Phoenix Rising

Chapters

Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Interlude-1
Chapter Nine

Chapter One

The last thing Sunset remembered clearly was pain. Whether it had been the pain of her transformation. Or the pain from the healing of the elements. She opened her bruised eyes and looked up to see Twilight Sparkle standing above her. Tears poured from her eyes as she heard Twilight’s firm lecture. “You will never rule in Equestria! Any power you had in this world is gone! Tonight, you’ve shown everyone who you really are. You’ve shown them what is in your heart.”

Sunset squeezed her eyes and put a hand to her face. She forced herself to her hands and knees. “I-I’m sorry… so sorry. I didn’t know there was another way…” She opened her eyes and stared up at Twilight, whose lips were a thin line.

“The magic of friendship doesn’t just exist in Equestria. It’s everywhere. You can seek it out, or you can forever be alone.” Twilight looked away from Sunset, her ears pinning back against her head.

Sunset pulled herself up to the top of the crater. Trembling tears ran down her cheeks. “Bu-but all I’ve done since being here is drive everyone apart. I don’t know the first thing about friendship…” She turned her head before feeling the touch of Twilight’s hand pulling her up out of the crater.

Twilight smiled and indicated her friends with the hand not holding Sunset’s “I bet they can teach you..”

“Those are my girls woohoo!” Spike cheered wildly.

As Principal Celestia stepped forward to recrown Twilight, Sunset Shimmer pulled back. She limped over to the destroyed entrance hall, tears still running down her cheeks. Maybe Twilight Sparkle is right… but, not now.

Vice Principal Luna walked over with a trowel, her lips in a scowl. “Sunset Shimmer, I expect you, along with Snips and Snails, to clean up as much of the damage as you can while the fall formal is going on. I don’t believe it needs to be stated that not one of you are allowed in the gym until the dance is over. Now I suggest all three of you get started!”

Sunset nodded and started to slowly, painfully pick up the rubble and put it into the wheelbarrow that Snips and Snails had brought. She didn’t keep track of the time or the fact that Vice Principal Luna was keeping an eye on them and continued picking up the rubble until she spotted Twilight hugging all of her new friends. She watched as Twilight walked through the portal and all of the girls went back to their normal human selves. She lowered her head and took a deep breath Stuck… I’m stuck here for another thirty moons...

“You have done… acceptable work tonight. I suggest you three head straight home. You will be suspended for one full school week starting Monday morning. I will make certain that your parents receive notice.” Vice Principal Luna walked away from the three teenagers.

Snips and Snails winced. They set down the wheelbarrow and stretched their fingers a bit. “Come on Snips let’s get home…”

The other boy nodded and walked away, not even looking in Sunset’s direction. “Mom is going to kill me…”

Sunset stayed still until she could no longer hear the sound of the boys. She swallowed and tried not to shift her shoulders as she turned and limped towards the storage shed she had been staying in. She was so focused on getting to her sleep mat that she failed to notice that she was being followed.

Principal Celestia narrowed her eyes as she watched Sunset wince and open the door before closing it. So, this is where you’ve been staying… Celestia pulled out her cellphone and dialed. “Lu? It’s Tia, I’m going to be a bit late getting home. Can you grab dinner? Yeah, pizza is fine. Oh, make sure the guest room is made up. Thanks. Love you too.” Celestia hung up and placed her phone back in her pocket before slowly creeping forward and opening the door. The first thing she saw was Sunset’s leather jacket crumpled on the floor and an almost empty bottle of water lying on its side. Sunset herself was laying on a gym mat on her belly, moaning quietly with tears running down her cheeks from her closed eyes. Celestia’s hands went quickly to her mouth as she finally looked at Sunset’s back. The sleeveless purple shirt she wore was soaked through with blood.

“Oh Sunset…” Celestia got to her knees. She hesitated a moment before reaching out and touching Sunset’s shoulder. “Sunset Shimmer can you hear me?”

Sunset’s eyes opened, though they didn’t appear to be fully focused, as she looked up at Celestia. “I’m sorry, Princess…”

Celestia bit her lip. She looked around the storage shed, but there was nothing there to stop the bleeding . If she couldn’t at least slow it she’d have to take Sunset to the hospital and who knew what would happen then. Bullshit, Celestia. You know what would happen. CPS would be called. They’d find she has no family, no paperwork, nothing! “Sunset I need you to trust me. Alright?”

Sunset blinked a few times before giving a small nod.

Celestia slowly and gently picked up the very light teenager in her arms. “Wrap your arms around my neck. Alright, Sunset?”

Sunset’s arms slowly curled around Celestia’s neck as she buried her face in Celestia’s chest.

Celestia ignored the warm blood soaking into the sleeves of her jacket and hummed softly in her ear. “I need to stop your bleeding. We’re going to head into my office. Okay? You don’t need to answer. I’ll come back for your jacket later.” Celestia kicked open the door and walked through the rubble. As soon as she reached her office, she set Sunset down in her chair. “Alright, Sunset. I’ll be right back. I need to get something to stop the bleeding.” She pulled back, only to feel Sunset tighten her grip around her neck.

“No… don’t leave me please…” Sunset breathed out trembling. “Please…”

Celestia frowned. “Sunset… Sunset sweetheart I have to go but only for a moment… I promise I’ll be right back. I’ll even run.”

Sunset’s arms stayed tight as she trembled. “Pr-promise?”

“I swear to you, Sunset, I’ll be back as soon as absolutely possible. But you have to let me go. Okay?” Celestia reached for her hands, hoping she wouldn’t have to untangle Sunset’s grip, but was ready if she needed to. Luckily, Sunset’s fingers unclasped and her arms slowly slid down Celestia’s chest.

Celestia took off out of the room at a run, kicking off her heeled boots. She ducked into the girl’s locker room, gathering as many towels as she could find before snatching the large first aid kit. “Damn it why does the clinic have to be locked!?” Celestia shook her head. “The key is in the desk. Slow Sunset’s bleeding, then transfer her to the clinic. Simple.” With another glance around the room she ran back to her office.

“Alright, Sunset. Can you stand up?” Celestia saw her give a small shake of her head. She frowned, laying several towels on the floor, then lifted Sunset back into her arms and placed her on her belly. “I need to cut your shirt off. Alright, Sunset? I need to be able to see where you’re bleeding from.”

Sunset gave a small noise of acceptance. Celestia quickly cut Sunset’s shirt up the middle. She pulled both sides down, exposing two long gashes. She bit into her lip and ran her finger down Sunset’s spinal cord, pausing right above the blood stain soaking into Sunset’s skirt.

“Sunset? Honey I need you to lift your hips if you can. I need to pull down your skirt just a bit to get to the bleeding.”

Sunset weakly lifted her hips and Celestia pulled her skirt to halfway down her bottom. She saw a gash the length of a quarter. Celestia pressed the towel onto all three wounds and took Sunset’s pulse, frowning.

“Sunset… I can’t help you by myself. I need help. I’m going to call an old friend. I need you to trust me. Please Sunset I won’t let anything happen to you.”

Sunset opened her right eye and looked up at Celestia. “Trust you…”

Celestia pulls out her cellphone and dialed, keeping her hand on Sunset’s shoulder and watching as the white towels slowly began to turn red. “Please answer…”

“Director Coulson here.”

Celestia blinked before she shook her head. “Director? This is Celestia Everfree. I used to be an agent. You gave me this number to call if I ever needed help… and I really need help!”

“I’m listening, Agent.”

“I’ve got a young girl who suffered a severe injury. She is still bleeding out in front of me and I can’t take her to the hospital… please I promise that I’ll explain everything once you get here.” Celestia ran her fingers through Sunset’s sweat-soaked hair as she heard Coulson ruffling some papers.

“We’ll be there in ten minutes. Can she last that long?”

Celestia bit her lip, looking Sunset over “Yes, I’ll make certain she does. Hurry please.” Celestia hung up and pressed hard onto the wounds on her back, causing Sunset to cry out “I’m sorry, Sunset. I have to slow the bleeding as much as I can.”

Celestia glanced up at the clock every now and then as she applied pressure as much as she could until finally she heard footsteps coming down the hall.“In here, hurry please!” She turned back to Sunset, brushing a strand of her hair out of her eyes, and smiled. “It’s alright now, Sunset, you’re going to be just fine!”

Chapter Two

Celestia’s eyes lit up as the older man with a receding hairline came in, followed by a young woman with shoulder-length dark hair carrying a medical bag. “Oh, thank goodness… Jemma, is that you?”

The young woman got to her knees next to Celestia, laying a hand on hers. “We’ll catch up later, after I save her life.” Jemma Simmons shook her head, taking over holding the towel over Sunset’s wounds and murmuring to herself as Celestia stood up, knowing to get out of the way.

“Agent Everfree, it’s a good thing you called us when you did. What with the damage to your school it won’t take long for the wrong sort of people to come out of the woodwork.” Coulson offered his hand to Celestia, who shakingly took it. “Now, before we come up with a good cover story, why don’t you tell me what actually happened?”

“Excuse me? Before you both start talking, is there a place with a bed or cot I can use? Stitching will be easier if i’m not on my knees.” Simmons spoke up, having moved the bloody towels as the wounds were just slowly weeping, blood no longer pouring.

“Oh! Yes, of course.” Celestia walked over to her desk and took out the key, ignoring her bloody chair and the bloody handprints on the top of her desk. “This is the key to the nurse’s office. I can carry her for you.”

Simmons smiled up at Celestia. “That would be very appreciated, thank you!” the british tones of her voice giving it an almost musical quality as Celestia knelt next to her, slowly lifting Sunset up still laying on her stomach. The teen wiggled weakly in protest but quickly stilled.

“I’m sorry, Sunset, but we need to move you and I don’t want to chance restarting your bleeding.” Celestia murmured into the teenager’s hair as they quickly moved to the nurse’s office, Simmons right behind her ready to open the door. “This is the room.”

Simmons quickly unlocked the door and opened it, flipping on the light. “Lay her down on the bed. Does she have any medical allergies I should be aware of?”

Celestia opened her mouth to answer, but paused as she laid Sunset down on her belly “I… don’t know. I don’t think so but I can’t be certain.”

Simmons nodded. “Alright, then. Before I give her novocaine I’ll give her a shot of benadryl to hopefully offset anything that might pop up.” She opened her medical bag and pulled out the supplies she would need: two syringes, two vials, a needle and surgical thread. “She may need an IV, but I want to get her stitched up first.”

Relieved that Sunset was in good hands, Celestia took several steps back to where Coulson was waiting. “She’ll be alright, won’t she?”

“Agent Simmons is a very gifted woman with a Doctorate in Biochemistry and several degrees in Bio Sciences. The girl is in the best hands,” Coulson assured Celestia, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Now what happened, Agent Everfree? I need to know to be able to help you come up with a possible story that people will believe.”

Celestia nodded, forcing her eyes away from Sunset. “It started a few days ago, when a girl came into my office. She told me she had just transferred in…” Over the next several minutes Celestia told Coulson everything that happened. “She left to go back to home with her crown and I… I wanted to make sure that Sunset had a safe place to sleep. I’m ashamed that it took me this long to look into her housing… but when I saw those wounds on her…”

Coulson rubbed his chin in consideration. “Well, this isn’t the worst I’ve had to cover up, but understand this, Agent: SHIELD is involved now.” He smiled. “That just means Sunset is going to get the help she needs. Nothing invasive, I promise. After all, she's just a kid; I’d never be able to look myself in the eye if I hurt her. So… I think the best explanation is a gas line rupture. I’ll get my computer girl working to discredit any pictures or videos that get out while I get some records created for her.”

Celestia smiled, thankfully closing her eyes. “I knew you wouldn’t hurt her… not after everything with Luna.”

“How is your sister, by the way? I was planning to ask. After all, that type of experience can have lasting after-effects.” Coulson smiled sadly. “She was a strong girl though, so I’m hopeful.”

“Well, she's still an annoying little sister, but I think that’s a kid sister’s prime directive. She went to university, got her Masters in School Administration, and now works here as my Vice Principal. We still live together like the doctor recommended, but I think that after everything, she is doing really well. You’ll have to come by and see her.”

“And... done!” Simmons stepped back with a smile. “I hereby declare that my patient shall have no more bleeding... except for the small amount of blood I’m going to take right now to check her blood count and to get her blood type.” She carefully withdrew a small amount of blood to test.

Celestia walked over to the bed holding a blanket in her arms, which she laid gently over Sunset’s back. “Hey… how are you feeling?”

Sunset stared into Celestia’s eyes, her own still a bit glazed over. “Rotten… Princess… I’m so sorry…”

Celestia ran her fingers through Sunset’s hair, her heart slowing as the realization that Sunset was out of the woods was kicking in. Princess, I don’t know why you did what you did to her, but you can be damned certain I will never make such a mistake!

“Sunset, I’m not the Princess. I’m Principal Celestia. You are going to be just fine, I promise. You are safe now.”

Sunset blinked a few times, and her shoulders seemed to slump as she closed her eyes, enjoying the feeling of Celestia’s fingers running through her hair. Safe…

“Oh dear, I was a bit worried about that; she needs about a liter of her blood replaced. Luckily she is type O, which I thought to bring.” Simmons fashioned an IV pole and hung the blood before gently taking Sunset’s arm and starting an IV, amazed at how docile the teen was behaving. Partially due to the blood loss, I’d think. “Alright, my dear. We’re going to let this get into your veins then retest your blood count. If it’s close enough to normal I’d like to start some fluids along with some penicillin in case you picked anything up from those wounds. After that, you’ll be released to go home.”

Sunset weakly drew her knees up and trembled. She had no desire to go back to the storage shed and be alone…

I should have run through the portal just as it was about to close. I’d probably be placed in the dungeons, but at least the guards would look after me…I don’t want to be alone! I-I’m afraid…

“Don’t worry, Sunset, you’ll be coming home with me tonight. Luna and I will get your things from the storage shed tomorrow while you rest.” Celestia smiled, sadly wiping away the single tear that was running down Sunset’s cheek.

Sunset stared up at Celestia, shock and surprise clearly written across her face. “Y-you’re taking me to your home?”

“Yes, and it’s yours from now on too, I think. I don’t know how old you were in your own home, but here on earth you are not quite sixteen years old, Sunset; you’re a minor, child. I can’t let you stay by yourself… I should have tracked you down sooner. I am so sorry that I didn’t.” Celestia shook her head, “But I’m here now, in whatever form you need me, whether it be a principal, a guardian, a friend…”

A mother…

Sunset just continued to stare, her eyes filling with unshed tears making it difficult to focus on Celestia’s face until she blinked, allowing them to trickle down her cheeks. “But I’m a m-monster…”

“No!” Celestia shook her head firmly. “Sunset Shimmer, whatever you were is not who you are anymore. That Sunset is dead. You are brand new; I can see it in your eyes. And I promise you… I swear to you that you will never be a monster again. You are safe now.”

Sunset grabbed hold of Celestia’s shirt and buried her face in her chest, weeping quietly as Celestia gently embraced her stroking her hair. They stayed like that for several moments until Celestia noticed Sunset had stopped crying, her chest slowly rising and falling in slumber.

“Poor girl… she’s had quite the night, hasn’t she?” Simmons asked, replacing the empty bag of blood with a full saline bag.

“You could say that.” Celestia gently laid Sunset back down on the bed, but was unable to release her grasp on her shirt. “Would you get me a chair?”

Simmons smiled before bringing a chair for Celestia to sit in. “Poor little one. She must really trust you, though.”

“Why do you say to that, Jemma?” Celestia continued to stroke Sunset’s hair. It seemed to calm her squirms.

“The way she is clutching your shirt, even in her sleep... Many traumatized children are so worried that their protector will leave them that they refuse to let go, even in slumber.” Simmons gave her an injection of morphine and penicillin. “This should help her rest.”

Celestia bit her lip and closed her eyes; she had handled traumatized teenagers before, she could do it again. “I’ll call my niece tomorrow and see if she might be able to take over for me for at least a few days.”

“A good idea,” Coulson said quietly.

Celestia turned her head to see him holding a manilla folder. “Where did you get that?”

“I stepped out to get the files that Miss Shimmer is going to need. You were distracted, so I saw no reason to excuse myself.” He opened the folder. “It’s a New York State birth certificate. The parents are deceased so SHIELD agents won’t worry. She has a social security card, elementary school records... that sort of thing. Luckily, teenagers don’t need too big of a paper trail. I’ll set this right here.” He laid the folder on top of Celestia’s jacket.

“Thank you… for everything you have done. First Luna, and now this.” Celestia gratefully wiped a tear from her eye.

Coulson smiled. “It’s not just my job, Celestia, it’s also my pleasure. When Sunset is feeling a bit better there's some people I’d like her to talk with, but that can wait for a little bit, at least.” He hesitated for a moment. “Oh, there are guardianship papers in there with your name on them as well. If anything happens to her, you will be held responsible.”

Celestia nodded firmly. “I understand.” She glanced at the IV to see the saline bag empty. Simmons noticed at the same time and removed Sunset’s IV, placing a bandaid on her arm.

“Alright, in my professional opinion she is well enough to go home. Put her straight to bed and have a good meal ready for her when she wakes up in the morning.” Simmons packed up her supplies and walked over to Coulson, who nodded.

“We’ll be in touch, Celestia.” With that, both agents walked back out of the school.

Celestia shook her head and gathered Sunset in her arms. “What a mess… I’ll have to come back before Sunset wakes up and clean up all this blood.” She reached into her bloodied jacket and grabbed her phone and car keys.

It didn’t take long to walk to where her white SUV was parked in the teacher lot, and once more Celestia was thankful for the self-opening back doors. Though normally I’m using those for when Luna drinks a bit too much or games too hard... She gently pulled Sunset’s hand from her shirt and laid the girl over the back seat, relieved that at this time of night there would be little to no traffic on the road. She shut the back door and climbed into the driver’s seat, starting the SUV after taking one final glance at Sunset.

“Let’s get you home, Sweetheart.”

Chapter Three

Luckily the drive was not that long even in the worst of traffic. And after two AM it was dead or practically so. In less than five minutes, she was pulling into the driveway of her two-story home. She switched off the engine and paused for a moment, just listening to the way Sunset was catching her breath in her sleep. Celestia let her head fall forward against the steering wheel. Stupid… of course her breath is catching! She got out of the SUV and hesitated a moment. Sunset was light, yes, but she wasn’t exactly small enough for Celestia to carry single armed. Celestia bit into her lip, chewing. If Luna is playing one of her online matches I’ll never get her attention to open the door...Dammit.

Celestia peeked in the window to see Sunset still curled up exactly how she left her, then headed straight for the house, unlocking the door with her key. She opened the front door and looked around. She heard the vicious death of something. She sighed in relief. Luna was in the living room, playing single-player. “Luna!”

“One moment, Tia. I am about to send a missile right into this super mutant’s head!”

Celestia paused as she heard the explosion, followed by her sister’s giddy laughter. She shook her head as Luna came to the entryway to their home. Her hair was pulled back into a high ponytail. She wore a pair of black boxer shorts and one of her many gaming shirts. This one appeared to feature a figure in a large metal armor, holding a large launcher of some type. A dog stood beside the man’s side, the words ‘Fall Out 4’ above the image.

“Tia! What on earth took you so long? I thought you were just going to track down Shimmer, give her a look over and maybe bring her home for the night. That was over two hours ag- is that blood?” Luna took her sister’s white hands. She stared at the blood covering her palms and the bit on her t-shirt.

“Yes, I haven't exactly had the time to get washed off… Oh Luna… it was so awful! She has been staying in the summer storage shed… “ Celestia shook her head. “I need to go get her out of the car. Will you keep the door open?”

“Yeah, of course…” Luna watched as Celestia headed back to her SUV, opened the back doors, and lifted a still figure from inside. Luna bit down on her lip hard to keep from making a noise. She would have known that hair anywhere. But instead of fighting away from Celestia, Sunset Shimmer simply lay still.

Celestia walked back, cradling the teenager “Alright, you did get the spare bedroom ready for her, didn’t you?”

“O-of course I did Tia, is she…”

Celestia shook her head. “Let me get her tucked in and then we’ll talk I promise.”

Luna simply moved back into the living room and sat back down on the large couch, staring at her paused game.

Celestia nudged open the door to their guest room and smiled. Luna really had made sure to get the room ready. Clean sheets and everything. Slowly, she went to lay Sunset onto the mattress, when Sunset’s eyes twitched and her hand grasped hold of Celestia’s shirt once again, a whimper escaping her lips.

Celestia frowned as she gently placed her hand upon Sunset’s. “Sunset, I’m here. You’re safe, I promise. You are safe.” She rubbed her thumb over Sunset’s own until the grip loosened. “That’s right it’s alright sweetheart… I’m just tucking you in… You need to sleep.” Celestia realized Sunset wasn’t exactly awake, but she kept murmuring gentle words as Sunset’s grip finally released. She pulled the blanket over Sunset’s body, ignoring her pants and boots she still had on.

Celestia ran her hand through Sunset’s hair one final time before she left the room. She kept the door wide open, planning to track down the baby monitor she had used in the past when helping her niece babysit. She sighed, walked into the kitchen, snagging a piece of pizza from the box and poured a glass of soda before taking a big bite. It was cold, but at this point she really didn’t care.

Luna looked up as Celestia leaned on the bar behind her, nursing a glass of cola and eating cold pizza ignoring the microwave behind her. “That bad?”

“Luna… I have never before been so furious at myself and at you!” Celestia frowned as she took another bite, glowering as Luna blinked in shock.

“Me? What did I do?”

“Luna… You had her working on cleaning up the rubble.” Celestia stated, putting down her half-eaten pizza, finding her appetite completely gone.

“Yes, and even though she did very little work I did not scold nor threaten her.” Luna frowned, considering how Sunset Shimmer had behaved once given the order to help clean up. “In fact she did very little of the clean up. Her mind seemed in another place.” Luna shook her head as Celestia sat next to her.

“That's because she was going into shock, Luna! She was already bleeding badly. You should see my jacket just from carrying her from the storage shed back to my office.” Celestia hugged herself and shook her head as Luna’s eyes narrowed.

“Bleeding? What on earth caused that much blood!?” Luna stared taking in the smears of blood all over her sister's arms and torso including what looked like a fingerprint on her cheek.

Celestia closed her eyes. “You remember that… thing she became?”

“Difficult to forget when your student turns into a demon, Celestia. Especially when it was less than five hours ago.” Luna frowned, then paused. “Did her becoming a demon hurt her that badly?”

“N-not exactly.” Celestia stated after a few moments to consider. “Becoming a demon hurt her tremendously, I think, but what caused her bleeding was being turned back into Sunset Shimmer. She had two large gashes where her wings had been and a small one where her tail was.”

Luna’s hand went to her mouth in shock as she trembled “An-and I had her cleaning up? My god… I… Tia I had no idea!”

Celestia wrapped her arms tightly around Luna’s trembling form “Shh, it’s alright Lu, it was difficult to see the blood with her jacket on. The only reason I saw how bad it was because Sunset had taken her jacket off.”

“I’ll apologize… I will Tia.”

“Alright, not right now though. She needs sleep. She’s had an awful long night.” Celestia stroked the top of Luna’s hair as she held her to her chest, feeling Luna’s nod.

“So you took her to the hospital?” Luna pulled back from Celestia, frowning. “How did you manage that? She has no records besides those we forged to allow her to attend CHS.”

“I know, and I knew I couldn’t take her to the hospital. So I called in a favor.” Celestia smiled a bit as Luna stared at her in shock.

“But, I thought… the news said!” Luna shook her head, then laughed. “He never could have been HYDRA though. So he is alright?”

“Quite fine it seems, answered the phone as director. He came with Jemma and she fixed Sunset up while he and I talked. Director Coulson had a paper trail created for Sunset. He also told me SHIELD was involved now.” Celestia shrugged as Luna rolled her eyes.

“Of course they are, well Coulson always had a soft spot for kids. I should know…” Luna smiled though her eyes seemed a bit glazed over. “Next time he comes to see her or you I’d like to say hi.”

“Of course Lu, he asked how you were doing.” Celestia smiled before hesitating “I need a favor.”

Luna lifted an eyebrow “Of course you do. This favor is going to involve me having to get dressed again, isn’t it?”

“Nothing horrible, Lu. Jeans will be fine. There is a lot of blood left in the storage shed, along with my office and the nurse’s office. I planned to go clean it up in the morning, but if Sunset woke up and I wasn’t here…” Celestia looked away. as

Luna chuckled, getting up.“Say no more, big sis. Super Luna to the rescue. I’ll grab Sunset’s things. While I’m there anything else you need?” Luna stretched her arms over her head before saving her game.

“My jacket and Sunset’s new records are in the clinic. I want to put them somewhere safe.” Celestia smiled standing up.

“Tia, I knew you loved that jacket but somewhere safe really?” Luna poked her tongue out as Celestia laughed.

“Dork..”

“Miss Priss.” Luna replied, giggling. She raced to her room. just out of Celestia’s reach, to slip on a pair of jeans.

Celestia glanced at the time and winced. Four AM? Ugh, I haven’t been up this late since… She let the thought fade out as she grabbed a towel from the hall closet and heard the front door open and close. Sunset should sleep for a little while longer at least, and I really could use a shower. She glanced towards where the guest room door was wide open and headed for the bathroom. She left the door open -just in case- and undressed before climbing in under the hot water allowing the water pressure to pound against her head and shoulders, her eyes closed.

Sunset’s eyes snapped open as she stared around, trembling. Where am I? I-I don’t know where this is… Immediately her mind went to having been captured and the nice bed she was in felt different. She couldn’t move! “Help me! Please help me! Let me go! Please I’m sorry!” Sunset squirmed against her restraints as she screamed at the top of her lungs, her eyes wild as she thrashed. Princess, please! Don’t leave me here! “Help me!”

“Sunset!”

Sunset looked up to see a familiar head of hair running into the room. A whimper escaped her lips. “H-help me… please I’m sorry…”

Celestia heard Sunset screaming. She jumped out of the shower. not even bothering with her towel. As she kneeled next to Sunset’s bed she was starting to regret that lapse as the water droplets evaporating off her bare skin caused her to shiver. Sunset first, getting warm later. Celestia took Sunset’s hand in her own as the girl trembled and whimpered.

“You are safe, Sunset. You’re in my house right now. In your new bed. I’m sorry I wasn’t here… It was just a nigh… just a bad dream.”

Sunset blinked a few times as her panic faded taking in the real picture. She was in a nice-sized, if barren room, the walls painted a off-white. She was covered with a warm, dark-blue comforter laying in a queen size bed. On her right side, holding her hand and murmuring to her, wasn’t Princess Celestia, but was instead her Principal. Her for some reason very naked principal. “Pr-principal Celestia?”

Celestia sighed in relief “Yes, it’s me Sunset.” She groaned a touch as she remembered she was in a very compromising position right now. If Sunset was still who she had been I’d be out of a job and probably in jail! “You were screaming and… I guess I didn’t think. I was in the shower.”

“N-no I understand… I.. thank you.” Sunset’s voice was quiet as she closed her eyes, enjoying the feel of Celestia’s thumb rubbing over her own.

“Would you mind if I left just long enough to get dressed or grab a towel?” Celestia asked after a moment, not surprised to see Sunset consider before nodding. Celestia got up and quickly pulled on the pair of boxers Luna had been wearing along with a t shirt she grabbed.

Sunset clutched her hands to her chest, trembling and wondering what was taking Celestia so long. She shook her head Relax, Shimmer. It hasn’t even been a minute… has it? Had Celestia decided to just go to bed… or to leave m-

“I’m back, Sunset. I just grabbed some of Luna’s things-her room is closer.”

Sunset opened her eyes to see Celestia smiling gently, wearing a one-up t-shirt. Her hair fell over one eye. “W-whats going on?”

“Do you remember what happened, Sunset?” Celestia asked, sitting on the side of the bed. She took Sunset’s hand again as Sunset frowned, thinking.

“I… was going to smash the portal but… that would have stranded me here to… and I was ready to just let Twilight go when… they had to talk about how wonderful Twilight Sparkle was and… I took her crown…” Sunset trailed off. “I remember pain…”

Celestia bit her lip. She knew how common amnesia was in cases like this. “You turned into something, Sunset… Something full of evil and hate. Twilight Sparkle and the others purged you of it… I think?”

Sunset squeezed her eyes tight, remembering waking up in the crater and the massive amount of pain. “....I… yes. What happens to me now?” Her voice trembled as she was unable to even fake being brave. What did the elements do to me.. I...I don’t feel like “me” anymore.

“For now I want you to try and go back to sleep. You’ve had such a long night Sunset. Don’t worry, I’ll be right here. When you wake up we’ll have a nice breakfast and figure out our plans for Saturday. Alright?” Celestia smiled gently as Sunset’s hand continued to clutch her own.

“I… yes that sounds nice I’m still so…” Sunset trailed off as her fatigue caught up with her and she fell back to sleep.

Celestia sat next to her, holding her hand until she heard the door open and close, along with Luna’s soft cursing as her sister laid down on the couch exhausted. After a few more minutes Celestia moved to the chair in the corner of the room and allowed her eyes to slide shut, sleep finally claiming her.

Chapter Four

Celestia’s eyelids twitched as a familiar smell invaded her nostrils. She took a sniff, her mind slowly waking up to see Luna standing in front of her. She held out a mug of coffee, a sad smile on her lips as her hair fell into her eyes.

Celestia stretched before reaching out for the mug and cradling it in her hands and taking a sip. She sighed as the hot liquid flowed down her throat and slowly waking her up . She placed the mug down on the floor. “What time is it?” she asked, her voice low so not awaken the fitfully-sleeping teenager across the room.

Luna pulled her cellphone out and hummed. “Early, still. I noticed we are basically out of everything food wise.”

Celestia frowned. “Can I trust you to go out and get healthy breakfast foods?” She picked her coffee back up as Luna rolled her eyes.

“Yes, Mother, healthy breakfast foods. I got it.” Luna hesitated for a few seconds. “So I uh… looked at Sunset’s paperwork. You are listed as guardian.”

Celestia paused, lifting an eyebrow patiently.

“Well, obviously that means Miss. Shimmer will be staying with us for the long run?” Luna put her cellphone back in her jeans pocket, obviously having not changed out of them after having to clean the blood up last night.

“Thats right, at least until that portal reopens.” And not until I am somehow able to speak to my doppelganger. Celestia took another large swallow of her coffee.

Luna hmmed “Well, what about her suspension? With her injuries, I don’t think it’s a good idea for her to stay alone.”

“And I agree, Luna. Sunset needs someone here with her. So I was thinking that you…” Celestia saw Luna firmly shake her head.

“Your paperwork, Tia. I have my own to deal with, so there is no way you get to dump that on me. Besides I’m not authorised to act as main principal yet.” Luna glanced across the room towards where Sunset let out a small whine, her leg kicking out “And in case you plan to go to work and leave me home instead… I do not feel it would be a good idea for her and I to be left alone. There is still... “

“I understand Luna, and no I was not thinking anything like that. In fact I plan to call our niece later this morning and invite them over for dinner. I’m sure the two of us can figure something that the Superintendent can live with.” Celestia sighed. “Now here, go get breakfast foods. Eggs, pancake mix, you know that sort of stuff.”

“Righto, Chinese takeout for dinner then?” Luna rifled in Celestia’s purse for cash.

“Yes, I think that’ll be fine. Now get going and remember I like pulp in my orange juice.” Celestia shooed her off and sighed. She leaned back, sipping her coffee and watching Sunset sleep. Is it my imagination or does she look like she’s having a puppy dream? She crept closer to see that Sunset was in fact moving her legs and arms as if running.

Celestia frowned, touching Sunset’s tousled sweaty hair and running her fingers through it, marveling at the feel. There is so little I know about you yet Sunset, but, I do know this. There is no longer any need for you to run away.

Celestia pulled the chair up closer to the bed and sat down, taking Sunset’s hand in her own. Sunset’s running motion slowed and Celestia just sat there holding her hand.

Luna frowned at the box of pancake mix as she mixed enough for the three of them to eat. Tia, I just don’t know about this… She glanced back towards the guest room, now Shimmer’s room, and sighed. Her lips pursed into a line as she threw the bacon and sausage into a pan. Maybe this will wake her up.

Celestia watched as Sunset began to twitch, her nose crinkling as her eyes opened. Celestia forced herself to swallow hard as she looked into Sunset’s eyes Oh, sweetheart… Where yesterday her eyes had shined with assertiveness and confidence, today they were empty. Filled with fear. She looks like one of those caged animals which has just been let go back into the wild… so afraid to leave the cage.

“Good morning, Sunset. How are you feeling?” Celestia continued, stroking the back of Sunset’s thumb.

“I…” Sunset looked away, biting her lip “I hurt a bit.” She ignored the loud growling coming from her own belly. “My back feels like it’s on fire…”

Celestia nodded. “Do you want some tylenol or something stronger?”

“Whatever is available I mean…” Sunset considered, pulling her hand back even though she really didn’t want to.

“Doctor Simmons gave me a few doses of vicodin to help you through. Have you ever taken that before?” Celestia smiled, pulling her hand back and feeling Sunset’s grip tighten before releasing.

“No, I mean I don’t think so… when I had my first cycle I convinced one of the seniors to give me a few pills for pain…” Sunset said as she sat up, wincing.

“Well, let’s try half a pill then. Alright?” Celestia smiled as Sunset nodded after a few moments of thought.

“Alright. I’m going to get you a t-shirt to put on and the pill. You can take it with your breakfast.” Celestia stood up. “Do you like coffee?”

“I um, yes when I can get coffee I enjoy it. I mean it’s not often but…” Sunset rubbed the comforter that covered her lap.

“Of course. I’ll be right back.” Celestia left the room and headed to her room Once there, she dug in her dresser for a shirt for Sunset. After a few seconds of search she found one of her old soccer jerseys. Well, it’s not perfect but it’ll do. She smiled, taking in the blue and yellow jersey ‘Wondercolts’ spelled out on the front and the name Everfree above the number eleven on the back. She shook her head, freeing her mind from old memories both good and bad before taking the shirt back to Sunset. “Here, this should work, Sunset.”

Sunset took the shirt, pulling it on slowly over her head. “Thank you…”

Celestia frowned while Sunset looked away. So sedate… A smile was back on her lips by the time Sunset turned back to look at her. “I bet you’re hungry, hmm? Last night was… Well! Anyway come on Luna should be done cooking.” Celestia offered her hand to help Sunset up, who took it, trembling.

“L-Luna? You mean the Vice Principal?” Sunset asked after a few moments, her top teeth biting into her lip as she stood up, wincing,.

“That’s right. Her room is the first one when you go up the stairs. Ah, I should probably warn you not to go into there unless she specifically lets you in or tells you to go in there.” Celestia shrugged. “She's a bit private about her room.”

“I-I understand. Not a problem, Principal Celestia,” Sunset squeaked out after a moment, her thoughts back in the past where she had tried to find out all she could about Nightmare Moon. I sure don’t want Vice Principal Luna angry at me…

After a moment Sunset followed Celestia out of the bedroom to a dining room where Luna was placing the last platter of food on it. “A dining room table?”

“Normally Luna and I eat at the bar but it’s not really proper with three people eating.” Celestia smiled before sitting down, encouraging Sunset to do the same which she did after a moment. She tried to ignore the look Luna was giving her as she stared down at the table.

“Here. Eat all you want, Shimmer.” Luna set the full plate in front of Sunset, causing the teenager to look up and immediately panic.

The plate was full of food. There was a stack of three pancakes with butter melting on them, scrambled eggs with just the right amount of salt and pepper, and hash browns steaming and crispy. All of that caused Sunset’s stomach to growl even louder. But then she saw them on the side of the plate-two strips of crunchy bacon and two sausage links. She bit her lip. WhatdoIdo? WhatdoIdo? Sunset wasn’t even certain that her hosts understood she wasn’t human, not to mention mostly vegetarian. It was different when she had no choice but…

Celestia frowned as Sunset stared at the plate like she was a deer in the headlights of her SUV. Or a pony… Celestia mentally groaned as she realized what was going on. She poured Sunset a small cup of coffee and smiled, removing the pork from Sunset’s plate “Sunset, if you don’t like something you can tell us. We won’t get upset. Right, Lu?”

Luna looked up, having just taken a large bite of bacon, and shrugged. “If Shimmer is unable to understand the glory that is bacon that’s no skin off my nose. Simply means more for me, then!” And with that she snatched the the two strips from Celestia, placing them on her own plate.

“Sunset, if you are a vegetarian that is just fine. We’ll just make certain you take a good multivitamin to help make up for some of the nutrients you aren’t getting.” Celestia placed the half pill of vicodin next to Sunset’s glass of orange juice.

“You are not vegan, are you, Shimmer? That would be very difficult in this house.” Luna licked her lips, taking another large bite of bacon as Sunset placed the pill on her tongue and swallowed it down with a gulp of orange juice

“A vegan, ah no, not to worry. I’m not even really entirely vegetarian. I mean I like fish… shellfish shrimp things like that. I also like chicken it’s mostly just…”

Celestia hummed “Animals with hooves?”

Sunset hesitated and nodded. “Basically. But I mean if that's all there is to eat I’ll eat it!”

Celestia rested a hand on Sunset’s arm. “You don’t have to worry about that, alright? Luna and I will make certain that there is something you feel comfortable eating anytime you are hungry. Right, Luna?”

Luna nodded once before turning back to her own breakfast as Celestia sighed. “Sunset, does it bother you if Luna or I eat meat?” She blinked as Sunset shook her head rapidly.

“Noo, I mean I’m so used to it by now. I’m not going to look down on anyone for what they are eating… I mean not anymore…” Sunset trailed off as she slowly, politely, began to eat her breakfast. The only sounds were that of fork tines scraping the plates. After several minutes, Sunset carefully wiped her lips and finished her coffee. Her head felt a bit fuzzy and she sighed. Must be that pill…

“Sunset, would you like to stay out here in the living room while I do some paperwork?” Celestia asked, standing up and gathering everyone's dishes. Luna glanced at the time and frowned. “Yes, yes just go. I have this taken care of. Don’t forget to grab dinner from the chinese place on your way home, though.”

Luna nodded and headed for the door, grabbing a backpack that was laying by the couch. “I’ll have my phone on but only call if it’s urgent. Okay?”

Celestia waved her off. “Go have fun storming the castle.”

Luna nodded before taking one last look at Sunset, who was running a fingertip over the dining room table. She frowned, but sighed Give it a few days then talk to her… “Alright I’m off!”

Sunset looked up as the door slammed shut.

“Don’t mind Luna. Breakfast ran a bit long so she’s a bit late. I hope she doesn’t get another ticket…” Celestia finished filling the dishwasher and smiled. “Ah, you’ll get used to it. Luna always is gone Saturdays. I’ll let her tell you where she goes when she's ready, though.”

“Right…” Sunset frowned, fairly certain that time would never come as Celestia patted the large white couch.

“Come on over here. You are going to lay here today while I get some paperwork done. We have cable, netflix, and hulu. I’ll even allow R-rated movies.” Celestia chuckled as she grabbed her laptop and laid it on the short coffee table. “Only rule is that you aren’t allowed to get up off this couch unless it is to go to the bathroom. Agreed?”

“Alright, I can do that…” Sunset climbed onto the couch, laying down on her side and getting comfortable as Celestia handed her the remote before booting up her laptop and opening her email client.

“Huh…”

“What is it, Principal Celestia… I mean if it is any of my business.” Sunset curled up a bit. “Never mind I said anything…”

“No, no Sunset it’s fine. I just got an email from a construction company confirming that they’ll have the school repaired by Monday morning.” Celestia chewed her lip then sighed Of course…

Sunset opened her mouth to ask why that was odd before changing her mind and turning the TV to a teen drama she’d heard a lot of the students praise. She began to relax, listening to the TV and the clicky clack of Celestia typing until her eyes closed and she drifted back off.

Celestia concentrated on her paperwork until she heard a very familiar tune. She sighed, grabbing her cellphone from the table swiping it open to stop the ringtone Luna had insisted “And don’t it feel goo-” “Hello? Lu?”

“Hey, just calling you to let you know our niece was here this week she says she’ll be happy to come for dinner. But they are watching her fiance's sister while her parents out of town.”

“Shouldn’t be a large problem, last time we saw the girl she wouldn’t take her eyes off her book long enough to even say hi. Just make sure to get enough for her as well then.” Celestia moved her head from left to right, trying to get the kink out.

“No problem. Anyway I gotta go. 8-Bit finally stopped bitching over his end boss being destroyed in one shot.”

Celestia set her cell back down and sighed. Well at least that's two things taken care of… The day passed fairly quickly. Sunset woke up long enough to eat a peanut butter sandwich and drink a small glass of milk along with another half-pill before falling asleep again.

A few minutes before five, Celestia slowly roused the girl. “We’re having company for dinner tonight. Are you comfortable wearing what you have on?”

Sunset hesitated fingering the old jersey before nodding. “It’s comfortable… Unless I need to be dressed nicely? I don’t really have anything…”

Celestia laughed and shook her head. “Don’t worry, it’s just family coming to visit. Luna, my niece, her fiance, and his little sister who is staying with them for a few weeks.”

Sunset nodded and sat up. “Is there a hairbrush I could borrow though? I-I’d like to make the best appearance that I can…”

Celestia smiled “Of course. You can use mine in the bathroom. Right up the stairs and to the left.”

Sunset headed upstairs. She took her time brushing out her hair as she heard the door open and shut and some loud voices, including a man’s laughing. She took a deep breath before looking in the mirror. “You can do it Shimmer these are people you’ve never met before. They have no idea what you were just go downstairs and stay on your best behavior.” With a firm nod, she headed downstairs to see Principal Celestia tightly embracing a slightly shorter woman with pink, purple, and yellow hair.

The woman Celestia hugged had a laugh that sounded like a bell. Vice Principal Luna was carrying in bags of food, helped by a tall man with blue hair who was nudging her trying to get her to laugh. And to the side, looking as lost as Sunset felt was...

Princess Twilight???

Author's Note

Yes, I know pigs have trotters not hooves. Sunset will learn in time.

Chapter Five

Sunset’s eyes widened as she stood frozen at the top of the stairs. How is this possible? I saw Princess Twilight go through the portal with my own two eyes. This isn’t possible!

Luna looked up to see Sunset standing at the top of the stairs, as if frozen. “Come on, Shimmer. No one here is going to bite!”

Sunset focused on Twilight again and frowned. Something isn’t right… Her posture is different and is she wearing glasses?

Celestia walked up the stairs. She took Sunset’s hand with a gentle smile “It’s alright, Sunset. Come on down and eat dinner.”

“I...but Princess.” Sunset frowned at her inability to make a full sentence, before settling to just stand there, staring down at the cause of her fear.

Celestia turned to see what Sunset was looking at and blinked in surprise. “Huh, maybe that's why I wasn’t as surprised to meet the Princess as I should have been…”

“What… what do you mean Principal Celestia?” Sunset finally asked, her voice little more than a whisper.

Celestia opened her mouth to request Sunset not call her Principal while not at school, but stopped. Obviously calling me Principal separates me from my doppelganger… If that comforts her I refuse to take that away.

“I mean that this girl is the human Twilight Sparkle. She is my niece’s fiancee’s little sister. She’s a very intelligent if shy girl. Actually I think you both have a lot in common. Why don’t you go say hello?” Celestia saw Sunset turn away. She bit her lip and smiled sadly. “Sunset… if it goes badly, I’ll be right here for you. Alright?”

Sunset slumped before looking up to see Celestia’s kind eyes focused on her. I feel like a foal again… So defenseless “You promise?”

Celestia nodded. She placed a hand on the small of Sunset’s, back carefully avoiding Sunset’s wounds. She slowly urged the girl down the stairs, closer to the teenage girl who looked far too identical to Sunset’s executioner and savior.

“Twilight Sparkle? This is my foster daughter, Sunset Shimmer.” Celestia smiled gently as the teenager looked up from her phone which was connected to the internet.

“Hello,” Twilight said simply as Sunset lifted a hand in greeting.

“Um, hi, er what was that you were looking at?” Sunset peered over at Twilight’s phone, intrigued. “I mean if you don’t mind me asking.”

“Not really… I mean I doubt you’ll have any interest, but I was playing around with Rouche’s theorem.” Twilight shrugged, waiting for that to go right over the obviously jock girl’s head. Instead, Sunset seemed to light up.

“Oh! You mean the one which states that any two complex-valued functions f and g holomorphic inside some region K with closed contour. If |g(z)| < |f(z)| then f and f+g have the same number of zeros inside K. Where each zero is..”

“Counted as many times as it’s multiplicity exactly!” Twilight finished with a smile. She turned off her phone “Wow, you’re the first person I’ve ever met that understood that sort of theorem…”

Sunset smiled, shrugging a bit before wincing, having momentarily forgot her wounds. “I enjoy math... the more challenging the better.”

“Wow, I mean that’s great, I just never would have thought… I saw the jersey and just assumed…” Twilight wrung her hands nervously, looking away.

“No big, Twilight Sparkle. Actually the jersey is, ah, my Foster Mom’s. Normally I’m in a leather jacket and combat boots.” Sunset couldn’t help but smirk a touch at the surprise on Twilight’s face as she looked back at Sunset. “Yep, can’t really judge a book by its cover I guess. Huh?”

Twilight smiled and giggled, a strand of her hair coming loose from her bun to fall next to her face. “I guess you’re right. Do you think we could talk more after dinner? This… it’s so refreshing to have someone not just think I’m weird and nerdy.”

Sunset hesitated for a moment. What is wrong with me? Yesterday I would have destroyed this girl… but, I’m not her anymore… And I don’t want to be not anymore… Who am I now though… Am I anyone? She looked at the nervously-smiling Twilight and found herself smiling back. “Sure, Twilight Sparkle. I’d like that.” If I want to be someone I have to start somewhere… this is good I think.

Twilight’s eyes lit up behind her frames and a large grin covered her lips. “This will be so much fun, Sunset Shimmer. Oh, um… you can call me Twilight if you’d like to. My, um, friends do.”

...Friends… “Well, Twilight, you’ll have to call me Sunset, then!” Sunset grinned for the first time since… How long has it been since I was legitimately happy like this?

“If we are done with fun fun friend making time?” Luna stood in the doorway to the dining room, an eyebrow raised. Both teenagers blushed and nodded.“Well, good. Dinner is all set up in the kitchen so come make yourself a plate. And don’t worry, Shimmer. All beef and pork is on the stove so you can easily avoid them.”

Sunset nodded, opening her mouth to thank Luna, but before she could get the words out Luna had already turned and headed back into the kitchen. Talking to her is going to be harder then going back to school once my suspension is over…

“Why would you need to worry about beef and pork, Sunset? Are you a vegetarian?” Twilight cocked her head as they followed Celestia into the kitchen to get a plate.

“Not exactly. I’ll eat meat as long as the animal doesn’t have hooves.” Sunset explained, dishing up a little of everything which wasn’t on the stove.

Twilight humed under her breath. “You know, there are two types of hooves.”

Sunset focused her attention on Twilight as she poured some soda in a glass. She sat in the seat she had eaten breakfast in. “Two types?” Sunset asked, taking a bite of chicken fried rice as Twilight nodded, taking a seat next to Sunset.

“Oh, yes. First are Artiodactyls. Sheep, pigs, and cows fall into that category.” Twilight took a bite of rice and licked her lips. “Next are Perissodactyls, Horses, rhinos, and tapirs are part of that class. It really is quite interesting.”

Sunset frowned “Hmm, I suppose. Well I doubt I’ll be eating any of them any time soon.” She looked up to smile at Twilight. “But thanks for letting me know.”

“Sure! I’m always happy to share knowledge with people who appreciate it.” Twilight went back to her meal as Sunset listened to the adults talking and laughing, a small smile on her lips as she ate her dinner.

Celestia watched as the girls retreated to the living room to work on math that’d cause her head to spin if she even glanced at it. She shook her head and handed her niece a cup of coffee. “I hate to do this to you, Cadance…”

The younger woman rolled her eyes. “Auntie, you took in a badly abused girl who needs you with her for a few days… I get it. Trust me. Cinch will be fine without me for a few days.” She pursed her lips before taking a gulp of her coffee.

“Cadance, I know that look. What are you trying not to say?” Celestia smiled as her niece stammered for a few moments before glowering at her coffee cup. Poor dear has never been good at hiding her feelings from me.

“I… was just thinking that I hope the court removes Sunset’s parent’s rights to her… You know, to make her available for adoption?” Cadance said after a moment, keeping her voice down so not to be heard by the two giggling teenagers.

Celestia looked out into the living room to see Sunset and Twilight kneeling at the coffee table. Twilight wrote something down which made Sunset giggle and Celestia smile at the sound. Oh Cadance… if only you knew how much I feel the same as you…

Sunset stood on the porch and waved as Twilight got into the back of her brother’s car. “Bye, Twilight! As soon as I get my phone from storage I’ll text you the number!”

Twilight waved back, a huge smile on her face. “I’m counting on it. Night, Sunset!”

Sunset stayed outside and watched the car drive away until she felt a familiar touch. She looked up to see Celestia standing behind her. “That … thank you…”

“For what, Sunset?” Celestia asked, directing Sunset back inside the house where it was warm.

Sunset hesitated a moment before wrapping her arms around Celestia’s waist. “For being there for me, for not giving up on me, for helping me make my first real friend…” Sunset trailed off, knowing what she wanted to say but... What if she responds like Princess Celestia did? Could I take that? Sunset bit down on her lip hard until she tasted blood. She looked up, her eyes filled with tears. “For loving me as if you were my mom…”

Celestia froze in place, looking down as the tears fell silently down Sunset’s cheeks, her eyes hopeful but terrified. Celestia placed her lips against the top of Sunset’s head, not allowing herself to speak as tears fell from her own eyes, soaking her daughter’s head as Sunset clung to her crying.

Mom….

Author's Note

Do not ask me about the theorem... All I know is that there appears to be English wording in it.

Chapter Six

It didn’t take long to get Sunset settled in her bed. The girl was content to stay in Celestia’s jersey, but had finally agreed to borrow a pair of Luna’s boxers to sleep in. Celestia gathered Sunset’s skirt in her hands from where it had been dumped on the floor. The teen had cried herself almost to sleep, with the half-pill of vicodin finishing the job. Celestia ran her fingers through Sunset’s hair and tucked the quilt around. She flipped off the light, but kept the door open. She collapsed on the couch, setting Sunset’s skirt on the coffee table but being careful of the pages of writing? math? That Twilight and Sunset had been working on.

She allowed her head to fall back against the back of her couch, a small headache building just behind her eyes. Not telling Cadance the full truth is bothering me… but what can I say? I don’t know for sure if I can adopt her because she's from another dimension… Hell I’m not even sure if she is even really a teenager… what a mess. Celestia shivered as she felt something cold being pressed against her cheek. She opened her eyes to see Luna holding an ice cold beer in one hand and pressing another to Celestia’s cheek.

“You looked like you needed one.” Luna shrugged, pulling the can away from her older sister’s cheek and handing it to her. She dropped next to Celestia, opened her can and took a large swig.

Celestia opened her own can and took a small gulp. She was normally a wine drinker, but every now and then a beer was nice. “Thanks Lu… Sunset… I think she had a bit of a breakthrough tonight.”

Luna simply raised an eyebrow, waiting for Celestia to continue.

“I think she wants to ask me to be her Mom, Lu. For me to adopt her.” Celestia blurted it out before taking a large gulp of the sour drink.

Luna pursed her lips together, running her fingertips against the denim covering her legs.“Do you want to?”

Celestia turned to see Luna smiling gently at her. “I mean, you’re going to become known for it at this rate. Adopting traumatised teenagers that is. First me… now Sunset…”

“Luna, I have never regretted adopting you!” Celestia set her beer down before gripping Luna’s shoulders and giving her a firm shake. “Yes, things were… difficult, but I’ve never thought about ‘what if!’. I could have never let you be taken from me and… and I feel the same for Sunset…” Celestia wrapped her arms around Luna, trembling as her little sister wrapped her arms around her chest. “I already love her so very much Luna… As if she was my own flesh and blood. Thinking about losing her makes my stomach turn.”

Luna nuzzled into the crook of Celestia’s neck, humming gently before pulling back and wiping away Celestia’s tears with her fingertip. “If that's how you feel, then we should act now to keep her here. Coulson does good work, but without a case with Child protective Services or a sympathetic judge…” Luna grinned. “Lucky for you though you have the ears of both. So I would suggest calling your old college roomie and asking her to stop by. We still have plenty of leftovers that's sure to tempt her.”

Celestia considered for a moment before pulling her phone from out of her pocket. She unlocked the phone and ran down her list of contacts before tapping one of them and bringing the phone to her ear. She patiently listened as two rings passed by before a voice picked up.

“Hello? This is Chrysalis…”

Celestia smiled. “Hey, Chryssy. It’s Tia. I hope I’m not interrupting anything?”

A pause, then a laugh. “Nah, I was just considering a late dinner. Just got out of the office. I love my job but I swear sometimes I feel I'm the only competent gal in the office, stuck with a bunch of drones. I gotta tell them what to do every five minutes! So, what’s up? You haven’t called just to chat in basically forever.”

“Yeah, sorry about that. You wouldn’t believe how much of my life is taken up by teenagers these days. And, actually… I didn’t just call to chat. I need help… Luna says there is leftover chinese food and beer if you can get here tonight.” Celestia smiled as Luna rolled her eyes.

“Tia, you aren’t hiding a runaway or something are you?” When Celestia didn’t reply, Chrysalis sighed. “Right… okay I’ll be there. Was the kid physically abused?”

“Wh-what do you mean by that?” Celestia frowned as she set her half-empty can back down.

“Exactly what I said. Pictures are worth a thousand words, Tia honey. And if there are bruises on the kid I need pictures. Trust me it’ll help your case. And it’ll make a more believable case file.”

Celestia frowned, but considered Chrysalis’ words. “There are bruises on her arms and face. She also has stitches and bruises on her back.”

Celestia could hear the scratching of a pen on paper. “Alright, I’m assuming no hospital records for the stitching, though? One of your favors?”

“Something like that…” Celestia hesitantly replied as she heard Chrysalis sigh.

“Tia, I love you, honey. But you make my job so very difficult. I’ll be there in ten. I’ll take the charger. It’s got more room for my stuff.” The click of Chrysalis hanging up filled Celestia’s ear.

“Heat up the leftovers and get a few of the good beers out, Lu. Chryssy is on her way.”

Luna opened up the door as soon as she heard the sound of Chryssy’s charger. She waited, arms, crossed as the black-skinned woman walked up the drive with a backpack slung over one shoulder.

“Hey Squirt! Been awhile. How are you doing?” Chrysalis grinned, mussing up Luna’s hair and causing the woman to frown and take a step back.

“How many times do I have to ask you not to call me ‘squirt’ before it sinks into the thick head of yours? And I’m fine. I work with Tia as her Vice Principal, and I earned my degree last year… Come on in. Food and beer is in the kitchen, Tia is on the couch panicking, and the kid is passed out in her room.”

Chrysalis sighed, looking into the house. “Before I go in, Luna, talk to me. What’s going on with this kid? Celestia isn’t one to just take in any runaway.”

Luna scratched at her arm before frowning. “Sunset Shimmer isn’t just any runaway… She is so broken. Sometimes when I’m watching her, she almost appears to shut down, as if life itself is a play or movie she’s being forced to be part of… She reminds me of how I was.”

Chrysalis nodded and walked in. She dumped her backpack on the couch, gave Celestia a quick hug, then headed into the kitchen. She loaded down her plate and opened a beer. As she ate and drank she took a look at the manilla folder Celestia had given her. Everything in it looked legit. Except maybe a bit too perfect.

“Alright, Tia. If you want my help let’s hear the story the real story.” Chrysalis saw Luna and Celestia exchange a glance and grimaced. I sense I’m about to regret asking that.

An hour later Chrysalis stared down at her now-empty plate, frowning. Yep, I regret having asked… “So… Sunset is an alien pony from another dimension who turned into a worse she demon than I was in college and may or may not be a minor?”

Celestia nodded. “Basically, yes. And as I understand it she’ll be stuck in our world for another two and a half years.”

“And at the very least in the body of a minor, I see the birth certificate created for her puts her at fifteen years, five months old. Alright I can work with this. But I’ll need those pictures tomorrow. She doesn’t need to be nude and her eyes will be blacked out. Just… trust me. Anyone who sees the case file I’m planning wouldn’t dream of taking her away from your care.” Chrysalis cracked her neck. I’m going to be up all night writing this up… better pick up coffee and energy drinks on the way home. “Just text me the pictures and once the case file is ready I’ll have it sent to you. Luckily you’re still in the system as a foster parent. Anyway I better get home.” She stood up and smiled at Celestia. “When the kid is feeling up to it, I’m looking forward to meeting her.”

Celestia smiled, blinking back a new set of tears. “Of course… Thank you so much, Chryssy. You are such a lifesaver.”

“Eh, no big, after all you fed me and gave me beer. Keeping a helpless kid somewhere she's safe is the least I can do. Now you and the squirt should head to bed yourselves.” She grabbed her bag. Putting away her notes and Sunset’s file, she headed for the door, opening and shutting it with a click. You may have tried to hide it from me, Tia, but I can see it in your eyes. You’re already that girl’s mom. Let me do my job and make it legal. She took out her cell and texted a familiar number.

Dan, Tia will be contacting you soon. I guarantee it. Chrys.

Chapter Seven

Sunset woke up, the sun shining in her eyes, and smiled. She was finally beginning to feel better. At least her back didn’t hurt so much. She turned onto her back with a small hiss of pain, but sighed. Not too bad… I wonder what the plan for today is… Her thoughts trailed off as she realized that it was Monday morning. A cold sweat started forming on her forehead as she swallowed hard. Monday… That means they’ll be going back to school… What if Vice Principal Luna never told M-Principal Celestia that I was suspended? What if she expects me to be in class? Sunset moaned, drawing her knees up to her chest while a small sob escaped her mouth. I’m alone… I don’t want to be alone! She chanced a look at her alarm clock to see that it was already eight A.M. With a louder cry she curled more in on herself, wrapping her arms tightly around herself. Please hurry home! Please!

Celestia sat at the bar, looking over the news on her phone. She lazily pursued the article while sipping her coffee. She stretched her back with a small pop. It was interesting to still be home this late on a school day. She shook her head as she remembered yesterday. It had been a fairly sedate affair, at least after she had taken the pictures of Sunset. She hadn’t realized just how hurt the teen was until she was taking exact pictures of the lacerations and bruises covering her entire body. After that, Sunset was basically allowed to watch what she wanted on TV and sleep. Stubbornly though she wouldn’t release the jersey. Is it becoming her security blanket? Is that even healthy at her age? Celestia shook her head with a small sigh. I’ll need to leave a call for Doctor Pure Thought… Celestia blinked as something broke through her sleep and too little caffeine daze. A loud cry. Celestia’s eyes widened as she stood up. Fuck! No One told Sunset what was going on! Remembering Luna’s reaction the first time Celestia tried to leave her to attend classes, Celestia grabbed her robe and sprinted for Sunset’s room to see a lump under the dark blue comforter trembling Oh Sunset…

“Sunset? Sunset it’s alright…” Celestia moved to the bed and sat on the edge. She placed her hand on what she thought was Sunset’s shoulder. At the touch Sunset froze. “Sunset?”

The comforter was flung away. Sunset latched onto Celestia, her eyes wild. “Mommy!” She buried her face into her chest. Her hold was uncompromising as she began to sob, slowly soaking Celestia’s robe.

Celestia froze in place, her eyes wide as she wrapped her arms around the crying girl. Her crying girl. “It’s alright, Sunset. I’m here… you’re safe…” Celestia was well aware Sunset had no idea what she was saying, but she continued speaking affirmatives of Sunset’s safety in a calm, soothing tone, basically on auto-pilot as her brain attempted to recover from the blonde calling her ‘Mommy’. Mom… Mom I think I was ready for… Or Mother… but Mommy? From a teenager? Oh Sunset… Oh my poor girl…

Sunset’s grip on Celestia slowly loosened and her tears slowed. “I...I’m sorry I just thought…”

“That I left? Oh, Sunset, no. I’m here until you are ready for me to leave. I arranged with Cadance and Superintendent Faust that Cadance be allowed to take my place as principal of Canterlot High for a few days or until you are ready to return to school.” Celestia smiled gently, wiping the tears from Sunset’s cheeks. “She is the dean of our rival school, Crystal Prep, but was pleased to stand in for me. Now… Do you want breakfast or a shower first?”

Sunset licked her lips. It was true that she was filthy. She hadn’t bathed since the day of the fall formal after gym class. She lifted her arm and gave a small sniff, wrinkling her nose at the smell. “Oh geez… I must look horrible… I bet I have stuff in my ma-hair.”

Celestia smiled. “I guess that was a yes to the shower, hmm? Come on, you can use my shower.” She stood up and led Sunset from her room. Sunset’s hand gripped tightly to her robe as Celestia walked upstairs. “Ignore the kid’s shampoos, they are Luna’s.” Celestia shook her head “Just leave your clothes in the laundry basket and I’ll get them in the washer.”

Sunset nodded, taking in the bathroom. It was a lot nicer than the ones at the school. The shower had an actual door, not just a flimsy curtain! She heard the door click closed behind her, and her heart raced as she took a deep breath and struggled to calm down. “It’s alright Sunset, she’s just giving you your privacy…” What is wrong with me… Even when Princess Celestia first choose me as her student I wasn’t this needy. And I surely never called her… Sunset’s face paled as the scene ran through her head. Oh no… I didn’t? I...I did didn't I. I called Principal Celestia Mommy and I meant it! What am I, a little foal? A small part of her mind felt warm as she remembered how Celestia had cradled her and whispered nice words to her. Don’t think about that now… Sunset reached into the shower and turned on the hot water, letting it run for a few moments before stepping under the spray and closing the door. Her shoulders quickly untensed as she relaxed in the hot water.

Celestia prepared a quick breakfast of oatmeal and juice for Sunset to eat once she came downstairs. She had dug into the clothes she and Luna had back when they were teens and had discovered a pair of jeans and a black hoodie she thought would fit Sunset well enough. She left them on the sink, along with a clean pair of panties. Though she hadn’t been able to find a bra in any of Sunset’s possessions, and the panties as they were, looked closer to boy briefs. Celestia shook her head as she sipped her coffee, adding lingerie shopping to the list for the day. We’re going to be buying a lot more than I first planned on and Sunset won’t be able to help carry much if any of it. Celestia chewed her lip as she played with her phone, a habit she in part blamed on her students. So what do I do? Break this trip into two or more? That makes it far more likely that one of Sunset’s classmates would see her, or worse see me… No then. I could call a friend to help… Celestia cocked her head. Chrissy had said that she’d like to meet Sunset after all. She hit the right buttons and brought the phone to her ear.

“Canterlot Child Protective Agency, this is Chrysalis Mariposa. How may I help you?”

Celestia sighed. Damn, if she’s at work… “Hey Chryssy, it’s Tia, sorry to call and bother you at work.”

“Is this about the kid? I got those pictures, Tia. When you said she was bruised...” Chrysalis’s voice sighed over the line. “Anyway, don’t worry about calling me at work. Right now is a good time. I refuse to activate the curse by saying the word. So what’s up?”

“Well, you were right. It’s about Sunset, She only has two outfits and one of the tee shirts had to be cut off of her back. She’s been wearing my jersey from school, but she needs clothes. I was thinking that I’d take her to the Crystal Mall, but I need some help. Because of Sunset’s injuries I don’t want her carrying anything too heavy and there are several things she needs in addition to the clothes.” Celestia took out a notebook and began to make a list.

“Such as?”

“Well the school supplies Luna and I found were half-broken so… She needs basically all new school things. I want to put her on Luna and my phone plan, get her a laptop to encourage her school work and social life. Maybe some things to decorate her room?” Celestia heard the water shut off and smiled. Sunset had taken her time, I hope that means she's feeling safe.

“Slow down just a bit, Tia. I think those are all good ideas. But let’s try to keep this trip as streamlined as we can. Sunset may not feel safe out and about yet and cling to you as her protection. With younger children that is fine and understandable but I dread what would happen if one of Sunset’s classmates saw. So let's go just planning to get the clothes and go from there depending on Sunset’s readiness.” Chrysalis’s soft voice caused Celestia’s shoulders to relax.

“Anyone ever tell you that you are very good at getting into someone’s brain?” Celestia shook her head. “Alright. Meet you at the fountain in about an hour?”

“That would be fine Tia, see you both soon.” Chrysalis hung up.

Celestia put her phone down to see Sunset slowly come into the kitchen dressed in the jeans and hoodie. Celestia clicked her tongue. The jeans were longer than she thought they’d be, bunching up at Sunset’s ankles. The hoodie was the same, though Sunset didn’t seem to mind the sleeves covering her hands. She sat at the table.

“May I have some raisins and cinnamon and sugar in my oatmeal, Mo-Principal Celestia?” Sunset looked up, a strand of soaking wet hair falling over her right eye.

Celestia got the shaker and a box of raisins before sitting down beside Sunset. “Sunset, we need to talk about a few things.” Her heart cracked at the look in Sunset’s eyes as the girl latched her fingers around Celestia’s wrist.

“Please don’t kick me out! Did I do something wrong? I...I’m sorry Mommy…” Sunset trembled a bit, a whimper escaping as she remembered being thrown out before. Stop it Sunset… This didn’t work last time!

“Shh,” Celestia cooed, bringing Sunset’s head to her chest. I have to find out what is in that head of hers. This can’t just be from the Fall Formal… “I’m not kicking you out… You have a room here, remember? And a spot at this table. This is your home…” She gently stroked the girl’s wet hair. “I wanted to tell you that I thought we should go to the mall today. You need new clothes. I’m afraid even as teenagers Luna and I were fairly tall.” She smiled as Sunset’s trembling slowly dissipated. “The other thing I thought we should discuss is that you’ve called me Mommy twice today.” She felt Sunset freeze against her and kept stroking her hair.

“I-I have haven’t I?” Sunset finally breathed out in little more than a whisper.

“Yes, both times when you were very scared… Sunset honey… I think you need some help. I have an… old friend who is a counselor, if you’d like to talk with her?” Celestia heard Sunset sniffle. “I don't mean that I think you are crazy! You are just a very hurt little girl. I had to talk to her when I was your age and Luna…” She shook her head. “That is for Luna to tell you.”

“I...maybe… Can I think about it?” Sunset answered after a few moments of silence.

“Of course. But this other thing, calling me Mommy. Sunset… Do you want me to be your Mom?” Celestia winced silently. She had told herself she needed to wait for Sunset to ask. Stupid Celestia… Class act…

“Yes! Please y-you’ve been so kind to me! So understanding!” Sunset pulled back to look up into Celestia’s eyes. “Even when I was the worst kid in your school you still didn’t give up on me! I turned into a giant demon and di-did something.” She closes her eyes, a flash of pain on her face before she shook her head. “Even after whatever I did you found me! You found me and saved my life you...I think you love me and...and I’m not exactly sure what love feels like but I think this is it… Please be my Mom!”

Celestia couldn’t help the goofy grin on her lips as she nodded, holding Sunset tight against her as they cried, having finally found each other.

I have a Mom…

Sunset, I promise I’ll be the best Mom I can be.

Chapter Eight

Celestia held Sunset to her chest, stroking the back of her head and focused on nothing except her girl. She didn’t know how long she had been in that position, cradling Sunset to her, but she found she did not care.

“At first I was afraid… I was petrified.”

Celestia paused stroking Sunset’s head and grabbed her phone from the dining room table, expertly unlocking it and answering. “Chryssy?”

“Tia? Where are you? Is everything okay? I mean I’m by the fountain waiting, but I don’t see you or the kid.” The sound of the fountain was easy enough for Celestia to hear.

Celestia glanced over at the microwave. he winced as she realized she and Sunset had been holding tight to one another for almost an entire hour. “Sorry, Chryssy. We’ll be there soon. Sunset and I both just had a big break through, but I’ll tell you about it when we get there.”

“Alright. I’ll see you soon, then.” Chrysalis hung up.

Celestia sighed and set her phone back on the table before she kissed Sunset’s forehead “Honey? We need to get going. We’re going to go get you some new clothes.”

Sunset looked up, her eyes puzzled for a moment before she remembered. “Th-thats right. I forgot. I’m sorry Prin-Mom.” She smiled nervously as Celestia smiled back. “I didn’t know we were meeting one of your friends though… Is she nice? Oh, no. My face must look awful… May I go wash my face real quick?”

“She is very nice and of course you can wash your face, honey. I need to go get some clothes on myself. Go wash your face and meet me in the living room as soon as you are ready.” Celestia stood up at the same time Sunset did. oth headed upstairs, Sunset taking the first door. Celestia, meanwhile, opened the door to her room. Luckily her clothes were already laid out on her bed and ready to pull on.

Once both Celestia and Sunset were back downstairs, it didn’t take but a few moments for them to be on their way. Sunset stared out the window, watching the scenery go by.

“Do you have a radio station you like to listen to, Sunset?”

Sunset blinked and turned to Celestia. “Huh? Oh well, I never really listened to much music… There wasn’t exactly a radio in the shed.”

“True… Well fiddle with the dial until you find something. We’ve got about a ten-minute drive.” Celestia glanced over, peering over her sunglasses. “Enough for one or two songs.”

Sunset nodded and began fiddling with the dial, finally pausing as she heard a singer that sounded a lot like Applejack. She stopped, listened to the lyrics, and smiled.

“I’ll know that it’s worth all the dues I paid. When I can write to you and say…”

Sunset listened to the rest of the song as she glanced at Celestia out of the corner of her eyes. Will I ever be able to say that myself? That the dues I’ve paid are worth it… maybe

“We’re here.” Celestia looked over at Sunset after she parked the van. “Have you ever been to a mall before?” She frowned as Sunset shook her head while turning off the radio.

“Malls aren’t a thing in Equestria., More likely than not towns have open air markets. I’ve heard that some towns were planning to build grocery stores, but back when I left that was just a rumor…” She unclipped her belt with a bit of clumsiness. It was obvious that this was not a motion she was capable of without thought. “Other than that, how would I have gotten to a mall as a human? I never had friends to take me.”

Celestia frowned as she raised her sunglasses to rest on the top of her head. “I suppose I never thought of any of that. I guess Chryssy was right about a quick trip being the best choice for your first time. We’ll concentrate on finding you a few changes of clothes today and, depending on how you’re doing, we’ll either keep going or head for home. Okay? Everything is going to be according to your comfort level.”

Sunset pulled at the string on her hoodie and nodded, “I understand, but I’ve heard lots of girls chat about the mall. It...it always sounded amazing. Is it?”

“Well, speaking as a girl who spent many of her days roaming the mall when I was a teen… I think so. However, it is a lot to take the first time you experience it. So… just stay with me and relax.” Celestia smiled, placing a hand on Sunset’s shoulder and squeezing lightly before she got out of the driver’s seat.

Sunset followed a moment later, closing the door behind her. She walked over to Celestia just as she locked the door and guided her attention to the giant white building in front of them. Sunset stared, her eyes widening.

“It’s as big as the palace… Not as tall but…” She trailed off as they slowly walked in the front doors to see a giant marble fountain in front of them. Sitting on the edge of the fountain was a tall, blacked skinned woman drinking coffee and messing with her phone. Dark green hair fell into her eyes, which she seemingly ignored until she glanced up, waved and walked towards them.

“Wow, Tia. You are as bad about time as you were back in College! And this must be the kid.” She turned to Sunset and looked her up and down, nodding as she silently observed things a layperson would miss. The small tremor that Sunset just couldn’t shake. How she stood an appropriate measure away from Celestia but her eyes kept darting to make sure the older woman was still close by. How the hood was up over her head, protecting her from the outside.

“Sunset Shimmer, right? You seem to be doing pretty well. I’m Chrysalis Mariposa. Your, ah, foster mom and I were roommates in College. And after we stopped trying to kill each other we became really good friends. I’m the head of Canterlot’s Child Protective Services.” She saw Sunset’s eyes widen and leaned in to whisper into her ear. “Don’t worry, little unicorn. Your secret is safe.” She pulled back, partially enjoying the teenager silently stammering. “Well then! I think we’re here for clothes, right? I’m thinking ‘Always 18’ would be the best place to start. Shall we?”

As Chrysalis walked towards the store, Sunset turned to Celestia. “Y-you told her? What if she tries to take me! You said you'd protect me…” Her voice came out just barely louder than a whisper, betrayal clear.

“You misunderstand, Sunset,” Celestia said, frantically lifting Sunset’s chin to look into eyes already wet with unshed tears. “Sunset, I called her so that she could help us… She made a case for you. No one can take you from me now. Everything is legal… I...I could never dream of hurting or betraying you. I’m so sorry I didn’t tell you.”

Sunset hesitated and looked down before sniffling “I...I understand. I’m sorry… I’m so used to…” She trailed off as Celestia gently hugged her.

“It’s okay. I’m sorry, too. Now let’s try to catch up, okay?” Celestia smiled as Sunset squeezed back and nodded. It didn’t take long for them to catch up with Chrysalis, who was grinning.

“Well, kid, this is all on you, now. Go crazy!”

After an hour or so, Sunset had chosen several full outfits and accepted a bra fitting, even as she blushed like mad. Celestia smiled, taking the bags full of clothes from the cashier and not even blinking at the price. She turned to Sunset as they walked out.

“How are you doing? Do you want to keep going?” Celestia asked. She blinked as she noticed Sunset wasn’t beside her. “Sunset?”

“No worries, Tia. She’s over there.” Chrysalis nodded towards the nearby music store where the hoodie-wearing teen was looking through the window. Her nose was pressed against the window like a small child.

Celestia smiled and walked over. “Sunset, what is it you are looking at?” She looked through the window to see a red and gold guitar and smiled. “Do you play?”

“I used to… Back before… I don’t know if I can with hands, but I’d love to find out.” Sunset continued staring, the want in her voice apparent. It made Celestia smile.

“Come on, let's go and get it then. Luna won’t have any reason to complain with all the stuff in her room.” Celestia beamed as Sunset looked up at her and smiled.

Fifteen minutes later they walked out of the music store, Celestia holding a new bag of strings, guitar pics, and a few beginner music books. Sunset followed behind her, cradling the guitar case to her chest and her chosen guitar safely within.

“I think that is enough shopping for today. What do you think?” Celestia glanced back to see Sunset nod as Chrysalis reappeared with an electronics bag. “Where did you go?”

“Eh, just went next door to pick the kid up a few things she’ll need. It’s about three PMnow, so students are gonna be arriving pretty soon.” Chrysalis handed the bag to Celestia. “This was fun. Maybe we can do something again, soon? What do you think, kid?”

Sunset looked up and smiled, her hood falling back and showing her still-bruised face. “I think that would be great, A-aunt Chrysalis.” She looked nervous, but Chrysalis just laughed.

“Yeah, well give me a call!” Chrysalis walked away, lifting her hand as she merged into the throng of shoppers.

“She's kinda…” Sunset started as Celestia shook her head.

“Weird? Yeah, I know. She always has been. Well, let's head home. I was thinking fish for dinner.” Celestia smiled as Sunset walked beside her, a bright smile on her face.

Neither of them noticed the two women watching as they walked out. The younger touched her earlobe. “Everything looks good, DC. We’re on our way back.”

Interlude-1

“Fluttershy! Fluttershy, over here!” Fluttershy turned, brushing a stray strand of pink hair from her eyes. She smiled and waved as Pinkie Pie raced over to hug her tightly, followed by a far more sedate Rarity.

“There you are, darling. I thought we were going to meet by the soccer field this morning?” Rarity cocked her head slightly as Pinkie Pie released Fluttershy, allowing the slight girl to breathe.

“I-I know I just… was hoping to be here when…” Fluttershy faded off. She looked at her hands, almost scared to finish her thought.

Rarity pursed her lips together and nodded. “You were hoping to find Sunset Shimmer before anyone else could. Is that right?”

A simple nod was Rarity’s answer as Fluttershy lay her hand on the statue base. “We made a promise…”

“You are right, darling. We did promise the Princess. Although I still want an apology for that whole deal with the Spring Fling.” Rarity steamed for a moment before tossing her hair. “But, that can wait until later of course. Now, are you certain she’ll be here?”

Fluttershy nodded again. “I get here really early on Wednesday, you know, to pass out flyers. And even with how early I get here Sunset is always here before me…”

“Except not today? That is sooo weird! I wonder if It’s connected to the school being completely back to normal?” Pinkie bounced from foot to foot at she pointed at where Sunset had ripped the doors off the school. But, there they were, back and good as new.

“Hooey, and don’t that just beat all? Ah was half x’pecting we’d be sent back home today. Why ah even had AB stay home.” Applejack whistled as she walked over to join her friends. “RD will be here soon. She’s just finishin’ an early morning soccer practice.”

“Do you have any idea how such damage could be repaired so quickly? I mean heavens, it’s only been two full days and those were the weekend. Don’t most construction firms mostly work only on weekdays?” Rarity walked over to where Twilight had helped Sunset up out of the crater. There wasn’t even an indication that it had been there. “How peculiar… Fluttershy, darling, you live nearby don’t you. Did you see anything unusual on any of your walks to visit your animal friends?”

Fluttershy twirled a lock of her hair as she thought. Finally she nodded. “Yes. I did see something a little odd… Um on Sunday morning the road was closed off. It looked like normal road closure at first but…”

“But what, sugarcube? Don’t be afraid. We’re all your friends, after all.” Applejack smiled, laying a gentle hand on her shoulder and causing Fluttershy to smile.

“Y-you’re right. Alright, I crept a bit closer just because, well I was curious. I snuck through one of the forest paths I know, and that's when I saw them. A bunch of men… maybe ten or fifteen of them. They were all wearing black suits and sunglasses. They also had those bluetooth radios in their ears… They were all around this part of the school… A-and like five of them were over there.” Fluttershy pointed over at the summer storage unit. “Then I thought one of them had seen me, so I ran away and hid under my bed until late last night.”

“Guys in suits, really?” Rainbow Dash walked over to them, still in her soccer uniform and a towel over her shoulders. “Yeesh! I was so intent on finding you guys that I skipped my shower. So, where's Shimmer? I mean we’re supposed to try and play nice with her, right? Princess’ order?” Rainbow smirked, then blinked. “Whoa. They really worked fast at-hey Pinkie, where are you going?”

Pinkie was already halfway to the storage shed when she turned around. “Well, Fluttershy said A bunch of those men in suits were by the storage shed, right?” She saw a few nods from her friends and grinned. “So, since we’re all here, and Shimmy isn’t, maybe those guys have something to do with it! And since so many of them were over here, Shimmy has to be involved. Hurry up!”

After a moment, the other girls shrugged and joined Pinkie at the storage shed. They watched as she pulled a bobby pin from her hair and worked it into the lock, her tongue poking out of her mouth, until finally they door swung open.

“How did you…?” Rainbow Dash started, then held up a hand. “No, never mind. I don’t want to know.” She wrinkled her nose. “Oh, jeeze! I’d know that smell anywhere. That is bleach and a bunch of it!”

“Bleach? Who would use bleach in the storage shed and why?” Rarity asked as she took a small sniff and covered her nose. “Oh, my. I don’t even use this much when I bleach fabric!”

“Nah, this much is used only to clean up something that people don’t want found.” Applejack frowned. She crossed arms, smell not bothering her. “Like blood.”

“Blood? Wh-why would there be blood in here?” Fluttershy turned to, Applejack her eyes wide. “Do you think someone was hurting some poor animals here?”

“Sure do, if you consider a unicorn a poor animal,” Applejack noted, glancing over as Rainbow Dash’s eyes widened

“Oh my gosh! Those men in suits you saw, Fluttershy, they must be government agents like from ET! Shimmer must have tried to run and they cornered her here and…”

Fluttershy’s eyes widened. “No! We promised the princess! We have to go help her!”

Rainbow Dash wrapped an arm around Fluttershy and grinned. “Don’t you worry for even a second. Here's what we’re gonna do. We’re gonna skip class, track down these men in suits, beat em with those powers Sparkle gave us and bring Shimmer back!”

“Or… you could simply ask someone who might know where Miss Shimmer is. Like, oh, possibly me?”

As one, the five teenagers slowly turned around to see Vice Principal Luna standing there with her arms crossed and a raised eyebrow. “Because I do know where Miss Shimmer is. She is at home. I suspended her along with Snips and Snails for a week. Now I suggest you five head to class.” She paused consideringly. “Except you, Miss Dash. I want you to come with me.”

Rainbow Dash gulped. She glanced at her friends as Pinkie sadly waved to her.

“Now, Miss Dash!” Luna’s voice brooked no argument. Rainbow quickly jogged after her vice-principal as she walked into the school and down the hall, only pausing as she heard a muffled yelp from her sister’s office. Rolling her eyes in a manner she hoped would not be observed, she opened the door to see her niece on the floor She was rubbing her head, a drawer full of papers on the floor beside her. Luna winced as she walked in and helped the young woman up.

“Are you alright?” Luna asked, before bending down to put Celestia’s drawer back in place.

“I’ll be fine, Auntie. Ouch! I should have remembered Auntie Celestia’s obsession with her odd filling...Don’t worry. I won’t make that mistake again.” She reached into her bag and pulled out a laptop with the Shadow Bolt logo. “This should work…”

“Wait a minute, that's the-!” Rainbow Dash quickly closed her mouth as she realised what she had heard. “Heh, heh, I mean, um, hi?”

Luna rubbed her forehead. “Miss Dash, I’d like you to meet Mi Amore Cadenza. She is my niece, and the Dean at Crystal Prep. I’m sure you’ll see much of one another over this week.”

Cadance looked up with a smile. “Dean Cadance is fine. Don’t worry. I’m just here as a favor for my Aunt Celestia. Nothing I learn here will be used against any of you.” She rolled her eyes. “Such a foolish practice.” She smiled. “I hope we can get along at least while I’m here, Miss... Dash, was it?”

“Uh, yeah, Rainbow Dash. And sure, that's cool. But where is Principal Celestia?” Rainbow rubbed the back of her head.

Cadance glanced over to Luna, who sighed.“Come on into my office, Miss Dash. Cadenza, do be careful, hmm?”

Cadance blushed and nodded. Luna led Rainbow Dash to her office, hand on her shoulder. Luna sat behind her desk. She nodded to Rainbow Dash, who closed the door and took her very familiar seat.

“So uh… Have you redecorated?” Rainbow grinned nervously

“Rainbow Dash, I am taking a huge risk in informing you of any of this. However, the Princess did refer to you as Loyalty, did she not?” Luna asked, folding her hands on top of her desk as Rainbow squirmed.

“Uh, well, yeah. That’s me, Loyalty! I’d never leave a friend hanging!”

“And is Miss Shimmer a friend?” Luna asked, watching as Rainbow seemed to slump in her seat.

“I...I don’t know. Sparkle… She asked us to take care of her, you know? And Sparkle she… she really did a lot. I mean look at the school today! I bet it’ll be like you’d never imagine! She changed us! She...changed me. Even if I never see her again, she’ll be my best friend for life.” She frowned “But Shimmer… Shimmer almost destroyed the greatest friendships I ever had.” Rainbow thrust her hands into the air. “Sometimes I don’t know what to do!”

Luna smiled softly “But?” She gently urged the teenager.

“But...I wanna try… I mean… Sparkle seemed to think she was worth the trust...So yeah. Shimmer may not be my friend… yet, but I won’t leave her hanging.” Rainbow finally finished with a smile. “Everyone deserves a second chance, right?”

Luna nodded. She slid a piece of paper over to Rainbow Dash. “Here you are, Miss Dash.”

“Uh? What’s this? It looks like an address?” Rainbow Dash read the the address a few times in her head, wondering if she’d ever seen it before. Nope, not familiar.

“That is the address to Celestia and my home. It is also where Miss Shimmer is staying. I want you to gather Miss Shimmer’s homework each day and bring it to her during her suspension. She’d be devastated if her GPA fell due to this week.”

Rainbow’s eyes widened as she took another look at the address.

“I hope I do not have to say this, but this is very personal information I am trusting you with Miss Dash. Were any other student to learn the location of my home I would be very cross. Am I clear?”

Rainbow nodded. She shoved the paper into her short’s pocket. “Yes, Ma’am! Crystal!”

“Good. I trust you, Miss Dash. Do not give me reason to regret doing so.” Luna paused, then signed her name to a pass. “Give this to your homeroom teacher. Go and have your shower before you head there.” Luna smiled gently as she handed the pass over.

“Thanks, Vice-Principal Luna. I was kinda worried about stinking until lunch.” Rainbow took the pass thankfully.

“Mmm, I do understand. Celestia played soccer while we were in school. Now go on, Miss Dash. That pass is only good for your homeroom, after all.”

She stood up and opened the door to watch Rainbow hurry down the hallway. She leaned against the door frame. “Prove the Princess true, Miss Dash. I know you can.” Luna shook her head and headed back into her office. It was going to be a long day.

Chapter Nine

Sunset sat on the couch, her fingertips lightly rubbed against the denim of her brand new jeans. For the first time in a very long time, she felt safe, almost. The tv was on but Sunset honestly had no real idea what was on. It was only background noise to the multiple thoughts fighting for supremacy in her mind. It was only the sound of the doorbell that pulled her from her thoughts. She looked over to the kitchen where Pri-Mom was working on her laptop at the bar. “Um, the doorbell?”

“Would you be able to answer it Sunset? Don’t worry, hardly anyone knows where we live.” Celestia’s gentle voice called back.

With a soft sigh and painful wince, Sunset got up off the couch and walked over to the front door. For a split moment, she considered checking the peephole but mentally gave herself a shake. Mom is right, probably one of Mom’s friends… A moment later she was regretting not looking.

Rainbow Dash stood in front of the large two-story home in front of her once again checking the address that Vice Principal Luna had given her. Come on Dash, it’s just Shimmer… Man up! With a firm nod the teenager walked up to the front door and rang the doorbell. She waited a few moments and was reaching to press the button again when the door opened to reveal a teenager wearing a pair of jeans and a baggy hoodie, the hood up covering their hair and casting a shadow over their face. For a moment Rainbow questioned if she had the address right when the teenager spoke. “Rainbow Dash?”

Rainbow almost winced she had been expecting the brash voice of the Queen Bitch of Canterlot High. Not… whoever this was. Damn, I don’t think I ever expected her to sound so…I dunno broken? She cleared her throat “Uh, hey Shimmer, uh Vice Principal Luna asked me to bring you your homework…For you know your grades not to fall?”

“...Right, my grades. I-” Sunset shook her head and cleared her throat “Would you like to come in?” She finished after a moment of hesitation. If Vi-Aunt Luna gave her our address she must have trust in her, the least I can do is offer her the same. She backed out of the doorway allowing Rainbow the choice whether to come in or stay on the porch.

“Yeah, thanks for inviting me in. It’s starting to get a bit cool out and my hair is still a bit damp.” Rainbow walked inside to see a line of shoes by the door. She glanced down to see Sunset was only wearing socks and slipped her own sneakers off and padded after Sunset to the couch where they sat down. Rainbow frowned as Sunset kept several feet between them.

“Who was it Sunset!?” Celestia’s voice called from the kitchen.

“I-it’s Rainbow Dash, A-Vice Principal Luna asked her to bring me my homework so I invited her in, is that alright?” Sunset called back as she glanced at where Rainbow was digging into her backpack after dropping her sports bag on the floor.

“Of course! Rainbow Dash would you like something to drink?”

Rainbow blinked a few times remembering her manners as she was in her Principal’s house Applejack is going to laugh her ass off when I tell her about this. “Y-yeah a soda would be great if you have them if not water is fine Principal Celestia!”

A few moments later Celestia walked into the living room with two colas. “Here you are girls, thank you for doing this Rainbow Dash, Sunset and I both appreciate it.” She gave the rainbow-haired girl a very poignant look which Rainbow recognized from her time helping Fluttershy with animals. Okay message well and truly received, hurt Shimmer and my life is forfeit… What the hell happened last weekend!?

Sunset cracked open her own can of soda and tucked her feet under herself while looking at the assignments not noticing the intense silent discussion Rainbow and her Mom were having. When she looked up it was due to the sound of Rainbow Dash cracking her can open. She licked her bottom lip as she saw Rainbow Dash staring at her. “I-is something wrong Rainbow Dash?”

“I…no? Well actually yes. Who the fuck are you and what did you do with Shimmer?” Rainbow demanded once she noticed Celestia had returned to the kitchen. Still, she made sure her voice was just above a whisper wouldn’t do to summon the mother bear back to protect her cub. “Knock the shit off Shimmer what game are you playing this time?”

Sunset recoiled back automatically from the accusing tone her shoulders trembling. She took a few deep breaths as she stared down at her hands unable to handle Rainbow Dash’s accusing stare. “I-I’m still Sunset Shimmer, I think” She said once she was able to push back her fear. She heard Rainbow’s snort. For the first time in some time, she missed her ears which could pin back at sounds like that.

She forced herself to look up and into Rainbow’s accusing pink eyes. “I can’t make you believe me Rainbow Dash, but I will tell you this… The Sunset Shimmer that you knew died the night of the Fall Formal.” Her shoulders slumped “If it wasn’t for M-Principal Celestia I would have died with her.” She shook her head at Rainbow’s questioning look. “Later, maybe… Rainbow Dash, I-I’m sorry what Sunset Shimmer did to you, truly I am. I have her memories and feel great shame about them but I don’t have… her thoughts. Personality?” She shrugged again.

Rainbow Dash took a large swallow from her cola as she considered what Shimmer had just told her. Damn, I wish AJ was here… Honesty is her thing…but “What do you mean the Shimmer I knew died on the night of the Fall Formal? Can you explain what you mean?”

Sunset clenched her hand into fists as she squeezed her eyes shut. The very last thing she wanted to think about was being hit by the Elements of Harmony. It… may be the only thing that convinces Rainbow Dash…

“...Okay.” Sunset finally got out her voice even quieter than it had been.

Rainbow Dash set her can of cola on the coffee table as she shoved the amusing realization that Shimmer seemed to be trying to compete with Fluttershy for quietest girl at Canterlot High. “I’m listening Shimmer.”

“You humans, you still have capital punishment? I’ve seen mentions of it in my history book.” Sunset said as she tried to get her thoughts in order.

“I mean, yeah? Kinda? Some states do at least not New York but…” Rainbow trailed off “Wait did we help Sparkle execute you???”

“Yes…well, No… I’m really not explaining this well.” Sunset winced as she rubbed her forehead under where her horn should be. “In Equestria, the Elements of Harmony were… almost a fairy tale. I only knew about them due to my lessons from Princess Celestia. In her recollection they were only used twice.”

Sunset waited a moment to make sure Rainbow Dash wouldn’t interrupt before she continued. “The first was to deal with a creature of pure Chaos…And not chaos in a good way.” She shook her head remembering the nightmares she had learning about him. “He was turned to stone by the Elements.”

“Stone… are you fucking with me?” Rainbow Dash finally blurted out This sounds like something from Greek mythology.

“Nope, no kidding, the Princess often took me to the hedge maze where he is. Without a doubt he is stone. Anyway, the second time…” Sunset paused and lowered her voice even more. “The second time was when Princess Luna refused to allow the sun to rise. She had decided she was done being shunned. She became Nightmare Moon, She and Princess Celestia battled but finally Princess Celestia was able to use the Elements of Harmony on her…It banished her to the moon.”

“Holy fuck… But, I mean you’re here not stone or on the moon?” Rainbow Dash took a gulp of soda as Sunset let out a bitter laugh.

“Yeah, I’m still not sure if I wouldn’t rather be stone… I’m trying to think of the easiest way to explain this…” Sunset gazed back down at her hands. “I think…the best way to explain it would be to consider the Elements as Judge, Jury, and Executioner. For you the rainbow hit me in the face and…That's all she wrote right?”

“...Yeah, I’m gonna guess it wasn’t like that for you?” Rainbow tried to take another drink before she realized that the can was empty.

“It was years… I was forced to experience every single moment of my life where I had gone willfully against the elements.” Sunset wrapped her arms around herself as she trembled. “But I wasn’t the one who was going against them. I was the victim. It… well it would be like an abuser being forced into the victims’ body as they were abused.” Tears fell from Sunset’s blue eyes as her hood fell down causing Rainbow to gasp at the swelling and bruises that covered Shimmer’s face.

“That's why… That’s why you said the Sunset Shimmer I knew was dead, after years of being her target… Fuck.” Rainbow finally stated as the two teenagers stared at each other. She brushed her own tear away determined not to cry. “Well…” She sat up straight. “Hey, I’m Rainbow Dash captain of basically every team at Canterlot High! You seem pretty cool wanna be friends?”

Sunset paused a moment as she realized what Rainbow Dash was doing a small smile tugged at her lips “Sunset…Sunset Shimmer Everfree. And, yeah… I think I’d like that.”

Author's Note

Sorry, this took so long hope it was worth the wait?