you.” Sunset smiled, passing it over to her. “Dad wanted to make it up to you for all the missed birthdays.” Moon Dancer blinked a bit and started to carefully peel away at the wrapping paper. Once the present was revealed she gasped.
“Y-you got me a laptop?” Moon Dancer asked, running her hands over the box.
“The first thing Dad got me was a laptop,” Sunset said with a smile. “We thought that you might like something like this.”
“That's a really nice gift,” Moonlight commented, looking at Star. “I’ll be honest, I’m really glad you wanted to meet us. I was afraid you’d want nothing to do with her.
Star chuckled and said, “No, I’d never do something like that. The reason I went to the clinic and made a… donation in the first place was because I wanted to have children but didn’t think I’d ever find someone to start a family with.”
“I can tell you, I was really nervous when I met dad too,” Sunset said, looking at Moon Dancer.
“You were?” Moon Dancer asked, looking up from her gift.
“Yeah. See, I’m like you. My mom had me through the clinic.” Sunset gave her a sad smile.
“Wh-what happened to your mom?” Moon Dancer asked with a nervous frown.
“She passed away when I was eight.” Sunset looked out the window, sighing. “I miss her a lot.”
“I’m sorry,” Moon Dancer said, glancing at her mom. “I shouldn’t have asked.”
“Don’t worry about it, it doesn’t hurt to talk about.” Sunset brightened up. “Why don’t you tell me about yourself?”
“I’m not very interesting,” Moon Dancer dismissed, shrinking a bit. “I just study and read most days.”
“I do both of those things too. What's your favorite book?”
“Um… Daring Do, if I had to pick just one,” Moon Dancer replied.
“I dressed up as her last halloween. Took forever to get the hair dye out.” Sunset giggled. “We took tons of pictures.”
“That sounds like a lot of fun,” Moon Dancer said, a soft smile on her face. “Mom probably wouldn’t let me dye my hair for a costume.”
“Won’t know until you ask,” Sunset pointed out. “How old are you, Moon?”
“I’m ten, what about you?” Moon asked.
“I’m thirteen, going on fourteen soon. Where do you go to school?”
“I go to Crystal Academy,” Moon Dancer said. “It’s not very friendly there, but the courses are good.”
“I went to Sleipnir Academy, over in Nifelheim,” Sunset explained. “But I was doing so well, they moved me up to Fenrir High.”
“You’re in high school already?” Moon Dancer gasped. “That’s incredible!”
“Yeah.” Sunset rubbed her neck, blushing a little. “And if I keep my grades up, I might even be graduating next year.”
“That’s so cool!” Moon Dancer gushed. “I’ve been working as hard as I can and I’ve never been asked to skip a grade.”
“I’m sure it’ll happen. I bet you're the smartest girl in your school.”
“Thanks, but there’s this other girl named Twilight there,” Moon Dancer said with a pout. “People say she’s the smartest girl in the school.”
“You’ll just have to prove them wrong won’t ya?” Sunset asked, giving her younger sister an encouraging smile.
“I’ll certainly try,” Moon Dancer replied, her smile returning. “Thanks, Sunset.”
“You’re welcome Moon.” Sunset held her arm out, offering her a hug. Moon decided to take it and gave her new sister a hug. “We have a lot of catching up to do you know.”
“I already told you, I’m not very interesting,” Moon said, chuckling weakly and pushing her glasses up. “It won’t take me long to tell you about me.”
“I’m all ears.”
“Well, my mom runs a dance studio in the city,” Moon started. “She’s really good and can teach anyone to dance.”
“She could teach dad a thing or two. He’s got seven left feet,” Sunset informed.
“Hey!” Star Dust protested, looking over from his conversation with Moonlight.
“Honey, it’s true,” June said with a giggle. “As someone who shared a wedding dance with you, I can say in all confidence that you have all the rhythm of a fish flopping on a pier.”
“I can't believe this.” Star threw his hands up in exasperation. “First my daughter and now my wife. My whole family is turning against me.” Sunset and June giggled at his antics.
“Ignore him,” Sunset said to Moon Dancer. “He’s being silly.” Moon Dancer giggled, looking rather relaxed now. “Ooh, I had an idea,” Sunset said, her eyes lighting up. “Why don’t you come over to my house sometime so we can study together? With my help you’ll be skipping grades in no time!”
“Really?” Moon Dancer asked, her eyes sparkling. “You'd do that?”
“Of course,” Sunset replied with a bright smile. “You’re my little sister, it’s my job to help you out.”
“Can I, Mom?” Moon Dancer turned to her mother, giving her a hopeful expression.
“As if I’d say no to you visiting family and furthering your education,” Moonlight said, chuckling and patting her daughter’s head.
“So you play any games?” Sunset asked, getting Moon’s attention.
“Um, what kind of games do you mean?” Moon Dancer asked. “That’s kind of a broad question. Though I do play both board and video games sometimes.”
“Video games,” Sunset clarified, amused by her sister’s need for specifics.
“Yeah, I sometimes play those. I like this one called Puzzle Fighter. It’s pretty fun.”
“I don't think I’ve played that one.” Sunset shock her head. “I play a lot of RPGs.”
“Those are fun too,” Moon said with a smile. “The stories can be pretty out there. I can bring over Puzzle Fighter to show you if you want.”
“I’d like that a lot, Moon.” Sunset returned her smile. “Do you have a lot of friends?”
“Um, a couple,” Moon replied, deflating a bit. “Crystal Academy isn’t exactly a friendly environment though. One of my friends is named Minuette, but everyone calls her Colgate because she wants to be a dentist.”
“Any boyfriends?” Sunset asked with a teasing smile.
“No,” Moon replied with a shake of her head. “What about you?”
“Nah, just me.” Sunset shook her head. “I'm still a few years younger than most people in my school.”
“Yeah, guess that would make things tricky,” Moon agreed. “Do you have anyone you like, though?”
“Well... there is this one guy but, he’s already with someone.”
“Does this someone have a name?” Moon asked with a giggle,
“His name is Alias.”
“Ooh, what’s he like?” Moon asked with a grin.
“He’s witty, plays the guitar, has this really nice accent.”
“Sounds like you’ve got it bad for him,” Moon Waltz teased with a smile. “Is this your first crush?”
“I don't have a crush!” Sunset denied, her face darkening.
“Uh huh, and Dancer here doesn’t need her glasses,” Waltz said, pointing at her sister’s eyewear.
“But I do need them,” Moon said innocently.
“It’s called sarcasm, little sis.” Waltz chuckled and patted her sister’s head.
“I do not have a crush on Alias,” Sunset insisted with a frown.
“See, the more you deny it, the more fun it is to tease you,” Waltz said with a grin. Sunset huffed, crossing her arms.
“So, who’s Alias in a relationship with?” Moon asked, ignoring her older sister.
“Another friend of mine, Sonata Dusk. Her sisters aren't exactly the nicest people, but she's really nice.”
“Ouch,” Waltz replied with a wince. “One of your friends dating the guy you like. That’s always a tough break.”
“He’s too old for me anyway,” Sunset dismissed.
“True, there’s always another guy,” Waltz offered. “I bet the next guy you like will be ten times better than Alias.”
“I'm not looking for someone better, just someone who likes me back,” Sunset corrected, leaning on the table.
“I’m sure you’ll find someone like that,” Waltz said with a nod.
“What about you?” Sunset asked, “You got anyone?”
“I dumped my boyfriend two weeks ago,” Waltz said with a frown. “He was cheating on me.”
“Ouch, that must have hurt.” Sunset winced.
“It gets better,” Waltz said with a sigh. “He was cheating on me with another guy.”
“Oh wow.” Sunset’s eyes went wide. “You didn't... out him did you?”
“No way,” Waltz replied with a shake of her head. “We talked and we’re just friends now. I wouldn’t hurt someone like that.”
“I hope I didn't offend you, it’s just...” Sunset rubbed her arm. “I've known spiteful people like that.“
“None taken,” Waltz waved off. “I have too.”
“Trust me, I got the short end of that stick.” Sunset shook her head.
“Sounds like there’s a long story there,” Waltz commented.
“I could tell it, if you want,” Sunset offered, “We’ve got the time.”
“Only if you’re comfortable telling it,” Waltz replied with a concerned look.
“When my mom died, the only family I had left was my grandmother,” Sunset recounted, looking at the table, “You’d think that wouldn't be too bad, that we’d be there for each other, but not her. She hated my guts.”
“Wh-what happened?” Moon Dancer asked, gulping.
“A few days after the funeral, she threw me out of the house. I mean, who does that? How can someone hate an eight year old so much that they toss them out on the street?”’’
“There’s all kinds of bad people out there,” Waltz said with a sigh. “I’m so sorry you had to go through that.” Moon sniffled and hugged Sunset.
Sunset hugged her life sister back. “I spent three months in a box behind a restaurant eating out of the trash.”
“Oh, that sounds awful,” Waltz said. “You’re lucky to still be alive.”
“I was found by one of the waiters and after a few weeks in a foster home, I met my dad.” She smiled, glancing over at where the adults were talking. “Whenever I think about him and June, it doesn't hurt as much.”
“I’m glad to hear that,” Waltz said. “You’re one strong kid, Sunny.”
“Don't call me kid, you're only like what? Three years older than me?” Sunset protested, trying to lighten the mood.
“I’ll call you kid if I want,” Waltz replied with a smirk. “Call me when you get one of these.” She pulled out her licence and waved it in Sunset’s face.
“Oh that's low and you know it.” Sunset glared. “How do you sleep at night?”
“With a fan on and two pillows under my head,” Waltz retorted.
“Ooh that's cold.” Sunset mock shivered. “I bet you're the ice queen of your school.”
“No, that would be Cold Shoulder,” Waltz replied with a chuckle.
“Ouch, someone actually named their kid that?”
“Yeah, her parents run an ice cream parlor,” Waltz said.
“Okay, that makes a lot more sense.” Sunset nodded. “I take it you go to Crystal Prep?”
“Yeah, I’m part of the school’s dance team,” Waltz replied.
“Oh yeah?” Sunset leaned in. “You any good?”
“Oh yeah, I’ve won two state championships,” Waltz said, leaning back in her chair.
“That all? I won the state math competition.”
“I’m also getting ready for a national competition,” Waltz said.
“I won the regional spelling bee...” Dancer piped up meekly.
“Aww, I knew you got Dad’s brain too,” Sunset said, hugging her little sister. Dancer smiled, hugging her back. “I’m glad I met you guys,” Sunset said with a sigh of contentment. “You guys are awesome.”
“I think you're great too.” Dancer smiled. “Um... Sunset?”
“What is it, Moon?” Sunset asked, looking down at the younger girl.
“Would you come to my school's family day?”
“I’d love to visit your school.” Sunset smiled and squeezed Dancer.
“Thanks!” Dancer smiled, pushing her glasses back into place. “Its two weeks from now, on a Saturday.”
“I’ll be there for sure,” Sunset assured. “Do you want Dad there too?”
“If he wants to.” She nodded
“Not even an army would keep him away,” Sunset told her with a giggle.
“What are we talking about now?” Star asked, looking over.
“Moon Dancer invited me to her school’s family day two Saturdays from now and you’re invited too,” Sunset explained with a smile.
“I’d love to Moon Dancer.” Star Dust grinned. “We can brag about how smart we are to everyone.”
“Yeah, I bet Twilight’s dad can’t build the kind of things ours can,” Sunset said with a grin of her own. “Think we’ll have our secret project finished by then?” she asked, looking up at him.
“If we double time it, I know it will!”
“That school won’t know what hit them!” Sunset cheered, high fiving her father.
“See what I have to put up with?” June asked, giving Thriller a mock scowl.
“It’s like you’re raising three children.” Thriller shook her head and patted the other woman’s shoulder in mock comfort.
“She’s as much a kid as we are.” Sunset rolled her eyes. “You should see how she gets when we get a new gadget.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about,”June said, turning her nose up.
“She almost lost her mind when we got an old betamax player.”
“Betamax was better than VHS,” June grumbled. “VHS just got the bigger marketing push. It’s the cassettes and eight-tracks debacle all over again.”
“That's what you said about LaserDisc,” Star Dust reminded.
“Okay, I’ll admit to being wrong on that one,” June said. “But I remain resolute in my opinion on betamax… And Apple for that matter. They put a shiny paint job on tech that’s slightly outdated and then overprice it like a foreign luxury car. That turtlenecked b-jerk is the modern day snake oil salesman.” She censored herself for Herc’s and Dancer’s sake.
“What's wrong with turtlenecks?” Dancer asked quizzically.
“Nothing,” June replied with a chuckle. “I was referring to the person wearing the turtleneck. He always wears one so it’s an easy way to identify him.”
“Oh. Okay.” Dancer nodded, still hugging onto Sunset.
“Moon Dancer’s shift from nervous to affectionate reminds me a lot of you, Sunny,” Star commented, smiling and adjusting his glasses.
“We are sisters, after all,” Sunset replied with a grin.
“I’d like to be more involved in Moon Dancer’s life, if I’m able,” Star Dust said, turning to Moonlight.
“Of course,” Moonlight said. “She’d love to get to know her father more.”
“How about it Moon Dancer? Wanna spend time with your old man?”
“Yeah!” Moon Dancer chimed, a bright smile spreading on her face. “I’d like that a lot!” Star Dust smiled, extending his arm out for a hug. She released Sunset and hugged Star, burying her head in his torso.
Star wrapped his arms around her, lifting her up into his lap. “Sunset and I are going to the museum this weekend, would you like to go too?”
“Yeah, I love museums!” Dancer beamed.
“Alright then, it's a date,” he joked, fixing her glasses for her. Dancer smiled and settled in his lap.
Days passed, and Sunset and Star were in their workshop, both clad in safety goggles.
“And Voila!” Star Dust exclaimed, placing his tools down. “It's finished.”
“We’ll have to test it out in the morning,” Sunset said, putting her own tools down. “We don’t want to start a fire at Dancer’s school.” He nodded and wiped his hands clean.
“True, we don’t want a repeat incident after our last experiment,” Star said. He leaned over, kissing her head. “We’ll knock their socks off.” Sunset nodded and yawned.
“Yeah, but for now we should get some sleep.” She stretched and walked towards the door. Star did one last check to make sure everything was off before following her out, locking the door up tight.
Children of the Star-Another Sunset
Moon Dancer was riding in the back of Star’s car with Sunset beside her. “So what was that thing you guys had under the sheet?” Dancer asked, looking between the two.
“Can't tell ya yet.” Sunset smirked. “It's a secret~”
“Aww, please?” Moon begged, giving her sister a pleading look. “I won’t tell anyone before you show it off.”
“You’ll just have to wait and see, Moon.” Sunset shook her head.
“Fine,” Moon pouted, crossing her arms as she looked out the window. Sunset chuckled, ruffling Moon’s hair.
“I’m glad to hear you’re so excited about what we’ve prepared,” Star commented from the front seat. “By the way, how’s your laptop treating you, Moon?”
“Oh it's great dad.” Moon smiled. “We bought a desk for it and everything.”
“I’m glad to hear it.” He smiled. “Just try not to get addicted to it like a certain someone.” He gave Sunset a teasing look through the rearview mirror.
“I'm not addicted to the computer,” Sunset protested with a frown.
“You’re right,” he conceded. “You can easily pull yourself away from the computer for one of your RPG’s.”
“Should I bring up the time you didn't shower for two weeks?” Sunset threatened.
“It wasn’t two weeks,” Star protested. “It was a week and a half. June already chewed my head off for that one. And I at least own up to my addictions.”
“Uh huh, sure ya do.” Moon looked between the two and giggled to herself.
“Is this how you guys always act?” Moon asked.
“Yup.” Sunset nodded. “Dad’s basically just an oversized kid.”
“Maturity and acting like an adult just seemed so boring that I just never bothered with it,” Star added.
“See? Dad's a kid, he’s just tall.” Sunset beamed. Everyone in the car shared a laugh over that.
“Just remember Sunny, you’re my daughter. You’ll be the same way when you’re my age,” he told her with a grin.
“You say that like it’s a bad thing.”
“I was including forgetting to take showers in favor of crazy inventions in that,” he added.
“What? No way! I'm not as forgetful as you.”
“Give it time,” he teased. “Pretty soon you’ll need a June Bug of your own to remind you of your basic needs. Like food and hygiene.”
“Mrs. June is really nice.” Moon smiled, trying to come to Sunset’s aid.
“True,” Star replied. “Just one of many reasons that I married her.”
“You should have seen the look on her face when I started calling her mom.” Sunset smiled, bringing up the image in her mind.
“I was almost worried she cracked your ribs from that hug,” he said, remembering the moment as well.
“I wouldn't have minded. Much.” The rest of the trip was spent with some mild chit-chat amongst the three before they pulled into Crystal Academy’s parking lot. Star parked the car and took the sheet covered device out of the trunk.
“Nice place.” Sunset looked around, her eyes widening as she spotted a familiar family. “Hey Lemon Zest!”
“Sunset!” Lemon cheered as she rushed over to hug her. “It’s so good to see you!”
“It's great to see you too.” Sunset returned her hug, beaming.
“Nice to see you again Lemon,” Star greeted.
“Nice to see you too Mr. Dust. And hey to you too, Moonie,” Lemon greeted.
“H-hi Lemon.” Moon waved.
“It's alright Moon, Lemon’s family,” Sunset assured with an easy smile.
“Yeah, Sunset’s my sister, which makes us sisters too.” Lemon wrapped an arm around Moon’s shoulder. “She told me all about you in our emails.” Moon hesitated a little before hugging Lemon back. “So, you got something cool planned for this?” Lemon turned to Sunset. “You were all hush, hush in your messages.”
“You know it L, we’re gonna knock everyone's socks off.” Sunset smirked. “What about you? You got anything to show off?”
“You kidding? The folks are gonna be showing off some custom amps we cooked up.” She jabbed a thumb over her shoulder as her parents wheeled over equipment on carts.
“A pleasure seeing you both again.” Star walked over, getting into an animated conversation with the two.
“So are you really gonna leave your sisters in the dark on this thing you’re showing off?” Lemon asked Sunset with an easy smile.
“Hey, my lips are sealed, especially with you two.” Sunset rolled her eyes. ”Can't risk it leaking out before the reveal.”
“You’re cold, Sunny,” Lemon teased. “Come on, I’ll show you where this is all going down.” She turned and led the two into the building.
“Are you two friends?” Sunset asked, looking between her sisters.
“We don’t have that many classes together, but ever since you told me she was your sister, I’ve been having lunch with her to get to know her better,” Lemon answered.
“Looking after her, I hope?”
“You know it!” Lemon beamed. “Zests always look out for family.”
“Lemon’s really nice...” Moon added, pushing her glasses back up her nose.
“I gotta treat my family right,” Lemon replied, patting Moon on the shoulder. Moon smiled, relaxing a little.
“Are there any really bad bullies at this school?” Sunset asked. “You never really talked about that in our messages.”
“I mean, the whole school is competition obsessed.” Lemon frowned. “It can get real bad during events.”
“Yeah, it’s especially bad at Crystal Prep when the Friendship Games roll around,” Moon added.
“Friendship Games?” Sunset asked curiously
“It’s an event that happens every few years between Crystal Prep and Canterlot High School,” Lemon explained. “It’s an athletic and academic competition.”
“Huh.” Sunset blinked. “Fenrir High doesn't have anything like that.”
“We’re not quite sure why they do it,” Moon said. “It was started a long time ago.”
“Well, I'll make sure to catch yours.” Sunset smiled, pulling them both into a hug.
“Thanks Sunset,” Moon said. “Though we may not participate in it. Only a select group called the Shadowbolts take part in it.”
“Shadowbolts huh? I know the two of you will make the cut.”
“Thanks Sunset, though I don’t know if I wanna make the cut,” Moon said. “I’ve heard rumors that the principal at Crystal Prep takes the games way too seriously.”
“I heard the principal before her was even worse.” Lemon shivered.
“Yeah, I heard he slipped his students performance enhancing drugs,” Moon said. “Crystal Prep was supposedly sued over it.”
“My friend Sugarcoat told me he used to be married to CHS’s vice principal.”
“I’m guessing if that’s true then she probably divorced him after hearing about slipping illegal drugs to students without their knowledge,” Sunset guessed.
“What's more is, he got custody of their son.” Lemon made a face. “I'd hate to be that kid.”
“Man, I feel sorry for him,” Sunset said with a frown. “I mean, his dad and mine couldn’t be more different.”
“Yeah, your dad is pretty cool.” Lemon smirked. “Not as cool as mine though.”
“My dad owns a house full of secret passages,” Sunset retorted with a smirk.
“Oh yeah? My dad used to be in a famous band,” Lemon shot back.
“My dad is currently the foremost scientist in his field,” Sunset retorted.
“Yeah, but I bet he doesn't have people asking for his autograph.”
“He totally has,” Sunset said.
“No way!” Lemon scoffed, “Your dad’s a turbo nerd.”
“Turbo nerds have fans too, Lemon,” Sunset said.
“You two really are like sisters,” Moon Dancer piped up as they reached the doors to the auditorium.
“You should’ve seen it when we lived together,” Sunset said as they walked in. “Lemon hogged all the hot water because she wouldn’t stop singing in the shower.”
“I had to practice.” Lemon stuck her tongue out, walking inside. The place was packed with people, with families setting up their presentations.
“Wow, looks like a lot of families are going all out for this,” Sunset commented.
“I told you it got competitive.” Lemon nodded. “My family’s by the side door. Let's find your booth.” Sunset and Moon nodded and eventually found Star putting the last touches on the booth towards the center of the auditorium.
“Hi girls, did you have fun catching up?” he asked.
“Totally.” Sunset nodded. “You get everything set up?”
“Yup, it’s all good to go,” he said with a thumbs up.
“Sweet.” Sunset grinned, only to blink as Lemon poked her side.
“Sunny, that cop is totally eyeballing you.” She pointed to a booth not too far away, where a blue skinned cop was helping a purple girl set something up.
“Whoa, that’s the guy who picked me up at that restaurant all those years ago,” Sunset said.
“Wait, really?” Star asked, following their gaze. “Do you want to go over, Sunny?”
“I guess we should,” Sunset replied, starting to walk up to him. She stopped at the booth, clearing her throat. “Uh... hello sir.”
“I can’t believe I’m seeing you again,” the officer said, adjusting his hat. “Hello Sunset.”
“It's good to see you again too sir.” She nodded, shifting on her feet a little. “I'm sorry but, I can’t quite remember your name.”
“It’s Night Light,” he replied with a chuckle. “So what are you doing here?”
“Oh well, my little sister asked my dad and I to come with her today.” Sunset beamed, gesturing to her family's booth.
“And where do you go to school?” Night Light asked. “If I remember correctly you should be about thirteen so you should be a middle schooler too.”
“Actually, I'm in my third year at Fenrir High,” Sunset corrected with a hint of pride in her voice.
“Seriously?” The purple girl by Nightlight gasped. “Fenrir high is like… the top high school in the state.”
“Sleipnir Academy said I was just too smart for them,” Sunset joked. “Is this your daughter?” Sunset asked, looking at Night Light.
“Yup, say hello to Twilight Sparkle,” he said, patting his daughter on the head. “She’s got her mother’s good looks and love of books.”
“It's nice to meet you, Twilight.” Sunset smiled, holding her hand out. “Your dad helped save my life you know.”
“Yeah, I think I remember him telling me about you when I was little,” Twilight replied, shaking her hand. “He came home and hugged me for a long time.”
“Yeah, it was pretty sad,” Sunset agreed, “Anyway, I heard you've been giving my little sister a hard time in the brains department.”
“What do you mean?” Twilight asked, gulping. “I-I try to stay out of people’s way.”
“Relax, I was joking,” Sunset assured her.
“So, you found your dad?” Night asked, smiling at her. “I remember you saying you didn’t have one.”
“Yeah.” Sunset beamed. “His name is Star Dust. He’s amazing.”
“Your dad is Star Dust!?” Twilight gasped, her sparkling. “As in the famous astrophysicist?!”
“The one and only.” Sunset nodded. “I could introduce you if you want.”
“C-could I get his autograph too?” Twilight asked with a sheepish smile. “He’s one of my heroes.”
“You're not the first to ask that,” Sunset chuckled, “I know he won't have any problems with it.”
“Thank you.” Twilight smiled and let Sunset lead her over to Star.
“Hey Dad, I found you a groupie,” Sunset joked, getting their attention.
“So you found another budding scientist that likes my work?” Star asked with a grin, looking down at Twilight.
“H-hello sir...” Twilight stuttered, looking at her shoes.
“You don’t have to call me sir,” Star said with a soft smile. “Just Star Dust will do.”
“I'm Twilight Sparkle...”
“It’s very nice to meet you, Twilight,” Star said. “I always love to see young people taking interest in my work.”
“She would like to know if she could have your autograph,” Sunset explained.
“Of course you can,” Star stated. “Is there anything specific you’d like me to sign?” Twilight nodded, holding out a small book, a copy of one of his own.
“That’s my first book,” he noted, taking it and pulling out a pen. “I believe there’s a section with my doctorate research on black holes.” He signed it, leaving a message for her.
“I’ve read it at least a dozen times, it's all so fascinating!” Twilight grinned, hugging the book to her chest.
“That’s why I study space in the first place,” Star said. “The motion of stars and galaxies, the effects that black holes have on the light of surrounding stars, I want to study it all.”
“Sometimes, he gets so into it, he forgets to shower,” Sunset whispered, getting a giggle out of the younger girl.
“If it weren’t for my puppy, I’d probably forget to go to sleep some nights,” Twilight admitted with a chuckle.
“You got a puppy?” Sunset asked, letting her father get back to whatever he was doing.
“Uh huh,” Twilight nodded, “his name is Spike. He’s a tiny, little purple dog. I love him.”
“How'd he get a name like Spike?” Lemon asked, squeezing into the conversation.
“Oh um… I kinda liked the irony of such a cute, little dog having a name like that,” Twilight said with a weak smile.
“Heh, you're pretty funny, Purple Smart.” Lemon smiled. “How about Moonie and I hang out with ya at lunch?”
“Sure,” Twilight nodded, “I usually just read by myself after I finish my food.”
“Sweet!” Lemon grabbing Twilight, pulling the poor girl into a group hug with herself and Moon Dancer.
“Ack!” Twilight squeaked, squirming slightly. Sunset just shook her head, moving over to her father.
“Ready to unveil it?” Sunset asked, looking at their hidden invention.
“Ah yes, I do believe it’s time. Come on Sunny, we’re doing this together.” Star and Sunset grabbed the sheet and yanked it away from the device, revealing it to everyone.
“What is that?” Lemon asked, releasing her captives.
“It's a digital scent generator.” Star Dust grinned. “Care to try it?”
“Sure,” Lemon nodded, “just tell me what I gotta do.”
“Alright put your nose here.” He pointed to an upward-facing screen that was currently displaying a rose. She did as she said and took a deep breath through her nose.
“Whoa, that smells just like a rose!” Lemon said, backing away from the device.
“And June said this was pointless.” Star grinned. “Looks like we proved her wrong.”
“I don’t think it working proves that this thing isn’t pointless,” Sunset said, scratching her cheek. She pressed a button on the device, the image changing to a bar of chocolate.
“Bah!” He brushed her off with a dismissive wave.
“Anyway, who wants to try this next?” Sunset asked, rolling her eyes at her father’s behavior. Twilight stepped up eagerly, giving Sunset a smile. “Okay Twilight, just do the same thing that Lemon did.”
Twilight took in a deep breath, letting out a delighted hum. “That smells like the real thing!”
“That’s perfect,” Star said. “So far, we’ve got a little over 357 different scents programmed into the device.”
“I can't believe you got smells to do that.” Moon leaned in close, examining the machine.
“I got inspired from a sci-fi parody,” Star said, patting the device.
“Don't listen to him,” Sunset argued, “He totally made smell-o-vision.”,
“We’re still workshopping that name, but it is apt,” Star said with a shrug. “Anyway, who wants to try it now? Just name a smell and see if we nailed it.”
A small crowd gathered around, each person calling out a different smell.
“Hot dogs.” Star pressed a few buttons on the side of the machine and the image of a hot dog appeared on the screen. She took a long whiff, licking her lips.
“Seems we have another success on our hands. Who wants to try it next?” Star asked with a grin. A few more people went up, the crowd growing.
“I think it’s safe to say we’ve outdone Twilight,” Sunset whispered to Moon. Moon was beside herself, pulling her into a hug. “Glad to see you like our display,” Sunset said, returning the hug.
“It's amazing, Sunset!” Moon smiled, her glasses sliding down her nose.
“We had to go all out for you,” Sunset replied, fixing her sister’s glasses.
“Love you Sunny.”
“Love you too, Moonie,” Sunset replied, squeezing her little sister.
“Thanks for helping me move into the dorm, Mom.” Sunset smiled as they set her dresser down.
“As if I wouldn’t help you move into your dorm room,” June replied with a smile of her own. “And at Jormungand University. I couldn’t be more proud.”
“I owe it all to you and Dad.” Sunset stood up, wiping some sweat off her forehead. “Dad did say I could get into college before I was sixteen.”
“You’re being too modest.” June chuckled. “You worked so hard for this.”
“Yeah but you guys helped a lot,” Sunset argued.
“How about we split the credit 50/50 then?” June asked, extending her hand. Sunset smirked, shaking her hand.
“Agreed.” June smiled and pulled out a camera, snapping a quick photo.
“Alright, I’d better get going. Your father’s probably halfway through a tub of rocky road by now and crying. Have fun at your orientation, Sunny.”
“Give Herc a big hug for me will ya?” Sunset asked, walking her to the door.
“Of course,” June replied, “he’s gonna miss his big sister like crazy. Expect a ton of texts from him.”
“I'll make sure to come back for holidays,” Sunset assured with a smile.
“Oh, you don’t have a choice in that,” June said with a cheeky grin. “We’d drag you back against your will if we had to.”
“Have a safe trip, Mom.”
“And you learn a lot,” June said, giving Sunset a hug before leaving the dorm. Sunset waved her off before shutting her door.
“Now what?” she asked, looking around her newly furnished dorm. “I guess I could walk around the campus a bit. And I think there’s a place to grab a drink and snacks.” Sunset grabbed her wallet, left the dorm and started going for a walk.
She smirked at the odd looks she got, waving at the gawkers.
“Guess no one heard anything about me,” she said to herself, walking past a courtyard with a fountain. It was a rather nice day, the only person near her was a slightly older grey skinned boy with long white hair. He was absorbed in a book, not really paying attention. Sunset stopped to look at a flower bed, breathing in the fresh air before feeling something bump into her. “Gah!” She toppled over, luckily catching herself with her hands.
“Oh geez, are you alright?” The boy asked, looking down at her.
“I’m fine,” she assured him, getting up and brushing herself off. “I’ve been through worse than a little fall.”
“Still, I should have been watching where I was going.” He rubbed his neck. “I'm sorry about that.”
“Don’t worry about it,” she waved off. “I’ve been totally absorbed in a book before too.”
“I'm Grey Ghost.” He smiled weakly, holding his hand out.
“I’m Sunset Shimmer, nice to meet you,” she replied, shaking his hand.
“It's nice to meet you too.” He smiled, looking her over. “You got family on campus?”
“Nope, I made sure not to attend the college where my grandpa teaches,” she replied.
Grey blinked for a few moments before what she said registered. “Oh! You’re that child prodigy everyone's going on about.”
“I mean, more like a teenage prodigy at this point,” Sunset replied with a chuckle. “I mean, I’m nearly sixteen.”
“What made you pick this place? The way people talk about you, you could have gone anywhere in the country.”
“I liked the place,” she answered. “And I mean, my grades weren’t that good. You get a little over a 4.0 in your GPA and people start flipping out.”
“Uh huh, right.” He nodded in disbelief. “Anyway, were you headed anywhere? I could show you around if you'd like.”
“I was just walking around,” Sunset said. “But I wouldn’t say no to the company. You can even buy me a snack or something to make up for knocking me over.” She smirked, poking him in the chest.
“Alright, alright.” He put his hands up to placate her. “Got anything in mind?”
“I dunno, I’ll tell ya when we get there,” she replied. “But I hope you have deep pockets.” Her smirk grew and she started walking.
“I can't ever get a break.” He hung his head, leading her to the on campus cafe. Sunset took a deep breath, taking in all the exotic smells.
“Mmm, I can tell this place is gonna be a pretty common place for me to go to,” she said. “And it looks like they have good pastries too.”
“Yeah, it’s pretty good.” He gave her a smile. “So Sunset, whaddya want?”
“I think I’ll go with a cup of coffee and a chocolate donut,” she answered. “What about you?”
“You drink coffee?” he asked, raising his eyebrow.
“Yeah, I drink it all the time. Especially when my dad and I get on a roll working on an invention,” Sunset explained.
“You're nuts,” he joked, getting in line.
“Maybe a little,” she admitted with a giggle. “I mean, I was raised by two crazy people.”
“Nothing's crazier than my dad,” Grey argued, “Trust me.”
“My dad is currently trying to build a robot,” Sunset challenged with a grin.
“A robot?” he shot back with an incredulous look.
“I’m dead serious,” she said, holding a hand up. “I’ve even seen the plans.”
“Okay, that's totally got mine beat,” he conceded with a bow.
“Yeah, lucky for me my dad’s the good crazy. He’s helped me play a lot of awesome games that never make it stateside.” Sunset smiled.
“Lucky girl.” He grinned. “A gamer and a genius, great combo.”
“Are you into games too?” Sunset asked.
“Guilty as charged.”
“Then I should show you my gaming setup some time,” she offered.
“I'd like that.” He smiled. “We could nerd out together.”
“Nice, so what are you studying, Grey?” she asked.
“Me? I'm trying to get into physics. What about you?”
“Astrophysics,” she replied. “Seems we can nerd out over something else together.”
“Fun times.” He stepped up to the counter, placing their orders.
“Was that sarcasm, Mr. Ghost?” Sunset asked with a smirk as she took her coffee and donut.
“What? No way.” He waved her off, walking over to an empty table. He had gotten himself some hot chocolate and an eclair.
“Alright, so since you’re into games, what’s your favorite one?” Sunset questioned, putting cream and sugar in her coffee.
“What, don't believe my cred?” He asked, sipping at his drink.
“Nope, just want to make sure you’re worthy of being in the presence of the teen prodigy,” she joked, sipping her own.
“Well, if it’s that important to you, my favorite game of all time is Final Fantasy 9.”
“I don’t know if this friendship will work out.” Sunset sighed. “Mine’s Final Fantasy 6.”
“I know, you don’t even like 3D games,” he teased. “You’re such a luddite.”
“Hold on, I like plenty of 3D games,” Sunset protested with a pout. “6 just happens to be the best Final Fantasy.”
“Uh huh, sure ya do, and I'm king of the campus.”
“Better polish your crown because I love RE4,” she retorted with a smirk.
“I bet you're one of those people who suck at tank controls,” Grey retorted.
“Oh, you did not just say that.” Sunset narrowed her eyes at him. “No one knocks my abilities, not even as a joke.”
“Gonna do something about it, shorty?” he challenged, taking a bite out of his eclair.
“Alright, gaming contest back in my room?” she retorted with a smirk. “Unless of course you can’t put your money where your mouth is.”
“Like I'm gonna be scared of an uppity junior high kid. You’re on.”
“You’re gonna need that confidence,” Sunset said, quickly finishing her donut. “But what you’ll really need is skill.” She got up and started walking, motioning with a finger for him to follow. Grey chuckled, rising out of his seat and following after her. Sunset led him back to her room and showed off the game collection she brought with her. “Alright, since I feel like being nice, I’ll let you pick the game.”
“You got a pretty good selection here.” Grey nodded, looking over the cases. “Maybe you’re not such a luddite.”
“I told you, my top ten of games, while mostly containing RPG’s, does have a mix of 2D and 3D games,” she replied, taking a seat and kicking off her shoes.
“How's about... Soul Calibur?”
“Ooh, a good choice.” Sunset smiled. “Unlucky for you though, my Yoshimitsu game is top notch.”
“Like I’m scared.” he sat down next to her, passing her the game case.
“You will be,” she replied in an impression of Yoda as she set the game up. “You will be.” He rolled his eyes, grabbing a controller. She grabbed her own and went to the character select screen. She picked Yoshimitsu. He picked Talim. “Huh, I didn’t peg you for a Talim guy.”
“Were you expecting me to pick Ivy? Or wait, Nightmare perhaps?”
“Nope, Voldo,” she teased, nudging him.
“No way, he’s too weird for me.” Grey shook his head.
“Coulda fooled me,” she teased again, giggling.
“I'm gonna knock your ass back to high school,” he taunted.
“Good luck with that,” she replied, starting the first round. They both put their all into it, with Grey winning the first found. “Huh, so you’re not just all talk,” she said, grinning up at him.
“I could say the same to you.” He smirked.
“I never say something that I can’t back up,” she replied, her grin growing.
“Lets see how true that is ya?”
“You’re on!” She beamed and started the next round. The game was even fiercer this time around, and Sunset narrowly won.
“You're pretty good,” Grey complimented.
“I’ve had a lot of practice,” she replied. “Wanna make this next round interesting with a wager?”
“What kinda wager?” He asked, his interest piqued.
“Well, for starters, this round will be winner takes all,” she answered. “And, the winner can make the loser do one thing, no matter how embarrassing. You in, or are you scared of a little girl?”
“I already told you I wasn't scared of you.” He rolled his eyes. “Fine, I accept your challenge.”
“Alright then.” Sunset started the third and final round. The two fought on, neither of them letting up. The match was close, both of them furrowing their brows in utter concentration. Eventually, Grey landed a lucky combo and knocked Sunset out of the ring.
“Looks like I win, shorty,” Grey said rather smugly.
“You got lucky with that cheap ring-out,” Sunset grumbled. “But a win’s a win, so what do I have to do?”
“Simple, be my cheer squad.” He smirked. “I think I can scrounge up a uniform that’d fit you.”
“And what exactly would being your cheer squad entail?” Sunset asked cautiously.
“I dunno, cheering behind me while I’m walking around campus for an afternoon or something?” He frowned, scratching his cheek.
“Okay, one of my best friends is, or I guess was, a cheerleader, so I think I can repeat some of her moves,” Sunset said with a nod.
“I didn't expect you to be such a good sport,” he admitted with a soft smile.
“Yeah, I might like to talk smack, but I know how to lose with grace. I mean, games are supposed to be fun, right?”
“Admit it, you thought I was gonna get weird on you, didn't you?” he asked, poking her arm.
She shook her head. “Nah, you don’t seem like that kind of guy. I mean, you haven’t tried anything weird despite us being alone in my room.”
“You can thank my mom.” Grey leaned back a little. “She made sure I wasn't an idiot.”
“I’ll be sure to thank her if I meet her,” she replied with a smile. “So, wanna play a different game?”
“Sure, though, how about we hold off on the wagers?” He asked, sitting back up.
“Ugh, take all the fun out of it why don’t you?” she teased as she looked through her collection.
“It's my way to spare you from any more humiliation,” he offered with a grin.
“Oh now you’ve earned yourself a beatdown, mister.” Sunset glared at him and pulled out a game. “Just for that, I’m breaking out my sister’s favorite, Puzzle Fighter.”
“I’ll beat you in that too.” He grinned, cracking his knuckles.
“I’d love to see you try,” she retorted, putting the game in.
“Ready?” Grey asked as he stood at Sunset's door, smirking at her.
“Did you have to get the shortest skirt on the planet?” Sunset blushed, holding her pom poms in the front and back of the skirt.
“It's the only thing I could find. That's why I gave you those shorts.” He gave her a flat look. “Please tell me you're wearing the shorts.”
She didn’t say anything, ducked back into her room and came back out wearing the black, tight shorts.
“...why weren't you wearing those to begin with...?”
“Can we stop with the interrogation so I can uphold my end of the bet?” she asked, shaking her pom poms slightly.
“Yes, yes.” He nodded. “Let the cheer squad begin.” He smirked, starting to walk away.
“I hope you enjoy this while it lasts, jerk,” Sunset said, following after him and shaking her pom poms. “Because next time it’s your ass in this get up.”
“I love the curses, just makes you seem more like a kid,” he teased, making his way to the main campus.
“It’s kinda scary how much you enjoy my discomfort,” she replied, starting a cheer.
“What? Come on, you know that's not true.” He looked back at her, frowning.
“Uh huh.” She rolled her eyes and went into another cheer, her cheeks coloring as she felt numerous eyes on her. Grey paused, looking at her.
“If you don't want to do this Sunset, you don't have to.”
“I agreed to the bet, so I’m gonna do this,” she replied, giving him a firm look.
“You're a tough kid, Sunny.” He smiled, continuing his walk.
“I have to be after everything I’ve been through,” she told him, doing another cheer. He waved at the gawkers, heading to his first class. “So, why did you want me to be your cheer squad?” she asked, doing a cartwheel.
“It was the first thing I came up with.” He shrugged, glancing back at her.
“The first thing thing that popped in your head was to put me in a revealing outfit?” she teased.
“You are pretty cute,” he offered. Sunset’s blush deepened, clearly caught off-guard by the comment.
“For a kid, right?” she asked, not looking at him.
“I mean... you're only like... three years younger than me?” he paused. “If I were a little younger or you were a little older, I’d have have asked you out already.” Sunset’s cheering faltered, her entire face matching the red in her hair.
“W-well, 17 is the age of consent,” she stated. “And I’m not far from being that age. What would you do then?”
“I think I'd ask you out,” he answered frankly. Sunset bit her lip, looking at him.
“And I think I might say yes if you did,” she said after a brief moment.
“Really?” he asked, sounding genuinely surprised.
“I mean, we do have a lot of fun together,” she said. “And you’re not half bad looking either.”
“Thanks...” he blushed with her, giving her a smile
“You’re welcome.” She returned his smile, and began another cheer, this one much more energetic than the others. He watched her for a moment before resuming his walk, a small spring to his step.
Sunset shut the door to her room and hopped onto her bed. She grabbed her phone and started tapping out a message.
“Sonata, I think I found a guy I really like!”
”Really? Give me the deets!”
”His name is Grey Ghost and he’s a ton of fun to be around. He likes a lot of the same stuff I do, he’s smart, and super cute!”
”Got a pic?” Sunset smiled and sent a pic she had taken with her phone.
”Whaddaya think?”
”I think that's the son of Crystal Prep’s last Principal. You know, the one that got in trouble?”
”So that’s what he meant when he said his dad was crazy. Do you think I should talk to him about this?”
”I mean, he didn't do anything wrong himself. Does it bother you he didn't tell you?”
”Not really. I mean, would you want to talk about your dad feeding steroids to kids?”
”Alright then. Now, gimme all the juicy deets gurl!”
”I met him on the first day when he literally bumped into me. I made him buy me a cup of coffee and a donut for that and we ended up going back to my room to play video games. I made a wager and lost to him and I ended up having to be his cheer squad today.”
”Oh Faust, did you have a uniform?”
”Pom poms and everything. Hold on, I’ll send you a pic.” Sunset got up and went to her bathroom to take a picture of her in the uniform. She then sent it to her friend.
”Wow, that's a short skirt.”
”He said that was the only one he could find in my size. Though I don’t buy it.”
”Well, that is an old Crystal Prep uniform. We played them a few times in the state championship.”
”Makes sense I guess. Anyway, do I look good in it?”
”Gurl you look great. Bet you had all the boys staring.
”Thanks, so how are things on your end?”
”Good, I got that teacher’s aid position!”
”I’m so happy for you, Sonny! I bet you’re gonna get so many love letters from the students.
”Thanks! I'm gonna be the best teacher ever!”
”I know you will! How are you and Alias doing by the way?”
”I think he might propose soon~”
“That sounds so great! Call me as soon as he does!”
”You got it Sunny.”
Sunset laid down on her bed and let out a happy hum. “I think things couldn’t be going any better right about now.” She peered into her mirror, smirking. “I totally look hot in this thing. And when I turn seventeen, Grey might just get to see what’s underneath it.”
She giggled to herself, shaking her head. “I got all the time in the world.”
Children of the Star-Another Sunset
Sunset walked beside Grey, the two of them having what most would consider a pointless argument. “You’re crazy, Grey, MGS3 is way better than 2.” She huffed.
“Snake Eater’s cover system never worked right,” he argued, “You always get seen, no matter how high it is.”
“Which is why there’s so many other ways to tackle stealth,” she retorted. “Plus, Snake Eater’s bosses are amazing.”
“Yeah, like that one where the guy dies of old age. Totally awesome.”
“See, you even agree with me,” she said, giving him a playful shove. “Though I will admit that the naked Raiden portion of two is pretty fun.” She wiggled her eyebrows at him.
“I bet I know which part of the screen you were staring at.” He grinned.
“If you were thinking his ass, then you’d be right,” she admitted with a grin of her own.
“What has the world come to? Hormones are affecting younger and younger kids,” Grey lamented, sagging his shoulders in mock defeat.
“Yes, it truly is a sad world when an eight year old like me is attracted to the bare ass of blonde secret agents from a video game,” she added, sagging her shoulders and hanging her head.
“It's up to me, the brave eleven year old to keep your mind pure!” he declared, pulling her close protectively.
“My hero!” she mock swooned, putting a hand to her forehead. They held their position before bursting into laughter like a pair of crazy people. “I think there’s something wrong with us,” she said, looking up at him with a grin.
“Nah, there's something wrong with everyone.” He grinned. “Anyway, you got anything special planned for your B-day?”
“The family might be coming up,” she said. “Why, you want to do something?” She smirked at him.
“I dunno, how old are you turning again?” He teased, patting her head.
“Nine, remember?” She rolled her eyes at him. “I bet you already have a present for me hidden in your room.”
“Maybe I do, maybe I don't.” He shrugged. “I'm not sure you’re old enough for it “
“You’re such a jerk.” She laughed and gave him a playful shove. “Why am I friends with you again?”
“Because I got that older kid charm.” He smirked, ruffling her hair. “You should be grateful Senpai noticed you.”
“Is that how you want me to address you? Grey-senpai?”
“‘Grey-Senpai’.” He rubbed his chin. “I like the sound of that.”
“You are such a nerd, Grey-Senpai.” She let out an overdramatic sigh, though she had a large smile on her face.
“So are you,” he replied, poking her cheek.
“Yeah, but at least I’m cute,” she shot back with a smirk.
“Come talk to me when you're out of that training bra.”
“You dick!” She glared at him. “This is so not a training bra!”
“It's not?” He glanced at her chest before looking into her eyes. “Coulda fooled me.”
“Okay, just for that, you’re buying me a snack.” She stuck her nose up in the air. “And I’m getting the most expensive thing on the menu.”
“Alright little Sunny, just don't throw a tantrum in the store,” he teased further, snickering a little.
“Keep it up and I’m kicking you right in Ghost Jr’s face,” she warned with a hard look.
“Ouch, when did you get so violent?” he asked, cringing a little.
“Maybe I’ve always been this violent?” she returned with a smirk. “And you’re just now seeing the real me.”
“I befriended a little monster, just my luck.” He sighed, walking into the cafe. He placed their orders, taking their regular table. “But seriously Sunny, happy birthday.”
“Thanks Grey, it’s my first birthday away from my family in a while,” she said. “So it’s nice to have a good friend to spend it with.”
“How's it feel, finally being old enough to drive?” he asked, leaning back in his chair.
“It’s pretty cool,” she said. “It’ll take a little work to get that license. But until then, I’ll just keep bumming rides from you,” she replied with a smile.
“Just keep chipping in for gas and we’re all good,” he assured with a thumbs up.
“I bet there’s something you’d rather get than gas money from me,” she teased with a wink as their order was placed on the table.
“Not while you're jailbait,” he stated firmly, taking a bite of his bagel.
“Only one more year if you don’t find someone else before that,” she reminded with a smile.
“Someone more perfect than you? No way,” Grey scoffed. “I'm not so sex starved I can't wait a year.”
“That was so sweet.” Sunset smiled at him. “I’ll be sure to make the wait worth it.”
“Hey, don't go out of the way for me.“ He smiled back. “I like you for more than just that you know.“
“Aren’t people supposed to go out of the way for the people they care about?”
“That's not what I meant and you know it.”
“Grey, due to me skipping grades, I’ve never had a relationship before. Hell, I’ve never even kissed a guy before. So forgive me if I’m a little repressed,” she said with a frown.
“Hey.” He reached out, taking her hand. “I just don't want you to feel like you can't change your mind.”
“As if I’d want to change my mind for you,” she replied, squeezing his hand. He squeezed back, giving her hand a kiss. “Ugh, I hate being younger than you,” she groaned. “It makes this so much more complicated than it should be.”
“It just gives you time to outgrow the training bra,” he teased, grinning mischievously.
“Keep that up and I’ll date someone else when I turn seventeen,” she deadpanned.
“Okay, okay, I'll leave out the puberty jokes,” he promised, smiling sheepishly at her.
“That’s a good senpai.” She smiled and patted his cheek.
“...I’d respond in kind but that's the only honorific I know.”
“So it seems I finally stumped your teasing.” She giggled.
“It appears so.” He took another bite of his bagel. “I'll get more ammunition though.”
“I look forward to it,” she replied. “Faust forbid we have a conversation where we’re not teasing each other mercilessly.”
“See? We’re perfect for each other.” He grinned. “I doubt either of us could do better.”
“I suppose not, though I might try.” She smirked at him and winked.
“I doubt that little miss push-up bra.”
“I’m not wearing a push-up bra,” she growled.
“Oh yeah? Then I guess you just stuff em’ with tissue then.”
“I bet you pad the front of your pants,” she retorted with a glare.
“I think you wear those pants with the ass pads.”
“I bet you sharpie a six pack onto yourself.”
“I bet you wear platform shoes to hide that you really belong in elementary school.”
“I bet you wear makeup to hide a ton of zits.”
“I bet you're as flat as a pancake.”
“I bet you have a micro-penis.”
They got a few odd looks, but that didn't deter their little insult game.
“I bet you're just an opposite gendered clone.”
“I bet you’re an escaped lab experiment,” she shot back.
“i bet you're one of the Garbage Pail Kids “
“I bet you’re one of the bullies from the Garbage Pail Kids movie.”
“I bet you escaped from the State Home for the Ugly.”
“I bet you were raised there.”
“I bet they grew you from garbage.”
“I bet you were a dumpster baby.”
“You know, people are starting to stare,” he commented, gesturing with his head.
“Has that ever stopped us from doing something stupid?” she asked with a chuckle.
“Nah. That's why we’re the perfect couple.” He winked, finishing off his bagel.
“Except we’re not a couple,” she pointed out. “Not yet anyway.”
“We’re close enough. It’s semantics at this point.”
“You make a good point, but couples do more than just jokingly insult each other.”
“And we will, just gotta wait a few more months,” he assured her, sneaking a bite of her food.
“Ugh, you’re lucky I like you so much or else I’d whack you for stealing my food.” She then stole a sip of his hot chocolate.
“Back on topic, when we do start dating, your dad isn't going to beat me up side the head is he?”
“Grey. my dad’s not the kind of guy to beat up someone,” Sunset assured him.
“You sure about that?” He questioned her, leaning in close.
“Of course,” she reaffirmed. “Now, using a gadget of his on you, that’s a different story.”
“I'll try to avoid that.” He nodded. “If your family doesn't come out, you wanna do something?”
“Do you even have to ask at this point?” she asked with a smile.
“Got anything in mind? It’s all on me babe.” He winked cockily.
“Hmm, do you wanna go into town and catch a movie or something?” she asked. “After you give me my present.” She grinned and poked him in the nose.
“Oi, greedy little minx are we?”
“Is it so wrong to be excited to see what you got me?” She gave him a puppy dog look.
“Gah, gotta pull out those on me don't you?” he asked, covering his eyes.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She started to make her lip quiver.
“Will you stop that?” he asked, keeping his eyes covered.
“Fine, I guess I can go easy on you, Grey-Senpai~” she chimed, quickly finishing her food. He finished his drink, standing up.
“Shall we, m’lady?” he asked, offering her his arm.
“We shall, Sir Ghost.” She linked arms with him, walking out of the cafe at his side. He smiled, leading her to their favorite hangout spot, an old tree off in the far corner of the campus. “Is this where you stashed my gift?” she asked, taking a seat under the tree.
“Think you can find it?” he asked, sitting next to her.
“And what kind of package should I be looking for?” she questioned, looking at him with a grin.
“You'll know it when you see it.” She rolled her eyes and got up, starting to look around the tree for the present. She reached into the knothole of the old tree, feeling wrapping paper. She pulled it out, smiling at him.
“Had to go with the cliche, didn’t you?”
“It's a good one,” he insisted.
“You’re so lucky that some idiot didn’t come and take it,” she replied, starting to open the present. He leaned in, hoping to gauge her reaction. She let out a gasp, gently pulling out a necklace. “Grey, it’s beautiful.”
“It was my mom’s,” he explained, taking it from her and unclasping it. “She gave it to me when my parents got divorced.”
“I can’t accept something like that.” She shook her head vigorously.
“Hey.” He reached over, clasping it around her neck. “You're special to me and you deserve something special.” Sunset groaned.
“Ugh, and this is why being underage sucks. You do something this unbelievably sweet and I can’t even show you my appreciation!” She pouted down at the necklace.
“It looks good on you.” He grinned. The necklace was purple, with a light blue crescent moon on it.
“Yeah, I guess it does.” She touched the necklace gently. “I love it, I’ll wear it every day.”
“You ever heard of Nightmare Moon?” he asked, pulling her into his lap.
“I think so, but refresh my memory,” she said, her brow furrowing in concentration.
“Famous heavy metal star around... twenty five years ago.”
“Oh wow!” Sunset gasped. “I remember her now. My mom loved her! She used to play her stuff around the house all the time when I was little.”
“That's my mom.” Grey beamed. “You’d never know, looking at her now.”
“That’s so cool,” Sunset replied. “Though my dad’s kinda a celebrity too.”
“Yeah but I bet having you didn't make him settle down.” He leaned against the tree, wrapping his arms around her.
“My dad didn’t even know I existed until I was eight,” she replied. “I was an in vitro baby.”
“See? You're totally a clone.” He smirked.
“And you were a broken condom baby,” she shot back.
“That wouldn’t surprise me.” He laid his head on top of hers. “Happy birthday, Sunny.”
“Thank you Grey,” she replied, leaning into his arms. “I don’t know what I did to deserve you in my life.”
“I ask myself that every day.”
“Guess the two of us just got lucky,” she replied with a chuckle.
“Super lucky.” He nodded, giving her a squeeze.
“And now I have to find a way to top this present when your birthday comes around,” she said.
“You can try, push-up, but I don't think you can.”
“Oh, I’ll succeed, micro penis,” she retorted with a smirk.
“We’ll see.”
“I’ll do it,” she assured. “But, instead of getting into another teasing match, can we just talk?”
“About what?”
“I dunno,” she said. “Do you think we’ll still be like this years down the road?”
“I hope so. I don't see myself falling for anyone else.”
“Same here.” She took hold of his hand. “The only other people I have this much fun with are my family.” He smiled, squeezing her hand. “You know, if my family does come up today, you could join us,” she offered, looking up at him.
“You sure they’ll accept me?”
“Of course they would,” she replied. “They’d love you.”
“Even if we're kinda sorta dating?” He looked into her eyes.
“I think the fact that you’ve never made an untoward move on me will net you a lot of respect,” she replied. “The most you’ve ever done is hold me like this.”
“Good to know.” He smiled, kissing the top of her head. Her smile matched his.
“I bet you’d break out in a sweat and become a stuttering mess if you did join us,” she teased.
“I hope we’re not interrupting something,” a familiar voice said from behind them.
They both turned, seeing the Star family standing behind them.
“Umm… hi guys.” She smiled weakly and waved at them. “I thought you would’ve called or texted me when you got here.”
“We wanted to surprise you,” June explained. “Now, who's your friend?”
“Well, this is Grey Ghost,” Sunset said, slowly pulling away from him. “I’ve told you about him in my messages.”
“Oh?” June asked, tilting her head.
“Yeah, he’s the friend I met on the first day,” Sunset explained.
“Are you sure you’re just friends?” June asked, narrowing her eyes at the poor man.
“Well…” Sunset paused, wracking her brain for an explanation.
“Yes?” June asked, crossing her arms.
“I mean we like each other,” she admitted. “But we haven’t done anything other than innocent stuff like holding hands and stuff.”
“Oh relax June,” Star spoke up, “I trust Sunny to make good decisions.”
“Wow, Dad,” Sunset said with a smile. “Thanks for being so understanding.”
“I told you before, I trust you.” Star smiled, walking over and extending his hand. “I’m Dr. Star Dust, a pleasure to meet you.”
“I-I’m Grey Ghost,” Grey replied, shaking the other man’s hand. “The pleasure’s all mine, sir.”
“This is my lovely wife June Bug, my son Hercules Nebula and my youngest daughter Moon Dancer.”
“I-it’s nice to meet you all too,” Grey said, looking at the others. “Sunny’s said a lot of good things about you all.”
“Likewise.” Star smiled, sitting down with them. “Sunny told me that you’re a physics student, are you enjoying your classes?”
“I love ‘em. What makes ‘em better is sharing them with Sunny.”
“That’s good to hear,” Star replied. “You’ll fit in just fine with us. I might have to show you my workshop back home.”
“Really?” Grey blinked. “I honestly thought you'd be rather P.O.ed.”
“I know my daughter rather well.” Star chuckled. “And if she likes you then there’s a good reason for it. And I can tell you wouldn’t try anything to hurt her.”
“Star is a lot more trusting than I am.” June sat down, looking between the two love birds.
“Mom, Grey’s a great guy,” Sunset protested. “Try not to give him the third degree.”
“I make no promises, Sunset.”
“Uh oh, she’s not using the nickname,” Sunset whispered to Grey. “Good luck.”
“It's nice to meet you ma’am.” Grey smiled, holding his hand out to June The older woman shook his hand and gave him a stern look.
“What are your intentions with my daughter?” June asked, studying him closely.
“Uh... wait until next year?” he said carefully.
“Oh, and what do you plan on doing then?” June gripped his hand hard, her nails digging into his skin.
“Whatever Sunset is comfortable with.” He winced but didn't look away.
“Hmm, I suppose that’ll do for now.” June released his hand, relaxing slightly. He let out a sigh of relief, rubbing his hand.
“Be a man, don’t rub it,” Sunset joked.
“Easy for you to say.”
“Hey, I’ve dealt with worse than Mom’s interrogation,” Sunset retorted.
“You two already sound married,” Moon Dancer teased.
“Keep it up and Lemon will be the Maid of Honor,” Sunset shot back, grabbing Moon and giving her a noogie.
“H-hey!” Moon squirmed, trying to escape her grasp.
“And that’s why you don’t tease your big sister,” Sunset said, letting the younger girl go. “Why do you think Herc gave it up years ago?”
“Yeah, she's really tough.” Herc nodded.
“Really?” Grey asked, looking at Sunset. “She looks like a big softie to me.”
“That's what you think.” Herc shook his head. “She’s really a monster.” Grey hummed in thought for a moment, looking Sunset up and down.
“Well, she did threaten to kick me in the junk not too long ago,” he admitted.
“Yeah, cause you said-” she gazed at her parents and cleared her throat. “Never mind. So... are we doing anything, Dad?”
“We were going to take you to a restaurant and give you your gifts,” Star replied. “Would you like to come with us, Grey?”
“I don't want to impose.” Grey leaned back. “But, I won't say no if it's alright with you guys.”
“Well, it’s my birthday and I want you to come,” Sunset said.
“Then I guess I'm coming.” He smiled, taking her hand.
“Not until she’s seventeen you’re not,” Star muttered.
“And here I thought I was playing bad cop,” June commented, rising to her feet.
“Oh you know I couldn’t let that joke slip by,” Star said, taking his wife’s hand.
“Dear... I think he meant coming with us, not... that.”
“Hence why it was a joke, dear.” Star rolled his eyes. She frowned, poking his cheek.
“Keep that up and we’ll stop trying for another kid.”
“...Yes ma’am.” Star hung his head, his glasses sliding down his nose.
“Wait… what was that?” Sunset blinked owlishly.
“Another star will be gracing the sky soon.” June winked, pulling Star close.
“That’s great!” Sunset beamed. “Are you hoping for a boy or girl this time, Mom?”
“I think a girl this time.” June lead them to the car, though she had Moon sit between the lovebirds.
“So another little sister?” Sunset questioned with a smile. “Do you have any ideas for a name?”
“Now that is a good question.” June pursed her lips. “Is was your father's idea to name Herc after our sides of the family.”
“And he wound up with an awesome name,” Sunset chirped, ruffling her brother’s hair. Herc blushed, giving her a hug.
“On the subject of sisters,” Star began, pulling out of the parking lot. “I have some news for you girls.”
“Based on what you said, I’m guessing another girl contacted you and said you were her donor father,” Moon interjected, adjusting her glasses.
“More like her mother did.” Star glanced at June. “Her name is Starlight Glimmer and she’s only a year younger than you, Sunny.”
“That’s great news!” Sunset beamed. “Can I meet her on my next day off?”
“Well...” Star frowned, not sure what to say.
“You can try. Apparently, she's under mental evaluation,” June elaborated.
“Wh-what’s wrong, why is she under evaluation?” Sunset asked, her smile falling.
“Apparently, she ran away as a little girl because her friend moved away,” Star spoke, letting out a long sigh. “At some point, she started a cult, and I think you can imagine how that went.”
“Hold on… a teenager started a cult?” Grey asked, scratching his head.
“Yes, just like a heavy metal singer settled down and became a vice principal,” Star responded.
“...You know about my mom?” he asked, genuinely surprised.
“Your aunt used to tutor me in Spanish. Luna was a hellraiser in high school.”
“Huh… didn’t see that coming,” Sunset commented, looking between Grey and her father. “But, back on the subject, is she... dangerous?”
“We’re not sure, that’s what the evaluation is for,” June said.
“Is this like the time we went on vacation with aunt Dust Bowl’s family?” Moon asked, looking between June and Star.
“Something like that.” Star sighed. “Sorry for bringing the mood down on your special day, Sunny.”
“No, I'm glad you told me.” Sunset smiled. “I still want to meet her though.”
“Maybe family offering support is just what she needs,” Star said with a smile.
“But, tonight is your night so let's have fun!” June smiled, trying to lighten the mood.
“Yeah, it’s not every day you turn nine.” Grey smirked at Sunset. Sunset burst out laughing, reaching over Moon to sock him in the arm.
“Starlight,” Nurse Red Heart knocked on her patient's door, “Are you awake?”
“If I say no will you leave?” came the response the nurse had grown accustomed to.
“You have visitors.”
“Fine, send them in, I’m wearing my best jacket after all,” Starlight replied. After a few minutes, a young man and two younger girls walked in.
“Hello Starlight,” the older girl smiled, “I'm Sunset Shimmer and this is my little sister Moon Dancer and my friend Grey Ghost.”
“Hello,” Starlight greeted, sitting up. “So what are you all doing here?”
“We wanted to meet you,” Moon Dancer said, giving her a warm smile.
“And why would you want to meet me?” Starlight asked.
“This may sound weird but, Moon Dancer and I are your sisters,” Sunset explained, looking down at her.
“...You sure you aren’t supposed to be in a rubber room too?” Starlight asked with a flat look.
“I’m serious,” Sunset insisted, “Your mom went to the same clinic our moms did, we have the same father.”
“And where is he then?” Starlight asked. “Why didn’t he show up to tell me this himself?”
“Dad’s coming later today. Our little brother has a soccer game today, but I promise he’ll be here.”
“Alright, I guess that makes sense,” Starlight replied. “So how did you find me, was it my mom or dad?”
“Your mom called Dad,” Moon Dancer said. “Um... we brought you presents but the doctor said you couldn't have them yet.”
“That’s for the best,” Starlight said. “I doubt you guys would want to see me open a present with my mouth and feet.” She indicated her bound arms.
“Yeah, I noticed.” Sunset moved over, sitting next to her. “How are you feeling?”
“At first I was angry, but ramming into the walls was surprisingly therapeutic,” Starlight answered. “Now, I’m bored most of the time. It’s gotten so bad that I started counting the stitches in the padding of the room.”
“Why did you... you know?”
“Sunburst was my only friend,” Starlight started. “When he moved to go to this impressive school I just felt… Faust, I can’t even explain everything I was feeling. So I ran. At one point I heard this seminar about equality and decided to make my own group dedicated to that. And that blew up in my face spectacularly.”
“That must have hurt.” Sunset reached over, putting a hand on her shoulder.
“It did, and since I’m a minor the police that found me thought it was best that I get my head checked out,” Starlight replied.
“You never know, they might have saved your life,” Sunset offered, giving her a sad smile.
“Maybe you’re right,” Starlight admitted. “Things were pretty crazy at the end there.”
“How crazy?” Grey asked, leaning on the wall.
“I’d rather not say.” Starlight shuddered.
“You know, I’ve been through some bad times too,” Sunset began, “I don't mind sharing my story.”
“Really, like what?” Starlight questioned, looking at her.
“When I was eight, my mom died.” Sunset reached up, grasping her necklace. “My grandmother, she... threw me out on the streets. I spent three months living in a box behind a restaurant, eating out of the garbage.”
“Wow, I guess we’re not so different,” Starlight said. “I’d uh… give you a pat on the shoulder or a hug if I could.”
“You just worry about getting better.” Sunset smiled again. “The doctor said you shouldn't be in here for too much longer, you wanna join Moon and I for a sisters’ day out when you do?”
“That doesn’t sound too bad,” Starlight replied with a small smile. “Our first stop should be to get something to eat. If you think hospital food is bad, just try asylum food.”
“Then it’s a date!” Moon giggled, giving her new sister a hug.
“And I guess I’ll have to be your chauffeur again,” Grey chimed in. “The oldest of you sisters only has a permit.”
“Hey, I’m working on it.” Sunset smiled sheepishly.
“I know, but I couldn’t resist teasing you,” he said with a chuckle.
“You’re so mean.” Sunset pouted.
“If I were mean I wouldn’t agree to give you so many rides,” he pointed out with a smirk.
“Are you two dating?” Starlight asked, glancing between them.
“Kinda,” Grey replied with a shrug. “Though we’re waiting until Sunny here turns seventeen to make it official.”
“Trust me, the wait sucks,” Sunset added.
“The wait’ll be over before you know it,” Grey assured her patting her shoulder. “And then it’s normal dating stuff. Which will most likely be everything we normally do just with a lot more kissing.” Sunset smiled, putting her hand over his.
“Ugh, the two of you are so sweet together it’s gonna make me sick,” Starlight said, making a fake retching noise.
“They gave me cavities,” Moon joked.
“You’re just jealous you don’t have someone yet,” Sunset teased, sticking her tongue out at Moon.
“You tell yourself that, Sunny.”
“It’s okay, you can admit to your jealousy,” Sunset said in an over dramatic tone, putting an arm around Moon. “Your big sis is here for you.”
“I am not jealous!” Moon insisted, squirming in her arms.
“Shh, it’s okay, Moonie,” Sunset whispered, holding her tighter. “You don’t have to hide your feelings from me.”
“Sunny! Lemme go!!!”
“Fine, I’m done teasing you.” Sunset giggled and let her sister go. Moon Dancer straightened her turtle neck, huffing.
“You girls are crazy,” Starlight giggled.
“It runs in the family,” Sunset replied, winking at her.
“Guess I’ll have to make room in here for all of you then.” Starlight giggled again.
“I suppose so.” Sunset laughed, shaking her head.
“You better hope they don’t lock you away,” Grey said. “I’m pretty sure they’d take your necklace away from you before putting the straightjacket on ya.”
“I'd never let them take it.” Sunset frowned, clutching her necklace.
“Wow, that necklace sounds important to you,” Starlight commented.
“Grey gave it to me. I'm not gonna lose it.”
“I’m sorry, I couldn’t hear you over the sound of wedding bells in the distance,” Starlight teased with a smirk.
“Let's not get too far ahead of ourselves.” Grey shook his head, ruffling Sunny’s hair.
“Yeah, we haven’t even kissed yet,” Sunset said with a chuckle. “But, I’ve got a good feeling I’m keeping Grey around. Gotta keep a good chauffeur.” She nudged his side.
“Uh huh, keep telling yourself that,” Grey laughed, flicking her nose.
“Ugh, wasn’t the car ride up enough flirting and teasing for you two?” Moon groaned. “You’re even worse than Dad and Ms. June.”
“Can not stop, will not stop,” Grey replied, winking at her.
“Yeah, we kinda forgot how to talk to each other like normal human beings.” Sunset giggled. “Even our Mazes and Monsters characters tease each other mercilessly, it drives the rest of the group insane.”
“Ugh, my family is a bunch of nerds,” Starlight lamented.
“Yup,” Sunset agreed. “Moon and I have won tons of awards for math competitions and spelling bees.”
“I bet you're really smart too, Starlight,” Moon said, adjusting her glasses.
“I guess,” Starlight tried to shrug, “kinda been a while since I went to school though.”
“Don't worry about it, we’ll tutor you.” Sunset smiled.
“Yeah, Sunny’s a great tutor,” Moon chimed. “My grades went up really quick after she started tutoring me.”
“It's not that big a deal,” Sunset dismissed.
“I dunno, I think you could be a good professor one day,” Grey said. “You’ve helped me out with my homework too.”
“You're gonna make my head big...” Sunset complained with a blush.
“Something on ya has to be,” Grey teased, putting his hand up to chest level with her and making a pinching motion. She pouted, socking him in the arm.
“You brought that on yourself, Grey,” Moon commented, as he rubbed his arm.
“It was too good to pass up.”
“Do you ever get tired of calling me flat?” Sunset asked with a huff. “My breasts are like… average sized.”
“That's what you think.”
“Grey, you are so lucky there are guards and doctors around,” Sunset said with narrowed eyes. He waved her off, never losing his smile.
“They’re always like this, aren’t they?” Starlight asked, giving Moon a flat look.
“Yeah, they act like they’re married already.”
“Faust forbid if they ever breed,” Starlight said with a shiver.
“Hey don't say that, I wanna be an aunt,” Moon scolded.
“To the snarkiest child on the planet?” Starlight questioned with a quirked brow.
“Now you're just being hyperbolic.”
“Nearly every sentence they’ve said to one another has been a jab,” Starlight pointed out.
“Okay, you have a point there,” Moon conceded.
“Yeesh, we’re not even an actual couple yet and they’re talking about us having kids,” Grey said, looking down at Sunset.
“I do wanna be a mom someday.” Sunset smiled.
“I can picture you being like Dad with your kids,” Moon said with a giggle.
“I can say the same about you, Moon,” Sunset retorted.
“Yeah, but your dad’s awesome,” Grey offered.
“I hope he is,” Starlight sighed, letting herself fall onto her back.
“You’re gonna love him,” Sunset assured, sitting next to her. “He’s basically a genius that acts like a giant kid. He’s even making a robot in his spare time.”
“A robot?” Starlight raised her eyebrow.
“Dead serious,” Moon said. “I’ve even seen the beginnings of it.”
“And what does he do for a living?” Starlight questioned.
“He’s an astrophysicist,” Sunset answered with a smile. “He’s the foremost scientist in his field.”
“Huh... wasn't expecting that.”
“Yeah, he’d be more impressive if he acted like he was the foremost scientist in his field.” Sunset giggled.
“No way.” Moon shook her head. “Then he’d be all stuffy and boring.”
“Yeah, you make a good point,” Sunset agreed.
“Now I'm all excited to meet him.” Starlight smiled, looking up at the ceiling.
“He’ll be here soon,” Sunset assured, putting a hand on her shoulder.
“I wonder if dad will buy her a laptop too?” Moon asked, giggling.
“He has to, it’s a tradition at this point,” Sunset with a sagely nod. “And of course Starlight will get the best one.”
“I think I could get used to being part of this family,” Starlight noted with a soft smile.
“We’re glad to have you, sis.” Sunset smiled sincerely.
“Yeah, the more the merrier,” Moon agreed. Sunset helped Starlight sit up, hugging her tightly. Moon joined in on the hug.
“We’ll always be here for you,” Sunset whispered. Starlight leaned into the hug, trying not to tear up.
“Thank you,” Starlight said, rubbing her chin against Sunset’s shoulder in an attempt at an affectionate gesture.
“Don't worry about it.” Sunset gave her a squeeze. “Us Star children gotta stick together.”
“Ooh, Star Children, I like the sound of that,” Moon said.
“It’s just a happy coincidence that we have similar names.” Sunset beamed, breaking the hug.
“Yeah, we do all have celestial objects in our names,” Starlight noted. “I like the name for our little sisterhood too by the way.”
“And Dad used to say it was just me.” Sunset gazed off, her thoughts returning to the time she barely knew her father. “But, you still have to meet Lemon Zest and Herc.”
“Did someone mention me?” Star Dust said, poking his head into the room.
“Oh hey Dad. We were just telling Glim Glam about our little family.” Sunset moved over so Starlight could get a good look at him.
“Wow, my dad looks like a total nerd,” Starlight commented with a smile.
“Not you too.” Star hung his head, walking inside.
“Maybe if you grew a beard, that could help,” Sunset offered.
“I could try.” Star smiled, walking in. “Hello Starlight.”
“Hello… Dad,” she replied hesitantly.
“You don't have to call me that if you don't want to.” He sat down, still smiling. “Whatever makes you comfortable.”
“Well, it’s just a little weird because I already have a dad,” Starlight replied.
“I look forward to meeting him.” Star rubbed his chin. “Thank him for picking up my slack.”
“Yeah, he’s a pretty nice guy,” Starlight said. “He plays the saxophone in a band.”
“Oh? You play anything?”
“I play the saxophone too,” Starlight replied. “I learned from him.”
“Can we hear it?” Herc asked, barging into the room, June close behind him.
“I would, but my hands are kinda tied at the moment,” Starlight replied, tugging on her jacket.
“Oh sorry.” Herc nodded.
“Starlight, this is your little brother Hercules Nebula and my wife, June Bug,” Star introduced.
“It’s nice to meet you two,” Starlight replied. She turned to Herc. “Hi, little bro.”
“Hi Starry.” Herc waved, not at all bothered by her situation.
“So, Sunny said you were at a soccer game, did your team win?” Starlight asked with a smile.
“We did! I got the winning goal!” Herc beamed, showing off the gap in his teeth.
“Yes, lucky for him, Herc got June’s athleticism,” Star said with a chuckle, ruffling his son’s hair. Herc laughed, pushing Star’s hand away.
“That’s great to hear, Herc,” Starlight said. “I hope your team keeps winning.”
“Thanks Starry!”
“Oh no Herc, she’s already got a nickname. Its Glim Glam.” Sunset grinned mischievously.
“Oh, that’s way better!” Herc beamed. “Thanks Glim Glam!”
“Looks like you're fitting in quite well already.” June sat down, pulling Herc into her lap.
“It’s nice to be welcomed so warmly,” Starlight said, looking around the room.
“That's just the Dust family way.” Star pulled as much of his family as he could into a hug.
“Except Aunt Dust Bowl.” Moon cringed. “They aren't so warm.”
“She’s still a good person, and family,” Star stated.
“Barring that Tiara brat...” June grumbled under her breath.
“Okay… I’ll give you that one,” Star conceded.
“And her mother. Faust, I want to slap her upside the head.” June took in a deep breath, hugging Herc close.
“If you ask me, the parents are more to blame for Diamond’s behavior than anything,” Star commented. “Maybe a summer spent with us would help her out?”
“If you can get her away from that cow.” June sighed. “But, I wouldn’t mind trying a summer with her.” She moved her gaze to Starlight. “Unfortunately, I doubt you’ll be well received by them.”
“I think I wouldn’t care about how I was received by them,” Starlight replied with a frown.
“I'm just letting you know, Dear. You can't imagine how insufferable those people are.”
“Thanks, Ms. June,” Starlight said. “I’ll be sure to put on my best happy face if I ever meet them.”
“Actually Starlight, our family reunion is coming up in a few weeks, why don't you and your parents drop by?”
“If this evaluation goes well, sure,” Starlight agreed.
“I know the family… minus those four, will love you Starlight,” Star told her with a large grin. Starlight turned away, trying to hide the tears in her eyes.
Sunset sat in the car with Grey driving as some music played in the background. “Thanks for driving me to my family’s reunion,” she said, smiling at him.
“Don’t worry about it.” He smiled back. “I wasn't doing anything today anyway.”
“And besides, you’re gonna be part of the family someday.” Sunset giggled.
“Thinking about keeping me?”
“I’ve thought about getting rid of you too,” she teased. “But I suppose you’re cute enough to keep.”
“I see how it is.” He pulled up to her destination, slowing to a stop. “I’ll be rocking around in town, you let me know when you're ready to head back.”
“There’s a place that sells comics and tabletop gaming figures in town,” she told him. “You might like it there.”
“I think I'll check it out.” He smiled. “Try to have fun okay?”
“I will, and text me if you find a ranger figure,” she said, giving him a quick hug as she unbuckled herself.
“You got it, Sunny.” She got out of the car and waved as he pulled away. She then walked toward the site of the reunion. Hearing the multitude of familiar voices, she picked up her pace. Eventually, she saw her family milling about in several groups. “Hi everybody!” she called out, waving.
“Sunny!” Herc rushed over, nearly knocking her over as he ran into her.
“Hey little bro,” Sunset greeted, hugging him and smiling. “Having fun so far?”
“Yeah! Glim Glam's dad is really funny!” Herc tugged on her sleeve, leading her over. She smiled as she saw her father and a larger man laughing uproariously together.
“Hi guys,” Sunset cut in.
“I was wondering when you’d get here.” Star smiled, pulling Sunset into a hug. “Theseus, this is my oldest, Sunset Shimmer. Sunny, this is Theseus, Starlight’s adoptive father.”
“It’s nice to meet you, sir,” Sunset said, holding her hand out.
“Nice to meet you too Sunset.” Theseus gave her a kind smile, giving her a firm handshake.
“Sorry I’m late guys, traffic was brutal,” Sunset said, pulling her hand away from Theseus.
“Don't worry about it,” Star assured her, planting a kiss on her head.
“So, have I missed anything good?” Sunset asked, looking between her family.
“Waltz and Starlight got into a dance off.” Star grinned, gesturing to the gazebo.
“I’m guessing Waltz won that one,” Sunset said with a giggle.
“Why don’t you go see? Besides, Aunt Dust Bowl will be here soon.”
“You got it.” Sunset walked over to the gazebo and saw the contest was still underway.
“Come on! You can do it Glim Glam!” Moon cheered, watching from her perch on the railing.
“Wow, so you’ve picked a favorite sister,” Sunset teased, sitting next to Moon.
“Waltz doesn't need me to cheer for her. Glim Glam though.” Moon gestured to the contestants. Starlight was huffing and puffing as she tried to keep up with Waltz’s moves. Waltz on the other hand, while covered in a thin layer of sweat, was breathing fine and moving effortlessly.
“Woo! Go for it Glim Glam!” Sunset cheered.
“Alright... I give up...” Starlight panted, collapsing against the railing.
“Ya know, you don’t move that bad for a novice,” Waltz commented, wiping the sweat off her brow. “I bet my mom and I could teach you if you’re interested.”
“Thriller is a great teacher,” Sunset added, “She helped me get ready for prom.’
“Yeah, before she taught you you flopped around like a fish in your dress,” Moon teased with a giggle.
“Hey, I never needed to dance before.” Sunset pouted, crossing her arms.
“It’s fine, Sunny,” Waltz assured. “Not everyone’s a natural at dancing. Besides, you’re at least good at slow dancing now, which you’ll need when you and Grey become official.” She nudged Sunset in the side. Sunset rolled her eyes, nudging her back.
“Why does everyone have to comment about Grey and I?” Sunset questioned with a huff.
“Because it’s fun to tease you,” Moon joked, hugging her.
“You’re still just jealous that I’ve got Grey and you still haven’t found a guy,” Sunset teased, hugging Moon back.
“I dunno, maybe she just doesn't like guys?” Waltz asked, putting her hand on Moon’s head.
“Waltz, I’m not a lesbian,” Moon deadpanned. “Thanks for trying to tease me about my sexuality though. Classy move.”
“I'd love you no matter who you like, sis.” Waltz grabbed Moon, giving her a patented twirl hug.
“Same here,” Sunset said with a smile.
“Ditto,” Starlight agreed, giving a shaky thumbs up as she caught her breath.
“I'm not making fun of you, Moon.” Waltz squeezed her sister close. “I'd never joke around about something like that.”
“Alright,” Moon replied with a soft smile. “Thanks, but I’m not going to be bringing home any girlfriends.”
“Is that why Lemon told me you were staring at Sugar’s butt?”
“She had sat in something and I told her about it,” Moon replied with a roll of her eyes. “Funny how Lemon left that detail out.”
“Okay, enough messing with Moon.” Watlz gave her one last squeeze before letting go. “I think the best thing to do now is prepare Starlight for the Riches.”
“I’ve been warned about them before,” Starlight said. “But I’ll take whatever advice you can give.”
“Spoiled’s gonna treat you with so much contempt it’ll hurt.”
“You shouldn’t worry about that though, that’s how she treats everyone,” Sunset assured. “Even her own daughter, it’s kinda scary.”
“Bitch made Moon cry,” Waltz growled.
“Oh, Dad and Thriller gave Spoiled a piece of their mind that day,” Sunset said. “I’ve never seen them that angry before.”
“What happened?” Starlight asked, looking between them.
“They just went off on her,” Waltz explained. “When one wasn’t shouting the other was. It was beautiful and scary all at the same time.”
“No, I meant how’d she make Moon cry?”
“She started making snide comments about her eyebrows and her turtleneck,” Waltz growled. “As if that bitch has any room to make comments about how other people look.”
“She um... also made a lot of comments about...” Moon tapped her fingers together. “Inferior stock...”
“...Why is she invited to these gatherings again?” Starlight asked with a deep frown.
“Because she’s family.” Sunset sighed. “Though, with how Diamond Tiara's grades are slipping, they might dump her on Mom and Dad.”
“Good, hopefully Dad can teach Diamond how to act like a normal decent human being,” Sunset said with a sigh.
“Speak of the devil.” Waltz sighed, watching as a limousine pulled into the parking lot. The Riches’ butler opened the door for the family, the three members of the family stepping out. Diamond and Filthy wore smug smirks on their faces while Spoiled’s nose was upturned as always.
“Ugh, It’s like they suck all the fun out of the area,” Starlight commented with a groan.
“Aunt Dust Bowl married Filthy’s father, Notably Rich,” Sunset explained. “They’re pretty nice people. Those two though, they’re terrible.”
“Yeesh, I can feel the smugness from here,” Starlight said. “Forgive me if I try to avoid them for the rest of the day.”
“I don't blame you.” Sunset gave a weak smile. Another car pulled up, this one rather high end. “Oh! That's Aunt Dust Bowl!” An older man in an expensive yet casual set of clothes stepped out of the driver’s seat, followed closely by a woman dressed in a similar way. She had brown hair done up in a bun and deep brown eyes. She scanned the reunion until her eyes locked on Star.
“Little brother! How are you?!” Dust Bowl greeted with a large smile.
“As good as always B.” Star moved over, pulling his sister into a hug. “Has Notably spoiled you rotten yet?”
“Oh, he’s trying, but I’m still the same as ever,” Dust Bowl replied with a laugh. “I even smoke him in golf now.”
“How have you been, Notably?” Star asked, glancing over at his brother-in-law.
“Every day is a treat with Dusty at my side,” Notably replied, putting an arm around his wife. “Our charity has been getting a lot of traction lately.”
“I'm glad.” Star smiled. “You know, we recently got a new addition to my family.”
“Yes, you mentioned that in our last phone call.” Dust Bowl nodded. “I told you donating to that clinic would lead to a lot of surprises.” She poked her little brother in the chest with a smirk.
“And I'm glad. I have very wonderful children.” Star rubbed his chest. “Starlight, would you mind coming over here please?” Starlight, Sunset and Moon walked over.
“Hello, it’s nice to meet you,” Starlight said, a weak smile on her face. “I’ve heard about you from Sunset and Moon.”
“It's nice to meet you too, Starlight.” Dust Bowl smiled. “I’m glad you’re doing well.”
“I’ve had the support of my family,” Starlight replied, indicating her parents and her sisters. “So it’s been easy to do well.”
“Still.” Dust Bowl took her hand. “I was worried you inherited the worst part of being a genius.”
“I don’t think I’m a genius,” Starlight dismissed with a blush coloring her cheeks. “Sunset and Moon are much smarter than me, they’re the real geniuses.”
“I dunno, Starlight,” Star countered, “I think you just need to apply yourself.”
“In any case, I’m glad you're okay. Some members of our family weren't so lucky.” Dust Bowl reached out, pulling her latest niece into a hug.
“Thank you.” Starlight returned the hug, a small smile on her face. “That means a lot.”
“At this rate, Star, you're gonna have your own think tank,” Notably joked, a friendly smile on his face.
“I think I’d like that,” Star replied with a laugh. “And the newest little star will be a member too.” He pointed at June’s stomach.
“Oh June, you’re expecting?!” Dust Bowl rushed over, nearly knocking Starlight over. Luckily, Notably managed to catch her.
“Please forgive Dust, she gets rather excited.”
“It’s okay.” Starlight smiled.
“Star and I just found out last night,” June told the other woman. “We wanted to tell everyone today.”
“I'm so happy for you!” Dust pulled June into a tight hug. “Notably, when are we going to have a child?”
“We can always try tonight,” Notably told her with a laugh. “The doctor did give the both of us fertility drugs to help with that.”
“I did not need to hear that,” Starlight groaned, making a face.
“Ignore her,” Sunset waved off. “I hope you two have a healthy baby. Are you hoping for a boy, or a girl?”
“A boy.” Dust Bowl pulled away from June. “Too many girls in the family as it is, the boys are rather outnumbered.”
“Yeah, you make a good point,” Moon replied. “I know you’ll be a great mom, Aunt Dust Bowl.” Dust smiled, giving the younger girl a hug.
“Thank you dear, I’m certainly going to try. One can only hope I can be as good a parent as my little brother.” Star smiled, rubbing his neck.
“You’ll be a great mother, Dusty,” Notably assured her, putting his arm around her. “I know it.” He kissed her cheek. Dust leaned on him, a blissful smile on her face.
“Here’s hoping your endeavors are fruitful,” Star offered. “And of course, you’ll be the godmother of the new baby.” He put an arm around June.
“Hey Diamond,” Herc's voice carried over, “Do you wanna play?”
“And what do you want to play?” Diamond asked with an incredulous look.
“Do you play tag?” he asked with a hopeful smile.
“Eww, I might get sweaty if I did that.” Diamond’s face scrunched up.
“So? Exercise is fun!” Herc countered. “Mom says if you exercise a lot, you feel happier.”
“Ugh, I’ll pass.” Diamond turned her nose up.
“Oh okay.” Herc nodded. “How about hide and seek?”
“Sure, you hide first,” Diamond said, hiding a mischievous smirk.
“Okay!” He nodded. “You gotta turn around first.” Diamond turned around and closed her eyes.
“Okay, go hide now,” Diamond told him. He ran off, vanishing from sight. Diamond opened her eyes, went over to the snack table and grabbed a drink. “And I guess I’ll look for him.”
“You guess?” Waltz asked, filling her cup up.
“Hey, it’s better than my first thought of just letting him stay in his hiding spot the whole day.” Diamond shrugged and started to leisurely walk and look for her cousin. Waltz shook her head, keeping her eye on them.
“Well, Diamond must be in a good mood today,” Sunset commented, watching the girl.
“I hope so.” Moon frowned.
“We’ll make sure she doesn’t do anything bad,” Starlight said. Sunset and Moon nodded, the two of them introducing Starlight to the rest of the family.
“Wow, almost everyone’s been great so far,” Starlight said with a bright smile.
“Told you, our family is great.” Sunset grinned, giving her sister a playful shove.
“Yeah, I’m really glad I came here today,” Starlight said, shoving Sunset back. Sunset stumbled a bit, bumping into Spoiled Rich.
“Watch where you step, brat,” Spoiled hissed. “You could’ve damaged this dress.”
“Sorry, Aunt Spoiled.” Sunset gave her a weak smile. “It won't happen again.”
“For your sake, it better not,” Spoiled replied, turning away from Sunset.
“My sake?” Sunset shook her head. She shrugged to Starlight, trying to beat a hasty retreat.
“Ugh, how does anyone stand to be that nasty?” Moon whispered.
“No idea.” Sunset shook her head. “I think it comes from bad morals.”
“Just proves money doesn’t make people better,” Starlight commented. They took up an empty table, looking out across the park. Various members of the family were milling about or chatting in groups, with the kids running about.
“Aside from the bad apples, this is such a perfect day,” Moon said with a smile. She adjusted her glasses, looking between her sisters. “So, how many kids do you think Dad really has?”
“Who can say?” Sunset shrugged. “I mean, that clinic is probably using the sample Dad left until it runs out.”
“And the only way you guys will know about them is if they actually want to meet your dad,” Waltz pointed out.
“Exactly, there’s just so many variables that muddy up making an educated guess,” Sunset said with a frown.
“Hey there is a bright side to it.” Waltz smiled.
“What's that?”
“Imagine if your dad went to one of those commercial clinics. Families would just be using his sample to try and get a genius kid for whatever reason.”
“True, though Dad left the sample before he was an accomplished scientist,” Sunset pointed out.
“Still. The clinic probably would have advertised it after the fact.” Waltz shrugged. “That really is a terrible reason to create a life.”
“I guess, I can imagine that would put a lot of strain on the child to try and be a genius,” Moon commented with a frown.
“Why do you think Dad takes time out for Herc?” Sunset asked. “He’s not really into our turbo nerd stuff.” She couldn't help but giggle. “It’s actually getting him into shape.”
“I bet Ms. June really appreciates that.” Waltz giggled as well.
“The best part is seeing them both trying to keep up with Herc. Talk about fish out of water.”
“Please tell me there are videos of this?” Starlight asked with a grin.
“Why yes Glim Glam there are~” Sunset pulled out her phone, bringing up a video of Star and June, playing soccer with Herc.
“Aww, that’s so cute!” Starlight beamed.
“I bet it makes them feel old,” Waltz joked.
“If you listen closely, you can hear their bones creaking,” Sunset joked. They all shared a laugh, drawing a few glances in their direction.
“I bet Herc is gonna be super popular with the girls in a few years,” Waltz said with a smile.
“Mom will have to beat them off with a stick.” Sunset grinned. “I can totally see her doing it.
“Yeah, she nearly ripped Grey’s head off when she met him,” Moon commented. “Faust help the first girl Herc brings home.”
“Yeah, it took a few days for the nail marks to vanish,” Sunset added.
“The fact that he stuck around after that speaks volumes about how much he likes you,” Waltz commented.
“I know, he’s great...” Sunset sighed, leaning back.
“And to think that when I met you you had a crush on that Alias guy,” Waltz teased, poking Sunset’s cheek.
“Well, this is more than a crush.” Sunset pouted, pushing her hand away
“Aww, is little Sunny in love~” Waltz said, leaning in close to her with a large grin.
“You jealous?” Sunset shot back.
“Nope, I’ve got a boyfriend right now and he’s great,” Waltz replied. “But nice try at teasing.”
“You sure he’s not just trapped in the closet?”
“Ooh, digging up that old chestnut,” Waltz said with a laugh. “No, he’s very straight. I’d give you a list of ways I know, but there’s kids around.”
“I'm glad.” Sunset sighed. “Waiting sucks...”
“Yeah, but the fact that your relationship is based on deeper stuff now will make the physical part way better,” Waltz told her with a smile. “I’m speaking from experience here.”
“I wonder if you could convince his mom to play at your wedding,” Moon spoke up, giggling at the idea.
“Ya know, I still haven’t met his mom,” Sunset said. “I’d ask to, but his family is a touchy subject.”
“Just take it slow, you're already waiting for the fun part,” Waltz advised with a wink.
“Trust me, slow is already the setting we’re on,” Sunset said with a sigh. “If we were going any slower we wouldn’t be moving.”
“You just gotta work on those social links.” Moon beamed.
“Darn it Moonie, you can’t use my love of Persona against me,” Sunset huffed.
“It's all fair game,” Moon snickered.
“What are you two even talking about?” Starlight asked, blinking.
“Persona is a game series,” Moon began, going into lecture mode. “It's like a playable anime, very Neiponese. They translate it into English, but keep it very faithful to the original script.”
“Yeah, the first two stuck more to a standard JRPG formula,” Sunset chimed in. “But being set in modern times made it stand out. But in the third and fourth game they added the social link system. They’re pretty great. We’ll have to let you play them at some point.”
Starlight quickly found herself swept up in her sisters’ video game ramblings, most of which was focused on Persona and its parent series, Shin Megami Tensei. She didn't say it, but it was all going over her head.
“So, when can I play one of these?” Starlight asked.
“You could spend the summer with Dad,” Sunset suggested, “I left most of my gaming stuff home. Don’t have a lot of room in the dorm.”
“I’ll ask my parents if I can,” Starlight said with a smile. “But aren’t you coming home for the summer?”
“Of course.” Sunset nodded. “And, our dear cousin Diamond Tiara might be joining us.”
“Oh, joy.” Starlight let her face flop onto the table.
“Speaking of Diamond.” Waltz looked around. “I haven't seen her or Herc in a while.”
“Well, she was actually looking for Herc, albeit slowly the last I saw,” Sunset said. She stood up. “Come on, let’s go look for them.” The group nodded, rising up to search the park for their younger family members. “Okay, knowing Herc, he’s probably up in a tree. So I’d focus there.”
“Up in a tree?” Starlight asked, heading for the tree line. The others followed after her and continued their search, keeping their eyes peeled for Diamond’s gaudy jewelry.
“Uh... Sunny?” Moon asked, coming to a stop.
“What is…” Sunset paused, following Moon’s gaze. She felt her eye twitch as she saw her little brother lying on the ground and clutching his arm with Diamond standing over him. “Herc!” Sunset practically dashed over, dropping to her knees next to her brother. “Diamond Tiara, you have five seconds to explain to me why my brother is on the ground.“
“He fell out of the tree when I found him,” Diamond answered. “He landed on his arm.”
“Nuh uh!” Herc shook his head, tears running down his face. “She threw rocks at me!”
“You what?!” Sunset roared, doing her best to not choke her cousin. She then covered Herc’s ears. “Why the fuck did you throw rocks at Herc?!”
Diamond frowned, crossing her arms. “I wasn't going to climb up after him.”
“So you threw rocks at him?! He could’ve cracked his head open! There’s being a spoiled little brat, and then there’s being an outright… Ugh! There isn’t a word in the English language that can describe how awful you are!”
“Hold him still.” Waltz knelt down next to them, gently feeling Herc’s arm. “It doesn't feel broken, he’s probably just got a sprain.”
“You got lucky,” Sunset growled at Diamond as she gently picked up Herc. “Next time, try thinking of someone other than yourself.”
“Sunny, it hurts...” Herc whined, looking up at her.
“I know, little bro.” Sunset kissed the top of his head and carried him back to the reunion. “But we’re gonna get you to the doctor and they’ll help you out. Moon,” she turned her head to her younger sister, “grab my phone and text Grey. Tell him I need a ride to the hospital for Herc.”
“Right.” Moon nodded, rushing over and fishing Sunset’s phone out of her pocket.
“I guess I'll go tell your dad.” Waltz stood up, glaring at Diamond.
“Thanks,” Sunset replied, doing her best not to jostle Herc as she carried him towards the parking lot.