What Once Was Lostby The Crazed WerewolfChaptersChapter 1: FrustrationsChapter 2: CorrespondenceChapter 3: ArrivalsChapter 4: MakeoverChapter 5: AttentionChapter 6: No SignalChapter 7: One Step CloserCrime and Punishment Part 1Chapter 1: FrustrationsAuthor's Note This story is in no way related to any of my other works. I just wanted a break from the Sirens-verse and the idea for this story wiggled it's way into my brain. Chapter 1: Frustrations Rarity rarely did anything that she considered "unladylike", however she couldn't help but get a small feeling of satisfaction as she kicked the can and watched it sail through the goal posts on Canterlot High's football field. She knew that she would not have kicked the can if she hadn't been so angry. Why would Sunset throw away our friendship, she thought privately, maybe everyone was right, and she was only using us this whole time. She didn't notice that the clouds had turned a sinister shade of grey. She didn't notice that is until the sudden downpour started. "ARRRGH!" she yelled in frustration, "this sucks." With out another word she began to make her way back inside. The halls between classes had always been a sanctuary for chaos, but ever since Anon-A-Miss had been created and Sunset began spreading the filthy rumors around the school and revealing the skeletons in everyone's closets, the hallways had become a powder keg. A powder keg on the verge of exploding. As she walked down the hall, she observed former friends trying to tear out each other's throats. Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara were screaming at each other over something that Sunset had posted on the MyStable page. As were Bon-Bon and Lyra, even Muffins was getting into a screaming match with Bulk Biceps. So far only Sweetie Belle and her two Crusader friends hadn't been targeted, and for that Rarity was thankful. Atleast Miss Shimmer has some decency, she thought as she entered the cafeteria. Looking around quickly she was able to find her friends through the chaos. They were seated at their usual table, each with their heads down. Even Pinkie lacked her perpetual smile. Taking her normal seat next to Fluttershy, she looked at each of her friends. They each wore a look that reflected her mood. "Has anyone seen Sunset," Rarity asked quietly. "No," Rainbow said as she cracked her knuckles, "and it's a good thing, because I want to give her exactly what she deserves." "She hasn't been around at all for the last couple of days," Fluttershy said so quietly that Rarity could barely hear her, "I even went by her apartment to check up on her, but she wasn't there." "Why would ya do somethin like that fer," Applejack asked, "ya know that she is Anon-A-Miss." Fluttershy didn't answer, she just hung her head in shame and cried. Maybe Rainbow and Applejack were right and she was too naive. Rarity put her hand comfortingly on Fluttershy's back and stared daggers at Applejack. Fluttershy meant well and had intended to mend their friendship, but Applejack had thrown those intentions back at Fluttershy's face. "If I get my hands on that two-timing schemer," Rainbow said, "it's lights out for her. She'll wish that she never set foot through that portal." "Calm down Dashie," Pinkie said, "leave some for the rest of us." "You can have her," Rainbow replied, "after I'm done." Rarity found herself disgusted with the current state of the conversation and quickly, but politely, excused herself from the table. She quietly re-entered the hallway. She wandered around aimlessly until she found herself standing in front of Sunset's locker. Someone had desecrated it and had emptied it's contents onto the hallway floor. It mostly contained school books. Rarity saw very little in the way of personal belongings. Then she locked eyes on one item in particular. An item that could spell disaster if it found itself in the wrong hands. Not saying a word, Rarity grabbed Sunset's journal and stuffed it in her backpack. Rarity looked at Sunset's locker. She noticed a picture taken just after the Battle of the Bands when they had defeated the Dazzlings. We all look so happy, Rarity thought, Was she playing with us this whole time? Her smile looks genuine. Rarity took the picture and put it in her purse. "Rarity," Rarity heard Vice-Principal Luna say, "it's time for you to get to class." "Yes ma'am," Rarity answered. Honestly, she had trouble staying focused throughout the rest of the day. Every time she tried to focus on her school work, her mind drifted to Sunset. She was thankful when the day ended. Luckily, their driver was early. She and Sweetie Belle didn't have to wait for their ride home. Rarity didn't notice that Sweetie Belle was uncharacteristically quiet during the ride home. Normally her younger sister would bombard her and their driver, Lightfoot, with stories about her day, and the latest hijinks that she and her fellow Crusaders had found themselves in. Rarity sat, watching Canterlot pass by through the windows. The rain had softened to a steady drizzle since it's earlier downpour, but it showed no signs of stopping any time soon. "What do you think Sunset will do next," Sweetie Belle asked suddenly. "What," Rarity said. "I said-" Sweetie Belle replied. "No I heard you," Rarity said, "I just wasn't expecting the question." "Ooh," Sweetie Belle said. "Who knows what Sunset will do," Rarity shrugged, "she hasn't been seen for a couple of days." Sunset I hope you haven't done anything rash, Rarity thought, you were so adamant that you weren't Anon-A-Miss, what if you are telling the truth. "Do you think something happened to her," Sweetie Belle asked, a wave of fear clearly visible on her face. "I'm sure that wherever she is, Sunset is perfectly safe," Rarity said, reaching out to comfort her sister, atleast I pray that she is. Lucky for them, their house had a covered parking area that led up to the front door, so they didn't get wet. "Thank you Lightfoot," Rarity said, "we shouldn't be needing a car this afternoon, you're welcome to go home for the day." "Rarity," the large man said with a laugh, "I've been watching over you since before you could walk. I'll stay until your parents get home." Lightfoot had worked for Rarity's parents for as long as she could remember. Officially the man was Their driver, but privately, Rarity was aware that he was also a bodyguard, hired to look after the girls after a failed kidnapping attempt when she had been a baby. Since then, the man had become family. He often helped the girls with their homework. Sweetie Belle was already inside and watching television when Rarity entered the house. Rarity just wanted to escape from the frustrations of the day and went to her room. She reached into her purse to grab her smartphone, and she ended pulling out the picture that she had taken from Sunset's locker. Rarity gazed at it for a long time. Sunset, she thought to herself, where are you? Chapter 2: CorrespondenceSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 3: ArrivalsThe rain from the previous day had settled in to a light misting rain that morning. I hope that she gets here soon, Rarity thought to herself, Fluttershy is much better with animals than I am. Rarity didn't like to admit it, but she was the most impatient of her friends. Rarity tried to dial Sunset's phone number in a vain attempt to reach her, but unsurprisingly, the number went straight to voicemail. I didn't think that it would work. Rarity silently prayed that, wherever she was, Sunset was safe. "Rarity," a voice that she recognized as Fluttershy said, "who are we meeting, and where are the rest of the girls?" "Spike is going to help us find Sunset," Rarity explained, "I am absolutely positively positive that Sunset is innocent." "Princess Twilight isn't coming," Fluttershy asked sounding heartbroken. "No, the two of us decided that she should remain in her world, just in case Sunset shows up," Rarity continued. "You said that you can prove that Sunset isn't Anon-A-Miss," Fluttershy said after a moment, "start proving." Rarity was quite shocked, maybe she had read Fluttershy wrong. She had never seen her animal loving friend be so assertive before. Carefully, she pulled Sunset's journal out of her backpack as she explained her doubts about Sunset's guilt and how she came to have possession of the magical journal. Opening it to the relevant entries, Rarity allowed Fluttershy to read Sunset's words. Lastly, Rarity pulled out the photo that she had taken from Sunset's locker. "I remember that day," Fluttershy said softly, "the day we won the Battle of the Bands." "Quite right," Rarity said, "look at Sunset's face, that is the genuine smile of friendship, not a fake one." Tears were cascading from Fluttershy's face now, and Rarity reached out to hold her friend. Neither girl noticed that a light rain had begun to fall. They just stood there, one crying and the other comforting. "She tried..." Fluttershy managed to say between sobs, "she tried to tell us the truth and we didn't believe her.... And now she is missing!" "I can track her down," a new voice added. Both girls looked around frantically for the newcomer until they both noticed a small purple puppy with green ears. "SPIKE," both girls said simultaneously. "When did you get here Darling," Rarity asked. "I showed up when you her showing Fluttershy the journal," Spike explained, "can we go inside please, I hate smelling like wet dog." "Certainly Spike," Rarity replied, "we don't want to catch colds standing out here." Rarity decided to leave the task of smuggling Spike around the school to Fluttershy, the animal loving teen had more experience than the fashionista did at that sort of thing. Rarity only hoped that Fluttershy wouldn't overwhelm Spike with her constant attention. The trio met back up at lunch and snuck into the quiet music room. Rarity found herself looking at Sunset's seemingly abandoned guitar. She absentmindedly plucked at the instrument's strings. Neither girl noticed Principal Celestia look into the room. "Oh sorry girls," she said, "I hope that I am not disturbing you." Both girls shook their heads. Then Celestia noticed the familiar purple puppy. "Hello Spike," Celestia said, "what brings you to Canterlot High, is Twilight with you?" "No it's just me, Twilight is staying in Equestria just in case Sunset shows up there" he answered, "I'm helping Rarity and Fluttershy find Sunset Shimmer." Principal Celestia hesitated briefly, "girls, why are you looking for Sunset?" "We know that she isn't Anon-A-Miss," Rarity said, "we just don't know how to convince the rest of the school of that. You haven't heard anything from her have you? "No I haven't," Celestia said, "I'll be sure to let you know immediately if I do" "Thank you," both girls said as Principal Celestia left the room. "Why don't we go by Sunset's apartment after school," Fluttershy said, "if she is alright, then she'll bound to be by her apartment at some point." "That's a great idea Fluttershy," Spike said enthusiasticly. "And maybe Spike," Rarity said hopefully, "you can get a scent and lead us to her. "In this world I might look like a puppy," Spike replied, "but I am a dragon, and we're not known for our tracking skills." "Damn," Rarity said, there goes that idea. Rarity couldn't shake the feeling that Principal Celestia knew more than she was admitting. Sweetie Belle spent the ride home from school playing with Spike. The dragon-turned-puppy had the younger girl's complete attention, or so Rarity thought. "Lightfoot," Rarity asked politely, "would it be possible for us to make a quick detour?" "Certainly," her driver answered, "just as long as it doesn't make us drive across town." "Heaven's no," Rarity replied, "Fluttershy and I would like to go by Sunset's apartment, that's all." "That shouldn't be a problem," Lightfoot answered. It didn't take him long to drive them to Sunset's apartment building. A moving van was pulling out of the parking lot as Lightfoot pulled up to the building. He had barely put the car into park when Rarity opened her door and ran up the steps to Sunset's apartment, taking the steps two at a time in a most unladylike fashion. Fluttershy was just behind her. They knocked on the door but got no response. Rarity then looked in the windows and noticed that all of Sunset's belongings were missing from the apartment. Author's Note I wanted to get this chapter done and published before I go to surgery on Tuesday. Chapter 4: MakeoverRarity and Fluttershy looked at each other. Both girls had hoped that Sunset would be here, but it seemed as though all traces of their friend were being erased "MOVING VAN," both girls cried as they looked at each other. They ran down the stairs taking them two at a time. Rarity was worried that if she didn't hurry, then she would never see Sunset again. "Lightfoot," Rarity ordered as she climbed into the front seat of her driver's car, "follow that moving van!" "I'd love too," Lightfoot said, "did you happen to see which way it went?" Rarity looked in both directions. There was no sign of the van. Only mid afternoon traffic zipping down the street. ARRRGH, Rarity thought to herself, we were so close. Rarity knew that they had only missed Sunset by a few minutes. If only we could have gotten here earlier. "You don't think that Sunset is moving away from Canterlot for good, do you," Fluttershy asked, her eyes starting to glisten as tears formed. "I hope not," Rarity said hopefully, "Sunset isn't the kind of person to run away." "You forget," Spike countered, "she ran away from Equestria when she didn't get what she wanted." "But where would she go," Rarity thought aloud, "the world is a big place, and everyone Sunset knows is here in Canterlot." Sweetie Belle just sat listening to the entire exchange. Fluttershy was weeping uncontrollably now and both Spike and Rarity were trying to comfort their friend. What have I done? They managed to get Fluttershy to calm down before they dropped her off at home. Spike decided to stay with her in case she began to cry again. As soon as they got home, Sweetie Belle, who seemed uncharacteristically quiet during the car ride we straight inside the house. Rarity seemed to hesitate before going inside. "I'm sorry that we didn't find your friend," Lightfoot said, "I'll make some calls, see if any of my old contacts might know any way to help us find her." "Thank you Lightfoot," Rarity said glumly, "I'm going to go lay down." "Let me know if you need anything," Lightfoot said as Rarity went up to her room. Her eyes fell upon a stack of clothing that she had been working on for Sunset before Anon-A-Miss had destroyed their friendship. Rarity picked up the item on the top of the stack, feeling the soft worn leather between her fingers. Hopefully, Sunset will get the chance to wear this, she thought. Rarity set the best back down and sat at her vanity and began to remove her makeup. Then she noticed something that she had forgotten about. She had purchased it back before halloween, but hadn't used it. "Now is as good of a time as any," she said as she stood up and went to her door and called, "Sweetie, I could use your help!" "What's wrong," Sweetie Belle asked as she entered her sisters room. The first thing she noticed was that he sister was cutting her hair. "Sweetie dear," Rarity said she snipped away at her purple locks with a pair of scissors, "I require your assistance." "What are you doing," Sweetie said, confused by her sister's actions. "I can assure you that I haven't lost my mind," Rarity said as she took a pair of electric clippers out of one of the drawers of her vanity and proceeded to shave the side of her head. "You could have fooled me," quipped Sweetie Belle. She was quite sure that her sister had lost it. Rarity had always been proud of her hair, and spent nearly as much time styling it as she spent deciding what to wear, and here she was taking a razor and a pair of scissors to it. "Um, ok," Sweetie Belle gulped, "what do you need me to do?" "See that hair dye on top of my vanity," Rarity asked, Sweetie Belle nodded, not sure if she liked where this idea was headed. "Bring it here," Rarity said, "now I'll need your help." An hour later and Rarity's purple hair was gone. It had been replaced by a purple, turquoise, and cornflower yellow mohawk. She had chosen to change her attire as well, and she now wore a leather vest with silver studs and a pair or ripped back denim jeans. Needless to say, Sweetie Belle was speechless. Her sister had gone from one extreme to the other. "My best work yet," Rarity said confidently as she looked at herself in her full length mirror. Sweetie Belle tried her hardest not to cringe, and Rarity's pet cat, Opalescence, looked at her and hissed loudly. "Oh hush," Rarity admonished with a giggle. "Can I ask why you did this," Sweetie Belle asked. She had remained silent while she had helped her sister, and now she wanted some answers. "Simple darling," Rarity replied. Despite her new tough girl appearance, she retained her normal mannerisms. "I was making an outfit similar to this for Sunset, since she has always had a bad girl look to her. Now she is missing and I for one don't want to forget her." "Oh." Rarity had no trouble telling her parents why she had done what she had done during dinner, and while they were both shocked, they supported her and complimented the loyalty that she was showing to Sunset. Rarity was just getting ready for bed when her smart phone began to ring. She looked at the screen and didn't recognize the number. Hesitantly she answered it. "Hello, who is this," she asked politely. "Rarity," Sunset said. "Sunset," Rarity said sitting up, "where have you been darling? I've been so worried about you." "I....," Sunset began, "I can't tell you where I am, I just want you to know that I'm safe and not in any danger." "Fluttershy and Spike will be relieved to hear that." "Spike is here? So that means that Twilight knows what's happening," "Yes dear," Rarity explained, "someone broke into your locker at school and I took the journal for safe keeping. I hope you don't mind, but I wrote the Princess and she suggested that I read a few of the earlier entries." "That explains why the journal wasn't in the box with my stuff from school," Sunset said, "please keep it safe. I know that I can't return to Canterlot High right now." "Yes," Rarity agreed, "Fluttershy and I are looking into the identity of Anon-A-Miss. When we find this cretin, there will be hell to pay." "Thanks Rarity, I'm glad that atleast one person knows I'm not behind this," Sunset said, "I've got to go. Just do me a favor and stop searching for me, find Anon-A-Miss." With that Sunset abruptly disconnected the phone call. Rarity stared at her phone. Sunset had given her a mission, one that she couldn't ignore. And if I happen to find Sunset along the way, then that will make everything perfect. Author's Note Sorry for taking so long. Between surgery and my new puppy things have been hectic around here lately. Atleast I don't have to deal with snow like the rest of the Country. Chapter 5: AttentionRarity could feel all eyes on her as she entered CHS that morning. She ignored all the looks and comments. She could hear the whispers behind her back that she had lost her mind and had had a psychotic episode due to Anon-A-Miss. Anon-A-Miss had nothing to do with this, she thought as she took her books from her locker, this is for Sunset. Rarity looked up and down the hall before entering the music room. "Oh my," Fluttershy said when she saw Rarity's new look. "Good morning darling," Rarity said as she greeted Fluttershy and Spike. "You look amazing," Spike said, wagging his tail. "Thank you Spike," Rarity said, "you are quite the gentleman even though you are only a puppy." Rarity took a quick look around the room. It wasn't long before her eyes settled upon an empty guitar stand. A guitar stand that had held Sunset's guitar on the previous day. "We must have just missed her yesterday," Fluttershy said when she noticed what Rarity was looking at. "Didn't Principal Celestia promise to tell us if she heard from Sunset," Rarity asked. "I believe that she did," Spike answered. Rarity wanted to storm into Celestia's office at that moment and demand some answers, but she decided against that, even though she looked like a punk, didn't mean that Rarity was no longer a proper young woman. Celestia had to have known where Sunset was, Rarity couldn't think of another person that would let Sunset in after hours to get her guitar. "So...," Fluttershy asked softly, "why the new look?" "I was making an outfit similar to this for Sunset," Rarity replied, "now she might not have the chance to wear it, so I'm wearing it in her honor." "Oh," Fluttershy said. She looked at how her fashionista friend was dressed. Fluttershy didn't know if she could possibly be brave enough to wear a similar outfit, but it did remind her of Sunset. Rarity looked down at her phone. She wasn't surprised to see that she was the subject of Anon-A-Miss' latest post. She suppressed a laugh as she read the insulting post. Strange, she thought, I never noticed how childish these posts were. Rarity continued to scroll down the page, stopping every now and then to read one of the posts. Anon-A-Miss is bound to make a mistake soon or later. Rarity was thankful that Sweetie Belle and her two friends hadn't been among Anon-A-Miss' victims. Why is that, she has targeted everyone else, what makes them immune? "Are you okay Rarity," Fluttershy asked, "you look like you've seen a ghost." "Nothing," Rarity answered, However improbable it may be, I know who Anon-A-Miss is. Rarity was furious with herself for not seeing it earlier. The answer had been so obvious, how had she not noticed it at first. I need to show this to AJ and Rainbow, she thought, however they may not like this. "Rarity," Fluttershy said, "please don't lie to me, you have a look on your face that says you know something." "I figured out the identity of Anon-A-Miss," Rarity sighed, "and I'm ashamed to say that it's my sister and her two friends." "You mean that Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom are responsible for this whole mess," Fluttershy gasped. "Unfortunately," Rarity replied and then proceeded to tell her friend and Spike how she came to that conclusion, using the Anon-A-Miss MyStable page as evidence. "Makes sense," Spike said after Rarity finished, "back in Equestria their counterparts caused all sorts of trouble with a gossip column in their school newspaper, they called themselves Gabby Gums." "Gabby Gums," Rarity cringed, "atleast Anon-A-Miss has a better ring to it." "That's for sure," Fluttershy agreed, "but shouldn't we turn this information over to Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna?" "Oh we will Darling," Rarity said with an evil grin, "but I want to to have some fun first." Fluttershy watched as Rarity reached into her bookbag and pulled out her laptop. It didn't take long for her to pull up the page for creating a MyStable account. "And now," Rarity said at last, "the fun begins" "Oh my," Fluttershy said. By the time that lunch began, the entire school was in an uproar. Someone, nobody knew who, had declared war on Anon-A-Miss. Who ever Shadow Spade was they had promised to reveal the identities of Anon-A-Miss if they didn't turn themselves in by the end of the week. "Who is Shadow Spade," Gilda Griffin was heard asking, "and why are they claiming that Anon-A-Miss has more than one identity?" "I don't know," Bulk Biceps replied, "but what if Sunset is innocent." "I doubt Sunset is innocent," Rainbow said, "this is most likely a lame attempt to throw the blame on someone else." "Sunset hasn't been seen here for over a week," Derpy replied, "and Anon-A-Miss was posting pictures of Rarity earlier today." Rainbow refused to listen. She knew that Sunset was behind everything, even if she didn't have any proof, or any idea on how to prove it. She thought about asking Rarity for help, but Rarity was convinced that Sunset was innocent and she had managed to convince Fluttershy that she was as well. Maybe AJ or Pinkie can talk some sense into them. Meanwhile, three younger girls were starting to panic. "What are we going to do," Scootaloo asked. "Whomever Shadow Spade is" Sweetie Belle said, "they said that they know who we are. Maybe we should go turn our selves in." "Look," Apple Bloom said calmly, "there is no way Shadow Spade could know that it's us. We've covered our tracks and made sure that everything points at Sunset." "But what if we weren't as careful as we thought," Sweetie Belle said, "my sister doesn't believe us and she is looking for the truth." "Why don't we we take a few days from posting anything," Scootaloo suggested, "allow the heat to die down a bit." "But then people will start to forgive Sunset," Apple Bloom replied, "we need people to remember what sort of monster she was." "I agree with Scootaloo," Sweetie Belle. Author's Note Sorry it took so long. My WIFI is down, so the only time that I have to work on new chapters is at work in-between calls. Chapter 6: No SignalRarity was certain that Shadow Spade had gotten into Sweetie's head. Her younger sister was uncharacteristically quiet during the ride home. "A penny for your thoughts Darling," Rarity said as Lightfoot turned the car into their street. "Huh, oh nothing," Sweetie Belle replied as she watched the rain slide along the glass of the car's windows. "This weather is just dreadful," Rarity said, trying to make small talk, "I do hope that it lets up soon." "Yeah," Sweetie Belle replied, not really listening to what her older sister was saying, "Rarity, I need to tell you something." "Well go ahead," Rarity said with baited breath, "I'm listening." "I..." Sweetie Belle hesitated, "nevermind, it's not important." Inwardly, Rarity sighed to herself. She knew that her sister was ready to admit the truth. The anguish behind her actions must have been tearing the younger girl up inside. Rarity had decided not to force the issue, Sweetie Belle would come clean when she was ready. I only hope that day comes soon. Rarity decided that she could no longer hold her tongue. "Sweetie," Rarity began, "I know that you and your two friends are behind Anon-A-Miss, I just want to know why." Sweetie Belle visibly tensed up. "You're Shadow Spade," Sweetie replied, "aren't you?" "Yes I am," Rarity said, "but that doesn't answer my question. Why, Sweetie, why would you tear apart everyone at school?" "We weren't trying to tear everyone apart," Sweetie said, "we just wanted to remind everyone what kind of person Sunset was. We just wanted our sisters back." "That doesn't give you the right to do what you three did," Rarity said, "and while I will forgive you, it will be a long time before I trust you again." "You forgive me," Sweetie asked, confused. "I said that I will forgive you," Rarity said softly, "but right now I can't, you have taken away several things that I hold precious." Sweetie Belle just sat there looking at Rarity, waiting for her to continue. "First you took my friend from me," Rarity said allowing some anger to penetrate her voice, "and then, through your actions you took the rest of my friends away from me, and lastly you took away my trust. You're going to have to work hard everyday from now on to earn my trust once again." "I just wanted to spend time with you," Sweetie Belle replied, almost too quietly for Rarity to hear, "I thought..." "You didn't think," Rarity snapped, "Sunset has been trying to overcome the degenerate that she had been in the past, but you and the rest CHS wouldn't give her the chance that she deserved, and now she is gone." Sweetie Belle didn't know what to say. She thought back to the Battle of the Bands, and how Sunset had fought for all of them. No one at CHS had wanted to accept the fact that Sunset had indeed changed, no one except for the five girls that had become her friends. All we did was make things worse. Sweetie watched as her sister stormed into their house. Sweetie Belle pulled out her phone and dialed a number. "Scootaloo," she said, "we need to talk." Author's Note I want to apologize for how long it took for me to get this one posted. I've had a bit of a rough time lately, but it's nothing that is going to beat me, just know that there are many days when I just can't do anything. I know that this one is very short, but I'm trying to get back into the swing of writing, so please bear with me. Chapter 7: One Step CloserIf I were Sunset, where would I go, Rarity thought to herself as she compared everything she knew about the situation. She didn't go back to her homeland, I wonder why she didn't return to her home, maybe Twilight knows? She pulled out her phone and looked at the number that Sunset had called her from. All that she could tell was that it was a local Canterlot number. And there is the fact that one day Sunset's guitar disappeared over night. It suddenly hit Rarity like a ton of bricks. The answer had been so obvious that Rarity hadn't originally given it any thought. "And now I feel like a fool for not seeing it before," Rarity said to herself. "Why do you feel like a fool," Sweetie Belle asked as she was walking past her sister's room and Rarity had left her door open. "I figured out where Sunset is," Rarity replied. "That's terrific," Sweetie Belle exclaimed, "let's go so that I can apologize to her." "It's not that simple," Rarity said, "let me explain. I know who Sunset has been staying with since her disappearance, and I know that they are in Canterlot. Unfortunately I don't know where in Canterlot that is. Besides you owe alot more people than just Sunset an apology." "I know that I owe everyone an apology," Sweetie Belle said, "but I want, no, I need to apologize to Sunset first." "How noble of you," Rarity said "I only hope that your friends feel the same way." "I know that Scootaloo does," Sweetie Belle said, "I'm not sure about Applebloom." "I'll leave it in your capable hands to make her see reason," Rarity said. "And if she doesn't," Sweetie Belle asked. "We tell AJ," Rarity said nonchalantly. ***** Scootaloo was distracted. Rainbow Dash could tell that much just by looking at the younger girl. Rainbow had been trying to teach Scootaloo how to be a better goalie in soccer, but Rainbow had managed to score three goals and Scoots hadn't even tried to stop them. She just stood there with a bb worried look on her face. "Earth to Scootaloo," Rainbow called, "hey Scootaloo, snap out of it!" "Huh, what was that Rainbow Dash," Scootaloo asked. "What's wrong with you today Squirt," Rainbow said, "normally you pay complete attention to every word I say, but today you are distracted by something. What's wrong?" Scootaloo hesitated, she knew that it was time to come clean about Anon-A-Miss, but she didn't want to lose Rainbow Dash as her mentor and pseudo big sister. "I know who Anon-A-Miss really is," Scootaloo said after a moment. "Yeah," Rainbow said, "it's the traitor known as Sunset Shimmer." "No," Scootaloo answered, "she is innocent." Rainbow's eyes narrowed. She looked Scootaloo over. She was beginning to suspect who the real culprit, or culprits were. "How could you do this Scootaloo," Rainbow said, "the three of you turned the whole school against each other, but worse than that you framed an innocent person, one of my best friends!" "I'm sorry Rainbow Dash," Scootaloo cried, "Sweetie Belle and I tried to stop, but Apple Bloom kept insisting that we keep posting. Please don't stop being my big sister, and please don't hate me." "I could never hate you Squirt," Rainbow said, "I am extremely disappointed in your actions. But I guess that I wouldn't be the most awesome big sister if I didn't try to help you fix this mess." "So you forgive me," Scootaloo asked. "Yes Scootaloo," Rainbow replied, "I forgive you. I don't condone what you've done in the slightest, but I forgive you." Seeing the younger girl weep tears of relief, as though a huge weight had been lifted from her shoulders was almost too much for Rainbow Dash and she enveloped Scootaloo in a warm embrace. ***** Apple Bloom was busy typing away at a new post for Anon-A-Miss. She couldn't believe all the bits gossip that the other students at CHS were sending in. There were rumors that Silver Spoon wasn't as wealthy as she seemed. Lyra kept sending in information about a lost kingdom made up of sentient ponies. Even more interesting was the photographs that Pipsqueak had sent in that showed Lyra and Bon-Bon kissing in the gym. Everything was gold! And as long as everybody thought that Sunset was behind it, then she and her friends would get away Scot free. Her only worry was that both Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle would chicken out and confess. That would ruin everything. I can't do it myself, Applebloom thought to herself, Anon-A-Miss has become too large for one person to handle. Maybe I could bring Diamond Tiara in on it. Applebloom shuddered at the thought. She had been friends with Diamond Tiara in Elementary School, but during Middle School, Diamond Tiara had turned into a bully much like Sunset had once been, and Applebloom had been her primary target. "Applejack, Applebloom," Granny Smith called from the kitchen, "supper is ready." Applebloom got up from the computer, and headed downstairs. Applejack had just finished taking a shower after completing her after school chores around the farm. "I'll be down in a minute," Applejack called from her room. Applebloom entered the family dining room and looked at the amazing supper that Granny Smith had made. Home made fried chicken, mashed potatoes with home made gravy. Ice cold sweet tea, and to top it all off, piping hot apple cobbler. Looking at the meal, Applebloom suddenly got the feeling that she had forgotten something important. Then it dawned on her, she hadn't logged off of Anon-A-Miss MyStable page. Applebloom rushed up the stairs, taking them two at the time. The computer was located at the end of the hall so that anyone that needed to use it could access it. She found that the page was still up. She quickly moved the mouse cursor over the "log out" button and clicked it. Sighing in relief, Applebloom turned around and found Applejack standing right behind her. In her hand Applejack was holding a print-out of the user interface page for Anon-A-Miss. "Applebloom," Applejack said angrily, "I want answers and I want them now!" Author's Note See this fic isn't dead, and neither am I despite Real Life's best attempts to take me out. Crime and Punishment Part 1Rarity wasn't surprised when she entered Principal Celestia's outer office and found both Applejack and Rainbow Dash sitting there with both Applebloom and Scootaloo. Neither of her friends seemed to be able to look her in the eye as she took a seat across from them. "I take it that you two have learned the truth," Rarity asked politely. Rainbow looked like she was on the verge of tears, while Applejack looked downright angry. "Girls," Principal Celestia said as she opened the door to her office, "I know that you wouldn't waste my time if it wasn't important, come inside and tell me what this is about." The six girls silently followed Celestia into her office. She knew that something was wrong. The tension that hung around the room was heavy with emotion. "I'm here ta confess," Applebloom said, "I'm Anon-A-Miss." "So am I," Scootaloo said. "I was also Anon-A-Miss," Sweetie Belle said. For a moment Celestia didn't say anything, though the silence spoke volumes. She looked each of the younger girls in the eye. Each of them felt as if they were standing in judgement before some ancient and powerful deity, and in truth they might as well have been. "So the three of you bullied not only another student, but the entire student population, and framed an innocent student in the process," Celestia asked coldly. The three girls couldn't bring themselves to speak, so they only nodded. Celestia ignored the looks on the faces of the older girls. They had never seen Principal Celestia this furious. Silently, Celestia pushed a few buttons on her phone, "Luna, would you please join me in my office." Celestia didn't wait for a reply. "Whoa," Luna said as she entered the office and saw the six girls, "it's a bit crowded in here." "Luna," Celestia said as she pointed out the three younger girls, "I give you Anon-A-Miss." Luna's expression quickly changed to match her elder sister's. She hadn't considered three middle school students could have been the culprits behind Anon-A-Miss. She had been certain that another high school student had been responsible. "I want them immediately taken to In-School-Suspension," Celestia said, "and I want your recommendations on wether or not they should be expelled, or wether or not we should contact law enforcement." "Principal Celestia," Applejack cried out, "isn't that a bit harsh! You didn't do any of those things to Sunset Shimmer, and she ended up destroying the front of the school!" "I will remind you that Sunset is a special case," Celestia snapped, "Luna and I decided that for both her safety and for the safety of everyone involved it was in our best interest to allow her to remain at Canterlot High. Or would you rather her end as a lab expirament in some secret government facility?" "I never thought about that," Applejack replied. She hadn't ever given Sunset's status as an alien from another dimension a thought. None of her friends had, except for Rarity. "I know that each of you have said things to Sunset that drove her away," Celestia said to the three older girls, "but I am positive that if you ask her, Sunset will forgive you." "I'm sure she would-" Rarity started to say. "NO," Rainbow Dash nearly shouted as she stood up, tears clearly streaming from her eyes, "I DO NOT WANT SUNSET'S FORGIVENESS!" Rainbow then ran out of the office. "I'll go check on her," Rarity said as she excused herself from Celestia's office. It didn't take Rarity long to find Rainbow Dash. The polychromatic haired teen was crying in the empty music room. "Let it all out," Rarity said as she embraced her friend, "want to tell me what is bothering you?" "I can't accept Sunset's forgiveness," Rainbow cried silently, "until I can forgive myself." Author's Note So I am going to break this chapter up into multiple parts.
Chapter 1: FrustrationsAuthor's Note This story is in no way related to any of my other works. I just wanted a break from the Sirens-verse and the idea for this story wiggled it's way into my brain. Chapter 1: Frustrations Rarity rarely did anything that she considered "unladylike", however she couldn't help but get a small feeling of satisfaction as she kicked the can and watched it sail through the goal posts on Canterlot High's football field. She knew that she would not have kicked the can if she hadn't been so angry. Why would Sunset throw away our friendship, she thought privately, maybe everyone was right, and she was only using us this whole time. She didn't notice that the clouds had turned a sinister shade of grey. She didn't notice that is until the sudden downpour started. "ARRRGH!" she yelled in frustration, "this sucks." With out another word she began to make her way back inside. The halls between classes had always been a sanctuary for chaos, but ever since Anon-A-Miss had been created and Sunset began spreading the filthy rumors around the school and revealing the skeletons in everyone's closets, the hallways had become a powder keg. A powder keg on the verge of exploding. As she walked down the hall, she observed former friends trying to tear out each other's throats. Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara were screaming at each other over something that Sunset had posted on the MyStable page. As were Bon-Bon and Lyra, even Muffins was getting into a screaming match with Bulk Biceps. So far only Sweetie Belle and her two Crusader friends hadn't been targeted, and for that Rarity was thankful. Atleast Miss Shimmer has some decency, she thought as she entered the cafeteria. Looking around quickly she was able to find her friends through the chaos. They were seated at their usual table, each with their heads down. Even Pinkie lacked her perpetual smile. Taking her normal seat next to Fluttershy, she looked at each of her friends. They each wore a look that reflected her mood. "Has anyone seen Sunset," Rarity asked quietly. "No," Rainbow said as she cracked her knuckles, "and it's a good thing, because I want to give her exactly what she deserves." "She hasn't been around at all for the last couple of days," Fluttershy said so quietly that Rarity could barely hear her, "I even went by her apartment to check up on her, but she wasn't there." "Why would ya do somethin like that fer," Applejack asked, "ya know that she is Anon-A-Miss." Fluttershy didn't answer, she just hung her head in shame and cried. Maybe Rainbow and Applejack were right and she was too naive. Rarity put her hand comfortingly on Fluttershy's back and stared daggers at Applejack. Fluttershy meant well and had intended to mend their friendship, but Applejack had thrown those intentions back at Fluttershy's face. "If I get my hands on that two-timing schemer," Rainbow said, "it's lights out for her. She'll wish that she never set foot through that portal." "Calm down Dashie," Pinkie said, "leave some for the rest of us." "You can have her," Rainbow replied, "after I'm done." Rarity found herself disgusted with the current state of the conversation and quickly, but politely, excused herself from the table. She quietly re-entered the hallway. She wandered around aimlessly until she found herself standing in front of Sunset's locker. Someone had desecrated it and had emptied it's contents onto the hallway floor. It mostly contained school books. Rarity saw very little in the way of personal belongings. Then she locked eyes on one item in particular. An item that could spell disaster if it found itself in the wrong hands. Not saying a word, Rarity grabbed Sunset's journal and stuffed it in her backpack. Rarity looked at Sunset's locker. She noticed a picture taken just after the Battle of the Bands when they had defeated the Dazzlings. We all look so happy, Rarity thought, Was she playing with us this whole time? Her smile looks genuine. Rarity took the picture and put it in her purse. "Rarity," Rarity heard Vice-Principal Luna say, "it's time for you to get to class." "Yes ma'am," Rarity answered. Honestly, she had trouble staying focused throughout the rest of the day. Every time she tried to focus on her school work, her mind drifted to Sunset. She was thankful when the day ended. Luckily, their driver was early. She and Sweetie Belle didn't have to wait for their ride home. Rarity didn't notice that Sweetie Belle was uncharacteristically quiet during the ride home. Normally her younger sister would bombard her and their driver, Lightfoot, with stories about her day, and the latest hijinks that she and her fellow Crusaders had found themselves in. Rarity sat, watching Canterlot pass by through the windows. The rain had softened to a steady drizzle since it's earlier downpour, but it showed no signs of stopping any time soon. "What do you think Sunset will do next," Sweetie Belle asked suddenly. "What," Rarity said. "I said-" Sweetie Belle replied. "No I heard you," Rarity said, "I just wasn't expecting the question." "Ooh," Sweetie Belle said. "Who knows what Sunset will do," Rarity shrugged, "she hasn't been seen for a couple of days." Sunset I hope you haven't done anything rash, Rarity thought, you were so adamant that you weren't Anon-A-Miss, what if you are telling the truth. "Do you think something happened to her," Sweetie Belle asked, a wave of fear clearly visible on her face. "I'm sure that wherever she is, Sunset is perfectly safe," Rarity said, reaching out to comfort her sister, atleast I pray that she is. Lucky for them, their house had a covered parking area that led up to the front door, so they didn't get wet. "Thank you Lightfoot," Rarity said, "we shouldn't be needing a car this afternoon, you're welcome to go home for the day." "Rarity," the large man said with a laugh, "I've been watching over you since before you could walk. I'll stay until your parents get home." Lightfoot had worked for Rarity's parents for as long as she could remember. Officially the man was Their driver, but privately, Rarity was aware that he was also a bodyguard, hired to look after the girls after a failed kidnapping attempt when she had been a baby. Since then, the man had become family. He often helped the girls with their homework. Sweetie Belle was already inside and watching television when Rarity entered the house. Rarity just wanted to escape from the frustrations of the day and went to her room. She reached into her purse to grab her smartphone, and she ended pulling out the picture that she had taken from Sunset's locker. Rarity gazed at it for a long time. Sunset, she thought to herself, where are you?
Chapter 2: CorrespondenceSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Chapter 3: ArrivalsThe rain from the previous day had settled in to a light misting rain that morning. I hope that she gets here soon, Rarity thought to herself, Fluttershy is much better with animals than I am. Rarity didn't like to admit it, but she was the most impatient of her friends. Rarity tried to dial Sunset's phone number in a vain attempt to reach her, but unsurprisingly, the number went straight to voicemail. I didn't think that it would work. Rarity silently prayed that, wherever she was, Sunset was safe. "Rarity," a voice that she recognized as Fluttershy said, "who are we meeting, and where are the rest of the girls?" "Spike is going to help us find Sunset," Rarity explained, "I am absolutely positively positive that Sunset is innocent." "Princess Twilight isn't coming," Fluttershy asked sounding heartbroken. "No, the two of us decided that she should remain in her world, just in case Sunset shows up," Rarity continued. "You said that you can prove that Sunset isn't Anon-A-Miss," Fluttershy said after a moment, "start proving." Rarity was quite shocked, maybe she had read Fluttershy wrong. She had never seen her animal loving friend be so assertive before. Carefully, she pulled Sunset's journal out of her backpack as she explained her doubts about Sunset's guilt and how she came to have possession of the magical journal. Opening it to the relevant entries, Rarity allowed Fluttershy to read Sunset's words. Lastly, Rarity pulled out the photo that she had taken from Sunset's locker. "I remember that day," Fluttershy said softly, "the day we won the Battle of the Bands." "Quite right," Rarity said, "look at Sunset's face, that is the genuine smile of friendship, not a fake one." Tears were cascading from Fluttershy's face now, and Rarity reached out to hold her friend. Neither girl noticed that a light rain had begun to fall. They just stood there, one crying and the other comforting. "She tried..." Fluttershy managed to say between sobs, "she tried to tell us the truth and we didn't believe her.... And now she is missing!" "I can track her down," a new voice added. Both girls looked around frantically for the newcomer until they both noticed a small purple puppy with green ears. "SPIKE," both girls said simultaneously. "When did you get here Darling," Rarity asked. "I showed up when you her showing Fluttershy the journal," Spike explained, "can we go inside please, I hate smelling like wet dog." "Certainly Spike," Rarity replied, "we don't want to catch colds standing out here." Rarity decided to leave the task of smuggling Spike around the school to Fluttershy, the animal loving teen had more experience than the fashionista did at that sort of thing. Rarity only hoped that Fluttershy wouldn't overwhelm Spike with her constant attention. The trio met back up at lunch and snuck into the quiet music room. Rarity found herself looking at Sunset's seemingly abandoned guitar. She absentmindedly plucked at the instrument's strings. Neither girl noticed Principal Celestia look into the room. "Oh sorry girls," she said, "I hope that I am not disturbing you." Both girls shook their heads. Then Celestia noticed the familiar purple puppy. "Hello Spike," Celestia said, "what brings you to Canterlot High, is Twilight with you?" "No it's just me, Twilight is staying in Equestria just in case Sunset shows up there" he answered, "I'm helping Rarity and Fluttershy find Sunset Shimmer." Principal Celestia hesitated briefly, "girls, why are you looking for Sunset?" "We know that she isn't Anon-A-Miss," Rarity said, "we just don't know how to convince the rest of the school of that. You haven't heard anything from her have you? "No I haven't," Celestia said, "I'll be sure to let you know immediately if I do" "Thank you," both girls said as Principal Celestia left the room. "Why don't we go by Sunset's apartment after school," Fluttershy said, "if she is alright, then she'll bound to be by her apartment at some point." "That's a great idea Fluttershy," Spike said enthusiasticly. "And maybe Spike," Rarity said hopefully, "you can get a scent and lead us to her. "In this world I might look like a puppy," Spike replied, "but I am a dragon, and we're not known for our tracking skills." "Damn," Rarity said, there goes that idea. Rarity couldn't shake the feeling that Principal Celestia knew more than she was admitting. Sweetie Belle spent the ride home from school playing with Spike. The dragon-turned-puppy had the younger girl's complete attention, or so Rarity thought. "Lightfoot," Rarity asked politely, "would it be possible for us to make a quick detour?" "Certainly," her driver answered, "just as long as it doesn't make us drive across town." "Heaven's no," Rarity replied, "Fluttershy and I would like to go by Sunset's apartment, that's all." "That shouldn't be a problem," Lightfoot answered. It didn't take him long to drive them to Sunset's apartment building. A moving van was pulling out of the parking lot as Lightfoot pulled up to the building. He had barely put the car into park when Rarity opened her door and ran up the steps to Sunset's apartment, taking the steps two at a time in a most unladylike fashion. Fluttershy was just behind her. They knocked on the door but got no response. Rarity then looked in the windows and noticed that all of Sunset's belongings were missing from the apartment. Author's Note I wanted to get this chapter done and published before I go to surgery on Tuesday.
Chapter 4: MakeoverRarity and Fluttershy looked at each other. Both girls had hoped that Sunset would be here, but it seemed as though all traces of their friend were being erased "MOVING VAN," both girls cried as they looked at each other. They ran down the stairs taking them two at a time. Rarity was worried that if she didn't hurry, then she would never see Sunset again. "Lightfoot," Rarity ordered as she climbed into the front seat of her driver's car, "follow that moving van!" "I'd love too," Lightfoot said, "did you happen to see which way it went?" Rarity looked in both directions. There was no sign of the van. Only mid afternoon traffic zipping down the street. ARRRGH, Rarity thought to herself, we were so close. Rarity knew that they had only missed Sunset by a few minutes. If only we could have gotten here earlier. "You don't think that Sunset is moving away from Canterlot for good, do you," Fluttershy asked, her eyes starting to glisten as tears formed. "I hope not," Rarity said hopefully, "Sunset isn't the kind of person to run away." "You forget," Spike countered, "she ran away from Equestria when she didn't get what she wanted." "But where would she go," Rarity thought aloud, "the world is a big place, and everyone Sunset knows is here in Canterlot." Sweetie Belle just sat listening to the entire exchange. Fluttershy was weeping uncontrollably now and both Spike and Rarity were trying to comfort their friend. What have I done? They managed to get Fluttershy to calm down before they dropped her off at home. Spike decided to stay with her in case she began to cry again. As soon as they got home, Sweetie Belle, who seemed uncharacteristically quiet during the car ride we straight inside the house. Rarity seemed to hesitate before going inside. "I'm sorry that we didn't find your friend," Lightfoot said, "I'll make some calls, see if any of my old contacts might know any way to help us find her." "Thank you Lightfoot," Rarity said glumly, "I'm going to go lay down." "Let me know if you need anything," Lightfoot said as Rarity went up to her room. Her eyes fell upon a stack of clothing that she had been working on for Sunset before Anon-A-Miss had destroyed their friendship. Rarity picked up the item on the top of the stack, feeling the soft worn leather between her fingers. Hopefully, Sunset will get the chance to wear this, she thought. Rarity set the best back down and sat at her vanity and began to remove her makeup. Then she noticed something that she had forgotten about. She had purchased it back before halloween, but hadn't used it. "Now is as good of a time as any," she said as she stood up and went to her door and called, "Sweetie, I could use your help!" "What's wrong," Sweetie Belle asked as she entered her sisters room. The first thing she noticed was that he sister was cutting her hair. "Sweetie dear," Rarity said she snipped away at her purple locks with a pair of scissors, "I require your assistance." "What are you doing," Sweetie said, confused by her sister's actions. "I can assure you that I haven't lost my mind," Rarity said as she took a pair of electric clippers out of one of the drawers of her vanity and proceeded to shave the side of her head. "You could have fooled me," quipped Sweetie Belle. She was quite sure that her sister had lost it. Rarity had always been proud of her hair, and spent nearly as much time styling it as she spent deciding what to wear, and here she was taking a razor and a pair of scissors to it. "Um, ok," Sweetie Belle gulped, "what do you need me to do?" "See that hair dye on top of my vanity," Rarity asked, Sweetie Belle nodded, not sure if she liked where this idea was headed. "Bring it here," Rarity said, "now I'll need your help." An hour later and Rarity's purple hair was gone. It had been replaced by a purple, turquoise, and cornflower yellow mohawk. She had chosen to change her attire as well, and she now wore a leather vest with silver studs and a pair or ripped back denim jeans. Needless to say, Sweetie Belle was speechless. Her sister had gone from one extreme to the other. "My best work yet," Rarity said confidently as she looked at herself in her full length mirror. Sweetie Belle tried her hardest not to cringe, and Rarity's pet cat, Opalescence, looked at her and hissed loudly. "Oh hush," Rarity admonished with a giggle. "Can I ask why you did this," Sweetie Belle asked. She had remained silent while she had helped her sister, and now she wanted some answers. "Simple darling," Rarity replied. Despite her new tough girl appearance, she retained her normal mannerisms. "I was making an outfit similar to this for Sunset, since she has always had a bad girl look to her. Now she is missing and I for one don't want to forget her." "Oh." Rarity had no trouble telling her parents why she had done what she had done during dinner, and while they were both shocked, they supported her and complimented the loyalty that she was showing to Sunset. Rarity was just getting ready for bed when her smart phone began to ring. She looked at the screen and didn't recognize the number. Hesitantly she answered it. "Hello, who is this," she asked politely. "Rarity," Sunset said. "Sunset," Rarity said sitting up, "where have you been darling? I've been so worried about you." "I....," Sunset began, "I can't tell you where I am, I just want you to know that I'm safe and not in any danger." "Fluttershy and Spike will be relieved to hear that." "Spike is here? So that means that Twilight knows what's happening," "Yes dear," Rarity explained, "someone broke into your locker at school and I took the journal for safe keeping. I hope you don't mind, but I wrote the Princess and she suggested that I read a few of the earlier entries." "That explains why the journal wasn't in the box with my stuff from school," Sunset said, "please keep it safe. I know that I can't return to Canterlot High right now." "Yes," Rarity agreed, "Fluttershy and I are looking into the identity of Anon-A-Miss. When we find this cretin, there will be hell to pay." "Thanks Rarity, I'm glad that atleast one person knows I'm not behind this," Sunset said, "I've got to go. Just do me a favor and stop searching for me, find Anon-A-Miss." With that Sunset abruptly disconnected the phone call. Rarity stared at her phone. Sunset had given her a mission, one that she couldn't ignore. And if I happen to find Sunset along the way, then that will make everything perfect. Author's Note Sorry for taking so long. Between surgery and my new puppy things have been hectic around here lately. Atleast I don't have to deal with snow like the rest of the Country.
Chapter 5: AttentionRarity could feel all eyes on her as she entered CHS that morning. She ignored all the looks and comments. She could hear the whispers behind her back that she had lost her mind and had had a psychotic episode due to Anon-A-Miss. Anon-A-Miss had nothing to do with this, she thought as she took her books from her locker, this is for Sunset. Rarity looked up and down the hall before entering the music room. "Oh my," Fluttershy said when she saw Rarity's new look. "Good morning darling," Rarity said as she greeted Fluttershy and Spike. "You look amazing," Spike said, wagging his tail. "Thank you Spike," Rarity said, "you are quite the gentleman even though you are only a puppy." Rarity took a quick look around the room. It wasn't long before her eyes settled upon an empty guitar stand. A guitar stand that had held Sunset's guitar on the previous day. "We must have just missed her yesterday," Fluttershy said when she noticed what Rarity was looking at. "Didn't Principal Celestia promise to tell us if she heard from Sunset," Rarity asked. "I believe that she did," Spike answered. Rarity wanted to storm into Celestia's office at that moment and demand some answers, but she decided against that, even though she looked like a punk, didn't mean that Rarity was no longer a proper young woman. Celestia had to have known where Sunset was, Rarity couldn't think of another person that would let Sunset in after hours to get her guitar. "So...," Fluttershy asked softly, "why the new look?" "I was making an outfit similar to this for Sunset," Rarity replied, "now she might not have the chance to wear it, so I'm wearing it in her honor." "Oh," Fluttershy said. She looked at how her fashionista friend was dressed. Fluttershy didn't know if she could possibly be brave enough to wear a similar outfit, but it did remind her of Sunset. Rarity looked down at her phone. She wasn't surprised to see that she was the subject of Anon-A-Miss' latest post. She suppressed a laugh as she read the insulting post. Strange, she thought, I never noticed how childish these posts were. Rarity continued to scroll down the page, stopping every now and then to read one of the posts. Anon-A-Miss is bound to make a mistake soon or later. Rarity was thankful that Sweetie Belle and her two friends hadn't been among Anon-A-Miss' victims. Why is that, she has targeted everyone else, what makes them immune? "Are you okay Rarity," Fluttershy asked, "you look like you've seen a ghost." "Nothing," Rarity answered, However improbable it may be, I know who Anon-A-Miss is. Rarity was furious with herself for not seeing it earlier. The answer had been so obvious, how had she not noticed it at first. I need to show this to AJ and Rainbow, she thought, however they may not like this. "Rarity," Fluttershy said, "please don't lie to me, you have a look on your face that says you know something." "I figured out the identity of Anon-A-Miss," Rarity sighed, "and I'm ashamed to say that it's my sister and her two friends." "You mean that Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom are responsible for this whole mess," Fluttershy gasped. "Unfortunately," Rarity replied and then proceeded to tell her friend and Spike how she came to that conclusion, using the Anon-A-Miss MyStable page as evidence. "Makes sense," Spike said after Rarity finished, "back in Equestria their counterparts caused all sorts of trouble with a gossip column in their school newspaper, they called themselves Gabby Gums." "Gabby Gums," Rarity cringed, "atleast Anon-A-Miss has a better ring to it." "That's for sure," Fluttershy agreed, "but shouldn't we turn this information over to Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna?" "Oh we will Darling," Rarity said with an evil grin, "but I want to to have some fun first." Fluttershy watched as Rarity reached into her bookbag and pulled out her laptop. It didn't take long for her to pull up the page for creating a MyStable account. "And now," Rarity said at last, "the fun begins" "Oh my," Fluttershy said. By the time that lunch began, the entire school was in an uproar. Someone, nobody knew who, had declared war on Anon-A-Miss. Who ever Shadow Spade was they had promised to reveal the identities of Anon-A-Miss if they didn't turn themselves in by the end of the week. "Who is Shadow Spade," Gilda Griffin was heard asking, "and why are they claiming that Anon-A-Miss has more than one identity?" "I don't know," Bulk Biceps replied, "but what if Sunset is innocent." "I doubt Sunset is innocent," Rainbow said, "this is most likely a lame attempt to throw the blame on someone else." "Sunset hasn't been seen here for over a week," Derpy replied, "and Anon-A-Miss was posting pictures of Rarity earlier today." Rainbow refused to listen. She knew that Sunset was behind everything, even if she didn't have any proof, or any idea on how to prove it. She thought about asking Rarity for help, but Rarity was convinced that Sunset was innocent and she had managed to convince Fluttershy that she was as well. Maybe AJ or Pinkie can talk some sense into them. Meanwhile, three younger girls were starting to panic. "What are we going to do," Scootaloo asked. "Whomever Shadow Spade is" Sweetie Belle said, "they said that they know who we are. Maybe we should go turn our selves in." "Look," Apple Bloom said calmly, "there is no way Shadow Spade could know that it's us. We've covered our tracks and made sure that everything points at Sunset." "But what if we weren't as careful as we thought," Sweetie Belle said, "my sister doesn't believe us and she is looking for the truth." "Why don't we we take a few days from posting anything," Scootaloo suggested, "allow the heat to die down a bit." "But then people will start to forgive Sunset," Apple Bloom replied, "we need people to remember what sort of monster she was." "I agree with Scootaloo," Sweetie Belle. Author's Note Sorry it took so long. My WIFI is down, so the only time that I have to work on new chapters is at work in-between calls.
Chapter 6: No SignalRarity was certain that Shadow Spade had gotten into Sweetie's head. Her younger sister was uncharacteristically quiet during the ride home. "A penny for your thoughts Darling," Rarity said as Lightfoot turned the car into their street. "Huh, oh nothing," Sweetie Belle replied as she watched the rain slide along the glass of the car's windows. "This weather is just dreadful," Rarity said, trying to make small talk, "I do hope that it lets up soon." "Yeah," Sweetie Belle replied, not really listening to what her older sister was saying, "Rarity, I need to tell you something." "Well go ahead," Rarity said with baited breath, "I'm listening." "I..." Sweetie Belle hesitated, "nevermind, it's not important." Inwardly, Rarity sighed to herself. She knew that her sister was ready to admit the truth. The anguish behind her actions must have been tearing the younger girl up inside. Rarity had decided not to force the issue, Sweetie Belle would come clean when she was ready. I only hope that day comes soon. Rarity decided that she could no longer hold her tongue. "Sweetie," Rarity began, "I know that you and your two friends are behind Anon-A-Miss, I just want to know why." Sweetie Belle visibly tensed up. "You're Shadow Spade," Sweetie replied, "aren't you?" "Yes I am," Rarity said, "but that doesn't answer my question. Why, Sweetie, why would you tear apart everyone at school?" "We weren't trying to tear everyone apart," Sweetie said, "we just wanted to remind everyone what kind of person Sunset was. We just wanted our sisters back." "That doesn't give you the right to do what you three did," Rarity said, "and while I will forgive you, it will be a long time before I trust you again." "You forgive me," Sweetie asked, confused. "I said that I will forgive you," Rarity said softly, "but right now I can't, you have taken away several things that I hold precious." Sweetie Belle just sat there looking at Rarity, waiting for her to continue. "First you took my friend from me," Rarity said allowing some anger to penetrate her voice, "and then, through your actions you took the rest of my friends away from me, and lastly you took away my trust. You're going to have to work hard everyday from now on to earn my trust once again." "I just wanted to spend time with you," Sweetie Belle replied, almost too quietly for Rarity to hear, "I thought..." "You didn't think," Rarity snapped, "Sunset has been trying to overcome the degenerate that she had been in the past, but you and the rest CHS wouldn't give her the chance that she deserved, and now she is gone." Sweetie Belle didn't know what to say. She thought back to the Battle of the Bands, and how Sunset had fought for all of them. No one at CHS had wanted to accept the fact that Sunset had indeed changed, no one except for the five girls that had become her friends. All we did was make things worse. Sweetie watched as her sister stormed into their house. Sweetie Belle pulled out her phone and dialed a number. "Scootaloo," she said, "we need to talk." Author's Note I want to apologize for how long it took for me to get this one posted. I've had a bit of a rough time lately, but it's nothing that is going to beat me, just know that there are many days when I just can't do anything. I know that this one is very short, but I'm trying to get back into the swing of writing, so please bear with me.
Chapter 7: One Step CloserIf I were Sunset, where would I go, Rarity thought to herself as she compared everything she knew about the situation. She didn't go back to her homeland, I wonder why she didn't return to her home, maybe Twilight knows? She pulled out her phone and looked at the number that Sunset had called her from. All that she could tell was that it was a local Canterlot number. And there is the fact that one day Sunset's guitar disappeared over night. It suddenly hit Rarity like a ton of bricks. The answer had been so obvious that Rarity hadn't originally given it any thought. "And now I feel like a fool for not seeing it before," Rarity said to herself. "Why do you feel like a fool," Sweetie Belle asked as she was walking past her sister's room and Rarity had left her door open. "I figured out where Sunset is," Rarity replied. "That's terrific," Sweetie Belle exclaimed, "let's go so that I can apologize to her." "It's not that simple," Rarity said, "let me explain. I know who Sunset has been staying with since her disappearance, and I know that they are in Canterlot. Unfortunately I don't know where in Canterlot that is. Besides you owe alot more people than just Sunset an apology." "I know that I owe everyone an apology," Sweetie Belle said, "but I want, no, I need to apologize to Sunset first." "How noble of you," Rarity said "I only hope that your friends feel the same way." "I know that Scootaloo does," Sweetie Belle said, "I'm not sure about Applebloom." "I'll leave it in your capable hands to make her see reason," Rarity said. "And if she doesn't," Sweetie Belle asked. "We tell AJ," Rarity said nonchalantly. ***** Scootaloo was distracted. Rainbow Dash could tell that much just by looking at the younger girl. Rainbow had been trying to teach Scootaloo how to be a better goalie in soccer, but Rainbow had managed to score three goals and Scoots hadn't even tried to stop them. She just stood there with a bb worried look on her face. "Earth to Scootaloo," Rainbow called, "hey Scootaloo, snap out of it!" "Huh, what was that Rainbow Dash," Scootaloo asked. "What's wrong with you today Squirt," Rainbow said, "normally you pay complete attention to every word I say, but today you are distracted by something. What's wrong?" Scootaloo hesitated, she knew that it was time to come clean about Anon-A-Miss, but she didn't want to lose Rainbow Dash as her mentor and pseudo big sister. "I know who Anon-A-Miss really is," Scootaloo said after a moment. "Yeah," Rainbow said, "it's the traitor known as Sunset Shimmer." "No," Scootaloo answered, "she is innocent." Rainbow's eyes narrowed. She looked Scootaloo over. She was beginning to suspect who the real culprit, or culprits were. "How could you do this Scootaloo," Rainbow said, "the three of you turned the whole school against each other, but worse than that you framed an innocent person, one of my best friends!" "I'm sorry Rainbow Dash," Scootaloo cried, "Sweetie Belle and I tried to stop, but Apple Bloom kept insisting that we keep posting. Please don't stop being my big sister, and please don't hate me." "I could never hate you Squirt," Rainbow said, "I am extremely disappointed in your actions. But I guess that I wouldn't be the most awesome big sister if I didn't try to help you fix this mess." "So you forgive me," Scootaloo asked. "Yes Scootaloo," Rainbow replied, "I forgive you. I don't condone what you've done in the slightest, but I forgive you." Seeing the younger girl weep tears of relief, as though a huge weight had been lifted from her shoulders was almost too much for Rainbow Dash and she enveloped Scootaloo in a warm embrace. ***** Apple Bloom was busy typing away at a new post for Anon-A-Miss. She couldn't believe all the bits gossip that the other students at CHS were sending in. There were rumors that Silver Spoon wasn't as wealthy as she seemed. Lyra kept sending in information about a lost kingdom made up of sentient ponies. Even more interesting was the photographs that Pipsqueak had sent in that showed Lyra and Bon-Bon kissing in the gym. Everything was gold! And as long as everybody thought that Sunset was behind it, then she and her friends would get away Scot free. Her only worry was that both Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle would chicken out and confess. That would ruin everything. I can't do it myself, Applebloom thought to herself, Anon-A-Miss has become too large for one person to handle. Maybe I could bring Diamond Tiara in on it. Applebloom shuddered at the thought. She had been friends with Diamond Tiara in Elementary School, but during Middle School, Diamond Tiara had turned into a bully much like Sunset had once been, and Applebloom had been her primary target. "Applejack, Applebloom," Granny Smith called from the kitchen, "supper is ready." Applebloom got up from the computer, and headed downstairs. Applejack had just finished taking a shower after completing her after school chores around the farm. "I'll be down in a minute," Applejack called from her room. Applebloom entered the family dining room and looked at the amazing supper that Granny Smith had made. Home made fried chicken, mashed potatoes with home made gravy. Ice cold sweet tea, and to top it all off, piping hot apple cobbler. Looking at the meal, Applebloom suddenly got the feeling that she had forgotten something important. Then it dawned on her, she hadn't logged off of Anon-A-Miss MyStable page. Applebloom rushed up the stairs, taking them two at the time. The computer was located at the end of the hall so that anyone that needed to use it could access it. She found that the page was still up. She quickly moved the mouse cursor over the "log out" button and clicked it. Sighing in relief, Applebloom turned around and found Applejack standing right behind her. In her hand Applejack was holding a print-out of the user interface page for Anon-A-Miss. "Applebloom," Applejack said angrily, "I want answers and I want them now!" Author's Note See this fic isn't dead, and neither am I despite Real Life's best attempts to take me out.
Crime and Punishment Part 1Rarity wasn't surprised when she entered Principal Celestia's outer office and found both Applejack and Rainbow Dash sitting there with both Applebloom and Scootaloo. Neither of her friends seemed to be able to look her in the eye as she took a seat across from them. "I take it that you two have learned the truth," Rarity asked politely. Rainbow looked like she was on the verge of tears, while Applejack looked downright angry. "Girls," Principal Celestia said as she opened the door to her office, "I know that you wouldn't waste my time if it wasn't important, come inside and tell me what this is about." The six girls silently followed Celestia into her office. She knew that something was wrong. The tension that hung around the room was heavy with emotion. "I'm here ta confess," Applebloom said, "I'm Anon-A-Miss." "So am I," Scootaloo said. "I was also Anon-A-Miss," Sweetie Belle said. For a moment Celestia didn't say anything, though the silence spoke volumes. She looked each of the younger girls in the eye. Each of them felt as if they were standing in judgement before some ancient and powerful deity, and in truth they might as well have been. "So the three of you bullied not only another student, but the entire student population, and framed an innocent student in the process," Celestia asked coldly. The three girls couldn't bring themselves to speak, so they only nodded. Celestia ignored the looks on the faces of the older girls. They had never seen Principal Celestia this furious. Silently, Celestia pushed a few buttons on her phone, "Luna, would you please join me in my office." Celestia didn't wait for a reply. "Whoa," Luna said as she entered the office and saw the six girls, "it's a bit crowded in here." "Luna," Celestia said as she pointed out the three younger girls, "I give you Anon-A-Miss." Luna's expression quickly changed to match her elder sister's. She hadn't considered three middle school students could have been the culprits behind Anon-A-Miss. She had been certain that another high school student had been responsible. "I want them immediately taken to In-School-Suspension," Celestia said, "and I want your recommendations on wether or not they should be expelled, or wether or not we should contact law enforcement." "Principal Celestia," Applejack cried out, "isn't that a bit harsh! You didn't do any of those things to Sunset Shimmer, and she ended up destroying the front of the school!" "I will remind you that Sunset is a special case," Celestia snapped, "Luna and I decided that for both her safety and for the safety of everyone involved it was in our best interest to allow her to remain at Canterlot High. Or would you rather her end as a lab expirament in some secret government facility?" "I never thought about that," Applejack replied. She hadn't ever given Sunset's status as an alien from another dimension a thought. None of her friends had, except for Rarity. "I know that each of you have said things to Sunset that drove her away," Celestia said to the three older girls, "but I am positive that if you ask her, Sunset will forgive you." "I'm sure she would-" Rarity started to say. "NO," Rainbow Dash nearly shouted as she stood up, tears clearly streaming from her eyes, "I DO NOT WANT SUNSET'S FORGIVENESS!" Rainbow then ran out of the office. "I'll go check on her," Rarity said as she excused herself from Celestia's office. It didn't take Rarity long to find Rainbow Dash. The polychromatic haired teen was crying in the empty music room. "Let it all out," Rarity said as she embraced her friend, "want to tell me what is bothering you?" "I can't accept Sunset's forgiveness," Rainbow cried silently, "until I can forgive myself." Author's Note So I am going to break this chapter up into multiple parts.
