Daughter of Sunburstby Creativa-Artly01ChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 5Chapter 6Chapter 7Chapter 9Chapter 11Chapter 12Chapter 14Chapter 15Chapter 17Chapter 20Chapter 21Chapter 18Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 8Chapter 10Chapter 13Chapter 16Chapter 19Chapter 1It's a beautiful day and everyone is having a picnic outside the school. The question then arises of "Who's your family exactly, Sunset?" "Beautiful day today," says Rarity, "isn't it?" "Yeah, not as beautiful as those starry skied nights back in Canterlot in the pony world," replies Sunset, "how I miss that place? How I miss my father? I bet he misses me too." "Who is your father?" asks a curious Pinkie Pie. "A unicorn wizard known as Sunburst," replies Sunset. "We used to do everything together." She sighs. "I wish I hadn't left. I wish I had stayed. I miss him so much." "Why don't you go back to Equestria?" asks Rainbow Dash. "Because I'm scared," replies Sunset, "scared he'll never forgive me for leaving." "He'll forgive you," says Fluttershy, reassuring Sunset, "why wouldn't he?" "You're right!" replies Sunset. "First thing tomorrow, I'm returning to Equestria, as long as you'll go with me, Twilight that is." "Of coarse I will," replies Twilight with a smile, "after all, I need to get back to keep an eye on Starlight anyways." Chapter 2The next day, Sunset and Twilight return to the pony world and then the two hop on a train to the Crystal Empire. "Do you think he'll take me back?" asks Sunset nervously. "Of coarse he will, you're his daughter, his flesh and blood," replies Twilight as she places her hoof on Sunset's shoulder. A few hours later, they hop off the train and then head to Sunburst's house. A few minutes later, they arrive on his doorstep. Sunset knocks nervously. "Come in!" replies a voice. Sunset and Twilight enter. Once they're inside, Sunset starts by apologizing. "Hello father," says Sunset, "it's me, Sunset. I'm back. I'm sorry for leaving you. I'm sorry for abandoning you." Sunburst turns around as soon as he hears her name. "Hello, my little Sunset," replies Sunburst as he runs over and embraces her in a hug, "I'm so glad you've finally come home." "Me too," replies Sunset embracing him in return. "I'm sorry I ever left. This time, I'm staying for good." "I'm glad to hear that," replies Sunburst. The two trot off and catch up. Sunburst even introduces her to his new girlfriend, Starlight Glimmer. At the Crystal Cafe, the three talk. "So," says Sunset, "when did you two start dating?" "Five years ago," replies Sunburst. "You've been gone far too long." "Oh, wow," sighs Sunset, "I had no idea it had been that long since I've been gone." "Yeah," replies Sunburst, "you've missed out on a whole lot, hon. You missed out on me becoming the Royal Crystaller, a royal birth of a new princess, and so much more." Sunset takes a bite out of her sandwich. "You work for Cadence and Shining Armor??? That's cool, I guess." "Yeah," replies Sunburst, "it's a pretty great job. It's better than being a flunk of a wizard." He giggles. "I enjoy getting to hang out with Cadence, Shining, and Flurry Heart all the time. It's a great job!" "I bet," replies Sunset. Meanwhile, back at the Crystal Empire castle, Twilight is foal sitting for Cadence and Shining Armor while the two are out at a new movie premier. She is glad to finally get some alone time with her niece. It's been too long. Still, she hopes that Sunset is doing okay and getting along with Starlight as well. That's all she can really do at this point. Chapter 5A day later, Sunset returns to the human world and officially tells the Mane Six there that she is leaving forever so she can be with her father again. They all cry as they embrace her in a hug. They're going to miss her and Applejack says that as clear as day. "I'm gonna miss ya," says Applejack, "we all are." They then end the hug and part ways for the last time. Sunset jumps back through the mirror. "Looks like we're back to being the Mane Six, huh?" says Rainbow Dash to her friends. "Yeah, sure does, sugar," says Applejack. "At least, we still have each other. Besides, if I had the chance to reunite with family after waiting for years, I'd jump at the chance too." They all then go off to the mall to get some lunch and some ice cream and to talk of all the memories they shared. Meanwhile, back in the Crystal Empire of the pony world, Sunset knocks on Sunburst's door, who in turn, opens it with a smile and lets her in. "You're room is upstairs, just how I left it." She nods and goes upstairs and drops all her things. She then pulls an old rag doll from the shelf and looks at it. Sunburst had given it to her after she had broken her arm back in elementary school to cheer her up. She hugs it then puts it on her bed. She's glad to be home again, home where she belongs. Just the same, she can't help but miss the human world just a little bit, yet she knows she'll learn to adjust to being a pony again soon enough. Chapter 6Back in the human world, "Do you think Sunset is happy over on the other side of the mirror?" asks Applejack. "Of course, darling," replies Rarity. "She's back with her family now. Why wouldn't she be happy?" "I guess you're right, Rarity," replies Applejack. Meanwhile in the pony world, Sunset is out at lunch with Sunburst, Starlight, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack. She smiles and laughs as they share stories and share jokes. She's glad to be back home where she belongs. She's missed Equestria so much and now! she can't get enough of it! She never wants to leave ever again, not in her wildest dreams. She sticks her daisy sandwich into her mouth and then takes a sip of her cider. After lunch, they all go to the Crystal Fair together. It's Sunset's first Crystal Fair in a long time and she's glad to be at one again. She's also glad she gets to do it alongside her father. For her, that's a dream come true. As they walk through the fair stands, Sunset passes by a table where she sees a sparkling orange gem hair pin. Seeing how much she loves it, Sunburst buys it for her with a smile on his face then hands it to her. She then takes it from him with her magic and then attaches it to her mane. She then smiles as she embraces him in a hug. She thanks him and then lets him out of the hug. The group then continue on to enjoy the fair for the rest of the day and Twilight even gets the chance to see her sister in law, brother, and niece, which she couldn't be more grateful for! After all, they are her world and that is the best thing to her. To all of them, they can't help but agree that family is the best thing in the world. Chapter 7That night in her room, Sunset sits on her bed and writes in her journal which transmits to Twilight's identical journal in the human world. After an hour of doing that, she puts down the journal and picks up a dusty old book and wipes it off with her hoof. She smiles when she sees the title: A Hero, a Princess, and a Dragon in a Mountain. She sighs as she opens it and begins to read it. It was her favorite book as a filly and she can't believe Sunburst kept it. She spends the entire night reading it and the next morning, Sunburst peeks in and sees Sunset tuckered out and fast asleep with the book lying on the ground open side down beside her bed. He smiles and heads off to breakfast with Starlight, Twilight, and Cadence. A few hours later, Sunset finally wakes up and goes downstairs. She then looks around for Sunburst. She then sees his note on the counter, picks it up, and reads it. "I'm out at breakfast with Starlight, Twilight, and Cadence. I'll see you tonight. Dad," she reads. She then puts down the note, goes back to her room, grabs the book, and goes into the outside loft and continues to read. She's glad to have the alone time. She just wishes he would have told her face to face instead of leaving a note. After awhile of reading, she finally finishes the book, closes out, and returns to her room and puts it back on the night stand. She then goes to Crystal Cupcakes and gets herself a strawberry cupcake, her personal favorite. She then sits down outside the store and enjoys her cupcake. Once she finishes her cupcake, she heads off to the Crystal Empire Book Emporium. She wants to find a certain book and she knows they are the only ones in the Crystal Empire who likely have it. At the Crystal Empire Book Emporium, Sunset soon finds the book she's looking for and purchases it. She then leaves the store. As she does, she catches her father kissing Starlight out of the corner of her eye. She rolls them then continues walking. She's happy for her dad, she really is, she just wishes he wouldn't kiss out in the open because honestly, she thinks it makes her look bad. She's just not going to let him know that any time soon. Chapter 9That evening while Sunburst is out, Sunset snoops around the house and manages to find her mother's old diary. She opens it and begins to read it as she goes over and plops down on the couch. She reads the diary for hours on end. Meanwhile, Sunburst is out at dinner with Starlight. The two happily order their meals and enjoy them before they go out for a walk along the Crystal River. Once their walk draws to an end, Sunburst pulls out a ring and asks Starlight to marry him, to which she lets out a happy squeal of yes! He then puts the ring on her horn. The two then go to the Crystal Pier and play balloon dart toss for several hours and winning plenty of prizes. Around 10:00 that night, Sunburst returns home and finds Sunset asleep on the couch, the closed diary at her side. He doesn't say a word and goes off to his reading corner to do some late night reading. He smiles, he'll tell her the good news about him and Starlight in the morning. Chapter 11Three months later, it's the day before the wedding. Sunburst can't help but be a little nervous, the same goes for Starlight. The big day is tomorrow and they couldn't be more on the edge than they already are. "Don't worry, everything will be fine tomorrow," Sunset assures them. The two smile as they turn around and look at her. She's right. They shouldn't be so uptight, so nervous. At noon the next day, the wedding begins. Sunset walks down the aisle throwing crystal pansy petals as she is followed by Starlight in a beautiful white wedding gown with purple accents. A few minutes later, Starlight takes her place in front of Sunburst. "We are gathered here today to witness the marriage of Starlight Glimmer and Sunburst," says Celestia, "as they are joined in matrimony. Do you, Sunburst take Starlight to be your wife in sickness and health?" "I do," says Sunburst with a smile. "And do you, Starlight take Sunburst to be your husband in sickness and health?" "I do," replies Starlight with a smile. "You may now exchange rings and kiss," says Celestia with a smile as she watches them put rings on each other's horns and then embrace and share a kiss. Sunset then comes up and hugs her father and new stepmother. "I'm so glad the two of you are happy," she says with a smile. "That means the world coming from you," replies Sunburst. "It really and truly does, my little drop of Sunshine." The embrace ends and the newly married couple heads down the aisle and hops into the carriage to head off on their honeymoon. As their carriage leaves, Sunset waves goodbye to them. Sunburst turns around and waves back. The carriage then disappears into the distance. Once they see it is gone, Sunset goes back inside to join Celestia. The two then head off to reunite with Luna and Twilight Sparkle for the day. A few hours later, the two touch down in Canterlot and are greeted by Luna and Twilight. As soon as they land, the two come over and embrace them in a hug. Once the embrace ends, Luna inquires about the wedding. "How'd the wedding go?" asks Luna. "It went well," reply Celestia and Sunset with smiles on their faces. "I'm glad to hear that," replies Luna. The four then go inside the palace. Once inside the castle, the four sit down and pull out a game board and begin playing The Great Castle Caper. It's Twilight's all time favorite mystery themed game. It's also the regal sisters' favorite game from their childhood. They used to play it with Starswirl all the time when they weren't practicing or studying magic with him. They play the game for several hours on end, laughing and joking all the while. It's nice, they can't help but agree, to get away from their royal duties for awhile, especially for Celestia and Luna. Chapter 12The next day, Sunset is out for tea with Twilight Sparkle. "So," says Sunset, "everything is changing. I have a step mother now. Granted, I don't hate Starlight, but I always thought it was just going to be me and dad, just the two of us, ya know?" "Well, your father has moved on, you should've expected him to end up with Starlight. After all, the two of them were childhood friends. Him marrying her was the next logical step." "I guess you're right." Sunset takes a sip of tea. Twilight does the same. "Do you want to go to the book store after tea? It might get your mind off of everything." "Yeah, that would be nice," replies Sunset with a smile slowly appearing on her face. A few hours later, the two finish up tea and head for the book store and delve right into reading for seven hours straight. Sunset can't help but admit Twilight was right. Reading really does get her mind off of everything that is going on around her. She even realizes that she's actually really okay with her father's marriage. She realizes that she is just a little jealous and that she'll get over it within the month. She's relieved at this realization. Meanwhile, Twilight is in deep in one of the several volumes of the Haycart Method. The book store is her favorite place and to Sunset, that is clear as day. She happily pulls out her mother's diary from her sack and begins to read it once again. After all, she can't help but be curious of what her mother was up to while she was away on the days before she passed away. After three hours, Sunset returns the diary to her bag and she and Twilight leave the book store and then go their separate ways. Twilight returns to Ponyville and Sunset returns to her father's house to get some much needed rest. The two share a hug before parting. They're glad they got to share the day together. For them, it's always fun to be together especially if it includes a place that is filled to the brim with books. Chapter 14The next day, Sunset arrives at Caramel Creme's birthday party with a gift in hand. She puts the gift on the table outside then goes over to Caramel's group alongside Angel Hair, Lyra, Minuet, Lemon Hearts, Twinkle Shine, and Caramel's older sister Carmella. "Hey Sunset, good to see you again," says Caramel Creme as soon as she sees Sunset approach her. "Good to see you, too," replies Sunset with a smile. "It really has been too long." "Where's your paw? I thought he'd try to make it too," inquires Caramel Creme. "He's on his honeymoon with Starlight," replies Sunset. "Oh okay," replies Caramel Creme. She then drops it and changes the conversation. They talk for hours before beginning the birthday song, slicing the cake, and opening presents. After enjoying a huge slice of cake, Caramel Creme goes for the first present, the one that Sunset happened to bring. She then opens it and smiles. "It's a picture of you, me, and Angel Hair, how sweet!" says Caramel. "Thank you." "You're welcome," replies Sunset with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the next gift. It's the one from Angel Hair. Once she opens it, she begins to smile. It's the rose embroidered dress she wanted. "Thank you," she says to Angel Hair, "I absolutely love it!" "You're welcome," replies Angel Hair with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the next gift, the one from Lyra. Once she opens it, she begins to smile. "Thanks for the beautiful saddle," says Caramel. "I love it!" "You're welcome!" replies Lyra with a smile. "I'm glad you like it!" Caramel Creme then opens the next gift. It's the one from Minuet. Caramel Creme opens it and inside finds a necklace chain with a heart shaped locket with a watch inside on it. Caramel Creme opens the locket and sees the watch inside and just smiles. "Thank you!" "You're welcome," replies Minuet with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the next gift. It's the one from Lemon Hearts. She smiles once it's opened. "It's that Manga Mare poster I wanted. Thank you so much." "You're welcome," replies Lemon Hearts with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the next gift. It's the one from Twinkle Shine. She smiles once it's opened. "It's that Manga Mare t-shirt I wanted. Thank you so much." "You're welcome," replies Twinkle Shine with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the gift from her sister. She smiles as she pulls back the final wrapping. "It's a picture of you, me, and mom before mom died. Thank you." A tear slips from her eye as she embraces her sister in a hug. "You're welcome," replies her sister, letting go of the embrace. Caramel Creme then opens the gift from her father. She smiles as she pulls back the wrapping. It's a music box. She opens up the box and listens to the song. It's a simple lullaby from her childhood. She smiles as she embraces her father in a hug. "Thank you, dad," says Caramel Creme. "You're welcome, sweetheart," replies her father hugging her. Caramel Creme then opens another gift, one from Amber Bark. It's a pair of concert tickets to go see Manga Mare in action in a few weeks. Caramel flips out. "Thanks so much, Amber, thank you so much!" Caramel Creme then opens the second to final gift, a gift from her aunt, Caramel Swirl. Once it's opened, she flips out. It's the Manga Mare pajamas. She embraces her aunt in a hug and gives her a thank you. She'd been looking for the pajamas for forever and she can't believe her aunt found them. She's thrilled. Caramel Creme then opens the final gift, a gift from Twilight Sparkle. Once she opens it, she smiles. It's a picture of her and Twilight when they were foals. A tear falls from her eye. She can't believe Twilight left the gift then left the party. Then again, from what she's heard from Moon Dancer, that's normal for Twilight. Even so, she can't help but be disappointed that Twilight didn't show. The following day, Twilight calls and apologizes for not making the party. "It was a friendship conference with Cadence and the regal sisters in the Griffin Village. I'm sorry." "It's fine," replies Caramel Creme over the phone, "I loved the gift regardless." "I'm glad," responds Twilight, "shall we meet up for dinner on Friday?" "Sure, I'd like that," replies Caramel. She then listens as Twilight hangs up. At least, she's bothering to make up for not making the party. At least, that's more than she ever did for Moon Dancer. Caramel Creme can definitely agree to that. Chapter 15Five months later, Sunburst and Starlight return to the Crystal Empire. As they arrive at the house, Sunset drops her book and runs to greet them and embraces them in a hug. "I'm so glad you're home!" says Sunset, still holding them in the embrace. After a few minutes, she lets go of the embrace. "How was the trip?" "It went well," replies Sunburst. "Thanks for asking." "Why don't we go out to dinner tonight, just the three of us?" suggests Starlight. "That sounds perfect," replies Sunset. That night, the three go out to dinner and enjoy their food, stories, jokes, and laughs. The three have an all around merry evening and even go see a movie afterwards. The three have an amazing time at the movie and actually rather enjoyed themselves. After the movie, the three go home and Starlight and Sunburst go to their room and go to sleep and Sunset goes to her room to catch up on her reading and even writes a late night note to Celestia asking to see her again. Once the letter is written, Sunset nods off to sleep. She's tired, she's had a busy last five months and honestly, she'd have it no other way. Chapter 17A year later, Starlight gives birth a healthy little unicorn filly with a light purple coat, blue eyes, and a blond yellow mane and tail with a pink streak in them. "She's so beautiful," says Sunburst. "I'm so glad to be a big sister!" exclaims Sunset. All the while, Starlight just smiles. She's glad to be a mother. The three go goo goo over the new member of the family and Sunset even smiles once she gets the chance to hold her little sister. "What are you going to name her?" The little filly giggles as Sunset tickles her on the chin. "Twinkle Glimmer," replies Starlight. "How about we drop the Glimmer and just call her Twinkle?" suggests Sunset. "Okay, her name is Twinkle, then," replies Starlight, happily taking Sunset's advice. Sunset continues to hold the little filly until she starts crying, then she hands her back over to Starlight. "I'm going to head out for a lunch date with some old friends," says Sunset, "I'll see y'all later!" "Okay," reply Sunburst and Starlight as Sunset heads out the door. "Have a good time!" "I will!" She then heads straight out the door and off to the Crystal Cafe. A few minutes later at the Crystal Cafe, Sunset talks with her friends, sharing stories and cracking jokes and just all around having a great time. The friends spend the rest of the day together including going to the Crystal Fair together that evening. Sunset is glad to have her childhood friends back at her side all the time, she's glad to be a big sister, everything is going her way and she couldn't ask for more than that by any stretch of the imagination, and for that, she is very grateful! Meanwhile back at their house, Starlight and Sunburst tend to their newborn daughter, Twinkle. Needless to say, they're stressed to the breaking point. They feed the little filly, change her diaper, burp her, but still she continues to cry. Sunburst then feels her horn. "Oh no! Her horn is hot again! She's about to shoot another beam of magic!" A beam of magic then shoots straight over their heads and knocks down one of their crystal vases from it's shelf. Sunburst then remembers the infantile magic control spell he cast on Flurry Heart when she was an infant. He goes and grabs the spell and then casts it on his daughter's horn, getting her magic under control at long last. He breathes a sigh of relief as does Starlight. They then go and put the sleeping filly down for her nap. A few minutes later, Sunset returns home and sees the mess all over the place. "Let me guess, the baby," says Sunset. "Yep," replies Starlight. "But we got it under control, she's sleeping in her room now. Just be careful of the broken vase at your feet." Sunset nods and steps over the broken vase at her feet and then dashes up the stairs to her bedroom to do some reading. She'll play with Twinkle more tomorrow. After all, she's a big sister now and as the big sister, it's her job to keep the baby smiling, laughing, and all around happy. Chapter 20A few weeks later, Sunset returns to the human world for a brief visit of only one to two days. As soon as her friends see her pop through the portal, they all embrace her in a warm hug. "What all have I missed?" she asks. "Other than my sister in law Cadence having her baby, not much," replies Twilight. "Well, congratulations on that, I bet you love being an aunt!" replies Sunset. "I'm a big sister now myself. My little sister is named Twinkle." Sunset pulls out a picture and shows it to Twilight and the others. "She's adorable," says Fluttershy with wide eyes. The friends then go out to eat at the cafe up the road and chat for hours on end. They then go to the amusement park and ride all the coasters and play the carnival games and have an all around blast. Sunset is glad she came back, even though it's only for a day or two. Meanwhile in the Crystal Empire in the pony world, Starlight and Sunburst are out having lunch together while Twinkle is at a playdate with Flurry Heart. The two are glad to have the down time. The two talk, joke, and even go on a nice carriage ride around the empire. The two are so glad they married, so glad they now have a family together, they'd honestly have it no other way. A day later, Sunset returns through the portal, bearing a gift from each of her friends. She has a butterfly pin and a flower from Fluttershy, a bookmark from Twilight, a guitar pick from Rainbow Dash, a balloon and fresh baked cupcakes from Pinkie Pie, a beautiful diamond pin from Rarity, and an apple sapling from Applejack. She smiles as she takes these all inside and takes the sapling into the backyard and plants it. Sunset is so glad she still has friends in the other world as well as this one. She truly couldn't ask for anything better than that. Chapter 21It's a new day and Sunset is about to get her family picture taken with her father, step mother, and little sister. She's excited. This'll be the first picture of all of them. Once her hair is fixed, she goes outside and joins the rest of her family, and the photographer takes their picture. He then takes some of just her, some of just her father and step mother, and some of just Starlight and her baby sister, and some of her with just Starlight and Twinkle. After several hours, all the pictures are taken and developed and given back to them to be framed. Sunset couldn't be happier. Now, she's officially part of her family once again and she'd have it no other way. Now, off to the Crystal Pony Ice Cream Shop for some nice, cold, delicious cones. The End PS: Also expect a sequel. Chapter 18It's a new day when Sunset is woken by the sound of crying. She goes down the hall to the nursery and gently lifts little Twinkle out of her cradle and rocks her and sings her a lullaby that her father used to sing her. "Close your eyes, let sleep overtake you, the Crystal Heart's power will always protect you. Close your eyes, don't make a peep. Morning's far off, just get some sleep. Morning's far off, just get some sleep," coos Sunset. All of a sudden, the foal stops crying and Sunset lays her back down into the cradle and goes and sits in the rocker on the other side of the room and begins to read the book that is sitting there. It's a book her father used to read to her when she was little called My Fair Lady. She opens it and reads it, a smile appearing on her face. It was one of several of her favorite books as a child and reading it brings back several good memories for her including dressing up as the main character, Augusta Mane, whenever she was younger for Nightmare Night. A few hours later, Starlight enters the nursery is surprised to see Sunset in there but soon that shock turns into a sweet smile. Starlight goes over and looks over the crib of the sleeping filly. "Thanks for staying with her," says Starlight turning to Sunset. "Don't mention it," replies Sunset with a smile, "after all, what are big sister's for?" Starlight then leaves the room and returns back to bed. Sunset goes over and looks at the sleeping little Twinkle. She begins to sing the lullaby again. "Close your eyes, keep them shut, soon morning and magic and the love of the heart will be here to greet you with the song of morning sunshine. Close your eyes, keep them shut, soon morning, magic, and the love of the heart will be here to greet you." Sunset then goes and sits back down in the chair and continues to read the book once again. From now on, she'll make a habit of reading the stories of her childhood whenever she wakes up early enough to go and sit in on her baby sister. Chapter 3After lunch, Sunset goes with Sunburst and Starlight to the castle. There, they are all greeted by Twilight, Cadence, Shining Armor, and a sleeping Flurry Heart, whom Cadence is holding in her hooves. Sunset smiles. "I didn't know you were an auntie," says Sunset to Twilight. "Well, there's a lot you didn't know about me," replies Twilight, "now, how'd today go?" "It went well," replies Sunset. "It's good to be home. I have no plans of leaving ever again." "Well, should you tell the human world's Mane Six that you're not returning?" asks Twilight puzzled. "Yeah, I probably should," replies Sunset. "I'll go back tomorrow and tell them. I promise." Once they exchange, Twilight says goodbye to her brother and his family and then goes with Sunset, Sunburst, and Starlight back to Ponyville for the day. A few hours later in Ponyville, the four arrive in Ponyville and are immediately greeted by Pinkie Pie with a great big hug. "It's so good to see you again!" says Pinkie hugging them in one great big group hug. The five then go off to Sugar Cube Corner where they soon find Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Rarity. All of them then sit down to a table together and enjoy free cupcakes courtesy of Pinkie Pie. After all, who doesn't enjoy talking over free cupcakes? "So," says Pinkie, "you're telling me there's a world where I'm a fourth wall breaking human?" "Yep," replies Sunset. "Cool," replies Pinkie. "Why'd you come back to the pony world then?" "Because this is where my father is, Sunburst is my father." "It's true," replies Sunburst. "Yeah, I see the similarities," reply Pinkie and Rainbow Dash. "The love of magic, the sun colored hair, the fact you're both unicorns with high standings." "Well, used to be high standing," says Sunset rubbing her neck. "Celestia hates my guts for trying to dethrone her." "Is that why you left?" asks Sunburst. "Yes," sighs Sunset bowing her head, "that's why I left. I had no choice in the matter. It was either leave or be tried with treason against the crown. Which would you rather choose? Don't answer that." "Had no plans on it," replies Sunburst. "I know how you feel," replies Starlight, "I used to have an entire town enslaved to my will." "Well, I'm glad some pony understands," replies Sunset with a faked smile on her face. They then change the conversation to something else and continue to chat for hours. Sunset, in all honesty, is just glad to be back home where she belongs. Chapter 4A few hours later, everypony returns to Sugar Cube Corner after a mid meal burger smashing at Hayburger. How Sunset missed those overly ketchuped hayburgers! That's for certain. Back at Sugar Cube Corner, everypony enjoys a good laugh as Pinkie tells joke after joke after joke and Sunset shares stories from her time in the human world. Everything is going perfect until Twilight is summoned away by Princess Luna and Princess Celestia to tend to some royal business. At the Canterlot Castle, Celestia and Luna bring Twilight into the main hall and close the doors. "Why is Sunset back here?" asks a pissed off Celestia. "Because, don't you think you've banned her to the world of humans for long enough?" asks Twilight. "Perhaps you're right," sighs Celestia. "I sense there's something more, though," says Luna. "There is," replies Twilight, "she returned to see her father. Her father, Sunburst." "It was bound to happen eventually sister, you know that," says Luna to Celestia. "I know," replies Celestia, "she was bound to learn the truth about her father eventually. I just didn't think she'd ever return to reunite with him." "Why would you think that?" asks Luna puzzled. "Because, I thought she didn't care for any pony other than herself, clearly I was wrong." "You were, indeed, sister." "Please go easy on Sunset, she regrets what she's done and wants you to forgive her," says Twilight to Celestia. "I'll apologize to her, first thing tomorrow after I raise the sun." Twilight then takes this news and flies back to Ponyville where she tells it to Sunset. "Celestia is willing to apologize to you, first thing tomorrow after she raises the sun," says Twilight to Sunset. Sunset is pleased and leaps for joy. She's glad that Celestia has found it in her heart to forgive her and that's all she could ever really ask for. Chapter 8A few hours later, Sunburst returns to his house and to Sunset Shimmer lounging and reading her newly purchased book on the couch. "How was your breakfast outing?" asks Sunset passively. "It went well, thank you," replies Sunburst. "Are you and Starlight close, like close close?" asks Sunset. "Yes, but that's understandable, she was my foalhood best friend and is now my marefriend," replies Sunburst. "Just curious, whatever happened to mom?" asks Sunset. Sunburst sighs, "she had a heart attack not long after you left us for your training with the princess." "I, I, I had no idea," replies Sunset running over and embracing her father in a hug with tears in her eyes, "I really and truly had no idea." "It's understandable that you had no idea, how would you know? Celestia wouldn't let you write to us that often since she had you busy doing lessons every hour of every day." The two continue to talk about things Sunset missed while under Celestia's tutelage for hours on end. By the end of it, Sunset knows a whole lot more not only about her father, but her deceased mother and Starlight as well. Sunset then bursts back into tears and Sunburst goes over and comforts her. He then gives her some space, so she can let it all soak in. She needs some time to herself, so Sunburst sees this as a good time to go spend some more time with Starlight. After all, he does have a surprise for her that he wants to share with her as soon as possible. Chapter 10The next morning, Sunset goes to breakfast alongside Starlight and Sunburst. Once they arrive at the cafe, they are shown to their seats by the waiter who then brings them three cups of coffee. He then brings them menus and gives them a few minutes to order. A few minutes later, he walks over and takes their orders, three oatmeals. As they eat their oatmeals, the three talk. "So," says Sunset, "anything you two want to tell me?" "Yes," the two squeal, "we're engaged!" "It's about time," replies Sunset with a grin, "I'm happy for you dad! When's the wedding?" "In a few months," he replies with a glowing smile on his face. "Will you be my little flower girl?" "Of coarse I will, dad," giggles Sunset, "I'd be glad to." The three get back to enjoying their oatmeal and once they finish it up, they pay at the counter then leave the cafe. The three then head off to the Museum of the Crystal Heart for the afternoon. After all, Sunset can't help but admit, it was her favorite place to come when she was a filly. In fact, she still enjoys going there. That's one thing that will never change. She'll always be her father's over curious little dearest. The three stroll around the museum and look at all the artifacts relating to the empire and the Crystal Heart for hours on end including a fascinating scroll of a prophesy of a princess born with magic endowed her by the heart upon her conception, in other words, the prophesy foretelling Cadence's birth. They end up staying at the museum until its closing time before finally being kicked out along with the rest of the meanderers. Sunset is thankful that she got to spend some more quality time with her father and step mother to be. After all, Starlight is going to be a part of the family soon, so she might as well get to know her. Chapter 13Meanwhile, Sunburst and Starlight are enjoying a beautiful afternoon in Filicy. They're drinking wine and eating grapes as they watch the sunrise. The two couldn't be happier. They're glad to be married. Alas, Starlight can't help but feel Sunset doesn't quite care for her. "Does your daughter hate me?" asks Starlight. "No, of coarse not," replies Sunburst, "she just needs time to adjust is all." "I hope you're right." The two end the conversation at that. She leans her head on his shoulder. Sunburst smiles at her. The two then get back to enjoying their picnic as they continue to watch the sun. Back in the Crystal Empire, Sunset is out shopping for some new decorations for her bedroom. While she's at the furniture store, Sunset runs into an old friend of hers. That friend's name is Angel Hair. "Hey Angel Hair," says Sunset to the cream colored pegasus. "Hey to you too, Sunset, how have you been? Do you want to go get lunch and catch up?" replies Angel Hair. "Sure," replies Sunset. After making their purchases, the two head outside and grab a cab and head to the new Crystal Heart Cafe. Once at the Crystal Heart Cafe, the two sit down at their table. The two then order two lemonades and then begin to chat. "Where have you been for the last five years?" asks Angel Hair curiously. "Stuck in a world where all ponies are humans and all dragons are dogs," replies Sunset, "believe me, it's not as weird as it sounds." "Oh, I believe you, you're the most trustworthy pony I know," replies Angel, "after all, Sunset, you're my best friend." "So you don't care that I'm not the most trustworthy pony?" "Oh, not at all! That's not who you are now. How's your father? I heard he's newly married." "Dad is good, he's happy to be married to Starlight," replies Sunset. "That's good, I bet you love that, huh?" responds Angel Hair. "Yeah," replies Sunset, "I am happy for him." The waiter then comes out and takes their order. Angel Hair orders her personal favorite, carrot potato soup with dumplings. Sunset orders a daisy stuffed hay burger with a dandelion salad. A few minutes later, the waiter returns with their food and the two continue to talk as they eat their lunches. The two talk for several more hours before finally parting ways. Sunset is just glad she got to catch up with Angel Hair and Angel Hair is just glad she got to catch up with Sunset. After all, Sunset was gone for five years. Back at her father's house, Sunset gets right to work on redecorating her room. With her magic, she manages to get it done within five minutes time. She then goes outside for a nice walk down to the fair grounds to play darts for a few hours. It's a great way for her to relax and destress before her friend Caramel Creme's birthday party tomorrow. Author's Note Filicy=Sicily Chapter 16The next morning, Starlight and Sunburst are talking in their bedroom while Sunset is snooping outside their door. She ends up hearing some things she has a feeling she wasn't supposed to hear until later. "Sunburst, my sunshine, should we tell her?" "Tell her what?" asks Sunburst. "That you managed to get me pregnant over the last month of our honeymoon," replies Starlight. "We'll tell her tonight at dinner," responds Sunburst. "Okay," replies Starlight. A few minutes later, Sunburst leaves the room, clueless that Sunset was listening in to everything he and Starlight were saying. After all, he doesn't care since he thought they were talking in private. He goes to the kitchen and begins to make breakfast for the three of them. As he does, Sunset just watches him from behind her book that she's reading at the kitchen table. "Good morning, dad," says Sunset, closing her book. "Good morning, sweetheart," Sunburst replies. He then brings her plate over to him with his magic and plops some pancakes and fresh fruit onto it and sends it back over to her with his magic once again. A few minutes later, Starlight comes out and sits at the kitchen table and he makes her a plate and sends it over to her with his magic. He then brings over his own plate with his magic and sits down at the table with them. The three then enjoy their breakfast. After breakfast, the three go out and down to the Crystal Pier and enjoy playing carnival games, riding coasters, and riding the Ferris wheel for several hours. The three have a blast and even go out for lunch and ice cream afterwards. They're such a happy family and they'd have it no other way. Sunburst is glad his daughter is warming up to Starlight. It really puts a wide smile on his face. That afternoon, the three return to the house for a few hours before going to have dinner with Cadence, Shining Armor, Twilight, Celestia, and Luna. At dinner with Shining and the and princesses, they share stories and laughs and have an all around good time. After all, who wouldn't enjoy a dinner made by Celestia herself? Celestia is a good cook, they can all agree to that, especially Luna. They all continue to talk for several hours before parting ways. Two hours later, back at their house, Sunburst and Starlight break the news to Sunset. "Honey, we have something to tell you," says Sunburst, "now don't freak out!" "We're expecting a foal!" exclaims Starlight. "I already knew, I kind of snooped outside your door this morning," replies Sunset, finally letting the truth out, "but I'm happy about it just the same. I can't wait to be a big sister. Honestly, I can't." Sunburst surprisingly doesn't get mad at Sunset and tells her that it's okay and tells her she still needs to go to her bedroom and consider how much snooping undermines privacy. Sunset agrees and goes off to her room. She knows her father has the right to punish her, she did wrong after all. On the upside, though, at least now she can read in pure silence. Chapter 19That afternoon, while she's alone, while Starlight is off nursing Twinkle and her father is off at work, Sunset takes a breather and takes her journal, goes and sits outside, and writes a note to her friends in the human world. 'Dear Twilight, Rainbow, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie, guess what happened recently? I became a big sister and I'm so thrilled. Also, my father married Starlight a year ago, but that's no shocker since the two were childhood friends. How is everything going over there? I miss y'all. Sunset' A few hours later while out at lunch at the Crystal Heart Cafe, Sunset gets a response. She opens the journal and reads it. "Dear Sunset," she reads, "we're glad that you're happy. Congratulations on the whole big sister thing. Rarity and Applejack especially say treat your little sister well because you never know when they'll grow up and be out of your life forever. Come back and visit sometime whenever you get the chance. Rainbow and the Crew". Sunset smiles as she looks at the note for one more brief moment before putting it back in her bag. A few minutes later, Sunset is joined by Angel Hair. "Good to see you again," says Sunset, greeting her friend in a warm embrace. "Honey, we had lunch together a few days ago," replies Angel Hair. Sunset lets go and Angel takes her seat. The two then order two coffees and talk for several hours. "So, I heard that you're a big sister now, what's your baby sister's name?" asks Angel Hair. "Yeah, I'm a big sister now and I absolutely love it. My baby sister's name is Twinkle," replies Sunset with a smile. She pulls out a picture of her holding little Twinkle and shows it to Angel Hair. "Well, she's adorable," replies Angel Hair. "Yeah, I'm so lucky," replies Sunset. "That you are." The two then take a sip of coffee before continuing their conversation. The two continue to talk for hours on end before finally parting ways. Sunset returns to her home and her step mother and Angel Hair goes to pick up her child from daycare. Everything is perfect for Sunset, her life can only go up hill from here, and she'd honestly have it no other way.
Chapter 1It's a beautiful day and everyone is having a picnic outside the school. The question then arises of "Who's your family exactly, Sunset?" "Beautiful day today," says Rarity, "isn't it?" "Yeah, not as beautiful as those starry skied nights back in Canterlot in the pony world," replies Sunset, "how I miss that place? How I miss my father? I bet he misses me too." "Who is your father?" asks a curious Pinkie Pie. "A unicorn wizard known as Sunburst," replies Sunset. "We used to do everything together." She sighs. "I wish I hadn't left. I wish I had stayed. I miss him so much." "Why don't you go back to Equestria?" asks Rainbow Dash. "Because I'm scared," replies Sunset, "scared he'll never forgive me for leaving." "He'll forgive you," says Fluttershy, reassuring Sunset, "why wouldn't he?" "You're right!" replies Sunset. "First thing tomorrow, I'm returning to Equestria, as long as you'll go with me, Twilight that is." "Of coarse I will," replies Twilight with a smile, "after all, I need to get back to keep an eye on Starlight anyways."
Chapter 2The next day, Sunset and Twilight return to the pony world and then the two hop on a train to the Crystal Empire. "Do you think he'll take me back?" asks Sunset nervously. "Of coarse he will, you're his daughter, his flesh and blood," replies Twilight as she places her hoof on Sunset's shoulder. A few hours later, they hop off the train and then head to Sunburst's house. A few minutes later, they arrive on his doorstep. Sunset knocks nervously. "Come in!" replies a voice. Sunset and Twilight enter. Once they're inside, Sunset starts by apologizing. "Hello father," says Sunset, "it's me, Sunset. I'm back. I'm sorry for leaving you. I'm sorry for abandoning you." Sunburst turns around as soon as he hears her name. "Hello, my little Sunset," replies Sunburst as he runs over and embraces her in a hug, "I'm so glad you've finally come home." "Me too," replies Sunset embracing him in return. "I'm sorry I ever left. This time, I'm staying for good." "I'm glad to hear that," replies Sunburst. The two trot off and catch up. Sunburst even introduces her to his new girlfriend, Starlight Glimmer. At the Crystal Cafe, the three talk. "So," says Sunset, "when did you two start dating?" "Five years ago," replies Sunburst. "You've been gone far too long." "Oh, wow," sighs Sunset, "I had no idea it had been that long since I've been gone." "Yeah," replies Sunburst, "you've missed out on a whole lot, hon. You missed out on me becoming the Royal Crystaller, a royal birth of a new princess, and so much more." Sunset takes a bite out of her sandwich. "You work for Cadence and Shining Armor??? That's cool, I guess." "Yeah," replies Sunburst, "it's a pretty great job. It's better than being a flunk of a wizard." He giggles. "I enjoy getting to hang out with Cadence, Shining, and Flurry Heart all the time. It's a great job!" "I bet," replies Sunset. Meanwhile, back at the Crystal Empire castle, Twilight is foal sitting for Cadence and Shining Armor while the two are out at a new movie premier. She is glad to finally get some alone time with her niece. It's been too long. Still, she hopes that Sunset is doing okay and getting along with Starlight as well. That's all she can really do at this point.
Chapter 5A day later, Sunset returns to the human world and officially tells the Mane Six there that she is leaving forever so she can be with her father again. They all cry as they embrace her in a hug. They're going to miss her and Applejack says that as clear as day. "I'm gonna miss ya," says Applejack, "we all are." They then end the hug and part ways for the last time. Sunset jumps back through the mirror. "Looks like we're back to being the Mane Six, huh?" says Rainbow Dash to her friends. "Yeah, sure does, sugar," says Applejack. "At least, we still have each other. Besides, if I had the chance to reunite with family after waiting for years, I'd jump at the chance too." They all then go off to the mall to get some lunch and some ice cream and to talk of all the memories they shared. Meanwhile, back in the Crystal Empire of the pony world, Sunset knocks on Sunburst's door, who in turn, opens it with a smile and lets her in. "You're room is upstairs, just how I left it." She nods and goes upstairs and drops all her things. She then pulls an old rag doll from the shelf and looks at it. Sunburst had given it to her after she had broken her arm back in elementary school to cheer her up. She hugs it then puts it on her bed. She's glad to be home again, home where she belongs. Just the same, she can't help but miss the human world just a little bit, yet she knows she'll learn to adjust to being a pony again soon enough.
Chapter 6Back in the human world, "Do you think Sunset is happy over on the other side of the mirror?" asks Applejack. "Of course, darling," replies Rarity. "She's back with her family now. Why wouldn't she be happy?" "I guess you're right, Rarity," replies Applejack. Meanwhile in the pony world, Sunset is out at lunch with Sunburst, Starlight, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack. She smiles and laughs as they share stories and share jokes. She's glad to be back home where she belongs. She's missed Equestria so much and now! she can't get enough of it! She never wants to leave ever again, not in her wildest dreams. She sticks her daisy sandwich into her mouth and then takes a sip of her cider. After lunch, they all go to the Crystal Fair together. It's Sunset's first Crystal Fair in a long time and she's glad to be at one again. She's also glad she gets to do it alongside her father. For her, that's a dream come true. As they walk through the fair stands, Sunset passes by a table where she sees a sparkling orange gem hair pin. Seeing how much she loves it, Sunburst buys it for her with a smile on his face then hands it to her. She then takes it from him with her magic and then attaches it to her mane. She then smiles as she embraces him in a hug. She thanks him and then lets him out of the hug. The group then continue on to enjoy the fair for the rest of the day and Twilight even gets the chance to see her sister in law, brother, and niece, which she couldn't be more grateful for! After all, they are her world and that is the best thing to her. To all of them, they can't help but agree that family is the best thing in the world.
Chapter 7That night in her room, Sunset sits on her bed and writes in her journal which transmits to Twilight's identical journal in the human world. After an hour of doing that, she puts down the journal and picks up a dusty old book and wipes it off with her hoof. She smiles when she sees the title: A Hero, a Princess, and a Dragon in a Mountain. She sighs as she opens it and begins to read it. It was her favorite book as a filly and she can't believe Sunburst kept it. She spends the entire night reading it and the next morning, Sunburst peeks in and sees Sunset tuckered out and fast asleep with the book lying on the ground open side down beside her bed. He smiles and heads off to breakfast with Starlight, Twilight, and Cadence. A few hours later, Sunset finally wakes up and goes downstairs. She then looks around for Sunburst. She then sees his note on the counter, picks it up, and reads it. "I'm out at breakfast with Starlight, Twilight, and Cadence. I'll see you tonight. Dad," she reads. She then puts down the note, goes back to her room, grabs the book, and goes into the outside loft and continues to read. She's glad to have the alone time. She just wishes he would have told her face to face instead of leaving a note. After awhile of reading, she finally finishes the book, closes out, and returns to her room and puts it back on the night stand. She then goes to Crystal Cupcakes and gets herself a strawberry cupcake, her personal favorite. She then sits down outside the store and enjoys her cupcake. Once she finishes her cupcake, she heads off to the Crystal Empire Book Emporium. She wants to find a certain book and she knows they are the only ones in the Crystal Empire who likely have it. At the Crystal Empire Book Emporium, Sunset soon finds the book she's looking for and purchases it. She then leaves the store. As she does, she catches her father kissing Starlight out of the corner of her eye. She rolls them then continues walking. She's happy for her dad, she really is, she just wishes he wouldn't kiss out in the open because honestly, she thinks it makes her look bad. She's just not going to let him know that any time soon.
Chapter 9That evening while Sunburst is out, Sunset snoops around the house and manages to find her mother's old diary. She opens it and begins to read it as she goes over and plops down on the couch. She reads the diary for hours on end. Meanwhile, Sunburst is out at dinner with Starlight. The two happily order their meals and enjoy them before they go out for a walk along the Crystal River. Once their walk draws to an end, Sunburst pulls out a ring and asks Starlight to marry him, to which she lets out a happy squeal of yes! He then puts the ring on her horn. The two then go to the Crystal Pier and play balloon dart toss for several hours and winning plenty of prizes. Around 10:00 that night, Sunburst returns home and finds Sunset asleep on the couch, the closed diary at her side. He doesn't say a word and goes off to his reading corner to do some late night reading. He smiles, he'll tell her the good news about him and Starlight in the morning.
Chapter 11Three months later, it's the day before the wedding. Sunburst can't help but be a little nervous, the same goes for Starlight. The big day is tomorrow and they couldn't be more on the edge than they already are. "Don't worry, everything will be fine tomorrow," Sunset assures them. The two smile as they turn around and look at her. She's right. They shouldn't be so uptight, so nervous. At noon the next day, the wedding begins. Sunset walks down the aisle throwing crystal pansy petals as she is followed by Starlight in a beautiful white wedding gown with purple accents. A few minutes later, Starlight takes her place in front of Sunburst. "We are gathered here today to witness the marriage of Starlight Glimmer and Sunburst," says Celestia, "as they are joined in matrimony. Do you, Sunburst take Starlight to be your wife in sickness and health?" "I do," says Sunburst with a smile. "And do you, Starlight take Sunburst to be your husband in sickness and health?" "I do," replies Starlight with a smile. "You may now exchange rings and kiss," says Celestia with a smile as she watches them put rings on each other's horns and then embrace and share a kiss. Sunset then comes up and hugs her father and new stepmother. "I'm so glad the two of you are happy," she says with a smile. "That means the world coming from you," replies Sunburst. "It really and truly does, my little drop of Sunshine." The embrace ends and the newly married couple heads down the aisle and hops into the carriage to head off on their honeymoon. As their carriage leaves, Sunset waves goodbye to them. Sunburst turns around and waves back. The carriage then disappears into the distance. Once they see it is gone, Sunset goes back inside to join Celestia. The two then head off to reunite with Luna and Twilight Sparkle for the day. A few hours later, the two touch down in Canterlot and are greeted by Luna and Twilight. As soon as they land, the two come over and embrace them in a hug. Once the embrace ends, Luna inquires about the wedding. "How'd the wedding go?" asks Luna. "It went well," reply Celestia and Sunset with smiles on their faces. "I'm glad to hear that," replies Luna. The four then go inside the palace. Once inside the castle, the four sit down and pull out a game board and begin playing The Great Castle Caper. It's Twilight's all time favorite mystery themed game. It's also the regal sisters' favorite game from their childhood. They used to play it with Starswirl all the time when they weren't practicing or studying magic with him. They play the game for several hours on end, laughing and joking all the while. It's nice, they can't help but agree, to get away from their royal duties for awhile, especially for Celestia and Luna.
Chapter 12The next day, Sunset is out for tea with Twilight Sparkle. "So," says Sunset, "everything is changing. I have a step mother now. Granted, I don't hate Starlight, but I always thought it was just going to be me and dad, just the two of us, ya know?" "Well, your father has moved on, you should've expected him to end up with Starlight. After all, the two of them were childhood friends. Him marrying her was the next logical step." "I guess you're right." Sunset takes a sip of tea. Twilight does the same. "Do you want to go to the book store after tea? It might get your mind off of everything." "Yeah, that would be nice," replies Sunset with a smile slowly appearing on her face. A few hours later, the two finish up tea and head for the book store and delve right into reading for seven hours straight. Sunset can't help but admit Twilight was right. Reading really does get her mind off of everything that is going on around her. She even realizes that she's actually really okay with her father's marriage. She realizes that she is just a little jealous and that she'll get over it within the month. She's relieved at this realization. Meanwhile, Twilight is in deep in one of the several volumes of the Haycart Method. The book store is her favorite place and to Sunset, that is clear as day. She happily pulls out her mother's diary from her sack and begins to read it once again. After all, she can't help but be curious of what her mother was up to while she was away on the days before she passed away. After three hours, Sunset returns the diary to her bag and she and Twilight leave the book store and then go their separate ways. Twilight returns to Ponyville and Sunset returns to her father's house to get some much needed rest. The two share a hug before parting. They're glad they got to share the day together. For them, it's always fun to be together especially if it includes a place that is filled to the brim with books.
Chapter 14The next day, Sunset arrives at Caramel Creme's birthday party with a gift in hand. She puts the gift on the table outside then goes over to Caramel's group alongside Angel Hair, Lyra, Minuet, Lemon Hearts, Twinkle Shine, and Caramel's older sister Carmella. "Hey Sunset, good to see you again," says Caramel Creme as soon as she sees Sunset approach her. "Good to see you, too," replies Sunset with a smile. "It really has been too long." "Where's your paw? I thought he'd try to make it too," inquires Caramel Creme. "He's on his honeymoon with Starlight," replies Sunset. "Oh okay," replies Caramel Creme. She then drops it and changes the conversation. They talk for hours before beginning the birthday song, slicing the cake, and opening presents. After enjoying a huge slice of cake, Caramel Creme goes for the first present, the one that Sunset happened to bring. She then opens it and smiles. "It's a picture of you, me, and Angel Hair, how sweet!" says Caramel. "Thank you." "You're welcome," replies Sunset with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the next gift. It's the one from Angel Hair. Once she opens it, she begins to smile. It's the rose embroidered dress she wanted. "Thank you," she says to Angel Hair, "I absolutely love it!" "You're welcome," replies Angel Hair with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the next gift, the one from Lyra. Once she opens it, she begins to smile. "Thanks for the beautiful saddle," says Caramel. "I love it!" "You're welcome!" replies Lyra with a smile. "I'm glad you like it!" Caramel Creme then opens the next gift. It's the one from Minuet. Caramel Creme opens it and inside finds a necklace chain with a heart shaped locket with a watch inside on it. Caramel Creme opens the locket and sees the watch inside and just smiles. "Thank you!" "You're welcome," replies Minuet with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the next gift. It's the one from Lemon Hearts. She smiles once it's opened. "It's that Manga Mare poster I wanted. Thank you so much." "You're welcome," replies Lemon Hearts with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the next gift. It's the one from Twinkle Shine. She smiles once it's opened. "It's that Manga Mare t-shirt I wanted. Thank you so much." "You're welcome," replies Twinkle Shine with a smile. Caramel Creme then opens the gift from her sister. She smiles as she pulls back the final wrapping. "It's a picture of you, me, and mom before mom died. Thank you." A tear slips from her eye as she embraces her sister in a hug. "You're welcome," replies her sister, letting go of the embrace. Caramel Creme then opens the gift from her father. She smiles as she pulls back the wrapping. It's a music box. She opens up the box and listens to the song. It's a simple lullaby from her childhood. She smiles as she embraces her father in a hug. "Thank you, dad," says Caramel Creme. "You're welcome, sweetheart," replies her father hugging her. Caramel Creme then opens another gift, one from Amber Bark. It's a pair of concert tickets to go see Manga Mare in action in a few weeks. Caramel flips out. "Thanks so much, Amber, thank you so much!" Caramel Creme then opens the second to final gift, a gift from her aunt, Caramel Swirl. Once it's opened, she flips out. It's the Manga Mare pajamas. She embraces her aunt in a hug and gives her a thank you. She'd been looking for the pajamas for forever and she can't believe her aunt found them. She's thrilled. Caramel Creme then opens the final gift, a gift from Twilight Sparkle. Once she opens it, she smiles. It's a picture of her and Twilight when they were foals. A tear falls from her eye. She can't believe Twilight left the gift then left the party. Then again, from what she's heard from Moon Dancer, that's normal for Twilight. Even so, she can't help but be disappointed that Twilight didn't show. The following day, Twilight calls and apologizes for not making the party. "It was a friendship conference with Cadence and the regal sisters in the Griffin Village. I'm sorry." "It's fine," replies Caramel Creme over the phone, "I loved the gift regardless." "I'm glad," responds Twilight, "shall we meet up for dinner on Friday?" "Sure, I'd like that," replies Caramel. She then listens as Twilight hangs up. At least, she's bothering to make up for not making the party. At least, that's more than she ever did for Moon Dancer. Caramel Creme can definitely agree to that.
Chapter 15Five months later, Sunburst and Starlight return to the Crystal Empire. As they arrive at the house, Sunset drops her book and runs to greet them and embraces them in a hug. "I'm so glad you're home!" says Sunset, still holding them in the embrace. After a few minutes, she lets go of the embrace. "How was the trip?" "It went well," replies Sunburst. "Thanks for asking." "Why don't we go out to dinner tonight, just the three of us?" suggests Starlight. "That sounds perfect," replies Sunset. That night, the three go out to dinner and enjoy their food, stories, jokes, and laughs. The three have an all around merry evening and even go see a movie afterwards. The three have an amazing time at the movie and actually rather enjoyed themselves. After the movie, the three go home and Starlight and Sunburst go to their room and go to sleep and Sunset goes to her room to catch up on her reading and even writes a late night note to Celestia asking to see her again. Once the letter is written, Sunset nods off to sleep. She's tired, she's had a busy last five months and honestly, she'd have it no other way.
Chapter 17A year later, Starlight gives birth a healthy little unicorn filly with a light purple coat, blue eyes, and a blond yellow mane and tail with a pink streak in them. "She's so beautiful," says Sunburst. "I'm so glad to be a big sister!" exclaims Sunset. All the while, Starlight just smiles. She's glad to be a mother. The three go goo goo over the new member of the family and Sunset even smiles once she gets the chance to hold her little sister. "What are you going to name her?" The little filly giggles as Sunset tickles her on the chin. "Twinkle Glimmer," replies Starlight. "How about we drop the Glimmer and just call her Twinkle?" suggests Sunset. "Okay, her name is Twinkle, then," replies Starlight, happily taking Sunset's advice. Sunset continues to hold the little filly until she starts crying, then she hands her back over to Starlight. "I'm going to head out for a lunch date with some old friends," says Sunset, "I'll see y'all later!" "Okay," reply Sunburst and Starlight as Sunset heads out the door. "Have a good time!" "I will!" She then heads straight out the door and off to the Crystal Cafe. A few minutes later at the Crystal Cafe, Sunset talks with her friends, sharing stories and cracking jokes and just all around having a great time. The friends spend the rest of the day together including going to the Crystal Fair together that evening. Sunset is glad to have her childhood friends back at her side all the time, she's glad to be a big sister, everything is going her way and she couldn't ask for more than that by any stretch of the imagination, and for that, she is very grateful! Meanwhile back at their house, Starlight and Sunburst tend to their newborn daughter, Twinkle. Needless to say, they're stressed to the breaking point. They feed the little filly, change her diaper, burp her, but still she continues to cry. Sunburst then feels her horn. "Oh no! Her horn is hot again! She's about to shoot another beam of magic!" A beam of magic then shoots straight over their heads and knocks down one of their crystal vases from it's shelf. Sunburst then remembers the infantile magic control spell he cast on Flurry Heart when she was an infant. He goes and grabs the spell and then casts it on his daughter's horn, getting her magic under control at long last. He breathes a sigh of relief as does Starlight. They then go and put the sleeping filly down for her nap. A few minutes later, Sunset returns home and sees the mess all over the place. "Let me guess, the baby," says Sunset. "Yep," replies Starlight. "But we got it under control, she's sleeping in her room now. Just be careful of the broken vase at your feet." Sunset nods and steps over the broken vase at her feet and then dashes up the stairs to her bedroom to do some reading. She'll play with Twinkle more tomorrow. After all, she's a big sister now and as the big sister, it's her job to keep the baby smiling, laughing, and all around happy.
Chapter 20A few weeks later, Sunset returns to the human world for a brief visit of only one to two days. As soon as her friends see her pop through the portal, they all embrace her in a warm hug. "What all have I missed?" she asks. "Other than my sister in law Cadence having her baby, not much," replies Twilight. "Well, congratulations on that, I bet you love being an aunt!" replies Sunset. "I'm a big sister now myself. My little sister is named Twinkle." Sunset pulls out a picture and shows it to Twilight and the others. "She's adorable," says Fluttershy with wide eyes. The friends then go out to eat at the cafe up the road and chat for hours on end. They then go to the amusement park and ride all the coasters and play the carnival games and have an all around blast. Sunset is glad she came back, even though it's only for a day or two. Meanwhile in the Crystal Empire in the pony world, Starlight and Sunburst are out having lunch together while Twinkle is at a playdate with Flurry Heart. The two are glad to have the down time. The two talk, joke, and even go on a nice carriage ride around the empire. The two are so glad they married, so glad they now have a family together, they'd honestly have it no other way. A day later, Sunset returns through the portal, bearing a gift from each of her friends. She has a butterfly pin and a flower from Fluttershy, a bookmark from Twilight, a guitar pick from Rainbow Dash, a balloon and fresh baked cupcakes from Pinkie Pie, a beautiful diamond pin from Rarity, and an apple sapling from Applejack. She smiles as she takes these all inside and takes the sapling into the backyard and plants it. Sunset is so glad she still has friends in the other world as well as this one. She truly couldn't ask for anything better than that.
Chapter 21It's a new day and Sunset is about to get her family picture taken with her father, step mother, and little sister. She's excited. This'll be the first picture of all of them. Once her hair is fixed, she goes outside and joins the rest of her family, and the photographer takes their picture. He then takes some of just her, some of just her father and step mother, and some of just Starlight and her baby sister, and some of her with just Starlight and Twinkle. After several hours, all the pictures are taken and developed and given back to them to be framed. Sunset couldn't be happier. Now, she's officially part of her family once again and she'd have it no other way. Now, off to the Crystal Pony Ice Cream Shop for some nice, cold, delicious cones. The End PS: Also expect a sequel.
Chapter 18It's a new day when Sunset is woken by the sound of crying. She goes down the hall to the nursery and gently lifts little Twinkle out of her cradle and rocks her and sings her a lullaby that her father used to sing her. "Close your eyes, let sleep overtake you, the Crystal Heart's power will always protect you. Close your eyes, don't make a peep. Morning's far off, just get some sleep. Morning's far off, just get some sleep," coos Sunset. All of a sudden, the foal stops crying and Sunset lays her back down into the cradle and goes and sits in the rocker on the other side of the room and begins to read the book that is sitting there. It's a book her father used to read to her when she was little called My Fair Lady. She opens it and reads it, a smile appearing on her face. It was one of several of her favorite books as a child and reading it brings back several good memories for her including dressing up as the main character, Augusta Mane, whenever she was younger for Nightmare Night. A few hours later, Starlight enters the nursery is surprised to see Sunset in there but soon that shock turns into a sweet smile. Starlight goes over and looks over the crib of the sleeping filly. "Thanks for staying with her," says Starlight turning to Sunset. "Don't mention it," replies Sunset with a smile, "after all, what are big sister's for?" Starlight then leaves the room and returns back to bed. Sunset goes over and looks at the sleeping little Twinkle. She begins to sing the lullaby again. "Close your eyes, keep them shut, soon morning and magic and the love of the heart will be here to greet you with the song of morning sunshine. Close your eyes, keep them shut, soon morning, magic, and the love of the heart will be here to greet you." Sunset then goes and sits back down in the chair and continues to read the book once again. From now on, she'll make a habit of reading the stories of her childhood whenever she wakes up early enough to go and sit in on her baby sister.
Chapter 3After lunch, Sunset goes with Sunburst and Starlight to the castle. There, they are all greeted by Twilight, Cadence, Shining Armor, and a sleeping Flurry Heart, whom Cadence is holding in her hooves. Sunset smiles. "I didn't know you were an auntie," says Sunset to Twilight. "Well, there's a lot you didn't know about me," replies Twilight, "now, how'd today go?" "It went well," replies Sunset. "It's good to be home. I have no plans of leaving ever again." "Well, should you tell the human world's Mane Six that you're not returning?" asks Twilight puzzled. "Yeah, I probably should," replies Sunset. "I'll go back tomorrow and tell them. I promise." Once they exchange, Twilight says goodbye to her brother and his family and then goes with Sunset, Sunburst, and Starlight back to Ponyville for the day. A few hours later in Ponyville, the four arrive in Ponyville and are immediately greeted by Pinkie Pie with a great big hug. "It's so good to see you again!" says Pinkie hugging them in one great big group hug. The five then go off to Sugar Cube Corner where they soon find Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Rarity. All of them then sit down to a table together and enjoy free cupcakes courtesy of Pinkie Pie. After all, who doesn't enjoy talking over free cupcakes? "So," says Pinkie, "you're telling me there's a world where I'm a fourth wall breaking human?" "Yep," replies Sunset. "Cool," replies Pinkie. "Why'd you come back to the pony world then?" "Because this is where my father is, Sunburst is my father." "It's true," replies Sunburst. "Yeah, I see the similarities," reply Pinkie and Rainbow Dash. "The love of magic, the sun colored hair, the fact you're both unicorns with high standings." "Well, used to be high standing," says Sunset rubbing her neck. "Celestia hates my guts for trying to dethrone her." "Is that why you left?" asks Sunburst. "Yes," sighs Sunset bowing her head, "that's why I left. I had no choice in the matter. It was either leave or be tried with treason against the crown. Which would you rather choose? Don't answer that." "Had no plans on it," replies Sunburst. "I know how you feel," replies Starlight, "I used to have an entire town enslaved to my will." "Well, I'm glad some pony understands," replies Sunset with a faked smile on her face. They then change the conversation to something else and continue to chat for hours. Sunset, in all honesty, is just glad to be back home where she belongs.
Chapter 4A few hours later, everypony returns to Sugar Cube Corner after a mid meal burger smashing at Hayburger. How Sunset missed those overly ketchuped hayburgers! That's for certain. Back at Sugar Cube Corner, everypony enjoys a good laugh as Pinkie tells joke after joke after joke and Sunset shares stories from her time in the human world. Everything is going perfect until Twilight is summoned away by Princess Luna and Princess Celestia to tend to some royal business. At the Canterlot Castle, Celestia and Luna bring Twilight into the main hall and close the doors. "Why is Sunset back here?" asks a pissed off Celestia. "Because, don't you think you've banned her to the world of humans for long enough?" asks Twilight. "Perhaps you're right," sighs Celestia. "I sense there's something more, though," says Luna. "There is," replies Twilight, "she returned to see her father. Her father, Sunburst." "It was bound to happen eventually sister, you know that," says Luna to Celestia. "I know," replies Celestia, "she was bound to learn the truth about her father eventually. I just didn't think she'd ever return to reunite with him." "Why would you think that?" asks Luna puzzled. "Because, I thought she didn't care for any pony other than herself, clearly I was wrong." "You were, indeed, sister." "Please go easy on Sunset, she regrets what she's done and wants you to forgive her," says Twilight to Celestia. "I'll apologize to her, first thing tomorrow after I raise the sun." Twilight then takes this news and flies back to Ponyville where she tells it to Sunset. "Celestia is willing to apologize to you, first thing tomorrow after she raises the sun," says Twilight to Sunset. Sunset is pleased and leaps for joy. She's glad that Celestia has found it in her heart to forgive her and that's all she could ever really ask for.
Chapter 8A few hours later, Sunburst returns to his house and to Sunset Shimmer lounging and reading her newly purchased book on the couch. "How was your breakfast outing?" asks Sunset passively. "It went well, thank you," replies Sunburst. "Are you and Starlight close, like close close?" asks Sunset. "Yes, but that's understandable, she was my foalhood best friend and is now my marefriend," replies Sunburst. "Just curious, whatever happened to mom?" asks Sunset. Sunburst sighs, "she had a heart attack not long after you left us for your training with the princess." "I, I, I had no idea," replies Sunset running over and embracing her father in a hug with tears in her eyes, "I really and truly had no idea." "It's understandable that you had no idea, how would you know? Celestia wouldn't let you write to us that often since she had you busy doing lessons every hour of every day." The two continue to talk about things Sunset missed while under Celestia's tutelage for hours on end. By the end of it, Sunset knows a whole lot more not only about her father, but her deceased mother and Starlight as well. Sunset then bursts back into tears and Sunburst goes over and comforts her. He then gives her some space, so she can let it all soak in. She needs some time to herself, so Sunburst sees this as a good time to go spend some more time with Starlight. After all, he does have a surprise for her that he wants to share with her as soon as possible.
Chapter 10The next morning, Sunset goes to breakfast alongside Starlight and Sunburst. Once they arrive at the cafe, they are shown to their seats by the waiter who then brings them three cups of coffee. He then brings them menus and gives them a few minutes to order. A few minutes later, he walks over and takes their orders, three oatmeals. As they eat their oatmeals, the three talk. "So," says Sunset, "anything you two want to tell me?" "Yes," the two squeal, "we're engaged!" "It's about time," replies Sunset with a grin, "I'm happy for you dad! When's the wedding?" "In a few months," he replies with a glowing smile on his face. "Will you be my little flower girl?" "Of coarse I will, dad," giggles Sunset, "I'd be glad to." The three get back to enjoying their oatmeal and once they finish it up, they pay at the counter then leave the cafe. The three then head off to the Museum of the Crystal Heart for the afternoon. After all, Sunset can't help but admit, it was her favorite place to come when she was a filly. In fact, she still enjoys going there. That's one thing that will never change. She'll always be her father's over curious little dearest. The three stroll around the museum and look at all the artifacts relating to the empire and the Crystal Heart for hours on end including a fascinating scroll of a prophesy of a princess born with magic endowed her by the heart upon her conception, in other words, the prophesy foretelling Cadence's birth. They end up staying at the museum until its closing time before finally being kicked out along with the rest of the meanderers. Sunset is thankful that she got to spend some more quality time with her father and step mother to be. After all, Starlight is going to be a part of the family soon, so she might as well get to know her.
Chapter 13Meanwhile, Sunburst and Starlight are enjoying a beautiful afternoon in Filicy. They're drinking wine and eating grapes as they watch the sunrise. The two couldn't be happier. They're glad to be married. Alas, Starlight can't help but feel Sunset doesn't quite care for her. "Does your daughter hate me?" asks Starlight. "No, of coarse not," replies Sunburst, "she just needs time to adjust is all." "I hope you're right." The two end the conversation at that. She leans her head on his shoulder. Sunburst smiles at her. The two then get back to enjoying their picnic as they continue to watch the sun. Back in the Crystal Empire, Sunset is out shopping for some new decorations for her bedroom. While she's at the furniture store, Sunset runs into an old friend of hers. That friend's name is Angel Hair. "Hey Angel Hair," says Sunset to the cream colored pegasus. "Hey to you too, Sunset, how have you been? Do you want to go get lunch and catch up?" replies Angel Hair. "Sure," replies Sunset. After making their purchases, the two head outside and grab a cab and head to the new Crystal Heart Cafe. Once at the Crystal Heart Cafe, the two sit down at their table. The two then order two lemonades and then begin to chat. "Where have you been for the last five years?" asks Angel Hair curiously. "Stuck in a world where all ponies are humans and all dragons are dogs," replies Sunset, "believe me, it's not as weird as it sounds." "Oh, I believe you, you're the most trustworthy pony I know," replies Angel, "after all, Sunset, you're my best friend." "So you don't care that I'm not the most trustworthy pony?" "Oh, not at all! That's not who you are now. How's your father? I heard he's newly married." "Dad is good, he's happy to be married to Starlight," replies Sunset. "That's good, I bet you love that, huh?" responds Angel Hair. "Yeah," replies Sunset, "I am happy for him." The waiter then comes out and takes their order. Angel Hair orders her personal favorite, carrot potato soup with dumplings. Sunset orders a daisy stuffed hay burger with a dandelion salad. A few minutes later, the waiter returns with their food and the two continue to talk as they eat their lunches. The two talk for several more hours before finally parting ways. Sunset is just glad she got to catch up with Angel Hair and Angel Hair is just glad she got to catch up with Sunset. After all, Sunset was gone for five years. Back at her father's house, Sunset gets right to work on redecorating her room. With her magic, she manages to get it done within five minutes time. She then goes outside for a nice walk down to the fair grounds to play darts for a few hours. It's a great way for her to relax and destress before her friend Caramel Creme's birthday party tomorrow. Author's Note Filicy=Sicily
Chapter 16The next morning, Starlight and Sunburst are talking in their bedroom while Sunset is snooping outside their door. She ends up hearing some things she has a feeling she wasn't supposed to hear until later. "Sunburst, my sunshine, should we tell her?" "Tell her what?" asks Sunburst. "That you managed to get me pregnant over the last month of our honeymoon," replies Starlight. "We'll tell her tonight at dinner," responds Sunburst. "Okay," replies Starlight. A few minutes later, Sunburst leaves the room, clueless that Sunset was listening in to everything he and Starlight were saying. After all, he doesn't care since he thought they were talking in private. He goes to the kitchen and begins to make breakfast for the three of them. As he does, Sunset just watches him from behind her book that she's reading at the kitchen table. "Good morning, dad," says Sunset, closing her book. "Good morning, sweetheart," Sunburst replies. He then brings her plate over to him with his magic and plops some pancakes and fresh fruit onto it and sends it back over to her with his magic once again. A few minutes later, Starlight comes out and sits at the kitchen table and he makes her a plate and sends it over to her with his magic. He then brings over his own plate with his magic and sits down at the table with them. The three then enjoy their breakfast. After breakfast, the three go out and down to the Crystal Pier and enjoy playing carnival games, riding coasters, and riding the Ferris wheel for several hours. The three have a blast and even go out for lunch and ice cream afterwards. They're such a happy family and they'd have it no other way. Sunburst is glad his daughter is warming up to Starlight. It really puts a wide smile on his face. That afternoon, the three return to the house for a few hours before going to have dinner with Cadence, Shining Armor, Twilight, Celestia, and Luna. At dinner with Shining and the and princesses, they share stories and laughs and have an all around good time. After all, who wouldn't enjoy a dinner made by Celestia herself? Celestia is a good cook, they can all agree to that, especially Luna. They all continue to talk for several hours before parting ways. Two hours later, back at their house, Sunburst and Starlight break the news to Sunset. "Honey, we have something to tell you," says Sunburst, "now don't freak out!" "We're expecting a foal!" exclaims Starlight. "I already knew, I kind of snooped outside your door this morning," replies Sunset, finally letting the truth out, "but I'm happy about it just the same. I can't wait to be a big sister. Honestly, I can't." Sunburst surprisingly doesn't get mad at Sunset and tells her that it's okay and tells her she still needs to go to her bedroom and consider how much snooping undermines privacy. Sunset agrees and goes off to her room. She knows her father has the right to punish her, she did wrong after all. On the upside, though, at least now she can read in pure silence.
Chapter 19That afternoon, while she's alone, while Starlight is off nursing Twinkle and her father is off at work, Sunset takes a breather and takes her journal, goes and sits outside, and writes a note to her friends in the human world. 'Dear Twilight, Rainbow, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie, guess what happened recently? I became a big sister and I'm so thrilled. Also, my father married Starlight a year ago, but that's no shocker since the two were childhood friends. How is everything going over there? I miss y'all. Sunset' A few hours later while out at lunch at the Crystal Heart Cafe, Sunset gets a response. She opens the journal and reads it. "Dear Sunset," she reads, "we're glad that you're happy. Congratulations on the whole big sister thing. Rarity and Applejack especially say treat your little sister well because you never know when they'll grow up and be out of your life forever. Come back and visit sometime whenever you get the chance. Rainbow and the Crew". Sunset smiles as she looks at the note for one more brief moment before putting it back in her bag. A few minutes later, Sunset is joined by Angel Hair. "Good to see you again," says Sunset, greeting her friend in a warm embrace. "Honey, we had lunch together a few days ago," replies Angel Hair. Sunset lets go and Angel takes her seat. The two then order two coffees and talk for several hours. "So, I heard that you're a big sister now, what's your baby sister's name?" asks Angel Hair. "Yeah, I'm a big sister now and I absolutely love it. My baby sister's name is Twinkle," replies Sunset with a smile. She pulls out a picture of her holding little Twinkle and shows it to Angel Hair. "Well, she's adorable," replies Angel Hair. "Yeah, I'm so lucky," replies Sunset. "That you are." The two then take a sip of coffee before continuing their conversation. The two continue to talk for hours on end before finally parting ways. Sunset returns to her home and her step mother and Angel Hair goes to pick up her child from daycare. Everything is perfect for Sunset, her life can only go up hill from here, and she'd honestly have it no other way.
