Shimmering Hope

by TheBlueRogue

Rating: mature
Tags: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, RWBY, Sad, Fluttershy (EqG), Other, Original Character, Equestria Girls, Mystery, Suicide / Self Harm, Violence, Principal Celestia, Slice of Life, Death, Human, Sunset Shimmer, Gore
Length: 52962

Sunset Shimmer can't bare to live in this hateful world anymore. Will she give up or can she be saved. Will this flame of hope shimmer no longer?

This story follows Sunset Shimmer as she tackles with her trauma of the Anon-A-Miss event and after a reminder of her past, she has set out into the cold winter night to end it all. However, fate tends to be a tricky thing, and maybe a guardian shall send some aid her way. Will this aid come to her in time, and what will happen as Sunset find that the human world has more to it than she ever thought?

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This is my first attempt at a story. It may jump from perspective and may not be that good, but I gave it my best. I was inspired by several other stories like this. Almost Too Late by Final Sunlight is a big part of the main setting. This video by P.M Seymour Deadpool: "Dont Jump" [Voiced] is also a great inspiration and I loosely based the first chapter on that video. I shall recommend you look at both works, for they are very well done. I shall always credit those who have inspired me in the Author's note for any continuing chapters. I have ideas on how this can continue, but for now I shall see how well it does.

Published 2020-01-24 23:30:01 UTC
Last updated 2022-11-18 19:41:16 UTC

An Unexpected Savior

A lone girl walks the snow-covered streets of Canterlot City. She shivers as the cold bites at her bare hands and neck. She keeps her leather jacket closed as she walks the empty sidewalks, her breath visible in the moonlight. She enters the park, as it is still and silent. She treads on the freshly fallen snow, as the moon shines brightly above her. The park is eerie and majestic, with snow covered trees swaying in the breeze.

She takes it all in, standing out with her fiery hair and dark attire. She wipes away the nearly frozen tears off her cheek, as she sits on a bench in the middle of the park. Her hands shake from more than just the shivers rattling her body, as she succumbs to her pain. She couldn't take it anymore, after everything she did, all her hard work and dedication to get better, shattered and tossed aside due to some stupid blog. Her five best friends, no the entire school, just so easily believed and hated her due to falsehoods.

She pulls out a pocket knife, its red and orange cover shining in the light of the moon. She opens it, and stares at the blade. No one would believe her, no one really cared or loved her, and even when the culprits were discovered, no one but the three apologized, as if they did nothing wrong. Hell even AJ’s idea of a punishment is not justice, and they then had the nerve to invite her to a slumber party at AJ’s house. She feels her tears fall from her cheeks, as their words echo in her mind.

She rolls up her sleeve, as she looks at her other attempts, the sideways marks of her always deciding not to finish the job. She now aims her blade length wise, as she shutters and remembers how Fluttershy looked at her, her tear filled eyes and puffy cheeks, she hears those words so clearly. “You… betrayed me Sunset… h-how could you?” Those words make her stop.. The blade an inch away. She feels hate and guilt, as her eyes blurred with tears. She never notices a single jet black crow landing on the bench, silently as strange amber eyes look at her. She shutters, and looks up and away from her arm. “I never did Shy ...I never did.” She closes her eyes as she puts the blade to her arm and feels some fluid on her skin, yet no pain.

She opens them, and comes face to face with a pale skinned man, with amber eyes and a black suit on. His hair is ginger, as he smiles at her. She then sees, his hand enclosed on the knife, his hand bare as she sees his blood drip onto her arm. “Huh..how..why?” She is beyond confused, as she feels a sudden chill run up her spine.

The Stranger smiles at her. “How? That is simple, I walked and grabbed the knife. Why is harder to explain. So, why don’t I take this and we go someplace to chat kid.” His voice is calm and cool, yet full of warmth and care. She is still cautious, as she lets go of the knife but moves away from him. He nods, sitting down next to her as he removes the knife from his injured hand. It bleeds badly, as she sees him clean and pocket her knife.

He looks back at her, that smile still present. “My name is Xavier, and well, lets just say I was passing through and saw you here, so I came to investigate. I must say I came just in time from the looks of it. So, Miss, why are you out here trying to end it all?” He asks calmly, as he put a glove on his injured hand. Sunset, is shocked and worried, as she looks at this strange man. His paleness contrasting against his jet black suit, those bright amber eyes standing out, like they are glowing. He is unsettling, his sudden arrival and very cheerful manner seem forced and yet he shows no signs of pain from his injury.

He crosses a leg over the other, and looks at her. “I know what your thinking, ‘Why should I trust you?’ Well, maybe because I have nothing to gain or lose from you dying here, I shouldn’t care, yet I do. I care because, truthfully, I hate seeing people die. It is sad, the lost potential and a waste of a life.” He sighs, his breath barely visible in the light of the moon. Sunset looks at him, and decides she may just play along till he lets her go, maybe she can find another way to end her miserable life. “So, why the hell are you out here, why in public? Just, talk to me, and if your still wanting to end it, than you can. However, this means a last supper for you, and don’t worry, I’m buying.” He stands up, and smiles at her, those white teeth fit his pale skin and lips.

Sunset shakes her head. “No, I’m fine, your already helped enough.” She lies as she feels he maybe trying to take advantage of her. 'Targeting the helpless for an easy catch. Well, I am going to at least keep my dignity a bit longer.'

Xavier looks at her, as he sighs again then kneels before her. “Miss Shimmer, that wasn’t an offer, it was a request. So please follow me, I know a good place to eat at. A small family run restaurant, they make amazing tea.” Sunset is shocked, he knows her name, has he been stalking her, does it matter, after all, no one would believe her. She stands and shivers, accepting her fate now. “Just… no meat.” She manages to say as she hugs herself, the cold making her shake violently. He nods, as he quickly gives her his jacket. “Don’t worry, it has a plethora of vegan options.”

They walk together, as they reach a very fancy car, with dark black paint and no sign of snow on it. It is no sports car, but it is clearly for the rich. He opens her door and makes sure she is alright before getting in and starting the car. The interior is ebony and gold, with blue lights eliminating its interior. Sunset sees his still gloved hand grasp the wheel. “What about… your hand?”

Xavier looks at his gloved, the black leather stretching as he moves it weakly. “Please Miss Shimmer, it is not a problem.” He reverses and drives into the heart of the city. They see people out celebrating the holiday, a great contrast to the serenity and eerie park. Soon she finds herself at a store, as he buys her better clothes and for some reason, everyone assumes he is her father. He jokes and smiles, as she feels confused. Maybe he is just trying to trick her still, but a part of her hopes he is actually just a nice guy. That hope turns to guilt as she thinks about how much he will waste on her. As she tries it on, she looks in the mirror she sees her red cheeks and red tearful eyes. She notes that his ginger hair looks like her own, yet she is more colorful than him. She wonders if he may be sick, due to his pale complexion, which looks ghostly white inside the store. They continue on, walking around a bit, until she sees others from her school. She panics and hides herself, as Xavier decides to take another path and they go into another store. He keeps on buying her clothes, for all seasons as most of the staff talk to him as if he was her dad. Xavier keeps her from knowing exactly how much he spends, nor does he let her go cheap. She goes with it, guilt slowly building as she keeps a rough total in her head. She keeps her wrists covered at all times, and she sighs when she sees a family shopping or walking about, or couples enjoying the night.

They soon reach a very cozy looking restaurant, and as they enter, she hears smooth jazz play as she smells fresh bread and sweets. He goes over and talk to the Hostess, as she nods, he then walks back over. “Go pick a seat, I’ll be right back.” He goes out the door and stands out front. Sunset can no longer take it, she decides to apologize for wasting his time and say she can not pay for anything, and see what he does at that. She goes and sits down, a waiter handing her a menu and a list of teas. Sunset sighs, and waits for Xavier to return. She now has a fluffy winter coat that goes to her knees, boots, and a scarf. She removes the scarf and her coat, folding them neatly next to her. She looks down as she digs at her wrist and feels her freshest scab open, her warm blood seeps out slowly as she feels so bad for ruining this man's attempts to help her.

Xavier walks over and sits down across from her, he opens his menu and smiles at her. “So, you can order as mu-” Sunset pushes his menu down, as she looks apologetically at him. “No, you have been very kind, but.. I can’t let you spend anymore money on me. I, I can’t repay you.. Sorry. You can return the clothes and all later. I’ll just go home an-” Xavier
interrupts her as he puts his menu down and speaks in a clear and stern voice. “Sunset Shimmer, I have spent a total of 3,211 dollars on you, and I expect you to pay me back.” He glares at her with his amber orbs, as if what she says is breaking the law.

She stares at him in shock, worry and guilt stir in her stomach as she sweats at the amount. 'How could I ever repay him? I have no job, will he ask me to work for him? Is this some trap? Maybe this really was too good to be true.' Xavier snaps her out of her thoughts with a snap of his fingers. She shakes her head and looks at him. “You can start, by answering my questions, then by listening to me.” He waves a hand, and suddenly the waitress delivers two fresh cups of tea and two massive bowls of steaming vegan stir fry. She smiles and walks off, as the smells hit Sunset and her stomach growls. She ignores her hunger and just stares at him, speechless. He looks at her, his eyes warm yet stern, like of a father or guardian. Sunset stutters and is very confused by all of this. “I-I… why do y-” Xavier hods up his pale hand to silence her. “No, I ask first, and I want honest answers please.” Sunset nods, as she looks down, feeling like Princess Celestia herself is judging her again.

Xavier takes a breath, as Sunset waits for him to begin. “Why in public?” He looks at her inquisitively, she feels his eyes stare straight at her soul.

She sighs, and she swallow a lump in her throat. “T-to show that… they caused this, all of them, didn’t believe me and treated me so... so badly over lies from a stupid blog.” She tries to keep her voice down, not wanting others to hear.

Xavier nods, though his reaction is not one Sunset expected, he seems underwhelmed by this. “That is a very lackluster reason for them to act like that, the internet is full of lies. However, I think there is more to that than you say. Tell me, do you have a past involved with harming others?” He speaks calmly, in a logical manner, and takes a sip from his cup of tea.

Sunset sighs, and just lets her word flow. “Yes but, I am reformed, I have helped out and worked myself to exhaustion, helping those I wronged and trying to show I am better than my past self, and yet, all it takes is a stupid blog to ruin all of it. My best friends even believed it, after everything we have been through. They didn't even let me explain a single thing…. Even Fluttershy believed it.” Sunset sips her tea, using her uninjured hand to drink. The sweetness of honey with the slight tang of the blend helps calm her nerves some.

Xavier nods, as he thinks for a moment. “Well then, you must find the ones behind it.” He sips his tea again, as Sunset groans and glares a bit at him.

“Already happened.. Yet, those three apologize, but no one else does, not even my friends. In fact, they have the audacity to invite me to a slumber party so casually. I showed up, expecting an apology party, only to walk in on them talking about me, laughing and bring up the past. I just… left, not a word to any of them. I didn’t even take my bag.” She sighs, as Xavier nods, eating some of his food.

He swallows and wipes his face. “Yes, well that is all very sad and unfortunate, however, Miss Shimmer I fi-” Sunset stops him mid-sentence with a raised hand. “Hold it, how do you even know my name?” She nearly yelled, as him somehow knowing her name without her telling him is unsettling, her old ideas about him return to the forefront of her mind.

Xavier sighs, as his entire demeanor changes. “Because,... well I am not from around here per say.” He takes his glove off, and Sunset sees his hand is fully healed, not even a scar remains. “I am… as hard as it is to believe, Death. I tend to just wait and have these chats when people are dead… but your not a person. Your not from here either, so I intervened and now here we are, two other worlders having a chat.” Sunset, thinks about this, she read about the manifestation of death in some old books back in Equestria. 'But they described it as a bone pale pony, who wore a black cloak and usually had a mane of blue fire. Now he sort of fits it, but he has ginger hair and seems to alive to be Death. Maybe this world has their own -no the human world has no real magic, so they can't have Death like we have in Equestria.' Yet, she has evidence before her, his hand is healed, and now that she thinks about it, he barely even breathes, and he is in a rather thin suit for this weather. He never once complained of being cold, and she remember how cold his hand was. There is also his mere presence, as her mind realizes that even as a human, her body warns her he is very powerful and something she should be careful around.

Sunset sighs, as she is still unsure if he speaks the truth. “If your really death, which is hard to believe, than prove it.” She drinks some more of her tea and looks at the food, waiting for him to respond.

Xavier takes a moment, as he sets his cup down and holds his head in his hands. “Applejack’s parents died in a car crash on I-89 when a truck swerved into their lane, died instantly. They are buried on the farm under the old apple tree with their initials carved into it. Your mother miscarried once before you were born, male, three weeks to early. Finally, you have tried and failed to kill yourself 23 times, mostly cutting but two were attempts at hanging yourself.”

Sunset, blinks and shutters as she takes that in. Sure, anyone could figure those first two out, with a lot of research and asking the right people or ponies. However, only she knows how many times she has tried. “You… alright, but if your death than why stop me?” She genuinely is confused as to why Death itself, no himself, would want to stop someone from dying.

Xavier sighs deeply, his face going stern and his body tenses a bit. “Like I said earlier, I hate seeing a life wasted. I want to meet all mortals like an old friend, peacefully and calmly guiding them to the after, or meeting them as my reapers bring them for judging. I have tea and chat with them, then send them on their way. You however, you have so much ahead of you, you just need help my dear child.” Sunset nods, but looks ashamed. Xavier straightens up and gets her attention with a wave of his hand. “Now, eat and I’ll take you someplace safe for the night, but know this my dear, sometimes you just need to talk to someone… and other times, someone needs to talk for you.” He begins to eat again, as Sunset takes it all in, her wrist still bleeding a little, for she did not stop picking at the scab. Xavier sighs, as Sunset feels a cold on her wrist, as her wound closes. “Just relax and eat Sunset, I promise you I am not tricking you. ” He smiles and for once, Sunset feels that she can truly trust him.

Sunset nods and grabs her spoon as she takes a scoop of food. “Alright, but… you can just drop me off at the Homeless shelter, I have a friend there who will accommodate me.” Xavier nods, and they eat their meal and enjoy the delicious tea.

An hour passes, as Sunset sits in the car, as Xavier drives them someplace. He had pulled out a laptop and showed her a movie as she ate, than paid the bill. They had a small chat as he drove, though she was feeling tired and was hoping the shelter could accommodate her tonight. He smiles as they pull up to a hospital. Sunset notices the old van Fluttershy has, and Principal Celestia’s car next to it.

Sunset is livid, as she glares daggers at Xavier. “You lied! You said you would take me to the shelter!” She yells at him, feeling betrayed and mortified that those who betrayed her are here. ‘How do they know, did he tell them? Did he plan this all out?’ Her mind races with thoughts and ways to get away from them.

Xavier looks at her, with those caring amber orbs. “Sunset, look, I am death, reaper of souls. I am not really cut out for helping others. I am trying to do better, I really am. Honestly I am not in my element right now. But, the doctors and staff here are amazing. I have been in touch with them all night, and your friends. In fact Celestia even called me and asked if you were alright. Look, Sunset Shimmer, they are all worried about you, they care for you deeply.” His honesty and matter of fact tone makes that information stick in her head.

Sunset shakes, feeling his words crash through her rage, and numb her hate. She sighs as her voice is weak and her mind foggy. “Yeah but… they betrayed me, hurt me, b-broke my heart.” She shutters a bit, keeping her gaze on the new boots she has to avoids looking up and into the building, as she does not want to see her former friends.

Xavier gently rubs her shoulder, reassuring her and making her shutter less. “Heartbreak and pain may hurt, but to overcome and survive is what makes you mortals amazing. While you may still want to do it… I know deep down, you want to be saved. So, can you walk with me in and at least talk to them? Just tell them what you have told me, after all, I have told them what I know, now you must speak for yourself."

Sunset sighs, as she curls up in the new coat he bought her. She looks out the window, and sees Celestia and the girls, looking so worried. Fluttershy is staring down, being hugged by Dash and Celestia. AJ has her hat tipped over her face. Pinkie is not smiling, her hair flat and looks dull. Rarity's makeup is messed up as she side hugs Pinkie. Dash's face is not visible, but Sunset can tell she is probably crying too. She sighed, as she looks at Xavier, his old eyes showing compassion and warmth, so strange for Death to have such warm eyes. “Sure, you can walk me in.” He nods, as he helps her out, and grabs her bags, they walk in, as the others gasp and approach her. Celestia and a short man in a sweater and coat walks over to Xavier. They talk about something, but the girls make it hard for her to hear.

Fluttershy soon hugs Sunset, as if to confirm she is really there. “W-we heard from.. Mr. Xavier… and.. I..I just want to know… h-how long have you been… suffering?” Sunset hugs her, as she tells them everything, leaving nothing out. Principal Celestia and the Doctor both overhear it. Sunset lets her words flow out, as she breaks down in Shy's embrace. They all feel ashamed and apologize profusely, as Fluttershy never lets her go. The others all hug and comfort Sunset, as she slowly feels better, but those feelings of guilt and anger still remain. Celestia walks over and sits her down, as the girls stand aside.

Celestia looks awkward and thinks for a moment, that sighs. “Sunset, I… am sorry I did not listen to you, nor did I prevent the students from harming you. I… hope you can forgive me.”

Sunset looks at her Principal, knowing what to say. “I can try to, but after you refused to listen to me.. It may take some time.” She sighs as she looks down, as she sniffles and hiccups.

Celestia nods, and gently rubs her back to try and help her calm down. “I.. understand. But now, Dr. Wolf and the others will check you over, and…. Sunset, if you need a place to stay, you can come and live with me and Luna. We have a large home, and we have space for you. I know it may be weird, especially after what I have done.. But I want to help you… I have viewed you like a daughter since I met you. If you refuse, I understand, just know you will always be welcomed in our home, so you won't have to sleep in a park or the school again.”

Sunset, is taken aback, but this news makes her so happy, she nods and hugs her Principal. “Thank you, I do need a place to stay. But, you don't have to do this. As long as… you will have me, I will do chores and help you to pay for it.” She hugs her weakly and strangely, unsure how she would respond.

Celestia is shocked, and takes a moment to collect herself as she wonders if she should hug her back. “Yes, we will. All you would have to do is help us with chores and to stay in school. You won't need to actually pay us anything, not now nor ever. I actually planned on asking you sooner, as I was told about your homelessness once you became a student. However, the blog incident had Luna doubt, as did I. I am ashamed I thought less of you, I should of listened to you and helped you. I know you will need time to even consider forgiving me, just know I am here for you.” Celestia decides to hug Sunset back, still rubbing her back in small circles. The girls cheer quietly as they know their friend has a home to stay in.

Sunset pulls back and looks at her Principal. “Thank you so much Princs- Principal Celestia. I forgive you for it, if you will forgive me for everything I did.” Sunset chuckles slightly, for almost calling her Princess. They may be their counterparts, but this Celestia is so much more approachable than the Princess, and Sunset find her easier to talk to.

Celestia nods as she smiles at Sunset. “I already forgave you for your past Sunset, and you can call me Celestia when out of school.” Sunset nods, as the doctors come over and help her to a room, Celestia staying with her, as the others sit and wait. Xavier simply take a seat and leans back, pulling out a small blue book to read.

-6 days later-

Sunset sits in her new home, as more surprises had occurred. Celestia had her sign some papers, and today she learned they were not just health forms and new residence papers, but adoption papers. She was now her daughter and both Luna and Celestia cared for her and respected her. Luna had apologized in many different ways for ever doubting her, and both have gotten along very well as both her new mom and aunt help her get settled in. Dr. Wolf has greatly helped her mental health as she goes to him every day during the break. She no longer feels the desire to cut or harm herself as often as she did before, has regained a positive self-image of herself, and she even began making her scars into art via tattoos. She has a special one on her right arm, a black crow with amber eyes. She saw it in a book, and it reminded her of Xavier. She has not seen him since he said goodbye at the hospital, and she wonders if he would come back. She lays in her new bed, under warm blankets and enjoys the warmth. The night sky is lightly cloudy, but the moon still shines into her room. She then heard a tapping on the glass. She gets up and opens it, only to see something in the window box outside. She opens the window and plucks a set of keys on a key-chain, with a strange charm on it. Then she notices something new in the driveway. A Harley Motorcycle, with a fiery paint job sits there. She grabs the keys and runs down stairs, putting her slippers on and the coat Xavier bought her. She runs out the door and check it out. A note rests on the seat.

”Dear Sunset,

I have heard and seen you are getting better, and since I know you liked the motorcycle in that movie we watched, I decided to buy you one. Think of it as my present to you. It is fully insured under my false name, and paid for. It is custom made too, will last longer and shall be a breeze to handle. Make sure your mother and aunt are alright with this. I hope you keep getting better, and I only hope when I see you again, we can talk over tea.No spoilers about your life, but maybe offer that shy girl a ride once your experienced at riding. Anyways, thank you for helping this dusty old crow do some good in this world. I now see a new way to walk this mortal world, talking to those like you, and at least making them think and possibly reconsider like you did. You have given me hope, maybe I can make a difference and actually do some good. Thank you Miss Shimmer, for making me be happy to walk the mortal world.

Sincerely, Xavier

P.S. You have bike gear and a helmet inside under the tree. The gear is in a blue gift box and the helmet has blue wrapping paper on it. Also, the bike does not need gas, so no need to waste money.”

Sunset smiles at the note, as she then goes back inside and opens the garage, she then pulls her bike in, and locks up. She then grabs her gear and makes sure it is all there. She smiles and waits for Celestia to come check on why she is up. All the while a jet black crow, with bright amber eyes, watches her. ‘Be good kid, and live a fantastic life.’ The crow flies off into the night, as he feels so much warmer knowing he actually saved a life rather than take one. Maybe he needs to do that more often. He smiles as he goes off into the cold winter night.

Will this be the only time our Heroine meets Death before she dies? Will she manage to live a better life now that she has the beginnings of a home and a family. Is everything truly so easily fixed. And what of the rest of her schoolmates and teachers? It is unclear what may happen for Sunset Shimmer, for her future is full of mystery and surrounded in a veil of fog. However, she has a fire in her that shall help light her path through the darkness, it only depends on her to keep the flame alive. Now that is all I can say, remember to be kind to each other, and remember to always bring warmth to others in your life, and be their fire in the cold winter night.

Author's Note

I hope you enjoyed reading this work. I had my friend Redhairsaiyan aid me in editing this story. Like the description says, I may continue this story, but for now it shall remain as its own until I see how it does. Also you may comment any corrections or issues you may have, but do so politely. This is has been fun to write, and do know that Sunset is my personal favorite character. This has been BlueX, have a great day/night.
-End of Line-

Nightmares and Daydreams

Author's Note

Again thank you diablo4000 for inspiring this chapters. Their ideas inspired me to write this chapter. They also have wonderful ideas that I shall be using to base my next two or so chapters on. Now Remember, PM me to give me ideas, and I shall credit you in the note. Thanks again to my friend Redhairsaiyan for editing this with me. I hope you all enjoy this chapter of Shimmering Hope. Also, if anyone could make a cover for this story that would be greatly appreciated, and I will credit you in the updated Story Info.

Nightmares and Daydreams

Principal Celestia walks back into her home, having just gotten back from the Hospital. Sunset was doing well and Dr. Wolf had his best team of nurses and doctors on her case, making sure she was alright throughout the night. She refused to go home at first, but was reminded by Dr. Wolf that she needed to rest, and he knows from experience one should not try to sleep in the hospital chairs. She reluctantly left, promising Sunset she would return early in the morning. 'It is currently 11 o'clock, so the visiting and check out opens at 9 o'clock sharp. So I will need to wake up at 7:30 at the latest to make sure I get there without rushing.' She continues to think as she hangs up her winter coat and sets her boots on the rug.

She shivers a bit, the floor cold on her feet. She moves swiftly into the living area. She smiles, at the family picture hanging over the fireplace, the Christmas tree all decorated and lit up. She sees the small pile of presents she and Luna had gotten each other. 'Christmas is only 6 days away, maybe we can get something for Sunset by then.' Celestia notices her sister's absence on the couch. When she left, which felt like ages ago but was only close to an hour, her dear little sister was on the couch, as they both were talking about her idea to adopt Sunset. Luna was cautious, not feeling she could ever face the teen again.

That was when Fluttershy called her, 'To think, such a quiet girl has such anger and fire.' Celestia remembers that call, at first confused, than trying to reason as her own guilt crept up on her. Then.... the words that made her and Luna freeze, "PRINCIPAL CELESTIA! SUNSET ISN'T HERE, SHE LEFT... AND SHE JUST TRIED TO KILL HERSELF!" Those words still ring in her head. She took action, running to the car as Luna stayed, unable to move as she broke down. 'I'll check on her before going to bed.' Celestia walks and checks her things for tomorrow, then locks up and heads to her sister's room. She opens the door, as she sees her fast asleep. She is wrapped up like a cocoon on her queen sized bed.

Celestia smiles, as she shuts the door. 'She is asleep, so we will talk before I go. Maybe she will come with me to get her.' She walks to her room, which is equal in size and layout. She got herself ready for tomorrow, setting her alarm and changing into her nightgown. She shivered slightly, as she crawled into her bed, wrapping up as the warmth is trapped by the blankets. She smiles, thinking about tomorrow, as sleep slowly takes her.

Celestia soon opens her eyes, but finds herself standing up. She is looking at Sunset Shimmer, still on a stretcher. Her heart grows cold, as she sees a nurse place a cloth over her. The stretcher moves away, as she looks around confused. She finds herself in the park, right where Xavier said he found Sunset. There is bloody snow next to a bench, as she sees the girls all present. They all seem mortified, as Fluttershy cries and clings to Dash. Celestia feels cold, as she tries to speak but can't. She then feels weightless, as the dream shifts around her like a cloud of colored smoke.

She finds herself next to Sunset, in the hospital, as she hears her own words replay. Sunset glares at her, and nearly shouts, "You think I want to live with you? You let this happen to me! I trusted you, I LOOKED UP TO YOU! YOU DID THIS!" Sunset suddenly begins to bleed from her wrists and neck, as Celestia sees her face go lifeless. She falls over, in shock as the body spasms out in front of her. It goes from Sunset Shimmer, to her sister with a noose around her neck. Celestia screams out, as the dreams shatter around her.

She wakes up panting, jolting up and nearly slams her head into Luna's. Luna jolts back, nearly falling out of bed as Celestia looks frantically around, then pulls Luna closer. She looks at her neck, checking for any marks. 'No no no, please no.' She finds none, as she calms down a bit, but she tries to grab her phone. Luna stops her, as she grabs her hand. "I have already called them, Tia, she is asleep and safe." Celestia nods, as she feels the tears flow down her cheeks.

Luna is crying, her eyes red as she shakes a bit. Celestia realizes why she would call. "You.... had a nightmare didn't you Lu?" Her sister nods, as she wipes a tear off her face. "Yes I.. did.... It was horrible. I was... making an announcement.. of her funeral... and... I couldn't stop speaking it. I told them everything about her, her lack of family here, her loss of friends... then... everyone just moved on. The five all stayed angry and soon dropped out, as Mr. Sentry played a song in her honor at the funeral. She.. she could have died Tia... she really could have died. If it weren't for Mr. Xavier's actions, she could have died."

Celestia nods, as she slowly realizes with growing dread, how close they were to losing such a bright young student. No, not just close, literally mere moments away from losing her. It took a total stranger, who is not of their world, to save her. She remembers Xavier's words to her, as she feels a chill run down her spine. "She had it right at her arm, and if I didn't catch it when I did, or even got involved, she would be dead within minutes. Tonight, she was lucky I took a walk in the moonlight." Luck. They were lucky this time, but how long would luck keep Sunset alive? No, she ran out of luck this night, they all know that. Sunset needed something more than luck to keep her going now, she needed a safe home, and.. a family.

Celestia looks at her sister, as tears flow from her eyes. "Lu, I have to say.... we were lucky this time. If it wasn't for Mr. Xavier taking a walk, nor his rush to help, she would be dead. She was moments away, as he told me. Sunset, accepted our offer, to live with us. But, we could have lost her twice tonight. Once when she tried to take her own life, the other when I offered to come live with us. I...had a nightmare of both... and... the last one... of you." Luna looks down, as she shivers.

Luna slowly moves closer to her sister, as Celestia hugs her, making sure to avoid pulling on her too hard. "You know... after.... the incident, I haven't tried again."

Celestia nods, slowly rubbing her sisters back. "Yes, but... this reminds me of you. High school bullying, name calling, except this time, no relatives adding to that abuse. This is why I wanted to make sure Sunset has a safe home, we both know what living alone or in a bad home is like. And I promise, I won't tell her about it, you can do so when your ready sister." Luna nods, and hugs her sister back. 'If only I realized it sooner, and if only my irrational false beliefs didn't blind me to what Sunset was going through.' She sighs, as she comforts her sister. Soon, both curl up under the blankets, as both rather not let go of the other. Luna falls deep asleep, as Celestia smiles and nods off, focusing on tomorrow, and what it will hopefully bring.

Celestia wakes up to her alarm, as she feels the bed move the her alarm is turned off. "Why did you set an alarm Tia?" Celestia sighs as she gets up, to her sisters annoyance, as the cold air hits Luna for a moment, making her shiver.

"I have to get Sunset from the Hospital, she had to stay the night like I told you on the phone." She shivers a bit, as she remembers to set the thermostat before she gets ready to take her shower. Luna yawns than speaks in a soft, almost hushed, voice, "So, could I stay here, and maybe make a large meal for us all?" Celestia nods, as she turns the water so it warms up.

"Yes, that is a good idea. However, I was hoping you could come with me to get her. Unless you're not up to face her yet." She wonders if Sunset would accept her sister's apology, or even look at her. She feels the guilt in her return, as she can tell Luna feels the same way. Luna calmly gets up, and makes the bed. "I honestly need some more time, and sister, Miss Shimmer is a vegetarian yes?" Celestia nods, as she gets in the shower. 'I hope Sunset had a decent sleep in the hospital, and I wonder if she knew Xavier was from her world. I should call the girls to make sure they know Sunset is safe, and we can plan out from there how to fix this mess.'

She walks out of her room, dressed in casual clothes, a simply thick sweater and pair of thick jeans. She walks the hall and down the stairs to the living area. She sees Luna in the large kitchen, as the two large windows let some light in. The day is cloudy, but no snow yet. The sun is low, barely above the treetops. She sees Luna looking up recipes and checking to make sure she can make them. "I am going now Lu. I should be back by 10 o'clock. Try not to go overboard."

Luna looks at her, as Celestia sees she is wearing the most ridiculous apron, which has the video game character, Master Chief, with a chef hat on and the words "The Chief is Here." over his body. "I won't, but isn't that a bit long? It is only 45 minutes from here to the Hospital?"

Celestia nods, and walks over to the kitchen, "Well, I have to make sure to take my time on the roads, pick up some files from the Social Security Office near the Hospital, and be verified by a social worker I can be Sunset's guardian. I also want to get there early to check on her, and to make sure Sunset has appointments set up with Dr. Wolf. Then, well, there is making sure I have those adoption forms ready. I just want them in case I need to change the information on them."

Luna nods, but stops. "Wait, you haven't filled them out for her have you?" Celestia sighs, and looks at Luna with a serious face. "We both know she falsified her residence and legal forms ever since she arrived here. I took what I know and what she had to tell us to get some aspects of it filled out. There is also the fact that she will be filing in some of the pages herself, just I won't have them turned into the Social Department till she is ready." 'And till I feel like I could be her mother for real.' Celestia sighs, looking at her sister.

Luna nods, "I understand Tia, after all she is not from here and we must make sure she is safe here." Luna looks at the clock and nods to it. "I think you should get going." Celestia looks at the clock, and sees it is 7:28. 'Yep, time to go.' She gathers all her stuff and puts on her winter attire. "Alright Luna, take your time and We'll be back soon." Luna nods, as Celestia goes out the garage door. She gets into her small hybrid car, as she opens the garage and gets on her way. She drives carefully, making her first stop with relative ease. The Secretary got her papers right away, as she told her that Mr. Xavier called to let them know she was coming. Celestia stopped, confused as to how he would've known, until she remembers she told him and Dr. Wolf about her intentions of adopting Sunset, if Sunset would let her be her mother. She thanks her as she gets back and drives the short distance to the hospital. She walks in, and sees to her surprise, Dr. Wolf walking up to her. He is smiling, as he carries some papers on a clipboard.

Dr. Wolf speaks to her, with his ever calm and compassionate voice. "Miss Celestia, welcome, we were told you would be arriving early. Now if you are alright, we can work on the paperwork and legal forms now. Sunset is still asleep, and had only a slight issue of having a small nightmare, however our staff helped her calm down and sleep again. It was just after your sister called us asking about her. So, shall we get to work, we wouldn’t want to keep Sunset waiting?" He smiles and looks up at her, as he was slightly shorter than her.

"Yes, lets us begin Dr. Wolf." Celestia speaks calmly, however her worry grows a bit. 'She had a nightmare, what was it about? How does Mr. Xavier know I would be here now? He said he had a flight to catch. Is he spying on her since he is worried? Is he spying on me?' She continues to think as they walk to his office. They sit down in Dr. Wolf’s cozy office and begin discussing everything and working on the legal documents. Celestia goes through the work with a fine toothed comb, making sure there are no issues of any kind, double checking names and dates, maintaining some truth to already false documents. They finish, having spent an hour doing the paperwork and having Celestia become Sunset's guardian. Celestia is shocked at how long it took, and is glad she got here earlier than she expected. Dr. Wolf then takes her to Sunset's room.

Celestia sees Sunset with a nurse, who finishes off her check up as Sunset sits in a wheelchair, her bags from Xavier's shopping spree for her in a cart. Sunset smiles at Celestia. "Hello Celestia, did you sleep well?" Celestia can see her scars, as her leather jacket is off. Those scars stop her in her tracks, reminders of how close she was last night. "I had an alright night sleep, but did you sleep well Sunset" Sunset sighs, and looks a bit concerned.

"I did... till I had a nightmare." Sunset is shaking as she holds herself. "I was... well... dead. I was a ghost I think, watching you say the body was me and have it be taken away. I then saw Luna... tell everyone about my funeral... two set up for me. I think I heard music... than... I saw … Death, just staring at me.... but then he shook me a bit… and I woke up.” Sunset is clearly shaken by her dream, as Celestia watches her wipe away a tear.

Celestia shakes a bit. 'She.. had a nightmare like mine and Lu's.... that is... freaky.' "Well Sunset, I also had a nightmare, about me failing you. I... am sorry for my inaction again and I ju-" Sunset stops her with a raised hand. "I already accepted your apology last night Celestia. If anything, I... feel like you are not to blame, after all, I was a bad student before."

"No, you were not a bad student Sunset. You just needed someone to help you see what you were doing was wrong. Now, enough about the past and bad dreams, let's get you home, Luna is cooking." Sunset nods, but looks ready to ask a question. "Yes, it is a vegetarian meal." Sunset is surprised, and smiles at them remembering that. They go and get Sunset signed out, her appointments made, and prescription made out. However, as Celestia goes to pay the bill, she is told it is already paid for. The Secretary smiles at her, "Mr. Xavier paid for it all, including medications needed. You can pick up her prescription today at four in the afternoon." Celestia nods, in utter disbelief. "A-alright, but are you sure he paid for it all?"

The Secretary nods, as she looks at her computer. "Yes, and I know it sounds weird, but Mr. Xavier usually pays what a patient can't pay, and he sent us a transfer fund to cover Sunset's cost. We know where he gets the money from, his stocks and personal interest, nothing illegal or unethical, so he has plenty to pay for it all." She looks back at them and smiles. "So have a great day, and we will see you tomorrow at three o'clock."

Sunset nods. "Yes, you will Miss Swift." Celestia nods, as she is wheels Sunset to her car, as a aid wheels the cart out. They get Sunset in the passenger seat, and her bags in the back. The aid takes the wheelchair and cart back, as Celestia starts the car but looks at Sunset. "I... am surprised he paid for it all. I heard Mr. Xavier was rich, but never so... kind with his wealth." She sits there, thinking about how she barely knows Xavier, only of him superficially.

"Well, a bought me 3,300 dollars worth of clothes, winter gear, and food. He is very nice, and I think he is just happy to help someone from Equestria." Celestia looks at Sunset, with a questioning look. "So, he is from your world." Sunset thinks for a moment. "Sort of, I think he may be something that walks between and in both our worlds. He told me stuff from my home, and he told me he was Death himself. " Celestia looks at her confused, 'Death.... saved her... from committing suicide?' "That...can’t be true... I mean, death isn't a real person and if he is, how can he be so full of life? Wouldn't he be a skeleton or ghost?"

Sunset speaks, wanting to clarify what she said. "In Equestria, Death is a real entity, as ancient legends described it as a pale pony, with a long dark cloak and fiery blue mane and tail. The descriptions often depict Death as a Unicorn with Skeletal or Bat-like wings, but none ever referred to Death as an Alicorn, or by anything other then Death, the Grimm Reaper, or it. I asked him last night, and he told me how and where AJ's parents died, that my mother miscarried once before me, and how many... times...... it tried.... something I have never told anyone. He also had very old eyes, and he just, gives off this cold feeling. He reminded me of Princess Celestia, except like a stronger and totally opposite kind of presence, which may be why I trusted him so easily after my initial fears were put to rest."

Celestia nods, vaguely understanding all of this. 'I'll... take her word for it. Sunset has no reason to lie about this, and... I have seen her, Twilight, and the others use magic... Is it too hard to believe in a god of Death?... But why would Death walk among us and help stop his own namesake from occurring?' She begins to drive, as Sunset and her talk a bit more about last night, and Sunset is informed of the legal papers she must fill in. They are nearly at Celestia's house, when Sunset asks a strange question. "So... you and Luna do have a mom and dad right?" Celestia nods. "Yes, but only our mother is alive anymore. She is living in a retirement home with our aunt. She is doing well for her age, and she may even ask about you if she visits us." Sunset nods, as she mutters something, but Celestia can't make out what she said.

They soon pull up to the house. Sunset gasps, as she sees the old home. It is two stories with a large front porch, wide three car garage and looks something for the rich elite. Sunset looks at her, eyes wide from shock. "You and Vice-Principal Luna live in a mansion?"

Celestia chuckles, "Actually, that is our family home. We lived in it for most of our lives, but it is too big for just me and Luna. It is entirely paid for thanks to our parents giving it to us. However, we do have some issues, such as the heating needs to be redone so it won't cost us a fortune. So, know that we keep it low, and have extra blankets and heaters to keep us warm." They enter the garage, which has Luna's own car, and plenty of room for more vehicles. They get out, as Celestia helps Sunset out of the car, before grabbing her bags. They enter the home, as Sunset takes in the old home's rustic yet homely feeling. Celestia sets the bags of clothes and other gifts by the Christmas tree, as Sunset sniffs the air. Celestia sniffs too, as she smells something rather delicious is cooking. They both look at the kitchen, and see Luna set aside a stack of waffles, as she goes to finish making a small fruit dish.

Luna turns around, and smiles at them both. "Welcome to your new home, Miss Shimmer." Sunset smiles. Luna then walks towards her, and gives Sunset a letter. Luna looks at her expectantly. She opens it... and reads it, over and over as she has tears forming in her eyes. Sunset looks at Luna with a smile. "T-thank you for this, Vice-Principal Luna, but an apology letter, specially made breakfast, and saying you got me presents. You don't have to get me anything, or do any of this."

Luna and Celestia both share a look. Luna places a hand on the shorter girl's shoulder, "Sunset, we both failed you as Principal and Vice-Principal of Canterlot High, and I hope you will allow us to help repair the damage we failed to mitigate or stop. I am also extremely sorry for ignoring your pleads against being Anon-A-Miss. I am a fool for even thinking you would go back to your old ways. If you can ever forgive me, know that I will never doubt you again." Sunset nods, thanking her for everything, and smiling at her Vice-Principle. Sunset and Celestia talk, as Celestia tells her about the forms she needs Sunset to look at and sign. Luna finishes cooking, and soon all three of them are sitting at the large dining table, at one end of it, talking and enjoying the brunch.

-Several Hours Later-

Celestia packs up the papers Sunset has filled out, as she smiles at the adoption form. Sunset never asked, as she got so focused into her part she never noticed the documents were for adoption. She sighs as she sits at her desk, with everything neatly organized. She goes to check on Luna and Sunset, who are talking about video games, something both love to play, when she notices a note on the back of the file she got from Dr. Wolf. 'How did I not see this earlier?' She picks the file up and reads it.

Dear Celestia,

This is Xavier, and yes I am Death, the Grimm Reaper, whatever your faith may call me. I write this to let you know I saved her because I hate my job, she is of Equestria, and she deserves a better future. Now, it shall not always be smooth sailing, and she may need some help, but both you and Luna are more than ready to help her. Especially since you both have seen the worst of it, and do know this, that bastard is in hell for his sins. Now, know that I will be watching but I may not intervene again. I know you two will be there for her. I shall be giving her some gifts for Christmas, and know she will love anything you give her. Though maybe a mother is what she really needs right now. Just suggesting is all, that decision is for you and her to make. Have a happy holiday and know that, in time, you will know she has fully forgiven you. She is a musician, so her songs reflect her emotions.

-Sincerely, Xavier W.

Celestia re-reads the note, as she takes it all in. She then organizes the adoption papers and places her set in the safe, and places the set for the Secretary's Office in her desk drawer. She has a plan tomorrow, but for now, she will go spend time with her, hopefully, soon to be adopted daughter. She smiles to herself, unaware of the jet black crow watching her leave her room.

Xavier sees her shut the door, as the cold night air blows against his dark avian form. 'I must remember to thank Madison for helping me with the paperwork. I should repay her in some way, maybe get her something nice for the holiday. Or I can help her find out who her gamer crush is.' He chuckles to himself, as he flies off, going to his new routine, of finding souls in need. 'A large task for a single crow, but maybe my Reapers shall join me in time. I know most rather not see such sparks of potential be put out so soon.' He soars past the house and into the cold, silent night. This is his time to walk the land, and maybe too once again feel warmth in his cold, icy soul.

So our grim friend has been more involved than we thought. But what of this past incident we have yet seen? What of the girl's and their reaction to Sunset's near joining of the dead? Time shall soon show us. So sit back and rest, for the next time we meet, my friend, shall be a night you won't regret. And always know, you can light the fires of hope inside anyone you meet, so never let a flame dim and be extinguished, bring hope to those in the dark. After all, a single flame can be all you need to guide yourself through the darkest of nights. Good night and fair days to you all.

A Night of Regrets

Author's Note

GUESS WHO'S BACK! Yep, this has been rewritten, as has much of the story. The original idea concept is all thanks to diablo4000, who gave me the idea for angry Shy and Bloom seeing Sunset leave. I will say that, the original chapter was much more strange, from Shy's PoV sort of and felt off. It was messy and erratic, since it was her PoV and thus her emotions, but it also revealed to much I felt. This, feel much better, though I can't right AJ's Dialogue properly for the life of me. I hope you enjoy this chapter, and the next one is in the works, but may take some time, since college life is sucking with half online classes, no instructions, and me being a very "In class" learner doesn't help. I accept constructive criticism, and I will thank my friend Red for pre-reading this story and making sure it's not too bad. See you in the next one.

TBR

A Night of Regrets

-------The Evening of Sunset's Attempt-------

AJ was gathering up the snacks from the kitchen, as she was making sure to get all the things Sunset and the others like, especially her family's signature red delicious apples. She smiles as she shines one and bites into it, all nice and warm in her home, slippers on and ready to have the girls over for one amazing, and hopefully productive slumber party. AJ walks into the living room, with the fireplace lit and the others all chatting about the past few days, how they couldn't believe the CMC would do such awful things to Sunset, but Shy and Pinkie voice that they hope to fix what has happened.

Dash: "I don't know, maybe we should just act like nothing happened, I mean, it's not like she didn't deserve it. Sunset was a bitch to us all before Princess Sparky came to set her straight." AJ stops going to set the apples down near RD, as she glares at her. Shy then speaks, "I don't know Dashie, we didn't act like friends to Sunset." Dash sighs, and rolls her eyes, "Yeah, well she never did either, like, where should I start, the time in sixth grade she stuck a wad of gum in Rarity's hair, or in seventh when she shoved you into a locker? It seems like she still deserves to get some of her own medicine."

Pinkie then speaks, "Well, I...won't disagree with you Rainbow, but she seemed really upset that we didn't even try to listen to her." AJ sits back, handing the apples to Rarity, who thanks her and takes on to eat, as both think about what they feel on this topic. AJ thinks back to the day she met Sunset, 'It was six grade, just before actually. I reckon I've actually known her the longest, but..why can't I recall how she was before she got into our school?' AJ ponders this, as the trio get into a very vocal debate. Dash just keeps hammering home Sunset's evil deeds, while Shy and Pinkie accept that they happened, but try to counter them with how she was scared or possible just not in the right state of mind.

Rarity then speaks up, "I will say Sunset has done a lot of bad things, and she really hasn't been punished for them-" Dash then shouts, "Finally, so you agree she deserved the blog happening to her?" Rarity is caught off guard, as AJ swears she hears footsteps, but just assumes it's Bloom pacing as she has to type out a report on "Why I ain't gonna be a bully." for her punishment. Shy then speaks in a whisper, "Maybe you should be nicer, after all she is sweet and caring now."

Dash then sighs, "Shy, look, we all know that Sunset needs to pay for her bad decisions. She bullied you, me, Rarity, Derpy, Trixie, Lyra, Bon-Bon, the CMC, half the younger students, and even threatened to turn us into slaves and she became a Demon!" Pinkie then looks grumpy and shouts, "Okay, we know sunset did some horrible, awful, and rather rude things-" AJ's then swears she heard crying, and the front door shut, but checks the time and sees it's too early for Sunset to get back, she was doing research in the library and wouldn't be by till later.

Just a few hours go by, and AJ then hears Bloom walks down the stairs. Bloom, in her robe and bunny slippers, looks into the living room, worried but appears to be taking on her "big girl" face, to talk to them. However as the girls are arguing still, Bloom can't be heard, though by the tone and look of her, AJ realizes something is wrong, and her brain begins to put the pieces together, the lack of Sunset, the argument, and the crying. However, she tries to rationalize it, as she tries to quiet the girls down to let Bloom speak.

This fails, so Bloom then makes a high pitched whistle, getting everyone's attention, and causing AJ to recoils. Aj rubbed her hears, partially covering them, as Bloom also looks to be bothered by her own whistle. 'Damn it Bloom, Granny told you notta do it that so loud.' Dash and the others all get quiet, and look at Bloom, who begins to speak softly. "I um, you all know that, um...Sunset just left." AJ pales a bit, as Fluttershy and the others look shocked. Dash then chuckles, "Heh heh, your joking right?" Bloom then looks angry, "Do I look like I'm making a joke? No! She was walking down the path inta town." AJ then gets up, "Alrighty then, I'mma get Mac's truck out-" AJ then recalls Mac is out in his truck, and they have no way to safely find Sunset, legally at least, since it is too late for Shy and Pinkie to go out driving.

Aj then sighs, "Or, not since Mac is out and it's very late now, too dangerous to go out now." Shy then begins to have a panic attack, as Rarity sighs, "Now now Darlings, I am sure she will be fine. Sunset is strong and probably just needs some time to recompose herself." Shy then looks at Rarity, harshly, "Oh..really? W-well why s-should she?" Shy begins to cry, as AJ feels her heart get cold, and she looks out the window, to see the moon is out. "W-we are the worst friends...S-sunset can have right now-"

Rarity moves, standing up and going over to Shy, to comfort her. "There There Flutters, I know we all got a bit, carried away and-" Shy then snaps at her, "NO, DASH DID, AND YOU MADE IT WORSE! YOU DIDN'T EVEN TRY TO DEFEND SUNSET, YOU JUST AGREED WITH DASH!" RD looks shocked, and nervous at the angry Fluttershy. Pinkie then helps Shy up, as both look a bit too shaken up, and they go to the bathroom to calm down. Dash looks unsure of herself, as her confidence and cocky demeanor is gone. Rarity looks at AJ, with a look of 'Oh dear, what do we do?' Aj then sighs, as she sits down and runs her hands through her blond hair, as she stares at the floor.

"I don't know what to do. I ain't good with, I mean-" AJ then sighs, as she thinks to herself, 'I should be worried about Sunset, and not myself right now. But going out on a drive at night, ON a full moon, ugh..screw it, we got to find her. The least I can do as her first friend.' AJ then gets up, as she speaks loudly, "Bloom, you and me are gonna talk later, to make something for Sunset WHEN we bring her back here. Rarity, I know things are not good out there...and you-" AJ realizes, Rarity is crying, and her heart snags a bit, seeing her so disheveled, makes her more determined to get this sorted out. Rarity then sighs, and wipes off her tears, and the small bit of makeup she has one smears, "No no, we have to find her."

Dash then speaks softly, "You all go, do that...if she sees me, she may just...well...maybe I deserve a punch to the gut." AJ sighs, "She won't punch you, she's not like the Bully you all knew." Dash looks at her suspiciously, "What do you mean, she bullied you too." AJ sighs, "Yeah, maybe, but to me, she helped me get stronger, and I respected her, as she respected me. Now, once Shy and Pinkie are calmed down, we can take Shy's van and go out to look for Sunset." Bloom then speaks up, "But...AJ Granny will be Seriously pissed if your out this late." AJ looks at Bloom, as she speaks, "I'm sure Granny will understand why I'mma out so late. Now, go get Winona and stay inside, and if Granny wakes up, tell her I'm with friends looking for Sunset." Bloom nods, as she runs down to their finished basement/cellar to get Winona out of her nice little area she sleeps in.

Suddenly, Shy storms into the Room, and grabs Dash violently, as Pinkie rushes after her, and tries to stop Shy from hurting her oldest friend. Shy then shouts out loud, "YOU'RE THE WORST FRIEND EVER! IF YOU KEPT YOUR MOUTH SHUT SHE WOULDN'T BE LIKE THIS!" Dash grabs Shy's arms, and helps keep Shy from choking her out, "WOAH WOAH! SHY! CALM DOWN AGH..Shy!" Pinkie then breaks Shy off Dash, as Shy just breaks down crying. AJ is confused, and looks at her sort of cousin, who gives her a look of "We got to go..NOW!" "What happened?" Rarity asks, as she looks at Shy, and then at Dash.

"Well....So apparently Death has picked up Sunset after he stopped her from trying to kill herself, and he is now trying to help her and has called Shy asking to get us together and to meet him at the big hospital, the one where that famous Psychologist...um...Wolf yeah Dr. Wolf works. Oh and...he asked us to call Celestia." AJ blinks, as she processes this slowly, and Rarity is confused. Shy then grabs her phone, and in her unstable emotional State, calls Principal Celestia. AJ hears her begging for her to pick up, and once she does, Shy lets her emotions out, shouting at the top of her lungs, as she cries out "PRINCIPAL CELESTIA! SUNSET ISN'T HERE, SHE LEFT... AND SHE JUST TRIED TO KILL HERSELF!" before going on about how they all might of been the cause of Sunset's decision, and then just breaks down again. Rarity is crying and takes a moment to sit and just let it out. AJ feels herself tear up, but she feels more worried than ever for Sunset.

"RIGHT! Everyone get yer coats on and come on, we got to meet Sunset there right now!" The others all nod, and slowly, they all get dressed and huddle into Shy's old van. AJ is getting in the driver's seat when she sees it's not a stick, and she has to deal with the discomfort of trying not to grab at a stick to change gears. She takes a few to get the van moving, but AJ knows how to drive an automatic, but eventually, she gets them on the move. The next couple of hours, which felt like days to AJ, were a blur. They arrived there, then met Celestia, and then talked with Sunset. AJ saw this...Death guy, and felt her entire body go on alert. She doesn't even recall them leaving, and them entering her home to Bloom and Winona asleep on the sofa, with Granny motioning for her to come to the office to talk. The girls, all shaken and tired, huddle together and sit close, as they all silently pray for Sunset to get better.

AJ sits down in the old leather chair of her grandpa's office, as Granny sits in her chair, behind the desk. She has a glass of cider in one hand, and AJ's phone in the other. Granny then speaks, unaffected by the alcohol or her lack of sleep, "Now look here youngin, you can go out and do all sorts of things... But not without tellin' me first. Mac ain't here to help keep us safe, and it's only you and me to keep Bloom and our farm secure. Now I know, your friend was in a hard spot, and I know you'll tell me about it in da morning, but for now, you have but one thing to do."

AJ waits for Granny to punish her until she is handed her phone, and Granny speaks softly, "Get some rest, and wait for her to call you. She needs time I reckon, and you need sleep. You're not a young pup anymore AJ, you're nearly a wolf, now, you all give her time, and I say...in a day or two, if she doesn't contact you, call her. She is always gonna be welcomed here, she's a part of our family whether she knows it or not." AJ sighs, smiles and nods. "I know Granny, I just have to hope she wants to be an honorary apple still, like how Ma was...but...She tried to end it...I..don't know...I could of..could have done-"

Granny Smith then scoffs, "You could say "Stop her" or all the things in the world, but you can't change the past. Believe me, saying that won't help you. You got to suck it up, and push on, like before." AJ nods, as she sighs, remembering the first time she heard those words when she was just starting Sixth grade and she couldn't go to "Donuts with Dad." on the first day. She then recalls that was when she and Sunset spoke about their parents, and how AJ learned Sunset didn't really have parents, only a mentor she viewed as a mother. Granny then snaps her fingers, breaking AJ out of her trance.

"Hey, your so tired you staring at a hole in the floor. Go get some sleep. Tomorrow will be a good day." She smiles, as AJ notices the time is two in the morning. "I will Granny, sleep well, and..um...do you think we should punish Bloom?" Granny nods, "I already gave her a punishment, which is to shovel the entire path from here to the main road, and she has to help bake Sunset a meal, get her a gift, and lastly, give her a big hug in apology. Oh..and she can't have those fancy smancy games or her phone till I say so."

AJ nods, "Well, that seems, like something more than that paper." Granny nods, as she finishes off her glass of cider. "I know, and I'm gonna make sure no one at the school gets any apple fritters next year until I have Sunset's confirmation they apologized to her. I am also gonna make her a sweater, or...give her something I think she should have. You're also gonna help clean up the basement, get apology gifts for Sunset and scrub the bathrooms, cause you caused this too. " Granny says sternly, but smiles, as AJ stands up, nodding and accepting that.

"Right, though gonna have to wait a bit on my punishment, I'm gonna plan out tomorrow, to make sure we all make sure to apologize and help Sunset know...well...we wish to be her friends again. Though...I...." AJ feels her nerves kick in, as Granny stands up, and gives her a calming hug. AJ soon is calm again, as she relaxes. "Thanks, Granny, I needed that." Granny lets go and pat AJ's shoulders. "It's fine, your just like your father, just with your mother's gift is all." AJ nods, as they chuckle, and then both go to planning, and eventually fall asleep.

------The Next Morning------

AJ wakes up early, as she opens her eyes, and shakes herself off. She finds herself, oddly next to Rarity, even though Pinkie was between them. Said Pink-haired hyper cousin was in the kitchen, making mochas and breakfast with Bloom. AJ gets up, and sees, it has happened yet again, Damn it, another blanket gone.' She sighs, as she takes the ripped-up mess and tosses it into the bin for laundry, deciding to try and use it for rags. Pinkie and Bloom look over, as Pinkie giggles, "Heya Cousin, you got a little something-" She points to AJ's nose, as AJ sighs, and goes about her morning routine. She soon feels like herself again, as she sighs.

"So, I'mma gonna do that when I hit puberty too?" AJ nods, as Pinkie does her usual weirdness as she does five things at once, wearing her gloves to use the cast iron pans and metal utensils. "Yessum, and like me and Mac, you will have to control it. Got it?" Bloom nods, as Pinkie passes over two mochas as she keeps making the food. Bloom goes back to work, as AJ hears Rarity wake up. 'Now, a new day, let's make sure it is a good one.' AJ turns, with a smile, as she greets the others, all of whom are slow and groggy, but eventually, they are all at the table and eating.

AJ then tells them her plan, for having an Apology Party for Sunset, and for them to let her have this day to recover, and tomorrow they talk to her. Everyone agrees, and thus they all begin to plan this out, as Dash and Shy want this to be the best party, as both feel guilty for last night. AJ tries to help them all see the bright side of things, as a crow watches them on this morning, but flies away, as he knows they mean well now, and he has confirmed his suspicions and now goes to set his own plans into motion.

Well now, that was interesting, no? It seems there is more at hand here in this world then we thought. What could be Death's plan, why are the Apples so kind to Sunset, and how will they earn Sunset's friendship back? Also, how will they react to Death, if they meet him properly? Who knows, but I. I hope you all enjoyed another one of my stories, do come back for more. I am sure things are getting more interesting, as the days grow closer to the New Year. And know that one's instincts must be controlled, but followed in times of misery and danger. Good Nights and fair days to you all, my wonderful audience.

Session One - In a Magical Land

It is a cold yet peaceful morning, the first proper morning of her new life, as Sunset stirs to a very loud alarm clock from down the hall and echoing through the vents. She sits up, confused as to where she was, before recalling the previous days, her encounter with Xavier, her albeit confusion about him, her being treated, her friends and Celestia apologizing, and that she is living with Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna now it seems. 'Woah, okay so it wasn't an odd dream. Okay, let's get out of bed, and see what is going on.' She tells herself, before slowly sliding out from her warm blankets and comforter, as colder than expected air blows against her exposed feet. 'SWEET CELESTIA!' She thinks, quickly curling back into her blankets, as she sighs.

She then recalls, the heating issues this old home has. "Alright, slippers than washing up with a nice hot washcloth." She says, slowly reaching over to her slippers, and pulling them over, soon getting them on, and shuffling to get herself warm, before deciding to take a hot shower, and hope it warms up her room too. Luckily for her, it does, and she can get dry and into a warm yellow sweater, long sleeves, with thick sweatpants on, and winter socks on plus her slippers. She smells fresh coffee being brewed below, and the noises of voices speaking. She soon heads out, noting the time is seven-thirty in the morning, as she sees Celestia, all warmly dressed, making coffee, pancakes, but also tea, some eggs, and sausage. However, she is reading a box labeled "Vegan Sausage" as she is cooking those in a separate pan.

"Morning Miss Celestia," Sunset says, not jovially, but with a soft smile, as Celestia smiles. "Good morning Sunset, did you, sleep well last night?" She asks, sounding worried. "Also do help yourself to coffee, I made enough for three." Sunset nods, soon looking for mugs, Celestia guiding her to some spares, as she grabs one that reads "Best Writer" on it, which is odd, before she pours herself a cup, and adds in some sugar, and goes heavy on her cream. "I slept amazing," Sunset begins, "no nightmares. And if I had a nice dream, I don't recall it." She sighs, sipping more of the glorious substance she has grown fond of.

Celestia nods, as she cooks and begins to prepare the food. "That is great, so, what are your plans today? You have an appointment at Canterlot Hospital right?" Sunset nods, as she sits down, sighing. "Yes, my first real psych visit with Dr. Wolf, though isn't it, way too soon?" She wonders as Celestia turns around, and speaks calmly, "No it is not Sunset, because right now you are vulnerable, and it is best to get help as soon as possible, or that is what I think. Plus you did have yesterday to relax and settle in. And Xavier did pay for these sessions." Sunset nods and sips more, 'Ah yes, he is paying for them. I shouldn't let his money be wasted.'

She soon is disturbed from her thoughts by Luna's arrival, as she slumps down next to her, and looks to have showered, but still is groggy from sleep. Celestia passes her a cup, as she adds in a bit of sugar, and a tiny bit of cream, drinking it dark, and she sighs. "Good Morning Sunset, Sister." She says, drinking more as Celestia greets her, and soon passes them pancakes, as she turns up the TV in the living room for the weather report. Sunset smirks at the food before her, though cautiously try a vegan sausage, finding it, while looking like the meat ones, doesn't initially set off her gage reflex like the time she ate a hot dog at a food drive.

They all eat, chat and discuss what they shall do, while it is still break, Celestia has the papers to drop off, and Luna has some emails to send, plus contacting the staff on the matter, as they want to prevent anyone from treating Sunset poorly. Thus, Sunset soon finds herself with free time on her hands, as she thanks them for the food, and decides to sit down and write to Twilight, or try to, as she grabs her book, puts on music in her room, but soon runs into a mental roadblock, writing than erasing "Dear Princess Twilight" and "Hello Twilight" as she thinks on what to say. She then sighs and decides to be blunt.

"Dear Princess Twilight, December 22nd."

"I might assume you haven't read my other messages from the previous days since you haven't responded. But I am alive still, and I got help. Things are looking better, but I have a great deal to ask of you. I met death, as I wrote last night, and I wondered if you can look into any legends or myths on death. And on who made the mirrors, because if my theory is true, the human world may just yet have secrets to tell us on how magic works in different worlds. And I know you will probably rush through the portal once it reopens, and I'll be waiting for you till that time. I hope things are going well on your end, though you are busy I bet. But it would be nice to talk to you, some help on how to forgive your friends, and just advice on having friends would be nice. I hope to see your reply soon.

Sincerely, Sunset Shimmer."

She sighs after reading it over and closes her book. She then walks about her room, cleaning it up and moving things to sit perfectly, noting her desk is bare, as she puts some spare paper, pencils, and other items in the draws. She also begins to write a list of what she can get, new jobs to find after she got fired from her old one as she thought her plan to take over would mean she wouldn't need any income. Luckily she got her phone from the Sentry family, and they let her keep it, though she needs to pay for the plan still. But for now, she has it paid off in advance, so she searches for jobs, and also just things to do, but she feels, less and less eager to do things, as she sits alone.

'Maybe I should call AJ-' She begins to think, but shakes the thought from her head, 'No no, AJ and the girls may need some time to process all this too. Plus, they may want to hang out, and I got my appointment at 3.' She looks at the clock, as it only reads ten-thirty-six on it, as she sighs. Then, she recalls she has access to the game consoles in the living room, as Luna is a gamer, and soon goes down to try her hand at what her Vice Principle plays. 'I'll call them after, maybe then we can all hang out.'

--Several Hours later--

Sunset has been playing a game called "Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD" as Luna recommended it to her, as she and Luna are now the only ones home as Tia is still out working on paperwork and other legal matters. Right now she is enjoying it, finding Midna's character entertaining, and also getting used to the game, having died a lot since she never played a game like this. However, due to her focus, she hasn't kept track of time, as soon Luna speaks, "Sunset, you do know what time it is?"

Sunset blinks, and looks at the time, shocked that it is twenty to three. "Oh crap. I am going to be late." Luna: "Do not worry, I can get you there on time, so pause and save. Plus our clocks are a bit fast." Luna states, before swiftly getting up and getting ready to leave. Sunset does so too, as both soon are in Luna's car, a smaller vehicle, some kind of compact one, though Sunset can't exactly tell, as they soon get underway. Luna's driving is not like Celestia, who is calm and focused. Luna is focused, but not calm, quickly calling out those who overtake her, slow down for no reason, or are idiot drivers. She does avoid using curse words but does use colorful non-cursing words in their place. Sunset finds it all hilarious, as Luna calls one man "A son of a pig-nosed pirate dog" and another "A scruffy-looking nerf herder"

They soon arrive, on time as they head inside after parking, and soon see Miss Swift smiling at them. "Ah you made it, Dr. Wolf is expecting you in his office." She smiles, as Luna and Sunset nod, and Luna turns to Sunset. "I will be waiting here, or do you want me to come with you?" She asks, a bit, unsure what to do, as Sunset thinks, before sighing. "I'll go in on my own Miss Luna. Thank you for the offer." She smiles, as Luna nods, and goes to sit. Miss Swift points Sunset to his office, as he sees it is cozy, a bit small, and yet perfect for the short doctor. He sits in his chair, reading over some papers, as he looks up and smiles.

"Greetings Miss Shimmer, please take a seat." He says, gesturing to the two empty chairs before his desk, as Sunset shuts the door, and does so. She is unsure of how this will go, as soon as Dr. Wolf takes off his reading glasses, and looks at her, she sighs and speaks. "So, how does this exactly work?" Dr. Wolf smiles, and speaks calmly, "Well we can begin in two ways, I start by asking you about your current mental state, and how you became suicidal and try to work through problems. The second way is to have you begin on whatever you feel like you have to talk about, for me to understand you and better help you. Know I will not say a word about what we discuss, unless it is medically or legally required, to anyone. But that doesn't mean your guardians can't request the papers or information."

Sunset nods, as she thinks these two options over, before deciding. "Well, I guess I should explain a lot because, without some context, I will sound crazy." Dr. Wolf nods, as he lets her continue. "So, well, to start, well do you believe in magic? And other realms?" He blinks but nods slowly. "I have become, used to the stranger things in life." He says calmly, as Sunset is surprised by this. "Well, what if I told you I am a talking pony with a magical horn who came here via a magical portal, got turned into a young teen again, and have been plotting world domination since the end of my sixth-grade year?"

Dr. Wolf, surprisingly nods, before speaking "I would be able to believe that, considering I have seen the videos and, to be honest, I have seen or heard more ridiculous histories that turned out to be true. But, I must ask, if you do come from another world, I assume, your problems began there. It is unlikely you came through willingly." Sunset flinches, and sighs, as he looks concerned. "Actually, I did come through willingly, to seek out more power. Because, I felt like my uh, Mentor, was holding me back, and when your a child from military parents, who you can't let down, and you feel so undermined with stupid lessons, and pressure from your family, things tend to get, uh-" She stops, and sighs. "You don't think clearly."

Dr. Wolf nods, as he soon speaks, "Your parents were military?" "Yes, they were, well my dad was a Captain of the Solar Guard, basically like an Honor Guard for, our leader, Princess Celestia, who was my mentor." Dr. Wolf nods, holding back his questions to let her talk. "And my mom was a Pyromancer, a flame specialist, from a very wealthy family. They got together, and well, tried for a son, but things didn't work out, and then they had me." She sighs, "I was, born talented, but also raised in an empty home. I barely knew my folks, I focused on my schooling, and I socialized somewhat. Then I got older, and I didn't even try to have friends. My dad would praise me for my work, my mom would reward me for good behavior and listening to orders, but also they both wanted "The Very Best" for me. Being spoiled didn't help me, and once you get selected to be the Princess's private student, your ego gets a whole lot bigger."

Dr. Wolf nods, "How old were you when you were accepted?" Sunset thinks but has to think hard, mentally cursing about how the portal and de-aging affected her memories. "I think, I was around 12 or so and was her pupil till I was 24 or so, a grown adult in pony years. Then, she began to push lessons on friendship and making friends. At the time, I thought they were stupid and a waste of time. I was better than everyone, why should I waste time on them when I can become more skilled? I.." She leans forward, holding her head. "I should have just listened to her. She was smarter and older than me. But I kept looking for power, to get stronger. Then, Celestia showed me the mirror, and I...saw myself as an Alicorn." Dr. Wolf raises an eyebrow, as Sunset explains what alicorns are, and he nods but motions for her to continue. "So, I thought that was my destiny, and I saw a glimpse of this place. Celestia said I would learn of the mirror and more "When I was ready", but I thought I was. So...it consumed my thought, and, I betrayed her trust and looked into dark magics about the mirror. She caught me, obviously, and I berated her for hiding such powers and abilities. I demanded to be made an alicorn, but she refused, and banished me from the Castle, and disowned me as her pupil. I...than overpowered the guards, and jumped through the portal." She looks up and relaxes back in the chair.

Dr. Wolf takes a few moments to think over what she said, writing notes down, and having a slightly shocked, understanding, and contemplative look on his face. Sunset sits back, and wonders if she opened up a bit too much for her first session, or if he is gonna drag her away in a jacket or being insane. He however looks at her, before declaring, "I do think your issues are quite more complicated than I first thought. What you told me, sounds like you were not only raised to strive for success but also to have such overconfidence in yourself and to look down on others. In truth, I think now, that lack of confidence, of control, is what is making you unsure and lost now, am I correct in believing that to be the case?" He asks, as Sunset thinks about it, and, shakes her head.

"No, I, began to, harm myself way before I lost control, or maybe not. I started around the time I was in seventh grade. I just, started to do it, to feel, I guess pain but, relief?" Dr. Wolf nods, and inquires, "What was going on in your seventh-grade year?" Sunset thinks back to seventh grade, her and AJ's incident at her farm, Sunset getting bullied, and Sunset losing a place to live since she didn't want to be around AJ. "A lot, honestly." She groans, "and I..don't feel like, talking about some of it." Dr. Wolf nods and calmly gets up. "That is alright Sunset, we have talked a lot already, if you need more time, we can discuss how your medication affects you. Have you taken it today?" He asks, as Sunset nods. "Yes, I have taken my anti-depressant and my cream for my wrist wounds." She says, looking down.

"There is no need to feel ashamed of your scars Sunset. If necessary, we can look into, other ways to help you. I know many, unusual but very effective methods. Such as tattoos over your scars, to make them into beautiful images. Pet therapy also helps, as does exercise. It is impressive what one can overcome with a goal in mind." He smiles softly, as Sunset thinks about this, and is intrigued by tattoos. "I'll have to think on, doing any of those, and for how my medicine affects me, I feel alright, but it is my first day." Dr. Wolf nods, as he walks over. "I know, but do keep that in mind, most lose sleep or gain some side effects, and think the medicine is hurting more than it is helping, and they spiral down. The medicine isn't a cure, it is a treatment, and knowing that is one part of helping yourself handle your depression."

Sunset frowns at this. "So, there is no cure, well I can understand why.' Dr. Wolf nods but smiles. "While there is no true cure, you can help yourself regain a normal, where harming yourself or thinking of ending your life doesn't come to mind." He says, as she nods, though looks at the clock, as they talked from three o'clock in the afternoon to ten past four. "I hope I can get a new normal, though, it is getting late, was..this session for an hour?" Dr. Wolf waves a hand. "You're fine, I do not have tight scheduling, I often leave extra time for patients to get the most out of these visits. Now, we should discuss when you can come back in. I sadly have no opening before Christmas, but I do have one before New Year's Eve if that is alright with you and your guardians."

Sunset nods, "I think that can work. I'll text Luna the date so she can check." He nods, as they soon work out a date for the 28th of December, as it is arranged. "So, you sure you believe me? Don't think I am crazy?" She asks, as Dr. Wolf nods, and smiles again. "Sunset, as I keep saying, I do believe you, but I can explain more in another session, I must go now. Do have a safe and lovely evening." He bows a bit, as Sunset nods, bowing a bit, as they both part ways, as more snowfalls. 'Ah yes, the afternoon snowfall, oh boy driving will be hard for Luna.' She thinks, as soon Luna and her bundle up, and head back to their home, Sunset and her discussing what had happened. They soon get home and find Celestia has brought home pizza, since they all were out late, and they all snuggle up by the fireplace to stay warm, as they save the heat for tonight, as Sunset relaxes, and wonders more about how her life and events effected her, and how come Dr. Wolf seems so unphased by her history. However, as she enjoys the movie Big Hero Six, one they all haven't seen, they relax on a snowy winter's evening.

Well, as I have been told my commentation is distracting my listeners, I shall keep things short. This tale might have been a while in telling, as I had to grab more ale and get comfy in my old spot here, but I do believe it was a good part of this story we are hearing unfold. Now, good night or day to you all. Do come back when you feel, the weather is nice and the fire is lit. And I remain here, to always tell you a tale, from my book of stories.

Author's Note

Hello, I am back. I however am older, having issues with life, my future and just so much. I do hope my stories give you some joy in your day, and do know I am not gonna make you wait so long for another chapter. At least I hope not. I also wrote this after a amazing session of DnD, and I was running on half full when I made this, so if it seems odd that may be why.

Do enjoy this chapter, and how the characters were portrayed.

A Day of Forgiveness - Part I

It is a cold and snowy morning for AJ, as she sits with Granny and Big Mac, finishing up the preparation on her end of the plan. "So I gotta make sure I pick up Sunset, hopefully, she'll listen and accept our apologies, then we can do the party. A lot is riding on me getting to her.' She thinks, as they hang up some lights for Christmas, and also prepare some stuff for later, mainly gifts to hand out, as this was their celebration together before they all go celebrate Christmas with their own families. AJ looks at Granny, "So, you sure Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna are okay with this? I mean, isn't it a bit too soon?"

Granny smiles, and speaks with confidence, "Sunset will need time yes, that is true, but right now, you all owe her a try at making amends, and if she doesn't accept, you know she'll need more time. I know for a fact she shouldn't be alone AJ, and I ain't havin' her not get the gifts we got her yesterday." Granny smiles, as Bloom walks over, with a sad look, "I also gotta make my attempt to apologize, but after I shovel the path." She sighs and is already bundled up. "I'll be out watching you kiddo," Granny says, as she drinks her coffee. AJ nods and thinks about how determined Granny is to make amends, and wonder if that is either from experience or simply her kind nature.

AJ then looks at Mac, as he finished hanging up the lights around the old family photos, as she sees the one of herself as a baby, with her Ma, Pear Butter, and her da, Bright Mac, in the hospital, holding her. She recalls the words her ma told her, and feels ready now, "No matter what, I still gotta try to make things up to Sunset." She thinks, as she gets herself ready, and checks her phone, as the girls are all getting ready on their parts, and will be at the house by three, so she has hopefully from eleven to three to try and get Sunset at least comfortable with coming to a proper apology party. Not only that, but she has to remember her shopping list, as they are running out of things. So she goes over the list as she gets changed, and dressed up for the winter.

"Got my medicine still for the month last I check, so no need to pick it up till after Christmas, will save time on me getting my gift for Sunset and the girls. Now, where am I gonna get Sunset, maybe something nice, like a new phone? No, don't have the money. Maybe I can just have her grab something and I'll pay for it." She thinks, as she feels inclined to check her draw, but stops as knocking occurs. "Jackie, I'll be in the truck." Big Mac says as he walks off, and AJ shouts back, "Alright, be right down." She then grabs her wallet, hat, and old scarf, as she heads out, and soon gets out into Big Mac's old but reliable truck.

"You got your list of things?" He asks, as he is going to drop her off instead of her having to walk there, since it is lightly snowing, and AJ is yet to get her license. "Yes, I did Mac, so her place is on Chester Drive, in the more respectable area of the city, since she moved in with our Principle." Mac nods, as he gets into gear and drivers down the path as they see Bloom working on clearing the porch with Granny watching, as they drive off. AJ checks the time, which is half-past ten, as she looks at him. "So, reckon next year I can take driver's ed?" Her brother responds with his signature "Yup." as he is focused on driving, and she sits back, and checks her phone, seeing the other's plans and also seeing Rarity's message of "Making something special for everyone, and extra special for Sunset." as she sighs. The drive is long and quiet, with some Christmas music playing, country kind, as they arrive at the large, almost small mansion-like home of the Principals, as AJ blinks.

"Some old home must suck to heat." AJ's mind doesn't think of that, but the age of the place, and how well kept it is, but also how, big it is for two, now three, people living inside. She wonders why and how her principles can live in such a large home. AJ then hears Mac's voice as she stops zoning out, "You got everything?" AJ nods, "Yes Mac, I got my wallet, keys, all warm and cozy, plus the winter hat is on." She says, lifting her cowboy hat, to show the knitted hat her Aunt gave her last year. He nods, and she nods back, as she soon exits the car, and heads to the front door as the path to the front door and driveway, are already cleared, but the newly fallen snow is building up, making that satisfying crunch as she walks to the double set doors. Mac remains in the driveway, as she goes to the doors, and rings the doorbell, as she waits, cold air nipping her cheeks and nose, as soon Vice Principle Luna opens the doors, wearing a robe and casual clothing, as she has her hair down.

"Ah, Miss Applejack, you're a bit earlier than Celestia expected, she is just talking to Sunset, but do come in." She says, welcoming her in, as she nods, "Thank ya kindly Vice Prin-" Luna stops her with a hand, "Please, outside of school Miss Eclipse of Miss Luna will be fine." She informs her, as AJ nods, as she heads inside, and Mac heads out to get his shopping done. "Right, sorry, thank you Miss Eclipse. So uh, how she, Sunset, how is she doin'?" AJ asks, feeling a bit awkward as she takes her boots off, as Luna shuts the door and locks it.

"Sunset is having a rough morning, to say the least. Seems a nightmare or wondering thought got her when she woke up. So do be warned, she might not be in the best mood, nor am I when Tia told me the idea." AJ stops, and looks at her, as she has her boots on a mat, and looks worried. "Why is our plan bad or, is something wrong with it?" AJ is worried and wonders if she and the girls were trying too hard too soon. 'Please don't say it.' Aj fears, as Luna looks at her. "I fear this is coming on too soon for her. She is just getting help and taking some anti-depressants, plus these events, are too fresh, I worry it is far too soon to try and put her back, in the place she had her breaking point reached. No offense Miss Applejack, but I am worried you all will only get Sunset back in a dark place."

AJ sighs, as she looks down, and thinks about what Luna said, though she sighs, and looks at her Vice-Principal. "I get that, your worried we'll not help her out, or she'll feel alone or hurt again. But I promise ya Miss Ecplise, I ain't letting Sunset be alone now. I know she has you and Principle Celestia, but I know, the girls and I want to make it up to her, and so do Granny and Bloom. I, known Sunset for a while, she's been over our home a lot, and the truth is told, Granny wants Sunset to feel at home there, no matter what. So making amends is what our goal is, and help her know she's not alone and has friends to lean on in those dark times. Plus, we all angered Fluttershy, so this is also to help her feel better and to, try and mend our friendships and hopefully form one with Sunset."

AJ sighs after she speaks her case, as she finishes, and looks at Luna for her response. Luna seems, contemplative of their plan, as she gives AJ a hard look. "I do understand your points Miss Applejack, though I do have my concerns, if you promise me you'll be kind to Sunset, and help her in the school year and be her friend, then I'll not be a hovering guardian for her when she is with you, but your friends, I will not fully trust just yet, especially Dash, as she is a good student and sports player, she is not keen on holding her words." AJ regrettable nods in agreement, "Yeah, Dash got a bit of an issue with blurting things out. But, I know she'll try to let things in the past go, we all will." Luna nods, as she gestures for AJ to come to sit.

"Yes I do hope so, however, for now, while we wait, let us sit, do make yourself more comfortable, and may I ask how did you plan for today?" Luna asks, as AJ undoes her coat, and walks over to the sofa, and sits down. "Well, the plan is for me and Sunset to go shopping, chatting, and eat lunch, as I try to see how she is doing and get some items than we get picked up by Big Mac and head over to my home at three, for us to have the party." She says, quietly in case Sunset is listening in. "A surprise one, to make Sunset feel welcomed and know we are sorry and well, want to be friends with her still."

Luna nods, and thinks this over, as she sighs, "You are a good student, hard-working, caring, and very well mannered, plus you have known Sunset for a while, as I do recall the records, you're in a few classes with her, though I will say I do hope things work out, I rather not push her into anything. So if she decided to hold off on an answer to being your friends, do not be dismayed, just give her time. I know this is hard for her." AJ nods, and looks at her, "I know how she feels, sort of, I been on both sides of it after my folks died when I was little, I, blamed Granny and Bloom, then myself, but, with ma family by my side it helped me through it, so I plan to be there for Sunset." She beams, as Luna seems touched, and smiles a bit.

Then, Celestia comes down the stairs, with Sunset, dressed up warm, as Celestia speaks, "I'll be driving you two to the shopping center and open mall, and anywhere else you two need to go." She says, to both Sunset and AJ, as she looks up, and sees Sunset, who is not in a good mood, not angry, but just sad and tired, as she nods. AJ looks at Celestia, who looks like "One of the bad days." as they descend to the ground floor, and Sunset looks at AJ. "Hey." She says, slightly trying to sound alright, as AJ puts on a smile.

"Heya Sunset, you ready for this surprise bit of shopping and, hanging out?" AJ asks, as Sunset shrugs, "Yeah, just, sorry I, yesterday brought up some, old emotions, is all. Feeling homesick." AJ nods, and smiles, "Well, I think some fresh air and some movin' will help ya out." She says, as Sunset nods, but looks a bit unsure, as Celestia rubs Sunset's back gently. "I guess so, but, let's take things slow. It's just my medicine, I took it, and it's helping somewhat, though today, is just a bad day." She sighs, as she looks down. Celestia looks at AJ, with a look of "She needs some cheering up." AJ nods, and looks at Sunset, before smiling.

"Heya, what if I told you Granny was making some apple cinnamon pie later? May be done by the time we're done shopping, so I can ask Mac to drive us over to ma home for them?" Sunset looks up, and she looks surprised. "You, I, well, maybe we can hang out there, though will it be alright?" She looks at Celestia, who nods and smiles. "We'll be a call away if you need us, and Granny Smith is a trusted lady. I knew her since I was young." Luna chuckles, and sighs, "She also makes great pies." Sunset and AJ nod, as Sunset smirks a bit then thinks, "Well, sure I'll come over, though what about the others, how have they been handling all this? And you, I, mean Xavier and, the freaky stuff?" She asks, with her curious look and attitude.

AJ is caught off guard, but chuckles, "To tell ya the truth, I haven't thought about that, Xavier guy, or the other parts of that night, just been worried about you is all. Plus Christmas is comin' soon, speaking of I got gifts to buy and wrap to send to the girls." She says, as Sunset nods, and sighs. "Oh, so uh, have they been-" AJ walks to Sunset, and puts a hand on her shoulder. "We all been worried bout ya Sunset, but giving you space to recover. However, do know I got the girls on speed dial to meet up with us if you want." Sunset nods and thinks about it, as Celestia clears her throat. "While that is good to have, right now we should get going, we have much to do." Sunset looks up to her, "Yes we do, and maybe, we'll see how I feel as this outing goes on."

AJ and Celestia nod, as they get ready to head out, AJ looks at Luna, "Why aren't you joining us, Miss Luna?" She asks, wondering about this as the two get into their winter coats. "Ah, well I am doing last-minute online shopping, as I got most of everything else done during Black Friday, plus I have a small virtual meeting with some friends online at 2." She says, as Celestia chuckles. AJ nods, and smiles, "Well do have fun, Miss Luna." She smiles, as Luna nods, and heads off to her room, as Celestia and Sunset are ready, and AJ puts on her boots and soon heads to the cars, getting into Celestia's small eco-friendly car, as both sit in the back so they can talk, as AJ looks at Sunset, and sees her new coat and smiles.

"So, a question, did he just buy you that coat?" She asks as Sunset looks at her and nods. "Yeah he did, I guess he is caring enough to give me things I need. But let's keep that between us all, or else, people at school may think things are, weird." AJ nods, and chuckles, as she looks at Sunset, "Yeah, and having a magical duel and a Pony Princess visit isn't?" She asks, as Sunset chuckles lightly, "No, though, nor is having a raging demoness take over." AJ stops chuckling and looks at Sunset, as their on the road heading into town. "Now Sunset, that wasn't your fault, you didn't know it would do that, you looked scared when the crown did that to you. Plus you didn't do much lasting damage, I am sure our classmates will get over it, or get to know the real Sunset as I do." She smiles, as Sunset looks at AJ and sighs.

"You don't though, I, hid what I was and where I was from, and lied about my parents being here, having a home, and I did, steal from your family." Sunset says, as AJ looks at her, and sighs, "While all that is true, you also helped us on the farm, was ma friend, and while, we had our falling out, I knew the real you, the smart, science-loving girl who was not a bully, but a survivor and a fighter." She says, as Sunset chuckles, and looks at her. "Yeah, though, still I did make fun of you and to get popularity, and I also did, that." She mentions as AJ chuckles, "Hey, that was seventh grade, and I don't hold it against you, so we're fine. Now, whatcha gonna buy while we're out?" She asks as Sunset thinks on this, as Celestia puts on some Christmas music, and keeps heading to town, and the open mall and shopping center.

Sunset then smiles, and speaks, "Some gifts, some things I need, a few items to donate to the homeless shelter and soup kitchen I been to, plus I may get myself something." She pulls back a sleeve, sighing as she looks at her scars, and speaks boldly, "I want to get a tattoo to cover up this older scar." She says as AJ is shocked, and Celestia looks at the mirror and exclaims, "Excuse me, aren't you suppose to ask an adult if that is a good idea?" Sunset smirks, and responds, "I technically got it suggested to me from Doctor Wolf, he said tattoos to beautify my scars may help me."

Celestia focused on driving, and nodded, "Well if he said it may help, but I'll be there for that part, so you don't get anything, unsightly." She stats, as Sunset nods and looks at AJ. "So, what are you getting AJ?" AJ smiles, and soon tells her what she plans to get, stuff for the farm, the girls, her siblings, and Granny, as she got the other gifts and mailed them to her extended family already. Sunset nods and mentions how she wonders if she can mail a thank you gift or letter to Xavier, and get something maybe for the nurses and Doctor Wolf for helping her, as their conversation improves Sunset's overall mood greatly.

As they ride along and chat, as soon Celestia looks back and speaks, "We're almost there, so you both keep close, and keep your phones on you." She says, mothering the both of them, as she looks at Sunset in the rearview mirror, "And Sunset, if you have any issues or someone gives you trouble, just let me know." Sunset awkwardly chuckles and sighs, "I'll make sure to do that." as Sunset blinks, and internally thinks, 'She and the Princess are way too alike sometimes.' Sunset sighs, as they continue on with their car ride.

---End of Part 1---

Author's Note

Greetings all, and oh boy. Guess, who over-planned a chapter. Me, so to avoid a chapter over my max limit of 5,000 words, we'll split this one up into two parts, hence no end part for this chapter. Hope you all love it and know more are coming out in the days to come.

Day of Forgiveness - Part II

The car ride was comfortable, as AJ and Sunset both are quiet for some of it, as they ran out of things to talk about, as they soon arrive at the market and shopping center, as they exit from the car, and begin to head to it, as AJ looks at Sunset, and thinks, 'How shall I ask about her attending the party? Oh, this is gonna be hard.' AJ sighs, and walks along the cleared paths around the open area, as Celestia looks around, and smiles. Sunset sighs and walks beside them, as she looks around and avoids some eyes, as some students from the school are present, and Sunset wants to avoid them.

Celestia sighs, as she looks around, "I have to go grab some items, I trust you two can find what you need without trouble?" She asks, as AJ and Sunset nod, "Yeah Miss Celestia we'll be fine." AJ says confidently and Sunset chuckles a bit before stating, "Just as long as we avoid some folks, I rather not see them." Celestia nods and looks at Sunset, "Just come find me if you need help then, and Sunset, know if anyone gives you trouble from school, they'll be hearing from me." She says, as Sunset nods, and sighs, "I will, but let's hope that doesn't happen."

Celestia nods, as she heads into a store for candles and perfumes, as AJ looks at Sunset, showing a smile, "So wanna go check out the new games available? Or some sports stuff?" Sunset nods, but thinks, then pointing at a book store, "How about books first, I want to find a new book to read, plus maybe find a book on manners for Dash." She says, seriously, as Aj and her stare at each other, before both laugh a bit at that. "Oh totally, reckon Shy may give her one as well," AJ states, though Sunset looks sad at the mention of Shy, AJ pats her shoulder, "Hey you alright?" Sunset nods, and smiles, a slightly strained one, "Yeah, though uh, let's go, I do have to find a gift for Mi-, Luna and Celestia." She says, and AJ nods, as both head out to go shopping.

The shopping goes smoothly, AJ managing to buy gifts for her friends, secretly buys Sunset a gift, which is a fantasy book series, and a guide book for the newest Zelda game as Sunset was excited she was able to get one and uses a card she was given to her. AJ smiles and mentally goes through her list as they walk around, having spent almost an hour here, 'Got the gifts for Sunset, Dash some wireless earbuds to use when working out, Rarity that purse, and Pinkie that new cookbook she been wantin' plus dem new oven mitts. Just gotta get Shy a big blanket and some air freshener for her van, and the stuff for Bloom and Mac." she thinks as she then notices Sunset is not beside her, as she turns and sees Sunset looking into a tattoo shop. AJ walks over, and speaks, "You know we'll have to wait for Celestia to let you get one."

Sunset nods, and smiles. "I know, but, I bet I can get a book of tattoos, so my first one isn't ordinary." AJ chuckles, and nods "Right then let's go In to ask for a book." She says as they head inside. The shop is oddly jovial, with many paintings and drawn artwork, a crystal dragon on the counter, several chairs in the back with calm lighting, small TVs, and soft pillows. A short woman, with dyed pink and white hair, with some brown roots coming in walks over to the desk, stepping up onto something to see them as she is a short woman. She looks at them both with two deep brown eyes and notes their lack of a parental figure, "You two got a parent with you? Or are you sneaking out to get a tattoo?"

AJ itches her nose, as she gets an odd smell, from the perfume she is wearing, as Sunset speaks, "I am just here to get a book, and uh, ask a few questions." The lady nods, and walks over, as she smiles, with clear arm-length tattoos of lilies, gladiolus, and roses on her arms, as she stands before them, being much shorter. "Well then, before I do I must tell you it is illegal to get a tattoo unless you are legally eighteen years old. However, if you got a parent or guardian, and the right paperwork, we can do it after all the right forms are filled out."

Sunset and AJ look shocked, and AJ speaks, "So wait, what sort of forms would we need, Miss?" The lady sighs, "Names Miss Politan, and that would be your birth certificate, documents showing they're your parent or guardian, and written consent forms." She says as Sunset's smile drops, and she looks defeated. Neo looks confused, but AJ speaks, "Ma friend here, is an orphan, and she wanted one, her guardian is out shopping, but we don't have those papers on us." AJ says as she is glad she doesn't have to fully lie, for what she knows Sunset has no parents here in this world so it isn't a total lie.

Miss Politan looks at them both and sighs. "Look, without some confirmation of age, I am not fully sure you can legally get a tattoo." Sunset then blurts out, "All I want is to cover this." She says, showing her, less-scarred arm, as the tattoo artist blinks, and looks at Sunset with respect and nods. "I can get that, but I still have to take precautions, to avoid lawsuits. I am the co-owner with my friend Roman." Then a ginger-haired man leans back in a t-shirt that says "Gun's and Roses" as he speaks, "Something up Neo? Oh, kids." Miss Politan looks at him as he pokes out of a back office, as she speaks, "One has, those kinds of marks, wants to make them into art." The man nods and thinks on this before he motions Neo to come over, which she does, as AJ looks at the sad Sunset, and gently pats her back.

"Hey now Sugarcube, if this doesn't work out, we could buy those fake water tattoos and maybe, go over my place to do them? We can even maybe, invite some of the girls over?" Sunset sighs, "Maybe, but I wanted a tattoo, should have done more research, looked into the laws, and all that." She sighs, as her phone vibrates, and she holds it up. "It's Celestia, wondering where we went." AJ nods, and then smiles, "Tell her to come here, maybe she can help work things out." Sunset nods, and responds, as AJ notices Miss Politan's glance towards them, and the loud whisper argument she is having with this Roman fella, as AJ tries not to listen in. Soon Celestia walks in, and sighs, "So, you found a shop, is something wrong?" Sunset nods, and speaks, "I legally can't get a tattoo till I am eighteen, without my birth certificate."

Celestia sighs, and looks unsure how to handle this, before Roman speaks, "I, think we can make a small arrangement, seeing as you are in a difficult time of life, being newly taken in and such." Celestia looks at AJ and Sunset, but nods, and listens. "So, Miss,-" "Sunset, Sunset Shimmer," Sunset informs him. "Yes, Miss Shimmer, we can give you perhaps, a small tattoo, after we do some consent forms and legal paperwork, and instruct you on how to care and manage the tattoo, however, we must not mention this to the public, that we at Torchwick Ink did that art, or if we did, it was fully legal. And know we'll prefer if you only come to us for anymore, so another artist won't recognize the style and ask questions." He says, in a very, oddly casual manner, like he's done this before.

Celestia nods, but looks at him, "You do run a legal business right? Not going to hurt Sunset or give her a bad tattoo if we accept?" She says, sternly, as Miss Politan walks over, and looks up at the much taller lady, "Miss, I assure you, I am a professional and do the best art ever, so I will be doing this one personally, as to avoid mess-ups from the trainees. Luckily most are out on their lunch break, so we got time." Celestia nods, and smiles, "That is good, though how much will it be?" Miss Politan walks over to a catalog of tattoos and hands it to Sunset. "Each one has its price, but ones for the wrist and inner lower arm are around fifty to two hundred dollars." AJ looks shocked, as she looks at the catalog with Sunset, who opens it, right to a bunch of wrist ones, one of which is a small crow, with a skull-like head and amber eyes, as it is a bit more expensive.

Celestia looks at Sunset, who looks up, and Celestia smiles, "We'll accept, let Sunset make her choice, though how long will it take?" Roman sighs, and speaks calmly, "That depends on the level of design and size, a smaller tattoo may seemingly take less time unless you want an intricate design. Then some take multiple sessions to do." Sunset looks at him, and holds the catalog open, pointing to the crow, "How about this one, for my wrist, not super detailed?" She asks, as the two look at each other, and Neo smirks. "A black crow, number 117 wrist, oh yeah that one isn't too long, takes me roughly forty-five to an hour." AJ mentally curses, "Damn, we still gotta eat lunch, but, Sunset wants it, so, she'll get it." she sighs, and smiles at Sunset, who nods, and soon Sunset, Celestia, and Roman head into the back, as Miss Politan looks at AJ.

"So, you're a Smith, right? From the Apple farm on the outskirts of the city? I don't mean to pry, but I just wanted to know, I buy apples from the farmer's markets and see your grandma around, Mrs. Smith. I uh." Miss Politan looks away, and sighs, "I heard about your folks a few years back, been wondering how your family took it, my family, well my dad knew your folks, attended the funeral. May not recognize me with my dye job or tattoos." AJ nods and realizes who she is, and chuckles, "Ah it's fine, and I knew I known you from somewhere. But yeah I have been fine mostly, just helping my friend." She says, as Neo nods, and beams a bit. "That is good, though I would recommend getting a tattoo, though we both know your Grandmother wouldn't be too happy."

AJ nods, and looks around, "Yeah, though I have to ask, you both done this before, slightly not fully legal tattoos?" Neo looks around and leans up to her, and whispers, "We all got our secrets, Jacklin." She smiles, and soon both she and AJ begin chatting as Neo prepares her station for Sunset, mainly about their families and the holidays, before going to what they have been up to the last few years. "So I have been in school, learning to either become a better farmer or help expand the family business, though you, last I heard were in college." Neo nods, and smirks, "I am still in college, going to be a graphic artist and design major, but I got into tattooing, met Roman who is a marketing major, was into tattooing, and also artwork and such. He's out of college, and I met him and we got into this business, luckily my college isn't too far, and we work mainly on the weekends. Decent money, though his real work is getting new hires and running this place. We trained twenty people this year, now they're out there in this business with skills to stay afloat and help others get on their feet."

AJ nods, and smiles, as Sunset walks out in her t-shirt, and smiles. "Alright, let's do this." Neo nods, and AJ leaves the small side room, as Sunset sits down, and Neo tells her about the tattoo, puts on a face mask, and begins the process, as Celestia and Roman chat, mainly about how he has given many seniors from her school tattoos, and they talk about how to help Sunset care for the tattoo, and risk involved. AJ sits in the hall, and gives Sunset a supportive smile, as she pulls out her phone, texting her brother about the slight delay, but so far the plan is working, as she sends the girls a group text, "Girls, gonna be late, but do not worry, Operation Apology Party is still on, though luckily I ran into a family friend, so Sunset's in good hands." she sends it, as she waits, and watches this work occurring, and smiling more internally as Sunset seems excited for this, as her right arm is soon being inked up, and the work begins.

--An Hour later--

Sunset stands up and smiles, as Neo places a bandaid over the tattoo, covered in cold petroleum jelly, as Neo talks to her about some tips for aftercare, and saying how if she keeps it moisturized and clean, plus uses the right soaps and sunscreens, her tattoo should last a decade or so without touch-ups. Sunset and Neo talk more about future tattoos and how they will affect her skin and scars, and Neo subtly says to not do self-harm by saying "Let's make sure any works of art you get last a long time." AJ checks her phone and sees the girls want an update, but she replies with "You'll all see later." as she smirks and watches Sunset walks over, and smiles. "So after twenty-four hours, I can take the bandage off, though we got pictures of the tattoo. Wanna see the up-close shots?" She asks as AJ smiles. "I can see it up close after the bandage comes off, which will be by Christmas then, so now, shall we go eat? Bet ya hungry by now."

Sunset nods, as Celestia walks back over, having been outside to take a call, and smiles. "So, your alright Sunset?" Celestia asks with worry, but Sunset nods. "It was a bit painful, but that is normal, plus it came out good, can't show you until after twenty-four hours, so it can heal, and also gotta be careful with it for the next little while to let my skin heal without issues." Neo walks over, nodding, "Yep, she got all the tips and rules down, so she'll be all set."

"That is very good, thank you for this Miss Politan, and I did tell Luna of this, she seemed very surprised with this but supportive. Now, let's go eat then, finish up shopping, and discuss the afternoon plans." She says as the girls nod, but Sunset smirks, "I think I'll be going over AJ's place, eating some delicious pie, and relaxing there for a bit will be nice. Though if I need you to come to pick me up I'll call." AJ nods, but then smiles, "Why not stay a night, Granny would like to talk to you, and we could, if you want, invite the girls over. Make it a party or, something, if ya want." AJ says, hoping to not overstress but not try to sell the idea to Sunset, who thinks on it, for a long bit, as Celestia looks at AJ, hopeful.

"You know, sure I can come over to stay, as long your family is okay with it, though inviting the girls over, well, let me consider that for a bit." She says, and then sighs. "But that means grabbing some clothing for a sleepover, and my stuff." Celestia, "Oh, don't worry, I can have Luna prepare it all, and I'll drop it off, but that does mean you'll need a ride." AJ smiles, and speaks confidently, "Mac's old truck has enough room for three, so he can give ya a lift to our place."

Sunset looks at the two, curiously, before smirking, "You two planned for me to have a sleepover at your place didn't you?" Celestia and AJ blink, but AJ sighs, "We did, so ma family can help make sure you okay, we're a caring bunch, plus I do want to make things up to you. And maybe make the girls come by and apologize." Sunset sighs, and looks down, "They don't, no one has to apologize anymore, I know you all didn't mean to push me out, you just all didn't think I could change, which from how I acted before..." She trails off, as Neo had left the room to give them privacy, not wanting to eavesdrop on this conversation.

Celestia hugs Sunset gently, "Sunset, you were just mixed up and confused is all, and that is in the past, you have changed, and want to change into who you want to become. Now, I won't repeat myself from the hospital, but, we all forgive you, and want you to forgive us." Sunset sighs, and nods, "I want to, and I am, it's just, sometimes I have thoughts like I did, taking power, and other times it is more of the dark ones." AJ nods and puts a hand on Sunset's shoulder. "Easy now, whenever you think those dark thoughts, remember this, your life is precious, and no matter what, you should keep on livin'. That is what I told myself before, and it helped me." AJ beams, as she mentally sighs 'Specially after I moved out to Manehatten for that bit, really should have stuck to my home.' but pushed the thoughts back.

Sunset smiles, and speaks softly, wiping a tear away. "Thanks, AJ, and uh, sorry for making the mood so, sad. Let's go eat and, talk about something fun." Celestia and AJ nod, but still look worried, as they all say thank you to Neo and Roman, leaving Torchwick Ink, and going to a place to eat, as AJ mentally hopes that she can help Sunset deal with her emotions, like she has, but is thankful Sunset has it easy, "At least she doesn't get my moods." she chuckles to herself, as they head inside a nice restaurant, and gets some lunch. With warm food, Christmas music softly playing, and each other, the three enjoy their meal, and AJ smiles, happy to have Sunset still here, and hopeful her parents watching from wherever they are, are proud of her.

Well, that was a longer chapter of this story, my apologies if it bored you dear listeners, but this story is not about grandeur or adventure, but of emotions, feelings and connections. Maybe in time, that may change, but for now, do know I shall keep telling you this tale, so come by my little inn, grab some drinks, perhaps eggnog, and do know, that I hope you all have a Happy Holidays. See you in our next chapter, of a Shimmering Hope.

Author's Note

Hello everyone, I am sorry for the delay but hey, I said this was going to be a two-part chapter. I do hope you enjoyed them, with their more plot moving and soft themes, plus I did show two, possibly recurring background characters, with some past connections. And yes if you know who they are, they're Neo and Roman from RWBY, just as peaceful normal folks No their not my original creations, more of a fan interpretation of characters I like from a series, which I did enjoy. So the good news is more chapters will be well on the way, with hopefully no major issues arising from the holidays to ruin it. Think of this as your holiday gift, if you celebrate any holidays.

So take care, have fun, and stay safe this new year, and remember to be kind to one another.

Apology Party

Sunset and AJ, after a lovely lunch with Celestia, now wait for Big Mac to finish his shopping so Celestia can head home to grab Sunset's stuff, and deliver it, as Sunset is on her phone, trying to keep her fresh tattoo safe and not messed with too much, as she thinks to herself, and the tattoo she got. ' Once I find his number, or meet him again, I am gonna show it to him, Xavier would find this interesting they had a tattoo of an amber-eyed crow. What are the chances of that?' She contemplates as AJ sits back with her bags of stuff, as Celestia sits with them in a covered sitting area, as Sunset notices someone and sighs. "Great, please don't notice me." She says quietly to herself, but still, AJ heard her and gave her an odd look.

"What was that?" AJ asks as she sighs, and points subtly to two police officers, a man with light orange skin and dark blue-gray hair and thick sideburns, in his uniform which is well kept but with some winter gloves and police winter jacket on, as the other, is a more tan-skinned man, younger by twenty years or so, with dark well-kept hair, and a clean military look. He looks to be fresh out of the army, as both walks around casually drinking coffee. "That, is Flash's father, Magnus Sentry, and uh I guess that is his new rookie patrol partner." She says, avoiding eye contact, as they walk by, and Magnus and the other office talk mainly about how crazy folks come out during the holidays.

Celestia looks at Sunset, "Why do you not want to speak with Officer Sentry?" Sunset sighs, and looks at her, mentally wishing to not tell her this, "Me and Flash, dated, but broke it off, however now I am worried he told them about me, or his dad is upset at me dumping him." She sighs, and Celestia chuckles, "I am sure his father won't judge you for dumping his son, nor would Flash tell them about your past, he is too nice of a boy to spread that sort of secret about."

Sunset nods, and sighs, "I hope not, but I did break his heart." She thinks, as she mumbles, "Yeah but I did dump him in the middle of a date, plus he, never actually knew me personally, I kept a facade up, to stay the popular girl." She looks at Celestia, who simply nods, but smiles. "Well, maybe you can make it up to him, besides, I am sure once you explain things he'll understand." AJ nods, and then chuckles, "Yeah, though I don't think he is gonna mind you being whatcha are, if him being all soft for Princess Twilight like he was anything."

Sunset chuckles at first, then it grows into full-on laughter as she finds this oddly funny, "Yeah if he even gets that we're both literal ponies turned human.' she thinks to herself, as she calms down as both nod, and smile, happy she is laughing, as soon Big Mac pulls up to the parking area, and waves. "Welp, our ride is here, now you ready?" AJ asks kindly, as Sunset nods, and gets up. "Yes I am, and you'll be by once you got me all my stuff for a sleepover right?" Celestia nods, standing and taking her bags.

"Of course, I will Sunset, now go on, be with your friend for the afternoon and evening, and know-" Sunset interrupts her, "That if I need you, to call. Yes, I know." She smiles, as Celestia smiles back, a tad embarrassed she keeps repeating herself. "Right, then I'll be off, stay warm, and see you both in a bit." Celestia smiles, as they both say goodbye, and head to Mac's truck with their purchased gifts all safely wrapped and bagged.

They both get into the cabin, after putting the bags in the back of it, as AJ smiles, and talks to Mac, who gives simple nods or says "Yup" or "Nope" to her questions, as Sunset sighs, and watches as they pull out and head out of town, as she thinks. 'I wonder if Granny planned this out, probably her and Celestia to get me at least one friend via Jackie. Well, I will try to make this work. I wonder if we can invite Shy, or Pinkie. Though I do wonder if Dash would come if we invite either, maybe Rarity is a safer bet? No no, she still dislikes me for ruining her chance at the Fall Formal.' She sighs, and looks at the passing snow-covered buildings and light poles, as people are out and about, doing last-minute Christmas shopping and such as tomorrow is Christmas Eve.

As she thinks things over and allows the siblings to chat, she sighs, thinks over who would be best to invite, and finalizes they all should be there, so their friendships with each other aren't at risk from not being invited. She looks to tell AJ, but she is on her phone, currently grumbling as Rarity soon calls her, as she soon talks to her, and Big Mac focuses on driving. She will hold it off till later, whenever Rarity ends her call.

Soon the drive is over, as they go up the drive, Sunset sees the freshly shoveled path to the home as Granny sits, and she notices Shy's van is there. Additionally, she sees Granny talking to one tired Bloom, as their dog is outside, running around in the snow, to get her all tired out early before it gets colder. AJ looks at Sunset and speaks, "So uh, I might have mentioned earlier about this, so it seems they didn't wait for me to say your alright-" Sunset sighs, and chuckles, "No that sounds like the way Pinkie, Dash, and Rarity think when they agree on something, let me guess Pinkie Party?" She inquires as AJ nods, as Big Mac parks up by the van, and stops the truck.

They all exit, and head out to the porch, as Bloom looks away, as Granny welcomes them getting up in her thick winter attire, and with a smile. "Sunset dear, your here." She gets up, moving to hug as Sunset smiles. "Hello, Mrs. Smith." She softly states as she looks unsure of the hug. Granny chuckles. "You can call me Granny dear, but if you're not ready for hugs, you're fine. Shall we get inside?" She asks Sunset, as she nods, and they all head inside, taking off winter layers, as all the girls are here.

Dash and Pinkie are in the kitchen, Pinkie making cookies and snacks, as Dash is helping her. Rarity is too busy trying to decorate the tree to notice Winona rush in, as Bloom calls after her, and Winona nearly knocks over Rarity. She freaks out, screaming a bit, before Shy calls Winona over, and gets the good girl away from Rarity, as she thanks her. Bloom soon walks over to Shy and helps handle Winona. Rarity sees Sunset and speaks. "Oh, uh hello."

There is an awkward silence, for all of two seconds, before somehow Pinkie is next to Sunset, and smiles. "SUNSET, YOU CAME. Oh sorry." She backs up and pulls a large gift from her hair. "Here, part one of tonight's Apology Party." She says, as Sunset blinks, and sighs, "Pinkie, you didn't have to get me-" Pinkie speaks, "Course I had to get you something."

Sunset blinks, and sighs, 'It's Pinkie, how bad can-', her train of thought was derailed as inside the box she has opened, was a copy of "Starswirl's Spells, Enchantments, and Other Magical Marvels" here in her hands. She had only ever seen three of them, all of which were in Celestia's care.

Pinkie smiles, as Sunset looks up, and is silent, as Rarity speaks, "Uh darling, hello." Pinkie looks concerned and waves her hand in front of Sunset. Sunset blinks, as she ponders this, 'Pinkie someone has a rare ancient tome, in mint condition, without a sign of being OPENED, just here, now. How? Is, this is a joke it has to be-' she opens it and reads the from paragraph, and sighs.

Sunset looks at Pinkie and speaks, "Pinkie how did you get this?" She asks as Pinkie smiles, "Oh well I found it in an old antique and oddities shop in town. I got it several weeks ago, for Twi, but you may want it. Cause I bet it's not from our place." She says, as Sunset nods, sealing the box up, and putting it right into her backpack.

"Yes it is from Equestria, but, I'll worry about it later because if I begin to read that I won't stop till hunger demands." The others nod, and soon Granny speaks, "Alright, well then, let's go get you settled in." She says, as Sunset nods, as soon she and the others lightly chat, with some tension between them all, but slowly it ebbs and flows, fading away as the girls, one by one, work their way up to apologizing.

After two hours, and Celestia dropping off Sunset's stuff, they all sit together for dinner, but before they begin, Granny speaks, "First, I think it is time for some words to be said." She states that this intrigues Sunset, as Granny doesn't mean grace probably. Bloom soon stands up and speaks.

"Sunset, I am so sorry for what I did to ya. I shouldn't have made that fake account and made things so, well bad for you. I am really sorry, and I shall help you fix this all up with anyone, and will take the blame for it. Scoots and Sweetie will too. Don't worry, we'll make sure everyone knows we did the blog and were Anon-A-Miss." She says, and Sunset nods, sighing, as she goes to speak, but Dash stands up.

"I am also sorry for snarking at you and believing in the whole Anon-a-miss blog, thinking it as you and not even hearing you out. And also for saying sh-crap behind your back. I was just, a really bad person then and I am so so SO sorry Sunset. I can't forgive myself for it, and I am, worried you hate me for it, which if you do, makes sense." She says, slightly crying, as she looks tired, as she sighs. "I am just sorry, and, if you want to be, friends at all, even not now but, in the future, I'll be the best damn friend yet, no back talking like that." She stammers out as Shy rubs her back.

Rarity soon stands, and speaks, "Now, I, am sorry for the whole incident too Darling. It was uncouth and wrong of us all to not hear you out, especially me. I should have known it was Sweetie, while she is so sweet and innocent, she also did once ruin my dresses because I forgot our sibling hangout was that night. And, I will also say Sweetie will have her apology and is currently doing chores for our folks, who also scolded her but luckily the worse she got was no phone or social media. Now, I will like to be friends with you, your fashion is on point, though why are you wearing your jacket, I mean it is-" Shy elbows her, as Rarity clears her throat. "Sorry, rambling. I will just want to say, I would like to be your friend, properly this time, and if you allow me to be, I will be grateful." She finishes, being the most elegant of the apologizes.

Shy stands but immediately Sunset speaks, "No, Shy you don't need one, I...know you defended me, and while you didn't believe me during the whole Anon-A-Miss incident, I forgave you, since I was horrible to you before I got...redeemed." She says as Shy shakes her head. "No, I am apologizing about not defending you more, and just, not being a good friend at all. And I...I-" She sniffles as she takes a moment to recompose. "I just, want to be your friend, and help you stay safe." She says, as Sunset nods, and wishes she could hug her, but sadly she can't, it would look weird 'I can hug her later.' Sunset determines.

Pinkie soon speaks, "So I did have a big huge speech about how sorry I was, and how I didn't want you being alone or hurt again, but then I was like 'Silly Billy, you can't say all that, it will make your teeth fall out.' so instead I planned all this, and also made you a bunch of gifts and will be your party gal for as long as you wish. Also, Maud scolded me some for not believing you, so yeah I know I goofed if Maud gets mad. She is usually so chill and is good at reading folks. Oh oh, also all my sisters hope you're alright, my folks were, less than positive so I'll leave what they said out, but oddly they and my sisters got gifts for you, oh and so did Flash, I sort of-" She stops, as Sunset has a look of 'Oh fuck, Pinkie please no.' as this was the last thing she wanted.

AJ rubs Sunset's back, Pinkie awkwardly chuckles, as Bloom speaks, "Uh, something up Sunset?" AJ looks at Pinkie, who blurts out, "Oh just that Sunset and Flash have history, you might know, and well, uh, I didn't tell him much, but his dad is an Officer, so he probably heard since like, half the officers all got put onto "The Watch" to make sure they check places for folks with sessional depression and help them. Something new they put in because no officer or person was gonna find you. I mean uh...." She looks around, for a way out of the sad start to her rambling.

Granny interrupts, and speaks, "Girls, settle down, and don't worry Sunset if problems happen you got me to help ya. Now, we gotta supper to eat up. I also made your favorite." She says as Big Mac sets down the food, and a big pot pie, with vegetables, mushrooms, and other good non-meat foods in it, as Sunset feels her stomach growl. She smiles, as she looks at the girls, and speaks. "I, do accept your apologies girls, and know, I don't plan on doing anything like that night again. I also have a reason not to." She says, showing her bandage, at first they all look worried or scared, as Sunset then speaks up, "Oh don't worry." she says, swiftly, "it's just a tattoo. I can show you all in...roughly 16 hours or so." she says, calmly, as they all blink, and Granny chuckles. Soon a discussion of the kind, how it was done, and more begins, as Sunset feels relief flood through her, as this feels, better. Not perfect, not better than before Anon-A-Miss, but, a step in the right direction.

They all soon eat up and finish dinner, Granny soon retiring to the office, as she has some calls to make, to her family and also to see if the New Year's Eve Family Gathering is going to happen for the Smiths. Big Mac soon heads to the basement with Winona, as he has some small things to do, as AJ mentions he has the usual thing he does, carving a new wooden statue, for Bloom. A symbolic gift of some kind. Sunset only knows this after asking once why they all have a collection of wood-carved animals in their rooms. AJ only responded by saying they were from her pa and left it at that. Only after a few years did Sunset realize Bloom never met her father or mother, so someone else had to have carved the toys, but by then she stopped caring about others, and never realized it was Big Mac.

Sunset soon sighs, a bit sad after seeing and recalling these memories, as she wonders how Twilight and Princess Celestia are in Equestria, celebrating Heart's Warming, and also perhaps maybe wishing her well? She checks on her book and finds no responses, so maybe Twilight is too busy right now. In the meantime, she soon sees Rarity begins to braid Shy's hair, and Sunset smiles, as she walks over, 'Maybe this is how I can also repay them all, living my life, one step at a time.' She soon walks over and asks Rarity to do her hair next, as soon Dash asks Sunset to play a game, and eventually they all get into hanging out, and being friends.

Well, seems things have gotten better for Sunset. New gifts, even if confusing, have arrived. However, will others be so easy to forgive as them? Only time will tell dear reader. So do get comfortable, and enjoy my tales to you. And whenever you may read this, do one thing for me. Be kind to one another. See you in our next chapter, of a Shimmering Hope.

Author's Note

I have no excuse. I got covid, for a month, got better, had chaotic work, became a DnD DM suddenly, got too invested in my campaign and preparing, also had two cases of just looking at this chapter and going "No needs to be better." Thus after ~~4~~ 5 rewrites now. I hope this one is satisfying to you all as it is for me. Also do know I will from now on, publish my chapters on Fridays, or try to, my goal is once every two weeks. Also, I have been out of writing for a while, so please have mercy on any issues, it might be me rewriting this late at night after work, or me being out of touch. So, look forward to Fridays for new chapters, and I'll see you all, well hopefully by the Friday after next, if not sooner.

Be kind to one another, and stay safe out there readers.

The Truth Under the Moonlight

Everything was going great at the Apology Party, as AJ watched as her friends and family chatted and make amends with Sunset. It has been a while since she felt so calm, and she enjoyed the sight of Sunset, Pinkie, and Rarity chatting, as Dash gets her hair braided, upon Pinkie's request, by Rarity. Bloom and Shy were playing with Winona, as Big Mac and Granny were in the kitchen, and they are finishing up the snacks for when both are asleep. AJ sighs, as she looks outside, at the nice calm night, one with little clouds, and a bright full moon.

'Wait, why is it still a full moon? I thought it would be over by now.' AJ's thoughts shatter her joy with anxiety and fear, as she looks around rubbing her neck. Her neck is rough, like it always gets when this happens, as she realizes it's been too long since she last took her medication. She pats her left pocket, though soon recalls she left her pills upstairs, with her dad's hat and her big r. She tries to subtly and quickly move to the stairs, to head up to get what she needs, when Rarity speaks out, "Oh no Darling, stay put please, I am going to do your hair next." AJ stops, and awkwardly chuckles, 'Ah crabapples Rares, not now, think Jacklin, what to distract her with.'

Sunset then speaks out, "Actually, could I talk with you for a moment AJ, privately?" AJ gulps, but nods quickly, "Of course Sugarcube, follow me." AJ then dashes up the stairs, as Granny and Big Mac both look concerned, and Bloom gulps. AJ hears Sunset follow, as she dashes into her room, puts on her hat, and opens her drawer, to find her pills are out for the month. AJ's face is pale with fear and swiftly looks through her drawer for any spare pr emergency ones she thought she hid here but finds nothing. 'Ah, shit no no no no no.' She begins to panic, which leaves her condition unchecked, as she quickly ducks into her bathroom, and locks the door. ' Just gotta make it till morning, hopefully, Granny or Big Mac can keep the girls busy.'

------Sunset's PoV------

Sunset enters AJ's room, which is decently sized, a large bed sits in the corner, with a closet and dressers on one side, a big window looking over the farm on the other. She then notices the bathroom door is shut, and she calls out to AJ. "Hey, AJ, you alright? I mean, if it's...that...then I can relate since...never had those back home." She says awkwardly, as she thinks to herself, 'How can humans females put up with that each month? I hope AJ is okay.' AJ doesn't respond, and so Sunset shuts the bedroom door, and walks over to the bathroom door, hearing soft whimpers, and AJ whispering to herself. "AJ? Hey, is something wrong?" Sunset notices, the open drawer, and the empty bottle on the bed. Her mind is ablaze with worry, as she runs over and checks the pills, her thoughts now shifting to fear of AJ having a medical emergency. She picks the bottle up, and sees the name and company are ones she never heard of, 'Wait, what kind of medication is AJ on? What even is this stuff, I...ugh, stupid medical names, I should ask her. She would do the same for me, and be there for me.' She thinks, recalling their younger years, and the good times she had in the Smith Family home before her pride took over.

She tosses it aside, as she walks over back to the bathroom door. "Hey, so I wanted to...thank you for helping host and...make things right. I...know what happened this past, three days or so have been crazy, but I...know we knew each other for a long time, and I noticed the pills...are you alright Jackie?" Sunset prays using AJ's old nickname will not have her get angry, but instead, she hears a sigh from the other side. AJ speaks in a rough, low voice. "No, maybe...I...look just, keep outta here, and let me handle this. It's a personal problem."

Sunset nods at first but recalls how she often told Flash when he asked her why she was locked in the bathroom when he had her over. She often cut herself back when they dated, due to that feeling, that numbness she hated, as she couldn't be truthful to him. She then feels a sinking feeling upon realizing he might freak out when he finds out she cut herself and tried to take her life. 'Right, worry about that later, right now...AJ needs my help.' "So, you're not..hurting in there are you? You know...um...I can help you." She softly asked as she leans by the door, and hopes her gamble here or insistence on helping isn't wrong.

"Naw, I...well..." AJ goes silent, as Sunset waits for her to respond, as AJ speaks softly. "Do ya' know the myth of...lycans? Like from your world do you have da myth?" Sunset is confused, but sighs. "Y-yeah, actually, in Equestria it's a real thing...it's just hidden from the populace by laws and such. In ancient times folks were locked up for it or sent away, till Princess Celestia installed laws against such actions towards supernatural beings, due to also half the Night Guards being Vampires and many of the ruling class across Equestria being vampires, Lycan pack alphas, and fae-born ponies who live long lives and help keep things stable and progressing." Sunset rants, recalling those lessons vividly from her former Teacher, like much of those lessons she found them both insightful but boring, though the Princess did insist on them, and a good work ethic.
AJ is quiet now, as Sunset comes to a realization. "Wait, AJ, your...AJ opens the door." Sunset has a tone of fear and excitement. She has never met a Lycan, but if AJ is one, then could she learn of it and maybe cure her? 'Wait, it depends on if she was born a Lycan or bitten. And I can't make it since this world lacks half the ingredients if it is just a bitten case, though I can help her out, thank Celestia she gave me those lessons on supernaturals.'

"Why would I open the door? I'm...I am a Lycan and I could accidentally hurt you or the others...besides, I look weird, and...it will scare you." Sunset sighs, and then speaks calmly, "You're talking to the pony turned human who met Death, is the former student of a Solar Deity, and who finds most humans look odd. I am so-" AJ then unlocks the door and opens it, to reveal herself.

Sunset sees AJ, with a pelt of light brown-blonde fur over her entire body. Her hair is now thick and full, like a mane on her head, neck, and lower back. Her clothing is gone, as it sits folded up on the toilet. Her fur covers herself completely, though Sunset feels herself blush at the sight anyways. AJ's body is toned, strong, and well built. Her legs now are like a wolf's hind legs, with big paws at the end of them. Her hands are clawed and massive, with paw pads on them too. Sunset spots her tail, hanging down in a sign of worry and fear.

Sunset then looks at AJ's face, which is hard to do when AJ is now taller than her. Aj's green irises shine, as she has a short muzzle and a cute little brown button nose. Sunset slowly walks forward, in awe of AJ. "Well, go on, freak out now." AJ sighs, as she looks down, whimpering. Sunset blinks, rubbing her eyes, before holding her face by her cheeks and awes at her. "OH...MY CELESTIA! Your fur looks so soft...and...wow...this is so...so cool. Wait..who else knows...is Granny and the rest of your family like this, or are you the only gifted member?"

AJ looks shocked and then begins to softly pant, as she finds the cheek rubbing oddly satisfying. "I..ah..keep doing that. I um...Granny ain't like us, my ma was bitten when..she was...a youngin you see. She kept it and used it to help her family farm. Ma showed my Da on their first date, and apparently, he loved her still, so they got together...and then they realized their kids would be Lycans by birth. Long story short, Mac and I take pills to keep ourselves in control, and Bloom will start taking them once she hits puberty since that's when a lot of the hard-to-hide stuff happens." She sighs, and mumbles, " I wouldn't call it a gift really, more like a curse."

Sunset takes this all in, and nods slowly, still giving AJ some rubs and scratches on her cheeks. AJ may be trying to hide how much she loves this, but her rapidly wagging tail betrays her. "I mean, depends on your views, and probably because of the fear of the unknown humans seem to have. But I still wonder, why hide this from us?" Aj sighs, and looks at Sunset, "Why did you hide your cuts and depression? It's somethin' personal, and I ain't want it getting out. Besides, how will they all feel about being friends with a monster?"

"I don't know, you're all friends with me, and I was a she-demon. But I am sure we can keep this between us two for now, and I know nothing b-'' Just then, Rarity opens the door, and speaks. "Sunset is ever.....every....." She stops, looks at AJ, and blinks. Sunset rushes past Rarity, and shuts the door, locking it to make sure no one else barges in. Sunset sighs, "Rarity, stay calm it's still AJ so Ju-'' Rarity, is meticulously looking AJ's body over. Sunset then notices her jaw is hung open, in shock. However, she seems, less afraid and more in awe of AJ.

AJ then sighs, "Hey, Rares." Rarity snaps out of her shock, "Oh..um..h-hello AJ...m-may I just say... you're...um.." She gestures to AJ's lack of cover, as Sunset sees the robe, and tosses it to AJ. AJ takes it, slips it on, and then walks over to the bed. She lays down on it, as she sighs and looks at Rarity, who hasn't yet taken her eyes off of AJ. "So um, Rarity if you can not tell the others, I think AJ would appreciate it."

"Oh..um...yes I...just....I...AJ is a werewolf." AJ groans, "No I ain't.....I'm a lycan. Werewolves are just Lycans who only turn under the moonlight. I can turn whenever I want, but...when the moon is full, it's hard to not turn...is all. Now, you both can...go I...I'll be down in the morning and we can talk then." Rarity shakes her head, "No darling, you and I are gonna talk in private. Sunset, go down and keep the others down there please...I...have to talk to AJ." Sunset looks confused, but nods.

"Alright, just be careful please, both of you." Sunset then heads out, and as she walks towards the stairs, she hears the door getting locked, and she sighs, 'Well, this is strange, I wonder how strange this night can be. But, oddly it, makes sense, AJ and her siblings were so close like a lycan pack, seemed to have their odd behaviors, and are all super strong. Heck, Bloom can light both Sweetie and Scootaloo easily. AJ once lifted up Bulk when he broke his leg during football, and Big Mac, well what can't he lift?' She then turns, and enters the living room, to see Pinkie slightly glowing, as her hair is holding items, Shy and Dash both look at her shocked.

Pinkie smiles at Sunset, "Oh hey Sunny, so long story short, I'm a Fae. Well, that doesn't explain a lot. Okay so, Shy asked why my hair never stays brushed and normal, and why she found some stuff in it. And so I explain to them why is because of magic. Fae Magic, they all didn't believe me, so I showed them this. I can also do this." She then snaps her fingers, as several bags of candy, some small notes, and two crystals float around her.

Sunset blinks, and nods slowly, as she processes this, 'Pinkie's a fae, that.... explains a lot, wait...PINKIE IS A FAE and has magic! AJ's a Lycan, Pinkie's a Fae, Death is here...oh....this world does have magic. YES, I KNEW IT, THAT EXPLAINS SO MUCH! But why do they hide it? Is it illegal? Could they get hurt or do folks here hate supernaturals even more than the old days back in Equestria? There were those witch trials...no no...Sunset calms down. Deep breaths.' She follows the plan to help her stay calm, one she made with Dr. Wolf. 'Everything will be fine, so two of your semi-friends are magical beings, and have awesome gifts they don't possible see as gifts. So, you're different too, this just means you can help them, once Twilight can send over some books or documents, wish she could just send PDFs or files via computer. But that is when she responds to my messages. Now, deep breath, and let's be cool'

Sunset then smirks, and chuckles, "Yeah, that explains you being so...Pinkie. AJ and Rarity are upstairs chatting, and we have permission to game without them. So, shall we?" Pinkie nods, as Shy and Dash slowly nod too, as Bloom smirks, then sits in Pinkie's lap as Pinkie smiles. "OH, Alright, but I will kick your butt in Smash still Dash." Dash nods, and chuckles, "Sure, but tomorrow, we talk, all of us about this."

Pinkie nods, "Pinkie Promise Dashie, now, let's play." She says with excitement, as Sunset sits by Shy, and soon all four begin to play Super Smash Brothers and have fun though also process the night's events.

------AJ's PoV------

AJ lays on the bed, on her belly, as she looks at Rarity, who has been pacing since she locked the door. Rarity is honestly handling this better than AJ expected, "I mean, she could have fainted, or screamed and got the others running up here.' Rarity then stops, looks at AJ, and walks over. She sits on the bed, before laying on her side, her face now next to AJ's, as she tries not to slip off. "So, um, h-how long have I been kept out of the dark of this?"

AJ sighs, "Since we met Sugarcube, now I know I'm supposed to be honest, but I mean...can you blame me for not saying 'Oh hey there Rarity, I'm Applejack Smith, a wolf monster to be, wanna be friends?'" AJ sighs, as Rarity then begins to pet her stomach, but gives her a look, asking if this is okay, to which AJ nods, and lets Rarity pet her stomach, just wanting to have some comfort, and also because her hand is warm, and helps distract her from how hungry she is. "I understand AJ," Rarity starts, as she sighs, seemingly wanting to say something more, but shakes her head, "but you could have told us when we got older. I mean, I could of at least made you some clothing that can be worn when you're like this...and...wow your fur is so soft."

"Yeah, Sunset said it is...don't know why it is. I don't wash in this form, pretty tight fit in the showers." AJ states, chuckling a bit as she sighs. Rarity then sighs, as AJ slowly begins to wag her tail, enjoying Rarity petting her. "Well, you take great care of your body, you're strong, a hard worker, and you often smell like apples and flowers." AJ sighs, as her brain is tired, and now grumpy as she is hungry but can't go eat, so she yawns, getting sleepy as this transformation does drain a lot from her. Her tired brain doesn't fully process what Rarity said. "I do make sure I'm fit to work the..farm...thought...that means sleep, 'specially after transforming. Can you..stay a bit...to help me..fall asleep?"

"Why of course Jacklin, um. Can I call you-" AJ nods, "Yeah, I mean, only family and Sunset ever call me that, so...don't tell the others." Rarity nods, as AJ yawns, and gets comfy on the bed, Rarity hugs her gently and keeps on petting AJ. Eventually, AJ falls asleep and accidentally pulls Rarity into a hug, though Rarity doesn't mind this, as she finds it comfy, warm, and safe in AJ's strong furry arms. AJ doesn't hear Rarity's whispers and feels bad for getting tired, but she knows tomorrow she'll be able to hear what Rarity has to say. ' After breakfast, can't think on an empty stomach.'

A single crow looks at the home, as a dozen or so smaller ones look up at it. The crow nods, as his servants, go off to watch over the city and spread the news. 'I do hope I can help them more...but sadly soon my time here will be cut short, as the days will grow longer soon, her domain will be the one they spend most their time in. Yet I know they are in good hands. I should still gift her one last thing.' The old crow with amber eyes flies away, into the early hours of a winter night. He has shopping to do, a bike to inspect, and most importantly, an old friend to visit.

Oh my, that was unexpected. I do hope in the morning, Rarity and AJ may don't end up in an awkward moment, but who knows how they will react. Now I hope you enjoyed my tale, and do know, that I am always here to ask questions. So come back either dawn or dusk, and sit by my fire, for I shall tell you another part of the Story, of the Magic Girl, and the friends she makes along her way.'

Author's Note

And, ta-da. Hopefully a consistent set of chapters, with good writing and clever explanations. And yes, they're both supernatural creatures. I hinted this before, and soon more and more magical elements will occur, but only to aid in showing character differences, problems, drama, and also for flavor and fun.

Additionally, I just love the idea the whole Apple Family just knows the trio are lycans and are so accepting of it because they are. Also, Pinkie being Fae is me explaining, somewhat, how Pinkie Pie is Pinkie Pie in my story. So hope that makes sense.

Next up is the big Christmas Celebration, which might be split up into two, one with Sunset and her rekindling friendships, and the other with her and her new found family. So expect a two-parter to be released next, after I rewrite some parts to help myself out.

This is Blue singing out. Be kind to one another, and stay safe out there readers.

Christmas Celebration- The Promise

It is the morning of Christmas Eve, and Sunset finds herself awaking to the odd sensation of being hugged, having had a restful night unlike the previous. She looks around, dazed about where she is, as she sees the gentle arms and hands of someone around her waist. Soon she notices who they belong to, a sleeping Fluttershy, dozing off with a peaceful expression. Sunset recalls yesterday, the party, her friends apologizing, discovering secrets, and that magic truly is here in the human world.

'And now Shy is hugging me in my sleep, well I guess I am stuck here.' She thinks, as she lays back down, and processes the night's events, though she looks at her tattoo, still wrapped, and wonders how it looks. She thinks about her past, her ambitions, and her goals. She soon holds her arms close, as she sighs, thinking over the week's events, and how she never thought she would have a good Christmas here after her betrayal of AJ and dumping Flash before the school year began.

She hears movement, as soon Pinkie sits up, and yawns, moving Dash off of herself, as she stands up, using her hands to mess with her hair, in an instant, it becomes a fluffy mess. Sunset chuckles, and sighs, 'Pinkie is a Fae, well that explains some parts of her. AJ and her sibling's loyalty is like a pack behavior I think, though now I want to look into this more. Maybe, me helping them understand themselves will help me get my own problems under control.' She thinks to herself, as the others stir before Big Mac walks down, and whispers to Pinkie, who nods, both soon heading to the kitchen, as Sunset loses sight of them with Shy blocking her view.

Sunset's breath hitches in her throat, as she looks at her. Pink hair drapes over her face, and soft breaths flow from her, peaceful and simply stunning. Sunset blinks and soon turns away, her heart echoing in her head. 'Ugh, this again, fucks sake why now? I was so mean to her, and I am trying to make it up to her. But this, I can't. Should I move away? Would she be mad? Oh, Celestia help me!' She thinks, conflicted and trying not to move too much, as Shy slumbers away. Sunset resigns herself to remain still, and let Shy hug her. 'I hope no one notices, but, she does feel warm.'

Meanwhile with Applejack

AJ stirs, as her stomach growls and she feels sore as hell. She grunts, and sighs. ' Now, gotta get some medicine from the store before tonight.' She sighs, and tries to look around, before noticing a weight on her, and looks down, to see Rarity's face against her stomach and abs. AJ tenses up, before swiftly knowing what to do. She gently lifts Rarity, easily moves her to lay on a pillow, and gets the blanket back on her. She looks down at herself, thankful back to being human.

AJ gulps, feeling nausea. 'Sunset and Rarity know, oh Crabapples. Welp, let's hope both won't be too awkward to explain this too.' She soon goes about getting the robe tightened on her, and going about her usual morning routine, thinking over what to do, how to explain everything to the girls, and if she should ask them to keep it a secret to their other friends or not. She is so busy in thought she fails to hear Rarity wake, and seems confused, before speaking in a hushed voice.

"AJ? Darling, you here?" She whispers as AJ forgot how dark it is, and her eyes see better than a typical person's. Soon AJ walks over, changed and ready for the day. "I am here sugar cube," AJ whispers and gently touches Rarity's arm. "so, you slept alright?" 'Hopefully she won't ask questions yet. I am starving.' AJ thinks, her stomach growling loudly.

Rarity sighs, and softly responds, "I did sleep quite alright, though a bit, too warm. Now, we need to talk, about this." She looks at her, eyes narrow and trying to see in the dark. "Also mind turning on a light? Or opening a window it is pitch black in here. How can you see?" Rarity questions, as AJ chuckles, and turns on a lap.

"Sorry Sugarcube, uh, part of what I am, and," with a heavy sigh, AJ accepts that she has to answer questions now, "sure I can answer ya questions. Just know, I may not have all the answers." She chuckles, as Rarity sighs, rubbing her face a bit. "So, how, long have you been, a Lycan right?" She asks, as AJ sighs, soon sitting down comfortably on the bed, as she looks at Rarity.

"About, well technically all my life, my ma was turned into one, a wild lycan had taken a bite into her, and she became one. See it can only happen via a bite in our lycan form. But we only get that part when we hit puberty, so around 4 or 5 years ago. I got a handle on it Rares." She says, smiling softly, in assurance, as Rarity looks shocked, and intrigued.

"So wait, who else in your family is one? Or well, do your exten-" AJ cuts her off, and speaks, "Yes, most of ma family knows, its a family secret, also why the Pears and Smiths get along, was because Granny knows folks in the mystical stuff. But from what I know, no one else is lycans, well besides my Aunt Orange and her family, she and they are pretty distant though, sort of why I went there for a summer with ma family when I was young."

Rarity processes this, as AJ thinks, 'I hope she doesn't ask how they are lycans, cause I barely recall that story. May need to ask them again soon.' Rarity looks up and whispers, "AJ, is this why you avoided sleepovers for a bit and started being more day-loving? I just thought it was your work ethic but it seems you wanted to...avoid this being discovered by us. And I am, a bit confused. I mean, I never met a lycan before, and now I know your one. Why it doesn't change anything, besides makes me feel safer around you."

AJ blinks, and speaks, "Uh, why is that? I thought-" Rarity, know interrupts her. "Honestly AJ, do recall I am a Twilight book lover, and was on team Jacob, also while I have grown up with cats as you know, I do adore dogs. And now one of my best friends is a big, strong, and fluffy lycan. Uh sorry, I just also really love how soft your fur was, it is like your hair, though that might be odd to say." She says, lightly blushing, as AJ feels her cheeks warm a bit.

"Well, not terribly weird, Bloom likes to cuddle me too. Big Mac's fur is a lot more rough and wolf-like. I got my ma's long hair kind of fur, I recall cuddling her in her lycan form..." AJ sighs, as Rarity looks at her, and sighs too, the mood shifting from slightly silly to somber. "I know you miss her, but, I think she is smiling at us being silly and talking about your fur." She says, as AJ nods, and sighs, looking down. Soon she feels Rarity's delicate arms hug her, and she hugs her back, the two sharing a moment, as AJ lets her emotions flow, no tears, just a soft melancholy feeling slowly dying down.

Back with Sunset

Sunset has been stuck, as Dash and the others slowly stir, as she is stuck facing Shy, who hasn't let go of her. She has pretended to be asleep, to make this less awkward for herself, but soon, the smell of food cooking stirs Shy, who opens her eyes. Sunset blinks, and panics once more. "Starswirl's Beard, what do I do? Shit." she thinks, as she then feels a voice speak to her, 'Be smooth, and say hello.', as Sunset blinks, and is unable to figure out if she just imagined that, as Shy blushes, and lets her go.

"Oh, I am, s-sorry." Shy stammers out, moving back and sitting up, as Sunset sighs, "Your fine Shy, good morning." She manages to say it smoothly, and Shy calms down, and the two have an awkward moment before Dash speaks up. "Hey sleepy birds, we got waffles, eggs, oatmeal, some fruit, and other stuff for breakfast. Oh, and I am gonna go find AJ and Rarity." She says, as Sunset blinks, and speaks, "Actually, Dash, I got it." She says, as Shy sighs, soon standing as she heads to wash up, and Dash chuckles, "Naw, wake up and get all ready, presents happen soon, and besides, your hair is a mess."

With that, Dash heads upstairs, as Sunset sighs, and soon goes about getting ready, grabbing clothing to change into, and her hairbrush, as she heads to the upstairs bathroom, as Shy uses the one downstairs. Soon Sunset is ready for the day, as she exits to see Rarity and AJ, holding hands as both stop, and AJ motions for her to enter a guest room, as Sunset nods, and enters. Soon, AJ speaks up. "So, uh, you okay?"

Sunset smiles, "Yeah yeah, just an awkward morning, but uh, are you okay? After your transformation. Your starving I bet. And, uh, I should say Pinkie, revealed to everyone she is a fae-" Rarity blinks, and looks confused. "I..suppose you weren't there, and AJ didn't tell you huh Rarity?"

AJ nods, "No, I haven't not yet, and well that makes me coming out as a lycan easier." Sunset is shocked, and mentally thinks, 'Is that, a good idea, well, considering how accepting is of Pinkie, maybe this will be fine. She nods, and shakes off her shock. "I say do it, and then I can ask you a billion more questions," Sunset says, smirking.

"Well Darling, only after she eats, and the others ask their questions." Rarity states, and sighs. "Though we don't need to drop it just yet, though AJ, should she promise it too?" Aj thinks, before nodding, as Sunset feels her concern grow, unsure what this promise is.

"Well, what is this promise?" She asks, slightly worried. Rarity soon takes her hand and speaks. "If the girls dislike Jackie over this, we stay by her side and also help them keep this a secret, especially Dash. Do you promise me that?" She asks, looking into Sunset's eyes, as Sunset feels her nerves loosen, and she simply smiles and nods. "Good, now, let's get breakfast." She says, soon dragging both down, as they arrive at the table, and a large morning feast awaits.

Their breakfast was delicious and very filling. Now the girls and the smith family all sit together, having some fun, and preparing to open presents. AJ looks nervously around, as she talks to Granny and Big Mac before this, both said they support her decision, but say not to show her full transformation, and only do a partial one if she can, so as not to ruin her clothing or risk an accident.

Thus they are all cozy in the living room, AJ sits on the sofa, Granny in her chair, Big Mac in the old rocking chair Pa made, and Blood is pouting as she can't open her gifts till tomorrow, but AJ smiles, as Pinkie hands out gifts. AJ keeps a special one, in her pocket, and looks at Sunset, who has Shy right beside her. Dash is helping Pinkie, and Rarity sits next to her, Winona, lays in her lap, and gets a lot of pets and praise from Rarity. Soon Pinkie finishes passing out gifts, and now, it is time.

"Hold ya hor- her, hold on girls." She says, not sure if saying "Horses" is insulting to Sunset, so she avoids it. "Twilight never minded it, but then again better safe than sorry.' "So, before we begin, you all know, about Pinkie I presume?" She asks, making sure everyone knows, as Dash, Shy, and Rarity nod, and Dash smirks.

"Yeah Pinkie is some magic fairy-person, which is totally awesome, AND, makes so much sense." The others nod, and Pinkie giggles, as they all smile. Shy gives AJ a skeptical look, as AJ sighs. "Yes well, she ain't the only one-" Shy: "You're a fairy too?"

"Nope Jackie is a Lycan." Pinkie blurts out, before awkwardly chuckling, as Dash looks confused. "A what now?" She asks, as AJ sighs, soon focusing, as she does her partial shift, though this is only her fourth attempt at it. She grows in height, gains fur on her face and her teeth feel tingly. AJ feels her ears shift and grow, and also her eyes become more sensitive. Soon she stops, feeling like she closed up a dam mid-release, but it holds, as she awkwardly rubs her neck. Rarity, Sunset, Shy, and Dash look on shocked, before Shy walks over, and hugs her.

"Fluffy," Shy says, before blushing and stepping back "I mean, uh, cool." Dash begins to bounce up and down. "COOL! COOL! THIS IS FREAKING AWESOME. Look at you, your awesome, and well, a bit weird, but still cool. Though, isn't this what a werewolf is?"

"Nope, see lycans can control it, werewolves can't." Big Mac says, as Granny and Bloom nod, and the others look at them, as Big Mac simply shifts his eyes, and Granny speaks with a chuckle, "I ain't one sadly." She says as she drinks her coffee still. Bloom giggles, as Rarity looks at AJ, curiously, "So, uh, this is a controlled transformation?"

AJ nods, as Sunset is marveling at this, as is Shy, while Dash soon blinks. "Wait, this is why you are as fast as me, your literally part wolf. Sunset is fast because of pony strength, and you got wolf strength. So I am the fastest normal person." She says before Pinkie speaks, "Well yes that is true, but you are also the only one of us who plays every school sport and seems to never lose energy. Are you even human?" She questions, as Dash blinks, before both begin to laugh, as Dash being something would be funny.

"Actually, uh, I..uh..." Shy looks down, and nervously. "I do, have something to say, which is...AJ, w-why did you hide this?" She asks, as Sunset steps in, "Well, like I hid what I was because she was scared you all would take it poorly, which has been proven wrong. I learned last night when she filled changed." Rarity nods, as the two gals nod, and soon begin asking more questions. AJ shifts back, and soon adjusts herself, before relaxing, and answering questions, as best she can, with help from her family, as the gals ask Pinkie them too.

After an hour of questioning, the girls get to open their gifts. First is Sunset, who gets a colorful winter scarf from Rarity with a matching pair of gloves and a hat. With that is a very well-made clay pot filled with cookies, and decorated by Pinkie. Next is Dash, who got her, a 150-dollar Amazon gift card. At that everyone looks at Dash, who sighs, "Look I..don't know you enough okay, so use that money well, it was, actually my own money."

Sunset chuckles, "Your fine Dash, thank you, and now-" She opens AJ's present, and AJ smiles, as she pulls out the newest fantasy book series, which is "The Witch in White" as the cover has artwork of a couple of folks, various skin tones and the lead having ginger hair, in white robes. The first three books are there, as well as the Zelda guide books for Twilight Princess. Sunset smiles and looks at AJ. "I assume you got me this since your the only one who knows me as a nerd."

"Well, they all do now." She smirks, as they all smile, and soon Sunset finishes her gifts, a large sweater, teas, and more comfort items from Shy, and Sunset smiles, and thanks Shy for them. Bloom also hands Sunset her gift, which is a homemade apology card, and a scarf. Sunset accepts both, and gently hugs Bloom, forgiving her and hoping she learned her lesson about the harm social media lies can cause, but both soon hug and seem to be on better terms. Soon the others open their gifts, the usual fancy items from Shy, Rarity, and Dash, as their more well off, while AJ and Pinkie have quality thoughtful gifts for everyone. Sunset looks to feel bad, but soon a knock on the door occurs, and Big Mac answers it, only to find no one there, but five boxes sitting there.

"Uh, packages for, Sunset?" He asks, confused. 'How did that happen? And why didn't Winona hear anyone coming up? AJ wonders, as Sunset blinks, before coming over to check them, and reads a note, before she chuckles. "Uh, so seems, someone bought the gifts I wanted to get you all, even though I thought it would be too much."

AJ and the others blink, as Dash speaks, "So, gonna be help bringing it in?" She asks, as AJ nods, before Big Mac easily grabs three of the five big boxes, as Sunset grabs the last two. They set them down, as Sunset sits and goes to her pocket, only to pat it, and check all her pockets. "Uh, OH, right. Does anyone have a pocket knife?" She rubs her neck, as the others all look around, none of them having any.

Big Mac soon pulls out one, from his set of keys, and hands it to her. Sunset opens the packages up, though doesn't remove anything, as the others are excited. AJ still wonders how they got there, before she notices, an odd small crow sitting there before he caws and flies away. Soon, Sunset finishes opening and hands the knife back, to which Big Mac closes it up and puts it away safely. "Alright, let's see what we got here." She beamed, opening the smallest one, revealing a new set of tennis shoes, sporty ones, a flight jacket, and a pair of aviator shades, though also with them is...a signed hat.

Dash soon bolts over and takes the hat, which is wrapped in a bag and freaks out. It is a wide-brimmed, tall hat with green ribbons on the base, and signed by "AK Yearling" on the brim. Sunset seems confused, before she chuckles as Dash begins to ramble about a book series and also some old movies. Sunset though is also nervous, asking how much it is, as Dash is about to mention it, but stops. "Don't worry, I bet he got it cheaper, I assume he knows the writer." She says as AJ notices how Sunset's nerves are being hit.

Soon the others check the boxes, each Sunset swiftly matches to their new owners. A Sowing Machine and several nice material bolts for Rarity, as well as a new design book. Cookbooks, copper pots with safety handles, and party makers' dream supplies for Pinkie. Shy gets several large blankets, a large stuffed animal, and oddly enough a simple card, which Shy soon begins to tear up over. AJ lets Dash help her calm down, though the tears seem to be tears of joy. Now it is her turn, as she gets, some new work boots, an envelope, and oddly enough, a scarf.

AJ picks up the scarf, as Granny gasps, "T-that looks just like the one...your mother wore so often...before the accident. It was ruined in the crash." She says, as AJ blinks, and holds it close, looking at Sunset. Sunset gives her a soft smile, as soon she comes over and hugs them. Soon all the girls hug together, as AJ speaks, "Girls, can we..all make a promise of something?"

"Of course Darling." Rarity answers, as Pinkie nods, Shy gives a small "Yes" and Dash chuckles, "Sure thing AJ." Sunset sighs, "Of course Applejack." she reassures her, as AJ sighs. "Promise to never let anything break us apart again." She says, putting her hand before her. Pinkie swiftly puts her own hand out. "Okie Dokie Lokie." She beams, as Shy puts her hand in too. "Never again." Shy proclaims, with some confidence oddly fitting of her. Rarity soon puts her hand on Shy's, "Well of course." Rarity proudly states, as Dash smirks and puts her hand in, "I can keep to that." she says, as they all look at Sunset.

AJ sees Sunset hesitate, unsure of if she can do this, before she takes deep breaths, and soon puts her hand in, "I think I can keep that promise, but you all promise me, to hear me out in the future okay?" Everyone nods, as AJ smiles before soon they all chuckle, and get back to the celebration, enjoying gifts and chatting, as AJ puts on the scarf, 'Ma, I hope you and Pa are happy up there.' she thinks, as she soon joins Shy and Pinkie for some gaming before they all part this evening for family celebrations and their own Christmas eves.

-----End of Part 1----

Author's Note

I have kept my schedule so far. Sorry, yet again I look back at old chapters and have to make some changes. Originally, this was only 2,000 words and much less impactful. So I filled it in and hopefully, you all like it. Next up, is Sunset's spending time with her guardians, and how they have been doing.

I do not apologize for cliffhangers and feel free to chat to me about questions in comments or DM. Just be respectful. Be good people, and enjoy yourselves.

Christman Celebration- Forming Family

After the lovely time with her hopeful friends, Sunset and the others get ready to head home for Christmas Eve and enjoy some time with their families. Dash helps Shy pack up her sleeping bag, as Rarity is helped by AJ. Pinkie remains here, as her family will be over here soon, as she somehow convinced them to have a bigger celebration of Christmas with the Smiths. Sunset sits on the side, looking at her tattoo a bit, deep in thought about the party. The others have been kind, and show they do care, though she feels still cautious and nervous about everything.

Luckily for her, those odd thoughts seem to be quiet, and she was able to enjoy her time with them all and the Smiths, as she watches Celestia's van drive up, as she has her gifts and other items ready to go. Big Mac offers to help carry stuff out to the car, and they all agree that next week, Tuesday, they shall meet up in town for a hangout, as the weekend will be for the holiday, and Monday most have chores and cleaning to get done. Sunset wraps up herself in warm clothing, as Big Mac begins to help her. Celestia exits and comes over, "You had a good time Sunset?" Her voice is hopeful and full of both nervousness and kindness.

"Yeah it was very nice, had a lot of fun and we all, sort of made up," Sunset says, as she looks at her walking up, as Granny speaks up. "Oh, they had a blast playing those new-fangled games. And Sunset got a lot of gifts, and some nice person got gifts on Sunset's behalf." Granny says, smiling as she winks to Celestia, assuming she planned it, while Celestia looks confused, and nods. "I see, well thank you for having everyone over," Granny explains it was no big deal, as Sunset soon helps Big Mac put her things away, and let the two adult talk.

Shy walks up to her outside, all bundled up. "Su-Sunset, I...have to ask something," Shy asks, before going quiet, as Sunset looks at her, and smiles. "What's up Shy?" She notices her odd glancing down, and her worry grows a bit.

"I am just, wondering well if you want we can maybe, my mom's work has a big party for New Year's eve, and...mind if..you come with me? I...am sort of having to go, since I would rather be there than home with my Brother." Shy mumbles and Sunset nods, before smirking.

Sunset smirks and replies happily, "Sure thing Fluttershy, I can come with if you're okay with that. What kind of party is it? Formal? Or informal?" She asks, before adding, "Also, can Celestia and Luna come too?" Shy thinks about this, but replies. "I think they can, let me check with my mom first."

Sunset nods, as she puts a hand on Shy's shoulder, and Fluttershy doesn't eep, a good sign. "It is fine Shy, just text me the info." She says, with a smile, as soon Shy gives her a soft smile and nods. The two soon get interrupted by Dash shouting for Shy, as Dash is being driven home by Shy, the only one here with a license.

"I have to go, talk to you later Sunset." Shy says with a smile and soon gives her a soft hug, before letting go and heading inside. Sunset feels her heart skip a beat, and she feels, warm and happy even when standing outside in the cold. Big Mac walks over, and softly speaks, "Seems she and you are on better terms than everyone else." He says, with a chuckle, making Sunset blush and think on his words, though he soon just pats her back, and in a supportive big brother gesture, before he takes her bag and helps load it up into Celestia's tiny car.

Sunset looks at him and speaks, "Thanks, and I can hope we all become friends." to which Big Mac goes "Yup" as he Celestia walks over, in her big winter coat. "So, Sunset you ready to head home?" Sunset nods, as she smiles, "Yes I am, but first." She heads back inside, thanks everyone, and also gives Granny a hug, before she and Celestia head out and back on their way home.

-----Meanwhile within the City-----

A strange man walks in the blasted sunlight, mask on, scarf up, and sunglasses on, as he really hates the sun. Even on this cold, semi-cloudy Christmas Eve day, he finds himself wanting to head back to his place to read, but his boss sent him on this for a reason. 'Why do I get the Daytime shit.' he thinks, as the man has a brown winter cap on, and a big black jacket, not made for winter, more of a biker's jacket.

He soon arrives at his destination, the bike shop, as the man at the front counter looks up, and speaks. "Hello and welcome to Harold's Rides and Gear, how can I help-" He goes quiet, as the man removes his sunglasses, his black eyes looking at the man.

"Hello Harold Genovese, I believe you have a bike for my boss. I need it today." He says, coldly, as the man gulps, and shakes. The man chuckles, 'Wow, the Boss was right, this guy is a pushover. Can't believe he paid him instead of just making him create the bike for her. Well, he's rich so who cares.'

The man nods, as he soon trembles, and grabs some paperwork. "O-of course...follow me." He says, heading into the back, as the man follows, the short Italian man soon guides him to a beauty of a motorcycle. One Harley Motorcycle, with a custom fiery paint job custom helmet, jacket, and more. "H-here it is....my brother Tony got the jacket and helmet done...the rest is already set and will be delivered to your boss soon." He says, shaking as he looks nervous.

The man whistles, sliding a hand along the bike, as he smirks. "He'll love it, perfect gift for his kiddo. Nice work Harold, see this is why we pay you." He says, smiling as he sighs. He soon hands some papers to him and speaks. "I'll be driving her for a test. Make sure you did make it custom with those special parts." Harold nods, as soon the man suits up with his own helmet and walks her out. He soon gets the engine purring, and in a flash is off driving around the block.

It handles like a dream, has fantastic grip even on snow and icy roads, excellent responses, smooth gear shift everything feels comfortable. The engine sounds quiet, but it is one powerful machine, yet feels so gentle and smooth. The mysterious man takes the motorcycle for a good spin, before coming back, and driving inside Harold smiles, as the man kills the engine, walks inside, and gets off. "Great Bike, LOVE IT. Here, bonus payment." He says, tossing a bag at him, full of cash, which Harold thanks him.

Soon a black van rolls up, and he helps load the bike and other gear in, and the man sends a text to his boss. "Bike looks and runs smooth boss, she'll love it. Be dropping it off at the time told. Thanks for sending me this job. Might be daylight work, but hell the test run made it worth it." The man types, as he soon gets inside the van, enjoying the darkness and a mysterious lady speaks. "Had fun, Jack?" The man, Jack chuckles, "Trust me, I always love a good ride, Babe." He smirks, as both laugh, and a third person drives the van, to a place unknown by many, to get their job done on time.

-----Back with Sunset-----

Sunset and Celestia arrive back at their home, bringing in the gifts through the Garage with help from Luna. Sunset soon finds the Tree has many presents under it, the kitchen smells of good food, cookies having been made, along with tea and other goodies, and it seems Luna has been busy decorating and preparing for tonight, and tomorrow. Sunset and her guardians all sit down, after putting her gifts from her friends away, and take a moment to rest.

"So it went well?" Luna asks as she looks at Sunset. "Yes, it did." She replies as Luna nods. Luna seems very deep in thought, as Celestia gets them all some tea and cookies to snack on, as they chat in the living room, all three on the big sofa together, the TV simply playing a Christmas Movie, one of many on today no doubt.

"That is good, I hope you all can try to become friends, but if anyone does try to hurt you or ruin your name like this again, or not believe you...well serious actions will be had." She says, sounding more, ashamed of herself still, for not believing in Sunset, as Celestia sighs, "I think we can help mitigate issues at school, and enforce a better ruling for bullying, cyberbullying, and awareness of false information." She says as Sunset and Luna both nod since these sorts of rules would be helpful, and Sunset knows the school is very lenient on some rules, having used them to her own advantage before.

"I think that is a good idea, but don't just do this because of me, I think some other bullies and...myself need some punishment for how we behaved." Sunset adds as Luna nods, but Celestia speaks up, "You have your own punishment now, plus you were homeless and have, well a unique life so far. I think having that crown take you over and recent events are punishment enough." She says, in a stern and kind manner.

Luna hums, as she speaks, "Yes, and helping is out here, staying in school, repairing broken friendships, and making amends with others at school can also be done still to help mold you into a better person." She says as if coming from experience. Both sisters look at Sunset who nods before Celestia claps her hands, standing up as she smiles.

"Now, instead of just sitting, let's finish up decorating, and we have dinner plans to make-" Luna: "Let's have Sunset decide that." She says, before Sunset smiles, and speaks. "Let's go to a place. Where Xavier took me for food. I believe it was the Gem Dragon." She says as both think on it, but Celestia soon nods.

"The Gem Dragon it is, do they do carry out?" She asks as Sunset is unsure, and soon they begin to look into the restaurant for a menu and carry-out options. They find the website, and on the front page, is a message saying 10 percent of all funds go to their community homeless shelter. Sunset smiles, and wonders if they are the people who made delicious ramen and vegan meals for the shelters these past few years.

They all soon manage to get an order called in, and Celestia heads out to get it. In the meantime, Luna and Sunset play some two-player games, mainly Nintendo games with some Xbox games too. Luna shows off her skills in Diablo 3 and other games. The two bond via gaming, and chatting over their days, and Sunset seems, pretty relaxed with Luna, who shows her nerdier, gamer side to her. Soon they hear Celestia return, and help her bring in food, as they pause their games and all get their meals, cuddling up in the living room by the fire to eat, and watch some funny Christmas movies.

It is a lovely time, though soon Celestia seems to go to her office for something, and Luna looks, a bit nervous. Celestia soon returns, with papers in hand. "Sunset, can we talk?" Sunset nods, as she stands up and walks over to her, now dressed in warm sweats and with slippers on. "Is something up?" Sunset asks, a bit nervous and a little worried.

Celestia sighs, and then smiles. "Recall those, papers I asked you to sign. Well, uh, they weren't just for you to live here and health forms. See, I didn't want you to feel, unwelcomed here, and well I suppose you wish to not end up back on the street. And to make it official, that your family..." She holds out the papers, which are adoption papers, officialized and accepted by a judge, and has everything filled in and properly done.

Sunset blinks, and a part of her can't even process this before she feels, water on her cheeks. Celestia looks nervous, and Luna walks over. "Are, you okay?" She asks as Sunset wipes away her tears and smiles. "Y-yeah I just, wasn't expecting...you...thank you." She says, as she soon hugs Celestia, who hugs her back. Sunset is shocked, but extremely happy, though is it because she has a home and family, or because she feels relief from worrying about being a burden, it is hard to tell.

The two embrace, as Luna joins the hug, as the family now sits down to continue, as Luna and Celestia clarify she can call them by their names, or Mom for Celestia, and Luna would like to be called Aunt, but both don't push it. It is a great and happy evening, as they all bond and Sunset grows to accept this change in her life, for the better, While her doubts and worry remain, and her fear of disappointing them both lingers, she can focus on the bright side of things now. Soon, they all retire for the evening.

As Sunset gets settled down for the night, with her guardians retiring for sleep or late-night gaming, a group arrives at their home. Soon via unknown means they enter, placing gifts, stealing cookies, and getting the items their boss told them to deliver in place. The Bike is placed in a spot visible to the windows and given some kind of protection from the snow and from being stolen. The individual in Christmas Elf attire, but obviously not actual elves, make it quick, and soon drive away.

Xavier himself soon arrives as a crow, dropping the keys to the Harley in Sunset's snow-covered flower box attached to her window, and flies off. He watches her take them and soon sees the motorcycle, as she rushes out to check on it. Soon, Sunset rushes back in and opens the Garage, as Celestia soon is moving, and both get it into the garage for safekeeping. The Xavier in his crow form soon flies off, however unaware of another individual watching.

Sunset and Celestia both go back to bed, as a blond-haired girl soon walks into their home, takes a picture of their house number, and sighs. 'Maybe she can help me.' the lady thinks, before soon walking towards town, soon vanishing into the night.

Well that was quite the pair of chapters. Seems there is more going on than expected. But those may be explored next time. So now, people, do come back to join me by the fire, and relax as I tell you this tale. Do be good to one another, and always ask me questions. Good Morning, Noon, or Night my listeners.

Author's Note

Another chapter is finished and hopefully fully edited on schedule. Though I feel this one is, less than perfect. I felt unmotivated due to events in my DMing experience. The summary of it is two players blew up a key story area, and I have been scraping my brain apart to figure out how to fix this...as they blew up a teleportation device for them to escape a plant-Flood-like zombie horde. So I have been distracted and had to ENTIRELY rewrite this chapter as the first old drafts have too many errors and also I feel them be too old and do not fit the themes I want.

I hope the themes of mystery and such hit a bit, as I am expanding the world and also showing Sunset is healing...slowly. I myself have mental illness, but never suicidal thoughts. So I am trying to portray the slow healing/general shift out of the depression I have experienced myself. It still lingers but is easier to ignore and able to avoid falling back into it.

Also do feel free to comment with questions, concerns, and any grammar or other issues, cause I am no professional writer, and editing is now mostly done via Grammarly. Sometimes I may mistakenly have stuff that makes the entire chapter feel off, as Esorial pointed out in a previous chapter, which I do thank you for that. Helps show the Smiths as a good family now I changed some things.

Anyways, I hope you all enjoy this chapter, be good people, and enjoy yourselves.

A Christmas To Remember

It is an early Christmas Morning, and as folks wake up and children rush for their presents, a young blonde girl wakes up in her sleeping bag, as she stretches, and sees in her room, or more of a shared room, she is the first one up. Around 3 teenage girls all sleep here too, with wild and unkept hair, far to one side. She has gotten used to this by now, sleeping around strangers. 'At least this place isn't under surveillance.' She thinks to herself, as she stretches. She itches her back, and soon heads to the bathroom, to get the process of cleaning herself up over with. 'Same shit different day.' she thinks to herself, as she grabs her things and walks to the bathroom, keeping her valuables on her.

She washes up, having been needing a shower, as she thinks over her plan so far. 'So far it has gone well, Father hasn't called me or sent the boys after me, so he thinks I am not in real danger. Linda has kept my money safe in my account, but they're still frozen, so that means they want to wait me out on this...and I am in the right city thanks to my mother's note. Now, I have to somehow find her, though I think that girl and her mother can help me since they seem wealthy, maybe they know her? Or...maybe they can help me find her. I am pretty much lost now, this place is so big.' She thinks to herself, as she finishes up her shower, and begins drying off.

She pulls out the necklace her mother gave her, as an early Birthday gift, and rereads the note she left.

“Happy Birthday Sweetie, they won’t know you're gone. I am living in the area of Canterlot City, I left you a plane ticket to the nearest airport a city over, in case your father finds it, can't have him find me. I also got a bus ticket to the airport, a chip to put in your phone to turn off the GPS, and some money for you. I know I haven't been around much, but I finally have myself settled down safely here. I won't let him get away with stealing you from me. I love you, and I want to see you again. -C."

She sits down, and sighs, as she looks at herself, wondering how much she looks like her mother she barely can remember. 'I hope I can find you, mom. She thinks, before she finishes up, and heads out, wearing a large hoodie. She soon gets ready to head to the kitchen, get her meal, and start her search.

------Meanwhile with Sunset------

Sunset wakes up in her warm bed, snuggled up tight due to the coldness of the room. She feels tired though, perhaps from staying up, or due to how early it is. She gets up and puts on her big robe, and slippers, as she shuffles to her bathroom to wash up a bit, and notices her eyes look off. She leans into the mirror before she suddenly sees her demonic self's face, and it speaks. "YOU'LL NEVER BE RID OF ME WEAKLING, I WILL BE BACK!" It says, before grabbing Sunset and dragging her into the mirror, as blood leaks from her demon-self eyes, and she feels hot red pain in her face and back of her skull. She tries to fight back but feels weak, and tired before she feels her face slide through the mirror-like she is drowning, and suddenly she sees nothing, and an oddly-familiar voice says, "Sunset, Wake up."

Sunset bolts up from her bed, panting as she shakes, shocked at her dream. She shakily takes some breaths, and soon grabs her phone nearby and uses it to check her face. She sees herself staring back, no signs of her demonic self-present, as she lays back down, and tries to calm down. She reads the clock, seeing it is early 10 in the morning. and she takes deep breaths and holds herself. 'It was just a dream Sunset, that thing is gone, keep it together.' she thinks to herself, as she sits up, and checks her room. She manages to see everything is in order, and soon she hears Celestia and Luna talking quietly below, along with the smell of breakfast coming up.

Sunset slowly exits her bed and grabs her robe, and phone, as she slides on her slippers. She avoids her bathroom entirely and opens her door. She looks down, to see the living room is normal, it is light out, and her helmet and jacket still sit by the tree, along with the other presents, as Luna walks over and looks up at her. "Sleep well Sunset?" She asks, though gives her a look of concern as Sunset can probably tell she is a bit pale from the sudden nightmare.

"Sort of, uh, another bad dream is all." Sunset says as Luna sighs, and nods, knowing she has gotten them since the Fall Formal, as Sunset told them this when she first came to stay here.

"I see, well we can help you recover from it, hopefully not another nightmare about....that night?" She asks, as Celestia looks concerned, soon finishing up making large waffles and some coffee.

Sunset hesitates, and nods, "No it was the formal, sort of, I just...wanna forget it." She says as Luna nods, and Celestia speaks, "Of course, we can help you do that, though don't forget-" Sunset nods and finishes her sentence, "To write it down in my book, I will. I hope this next session won't freak him out." She says, as Luna chuckles.

"I do think Dr. Wolf is not the kind to be scared by nightmares Sunset. Also, I will say, I wish Psychology back in my youth was so well understood. Would have saved our folks a lot of money." She says, as Tia nods, and both seem to sigh, and while they smile, both soon look down, and swiftly the topic is changed. A common occurrence is when they mention their youth.

Celestia soon sets the food down on the coffee table, as she sits down, with Sunset by her, and Luna on the other table. "So, I was thinking, we open presents, relax, enjoy our brunch, then maybe check out the motorcycle. I am...surprised Xavier got you one."

Sunset shrugs, and smirks, "I was surprised too, but then again, he is also overly giving I mean he got gifts for everyone for me and seems to give a lot out. I did a bit of research last night, and his most well-known donations are to things like cancer research, disaster relief, and other big things. He has little shade on him, outside of being secretive, and oddly enough he seems to be magic, and so is the bike." Sunset states, as Luna and Celestia nod, though also seem a bit, confused.

"I am, still shocked magic exists here." Luna says as she looks at Sunset, "Uh, nothing personal, I just thought, it was all, fake." Sunset nods and Celestia speaks, "Though, this does explain a lot of weirdness in this city if magic is weird, that is even before you arrived."

"I mean, you do have a portal to Equestria here, open or not, magic might flow through. I could study it in spring, for now, coffee." She says, and drinks it down, sighing as the warmth flows into her. Celestia and Luna nod, and drink up some of their coffee, as they have some small talk and bond with the delicious food and the warmth of the living room. Soon though, Sunset gets a text, which is from Shy, who sends a short text: "Hi, hope your morning is good." Sunset smiles a bit and replies: "I am fine, Merry Christmas Shy." she looks up, and notices Luna with a curious look, as does Celestia.

"Shy checking in on me," Sunset says, as both nod and smile. "That is very kind of her." Celestia says with a growing smile, as Luna nods, "Yes, very, and you seem happy about it." Luna adds, lightly teasing Sunset, who smiles a bit.

"Yeah, I feel bad about, well what I did before, and want to make it up to Shy." Sunset explains, as both nod, and Luna smirks, "Perhaps some outings together will help, you two and maybe Jacklin or Rarity, a mutual friend who isn't so hostile." She states as Celestia nods. Sunset nods, and smiles, "A great idea Vi- I mean...Miss Faust." She says as Luna chuckles, "You do recall your my niece now right? Just Luna is fine Sunset." She says as Sunset rubs her neck.

"Right sorry." Sunset says as Celestia puts a hand on her shoulder, "Your fine Sunset, we'll be taking things slow with being a family, an odd one too. Though, since we're all done eating, let's open gifts." She says, as both nod, and soon put their dishes away, as they get ready to find out what they got each other, as Sunset got them both some small things.

Sunset, Celestia, and Luna soon go about opening their gifts and are pleasantly surprised at the contents of them. Celestia has a new set of shoes for work, comfortable sweaters from her mother, a new romance novel, and a box of exotic teas from their friend Cadence. Luna has gotten a new video game, Breath of the Wild, as well as the Switch and the game Splatoon. A household gift too, but she also got a gift from someone called "M" who sent her a fancy high-tech set of headphones, and also goth Celestia a gift too, a tablet.

Sunset was spoiled, not only did she get the bike and the gear for it, gifts from her new friends, plus having a mother and aunt in her life, but also several pairs of clothing, all fitting her style, a gift card for some tech stuff, and lastly surprisingly, a guitar and microphone, as she looks at this all, as Tia and Luna smile. "I thought you might like the gift card, but the guitar was something I know you wanted." She says as Sunset looks at Tia, and then sets the guitar down, soon hugging her. "Thanks...Mom.' She says, as Celestia is caught off guard, but sighs, and hugs her.

The warmth of another and the joy she feels helps keep the slight coldness of her nightmare away, as soon the trio begins to have a great morning together, as they celebrate inside, together, and soon begin to test out and set up the new console, and enjoy their gifts, and preparing to have a good rest of their Christmas together.

------Back At the Shelter------

The mysterious girl finishes her food and hands it to the volunteer, a grumpy old man, who wishes her a merry Christmas as his wife is cheerfully welcoming folks. She soon walks to her table and sees her stuff there, but also a young teen girl there. "So, you new in town?' The teal-blueish-haired young girl looks at her, and she smirks. "I can help you find a good job down by the shopping mall. Folks spend a lot on late gifts and such." She says as the mysterious girl sighs.

"No, I am fine, thanks though." She says as the odd girl nods. "Alright, though what's your name?" She asks, as the mysterious girl sits down, and thinks. 'Should I...tell my real name? Probably, she seems to be local, and also not someone Father would talk to, so she is the perfect company.' "My name is Catherine Cr-" She stops, and then corrects herself. "Jackson, Catherine Jackson." She says, holding out her hand. The pale-skinned girl nods and shakes her hand.

"Names Vinyl Scratch, and may I ask why an out-of-town gal like you is over here? Judging from the accent, and you being a bit underdressed, I say you are from California." She says as Catherine is shocked she got it right, and sighs.

"O-oh, well I am from there, and I have just been, traveling is all." She says, as Vinyl nods, and asks, "So, why you here then and not a hotel?" She asks as Catherine sighs, "I spent all my money trying to get here, I didn't know the prices for food in the area, and I been walking from the city over to here since a week ago." She says, as Vinyl nods, "Oh, well I also been here a few times, often to help actually, usually we have more folks but many seem to have had a good year, or so I hope. And uh, how did you overlook food costs?" She asks, as Catherine sighs, and looks down.

"I uh, had a very restrictive diet before coming here. I am also, looking for some family in the area-" Vinyl interjects, "So you're a runaway then?" She whispers as Catherine looks down, but nods. "Well, some advice, would be to call your folks here or back home-" Catherine sighs, "No... then Father wins and I go back to that stupid home." She says, mumbling, as Vinyl looks at her, purple-lensed glasses blocking her eyes. "Oh, I see, a runaway from home trouble. Not smart, but also if you made it this far, you got guts."

"Well thanks, though, now I have to find my family here. I never got their numbers or didn't even know they lived here till recently." She says, quietly, as Vinyl smirks. "Well, maybe I can help, we both can go looking together for her, and I know some folks who can help. Also if you gonna be staying a while, you may want better living conditions. I got a place mostly for myself and my own semi-regular roommate, but she goes to her family's home upstate a lot, and we got more room. No cost to you, I make enough to cover most of it." She says, calmly, as Catherine is quite shocked at this offer.

'Can I trust her, I mean, I need a better place to stay, those three girls give me the creeps, and I can't just live here. She could help me, she lives here, knows the city better than me, maybe she knows mom? But, she could know who I am, and that won't be good.' she thinks, and mulls it over before she sighs. "I...think I'll take this offer, though only until I contact my family here, mainly my mother." She says, as Vinyl nods. "Alright, first then, let's get you actual winter clothing and not jeans with those cheap gym sweats and that big hoodie." She says, as Catherine nods, grabbing her stuff, and mumbling, "I packed light."

Vinyl soon guides her out and into the streets, as both begin to do some checking for stores open, and Catherine hopes her choice is good. They soon walk uptown, and Catherine wonders how she will get any clothing herself, before Vinyl instead guides her into a store labeled "The Traveling Collectables" as she follows her inside.

This store is full of items, from clothing to shoes, canned goods, and also antiques, and some more various goods. An odd little shop, feeling cluttered and chaotic yet organized in some way. Vinyl looks at her and speaks, "Alright, grab some clothing, I know the owner, let me tell him you need some good stuff and he'll give it to you, Now washing it all is still advised, but hey, free clothing is free clothing." She says, and walks up to the back of the house, as Catherine sighs, but soon goes around looking.

After almost an hour, she has gotten four nice shirts, three t-shirts, a thick long sleeve sweater, some sweatpants, several more hoodies, and also a winter jacket. She also got a spare pair of boots, and a baseball cap to wear. She walks to the back, to see Vinyl talking to the owner, or hopefully the owner. A dark-haired, average-height man, who oddly has a mask on his face, as he speaks.

"You know if I didn't love your music and your help here, I would make you pay instead." He says as Vinyl chuckles, "Yeah yeah Cole, I know. But hey, if you find that vintage player, I will buy it." He nods, and smiles, as she walks over. "Okay, your all set, now, let's bag them up and head to my place to warm up." She says, as Catherine speaks, "Are you, sure, I really don't-" Vinyl: "Catherine, I am helping you out, so let's go." She says, helping Catherine get everything bagged up and checked off Mr. Cole's list, as he wishes them both a Merry Christmas.

Both soon take a long walk out and to the suburbs, arriving at an average suburbs residence, with Christmas decorations and children playing. The cold nips at Catherine, as Vinyl carries most of the stuff, as both soon arrive at a cozy home, two stories, maybe a basement. It seems so small to Catherine, so quaint. Something she can see her mother living in. Vinyl opens the door for her, as they walk in, take off their wet boots, and Catherine feels the place is a bit warmer.

"Here let me turn the heat up," Vinyl says, helping put things away. The home is well decorated, with posters of musical artists, several DJ PON-3, and classical artists and awards. A large gray sofa compliments a white loveseat, with a large TV, several sets of game consoles, bookcase end tables and a large gray-brown-and black rug leads to the open kitchen, which is very large, along with a small dining area leading to the back deck and what Catherine thinks is a normal backyard.

She sees stairs leading down to a basement, and a set leading upstairs, as the place has decorations, a small Christmas tree set up and oddly smells of dog. Catherine is on edge at this and speaks, "Do you..have a dog?" She asks, Vinyl shakes her head. "No, sorry we had to puppy-sit for Tavi's mother, my roommate, and uh, well sadly due to how often that happens we just got that smell here too.' She says, and looks at Catherine, "you...allergic?"

"No no, just, I don't like dogs." She says as Vinyl chuckles, "Oh the puppies will love you, now, relax, get comfortable, and here." She tosses her a small set of papers, a roommate agreement. "Just reads those and signs when needed, Tavi made them up for us, since I have other roommates come and go. Friends from out of state, and if she asks, you can say your one of them, just lie about being a musician."

Catherine chuckles and speaks, "I am one though, I can sing. But alright...though it says rent here-" Vinyl: "Just know that isn't for you, unless either A, your folks here can't take you in, or B, you want to stay here. Also do know me and Tavi go to school, local high school, and uh, if you want we can help ya get into it if you staying in town." She says as Cath nods.

"I'll think on that, thank you." She says as Vinyl smiles, and Cath sees, that her teeth, specifically the canines, are oddly sharp. "No problem Catherine, I was in a spot like this once before, I know how shitty it is, so I make it my goal to help anyone in similar shit out." She says, and leaves, going upstairs, to probably get laundry so she can wash their clothing. 'No no, I have to wash it, no help here.' she sighs, as she thinks of the others at home who wanted her to get away, and hopes they are enjoying Christmas with their families. She then gets a text on her phone, as she checks it.

It is from Linda, and she sent a kind message. "Merry Christmas Catherine, your father hates this, but I am keeping him from being stupid. I know we never got along, but do know, that I am here for you. Hope you're safe." And then Catherine notices her bank updates, she has access to her money, though it is set to an "Amount Limit" which means only 200 dollars in one purchase, and not over 1,000 in a day. She sighs, but softly smiles, 'If it weren't for you Linda, I would have been worse off.' Catherine sends a thank you text to her stepmother, and looks outside the window, as she sighs.

Soon she and Vinyl begin to discuss roommate stuff, and info on who her mother is, which isn't much as Catherine only has a picture from 12 years ago when she was five, and her note. Vinyl says she knows friends to help, but puts it on hold so Catherine can rest and recover, though Catherine hides her newfound money access from Vinyl for now. Both spend the evening getting to know each other, in the cozy small home, unaware of the crow watching them.

Well, now that was interesting, seems more folks are getting involved. But to see how Catherine related to Sunset, and why she thinks Sunset or Celestia can help her, is unknown. Perhaps we shall learn soon enough dear listener. But for now, relax and be creative, and kind in your days. And know that when you are all ready for a story, I have a story to tell you. Good day, evening, or night to you my listeners, and be kind to one another.

Author's Note

Okay, so finally out of the Six Day period, and now new events can occur. The introduction of a new character might have taken center stage, but showing how Sunset is bonding and having a better time with her new family was not enough for this chapter. Plus it is fitting to find new friends and family on Christmas, and for Sunset this Christmas shall be one to remember for sure.

I hope you all enjoy this chapter, know I will keep to this schedule and also keep the quality of the chapters, either rewrites or new ones I am adding into what I have pre-made, up to decent levels. However from here on, sometimes jumping and summarization will occur, to help carry along the story between long periods of time that may need to be shown.

Also, the Traveling Collectables is an inside joke, as it is my DND Campaign's "Shop of Everything" and Cole Lector, the owner, is a pun name based on Collector. So hope you all like this, and know the Catherine-Vinyl mystery plot will be reoccurring.

Adjusting to a New Life

After a lovely Christmas with her newfound family, Sunset sits at her desk on this fine morning, as she writes down her good and bad dreams, and also looks at her journal, wondering if Twilight is having a good Heart's Warming. She yawns through, as deep down she has become more of a night owl, due to her nightmares. However she does get naps in, but for now, she worries not about her dreams or her Equestrian friend. No, today she goes out with Celestia and Luna to get some groceries, and also to get gift cards to send to her extended family, as Celestia has informed her mother, aunt, and distant cousin about this, along with their friends like Dean Cadence about Celestia adopting Sunset.

Though they want it kept quiet, as some folks they know will not approve of Celestia's actions, as she is unmarried and as Luna put it, "They will find this more of a sign of her never getting married." Sunset sighs, as she leans back in her chair, and checks her laptop for the time. It is only 10:34 am, and they will leave in almost an hour and a half. She is already set to go, and might even try to stop by some places, like the shelter she has stayed at and maybe the Animal Shelter.

As she thinks this over, Sunset notices a text pop up, from AJ, which says, "Hey, Heads up, uh I am gonna be busy, some extended family is coming over for New Year's eve, and so we are gonna be cleaning and preparing. I would invite you, but I won't stress it." Sunset chuckles, and replies, "I would come but Shy already gave me an offer to a party she is being dragged to. I hope we can hang out still though." She sends it, looks at her dream journal, and soon closes it. She checks on her tattoo, and the bright-eyed crow tattoo is still looking well, though her arms do still look a bit, unsightly.

' No, not unsightly, they are showing I am surviving.' She thinks to herself, as she gets up and heads to check on her guardians, and also maybe ask about how to get her into driving lessons so she can try out her motorcycle sooner than later. Sunset soon heads down, and joins her adoptive mother and aunt for breakfast, enjoying a peaceful morning before the busy afternoon.

--------Meanwhile with Catherine--------

Catherine wakes in her simple room, as she is confused before recalling yesterday's events. She and Vinyl met up and she chose to stay with her as she looked for her mother, a task that seems much harder than she first thought. Her mother had not given much for Catherine to work with, besides the city, and she is expecting her. However, due to reasons, Catherine can understand, no phone numbers, addresses, or locations were mentioned in the note. She recalls her mother's name and thinks to start looking through sites with Vinyl's laptop for Chelsey's in the area, and if any of them have moved here roughly 10 years ago or so.

However, first comes her daily chores of self-care, and thus she gets up and uses the much nicer shower in her small but cozy guest room, to get ready for the day. After a long, comfortable shower and changing into some of her new clothing, she exits her bathroom to her room, and sighs. She cleans up herself, gathering feathers, a ruined pillowcase, and her old clothing. She tosses the feathers away, along with the ripped-up cloth, and puts her laundry in the hamper. She then leaves her room and walks down the stairs, arriving to see Vinyl, still at her desk, headphones on but glasses off. Her dark red eyes scan over a dim computer screen before they dart up to stare at Catherine, before Vinyl speaks, "Oh...hey Catherine. You slept in."

"Yeah, so uh, whatcha doing?" She asks, walking to the kitchen to get something to drink, as Vinyl speaks, "Oh just some research for you, uh...and I got good and bad news." Catherine sighs, as she grabs some orange juice, and pours herself a glass, as she puts it back and walks over. "What's the good news?" Catherine questions, not liking how Vinyl has a nervous expression.

"I got in contact with my friend, and he got me a list of folks from 10 years ago who moved here, till around 5 years ago. All older women, roughly around how old you think your mom should be." Catherine nods, drinking some juice before sitting down, preparing for the bad part.

"That is good, what's the bad news then?" She asks as she sits forward, avoiding pressing her back into the sofa. Vinyl awkwardly chuckles, and shows her the list, of over 100 women who are named Chelsey or formerly had the name of Chelsey, of the right age range, and moved here within the right time. Catherine stares in disbelief, before groaning, and looking down. ' Why the fuck does nothing ever go my way?' she thinks to herself, as Vinyl chimes in, "On the bright side, we can maybe narrow it down more, though my contacts can't help us any further. I would suggest the cop-"

"No cops, I don't trust them." Catherine states, as she sighs, 'Especially since Father has so many working for him.' she sighs, and Vinyl nods, before responding, "I mean I get sometimes cops are bad, but maybe I know one who can help us. He's actually a friend of mine dad. Or we could maybe try to get help from a Private Detective or maybe someone from Tavi's fam can help us. I mean it's a shot in the dark if they could since it's the holidays, but maybe."

Catherine looks at Vinyl, and can tell, she means well and wants to help. However Catherine feels stressed and mentally exhausted from her getaway and flight here, as well as being so foolish and even with Linda's aid, she can't really trust that her money or living situation is stable. 'Anything beats that prison.' She reminds herself, as she sighs. "Vinyl, we can worry about this later, I think I need a mental day off from this, and maybe wait for a bit, so I can actually afford any help. Do recall I am broke and need a job to pay for a Private Detective or anything. Also if my mother lives in the city, as I am working she will find me. After all, I am not very hard to miss." She says gesturing to her appearance, and her unique eyes and accent. She hopes her mother would recognize her, even after so long apart.

Vinyl nods, smirking as she looks at Catherine. "No your not, though no offense, but you gotta get something with your hair if you want to hide from folks." Vinyl suggests as Catherine nods, as she hasn't really thought about hiding from Father if he came looking. ' It would be good to hide from him, even if it means mom won't instantly recognize me. Will also lessen the chance press will notice me too." Catherine thinks, and then nods.

"Yeah, I think I will, you know a place? Though uh, wouldn't that hinder me from being found by my mother?" She states as Vinyl nods, "Yeah, though if your mom ran all the way here from Cali, and so did you, I can only think of what is going on. So, maybe hiding is good, plus I think your mother could spot you easily. My mom always says she will recognize me even if I got green hair and became a hippie." She jokes as Catherine chuckles a bit, sighing as the two sit and share some chuckles.

"I will believe that though...why..do you want to help me?" She asks, as Vinyl sighs, and looks at her. Vinyl looks to debate the topic of answering, before closing her laptop and adjusting in her seat to look at Catherine better. Vinyl seems, very uneasy, cautious even in her body language. She sort of prepares for a bad reaction yet, keeps her face calm and not changing expression, as she picks how she explains this carefully.

"Well, the honest answer is, because I ran away from my folks two years ago, due to a nasty dispute I had with my Mother. She and I don't see eye to eye on a lot of things...mainly uh, my career path and...sexuality." She says, and Catherine looks shocked but slowly nods. Vinyl signs, and leans back against the sofa. "She wants me to become a CEO-type lady, I mean I am smart, good with dealing with folk and such, but my talent is music making and partying. Literally, I make nearly 2 grand from some of the gigs I played, and my music sales and popularity are climbing. And I am still in school, without a label or any help, and improving my skills and music catalog. My dad gets me, he always does, minus who I like. They both are old-school in a way, they're not religious, but they don't get why I want to be with a girl and not a guy. My mother says it would be a scandal, my dad just really wants grandkids one day, though saying I'll adopt helps him sort of accept it. He's just trying to understand, but also struggles." She sighs, and looks up at the ceiling, as Catherine processes this.

Catherine thinks, Sounds like me and my family, except it seems she had a better life and an actual dad. And she is into girls, wait is that why she is nice to me? No no, she probably can tell I am not into girls, am I? Father never did like me learning sex ed or talking about dating anyone. Wonder what Mom would do if I asked her. Questions for later.' She sighs, and decides to shelf such questions for later. "I can see the similarities, to some extent, though you seem to be on better terms?"

Vinyl sighs, "Sort of, uh, see me living on my own helps them teach me responsibility and try out being an adult early on, before college, and see if this is who I am. And...the uh..roommate part is sort of a...white lie. Tavi is my girlfriend, and we keep it hush-hush. So uh, don't tell anyone." She says as she looks at Catherine.

Catherine blinks and sighs in relief, "Ah I see, well that is fine, I can keep a secret, though I will say that my father is a controlling individual, and not very kind. I only made it out this far thanks to my stepmother, my actual mother sending me the tickets and such, and my butler helping me escape. I don't think me and my father will ever see eye to eye, he is a big dreamer and idea person, I just want a simple life." She says as she keeps leaning forward, and Vinyl nods.

Vinyl nods, and then gently puts her hand on Catherine's shoulder, "Well maybe that is for the better, perhaps this will all pass, he will get over whatever happened to make you run away, and you and your birth mom can live here happy. Once we find her that is. I gotta say it is very shady of her to hide from you, or it just shows how dangerous...well your father is. If he is dangerous I am just making some leaps in logic."

Catherine sighs and gives a small smile, as she leans back, slowly and gets comfortable, though this bothers her a lot. The soft tingly feeling returns as she lays back against the sofa and sighs. "He is dangerous, but he is loving. Just also has a lot of responsibility and stress. Though locking me in our home for seven years was a horrible time. Until I went back to public schooling for a bit, before recently, and came out here. And uh, how did you and your mother get back on good terms?"

Vinyl nods, and speaks, "Well, that is a long story for another time, and to your father being dangerous, nothing to fear, Tavi's parents would probably either sue him or have him somehow legally sent to prison if he comes to mess with you and thus messes with me. They are, no pushovers. But, we can talk more later, if we wanna eat, we gotta cook."

Catherine gives her an odd look, as Vinyl sighs, "Never cooked before?" Catherine shakes her head and wonders if she touched a nerve with Vinyl, or was being too open. "Ah well, here let me help you get to know the basics," Vinyl says, as Catherine nods, and gets up, as both begin to cook and let their knowledge gained of each other sit in their minds.

--------Back With Sunset--------

Sunset and her family have driven out to the city to go shopping, as they walk around the open mall area, which has many holiday deals and events going on for New Year's Eve. They so far have gotten a few things, mainly the gift cards and some better dress shoes for the Party, as Celestia and Luna both got invited to the party Shy is going to, via her mother sending them texts after some planning from Shy and Sunset. Now they are going to the smaller stores here for some small items to send with the cards to the extended family, along with visiting the animal shelter to see Shy, who is for sure working as Sunset got confirmation via text.

It is sort of awkward to be out in public with her principal and vice principal, as many students give them odd looks and she has seen Mr. Cranky give them a nod. Sunset sighs, as she remembers she wants to check in on the Shelter here in town, just to make sure they don't need help. ' They helped me out in tough times, so maybe I should do so too.' She thinks before she runs into someone, and they both fall down.

"Ugh, sorry I wasn't-wait Sunset?" Says a familiar voice, of Flash Sentry, as Sunset looks at him, as she gets up. Celestia and Luna look back, and notice this, as Sunset speaks. "Uh...h-hey Flash." She looks around, slowly getting up, as she sighs, "So, how-" Suddenly she is hugged, and Flash sighs before he lets her go, and speaks, "....It is..good to see you okay. C-can we talk?" He asks, as Celestia and Luna approach, and Sunset panics, not sure what to do, as she really didn't want to run into Flash.

"Are you both alright?" Celestia asks as Flash looks at her. "Oh, Principle Celestia, I am sorry were you-" Sunset sighs, and speaks, "We are fine, though we have to go-" Celestia chimes in and speaks. "Wait, let's take a moment, and go perhaps have a snack and talk. Is your mother or father here?'

"No, I am out on my own, just walking. My folks are busy setting up the house and I got nothing else to do." Celestia nods, and Sunset sighs, realizing why she wants them to all talk. ' Because we dated.' She sighs, as soon Celestia and Flash agree to snacks, as Luna checks on Sunset.

"I can tell this bothers you." Sunset sighs, "Yes it does, though I guess now is better than at school." She says, and Luna nods, "Agreed, more controlled and a safer environment. Don't worry, we'll be here to help keep things civil." She says, as they headed to a small coffee shop for snacks, warmth, and to have this dreaded discussion.

They enter and order their drinks of tea and hot cocoa, and some muffins or scones. They then decide, due to Flash noticing how Sunset loons uneasy about this, to perhaps do this conversation someplace more private. This is found via a small workspace room in the coffee shop, for folks to have meetings in. They all sit inside, with Flash and Sunset across from each other.

Flash sighs, and looks at Sunset, oddly checking her arms, as she keeps her long sleeve sweater rolled up. "So uh, my folks got the email about what happened, and I just want to know if you're okay Sunset." He states as Sunset looks at him, and replies, "Yeah I am fine." She says, sounding a bit harsh, as he sighs.

"So, uh you, got some new clothing and a good jacket, which is nice. Though uh, do you have my old one?" Sunset looks at him, and smirks, "Yeah I do, why want it back?" Flash chuckles, and shakes his head, "No, it's yours now." He says, as both chuckle, and sigh. A tension is between them as Luna and Celestia keep quiet and let them bring whatever it is up naturally.

Soon after a minute, Flash looks at Sunset, and speaks, "Sunset how, how long have you been..." He stops, unsure how to explain it, but Sunset sighs, "Before you, and I, really hope you don't ask about why. That can be for ano-" Flash chimes in, "You came from Equestria like Twilight." He says as Sunset blinks, and he chuckles, "She talked a lot about it before she left, also uh..weird being into two Magical girls from other worlds." He says as Sunset blinks, before chuckling.

"I mean you do have either a thing for crazy or for the nerdy girl." Flash looks at her, and speaks, "You were never crazy, though you being a nerd was very cute." Sunset blushes, and speaks, "well true, though uh, I will...say I am sorry for dumping you. Especially since I made it hell to date me."

"Sunset, at the time I was made and angry, but now I am over it. I am just worried about you, as I do still feel like we're friends still. Even after everything, and especially now your old wannabe friends tossed you-" Sunset looks at him coldly, and speaks, "Flash me and the girls made up somewhat." He stops and blinks.

"Oh, I see, sorry. I didn't know, and hey that is great, maybe this time they will listen to you." He says, as She nods, and eats her muffin, and he looks at her arms. He then speaks up suddenly, "You got a tattoo?" Celestia and Luna watch, as Sunset nods, and sighs. She rolls up her right sleeve, showing her tattoo, and her scars. "Y-yeah...part of my therapy, self-improvement and thinking better of myself. It helps, though gotta wait for some weeks between tattoos." She explains as Flash looks at her wounds, and he seems like he wants to reach over, but stops.

"I...see. It is very pretty. Though why a raven?" Sunset chuckles and rolls her sleeve back up. "It's a crow, and because it is symbolic of the person who helped me, and well saved my life." She informs Flash, as both eat some of their muffins and relax, before Flash gives Sunset a warm smile, and speaks. "Sunset I am happy you are still around and know I got your back alright?" He says, with such, honesty and with a genuine smile, that Sunset recalls why she dated him.

'Flash you are too damn nice.' She thinks, and then smiles back. "I got it, and thanks. I'll try to keep an eye out for you too, in case more magic gals jump over and might be single." She says, teasing him as Flash chuckles. "Sure, though I'll make sure to return the favor." He says, as both soon begin to chat casually, as they used to, as Celestia and Luna seem happy they have rekindled their friendship.

After about half an hour of talking about new gifts, Sunset's motorcycle, and Flash offering to help her learn to drive, the two soon part, this time with a side hug and arm-bumps, as flash heads to a music store, and Celestia and Luna watch him go with Sunset. Celestia smirks, and Luna speaks, "A very nice young man."

"Yeah, he is, though I blew my chances with him," Sunset says, knowing that is mainly for herself, as while she wants to be friends with Flash since they both have gotten over their past issues, she knows Twilight likes him and wants to not take him from her. Celestia nods, and speaks, "Indeed, though having guy friends is good, helps you out a lot, and you two are close, like you and AJ."

"Yeah, known them both the longest." Sunset informs before Luna speaks, "Yes, though we do have to get home to make dinner, so let's get back to shopping." She says, sounding, a bit jealous, or maybe, sad. Sunset wonders why but Celestia nods. "Yes, let's go, and I am glad someone has your back at School Sunset when Luna and I can't."

Sunset nods, and hums, 'Yeah, it is good he has my back, though if that backfires on him, is the question. She worries, as they continue on shopping, passing by a blonde lady in nice winter clothing, who nods to them and goes into the coffee shop. They all soon head off to the Animal Shelter, as Sunset smiles, happy to check on her friend and hopeful about returning to school, with one major hurdle passed for now.

Well, Sunset has rekindled an old friendship, and our newcomer Catherine seems to be getting along well with Vinyl, though both seem still out of their element and unsure of the future. Though why Catherine wanted Sunset's help, and if she will get it, is still unknown. Well, we will see later my dear listener, and I hope you enjoyed this chapter of the tale. Know I am here to tell my story whenever you are wanting, so come sit down and enjoy. Good day, evening, or night to you my listeners, and be kind to one another.

Author's Note

The next chapter is out, and I am so far keeping up now. I am working on my old story arcs, involving a subplot, though trying to balance it and the main plot is a lot of going back to my planning doc and reviewing chapters to correct myself. If you all have problems don't be scared to tell me how I can fix them. Mainly in handling B-plot exposition or grammar/word usage. I might have jumped the gun, though that could be me retrofitting old chapters and adding in new ones, so I am trying to keep the narrative connected.

Or I am overthinking and stressing over nothing and these chapters are some of my better ones. Longer sure, but also more dynamic. Hopefully, you all like them too. Also do know, that Flash in this is just a cool kind dude and friend. And Vinyl is the gay chill gal you can just hang with.

Flutters of the Heart

Sunset and her family soon arrive at the shelter, as they see many folks coming in to adopt some pets for themselves or adopt ones in need. Sunset smiles as many pets are here, mainly dogs, cats, and some parrots or birds. Attached to the shelter is a pet store, so other animals are up for sale, and all the needed supplies for caring for and raising a pet. The place is warm, and cozy, even with the smell of the animals and pet food present in the building.

And at the heart of it, is Fluttershy, even with Christmas, is here volunteering. She wears her usual yellow sweater, with her shelter vest, and her hair done up as she talks to a young girl about how to help raise her dog, as her mother and father are also excited for the puppy to join their family. Celestia and Luna look around, as Sunset notices a black cat in one of the cozy cages off to the side, as the cat looks at her. Shy notices them and smiles but also is busy so can't talk right now.

Sunset sighs, as she speaks, ' God, she really is great. Why did I hurt her so badly before?' she thinks and sighs. She hides her expression, though is sad as she recalls the times she bullied Shy, hurt her, and made fun of her. All because Shy is, is... What even was it? Shy being an easy target? Too kind or not going to stand up for herself, or was it something else? Sunset mentally grumbles as a voice speaks, "It's because she is pure, and that purity is what we lost."

Sunset shakes her inner voice away, as she idle walks over to Celestia, and looks at the cats with her. Celestia looks at her, "You alright Sunset?" She worries, as Sunset sighs. "Yeah just, had a moment, I think, anxiety? Not sure," she says, as the black cat meows, and walks over. "but maybe some chatting can help me calm down." She finishes, as Celestia nods, and rubs her back gently. "I see, well, maybe we can ask to meet a cat, this one is cute." She nods, as the black cat's bio sheet says their 1-year-old, is called Omega and has been here for a bit.

Sunset looks at the cat, and sighs, "Omega is an odd name." Celestia nods, "Yes it is, but so is mine and yours. Now, hiya little gal, how are you?" She asks, as the black cat meows and reaches out, as Celestia walks a bit closer, and begins to talk to the cat. Sunset chuckles a bit, as she looks over, Luna is actually talking to a younger lady, about her dog who seems to adore Luna, as it lays by her and looks happy.

Sunset sees Shy finishing up with the family and sends them to get their paperwork finalized, as she comes over. "H-Hey Sunset, you uh, came here for something?" She asks, nervously, as Sunset feels her heart hurt from it, as Shy tries to keep eye contact, but also seems too nervous to do so.

Sunset sighs and speaks. "No just came to check on you, and also see when you get off work, so we can discuss the New Year's Party, and uh...I have something to tell you in private." She says, as Shy nods, and Celestia adores the little black cat, as Shy giggles. "Alright, I get off at 5 o'clock, though my dad and brother are out till 10, so it is just me and my mom tonight though we can still talk, uh, my place? Or...at Principle Celestia's home?" She asks, knowing Sunset's living arrangements, as all the girls got that information a while ago.

Sunset thinks, "Not sure, we can probably talk about it later." She says as Celestia speaks to them both. "Hello Fluttershy, sorry I was intrigued by Omega here." She says, as Omega meows, Shy giggles, and Sunset feels both pain and joy from it and is somewhat confused about why. "Oh that is fine, she's a little angel. Though, no one wants her due to superstition. I-I would but we have Angel at home, and I am scared she would go after him."

She says this, and Celestia nods, before looking up and seeing Luna and the lady, and sighing. "I understand that some people don't see things for what they are, and only for what they are told. A black cat isn't bad luck, especially this little girl." She says, putting a hand on the cage, as Omega attempts to nuzzle her hand. Sunset smirks reminded her of how the Princess had kittens, dogs, and even other more dangerous animals simply be calm and cute around her.

Shy smiles, and speaks, "Well, hopefully, someone sees her like that and adopts her." Celestia nods, though looks to be thinking something over, as she looks over the biography for Omega. Sunset then smirks, as she can tell she is debating something, like her old Teacher, her new mother does the same lip bite and inquisitive staring, a trait both seem to share.

"Well, maybe she is lucky today." Sunset says as she looks at Shy, "I uh, saw Flash a few minutes ago, and had a talk with him." Shy looks at her, and then looks, sad. No Worried? It is hard to tell. "Oh, so, you two are-" Sunset puts up a hand, and then adds, "We're just friends now, he has the hots for Twilight, and we're cool. He is also gonna give me driving lessons." She says, smiling, as Shy nods.

"That is great, well try to get an affordable car, and if you need extra help or a buddy I can help." She says, softly, smiling a bit, as Sunset can't help but smile back. Celestia soon looks at them both, and speaks, "Excuse me." She says, walking by to Luna, as the lady and Luna both watch her come over, and then the lady gives Luna something and heads to check out with her pet food. Shy and Sunset watch this, as Shy beams.

"She is gonna adopt you." She says to Omega, who meows, and Shy walks over and pets her with a finger through the cage door, as Sunset looks on, ignoring the feeling of guilt over what she did to shy, and focusing on her smile. She then walks over and puts a hand on Shy's shoulder. "I do have something I want to show you later, I got something big for Christmas." She says, as Shy nods, hiding her shocked look at Sunset's contact, as both have an awkward moment of silence, before Omega meows.

Shy smiles and keeps petting her, as Celestia and Luna walk over. Luna looks at the cat and smiles softly, adoring the little one. "Oh so precious, a little gal. I think your right, she'll fit in right at home." Celestia nods, as Sunset smiles. "So I take it we're adopting her." Celestia: "I am, though we'll need everything for her, well we have old liter boxes and food bowls in the basement in storage since we had cats, but after Mr. Mittens and Vixen died of old age 10 years ago we haven't had any."

"Yes, though I been wanting to get one again, or a dog, any furred friend to help give some warmth to the old home." She says, calmly, as Luna reaches out, and oddly, Omega purrs instantly from her touch, as Luna chuckles. "Awe, so cute, She's purring..though Omega isn't a fitting name for her."

"Well maybe you should name her Luna, after all, you both are similar." She says, chuckling, as Luna glares at her sister. "Is it because I am cat-like in nature, small, or because of that joke?" She asks as Celestia rubs her neck. "Mainly the first two." She teases, as both have a look at each other before they chuckle. Sunset chuckles too, as Shy giggles softly.

They all stop soon, and Shy speaks up, 'Well, let me open the cage so you can hold her, and I'll get the paperwork." She says, opening the cage, picking up Omega, and handing her to Luna, and Omega just looks, so comfortable in her arms. Surprisingly she doesn't fuss or seem angry, and is one chill young cat. Shy leaves to go get paperwork, as Sunset watches her go, and Luna looks at this. Celestia soon goes shopping for cat litter, and food. She acquires some help from another worker, a young man, to help her become reacquainted with cat caring. He is at first nervous as he doesn't think they could handle it, but she explains why they wish to pick her out, and he soon begins to help her more willingly.

As Sunset and Luna stand there petting Omega, the cat yawns, and rolls over, before getting belly rubs. "Sunset, you and Shy are on good terms right?" Luna asks, Sunset looks up, confused, as Luna sees this. "I only ask since you both seem a bit awkward, which is understandable considering your past experiences with each other."

"Yeah, I..it's sort of awkward," Sunset admits, quietly. "I just really want to make things up to her, due to everything before. I...don't really recall why I just picked her out to be so mean to." She softly adds as she stops petting Omega, as Omega looks at her, with those intelligent blue eyes. Luna nods and thinks over what Sunset said.

"I think, maybe you did it because she made you question something. Perhaps she made you recall a part of yourself you lost. I was like that to someone once, blamed them, and hurt them badly due to my own pain." She says as she gives Sunset a gentle smile. "So try your best to make it up to her, I do recall you mentioning giving her a ride on the motorcycle." She says as Sunset nods, smiling as she like the idea of them together, driving around free. Though it reminds her of when Flash drove her around in his car, that sense of freedom.

She wonders though how he could drive so young, as well as Shy being able to drive early too. Though her thoughts are broken when Luna speaks, "Also I will say you should do the same with others you bullied, and try not to let them only know you as who you were, but who you are now." She says, as Sunset nods, and thinks about this. 'Who I am now, I am, someone finding her place in this world still. But I am getting there.' She ponders, and both soon have Shy return to them with the paperwork.

"Alright, I have it here, let's go get it filled out." She says, as both walk after her, Celestia soon comes back with some stuff, and thanks the man for helping her. They all soon sit down in a room, as Shy brings in a proper shelter worker, and they discuss the adoption process, health concerns, and other concerns with Omega, as also her history and records.

Overall Sunset finds this odd, as Omega has no problems, no illnesses, or injuries, besides being small and a bit underloved and unable to eat hard food, she is healthy. Too healthy, for her being a stray from the streets, which is verified and how they found her. Omega also seems to use to people for being so young, though that is overlooked as the shelter wants her to find a home, as most folks are superstitious or not interested in such a young kitten. Sunset hums, as this is odd, though might just be luck on their side.

The adoption is handled, and soon they have Omega, but Luna soon looks at her and speaks up. "I think, Salem fits you better." She says, as Omega perks up and seems, happy at the name. Shy giggles, as she grabs a travel cage and some soft food, as well as some treats. "Now, I think later I may have to come over to check on little Salem." She says as Celestia nods, "Oh yes, and we can talk about the party. Just you or-" She and Celestia discuss the plans for later, as Luna holds Omega, now Salem, as Sunset chuckles.

Soon little Salem is in their car, as they prepare to head home, to not only have Salem get used to the place slowly but also to prepare for having Fluttershy and Mrs. Shy over for dinner and to discuss the party. Thus they have cleaning and preparation to do, as Sunset sits in the back with Salem, who is meowing a lot, as they drive along. "I am surprised no one else adopted Salem before." She says as Celestia nods.

Sunset finds it odd but is happily enjoying the cat in the carrier chilling beside her, as petting her helps keep Salem calm in the car. After the long drive, they get home and begin bringing in Salem and the important stuff, then the food and drinks. Salem is let free in the safest room of the large home, the bathroom, as they have to prepare the litter box and such downstairs and also get her some food and water.

This all takes an hour, and soon Salem is set up in the bathroom, as Luna tackles cat preparations, Sunset tackles cleaning up, and Celestia tackles meal preparations. They all do their part and help each other when able, which dinner being a large salad, hamburger and ground squash burgers, and some new foods she wants to try, as Sunset and Shy are both vegetarians. or are somewhat, Sunset has been thinking of eating meats again, after the Horse Meat scare she had 2 years ago.

Soon they are prepared, and Sunset stands in the bathroom, looking at herself in the mirror, as she sighs. "It's just a meeting with her and her mom, hopefully, nothing weird happens." She says to herself, and to Salem. Salem meows and Sunset smiles. "Yeah, I know nothing will happen, cause your our good luck cat." She hopes as Salem purrs, as Sunset picks her up, and heads out to the living room to wait.

Soon, the Shys arrive, as Fluttershy and Mrs. Shy are dressed warmly, and Sunset helps them come in, having Salem be in a small makeshift play area, so she doesn't get lost or stuck in the large home. Mrs. Shy looks at Sunset a bit hesitant about her helping Shy, as Sunset hangs up Shy's coat and then looks at her. "May I take your coat?" Sunset asks, as Mrs. Shy nods, and hands it to her.

Celestia, Luna, and Mrs. Shy soon greet each other and begin to ask how their vacation has been, and how her work is treating her, as she has no days off besides Christmas Eve, Day, and the week between that and New Year's Eve, with New Year's Eve and two days after it. Shy sits by Sunset in the living room as they both have Salem with them.

"Big home, really big." Sunset chuckles, and nods. "Yeah, it is pretty big, though it is also quite nice. I can show you my room in a bit. Can't bring Salem in it though, too many cords and things she could get into." Sunset says, as Shy nods, petting Salem, who purrs happily. "We can go up in a bit, so, what did you want to show me? Your gift?" Sunset smirks, and soon stands up. "I'll show you in a bit." She says as both enjoy petting Salem.

Sunset mentally is happy Shy is here, calm and not nervous, and looking very cozy in her sweater. She and Shy sit like this for a bit, before they soon put Salem in the little play area, and head up to Sunset's room. Sunset holds her hand and speaks. "Okay, this is part one of my gifts." She says, opening the door, to show her jacket, helmet, new boots, her computer, headphones, and the other small stuff.

Shy is impressed and confused. "This, is really cool, but why do you need a helmet and leather jacket? You don't own a bike." She says as Sunset smirks, and shy gives her an odd look before the realization hits her face. "No way...who got you one?" She asks as Sunset smiles, pulling Sunset inside her room. "Xavier did, I think this is his last gift to me before he goes on his way. A big gift too, and also I...want to tell you something even bigger than all of this." She beams, as Shy nods, as Sunset sits down on her bed, and Shy follows.

"So what is it?" She asks, a bit nervous, as they sit so close. "Okay, so...You know I am living here now, well, Celestia adopted me, and, now I am under their care as Celestia's adopted child and Luna's adoptive niece. And the rest of the family knows or will be told soon." She says, as Shy gasps, before hugging Sunset and speaking. "That is great, you have a home and family here. T-thought uh." She stops, and lets go, as Sunset couldn't even hug back. "w-what about your family back..in Equestrian?" She asks, as Sunset blinks, and sighs.

"Oh...well uh, my folks died when I was young. The only family I have there would be my aunt, I think, and the Princess, but...both those bridges I...burned before I came here." She sighs, as Shy looks down. "S-sorry I shouldn't have asked." She says as Sunset smirks, a half-hearted smirk. "No worries Shy, you're fine. Now, uh, tell me how was your Christmas?" She asks, as Shy slowly talks about it, realizing Sunset wants a distraction from bad memories. Sunset happily listens to Shy talk and talk, becomes more open and emotional, and is also sassy about her lazy brother.

Soon they both get called down for dinner, and chuckle, as they head down and join the three adults for the meal, and also feed Salem some wet food and notice how she hasn't used the small litter box they got for her yet. Soon they begin to eat, after washing up. They all chat over the meal about how the Party will go. Sunset pays attention and retells what Mrs. Shy says to herself. ' It starts at 8 o'clock, in formal attire, at the Canterlot Party Hall, and many of Mrs. Shy's bosses and colleagues will be there. Sounds invite-only, but friends and guests are welcome. She mentioned no silver which either means A; they know about the existence of creatures like lycans and fae and want no problems, or B they have lycans and fae among them and don't want to stand out. Also, all young teens will have access to a soda bar, snacks, movies, and a game room area, with little kids in a separate room. I can see why Dash wouldn't go, being in a dress till tomorrow early morning is gonna suck.' She thinks, as they all eat up, enjoying the meal.

"Wait, can I wear a suit?' Luna asks Mrs. Shy, who blinks, "Oh, do you not own a dress?" Luna looks at her, and sighs, "No, for two reasons, the first being my first-ever dress was ruined by my first-time boyfriend, and I have preferred suit tops, their more comfortable. Also, It has a skirt with pockets." She says as Celestia chuckles, and Mrs. Shy smiles. "Then, of course, you can wear it. No problems with folks wearing what they wish, so long as it isn't Mrs. Chrysalis and her black dress incident."

"Wait Officer Chrysalis?' Celestia asks, as Sunset mentally chuckles over this info. Chrysalis, the Queen of Changeling and Menace to society, is a police officer. She heard of her from Princess Celestia, who had a deep resentment toward her, for some reason. Mrs. Shy talks of the incident, something to do with a deep V-neck dress and too much being shown. Sunset thinks about how she likes her dresses, but also would want to try a suit maybe. The image of her in a suit dancing with Fluttershy comes to mind.

' I owe a dance for making her date to the Fall Formal dump her mid-night.' She sighs, and then speaks up, "Well maybe she'll wear a suit or suit dress this time, and I may try a suit. See how it fits, and also more pockets." She says as the girls all chuckle, and Celestia nods, as they all begin making talk about what to wear, and then on to over matters, mainly light topics and stuff that makes Sunset feel calm and relaxed, listening to them all.

The night goes on for a good while, with Sunset showing off her motorcycle to Mrs. Shy and Fluttershy, as both are concerned but are informed Sunset will learn first before she tries to ride it. They all also play some games on the switch, and Shy reveals she is a huge Zelda nerd, as Mrs. Shy is told by Celestia about the adoption, and both soon talk parenting tips, as Celestia is worried about Sunset. Sunset chills with Salem as She, Luna, and Shy game, before it gets late, and the two Shys must leave. After goodbyes, numbers exchanged, and Shy smiling at Sunset, the evening of activity comes down to a calm standstill, as Sunset realizes how she feels, very weird right now. She is already missing shy, yet is unsure why.

'Can worry about that later, now, it is time to relax.' She thinks to herself, as the family winds down, and begins their late evening activities. Luna chatting with her group online, Celestia goes to read her book of the night with Salem, and Sunset is in her room, vibing to music as she writes stuff in her journal, updating Twilight on what happened, and current events. She soon goes to lie on her bed, and read her books from AJ, as she had a good day today.

"I wonder what tomorrow will bring.' She thinks and smirks, as she reads some more, before turning in and going to bed.

Ah, a lovely chapter that was. Salem joins the Faust-Shimmer family, and it seems Mrs. Shy is cautious of Sunset. Though another heart-to-heart and Shy learning of Sunset's adoption was just adorable to me. Now, we'll see how things go and lead up to New Year's Eve, oh that party does sound fun. But, for now, be good my dear listeners, and remember, to be kind to one another. Good Day or Evening to you, my gentlefolk.

Author's Note

And this is a new chapter, mainly because I didn't have a clear connection between the two edited chapters before, and the next one. So note, that the next chapter is gonna be about Catherine, and some more events on her end. To help lead into the next part of the story. I write this the same week as editing the other chapters, so trying to keep things smooth and make sense here.

I hope you all enjoy it, please point out issues or mistakes I left, though I should catch most grammar and structural mistakes before this gets released.

And next up, is a Catherine Chapter, then a Session with Dr. Wolf.

Making New Friends (Catherine-Centric Chapter)

The two girls look at the food they made, or tried to, with mixed reactions. For one, Catherine is naturally good with guessing how to make waffles and following the instructions, as delicious golden brown ones sit there. Vinyl is good at making some sausage patties and chopping them up with eggs for a nice scrambled egg and sausage. However. both look at each other, confused, as they somehow burned their fruit smoothies. Black ichor sits in the blender, both not daring to touch it.

"I...think this is an accomplishment in all the worst ways," Catherine speaks, taking a picture with her phone, as Vinyl nods. "Yeah, I uh, what did you put in it?" She asks as Catherine shrugs. "I put milk, some banana slices, and a bit of sugar." Vinyl nods and looks at it. "Well I added strawberries and some protein powder, so either A, this was a freak accident, or B, we tried to make a smoothie of the gods and it broke." She says, as Catherine blinks, before chuckling softly.

Soon they safely dump the tar out, and get the blender soaking, as they both have milk instead. Vinyl looks a bit impressed, as Catherine wolfs down some waffles, savoring the bites though looking hungry, as she also has a lot of food on her plate. Catherine looks up, mouth full of food, as she chews, and swallows it. "Uh...sorry, it is really good." She says, as Vinyl chuckles.

"No problem, dig in, we made plenty, maybe a bit too much, though what do you want to do then, if we have today as a rest day for you? Cause I got nothing to do, no gigs till New Year's Eve." She says as Catherine perks up. "Oh? I thought you and your girlfriend would, you know, be smooching or whatever." Catherine says as Vinyl smirks.

"Oh we will, I am just gonna be working too. I am to play some of my more mellow background music for a big party her folks are having. We plan to tell them after, about us, after we test the waters. She invited our two close friends, Lyra and Bon Bon over too." She explains as Catherine looks intrigued, judging by Vinyl's smirk. "Oh her dad works with the Walker Foundation. They help a lot of special folks out, from the disabled, blind, and autistic, to those seeking help from drug addiction and especially mental health. They work with Canterlot Hospital, several orphanages, mental centers, a drug rehab place, and also now going into homeless shelters."

Catherine nods and recalls these folks. Her father hates them due to their policies over topics he finds, sinful. She doesn't recall what they are but knows he says they're evil. "I heard of them, my father doesn't like them, he's very religious and dislikes their policies. On what I never got to know." She says as Vinyl scoffs. "Him and every white male against so many things." She sighs, as she looks at Catherine. "Trust me, Catherine, you will learn what you support and what you don't, and as long as you know your boundaries and keep them how you want, hopefully, others won't cross them, and if so, help correct it calmly." She says, as Catherine nods, and thinks on this.

"Alright, though I must say I don't want some of my boundaries crossed." She says, as Vinyl nods, "I respect that, and if I bump one or two tell me. But most folks are also insensitive dicks so be ready for that." She says as Catherine nods, but sighs. "I hope you are wrong, but you know more than I on this topic. Now, uh, you will be busy then, and you go to school, and I should too?" She asks, thinking over her plans, not resting as her mind is stressed still over other things, such as money for food, being in trouble for not being in school, and standing out. "Though if anyone saw them I would be really in the limelight.'

Vinyl shrugs, "I mean you can enroll in the spring, might be a bit weird but I can help you get caught up. Also if you are concerned about money, getting a part-time job is useful. I know a few places are gonna be hiring. Though, uh, how strong are you?" She asks as Catherine thinks, recalling she had a private gym at home, as one of the few things she liked was working out. "Well, I am not sure, last time I worked out I could do lifts around 200 pounds, though that is my best guess." She calmly says.

Vinyl blinks, and speaks, "You what now?" She asks, confused and unsure if she heard her right. Catherine sighs, "I can lift around 200 pounds, I can also do long endurance running and such. When I was 10 or so I was bored and didn't like being a chubby baby. By 12 I was allowed access to our home's gym as a "gift" from my father, mainly some he can delay me going to school and stay at home. So since I was 12 I worked out little by little. I mean...I am not built. My uh, body has a high metabolism, as my stepmother told me. Hence me eating a lot." She explains, as Vinyl nods, and gives her an odd look.

"Okay, oddly similar to Octavia, but also I am not surprised. I do wonder if you could help me be support for my gigs. Like carrying the gear, moving stuff, and maybe even keeping folks away. Do you know self-defense?' She asks as Catherine blinks. "No, I do not, though I am a quick learner, apparently if I can learn to cook this good on my first try, how hard can self-defense be?" She says, with her usual drive to anything she can do, which is going for it, and if you fail, try harder.

Vinyl nods, and smirks, "I think we can work on this. Now, to relax fully, and worry about stuff later. So, what do you wanna do for fun?" She asks, as Catherine blinks, and thinks, "What do you usually do?" She asks Vinyl, unsure what is normal. "Because as I said, I like to work out, though uh not in public, I don't want attention." She says, as Vinyl nods. "Okay, well maybe we can, uh get some stuff for you to work out here? Have you ever played video games?" She asks as Catherine gives her a look "Do you think I was allowed them?" Vinyl sighs. "Right, well here let me show you some after we eat." She states, as both eat up and soon finish their delicious meals.

The two then wash their dishes, and Vinyl goes and gets her computer set up, as she also gets her console going, and speaks, "Okay, time to teach you about being a typical teenager." She says, chuckling, as Catherine speaks, "I think most teens aren't into these games."

"Most I know are, now, here is how you-" Soon Vinyl is telling Catherine all about video games, the kinds, how they play on the console, and how they'll start there and go to computer games next. Catherine tries to keep up but soon finds herself getting it, more or less. However, Vinyl is also a good teacher, so maybe that is how. Soon she is seeing Vinyl show her videos on youtube of games, to better help her see what games there are. This is fascinating to Catherine, as she only found youtube recently when she was given her phone to go to public school, and even then she never was into gamers, though the one, Markiplier, is funny, and she watched him a bit.

The two spend a few hours together, discussing and trying out games, Catherine wants to try cute relaxing games, though she gets bored with them. She then tries a game Vinyl likes, which is Dark Souls 3, and oddly, she seems pretty natural at it. Somehow not being surprised that much by the first boss, and avoided the enemies, though still dying here or there. She doesn't get frustrated, just hums and Vinyl seems annoyed by this, but soon speak up about it. "Why are you so calm?"

"It is just a game, any progress I make, no matter how small, is progress nonetheless." She says, as Vinyl blinks, and chuckles. "That is one way to look at it. But how about you keep playing, and I'll plan lunch..or we can go out to eat." Catherine hums, before she speaks, "Up to you, I like this." She says, as she fights some undead things, and finds herself focusing.

Vinyl soon goes about making lunch, simple sandwiches, though Catherine doesn't notice her movement and posture changes. She gets really into the game, as she sits up, leans in and her shirt oddly gets tight against her. She mentally calms herself, before Vinyl notices anything. She soon pauses the game and saves it when she sees Vinyl walk over, and hands her lunch. Both begin to eat up and relax, as Vinyl calmly speaks.

"So, I gotta ask this, you okay with being here? I just don't want to seem like I am being forceful." She says as Catherine waves a hand. "Your fine, this is better than how I was living, though I also need to figure out how I am gonna live till I find my mom here if I can." She sighs and leans back before she hisses. "Ah..." She clenches a fist, as Vinyl looks at her concerned.

"Hey hey what is i-" Catherine holds up a hand and focuses. "I am fine, just a pulled, muscle in my back." She lies, as Vinyl scoffs. "Yeah no that is not one, you look like something stabbed you." She says, moving closer, as Catherine swiftly grabs Vinyl's outstretched hand. Vinyl yelps, and looks shocked, and slightly nervous. "I said. I AM. FINE." She says, focusing, and slowly the pain numbs down to bearable levels. She lets Vinyl go, and mumbles an apology.

Vinyl looks on, shocked, before she blinks, and speaks. "You, have scars don't you?" She says, calmly, as Catherine looks at her and nods. Vinyl sighs and rubs her wrist. "I can get why you're not alright with folks helping you. I think I think you need to stay here. Away from him." She says, sitting down by Catherine, as Catherine sighs.

"He said it was because I was bad. Some never healed right." She says, as Vinyl nods, and touches her shoulder, slowly and in Catherine's sight. Catherine nods and lets her do this, as Vinyl sighs. "Well, I can only advise you to get them checked out or do some antibiotics if any are still open. For now, maybe we take a break from games and discuss school." She says, wants to do something more, active and off the sofa, so Catherine can distract herself and be productive.

Catherine nods, as both soon go about planning how she can enroll at Canterlot High in the spring, how she can explain her situation without drawing attention, and Vinyl using her abuse as clear red flags to avoid them contacting her father. Catherine doesn't want to push it, not wanting her father's wrath for muddying his name, or even folks knowing her father. So she refuses to say who he is and keeps a balance between keeping herself safe, and not drawing his attention.

They soon come up with a plan to ask Principle Celestia about her coming to school due to her running away and needing to continue her education to support herself, and in the hopes of becoming a proper adult and getting away from her abusive father, who let her go since he won't bother coming this far to get her. Catherine wonders about bringing up her mother but decides not to, as she doesn't want to put her hopes up only to be let down.

After this hour of discussion and planning, both go back to gaming, and slowly the events of early fade, and become memories to recall. Catherine recalls that Vinyl is a physical comforter, and Vinyl will recall Catherine is sensitive to contact. Both however do not let this issue stop them from chatting and hanging out. Slowly both become relaxed with each other, and Catherine feels, pretty happy, having fun with someone before. Most girls at her school never could be friends, her father was too strict on that, and also kept her out of the gym and other events she had to change clothing, for obvious reasons.

So to have someone her age, to chat and hang out with, is a nice change of pace for Catherine, as both do this for a while before Vinyl gets a call and she goes to take it. Meanwhile, Catherine checks her phone, noticing nothing odd, and checks the safety chip app, which shows her security and VPN system are all green, the ad says she is in Canada still, along with her GPS and other systems of tracking being unable to connect. "I wonder who made this chip.'

She soon looks up online, for the Atlas Security Chip, and finds very little info, before she finds the maker. Oscar Stark, of the Atlas Security Company, a subsidiary company of the Walker Foundation, is specifically a part of Walker Innovations and Technology. She is shocked and begins to dig more into this, finding they make everything from artificial hearts, devices to help the partially blind see, prosthetic limbs, and a lot of biomedical technology. However, Atlas Security Company is mainly private, with some products being Atlas Home Security, the Atlas VPN network, and oddly a demo of the latest in technology, a type of police drone called "Sentinel" which can be used to chase and apprehend targets via a net gun and taser system.

Catherine feels, concerned, as she discovered Vinyl's father works for a multi-staged cooperate superbusiness that is doing all it can to avoid being a monopoly and has everything from medicine to high-tech weapons at its hands. But, then she sees some news articles about the foundation, mainly them caring for the poor, and orphaned, and also dealing with large global disasters to small-town issues. They seem, oddly everywhere, just not very popular due to their lacking of anything but good stories.

Vinyl returns, as she sighs and rubs her forehead. "Okay, so Bon Bon, Lyra, and Derpy are coming over here in an hour, we gotta clean up and prepare for them, I'll be ordering pizza, and you gotta come up with your story, so we don't have them harping on you all night over your past." She says, as Catherine is snapped out of her thoughts, and blinks.

"Oh dear, alright, I can help clean and think of my story." She says, as Vinyl nods, liking this idea. Soon, they both go about cleaning up, putting clean dishes away, moving laundry, and mainly chores Vinyl would do normally, and ones Catherine feels like she should know how to do. They both get it down quickly, as soon Vinyl orders pizza, and adds one pizza just for Catherine, who goes into her room to change into nicer clothing. But before that she walks into the bathroom.

"gotta change the wrapping.' She thinks, as she soon walks in, only her bra on. She looks at herself, all of herself, poking over her shoulders slightly, are two big, feathered bumps. She extends them out, looking over her large soft wings, and sees her source of pain. The large wound left behind from her wing cuff, which kept them both bound together, left large holes in her delicate wings, that luckily have been healing decently. A measure her father took to keep her from flying since they grew it when she was 6. She soon sighs, and reaches up to one wound, focusing as she recalls the times she saw someone in her home hurt and came to help them. Their happy faces when paper cuts or burns vanished with her power.

She pants, and as she stops, the wound scabbed up again and looks better, but not healed. She soon gives herself a minute, before doing this to the other wing. Again she is left drained, but feeling better. She then sighs, as she goes through the process of cleaning her feathers, and then putting her new shirt and hoodie back on, as luckily her wings are not fully developed yet. "How my mom can hide what dad said was 23-foot wingspan is either with magic or long coats.' she thinks to herself, as she sighs. Her wings are still growing, only at an 8-foot wingspan, as she has no idea when they'll grow more. She hopes they do after she finds her mother. "Unless father's action's stunted them so I'm stuck flightless.'

She sighs, and soon leaves, her wings hidden, as she prepared to meet Vinyl's friends, and puts on a calm expression, dreading the risks and unknown individuals she is about to meet. However, she does not wait long, as Vinyl is already talking to one girl, a wall-eyed gray jacket-wearing blonde, with a jovial smile.

"Oh hello, your new." This girl says as Vinyl smiles, "Yes she is, Catherine, Derpy Hooves, Derpy, Catherine Jackson." She says as Catherine nods. "Hello, nice to meet you." Catherine smiles, as Derpy smiles back. "It is nice to meet you, so, how did you end up with Vinyl as your roommate?" She asks as Vinyl rolls her eyes.

"Oh she helped me out by letting me stay here is all. I am, moving here but sadly I am on my own. Am going to go to your school soon." She says, as Derpy blinks, one eye on her, the others drifting. "Oh, well be careful our school is weird. I mean, did you tell her about the incident?"

Vinyl shushes Derpy, "I was gonna save that for later, but uh, yeah, I should warn you, our school has some weird things going on." She says, as she looks at Catherine, who blinks. She then slowly backs up, and speaks, "If by weird you mean what exactly?" She asks, unsure if she is going to like the answer.

Vinyl sighs, "I can explain when the others get here, though the big points are, do not tell others about what happens at school, it stays in the city limits. Do not record it without making it look or feel like special effects were used. And Lastly, do not call Sunset Shimmer any names or do anything to her. I got emails from my folks saying she's been through shit, and we are not risking pissing off the Smiths over anything."

Derpy speaks up, as she looks at Vinyl, "What about Twilight?" She says, as Vinyl nods, "Oh right, also Twilight Sparkle is someone who comes here sometimes. Don't question her too much." She says, as Catherine processes all this, but looks confused. "Okay? I am, gonna need more info." She says, as soon knocking occurs, as Vinyl goes to answer it, as a girl with half-dark blue, half-pink hair walks in, with a teal-white haired gal beside her, as both greet them all, as Vinyl introduces them as Bon Bon and Lyra respectively.

Catherine says her hellos, and soon they begin to get comfortable. Then Catherine is bombarded with stories and events from their school. Vinyl tells her of how Sunset was a good girl, got power-hungry, then became power-hungry, stole some magical crown, and then became a demon. Yet she is reforming into a good person now but has some problems still. Bon Bon explains how weird stuff, like magic, happens, and how girls at their school grew wings and pony ears, and overall stuff, if Catherine didn't believe in magic herself, would be hard press to believe. Derpy also explains other small oddities, which are that ever since the fall formal, magical events occur, small ones. Or now they all are noticing the magic, as Trixie's stunts seem to make more sense, but also less.

Lyra however, instead of telling her much, basically just relaxes oddly, and looks at Bon Bon with lovestruck eyes. Catherine sighs, and listens to them all. Processing all this on an empty stomach, but luckily for her, the pizza arrives. They all soon get their pies and thank the delivery guy, someone they know from school. The girls witness Catherine consume the pizza, enjoying it as she drinks some soda, and Derpy speaks up. "So, uh, mind telling us about yourself Catherine?"

Catherine holds up a hand and finishes her mouthful of food, as she sighs. "Right, I can. Well, I am here, running away from family problems, and I'm trying to find myself away from home. My folks aren't worried about me too much, so overall, I'll hopefully be fine here. Just uh, no hugs or anything, okay?" She says as Bon Bon nods.

"Understandable, though beware Pinkie, she will read you like an open book, know your birthday, favorite stuff, and what you need to cheer you up," She says as the others nod. Catherine looks confused, but takes her word for it, as from what they told her, that is the least crazy thing she has heard today.

"I'll take your word for it. So, uh, what do you all want to do?" Derpy smiles, and speaks, "I would say talk about boys, but we have three useless lesbians in the room." She giggles, as Vinyl chuckles, along with Lyra, as Bon Bon blush at each other and then looks away. "Derpy, I am not a useless lesbian, I can be quiet ca-" She stops and become flustered as Lyra kisses her cheek. Catherine sees this, and blinks, unsure how she feels about this, but not disliking the sight of girls being romantic. It reminds her of old books she read, and what she wanted her parents to be like.

"I mean, I never dated anyone, so I wouldn't have any answers." She informs them all, as they look shocked, and Lyra speaks, "You're a solid 9 out of 10, how come you got no dates?' Catherine blinks, and sighs, looking at them all sternly, "Because I have a father who disliked me dating before I am an adult." She says, calmly, as they all nod.

Vinyl sighs and nods, "Yeah, and hey, do recall keeping that private Derpy, not everyone has to know." Derpy giggles and nods, "Sorry Vi, but you are bad at hiding it, though how Octavia doesn't know is beyond me." Vinyl sighs, as she speaks, "She knows, she just doesn't care. She and I are friends first, and she was told long before you all."

The girls chat and discuss this, having some arguments over who learned who liked who first, and crushes are mentioned, as Catherine watches and joins when she cans. She feels herself understanding how to interact with folks better, and becoming more, open and thinking over things. She also has to stop giving her stern looks when annoyed, as Lyra looked a bit worried she got upset over her question.

Overall, the conversation drifts to her, as they discuss topics from relationships, to fashion, and some things Catherine understand, like novels, working out, and now video games. Overall the evening begins to fly by, as the girls all soon begin to play Mario Party together, and fight for victory. Catherine does her best and has fun, the first time she has ever hanged out with others her age before. She enjoys it, and with all the chaos and uncertainty the new school and her life now here may hold, she feels, comfort knowing she can make friends here, and perhaps, that is all she'll need to keep herself stable and happy here.

Author's Note

And the first of hopefully a few Catherine Centric chapters. To provide insight and more characters and development of characters. Also, help me with pacing. Now I wonder what you all think of this, and the development of the chapter.

I love feedback and do tell me if you saw this coming or not. I assume not. So I hope you all enjoy it and do have a good time my wonderful readers. And yes, I removed the narrator as I realize it takes you out of the story. He may show up from time to time, but not every chapter (also felt weird for him to tell Catherine's side of things).

Sleepover with the Girls (Vinyl-Centric Chapter)

Vinyl sits on the sofa, watching her friends play video games and hang out with their new friend Catherine. She chuckles as a "novice" Catherine kicks Derpy, Lyra's, and Bon's butts in Mario Party is enjoyable, though Vinyl takes this match out to grab a drink. She heads back to the kitchen, pulls out her juice box, and drinks it, the familiar taste returns to her, as she sighs. 'Boy the mix is getting better.' She thinks, just as she turns and jumps, as the familiar green eyes of an old friend peer at her through a window. Vinyl looks at the others, who haven't noticed, and sighs. Soon she gives the motion to meet in the back and speaks. "Hey girls, gonna be a moment, uh, left something bad in here." She says, pulling out the trash, which is full of old food she forgot to take out, as they all thank her, as they keep gaming.

Vinyl soon puts a scarf on and takes the trash out, before feeling the presence behind her and turning to see Monika Strange, a transfer student who arrived two weeks before Thanksgiving and saw the old chaos of the Fall Formal and other incidents. Vinyl sighs, recalling she was asked to watch over her. "Okay, what's up?" She asks, as Monika sighs, and speaks, softly. "I had nightmares of, what happened. I thought we could talk." She says, wearing a big sweater, sweatpants, and a hat, though not winter attire. Vinyl sighs and moves closer to her. "We can talk, but I got friends over, so you okay with that?"

Monika seems unsure before suddenly a voice speaks. "Uh, Vinyl, who are you? Oh, Monika, why are you here?" Asks one very unsure Bon Bon, who has a soda in hand. Monika blinks, and sighs, "I realized I was over here a few due to the project in Mrs. Nova's class, and I left my catch-up work over." She says, and while that is true, she already picked it up before. Bon Bon blinks, and smirks, "Oh, well that is fine." She says, as Vinyl sighs, and speaks, "Bon, you know why Vice Principle Luna said Monika moved here was "Not to be asked about." and all? Well let's just say I know why, and she needs comfort from someone who knows what it is like." She says as Bon's smirk falters.

"Oh sorry, well do come here, did you bring a bag?" Monika shakes her head, and sighs, "I just came here, I live close b." She says, as soon Bon nods, she holds the door open for Monika but stops Vinyl, who gives her a look, as Bon shares it. Both nod, and soon follow her in. The others are surprised, though Monika and Catherine look at each other, and say hello. Vinyl coughs, and speaks, "Monika, this is Catherine, she's new in town, and Catherine, this is Monika, she's also new, moved in with her friends recently."

After a few awkward moments, of which Vinyl thanks whatever power for Lyra and Bon Bon's quick acting to help keep things from getting more awkward, they all begin to talk, and make Monika feel calm. Vinyl soon hands Monika a drink, and she accepts and watches their game. Vinyl soon walks away, and calls up a familiar number, as a voice answers. "Vinyl, it is a bit late, what is going on?" Vinyl sighs, and speaks, "Monika came over, she is having nightmares again, I think it got worse for her to come to me this late." She goes quiet, as the woman sighs, and replies, "I see, she'll get her sessions pushed to after New Year, we wanted to see if a new environment away from it all would help, especially after what happened. Thank you for the call, I'm going to check on the other patient and their guardians and friends. But for now, let her spend the night, and know her guardians will be informed of this in the morning. Your lucky I am up late talking to someone or I might not have heard my phone." She says and sounds tired.

"Yeah, I know, but I am glad your up. I'll let you get some rest Miss Widogast." she says, as the woman clears her throat, as Vinyl flinches, and sighs, "Sorry, sorry, Miss Koffmann. I am sorry." she says, as Miss Koffmann sighs, "Your fine Vinyl, it happens. Now good night, and don't stay up too late." She says as Vinyl sighs, "I'll try not to, Night." she soon hangs up, and sighs. She returns to the others, who ask Monika how she is, and Monika tells them she is alright, catching up slowly, and helping Sayori and Natsuki get caught up, especially in speaking English, as she is happy Yuri's father lets them stay here since they been sent here to learn and live in America from Japan.

Catherine then asks an odd question, "So English is your second language?" Monika sighs, "No, my father was English, and my mother was Japanese, I learned both at the same time as a child. They taught me so much really, I wish they were" She stops, and closes up, as this is the first time she let anything be said about her past to new folks. However, Derpy places a hand on her shoulder, and speaks, "Don't worry, your okay, no need to say more." Derpy says, as Monika sighs, and pulls herself together. Vinyl sees her left-hand mime something.

Soon, Catherine speaks, "I am sorry if that brought up bad memories. Though I will say, I would love to learn Japanese." She says as Bon jumps on this, "Oh yeah, French for me." She says as Lyra smirks, "Je t'aime Bon." She says, casually as everyone else looks confused, and Bon blinks. "What?" Lyra smirks, as she leans back, "Learn french and you'll know." She says as Derpy smirks, and Vinyl chuckles, "Well don't say it again, she will use google." Monika speaks, "You know french Lyra? I didn't know you took the class."

"Oh I am not, I learned it from my Grandma, she's from France. I do want to take it, but next year, this year is packed." She says, as the others sigh and nod, with Monika shrugs, "It's not that bad, being busy is fine." Vinyl nods, as Catherine speaks, "I wish to go back to school, my homeschooling was, selective, so I plan to join in the spring semester, and try to make up to be at your year." She says as Monika nods, and Bon speaks, "A big task to take, think you strong enough?" She asks, as Catherine looks, contemplative, before suddenly sitting up, and rolling up her hoodie's sleeve, which shows her toned arm off, as she flexes and shows off her strength a bit. "When I was bored and out of stuff to study, I worked out."

The others nod, as Lyra blinks, and Bon snaps her out of it with a light jab, as Derpy seems impressed, and Monika looks away, both in awe, and blushing. Vinyl chuckles, and sighs, "Hey now, Octavia is probably stronger, she carries a cello around, in one arm, like it's a briefcase." She says as the others nod, and Bon speaks, "Sounds like you know from more than seeing." She says, as Vinyl shrugs, and they all chuckle a bit and soon get back into light talking and game playing.

A bit after 1, they all decide to get ready for bed and pull out sleeping bags, and blankets, and like always, the living room becomes a large fort, with separate sleeping areas, yet again, somehow, Bon and Lyra end up sharing one sleeping bag, though this time they have to give Bon's to Monika, as Lyra's is bigger. The lights are soon turned low, as Vinyl does her nightly rounds, of double checking locks, lights, and also her texts, seeing Octavia wished her good night, and also a message from Yuri, hoping Monika is alright, to which she replies "Yes, she is, just went for a walk to check on me." as Yuri gives a thumbs up, and a "Good Night" as they all get ready for bed, and soon, one by one, the others all fall asleep.

Vinyl waits, and counts, soon as she reaches to 5 minutes hearing their heartbeats enter the patterns of sleep, she moves, and Monika sits up softly. Both like ghosts, quietly make their way in comfy clothing to Vinyl's room and slip inside. Monika sits on the bed, as Vinyl soon opens her mini-fridge, and pulls out a bag, which Monika takes and soon uses a straw to drink up. Vinyl sighs, as she whispers, "So, the same nightmare as before?" she asks, as Monika nods, drinking all of the contents of the bag, as she sighs, crimson staining her teeth, as she places it in the bag Vinyl has, to keep it from being seen, as she'll dispose of this with the others this weekend.

"Yes, Nat's dad, attacking her and Sayori, Yuri jumping in, her..injured..." She shakes, and sighs, "Me, turning her. That's the worse part, not..., not him dying, not the gore, the pain I felt....or me even worried about being discovered. It was what I did, I-" Vinyl places a hand on her shoulder. "Easy, Moni, you saved a life, and luckily Yuri not only survived but can control it. That is only because of your actions to inform the proper people of it, and for a team to help you all. You saved her life, Sayori's, and Nat's life. Now, killing someone is bad, turning someone is worse, but recall, you helped Yuri find balance in her new life."

Vinyl sighs, "I know, our "conditions" aren't the same, but from one Vampire to another Moni, you're not a monster, your just someone with weird powers who did things she regrets, and has paid for them." Monika nods, processing all of this, as she sighs, "Your right, but, will be a while till I, accept that. I won't regret going there that day, I couldn't have survived everything without those three." She says, and sighs, as Vinyl nods, and hugs her, in a comforting manner hopefully. 'Mom, thank you for making me take psychology this year.' she thinks, not sure she was the right person to give this talk to Moni, but glad she knew what she did to help ease her mind.

Monika and Vinyl sit in the dark for a moment, before Moni sighs, "I have to uh...ask one odd question though." she whispers, as Vinyl nods, as she waits for Monika to ask. "Is it normal for, vampires to drink their own blood?" she asks, as Vinyl blinks, and gives a concerned look, 'No, not at all, are you-"

"No no, Yuri is, she, she finds most blood tastes bad, and so we been trying to help her, but, she picks her old scars and sips." She says as Vinyl sighs, "Okay, tomorrow, between me being with friends and helping Cath with something, we need to have a talk with Yuri on that. Cause that is both not helpful, and unsafe, but also unhygienic." Moni nods, as Vinyl sighs, before saying, "But, maybe I can see someone about getting some blood juice for you both." Moni smiles, and sighs, "I would like that, and she hasn't had any." she leans on Vinyl, and smirks, "Oh it will be my treat, for Christmas, just don't tell her parents I spoil you both." She says as Moni nods, and the two sigh, and spend a few moments listening to the world.

That is before they hear movement, and soon see Catherine, groggy and tired, slink away into the bathroom, a smell of blood coming from her. Both look at each other, and nod, ignoring it as they soon sneak past and back to bed, so they may rest some. Vinyl tries and only ends up falling asleep after cuddling Octavia's hoodie she "borrowed" and falls asleep, wondering what tomorrow will bring.

Author's Note

Well, I had an idea, for a new plotline in this complex as-is story, and while I am unsure of how this will be taken, I am taking the plunge to add in Monika and the Dokies, but in a unique way.

Also yeah, Vinyl is basically the Big Sis to all young-blood vampires and is both trying her best and winging it. I hope you all like this shorter chapter, don't worry next time we go back to Sunset, and dive into the major story again. But, sadly that may have to wait, with holidays coming up and other priorities, my publishing of the chapter will slow down.