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         My Little Pony: When Friendship Shimmers          
                      -by Timeman202-                      
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              Prologue: Sunset Meets Twilight              
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Prologue: Sunset Meets Twilight
It was a nice day outside, and Sunset Shimmer had decided to take a break from being inside to look around. For two weeks she had difficulty talking to anypony because two weeks ago her brother had gone missing. And it's been difficult for her to connect to anyone else.
As she explored outside however, she soon heard Princess Cadence with a young foal. Checking it out, Sunset found a purple unicorn filly.
"Oh hey Sunset. I guess you found me doing my foal sitting job." Cadence said.
"Foal sitting?" Sunset asked.
"Do you know Princess Cadence?" The young filly. "She's the best foal sitter ever!" She said. The way the young filly said that just melted Sunset's heart.
"You could say that. Got a name, kid?" Sunset asked.
"My name's Twilight Sparkle. And you are?" Twilight asked.
"I go by Sunset Shimmer." Sunset said. Suddenly Shining Armor showed up.
"Oh hey Sunset. I see you've met my baby sister." Shining Armor said.
"Captain Shining Armor is your brother? That's actually pretty neat." Sunset said. Then she had a thought. "You know, Captain Shining Armor is a cool big brother and all, but do you have any big sisters in your life?" Sunset asked.
"Nope. All I have is Shining Armor; he's my B.B.B.F.F.!" Twilight said.
"B.B.B.F.F.?" Sunset said confused.
"Big Brother Best Friend Forever. It's a thing she does." Cadence said. That sealed it for Sunset.
"Well then, even if we're not blood realtives, I think I can be a good big sister model for you Twilight. What do you say; would you like me as a surrogate big sister?" Sunset asked.
"What's a sere-gat?" Twilight asked Cadence. Sunset couldn't help but shake her head and smile.
"She's young but she tries..." Cadence said. "Twilight, a Surrogate is the same as a substitute." She answered Twilight.
"Oh! I know what a substitute is! Okay Sunset, you can be my substitute big sister if you want." Twilight said. "Is that something for roleplay?" She asked. Shining facehoofed but Sunset just got down on Twilight's eye level.
"Not really. Basically, I'm going to hang out with you and help you out where you need it kid. Anything you want, I'll see if I can help you out with it. In other words, this is going beyond simple role playing." Sunset explained.
"Oh...I thought you meant you'd play with me." Twilight said.
"Do you want me to play with you right now?" Sunset asked.
"I'd love it if you'd play with me." Twilight said.
"Then what do you want to play, Twilight?" Sunset asked.
"Let's play tag." Twilight said before booping Sunset's nose. "Your it!" Twilight said before running off. Sunset couldn't help but laugh.
"Hey! Wait up!" Sunset said before chasing after Twilight.
"...Shining, you look worried. Is it because of Sunset's attitude lately?" Cadence asked.
"Something like that but..." Shining said. "I can't bring myself to object and now seeing Sunset interact with my baby sister...maybe this is for the best for both of them. Twilight doesn't have any friends outside of me, and I think Sunset could use someone to mentor." He explained. "It'd help her get over...you-know-who..." Shining added.
"I get what you mean. Plus, Twilight seems to really like her." Cadence said.
Later on, the sun began to set.
"Gee, you've got a lot of energy in you kid." Sunset said. "Unfortunately I gotta go for now. I'll hang out as often as I can though. And if you ever need me for anything, give the message to your brother, but only for an emergency." She said.
"I understand. It was nice of you to play with me Sunset. Thanks for today." Twilight said. Sunset smiled and left back towards the castle. She didn't even know that Celestia had watched her the entire day.
"So that purple unicorn actually melted Sunset's colding heart...how interesting." Celestia said. "I suppose I won't have to show her the mirror after all." She added before heading back inside.
A bit later as night approuched, Sunset started to get in bed.
"That Twilight Sparkle...something about her reminds me so much of my baby brother. Wherever he is, I hope he's okay. For now, I'll do for Twilight what I couldn't do for my baby brother." Sunset said before laying down. "Goodnight Twilight...I hope someday you can call me your B.S.B.F.F.; short for Big Sister Best Friend Forever..." She added before falling asleep. She didn't know that Celestia had heard her lament.
"...This Twilight Sparkle...whoever she is...seems to be a good influence for Sunset. But I have no idea if this was a one day thing..." Celestia said to herself.
Over the course of the next few weeks let alone months, Sunset's attitude had improved greatly and whenever the orange unicorn could, she was hanging out with her new surrogate little sister, thus proving that it wasn't a one day thing. It didn't take long before Twilight began seeing Sunset as her big sister, and even once called her B.S.B.F.F. and as far as Shining was concerned, he was happy that Sunset could become the big sister Twilight needed. Not the big sister that Twilight could have wanted, but the big sister Twilight needed to have in her life.
And one day, when Cadence revealed to Twilight that Sunset was in Celestia's School for gifted unicorns, the purple unicorn wanted Sunset to teach the young filly some magic. Sunset was more then happy to oblige and soon enough, the two were growing close together.
When Twilight decided she wanted to attend the school as well after that year's summer sun celebration, Sunset used her position as Celestia's student to speed up the application approval by a whole week, and the approval was given within just three days! The day of the test, Twilight began to feel nervous.
"I'm scared big sis..." Twilight told Sunset.
"You'll be fine. Just go in there, do everything I've been teaching you, and you'll nail the entrance exam no problem." Sunset said. But then the test got changed on them both: Twilight had to hatch a dragon egg. Which pissed Sunset off. What is Celestia thinking? Foals Twilight's age can't hatch this; only an Alicorn could harness enough magic to hatch this... She thought to herself. While most of her greed and ambition was nulled by Twilight, Sunset wasn't okay with many of the things Celestia was doing as the Princess of Equestria.
And just when it looked like Twilight had flunk her entrance exam, suddenly a big rainbow explosion jump started Twilight's Magic to the point where her magic had to be reigned in by Celestia. Thankfully, not only did Celestia forgive Twilight's actions, Twilight had successfully hatched the Dragon Egg. Not only that, but Twilight even got her cutie mark that day. Once it was revealed, Sunset gave her little sister a big hug.
"You did good little sis. You did good." Sunset said. "And you couldn't have made me prouder." She added.
"Now Twilight Sparkle was it? With that much magical power in you, I think I would like you to personally study under me alongside Sunset Shimmer here." Celestia said.
"Wait Sunset...you never told me you were the Princess's personal student." Twilight said.
"Didn't want you to think any different of me. I wanted you to treat me like you would any one else that came up to you." Sunset said.
"Oh. I think I get it. I forgive you, B.S.B.F.F." Twilight said, smiling.
"Thanks L.S.B.F.F." Sunset said. Celestia couldn't help but smile. Just a few months ago, Sunset wouldn't have done something like this. But whatever it is about Twilight, it's made Sunset change for the better. That's why Celestia is sure about this decision.
"But before we wrap up here...Princess Celestia, I would normally never question you, but seriously? HATCHING A DRAGON EGG? WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?!" Sunset asked, practically yelling.
"That was not my decision. And as for the pony that is responsible..." Celestia said. That's when everyone noticed that one of the judges had tried to sneak off only to be caught by Celestia. "...I thought I warned you that the next time you did something like this, you'd be fired. Well, apperently words aren't enough. Pack your things for tomorrow, because as of this moment, you are FIRED!" Celestia said before throwing the pony out of the room.
"...Oh...never mind..." Sunset said, feeling guilty for accusing the Princess of this.
"It's fine, Sunset. I don't blame you for thinking I was responsible. And I am partially responsible. I'll have to have that judge replaced for this." Celestia said and left.
"Why'd you go off on Princess Celestia for that, Sunset?" Twilight asked.
"Twilight, I've witnessed the princess making a lot of controversial decisions. It's gotten to the point where I'm getting fed up with the ones that are just plain stupid." Sunset said. "She's lucky this wasn't her fault this time." She added before leaving.
"...There's a history there...but my big sis will tell me when she's ready." Twilight said. She had no idea how long it would be before she found out about said history.
Author's Note
Enter my new alternate universe, where Sunset becomes an Element of Harmony and meets Twilight before the purple unicorn enters Celestia's School. Who is Sunset's Brother, and what his disappearance have to do with how Sunset went off on Celestia? Stay tuned for more info!

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       Season 1 - Episode 1: Around Ponyville Part 1       
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Season 1 - Episode 1: Around Ponyville Part 1
As much as Moondancer was happy all her friends were here for her birthday party, she was feeling a bit guilty with Twilight being there.
"Hey Twilight..." Moondancer said to Twilight.
"Hey Moondancer. You don't look like your having much fun. Something wrong?" Twilight asked.
"Well it's just that...I appriciate you being here but...I feel guilty keeping you from your studies." Moondancer said. Twilight just smiled.
"Actually, I don't need to do any studying for a while. Princess Celestia wanted me to take some time off for a few days." Twilight said.
"Oh..." Moondancer felt stupid now. "I legit thought you'd be doing some studying for a while." She said.
"Nah. Princess Celestia says I'm ahead in all my studies so we should make today about you." Twilight said.
"TWILIGHT, TWILIGHT WHERE ARE YOU?!" Sunset's voice could be heard yelling.
"...Sounds like Sunset needs you for something. Why don't you go to her? I'll be fine." Moondancer said.
"If your certain Moondancer." Twilight said before going to Sunset. Over the years, the purple unicorn has seen Sunset more and more like her big sister, and only their closest friends know that they aren't really sisters; Moondancer being amongst them.
"There you are little sis. How was Moondancer's party?" Sunset asked.
"It was fine, but Moondancer thought she was cutting into my study time." Twilight said. Sunset couldn't help but chuckle.
"You did tell her the princess gave you time off right?" Sunset asked.
"I told her as much, yes. So why were you calling out for me?" Twilight asked.
"Well as you know, the Summer Sun Celebration is in Ponyville this year. I asked Celestia if there was anything we could do for her regarding this, we'd be aviable." Sunset said. Suddenly Spike was heading up to them. Ever since hatching him, Twilight's family adopted the purple dragon.
"Guys...we have an important message from the Princess..." Spike said. "She wants you both to go to the summer sun celebration, oversee the process, and make some friends there." He said.
"Oh of all the things for her to tack on..." Sunset said.
"Come on Sunset. We can make time to chat with a few locals as we go." Twilight said. "Besides...something has come up in my books that worries me." She added.
"Like what?" Sunset asked.
"Tell me, do you know about the Mare in the Moon?" Twilight asked. Sunset couldn't help but start rolling on the floor laughing.
"That old mare's tale? That's what's got you so worried?" Sunset asked. "Come on little sis, I know your younger then me by three years, but you should be over believing in those silly old tales." She added. Twilight eyed Sunset questioningly.
"When Nightmare Moon suddenly appears later on at the Summer Sun Celebration, I'll get to say I told you so." Twilight said before heading off to catch their chariot.
"Nightmare Moon is just another Mare's Tale." Sunset said as she followed after her surrogate little sister.
"Instead of worrying about Nightmare Moon so much, how about you do as you wanted and chat with the locals." Sunset said as they landed and then disembarked.
"I guess worrying about that right now wouldn't solve the problem. I'm sure I'll find a solution eventually." Twilight said. She looked over at a Pink Pony. "Hello there, I'm..." Twilight started up before the pink pony gasped, jumped up in the air, and then took off.
"That...was weird." Sunset said. "Where do you think she ran off to?" She asked.
"No idea...but let's head to Sweet Apple Acres. Surely we can find more people to chat with on the way." Twilight said.
The duo arrived at Sweet Apple Acres soon enough.
"Was it just me, or did I see Lyra on the way here?" Sunset asked.
"It's not just you. Did you forget she moved away from Canterlot after she failed school?" Twilight asked.
"Must have slipped my mind..." Sunset asked. "But I have to admit, the way she plays that lyre is quite impressive." She added.
"You never saw her practicing out at night did you?" Twilight asked.
"...You actually go out at night?" Sunset said.
"I may have gotten my cutie mark in magic, but astronomy really interests me." Twilight said. "We're here." She added.
"Oh hey there. You two look pretty close. Are you a couple?" An orange earth pony asked them.
"What? No!" Sunset said. "My name's Sunset Shimmer, and this next to me is Twilight Sparkle; we prefer to think of each other as sisters even if we're not blood related." She added extending a hoof.
"Now that's an interesting yet very honest answer Sunset." The orange earth pony said before grabbing Sunset's extended hoof and shaking her very clearly. "Well we here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like making some new friends. My name's Applejack." Applejack added.
"So...are you the one in charge of the food then?" Twilight asked.
"Not exactly, that would be my granny; Granny Smith." Applejack said. "But she's getting up there in years so she's left me in charge of making sure the food gets presented at the festival tomorrow." She said.
"Interesting..." Sunset said. "Hey, here's a thought: Why don't you give us a sample of your food?" She asked.
"Why, that's the best thing I've heard all day. Sure, I think we can spare a few things. After all, we just got done with our apple family reunion so I think we have some leftovers from that." Applejack said and sped off.
"...I just hope we don't overeat things here..." Twilight said.
TO BE CONTINUED

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       Season 1: Episode 2 - Around Ponyville Part 2       
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Season 1: Episode 2 - Around Ponyville Part 2
"Remind me never to open my big mouth..." Twilight said as she and Sunset Shimmer left Sweet Apple Acres back into Ponyville proper.
"You said it not me..." Sunset said. "So, next we need to find a pegasus called Rainbow Da--" Sunset began but was suddenly tackled to the ground by a cyan pegasus mare with a Rainbow Mane.
"Um...excuse me..." The pegasus mare said. If Twilight didn't know any better, she'd mistake this pegasus for a stallion with how physically built she was.
"You must be Rainbow Dash." Twilight said.
"The one and only. Sorry about the run in, I was practicing my act for when the wonderbolts show up at the Summer Sun celebration." Rainbow Dash said.
"Seriously? You?" Sunset said and then jestured up. "It's supposed to be cloudless, so why are their clouds around? If your looking to get in the Wonderbolts, you better do your duties." Sunset said.
"Ha! I can clear this sky in ten seconds flat!" Rainbow Dash said.
"I don't believe you for a second." Twilight said.
"Yeah, prove it!" Sunset said. Rainbow Dash proceeded to cloud bust all the clouds in the sky with Twilight timing her. When all was said and done...
"Un-unbelievable!" Twilight said. "That took 9.57 seconds!" She exclaimed, flabbergasted.
"You said ten seconds flat..." Sunset argued.
"Meh...I'm no good with numbers. Still, I didn't know you unicorns could use magic to make stop watches. Maybe you can time some of my other things so I can really see how fast I go. It'd be a fun way to hang out after all." Rainbow Dash said.
"Well...I don't see why not." Twilight said with a smile. Despite the fact that this Pegasus now had a reason to brag about her true speed, Twilight knew she was more of the competitive nature. Rainbow Dash soon flew off.
Sunset and Twilight entered Town Hall.
"So according to my list, the pony in charge of decorations is somepony named Rarity." Twilight said. They soon discovered a white unicorn decorating Town Hall. "Um hi we're here to..." Twilight began.
"Not now dear, I'm in the zone as it were." The white unicorn said before finishing up. "Perfect! Glitter does make everything more glamerous. Rarity you are a genius!" She said before turning to the duo who still had Spike with them. "Now how can I...EEK!" Rarity said upon noticing Sunset Shimmer's mane. "What happened to your mane!?" The white unicorn said.
"Oh...I guess I didn't notice it got messed up from something earlier." Sunset said. "Well we're just here to check on decorations and we'll be out of your hair." She added.
"Out of my hair? WHAT ABOUT YOUR HAIR! No, that simply will not do! I insist you let me fix it for you!" Rarity said before she pulled Sunset with her magic.
"...Might as well let her..." Twilight said soon followed by Spike.
In no time at all Rarity had Sunset's main fixed up.
"Thanks for the assist I guess. I can see why you were put up to decorations." Sunset said and reached into her saddlebags before being stopped by Rarity.
"Oh there's no need to pay me for this. Though if you told me where you two came from, that would be payment enough." Rarity said.
"Well we're from canterlot to..." Twilight began but got cut off by Rarity gasping in shock.
"CANTERLOT?! WHY THAT PLACE IS FILLED WITH GLAMOUR!" Rarity shouted.
"Uh...yeah...about that. After you've been there for as long as the two of us have...it loses it's charm pretty quickly." Sunset said.
"Oh...well I suppose that one who lives there thinks that Ponyville is way to rural for your tastes." Rarity said, hmphing.
"Actually, this place is a nice change of pace. It's got it's charm." Twilight admitted. Rarity smiled.
"Well...I do hope you'll forgive me for thinking the worst of you then." Rarity said. Suddenly a young unicorn filly came in.
"...Wait a second, you have a daughter?!" Sunset exclaimed.
"Ugh...why is it that everyone always thinks that about me?" The unicorn filly asked.
"Beautiful..." Spike said.
"Yes I suppose this place is quite beautiful." Twilight said.
"No not the decor..." Spike said and pointed at the unicorn filly. "I mean her." He said. This caused the unicorn filly to blush.
"Really? You actually think I'm beautiful?" The filly asked.
"Um...this is actually my little sister Sweetie Belle." Rarity said. Sunset raised an eyebrow at that. She could tell there was more to it then that but left it alone.
"Yes...your actually quite lovely." Spike said. This made the filly blush more.
"Well as much as I appreciate you taking an interest in...my little sister...I bet there's more you all need to do. But feel free to stop by anytime." Rarity said. Sunset couldn't help but notice the brief pause Rarity did but was dragged out by Twilight before she could raise any quesitons.
"See you soon Sweetie." Spike called out, clearly head over heels for the young filly.
"...Is it just me or has something just happened that was different from something else?" Sweetie Belle asked no one in particular.
TO BE CONTINUED
Author's Note
So yes, I changed things up here already from the main timeline: Spike isn't in love with Rarity, but rather Sweetie Belle. Yeah I was getting sick of going for the heart break plot when it comes to Spike and Rarity so having Spike fall in love with Sweetie Belle on first sight really helps make this version of the ship seem much more grounded in universe. There's also another reason why I'm doing this, but I won't reveal that until later on in Season 3 of all places.

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   Season 1: Episode 3 - When Friendship Shimmers Part 1   
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Season 1: Episode 3 - When Friendship Shimmers Part 1
"So next up is music...AND SPIKE SNAP OUT OF YOUR LOVE DAZE!" Sunset Shimmer said.
"Sorry. But that Sweetie Belle girl? She was so beautiful. Be honest, do you think I have a chance with her?" Spike asked.
"You might...when we can, I'll see about getting the two of you on a date or two." Twilight said. "I'm sure Celestia would gladly sign off on something like that." She added.
"Well that would actually be a good decision on her part." Sunset said before the duo encountered a yellow pegasus teaching birds to sing. "...Huh..." Sunset said quietly. Suddenly Rainbow Dash showed up again.
"Oh hey it's you two unicorns again." Rainbow Dash said. "I see you've encountered my best friend. Hold up a second..." She said and approached the yellow pegasus gently. "Hey Fluttershy, I'd hate to interrupt but...you got company." Rainbow Dash said.
"Oh?" Fluttershy said and turned towards the two unicorns. "Oh I see. Thank you Rainbow." Fluttershy said.
"Anytime. Gotta run." Rainbow Dash said and flew off without a second thought.
"Best friend?" Sunset Shimmer said. "She must mean more to you then that for you to be so natural around her." She said.
"She knows I don't like being startled. I'm normally shy around new ponies because they tend to sneak up on me." Fluttershy said. "My name's Fluttershy, it's a pleasure to meet you." She added.
"Well I'm Twilight Sparkle and this here is Sunset Shimmer. We were going to check up on the music but from what we were hearing..." Twilight went on.
"Seems like everything is well taken care of. Pretty Quick and easy check if you ask me." Sunset said.
"Well there's no better sounds then those of animals." Fluttershy said. But then she looked at Spike. "...What is that? A Lizard?" Fluttershy asked.
"Oh Spike? He's a baby dragon." Twilight said.
"DRAGON?!" Fluttershy exclaimed.
"WHOA WHOA WHOA! CLAM DOWN! CALM DOWN!" Sunset Shimmer said, and soon began holding Fluttershy. "It's okay, Spike is a good dragon." Sunset said.
"Oh...I see. Sorry. I've encountered dragons before, and none of them have been very nice at all." Fluttershy said.
"Am I...really the only nice dragon around?" Spike asked.
"Seems likely, yes." Fluttershy said.
"I see..." Spike said with a dishearted look on his face.
"Oh! I didn't mean it like that. It's great your a nice dragon." Fluttershy said. "Please, tell me everything you can about yourself." Fluttershy begged.
"Well...okay." Spike said.
Later, with Fluttershy, the group made it to the library.
"...And that covers everything." Spike said.
"Thank you for telling me this. Your not a bad dragon at all. In fact, your a rather nice dragon." Fluttershy said and then pet spike. "I really wish more dragons were like you." The pegasus added.
"Well this is our stop. We should probably go inside now." Sunset said. She, Twilight, and Spike went inside but found the place dark.
"What's up with the lights?" Twilight said before suddenly the lights turned on and that's when the trio realized the treehouse wasn't empty.
"SURPRISE!" Everypony there said at once. Suddenly the pink mare from earlier showed up.
"So, what do you think? Were you surprised, were you?" The Pink mare said.
"VERY surprised; how long were you planning on doing this?" Sunset asked.
"Well you remember when you encountered me on the streets and I let out a gasp like..." The Pink Mare said before giving out a giant gasp. "Well that's when I realized I had never seen you before in ponyville, and I know that because I know everypony there is to know in ponyville, and since you must be new that means you must not have any friends so I made this party just for the two of you!" The Pink mare said. The two unicorns plus dragon noticed the others they encountered were there too. Though Fluttershy seemed to have been just dragged in.
"Listen, take it from me you two, you don't want to question Pinkie Pie." Rainbow Dash said.
"Good piece of advice for the future I guess..." Twilight said. The party was soon underway.
"Twilight, I know that look. Let's say that prophecy does come true...we can deal with it if it does. As much as I question Princess Celestia's choices sometimes, I know she wouldn't emphasize something like making friends without a reason." Sunset said.
"I suppose your right." Twilight said, smiling and enjoyed the party.
A bit later, everyone was moving to Town hall for the ceremony.
"Sunset, remind me to hire Pinkie Pie for Moondancer's next party. I think she'd enjoy it." Twilight said.
"I thought the same thing." Sunset said.
"Party? Someone say something about a party?" Pinkie Pie said, showing up next to the two unicorns plus dragon. "Don't worry, if you ever need somepony to throw a party, I'm the one to go to!" Pinkie Pie said.
"Right..." Sunset said. The event went underway, but when Celestia was meant to come out...
"SHE'S GONE!" Rarity yelled out. Suddenly Nightmare Moon showed up.
"! Fuck..." Sunset said. Twilight shot her surrogate big sister a look that said "I told you so".
"Do any of you know who I am?" Nightmare Moon asked. "I am Nightmare Moon...and now the night shall last forever!" Nightmare moon said before giving out an evil laugh and then fled.
The two unicorn surrogate sisters and spike left the building, heading for the library.
"Where are those two going?" Rainbow Dash asked, quickly following the duo.
"Elements Elements Elements..." Twilight said searching as Sunset tucked Spike into bed.
"As much as I don't want to admit it, Twilight...you were right to worry about Nightmare Moon's return." Sunset said.
"What's this about Nightmare Moon's return?" Rainbow Dash said, suddenly in Sunset's face. "Are you spies?!" She questioned.
"Settle down there Rainbow." Applejack said pulling the rainbow themed pegasus back. "They may not be spies, but they sure know what's going on..." The farm pony said turning to Twilight. "Ah'm right, aren't I?" She asked.
"Before arriving here, I read all about Nightmare Moon's return. The only way to stop her are something called the Elements of Harmony. But I've looked everywhere and I can't find a single book on the subject." Twilight said.
"Elements of Harmony, a refrence guide!" Pinkie Pie said before being pulled away by Twilight who grabbed the book she was looking at.
"How the hay did you find that?" Twilight asked.
"It was under E!" Pinkie Pie said, bouncing around the room. Twilight rolled her eyes and started reading.
"There are seven elements of harmony, but only six are known. The ones that are known are Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Loyalty, and Empathy. The seventh is a complete mystery but is known to show up when a spark ignites amongst the others. It is said that the location of the elements rests in the ruined castle of the two sisters which is located in what is now..." Twilight read before a screen transition happened.
"THE EVERFREE FOREST?!" The seven Ponies exclaimed. Suddenly Pinkie Pie had popcorn.
"Trust me, you don't wanna miss what's next." Pinkie Pie asked, smiling. But where she was looking was at the fourth wall.
Author's Note
Yeah I don't know why they didn't do this with the first season premier and have Pinkie Pie break the fourth wall in both parts. So I fixed that for you all. Your welcome internet.

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   Season 1: Episode 4 - When Friendship Shimmers Part 2   
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Season 1: Episode 4 - When Friendship Shimmers Part 2
"So what we need to defeat Nightmare Moon is at the castle here huh? Let's get going then." Rainbow Dash.
"As much as we would appreciate your help..." Sunset began before suddenly being elbowed by Twilight. "Ow!" She said.
"Sunset, I get that it'll be dangerous in there. But that's all the more reason why they should come." Twilight said. "The more that come, the more skills we'll have at our disposal, and thus the more likely we'll be to find the castle." She added.
"I...your right..." Sunset said before smirking and closing her eyes before shaking your head. "You've come a long way form the unicorn filly I became the surrogate big sister to when we first met you know that right?" Sunset asked.
"Couldn't have made it this far myself." Twilight said, pulling Sunset into a sisterly hug.
"Well isn't that just the darnest thing you ever done seen..." Applejack said. But she noticed Rainbow Dash had shed a tear at the sight. She said nothing.
Geez...I really hope I can bring myself to tell a certain pony who they are to me. Rainbow Dash thought to herself as the group headed into the forest.
"Well I'll give you this: This forest is defiantly a lot better with so many ponies with us. Kind of takes away the spooky factor when there's this many of us." Sunset said. "At least, to a degree. Thank god for light spells." She added before lighting her horn but was stopped by Twilight.
"Wait Sunset!" Twilight said. "I appreciate your concern for everypony else, but you should probably save your mana for Nightmare Moon." She said.
"She's not wrong sugarcube." Applejack said. "If Nightmare Moon was able to overpower celestia, yer gonna need to conserve your strength there." She added.
"But...what about you all being able to see?" Sunset asked.
"Listen to me, for what I'm about to tell you is the honest truth: Save your mana for Nightmare Moon in case we end up having to fight her head on." Applejack said. Sunset nodded but noticed something...odd about that.
Applejack is quite honest...and she was super honest just then. I wonder... Sunset said. A bit later, the group soon encountered a manticore. "Gah! A Manticore?!" Sunset exclaimed.
"Let me guess, book?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Actually, I once lived in a town that got hit by a monster at least once a week before I moved to Canterlot to become one of Princess Celestia's students." Sunset explained. "So while I was in canterlot, I did a lot of research on some of the monsters I saw when I was in my old town." She continued.
"I guess that would be fair. Gotta know something right to know how to beat it huh?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Wait! Don't hurt it!" Fluttershy said but then went up to the manticore.
"...Has that mare gone crazy?" Twilight asked but then Fluttershy removed a thorn and the manticore was as tame as a housecat. "...Then again, maybe she hasn't gone crazy." Twilight said.
"So how did you know about the thorn?" Sunset asked Fluttershy.
"I didn't. Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness." Fluttershy said. That caught Sunset off guard again.
There it is again...what are the odds? Sunset thought. But noticed Rarity looked...uncomfortable being here. "Hey Rarity, need a little help? Here..." Sunset said before helping Rarity be more comfortable with a minor light spell. Enough to not cost a whole lot of mana.
"Th-thank you so much Sunset." Rarity said.
"It's nothing really. I was quite afraid of dark places once upon a time too. So I can really emphasize with you." Sunset said. Suddenly Twilight screamed. "What? I'm helping Rari--" But then Sunset noticed the trees had some scary faces on them.
But that was before Pinkie Pie sang a song and got everyone to laugh away the scary faces on the trees.
The group soon came across a wild river.
"Welp...what now?" Sunset asked. But she heard someone crying nearby. "Wait what's that?" She asked.
"Oh what a world! My glorious mustache is ruined!" A surpent said.
"All this for a mustache?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"ARE YOU INSANE?!" Rarity exclaimed. "Just look at this poor fellow. Your beautiful purple scales..." She said.
"Oh I know..." The surpent agreed.
"Your lovely eyes and well crafted mane..." Rarity said.
"Oh I know I know..." The surpent agreed.
"All ruined because your mustache has been unfairly trimmed!" Rarity stated.
"It's true! I'm hidous!" The Surpent shouted.
"Well I simply won't stand for this!" Rarity then proceeded to use one of the serpent's scales to cut her tail and used it to fix the mustache.
"Wow...that was generous of you. But...aren't you worried about your tail?" Twilight asked.
"Short tails are in this season. Besides, it'll grow back." Rarity said.
"So would the mustache." Rainbow Dash muttered to Sunset. But Sunset was focused on something else.
And that makes generosity...what's with all these coincidences? Sunset asked.
"Hey Sunset, I hate to to break your train of thought but we're running out of time!" Pinkie Pie said. And then she looked towards the fourth wall. "...In more ways then one. Don't anybody go anywhere okay?" Pinkie Pie asked.
Author's Note
More forth wall breaking by Pinkie Pie. Sorry, I HAD to make this event into three chapters otherwise this chapter would've run into the two thousand word mark, and with the climax of this coming up, it'd be best for me to call it here so I don't exceed my 1500 word limit because if I continued past this part with the serpent known as Steve Magnes thanks to the episode "Spice of Life" then I'd easily reach two thousand words; 2500 tops. This is because I don't like breaking up climaxes so your getting a three part event instead.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
   Season 1: Episode 5 - When Friendship Shimmers Part 3   
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 1: Episode 5 - When Friendship Shimmers Part 3
Previously, Twilight & Sunset were joined in the everfree forest by Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. As they progressed, first Applejack showed her honest nature by telling Sunset to save her mana as much as she could in case they have to outright fight nightmare moon. Second, Fluttershy showed kindess towards a manticore who had a thorn in one of it's paws. As the trees became dense, emphasizing with Rarity being afraid of the dark, Sunset did a small light spell that wouldn't waste too much mana too quickly. This lead to the group discovering the trees had scary faces on them which Pinkie Pie sang a song about laughing away fears. After this, Rarity generiously sacrificed her own tail to fix a sea serpent's mustache. Now the group is approuching the Castle of the Two Sisters but...
"What the heck...the bridge is out!" Sunset observed.
"No worries you guys. I'll go over and fix it." Rainbow Dash said and flew over. Nightmare moon conjured up a group of Shadowbolts to try and tempt Rainbow Dash, which looked like it was working, but Rainbow Dash's loyalty to her friends came first to her.
And that would make loyalty. That's five of the seven elements. Makes me wonder about that Empathy one. Sunset thought to herself. The group soon found the elements, but there were only six out of seven.
"There's only six here, so where's the seventh?" Fluttershy asked.
"Didja forget? Twilight read that the seventh would only appear once a spark unites the others." Rainbow Dash said. "Now what that means I have no idea." She added.
"I'm going to try something." Twilight said and began trying to use a spell on the elements.
"Should we leave her to this?" Applejack asked Sunset.
"We should stick around, just in case Nightmare Moon shows up." Sunset said. As if on cue, that's exactly what happened. "OH COME ON!" Sunset said. Nightmare moon proceeded to steal the elements, and twilight with them. "TWILIGHT!" Sunset said. NO! NOT AGAIN! I WON'T LET SOMEONE ELSE VANISH BECAUSE OF ME! Sunset thought to herself.
"Sunset, look!" Pinkie Pie said, directing Sunset's attention to another part of the castle where light was shining into.
"! Good catch Pinkie Pie. C'mon let's go." Sunset said. Hold on L.S.B.F.F., I'm coming. I won't let you suffer the same fate as my little brother! She thought to herself as she and the elements rushed over to the spot where Twilight was trying to face off against Nightmare Moon. "TWILIGHT, DON'T GIVE UP!" Sunset yelled out as the group was almost there. Twilight eyes went wide as she realized something.
"Nightmare Moon...you really think you can destroy the elements just like that?!" Twilight exclaimed. Suddenly the others burst onto the scene. "Well I'm afraid you'll have to rethink that, because the ponies who represent them are right here!" Twilight said. "Applejack, who told the truth that we might have to fight you to Sunset represents the element of Honesty. Fluttershy who tamed the manticore by removing a thorn in it's paw represents the element of kindness. Sunset Shimmer who was once afraid of the dark, comforted Rarity by using a minor light spell to light the way represents the element of Empathy." Twilight began to explain as the broken pieces of the elements rushed over to her friends.
! I'm the element of Empathy?! Well...now that she brings it up...I guess I am. Sunset said.
"Sunset also showed empathy towards me my entire life by becoming my surrogate big sister. Pinkie Pie who managed to encourage us to laugh away our fears represents the element of Laughter. Lastly, Rainbow Dash who refused to let her own desires come before her friends represents the element of Loyalty." Twilight said.
"But you still don't have the seventh element; the spark didn't work!" Nightmare Moon countered.
"But it did. A different kind of spark. I realized it once everyone came to my aid. Because I realized now that they are my friends!" Twilight said. Suddenly the final element appeared. "You see, when those seven are united by the spark, it creates the seventh element, the ELEMENT OF MAGIC!" Twilight said. Suddenly the broken pieces of the other elements forged themselves into necklaces for Appledash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. For Sunset however, hers was forged into a crown as Twilight's element also was transformed into a crown before Nightmare Moon was hit with a rainbow laser.
A bit later, the seven mares woke up.
"My tail is back to normal!" Rarity exclaimed.
"Oh Rarity, it's lovely." Fluttershy said.
"I know! I'll never part with it again." Rarity said.
"No your necklace, it looks like your cutie mark." Fluttershy said.
"Oh?" Rarity noticed this. "So does yours." She pointed out. Everyone noticed this too.
"Gee Twilght, ah thought ya were just spouting nonsense, but ah guess we really do represent the elements." Applejack said.
"Indeed you do." A voice said. Suddenly Princess Celestia appeared as the sun rose and the moon set once more.
"Princess Celestia!" Twilight called out as everyone but her and Sunset bowed.
"Good job my two students. You managed to defeat nightmare moon with the help of the elements and your new friends." Celestia said.
"Speaking of...what happened with Nightmare Moon anyways?" Sunset said, looking towards the remains, seeing a strange younger alicorn there instead of Nightmare Moon.
"She was restored back to the way she used to be thanks to your new friendships. Now if only she would accept mine." Celestia said and approuched the other alicorn. "Luna, it's been one thousand years since I've seen you like this. We were meant to rule together, my sister." Celestia said.
"SISTER!?" Sunset exclaimed.
"Kind of obvious when you know that so called mare's tale. I already deduced that Nightmare Moon had to be Celestia's sister." Twilight said. "I think our use of the elements restored her back to the way she was before she let jealousy overwelm her and turn her into Nightmare Moon." Twilight explained.
"But...she's Celestia's own sister!" Sunset countered. "Why would Celestia banish her own sister?" She asked.
"I think I know...the elements must only be able to do what the wielders want. And we wanted to defeat Nightmare Moon, not banish her. Celestia must have thought irrationally one thousand years ago and this lead to her banishing her own sister." Twilight said.
"You are correct Twilight. I knew you would understand. That's why I wanted you and Sunset to make friends, because with that friendship, you could do what I could not and save my sister." Celestia said. "I was unable to do so on my own...so I secretly entrusted the task to you and Sunset, knowing full well you would not make the same mistake I did." She added.
"Normally I'd critisize that decision but I guess I can't do so. Not like this." Sunset said. "Now if only we could find my brother..." Sunset said.
"Hey Sunset...do you think we should move here to Ponyville?" Twilight asked.
"Why?" Sunset said. Then she realized it. "Oh...that's why. That sounds like a good idea but what about you, Princess Celestia?" Sunset asked. "Would you allow us to move here to Ponyville?" She asked.
"I was planning on letting you two live here anyways so long as you two continue to learn about friendship." Celestia said.
"We'll do our best on that front. Right B.S.B.F.F.?" Twilight asked.
"You bet, L.S.B.F.F.!" Sunset said. And the two surrogate sisters hoof-bumped each other. Brother, wherever you are, I hope you can wait a bit longer. While I stay here in Ponyville, I will not only learn more about friendship, I will also continue my never ending search for you. I will find you, and I will finally bring our mother the closure she needs. Sunset thought to herself.
Who was Sunset's brother anyways? This mystery will remain as such for quite some time...

//-------------------------------------------------------//
          Season 1: Episode 6 - Tale of a Brother          
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 1: Episode 6 - Tale of a Brother
It was a seemingly normal day, but in one house in canterlot, there was a lot being moved.
"Thanks for agreeing to help us both pack." Twilight told the five new friends she and Sunset made in Ponyville.
"Ain't no problem Twilight; after all, what are friends for?" Applejack asked.
"I'm just glad the books here are so light. I'm not a very strong Pegasus." Fluttershy said.
"The way I see it, we all have things we're good at and things we don't do so well in." Sunset said. "It's that balance of knowing when to call for help that lets you know when it's time to rely on your friends." She added.
"No offense Sunset, but Twilight's collection of books is MUCH bigger." Pinkie Pie said.
"Actually, some of these I'm leaving behind. Moondancer said she'd love to read these and I'm giving this place to her." Twilight said.
"How generous of you Twilight. Why, I'm surprised you didn't end up as generosity." Rarity said.
"I may not be as smart as Twilight, but considering you put gems on your clothes, I hardly see this as more generous." Rainbow Dash said.
"Everyone can express parts of the seven elements, but Rarity cranks it up to an eleven." Twilight explained. "It's why you, Rainbow Dash, are the element of Loyalty. Sure you can be honest and Applejack is very loyal to her family, but loyalty is more about loyalty to both friends and family alike while honesty is about telling the truth and spotting lies." She explained.
"I think your loosing her little sis. What Twilight means Rainbow Dash, is that yes, we can be exhibit the other elements at times, but there's one particular element we express more of in our day to day life then the rest." Sunset said.
"...Yeah uh...Twilight, no offense, but Sunset is much better at this summery thing then you are." Rainbow Dash said. Sunset rolled her eyes.
"I always have to summerize the things Twilight says. She can say things that'll fly over anypony's head, not just yours Rainbow." Sunset said.
"Well you did become her surrogate big sister Sunset." Applejack said. "But ah couldn't help but hear that you said something about a brother?" She asked.
"Oh right. That. I suppose I might as well tell you all if we're going to be friends from here on out." Sunset said. "See, I have a mother who doesn't live in Canterlot; in fact I originate from a town that gets a lot of monster attacks daily; and I also have a brother. Once I was of age and had a cutie mark, my mother sent me off to Celestia's School where I proceeded to become the Princess's first student. A month later, my brother gets his cutie mark and soon joins me but not as Celestia's second student. Things were going well, but my brother struggled with the material. I was going to help him after the mid-term exam that was coming up. See, until after the mid-term exam, a rule of the school is that your unable to write home to anyone you want to. You can only write home after the mid-term exam regardless if you pass or fail. But with how much my brother was struggling, he was bound to fail." Sunset said.
"Wait, what's so bad about failing the mid-term?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"If you fail the midterm, your put into a magic training school; essentially being downgraded. Two months into that school, your given another test where failure means getting kicked out of the program entirely. If you manage to pass, you are put back into the main course in the school for gifted unicorns." Sunset said. "To date, only three unicorns have ever failed the training school test; those that do essentially bring shame to their entire family by proxy." She added.
"Oof...that's a bit harsh don't you think?" Rarity asked.
"Harsh but understandable; if these rules weren't in place, then the school wouldn't be so prestige." Twilight said. "Of course, my family lived in Canterlot, so I never had to worry about the letter issue." She added.
"So, did your brother fail the training school test then and vanish as a result?" Fluttershy asked.
"It's worse then that I'm afraid: On the day of the midterm test; two weeks before I met Twilight in fact; my brother didn't show up. The midterm rules state that all current students that have not taken the mid-term test must be present before the test can be given. So I offered to help out with the search since I knew exactly which dorm room my brother used. But when I went to his room, I found it completly trashed and my brother missing. The entire day was then spent searching for him, but we never found him that day. My brother has been missing ever since then, and it's taken it's toll on my mother." Sunset suddenly had tears in her eyes. "The...the last time I saw my mother...which was five weeks after I met Twilight...she looked like she hadn't been eating for months. I had to pratically force feed her. I know it wasn't kind of me to do that, but she was going to die if I did nothing. I've since asked Celestia to move her to Canterlot and asked her to keep an eye on her so that that doesn't happen again." Sunset explained through her tears.
"Talk about a downer..." Pinkie Pie said.
"That's why I'm hoping one day I'll find my brother somewhere. Even if it means my search turns up his dead body, at least then my mother will have closure. I have to find my brother somehow, if not for my sake, then for my mother's." Sunset said. Twilight gave Sunset a hug.
"I'll do my part to help you Sunset. You've helped me so much in being a big sister figure to me. Now, it's my turn to help you." Twilight said.
"Hey, I'm the current head of the weather factory at cloudsdale; I think I can ask the folks who go there to keep an eye out for your brother." Rainbow Dash said.
"And the Apple family is spread out all over equestria; maybe one of ma kin has seen him." Applejack said.
"Thanks you gals..." Sunset said and then took out a photo. "This is the only photo I have of him on hand." Sunset said. It showed Sunset together with an orange unicorn colt with Sunset clearly being older.
"Huh...he looks like a male version of you Sunset but younger." Rarity said.
"I don't know why my brother and I look so similar. Mother jokes it's because father was also orange like the rest of us. Still, while he's going to be older then this, because he looks so similar to me, I don't expect it'll be tough to pick him out." Sunset said. "I'd tell you his name, but I'd rather save that for when we find him." She added.
"So you can introduce us to him right?" Pinkie Pie asked.
"Yes. That way he'd know about all those that kept me on the search for him." Sunset said.
"We'll do our best then. For your mother." Fluttershy said.
Author's Note
What did you think I was going to reveal her brother's name and cutie mark in this chapter? No I'm keeping that stuff vague on purpose because it'll be important later.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Season 1: Episode 7 - Unintentional Problems        
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 1: Episode 7 - Unintentional Problems
"I see. Thanks anyways." Sunset said. She was talking with Bon Bon.
"Yeah sorry. Wish I could help Sunset. But if I do hear something from someone who comes from out of town, I'll let you know." Bon Bon said.
"I just really wish I'd find some clue or hint or something." Sunset said.
"Well a lot of people come through Ponyville. Who knows; someone could've heard something or seen your brother." Bon Bon said.
"Well thanks Bon Bon." Sunset said. Suddenly there was a bit of an earthquake.
"What the heck?" Sunset asked.
"STAMPEDE!" Rainbow Dash yelled out from in the air. Soon enough though, the stampede was calmed down by Applejack.
"That was too close." Sunset said. Twilight was soon out and about.
"What happened?" Twilight asked.
"A stampede almost flattened ponyville but Applejack got it to stop." Rainbow Dash Relayed.
"You really should spend some time outside every now and then Twilight." Sunset said.
"Well...I guess I could. And I'm gonna need to for a bit because I think we should thank Applejack for this." Twilight said.
"Classic Twilight...you do always like to thank those who do good things." Sunset said.
"My philosophy is always that you should thank people for the things they do good." Twilight said.
"That's a fair point." Sunset said. "But let's not go overboard with the thanking okay? Maybe just get her a gift to give to her at Sweet Apple Acres in a bit." She added.
"Classic Sunset. And yeah, let's not overhelm her." Twilight said.
A bit later, Twilight and Sunset were at Sweet Apple Acres, Twilight having a cake from Sugercube Corner made specifically for Applejack. But when they got there, Sunset noticed Applejack was bucking the trees.
"Um...Applejack...if you don't mind me asking here: What exactly are you doing?" Sunset asked.
"It's Applebucking Season." Applejack said.
"Apple what now?" Twilight asked.
"Applebucking Season. It's what the apple family calls harvesting." Applejack said.
“Where’s Big Mac?” Sunset asked.
“He broke his hip a few days ago. So I’m on my own with how old Granny’s getting.” Applejack said.
“Would you like some help?” Twilight asked.
“Help? Ah don’t need no help.” Applejack said.
“That’s a double negative.” Sunset said. “But I get what you mean. Just so long as you don’t start causing problems.” She added.
“Glad you understand Sunset.” Applejack said.
“I mean it Applejack: I don’t want to start having a pool of complaints lodged against you.” Sunset said. “We have a cake for you. And this better be the only thing I come here for.” Sunset said.
“How much a big sister need do you have?” Applejack said. Suddenly she was glared at by Sunset.
“That…was uncalled for.” Sunset said. “Strike one, Applejack. Strike one.” She said.
Later, Sunset found Twilight reading a book about farm work and balancing task tips.
“What are you reading that for?” Sunset asked.
“Something to tell Applejack a bit later.” Twilight said.
“Why’s that?” Sunset asked. Twilight pointed to Rainbow Dash on her bed getting first aid from Spike.
“Applejack caused this.” The Pegasus said.
“This was a one time thing, right?” Sunset asked. Suddenly a nurse from the hospital came in.
“Twilight, we need you at the hospital!” The nurse said.
At the hospital the two unicorns and dragon found a lot of sick ponies.
“There was something wrong with the baked goods.” The nurse said.
“Not baked goods…” Pinkie was there too. “Baked Bads!” She added.
“Applejack…” Sunset said.
Sunset found Applejack in the air because her cart tipped over.
“Applejack, I told you not to cause problems. Rainbow Dash was injured somehow, and ponies are sick at the hospital.” Sunset said.
“Thought you said you got it…” Applejack said.
“Look when one of my friends starts causing problems, I have to start getting involved. So this better be the only other time I come here.” Sunset said and turned to leave. “Strike Two Applejack.” Sunset said and left.
“So…” Sunset was talking with Octavia who was with Vinyl Scratch. The later having headphones on. “The unicorn is mute and yet she’s a great musician.” Sunset said.
“Yes. Most know her as DJ-PON3 though.” Octavia said. Suddenly the ground shook.
“What the heck? Another stampede?!” Sunset said. Outside was just a bunch of rabbits eating flowers and veggies and Fluttershy trying to rally the rabbits. Twilight helping. “Okay, enough is enough.” Sunset said.
Sunset found Applejack doing her harvesting again.
“Thought I made this clear: If you started causing problems I would intervene. Well strike three Applejack. You caused Rainbow Dash to get injured, a bunch of ponies to get sick, and caused a bunch of bunnies to ruin the town’s flowers and veggies.” Sunset said. Applejack got the apple tree bare.
“Ah did it…I harvested every apple tree here. All by myself. How do you like dem apples?” Applejack asked. Big Mac was there.
“Uh…how do YOU like THEM apples?” Big Mac said. Sunset and Applejack followed his eyes to a bunch more apple trees yet to be harvested.
“Where did all the apples…?” Applejack asked before fainting. She would wake up a bit later to Sunset over her.
“Look, I know a thing or two about pride, but you need help. Maybe just once you can set aside your pride and let your friends help you.” Sunset said.
“I…okay Sunset. You and the girls can help me…” Applejack said.
“Glad we got that out of the way.” Sunset said.
“And ah’m sorry I brought up the big sister thing.” Applejack said.
“It’s fine. I can come across like that at times. Being a big sister to Twilight has brought that out of me I guess.” Sunset said. Both of them actually laughed at this.
Dear Princess Celestia,
Applejack is always quite eager to help others out, but she can have trouble accepting help from others. It’s an important thing to let your friends help where they can. And Applejack has learnt this friendship lesson well.
Your faithful student, Sunset Shimmer.
Author's Note
Yeah I couldn't resist including Sunset in an episode that showcases how stubborn Applejack is early on. This also gave me the excuse to start including side characters into this series. After all, the first few seasons of this story are focused on Sunset's mission to find her brother. What better way to give some of the side characters more screen time?

//-------------------------------------------------------//
           Season 1: Episode 8 - Pink Randomness           
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 1: Episode 8 - Pink Randomness
https://camo.fimfiction.net/b-9MWmlRJVz9xW2fclRpNQN8bLgkmNWCqJIcL6yjml8?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com%2Ff%2F4334d39f-7a1e-4655-9a3b-c281a46d0bf7%2Fd47w5y8-ea15bcfc-a9e8-4961-a70d-de85283dee63.png%3Ftoken%3DeyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJpc3MiOiJ1cm46YXBwOjdlMGQxODg5ODIyNjQzNzNhNWYwZDQxNWVhMGQyNmUwIiwic3ViIjoidXJuOmFwcDo3ZTBkMTg4OTgyMjY0MzczYTVmMGQ0MTVlYTBkMjZlMCIsImF1ZCI6WyJ1cm46c2VydmljZTpmaWxlLmRvd25sb2FkIl0sIm9iaiI6W1t7InBhdGgiOiIvZi80MzM0ZDM5Zi03YTFlLTQ2NTUtOWEzYi1jMjgxYTQ2ZDBiZjcvZDQ3dzV5OC1lYTE1YmNmYy1hOWU4LTQ5NjEtYTcwZC1kZTg1MjgzZGVlNjMucG5nIn1dXX0.1mJa9Fbm-JFTPoj9lydWdhUYC8IJ6MZZuPw5HJ8ZqV8
"Hey look everyone, it's an episode concerning me, Pinkie Pie. Better sit down for some of my wacky randomness. I got that right, didn't I?" Pinkie Pie asked someone offscreen after tearing through the pages of the story.
Yes Pinkie. You did.
"Ookie Dookie Lookie." Pinkie Pie said before going back into the pages of the story.
Sunset Shimmer was enjoying a nice day outside in Ponyville when suddenly a flower pot hit her on the head from above.
"Ow..." Sunset said and then looked up.
"Sorry Sunset." Lyra said. "I was cleaning my windowsill when I accidently knocked a flower pot off of it." She added.
"Kind of not a good idea to put flower pots up there, huh?" Sunset asked.
"Now that you mention it...WHAT WAS I THINKING?!" Lyra said and started putting her flower pots into her house. Sunset just shook her head.
"How you are holding up here anyways in Ponyville?" Sunset asked.
"Doing okay. I really want to hang out with Bon Bon later today so I'll go see if she'll be available in a bit." Lyra said.
"Yeah you do that." Sunset said, smiling. Suddenly she spotted something out of the corner of her eye. Wait...was that Celestia that just took a letter from Spike personally and then flew back to canterlot?! "What the heck was that about?" Sunset asked. She then noticed not just Pinkie Pie but also Twilight. And both were wearing Umbrella hats. "Okay...I know you can be random Pinkie Pie but...this? What ever happened to cause this?" Sunset asked.
"Well a few days ago Twilight was studying my Pinkie Sense as you know, so she tried to figure it out, and eventually just decided to roll with it." Pinkie Pie said.
"Yeah...let's go with that and say nothing of the many, many injuries I substained during that time." Twilight said.
"Was wondering why you kept coming back with more and more injuries." Sunset said. "Still, I'm surprised your just going along with this now." She added.
"What else can I do? And don't even try to start." Twilight argued. Suddenly Pinkie's tail started twitching.
"My tail is twitching, my tail is twitching!" Pinkie said.
"...What?" Sunset asked. Suddenly another Flower Pot hit her on the head. "Ow..." Sunset said.
"Whoops! My bad again." Lyra said. She was still getting her flower pots back indoors.
"Might want to start wearing one of these." Twilight said, pointing to her umbrella hat.
"...Seriously? I'm going to need a run down of why your suddenly so on board with this." Sunset asked.
Several Hours later...
"...What?" Was all Sunset could say after the full explanation. "And now your just going to drop it all together?" Sunset asked.
"It's either that or I'll just keep driving myself crazy. And I'd rather not do that anymore." Twilight said. "Had enough of it as it is." She added. Sunset felt her eye beginning to twitch but shook it off.
"Guess your getting more mature with each friendship lesson that you learn." Sunset said.
"My ears are flopping, my ears are flopping!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Twilight quickly was looking around but didn't catch it in time for Sunset to suddenly get covered in mud.
"...Ew ew ew ew ew ew ew ew ew EW!" Sunset said, trying to shake off all the mud.
"I'll start a bath for you..." Pinkie Pie said.
Sunset was drying herself off after having taking a bath made by Pinkie Pie.
"Welcome to what I went through, Sunset." Twilight said. "And before you even try to argue with Pinkie Pie, I'm just going to stop you right there and tell you to not even bother. Trust me on this one. You'll save yourself from going through what I did. Kind of had to learnt the hard way to just take what Pinkie Pie is doing at face value." She added.
"Says the one who always tries to find science behind everything." Sunset argued. "I'm not the sort of person who needs to find meaning behind every single little thing. That's more your thing and not mine." She added.
"While that may be true Sunset, this one was one where it's better that I shouldn't have tried in the first place." Twilight said. "Though it was something I did need to learn, even if it was the hard way." She added with a smirk.
"You two bounce off each other quite a bit. It's neato." Pinkie Pie said. "But if you were to ask anyone in Ponyville about my Pinkie Sense, they would all tell you the same thing Twilight had to learn: That it's better not to even try to understand my Pinkie Sense. Heck, even I don't know why I have it." She explained.
"And you never even wanted to find out?" Sunset asked.
"Nopey doodle scoodle~" Pinkie Pie said.
"That's new..." Sunset mumbled. "Well even if you don't want to find out, I think I should at least try to myself." Sunset said.
"...Your going to regret that later." Twilight admitted.
Throughout the next couple of days, Sunset ended up going through some of the same motions as Twilight did and even got injured quite a few times with Twilight telling Sunset several times to just let it go.
Which after an incident where a rainbow just graced the skies, Sunset decided to just hang her head in defeat. There's no reasonable source that Pinkie Pie's Pinkie Sense could from.
Dear Princess Celestia,
As Twilight no doubt has probably written to you, there are just some things about your friends that you have to take at face value.
And while our friend Pinkie Pie has one of the weirdest quirks I think I've ever seen a pony have, sometimes it's best not to even bother with where those quirks may come from. After all, each person's quirks is a part of who they are as a pony and that just makes each of us special.
As such, something I know I learned about friendship, is that sometimes you have to accept those quirks as part of your friends, and try not to question where they come from.
From your first student, Sunset Shimmer.
MEANWHILE...
Far away, in a mysterious land, a single unicorn mare was reading several books.
"Just need a bit more magical knowledge, and then, I can finally create a Cutie Markless Equestria!" The Unicorn Mare said. "Cutie Marks will no longer be a thing, and I'll finally be able to be together with Sunburst once more!" She added.
Author's Note
Wait what's this? Who is this mysterious Unicorn Mare? And more importantly, who is this "Sunburst" She speaks of? More mysteries plague this story by the moment...

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      Flashback: Memories of a Brother 1 - Glim-Glam       
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Flashback: Memories of a Brother 1 - Glim-Glam
As Sunset began to turn in for the night after the Pinkie Sense incident, Sunset was looking out the window at the night sky. Twilight and Spike were both fast asleep.
"...Brother, wherever you are, I will find you. No matter if your alive or dead, I will find you. For our mother. And then maybe you can finally tell me more about this 'Glim-Glam' you kept mentioning while you were at Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns with me." Sunset said. "Because now I'm beginning to think, that it wasn't some toy you kept talking about. It had to be an actual Pony. I only wish I hadn't kept telling you to get over a toy. Maybe then you'd still be here." She added said.
Sunset began to think back to a time of one of their many fights over what her brother was calling 'Glim-Glam'.
Three Weeks before Sunset's Brother disappeared
It was one of the weekends when Sunset decided to enter her brother's room, and that's when he heard him say something.
"Oh. It's you sister." Her brother said. "What's up?" He asked.
"What's up with me? What's up with you?! I can't help but be concerned for you when you've been growing further and further away from me." Sunset said.
"Well I never wanted to come here! Not without Glim-Glam!" Her Brother said. Sunset glared at her brother.
"How many times do I need to drill this into your head brother of mine? Get over your silly little toy." Sunset said. "Your a growing pony, you don't need toys anymore." She added.
"And how many times do I need to tell you that Glim-Glam is not a toy! Glim-Glam is my best friend and I want to go back home to see her. Like now!" Her Brother practically snapped at her. Sunset felt her anger reaching a boiling point.
"SUNBURST, YOU KNOW THE RULES HERE!" Sunset said. "And don't make me have to tell mom when I can send letters to her that you were flunking your studies on purpose just because of some toy you forgot to pack!" Sunset said.
"UGH! YOUR NOT LISTENING TO ME!" Sunburst said and suddenly forced his sister out of his room and shut it. Sunburst proceeded to lock his door. "Why...why did my family force me to leave my best friend? I want to see her again...but at the rate things are going...I may never see her again..." Sunburst said as he began to cry. "Glim-glam, if I ever do see you again, I want you to know that I still consider you my best friend in the whole wide world..." He added as the tears fell.
Outside, Sunset heard her brother weep.
"...Geez. All this over a toy." Sunset said.
Present Day...
"The more and more I think about that day when I heard you say 'Glim-Glam, if I ever do see you again, I want you to know that I still consider you my best friend in the whole wide world.' while you cried your eyes out, the more and more I think I'm starting to realize, that I was wrong about what you were calling Glim-Glam or more specifically, who you were calling Glim-Glam." Sunset said. "Well Sunburst, my dear brother, if I do ever come across the one you were calling Glim-Glam, I'll be sure to tell them what I heard you say: You still consider her your best friend in the whole wide world." She added before finally heading to bed. "I only wish you had told me an actual name though." Sunset briefly stated before she fell asleep.
Author's Note
*GASP* A Flashback Episode?! In one of my stories?! Say it ain't so! Well it is so. First off, the whole nickname of "Glim-Glam" comes from Ablegabriel - Fimfiction (https://www.fimfiction.net/user/341159/Ablegabriel) and their story of "Thank you Mistress" which you can find here: Thank You, Mistress - Fimfiction (https://www.fimfiction.net/story/431258/thank-you-mistress)  
And it seems we finally have the name of Sunset's Brother: Sunburst. So what is his connection to the unicorn mare that hates cutie marks? And who really is this "Glim-Glam" that he speaks of? Tune in for more next time.

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           Season 1: Episode 9 - Without a Mark            
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Season 1: Episode 9 - Without a Mark
"As you can tell from my daughter's lack of a cutie mark, she has yet to discover her special talent Miss Sunset Shimmer." Spoiled Rich said. "And being one of the students of Princess Celestia, and from what I've heard, being a big sister figure for the other student Twilight Sparkle, I was wondering if perhaps on school weekends you'd be willing to help my daughter out with finding a talent to have. I honestly could care less at this point what her talent is, I only worry that her lack of a cutie mark will make her fall behind her peers." She explained.
"Not to worry Spoiled Rich. I will do what I can to help your daughter. But honestly, I'm not sure if there's anything that I specifically can do." Sunset said. "However, I will do my absolute best to guide your daughter towards figuring out her talent." She added.
"That is all am asking you for. And maybe, she could grow to see you as a big sister just like Twilight did for you." Spoiled Rich said.
"Now that last part is up to her and her alone." Sunset said.
Elsewhere, Diamond Tiara was once again being bullied by the school's rich colt known as Silver Platter who is known at the school as being the boyfriend of Silver Spoon, the only Pony who Silver Platter never bullies.
"Hey! Leave her alone!" A female voice suddenly called out. Before Diamond Tiara could process this, a yellow filly with a red mane suddenly came out of nowhere and stood in front of Diamond Tiara.
"So, there's still another Blank Flank at the school besides little miss Diamond Tiara." Silver Platter said.
"Call me blank flank as much as you want, you are not picking on her, Silver Platter!" The Yellow filly said. Diamond Tiara was in awe. Never before had anyone ever come to her rescue like that. Not even against Silver Platter.
"Tch. Fine. I was done here anyways." Silver Platter said and left. The yellow filly turned to Diamond Tiara.
"Are you okay?" The yellow filly asked. Diamond Tiara couldn't help but admire the beauty of the filly before her but quickly calmed herself.
"Yeah. I'm fine. No one's ever stood up for me like that. Not even against Silver Platter. So, thanks for that. My name's Diamond Tiara. What's yours?" Diamond Tiara asked.
"Ma name's Apple Bloom. Nice to meet you." The yellow filly said. Diamond Tiara's eyes went wide.
"Wait a minute; are you related to Anny 'Apple' Smith by any chance?" Diamond Tiara asked.
"Darn tootin'; she's my grandma!" Apple Bloom said.
"Oh my gosh; I was just saved by Anny Smith's granddaughter..." Diamond Tiara said, almost swooning.
"...Are ya sure your okay there Diamond Tiara?" Apple Bloom asked.
"Yeah. I'm fine. I just never really expected to run into the granddaughter of one of my dad's business partners here as school." Diamond Tiara said.
"That would be Filthy Rich wouldn't it? So your THAT Diamond Tiara. He did say he had a daughter about my age. Guess he meant you." Apple Bloom said. Diamond Tiara managed to hold back a blush.
"Well then, if my father is a friend of your grandma, then I don't see why we can't be friends." Diamond Tiara said. "Although I secretly hope we can be more then friends one day..." She muttered.
"What was that?" Apple Bloom asked.
"Nothing. So you don't have a cutie mark either I see." Diamond Tiara said.
"Eenope. So I say we should stick together, maybe help each other until we both have our marks." Apple Bloom said, holding out her hoof. Diamond Tiara smiled and took it.
"I agree to that. After standing up for me, it's the least I could do." Diamond Tiara said which made Apple Bloom smile as well.
Later that day, Diamond Tiara returned home.
"Mom, dad, I'm home." Diamond Tiara said.
"Well someone is in high spirits." Spoiled Rich said.
"You could say that. I made a new friend in class today. She may not have a cutie mark yet, but she did stand up for me against that big old bully Silver Platter." Diamond Tiara said.
"Well that's very nice of them. Anyone who defends my daughter against that no good colt is okay in my book." Spoiled Rich said.
"Out of curiosity, what's your new friend's name?" Filthy Rich asked.
"That's the best part: She's the granddaughter of Anny Smith, better known as Granny Smith of the Apple Family. Her name is Apple Bloom." Diamond Tiara said.
"Ah, good old Anny Smith. She did say she had a granddaughter about your age now." Filthy Rich said.
"Isn't Granny Smith the one who supplies you with Zap Apple Jam once a year?" Spoiled Rich asked.
"The one and the same. And if her granddaughter is the friend of my daughter, I don't think we should let the two be separate." Filthy Rich said.
"Well after standing up to that no good Silver Platter, I'd say Apple Bloom being friends with Diamond Tiara is fine by me." Spoiled Rich said. "So long as the two of you stay out of trouble." She added.
"I'll be fine mom." Diamond Tiara said.
"On another note, I did ask Sunset to see if she could help you with finding your talent." Spoiled Rich said. "Though she did say that unless you made some friends, she could only consider it before she left. When she asked if you had any friends, and when I told her no, she said that until you made some friends, she would only consider my offer. I hope I can tell her the good news tomorrow while your at school." She added.
"You do that mom." Diamond Tiara said. Outside, Sunset had heard everything. She smiled and left.
Dear Princess Celestia,
I am happy to report that one of your youngest subjects has made a new friend today after their new friend stood up for them against a notorious bully.
It just goes to show that sometimes friendships can form when a total stranger is willing to stand up for you and who you are even if you've never met.
So while I may not have learnt much about friendship today myself, I will say that this is an example that there is no age at which friendship can start. Which is a friendship lesson I have already learnt. And one I can say the one known as Diamond Tiara has learnt today as well.
From your faithful Student, Sunset Shimmer.
Author's Note
So in case it wasn't obvious enough, this version of Diamond Tiara has yet to earn her cutie mark and thus isn't as stuck up as the original version. So think of this as like a version of Diamond Tiara who never gets to become a bully while Silver Spoon has a rich colt as a boyfriend who fills Diamond Tiara's role for this AU. Also, because this this version of Diamond Tiara doesn't have a cutie mark, Spoiled Rich is more then willing to let Diamond Tiara hang out with the Cutie Mark Crusaders of Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo.  
Oh, and because of scene with AB standing up for DT, there is some hidden AppleTiara/DiamondBloom shipping going on in the background. Didn't think I'd be able to work that in somehow did you?

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           Season 1: Episode 10 - Young Friends            
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Season 1: Episode 10 - Young Friends
“You think your what now?” Spoiled Rich asked.
“I think I have a crush on Apple Bloom. Standing up for me like that…guess it effected me in a way. I won’t try anything yet though. I want to be sure of my feelings before acting on them. Just thought I’d ask if it is okay for me to be attracted to a mare.” Diamond Tiara said. Spoiled Rich bit her lip.
“While I would prefer you fall in love with a colt; I am not against you falling in love with a filly that stood up for you. So I will allow you to collect your feelings. I hope that when you are both old enough, magic research can allow for two mares to have kids.” Spoiled Rich said.
“What’s this about magic for mares to have kids?” Sunset asked, coming in. After becoming friends with Apple Bloom, Sunset agreed to at least make sure Diamond made more friends before doing any help with the filly’s cutie mark.
“Oh just…my daughter thinks she may be in love with another filly.” Spoiled Rich said.
“Ah. Well your daughter would have no problems when the two are old enough; magic to combine the DNA of two mares to impregnate one of them with a child is already there. It’s just…only in it’s infancy right now. Right now, the best way for two mares to have a child is by Celestia using a special ritual to create one. But I’m sure by the time your daughter is old enough, the magic process will be much more developed.” Sunset said.
“That’s good.” Spoiled Rich said. Diamond Tiara smiled.
“I’m going to go see what Apple Bloom is…” Diamond Tiara said before said filly rushed in.
“We got a problem, Diamond: Silver Platter decided to host his cutecenara tomorrow!” Apple Bloom said.
“He’s going to try and show off and bully a bunch of the kids there…” Spoiled Rich said.
“How bad is that guy?” Sunset said.
“Really, really bad. He pick on everyone at school. Everyone but Silver Spoon.” Apple Bloom said. “It’s because one day, Silver Platter got sick, and couldn’t go to school for a few days. During that time, Silver Spoon decided to take up the role of bully, and as if to thank her, Silver Platter decided to become her Coltfriend.” She explained.
“Even other ponies with a cutie mark?” Sunset asked. Everyone else in the room nodded. “What’s his problem?!” Sunset asked.
“Apple Bloom…should we go?” Diamond Tiara asked.
“We gotta defend those that are there.” Apple Bloom said.
“I agree.” Diamond Tiara said. “I have had enough of that jerk as it is. And this time, I won’t face him alone.” She added.
“Yer darn tootin’.” Apple Bloom said.
“Give him a piece of my mind too.” Spoiled Rich said.
“Me and Twilight will be there too. If he really is as bad as you say he is, we will write a report back to Celestia about it.” Sunset said.
Diamond smiled. She could do this.
Sunday arrived soon enough. Diamond Tiara was outside sugarcube corner with Apple Bloom psyching herself up.
“You gonna be okay?” Apple Bloom asked.
“Yeah; yeah let’s do this thing!” Diamond Tiara said. The two fillies soon walked right inside the place. No disguises, because they were going to get Silver Platter to back off.
Of course everyone looked at the two newcomers.
“Funny…I don’t remember sending either of you blank flanks an invite.” Silver Platter said. “No invite means no party. Now get out.” He added.
“How about we stay instead?” Diamond Tiara asked.
“My party, my rules.” Silver Platter said.
“Now you listen here--” Apple Bloom started.
“No you listen: My party, my rules. Last chance to leave of your own free will.” Silver Platter warned.
“No.” Diamond Tiara said. “This is a party.” She added.
“My party, my rules.” Silver Platter then tapped his hooves twice. But no one came. “Excuse me, miss Pinkie Pie, I believe I said these two are leaving.” Silver Platter said.
“Yeah and I’m the one in charge of security. You need to let them stay.” Pinkie Pie said.
“May I remind you that my mother donates a hefty amount to sugarcube corner every year. If that money were to mysteriously stop coming, you’d be out of a job.” Silver Platter said. “So I won’t ask you again: Kick these two out.” He commanded.
“How about we leave then too?” A female voice said. Out from the nearby table came Sweetie Belle and a Pegasus filly
“Now now…you two have invited. You can stay.” Silver Platter said.
“No. We’re leaving with them, or they are staying. Take your pick.” Sweetie Belle said.
“Yeah.” The Pegasus filly said.
“Why I…I don’t believe this! Come on Silver Spoon…” Silver Platter then went upstairs with Silver Spook right behind him who glared at the foursome before fully going upstairs.
“Thanks for the assist.” Diamond Tiara said.
“Nothing to it. I’m Scootaloo by the way.” The Pegasus filly said.
“And I’m Sweetie Belle.” Sweetie Belle said. “Seems neither of you have cutie marks.” She added.
“Eenope. Not us.” Apple Bloom said. Then Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle revealed they didn’t have cutie marks either.
“Whoa; I didn’t think there were others besides me and Apple Bloom.” Diamond Tiara admitted.
“We thought we were the only two as well.” Scootaloo said. Spoiled Rich approached the foursome.
“Thank you both so much…” Spoiled Rich said to the two new fillies. “You stood up for my daughter and her new friend. I thank you.” Spoiled Rich said.
“It was nothing.” Sweetie Belle said.
“So you two wanna hang out with us from now on?” Apple Bloom asked.
“Sounds like a plan! We can even make a group out of it!” Diamond Tiara said.
“I’m liking this idea.” Scootaloo said.
“What about a name? Maybe the Cutie Mark Four?” Sweetie Belle asked.
“Or maybe the Talent Finders; that one fits us.” Diamond Tiara said.
“Ah got a better idea: The Cutie Mark Crusaders!” Apple Bloom said. All the others agreed and the four fillies hoof bumped each other.
Sunset and Twilight both looked at each other and nodded.
Dear Princess Celestia,
You may find it odd that both of us are writing this friendship report but honestly after seeing such a coming of friendship between not just two, but four ponies from different walks of life, we had to write this one together.
Twilight: Today we had both learned that no matter what, friendship will find a way. Sunset was right before: Sometimes all it takes to be someone’s friend is to stand up for someone else, and today both Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo stood against Silver Platter for Diamond Tiara and Apple Bloom’s sake. The four fillies are now good friends.
Sunset: And the funny thing is, none of them have cutie marks yet. I’m sure the four of them combined will find their cutie marks together. It just goes to show that what you think will set you apart can bring you closer together.
Your faithful Students, Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer.
Sunset P.S.: By the way, was wondering if you could figure out something: Apparently there’s someone my brother called Glim-Glam back at my home. Think you can spare a guard or two to look into that for me? Thanks.

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         Season 1: Episode 11 - Traveling Showmare         
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Season 1: Episode 11 - Traveling Showmare
"Hey Sunset, did you hear? There's a showpony coming to Ponyville in two days. I've never seen a showpony before." Twilight said.
"Twilight, you are the master of magic. You don't need to worry over some kind of showpony." Sunset said.
"Actually, while I am really good at magic, there is one kind of unicorn based magic I've always had trouble with." Twilight said.
"Really? That's news to me. Dare I ask what that magic is?" Sunset asked.
"Illusion Magic. Of all the schools of magic that aren't outright banned in Equestria like Dark magic is, Illusion magic is the only one I've had trouble with. In fact, I have zero talent in doing Illusion magic. But this showpony might be willing to share a few secrets with me." Twilight said.
"Fine...if that's what you want to do, don't let me stop you." Sunset said.
Twilight got tickets and was first to get them too. She even had enough bits to get a VIP Ticket for herself. That would allow her to go backstage after the show to have a one on one chat with the showpony themselves.
It was soon nighttime and this the show was about to start. To allow the children to see the entire show, the day of the show was on a Friday Night. Thankfully for the children, all their teachers agreed that tonight should be about seeing this showpony’s show and enjoy it without stress of homework or the like. Though there was one piece of homework for Ms. Cherilee’s Class: Each student had to write 5 things they enjoyed about the show.
Everyone’s eyes were on the stage as a mare wearing a magician’s hat soon came out.
“Hello and welcome all to the show of the Wonderous and Mysterious Trixie Lunamoon. I am; as you may have guessed; Trixie Lunamoon.” The Showmare in question said. “And now, I; The Wonderous and Mysterious Trixie; will dazzle you with sights you can only see here.” Trixie said. She began showing off various tricks and illusions with her magic to show off various creatures and pretend scenarios she made sure people knew were just pretend up front.
Eventually though the show came to an end and everyone walked away happy.
As Trixie began to take off her outfit Twilight showed up at her wagon where she was packing things up.
“Um…hey.” Twilight said and showed off her VIP ticket. “I wanted to let you know I got a VIP ticket.” She added.
“Trixie honestly didn’t expect anypony from a place like this to consider purchasing a VIP ticket. But since you are the only one who has bought one, Trixie supposes she owes you that one on one talk.” Trixie said.
“Well the main reason I purchased the ticket is because I heard your an expert in Illusion Magic. And I was wonder if maybe you could teach me a few things to get me started in doing some Illusion Magic for myself.” Twilight said. Trixie Blinked.
“Trixie is admittedly unsure about this she…” Trixie began when all of a sudden…
”ROOOOOAAAAR!”
“That’s the sound of an Ursa Minor!” Twilight noticed. It was coming their way. Thinking quickly Twilight teleported her and Trixie out of Trixie’s wagon before she began to use her magic to soothe the Ursa Minor and get it back into Everfree Forest.
“Whoa. That was impressive.” Trixie Said. “So if you can do that, why do you need Trixie’s help with Illusion magic?” She asked.
“Well…it’s the one school of magic I don’t have any experience in I’m afraid. That’s why I was hoping you’d teach me a few starting points.” Twilight said.
“Well you did just prevent Trixie from becoming a pony pancake so Trixie; no; I will be willing to teach you a few things about Illusion magic while my wagon gets fixed.” Trixie said.
A few days pass. While the townsfolk worked to rebuild Trixie’s Wagon, Trixie taught Twilight the basics of Illusion Magic.
While this was going on, Trixie got to hang out with all of Twilight’s friends; even Sunset Shimmer.
For the first time since she started being a Showpony, Trixie actually felt like she belonged somewhere. All of Twilight’s friends found Trixie quite the entertaining pony. When Trixie and Twilight took breaks from the lessons, Trixie would sometimes entertain Twilight and her friends with the Showmare’s Illusions.
Dear Princess Celestia,
Originally when I heard there was a Showpony coming to Ponyville, I was reminded of the complete jerkwad of a pony named “Jackpot” who tried to get my mother to cheat on her husband.
But after hanging out and getting to know the Showmare known as Trixie Lunamoon, for once I’m glad my presumption was wrong. She’s actually a very nice mare and a good friend. She’s even stated that she’ll be back to visit Ponyville once she’s done touring all of Equestria. It’ll be a few weeks before she heads out but I know I’ll miss her while she’s gone.
I suppose this goes to show that friendship is possible with anyone, and just because one pony with a certain profession acts one way, it doesn’t mean all ponies under that profession are the same way.
Your Faithful Student, Sunset Shimmer.
As Celestia read Sunset’s letter, she was reminded of something.
“Raven, put all meetings today on hold. There is a mirror I must check.” Celestia said.
“Of course your highness.” Raven Inkwell said.
Author's Note
So yeah, in case it's not obvious, I decided to not give Trixie an ego over her magical capabilities. I know that's her thing normally, but I didn't want to do that here for reasons everyone will see later. I also decided to have her tone down her own ego so she would feel more like the Showpony the show was trying to make her be in the first place. I did keep her third person talk going because it was too Trixie to remove. Also making the Ursa Minor attack in the middle of the night was something I wanted to do to at least keep SOMETHING from the original show in here.  
This was a bit shorter then normal, but I did my best to get as close to 1,000 words as I could at the least.

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          Season 1: Episode 11 Extra - The Mirror          
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Author's Note
Here’s a bonus add-on to Episide 11, and thus expect a short chapter this go around.
Season 1: Episode 11 Extra - The Mirror
The last letter from Sunset reminded Celestia of the mirror she planned on showing Sunset orginally. She was going to show it the day after Sunset first played with Twilight Sparkle.
But after seeing the bound the two formed, Celestia decided to cancel any plans of revealing the truth of the mirror to Sunset.
The Princess was now however not so sure showing the mirror would have been a good thing.
Because in front of the Princess was a now broken mirror.
Using magic, Celestia figured out exactly when the mirror was broken. And what she found shocked her.
“So, that’s where Sunburst is then…” Celestia said. She would have to restore this mirror now. “I can only hope that Sunburst is doing okay in that world.” Celestia added.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Season 1: Season 12 - The Belle & The Dragon        
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 1: Season 12 - The Belle & The Dragon
Applejack had shown the Cutie Mark Crusaders an old clubhouse that the foursome made into a more workable clubhouse. Though it was mostly Apple Bloom who got it up and running.
“This is much better then before.” Diamond Tiara said.
“Thanks Diamond.” Apple Bloom said as Scootaloo came up to them on her scooter which now sported a wagon.
“Hey girls.” Scootaloo said.
“Hey Scootaloo. What’s with the wagon?” Diamond Tiara asked.
“Thought it’d let us all get places fast. Plus I can practice my scootering. Though I would love to fly one day.” Scootaloo said.
“Ever thought about asking Rainbow Dash to train you?” Diamond Tiara asked.
“I…could ask yes. I’ll do it another time though. Where’s Sweetie Belle?” Scootaloo asked. Suddenly Spike walked past them holding flowers and heading for the clubhouse.
“…Isn’t that Spike?” Apple Bloom asked.
“Yep.” Diamond Tiara said.
Spike approached Sweetie Belle.
“Spike right? How’d you know I was here?” Sweetie Belle asked.
“I asked Rarity where you were. I thought I’d get you some flowers.” Spike said handing over the flowers. Sweetie Belle blushed.
“Why thank you. I wish I had something to give you in return.” Sweetie Belle said.
“I’d rather you not. Just in case that triggers my dragon instincts.” Spike said. “Twilight has been specific with me about that: I need to be careful in case my dragon heritage causes me to do things other dragons do.” He added.
“Wow. That’s so brave of you.” Sweetie said. Now it was Spike’s turn to blush.
“Well, I was wondering if maybe you’d like to hang out next weekend. At Twilight’s place.” Spike said.
“Sure. I’d like that. I’ll have to ask my sister for permission first though.” Sweetie said waving spike off. As soon as she did she was singing a small little song.
While she and the rest of the Crusaders didn’t do a whole lot today, they were getting the clubhouse set up today after all. Still Sweetie Belle wanted to talk with her sister.
Sweetie Belle mentally smacked herself. No her mother.
The reality is that while Rarity and Sweetie Belle will tell others they are sisters, the reality is that Rarity is Sweetie Belle’s mother. But they keep their true relationship a secret.
Still just in case anyone ever was listening in, they did lie about their true relationship to one another even in private.
Sweetie Belle entered her sister’s; no; her mother’s boutique and found her sister; no; her mother working on a few dresses.
“Hey there…” Sweete Belle paused. “Sister. I was wondering if I could hang out with Spike at Twilight’s library sometime.” She finished.
“You mean the dragon who seems to be about your age right? Well I think the two of you could really make a cute couple someday. And I’m not one to stop you from following your heart and pursuing a relationship with anyone. Regardless of species.” Rarity said.
“Thanks…” Sweetie paused again. “Big sis. I do hope me and Spike click very well.” She added.
“I hope you do too. He seems like such a gentle dragon.” Rarity said. Sweetie nodded at that.
In the middle of the week Sweetie came over to the library to hang out with Spike. Twilight allowed it as she needed to talk with Rarity about something. So Twilight went to Ratity’s place.
“Oh Twilight. What brings you here?” Rarity asked.
“Sunset brought something to my attention. Considering she has a little brother she once looked after, she knows all about how big sisters look after their little siblings. But every time you talk about Sweetie Belle as your sister, Sunset has been felt like it’s forced.” Twilight said. Rarity suddenly dropped everything she had her magic levitating.
“How? How did she figure that out?” Rarity asked.
“Must be a sibling thing. And I know that. Even if she’s only a surrogate big sister for me, she still treats me like I am her little sister for real. And I can’t help but treat her like my big sister for real. So I know a thing or two about how sisters act. And you and Sweetie Belle just don’t act like sisters even when you think you are.” Twilight said.
“Perhaps…it’s best I told everyone the truth. Go gather everyone would you?” Rarity asked. Twilight nodded.
“So what’s happening Rarity?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Well I haven’t been exactly honest with everyone. I know I refer to Sweetie Belle as my sister but that’s not the truth at all.” Rarity said.
“I knew it. Your not really blood related at all.” Sunset said.
“Actually Sunset…we are related by blood. But not as sisters.” Rarity suddenly showed off a picture of her, a unicorn stallion no one recognized, and a baby Sweetie Belle. “Rather, as mother and daughter.” Rarity said.
“Whose her daddy?” Applejack asked.
“His name was Lucky Belle. He was a very strange unicorn. At first, many believed that he had no unicorn magic. Yet Lucky Belle had what appeared to be insane luck. But then, as he grew up and strange things happened around him, one person took notice of it and realized that Lucky’s insane luck was in reality his unicorn magic interacting with the world in such strange ways that it would appear to the normal unicorn as Lucky being insanely lucky. Just to give an example, once Lucky was fighting a manticore when suddenly a hydra came out of nowhere and the two ran off with the hydra chasing the manticore.” Rarity said.
“What do you mean by was? If his magic worked that way, then how did he; you know; die?” Applejack asked.
“An incurable Cancer. Just after Sweetie Belle’s birth, Lucky Belle got diagnosed with stage 5 cancer. Seems his insane luck finally made him get insanely unlucky enough to get a very rare and incurable cancer strain. He died shortly after Sweetie’s first birthday.” Rarity said.
“That hurts…” Apple Bloom said.
“Yeah. So me and my mother have been masquerading as sisters. I guess the truth is out now.” Sweetie Belle said. Spike suddenly hugged her.
“I don’t care if your not really Rarity’s sister; your still beautiful to me.” Spike said. Sweetie Belle blushed.
“Thank you Spike.” Sweetie Belle said.
I suppose it’s time to tell a certain Pegasus the truth then. Tomorrow. Rainbow Dash thought to herself.
Dear Princess Celestia,
While there hasn’t been anything me and Sunset have learnt about Friendship specifically, our friend Rarity did come out and told the truth about her and her “sister” Sweetie Belle.
The reality is that Rarity is Sweetie Belle’s mother. But this has had no real affect on our group of friends. In fact nothing has changed. She’s still our friend and the element of Generosity.
I guess if I had to put a friendship spin on this, it’s that you can share your secrets with your friends, and it won’t effect how they see you as a pony. It might even bring you closer together with your friends.
Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.
Author's Note
Yes the chapter name is a reference to “The Beauty & The Beast”.  
The concept of Sweetie Belle being Rarity’s daughter was taken from the “Dear CMC” series, specifically “Dear Sweetie Belle”. Go check it out if you want to later.  
Also more Spike and Sweetie Belle shipping. That’s a plus.  
This chapter was originally meant for Father’s Day, but I missed posting it then. This is because just like with Sweetie Belle’s dad in the story, my father too died shortly after my first birthday (he died in October while I was born in August). I made this chapter for all those out there who had to grow up without their fathers in their lives and wanted to encourage them into not giving up hope.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
           Season 1: Episode 13 - Time to Chill            
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 1: Episode 13 - Time to Chill
Twilight, Sunset, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity were enjoy a cafe with Moondancer, Bon Bon, and Lyra.
“I can’t believe you actually letting Lyra use your upstairs area rent free.” Moondancer said to Bon Bon.
“Well it IS otherwise unused and because I want to support Lyra and her harp playing abilities, I decided to let her use the upstairs place for free. I make enough bits to cover utilities making my sweets. And what’s more, I think Lyra’s harp playing is something worth hearing at night.” Bon Bon said.
“Wait…you’ve actually heard my harp playing on certain nights? Why didn’t you say anything about it?” Lyra asked.
“I didn’t say anything because it’s very relaxing. There were nights before you came that I’m not afraid to admit I get nightmares. But after you came and started playing your harp, I haven’t had a single nightmare since. So because of that I’ve been having a far better time sleeping and have been making much better sweets because of it.” Bon Bon said.
“Sounds like a win-win scenario to me: Bon Bon gets rid of her icky bity nightmares and Lyra gets to play her harp to her heart’s content.” Pinkie Pie said.
“How would you get that?” Moondancer said.
“It’s Pinkie Pie, she gets everything.” Rainbow Dash said. Suddenly Octavia and Vinyl Scratch joined them.
“Oh hey Vinyl. You doing good?” Pinkie Pie asked. Vinyl suddenly looked like she wrote something down and then showed I to everyone.
I’m doing super now that Octavia got me this journal to write things down to respond to people using words for the first time in my life. Vinyl had written.
“Wow. That was very thoughtful of you, Octavia.” Rarity said.
“I’m just looking out for my roommate. After all, her latest song was a clever mix of Vinyl’s turntables and my cello. It was such a clever mix that the song sold out day one.” Octavia said.
It was your idea to mix Modern and Classic together. I’m just surprised how good it sounded. Vinyl wrote.
“I wouldn’t give Octavia all the credit though; the fact that you both made it work so well is proof classic music can have a place with the more electric based music industry.” Sunset said.
“My big sis is right; don’t sell yourself so short Vinyl.” Twilight said.
Thank you for the complement. Vinyl Wrote. Octavia smiled and half hugged her fellow musician.
Elsewhere, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were hanging out with Rumble from school as well as Spike. Rumble was next to Scootaloo and Spike was next to Sweetie Belle with the two earth fillies next to each other.
“And that look on Silver Platter’s face when his mom grounded him after she learnt what he tried to do during his cutcenara? Priceless.” Diamond Tiara said.
“Really wish I could have been there to see that one.” Spike said.
“Yeah. Why is it that your forbidden from coming to school?” Rumble asked.
“From ma understanding, it’s something about something called the EEA guideline.” Apple Bloom said. “Ah don’t know all the small details though.” She said. Spoiled Rich and Filthy Rich soon joined them.
“Hey mister and misses Rich; maybe you know what the details are about the EEA guideline.” Scootaloo said.
“I assume this is because of Spike here.” Filthy Rich said.
“Well I for one just think the rule is stupid.” Spike said.
“To be fair Spike, you are the only non-pony that lives in Equestria borders. So I can see how it’s a problem for you.” Spoiled Rich said. “Now From what I’ve been told, every school in Equestria is overseen by the EEA; even Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns is like that.” She added.
“So even the princess has to follow those rules too. Which makes no sense.” Sweetie Belle said.
“Actually, while Celestia does rule Equestria, all her decisions do have to go through The High Council before they are approved.” Filthy Rich said.
“Ah yeah. From what Celestia told me, they are five ponies from across Equestria who are elected by the country once every four years.” Spike said. “I never got to meet any of them though. I couldn’t even begin to tell you who they are.” Spike said. Suddenly he burped up a letter. “Sorry. Looks like it’s for Sunset. Gotta go take this to get.” Spike said.
To My Faithful Student Sunset,
I decided to ask your mother first if she knew of anypony your brother was calling “Glim-Glam” and she told me she’s not exactly sure she ever heard him call anypony that.
She did mention however that your brother was spending a lot of time with a pony named Starlight Glimmer. She figures that must be who Sunburst was calling “Glim-Glam”.
I will do some personal digging into this pony known as Starlight Glimmer and share with you what I come up with.
Until then, from Princess Celestia
MEANWHILE…
A mysterious unicorn with a light purple coat was currently making a wand.
“Soon, I will make cutie marks obsolete and then no one will be outcasted because of them!” The Unicorn said.
Author's Note
Figured I’d use this chapter to take a break from all the action going on right now and use this opportunity to include even more of the side characters. That’s why the letter near the end is from Celestia to Sunset  
Also the writing thing for Vinyl Scratch is taken from a story series I don’t know the proper name of. I just know Vinyl is mute there too and writes in a journal like she does here.  
Also there is a very vague hint for a future ship in this chapter. Think you can find it and guess it correctly?  
This is also the end of Season 1. I know there's only Thirteen full episodes here, but I feel like I've done everything I can do regarding things from Season 1 of the show's canon that isn't related to the Grand Galloping Gala. In case anyone is wondering where the heck THAT related content is, just know that I am saving it for something MUCH later on. Trust me when I say that what I'm going to use it for will be well worth the wait.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
          Season 1: Episode 14 - Prankless Sunset          
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 1: Episode 14 - Prankless Sunset
Sunset returned from her trip to Canterlot to check up and visit her mother for a few days and soon arrived back in Ponyville spying a Zebra with her friends.
“Who is this?” Sunset asked.
“Ah, Sunset, just in time.” Twilight said. “We were just getting to know our new friend Zecora here.” She added.
“You took initiative to make a new friend while I was gone?” Sunset asked. “So proud…” She added.
“Is your friend alright, because her eyes are moist in the light?” Zecora said.
“Um…what?” Sunset said.
“She means your tearing up.” Twilight says. Sunset chuckled
“Well considering you’ve come a long way since I became your Surrogate Big Sister, can you blame me?” Sunset asked.
“Not at all.” Twilight said, smiling.
“So Zecora is it? It’s a pleasure to…whoops!” Sunset said before tripping over a rock and causing the basket that Zecora was holding to tumble and spill it’s contents on Sunset.
“Oh great, not again…” Twilight said, remembering the flower that sunset had now touched.
“Not again what?” Sunset said.
“We had to deal with an incident revolving around Poison Joke while you were gone; and that’s exactly what your gonna be affected by in a few hours.” Rainbow Dash said.
“Poison Joke? I don’t follow.” Sunset Said.
“Sunset, that plant is going to effect you by playing a prank of some sort on you. Me and the others all had the same thing happen to us. My horn became floppy and useless.” Twilight said.
“I couldn’t fly straight.” Rainbow Dash said.
“My well kept coat was made into an utter mess!” Rarity said.
“Ah was made super tiny.” Applejack said.
“I could barely talk.” Pinkie Pie said.
“What about Fluttershy?” Sunset asked.
“My normally quiet feminine voice was made loud and masculine.” Fluttershy said.
“Seems everyone had something happen to them that would make them deal with their polar opposites.” Sunset said.
“Not really opposites…” Twilight said. “Good news, we know how to cure it now.” She added.
But a few hours of procuring the ingredients for another bubble bath later, and nothing seemed to have happened to Sunset.
“Ah don’t get it, how can Sunset not be pranked yet?” Applejack said Twilight examined Sunset.
“Well as far as I can tell, nothing external seems to have happened. Another Flutterguy situation?” Twilight asked.
“Flutterguy?” Sunset asked, confused.
“That’s what we jokingly called Fluttershy when her voice changed.” Rainbow Dash said. “But your voice sounds normal.” She added.
“So then what is it? What’s changed?” Twilight asked.
“Perhaps the prank lies not on what is external, but rather is more internal.” Zecora said. Sunset flinched.
“How did you know?” Sunset asked.
"So she is pranked. But what kind of prank could really prank Sunset? I know me and Pinkie Pie tried a few times during our prank bonding experience before Gilda showed up, but nothing seemed to phase her." Rainbow Dash said.
"It's difficult to explain. It's in regards to my brother." Sunset said. "For some reason, in certain places, I swear I see him running about. But that's not possible, because I know my brother is missing and the chances of my brother being in Ponyville are low." She added. "I even once thought I heard someone say his name." Sunset asked.
"Actually, not to sure that part about someone saying a name is an effect of Poison Joke; I know I heard someone say 'Sunburst' at some point." Twilight said. Suddenly Sunset went up to Twilight.
"Did you just say you heard the name Sunburst the same point I did?!" Sunset exclaimed.
"Sunset, what does that name mean to you?" Applejack asked.
"Sunburst...that's the name of my brother whose gone missing. I'm still searching for him of course. I won't stop until I find out where he's gone." Sunset said.
"I know you won't Sunset." Twilight said.
"Celestia said she'd also find someone named Starlight Glimmer, who I'm guessing is who my brother was calling 'Glim-Glam' back before he disappeared. After all, like I told you, he disappeared two weeks before I met you Twilight." Sunset said.
"Why are you searching for this Starlight Glimmer?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"My brother wanted to say something to her, and I'm sure if I found my brother alive and got him to meet up with Starlight Glimmer, I'm sure he'd still say the same thing to her that I overheard him say one time. I know this because I know my brother would never change his mind on anyone he gives a nickname to." Sunset said.
"What kind of message is it, if you don't mind me asking?" Fluttershy asked.
"I wanted to tell Starlight Glimmer that my brother still considers him or her their best friend in the whole wide world." Sunset said.
"That's...that's really beatitful!" Pinkie Pie said before bawling.
As the elements got Sunset into a Bubble Bath, unbeknowst to them, a certain unicorn mare overheard that conversation, and was now crying herself.
"I'm still...I'm still Sunburt's best friend...even after all this time..." She said. "Sunset Shimmer...that was her name right?" The mare said. "Well...look no further Sunset Shimmer...your about to meet Glim-Glam." She added.
Author's Note
I’ll be honest, I thought Bridle Gossip was a season 2 episode until I looked it up. Yay bonus? Also, Sunset finally reveals her brother's name to the main 6 as well as the message, and this catches the attention of a certain unicorn...

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Season 2: Episode 1 - Chaotic Empathy Part 1        
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 1 - Chaotic Empathy Part 1
Canterlot Guarden, a few hours before Sunset went to visit her mother
Sunset decided to look at a statue that has been in the Canterlot Guarden ever since she first came to the castle. It was a rather old looking statue, but after finding out about a being known as Discord from some of the books she and Twilight had access to, she began to wonder if this statue that is of a strange looking creature the likes of which equestria has no record of is the same Discord.
"So...um...hi." Sunset said. "I'm not sure if you can hear me or something like the sort. My name is Sunset Shimmer. Not exactly sure if you know that yet or not. From what I've read, you were sealed away because you were spreading chaos like wildfire. Listen, I get that your a being of chaos, but trust me: Too much of one thing will get boring. Even Chaos. I once tried to have a full week of nothing but wild shenanigans with my surrogate sister Twilight but...both of us found it boring about three days in. Sure your a being of chaos, but there's a time for chaos and a time for order. Maybe, if you do eventually get out of that prison of yours, you could consider perhaps not going so overboard like you did last time. What I mean is, instead of trying to make Equestria a land of nothing but chaos, perhaps you could add a dash of chaos somewhere. Nothing over the top, just do something to spice something up to a degree that will hide the fact that your the one that made the chaos happen. Something like that." She explained. "And continue to do stuff like that from time to time. Not all the time mind you, make it sporadic, unpredictable even. That way, you get to spread chaos and it's not like how you did things a thousand years ago. Plus, there's the Grand Galloping Gala coming up in a few weeks. That to me sounds like the perfect thing for you to spice up." Sunset suggested. "Well I've got to go. I want to check up on my mother and see how she's doing ever since my brother disappeared. Huh...now that I think about it, perhaps you might know where he went off to? That would help a bunch if you did." She concluded before heading off.
A Pony...disappeared? A voice from within the statue said. Unbeknownst to Sunset at the time, Discord was very much alive in that statue; not to mention very aware. And he had heard every word Sunset said. Controlled Chaos...the idea actually excited the bringer of chaos. So much so that he was going to take it to heart. And Sunset wouldn't even realize that she had prevented Discord from trying to take over Equestria again, until much later...
Golden Oaks Library, the day after Sunset was affected by Poison Joke
"Eight Tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala; that's one for the two of us, our five friends, and Spike too." Twilight said.
"Yeah. I pretty much told Celestia that if she sent any less then eight tickets, our friends would fight over who gets to go and knowing you, you wouldn't want to go without all of us there. And I would stand by that decision and not want to go either." Sunset said. "Though, I'm not exactly sure if it's a great idea. I've been to the event before and believe me, it's not all it's cracked up to be." She added.
"Perhaps, but I wouldn't want to go without all our friends anyways." Twilight said. "Besides, I'm sure we'll find something to do while we're there." She added.
"You know something, your right. With the eight of us there together, surely we can think of something to take away from the event." Sunset said. Suddenly Rainbow Dash came in.
"Hey, did you guys know about something? Apparently, Princess Luna wants to start back up the Shadowbolts. Apparently it wasn't just a nightmare moon thing after all." Rainbow Dash said.
"Really? That's news to me. Mostly because I didn't even know that the Shadowbolts even existed before." Sunset said.
"Must be Luna's version of the Wonderbolts." Twilight said. "But what's that got to do with you, Rainbow Dash? Didn't you want to get into the Wonderbolts?" She asked.
"I do, but Luna is considering me as one of the first members. And she'll be able to work out some things so I don't have to be too far away from my friends." Rainbow Dash said.
"That's...wow..." Twilight said. "That's good news." She added.
"I know right. And I'm really thinking about accepting that invite to join because of that." Rainbow Dash said.
"Well, so long as it's what you want, the rest of us will support you one hundred percent." Sunset said. "I know we will." She added.
"Yeah, that's what the others said too when I told them." Rainbow Dash said.
"You told everyone else first?" Twilight asked.
"Well yeah. Hey, are those tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala for all of us?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Yep. Curtusy of Celestia." Sunset said.
"Sweet. Then I can get more details from Luna about what she's going to do with the Shadowbolts that'll allow me to be close to my friends while I'm there." Rainbow Dash said.
"Yeah, that is honestly the best opportunity to do so." Twilight said.
A few days later, all of the elements plus spike were soon arriving in Canterlot by train, with the girls all wearing dresses made by Rarity and Spike sporting a tux too. Waiting for them as they got off the train though, was a sight that made Sunset almost boil over with Anger.
"Prince Blueblood..." Sunset said, almost throwing up just at the bare mention of him.
"Settle down there Sunset." Rarity said, stepping forward. "It's been some time, hasn't it, Blueblood?" Rarity asked. Sunset expected Blueblood to yell at her friend but was not prepared for what happened next.
"It has been too long since we last spoke. Tell me, how is young Sweetie Belle?" Blueblood asked.
"She's growing up quite nicely. Just some trouble with her magic but I'm sure it'll come soon." Rarity said.
"Can't believe I've missed so much of her life but as you know, I've been quite busy. Perhaps one of these days, I'll make the trip down to Ponyville to check up on my niece. I mean can you believe it? Me? An Uncle? I never thought I'd live to see the day." Blueblood said.
"Okay, what in the name of the royal crown is going on here? Prince Blueblood, why are you talking like that?" Sunset asked, generally confused.
"Oh? I guess I never told you huh?" Rarity asked. "Lucky Belle is Prince Blueblood's half-brother." She said.
"LUCKY BELLE IS WHAT?!" Everyone else but Blueblood suddenly yelled out as their jaws hit the ground.
To Be Continued
Author's Note
Remember when I said that I was saving the Grand Galloping Gala for something later? Well, that something is here. Additionally, yeah. Blueblood's not a jerk in this version of events. Have fun wrapping your heads around THAT factiod.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Season 2: Episode 2 - Chaotic Empathy Part 2        
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 2 - Chaotic Empathy Part 2
The entire group managed to make it into the castle after that, though when they met Celestia, she did not look happy in the slightest.
"What's wrong Princess Celestia?" Twilight asked her mentor.
"It's about the royal gardens just outside the castle. The royal guards did a sweep of them last night." Princess Celestia said.
"Were there any intruders?" Rarity asked.
"No, nothing like that. Though the gardens are not off limits in the first place." Princess Celestia said. "No, what they found is more like what they didn't find." She added.
"Sometimes you can speak in riddles Princess; no offense." Sunset said.
"My apologies, perhaps I should just outright tell you: Located in the royal gardens is the statue of Discord, the spirit of chaos." Celestia said.
"But that's no statue right? I read all about Discord in the archives and figured that that Statue was Discord himself just imprisoned in stone." Sunset said.
"That's a bit of a stretch..." Blueblood said.
"No, Sunset is right Blueblood; that is no mere statue. What Sunset speaks of is the truth: That statue is Discord imprisoned in stone. It was the state me and my sister left him in one thousand years ago." Princess Celestia said.
"I would never have guessed. Why was he put in the garden?" Blueblood asked.
"He was put there so I would know if and when he would break out. I thought he'd forever be sealed in stone, but perhaps his release from his prison is in regards to the fact that me and my sister can no longer wield the Elements of Harmony." Celestia said.
"That actually would make sense...after Princess Luna let her jealousy and hatred consume her, she became Nightmare Moon, forcing you to use the elements to banish her to the moon. After which, they must have no longer deemed you or your sister worthy of wielding them ever again." Sunset said.
"Hey, this is Princess Celestia you are speaking to, show some--" Blueblood started.
"Cease Blueblood; once more Sunset is right." Celestia said.
"She is?" Blueblood asked.
"I am?" Sunset asked, which did make Blueblood do a double take. Seems Sunset didn't expect to be right on that one.
"The elements as you know, represent not just Magic, but also Generosity, Honesty, Loyalty, Empathy, Laughter, and Kindness. They are meant to be used as a whole, so when you stop showing signs of just one of those other six things, they no longer accept you." Celestia said.
"It was Loyalty that was broken then...because you made a hasty action and could think of nothing else to do..." Sunset said, realizing what that meant.
"Now that would make sense..." Blueblood said.
"So do you want us to use the elements on Discord?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Rainbow Dash, this is the spirit of Chaos your talking about. If Discord really escaped, then he would no doubt steal the elements from under Celestia's nose the first chance he got just so they could not be used against him." Sunset said.
"That would be the logical first thing to do now that you mention it..." Twilight said.
"Indeed, that would be the logical first thing he would do. Yet, as soon as I knew Discord was gone, I checked where the elements are being kept. They were there right where I left them." Celestia said.
"He could still steal them during the gala." Rarity said. "They are after all, the only things that could turn him back to stone." She added.
"That would be bad. Thing is we can't exactly stop him. From what I've read, he has the power to just warp wherever he wants." Sunset said.
"Not good." Rainbow Dash said.
"For now, we should try to enjoy the gala. While it is going on, I do hope either me, my sister, or one of you girls can come up with a plan of some kind." Celestia said.
"We'll do our best Pri--" Twilight began to speak when suddenly things at the gala started going haywire in a hurry.
"What the...what's going on?!" Blueblood exclaimed.
"I...I don't know..." Princess Celestia said.
Discord... Sunset thought to herself as chaos began to overrun the gala event. He did hear me...did I cause this? Sunset continued to think to herself.
"Is it Discord?" Twilight asked as things at the gala continued to spiral out of control.
"That would make sense considering he's known for creating Chaos..." Princess Celestia said.
"But wouldn't he go after the elements instead of...you know...the gala?" Applejack asked.
"My Pinkie Sense is sensing a doozy..." Pinkie Pie said, her body vibrating like crazy. "And it's a big one!" She said.
"Err...you sure that's not Discord doing that?" Blueblood asked.
"Don't even try to rationalize Pinkie Pie like ever Blueblood. She's always been a random one." Rarity said.
"I'll take your word for it." Blueblood said.
Okay, Blueblood being nice is going to take some getting used to... Sunset thought to herself as finally, the chaos at the Gala settled down.
"Discord, I know your there." Celestia said. Suddenly as if on cue, Discord did indeed show up.
"Did you enjoy the little show Princess Sunbutt? I know I sure did." Discord said.
"Sunbutt? How dare you speak to one of the Princesses that way!" Blueblood said.
"I wouldn't be speaking to him that way if I was you..." Sunset said.
"I'll speak to such a rude cretin however I damn well--" Blueblood said before suddenly his mouth was zipped up by Discord.
"That's enough out of you, Rudeblood." Discord said. Sunset rolled her eyes.
"I tried to warn you..." Sunset said so matter of factly to Blueblood.
"Pinkie Sense still sensing a Doozy..." Pinkie Pie said.
"Was this your doing? Why do I bother asking? Of course it was..." Celestia said. "So what? just giving everypony a taste of what you'll do to equestria?" Celestia asked.
"Just thought I'd take an idea someone said to me while I was still a statue and roll with it. And I have to admit...I quite enjoyed this bout of controlled Chaos." Discord said, putting on some glasses he materialized out of nowhere. This caused Princess Celestia to blink.
"Wait...what idea did they pitch to you?" Princess Celestia asked.
"That I should try my hand at controlled chaos. And I'll admit, the idea intrigued me to try it. So I did, and I enjoyed it. I think I'll do more of it in the future, but nothing anytime too soon. Gotta keep you ponies on your toes somehow." Discord said.
"Err...this is new..." Celestia said. "So your not going to try and take over Equestria again?" She asked.
"Please, now that I know how fun controlled Chaos can be, spreading it across Equestria in one fell swoop seems so boring now by comparison." Discord said. Celestia's jaw dropped.
"That is a doozy..." Celestia admitted.
"It may be one, but I'm still sensing a doozy yet to come..." Pinkie Pie said.
"This is like how I thought you meant the Hydra that appeared at the swamp only it turned out to be the fact that it was me believing in your Pinkie Sense that was the doozy you sensed." Twilight said.
"What could top what Discord just said though? Wait..." Celestia realized something. "The one who told you your idea...who was it..." Celestia said.
"Um...Princess Celestia..." Sunset said. "Admittedly, that was me. I'm the one who suggested he use his chaos stuff at the gala. Didn't think he'd actually hear me, let alone actually do it for that matter..." Sunset said.
"And I must say, your not as much of a stick in the mud as your teacher, Sunset Shimmer." Discord said. Celestia's Jaw drooped as Discord unzipped Blueblood's mouth and Pinkie Pie's body did some expansion and shrinking in several areas when she suddenly jumped.
"That was it! That was the doozy." Pinkie Pie said.
"...She's kidding? She's kidding right?" Blueblood asked.
"Nope. Body's stopped vibrating." Pinkie Pie said.
"Pinkie Pie...you are just so...RANDOM..." Blueblood said.
"Tell me something I don't know silly." Pinkie Pie said.
"So casual...your a different sort of pony, aren't you?" Discord asked.
"Again, tell me something I don't know." Pinkie Pie said.
"Pinkie Pie, careful..." Sunset said. Pinkie Pie suddenly took out a cookie from her mane.
"Cookie?" Pinkie Pie asked Discord.
"Wait...where did you get that? I know for certain you didn't have any cookies to make today." Twilight said.
"I had them baked last night and reheated them as soon as I got this morning." Pinkie Pie said.
"I...think the laws of reality were just broken..." Blueblood said.
"It's Pinkie Pie...in Ponyville, ponies have just gotten used to it by now." Applejack said.
"Um...so what happens with Discord now?" Fluttershy asked. "Do we really have to turn him back to stone if he's not going to be evil anymore?" She asked.
"That's a fair point actually..." Twilight said. "Do you give us your word there will be no evil takeovers?" She asked Discord.
"Now that's just mean. But I suppose I'm done with trying to take over Equestria like I said." Discord said. Fluttershy went up to Discord then.
"So mister Discord...I was curious if you'd stop by my cottage once I get back home. I'd love to get to know you." Fluttershy said.
"Fluttershy, what's with you? This is the spirit of Chaos." Rainbow Dash said.
"He's still a very fascinating creature. I've never seen anything quite like him. I'd love to know more about him and his species." Fluttershy said.
"I suppose I wouldn't mind sharing details with you. It would be a nice change of pace to actually talk to someone besides myself for a change." Discord said.
"Is it just me, or did Sunset and Fluttershy just reform Discord?" Rarity asked.
"I don't think it's just you." Twilight said.
"No wonder Sunset became the element of Empathy." Rainbow Dash said.
"Well, I suppose now would be a great time to clean up the mess at the gala." Sunset said. "Even if it is controlled chaos, those spills will stain the floors." She added.
"I'll take care of it." Discord said, and with a literal snap of his fingers, the things spilt onto the floor were no longer there; fixed within milliseconds.
"That was rather nice of you." Fluttershy said.
"I'm the one that caused it, only fair I clean it up. Besides, don't want to have too much fun or I'd get bored." Discord said.
"Err...right..." Sunset said.
"Well I suppose we can still enjoy the rest of the gala, right?" Twilight asked.
"I think your right." Sunset said.
"By the way Sunset, I suppose there is thanks to be had. Even if the Gala was targeted, I can't argue with what your words ultimately led to. Perhaps, in time, Discord can be considered an ally to Equestria rather then an enemy." Princess Celestia said.
"All I did was empathize with what he was. That's all I really did." Sunset said.
"Well it worked." Princess Celestia said.
"Yeah. I suppose it did, didn't it?" Sunset asked, smiling.
"Next time, try to let me know about this sort of thing before then..." Celestia said.
"Like I said, I didn't think it'd work." Sunset said.
"Fair point I suppose." Celestia said and went to enjoy things.
"You did good big sis. Don't tell yourself any different." Twilight said.
"But of course." Sunset said, smiling.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
 Season 2: Episode 3 - Luna's offer & Rainbow's Questions  
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 3 - Luna's offer & Rainbow's Questions
The gala continued, Discord did leave to go check to see how much Equestria has changed in 1,000 years.
After he left, Princess Luna soon joined the party. And as soon as she did, Rainbow Dash decided to have a chat with her.
"Rainbow Dash, I take it your curious about the Shadowbolt offer I mailed to you." Luna said. "The offer still stands if you want to take it." She added.
"I have some questions I want answered before I do anything else." Rainbow Dash said. "After all, you weren't exactly clear on some of the finer details." She added.
"Very well. I suppose if it will make your decision easier, I will answer your questions as honestly as I can." Luna said.
"I was wondering specifically about where you'll put the new Shadowbolt HQ." Rainbow Dash said.
"That's easy. After conversing with my sister, I found a nice air space not too far from Ponyville's rural areas that would make for a great spot to put the new Shadowbolt HQ. That way, you wouldn't have to go too far to and from your home in Ponyville to get there. The proximity to the place would allow you to stay where you live and be able to see your friends pretty much every day after practice was done." Luna explained. Rainbow Dash had a map of the air space of Ponyville and it's outskirts. "...Where did you get that?" Luna asked.
"A little something I was giving when I took the job as being the new weather factory manager at Cloudsdale." Rainbow Dash said. "Show me on this map where your talking about." She added. Luna put a hoof in a place.
"There." Luna said.
"That's...probably going to require me to move my house then." Rainbow Dash said.
"Hmm? What are you talking about?" Luna asked.
"My house is in that airspace pocket." Rainbow Dash said.
"Wait...you meant to tell me that your house is a cloud house?" Luna asked.
"Yep." Rainbow Dash said. "I put my house there so it wouldn't be over anything major." She added.
"Oh...I see. I apologize. I wish I had asked you about your house sooner." Luna said. "I suppose I'll have to look a little beyond this map in this case." She added.
"Hey it's no big. I'm sure I can find some other place to park my cloud home." Rainbow Dash admitted.
"I'd rather not cause you to move your home unnecessarily. Though..." Luna did notice something. "This pocket of airspace not too far away from it that's just barely covered by this map...what's there?" She added.
"That would be the lake that cloudsdale uses to make rain at the weather factory." Rainbow Dash said.
"Ah...best not to obscure that then." Luna said.
"Hey don't worry. Your a princess, I'm sure you'll come up with somewhere not too much further away. And like I said, there's other pockets of airspace I could put my home at that wouldn't obscure anything." Rainbow Dash said. "Like right here for instance." She added, pointing to the top left portion of the map. "There's nothing really that can go there that would still be part of Ponyville exactly." Rainbow Dash noted.
"Actually miss Rainbow Dash, how about you keep your home where it is now? I think you have solved my problem for me." Luna said.
"Oh...heh...well I try..." Rainbow Dash said.
"Were there any other details you wished to discuss with me?" Luna asked.
"Yeah. Just a few others. Like, who else is going to be on the team." Rainbow Dash said.
"Now that, I would rather leave as a surprise. But make no mistake, I have sent out invites to some others that I have my eyes on. I think you'll appreciate the ones I have selected. For the most part." Luna said.
"So long as you don't accidently pick wonderbolts, I don't see a problem with Celestia happening." Rainbow Dash said.
"Actually, I asked my sister for a list of them so I wouldn't. Though there is one stallion I have my eyes on that is the brother of a Wonderbolt. I wonder if you've heard of Thunderlane?" Luna asked.
"The guy whose brother is Rumble right? I know of those two, but we only really met once." Rainbow Dash said. "I think Thunderlane was alright. Nice guy at least." She added.
"I'm trying to make my selections based around those I think not only would make great stunt fliers like the ones in the Wonderbolts, but I also those I think would get along well with each other. I want this new version of the Shadowbolts to have some loyalty to the rest of the squad, and the best way to do that, is to allow for them to get along nicely with each other. Skill is the main factor still, but if one shows promise in getting along with others, it'd make the the new Shadowbolts all the better." Luna said.
"Well sign me up for that!" Rainbow Dash said.
"I knew you'd say that as soon as you heard that. Now as for your place on the team..." Luna said.
"I'm not exactly sure if me being captain right away is a good idea..." Rainbow Dash said. "Just because I'm first wouldn't make it right. I want to earn something like that you know?" She asked.
"Don't worry, I had a feeling. I just wanted to confirm it with you. Your still going to be on the squad, I just wanted to know if you'd be okay with taking orders from somepony else for a while." Luna said.
"It'll be fine. I want to earn the captain's seat." Rainbow Dash said.
"Good. Because I did sort of already have a captain in mind." Luna said. "...You may come out now." She said to the shadows nearby. A lone mare wearing a costume not unlike the Shadowbolt apparitions that Luna created while Nightmare moon trotted up to Luna and Rainbow Dash.
"So...this is her then." The mare said.
"Yes. This is Rainbow Dash. I trust there's not a problem with her." Luna said.
"Consdering the squad wouldn't have gotten remade without her stopping you from being evil, no. There is no problem with her. I just expect nothing but her best." The mare said.
"I'm going out a limb here, and guessing your the captain Princess Luna was just talking about." Rainbow Dash said.
"Yes I am. The name's Night Wing. And let me make something clear to you, miss Rainbow Dash: You may have let the Shadowbolts be created, but if you don't pull your weight as well as get along with everyone on the squad, then you can be easily replaced. Got that?" The mare said. "I won't tolerate those who slack off or fail to get along with the others of the squad. So I'd advise you to make sure you have your A-game at all times and make sure you don't have any alterations with the rest of the squad." Night Wing said.
"Shouldn't be too much of a problem ma'm." Rainbow Dash said, giving a salute.
"...Uh...At ease..." Night Wing said. Rainbow Dash stopped saluting. "And uh...please just call me Night Wing when we're not doing practice." Night Wing said sheepishly.
"Okay Night Wing." Rainbow Dash said.
"I'm not...normally such a drill sargent. Something about being captain sort of brings that out of me." Night Wing said.
"Heh...I know the feeling. Same thing happend to me my first day of being the Weather Factory Manager. Which does remind me, I'll have to pick a replacement." Rainbow Dash said.
"Ah yes. That would be best. I did forget that you mentioned that." Luna said. "I'm sure whoever you pick won't disappoint you." She added.
"It's Rainbow Dash; she'll make sure to pick the best pony for the job." Night Wing said. Rainbow Dash smiled.
"You and I are going to get along just fine Night Wing. I can just tell." Rainbow Dash said.
"I hope your right." Night Wing said.
Author's Note
Bet you thought I forgot about this, didn't you? And yeah, the new Shadowbolt captain is not only an OC I created, but their name is indeed a reference to Batman.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
      Season 2: Episode 4 - Sunset meets "Glim-Glam"       
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 4 - Sunset meets "Glim-Glam"
As the elements arrived back in ponyville, Sunset Shimmer was a little stunned.
"I really cannot believe that I still played a part in reforming Discord." Sunset said.
"Hey all you did was pitch to him an idea and rolled the dice right? Nothing wrong with that." Rainbow Dash said.
"Good point." Sunset Shimmer said. The group found the CMC in front of the library.
"Oh hey look; everypony's back from the gala." Apple Bloom said.
"Hey you four. What are you doing here?" Pinkie Pie asked.
"We were waiting on you guys actually. Well, to be more specific, we were waiting on Sunset Shimmer." Diamond Tiara said.
"Me? Why were you waiting on me?" Sunset Shimmer asked.
"This unicorn showed up at our clubhouse, and wanted us to bring you to her." Scootaloo said.
"Didn't ah tell you girls to not be listening to stranger?" Applejack asked.
"But sis, she told us that it's time Sunset met 'Glim-Glam'." Apple Bloom said. That got Sunset Shimmer's attention.
"Glim-Glam?! The name my brother kept using?! I was right. It was a pony." Sunset said.
"That's why we waited; this 'Glim-glam' wants to meet with Sunset Shimmer alone." Sweetie Belle said. Twilight opened her mouth but Sunset Shimmer put a hoof on her surrogate little sister.
"It'll be fine Twilight. If worst comes to worse, I can always use that spell..." Sunset said. Twilight nodded in understanding.
"Hey Scootaloo...do you mind hanging back for me? There's...some things I need to talk to you about." Rainbow Dash said.
"Of course Rainbow Dash. Your like the big sister I never had." Scootaloo said.
Oh boy...this is going to take a lot out of me, but I have to tell her... Rainbow Dash thought to herself.
"On that note..." Sunset Shimmer teleported her and the remaining CMC to their clubhouse.
"She's in there." Diamond Tiara said. Sunset Shimmer said and opened the door of the clubhouse.
Meanwhile...
"So...what'cha want to talk about Rainbow?" Scootaloo asked.
"This...is going to be a bit a long story. You know, I've always treated you like my little sister, and after everything I've had happen to me lately...I can't keep putting this off any longer." Rainbow Dash said and went to hug Scootaloo.
"Rainbow?" Scootaloo asked, confused.
"Hello...sister." Rainbow Dash said. "I should explain something: When I lost my mother to cancer a couple of years ago, she told me to look through our family photo amblem. There I saw something: Her, my father, and some orange pegasus filly all wrapped up. I recognized the face at once: It was you." Rainbow Dash said.
"But...that doesn't make any sense...why was I orphaned then?" Scootaloo asked. "Don't get me wrong, I love my foster family but...your telling me I was abandoned?" She asked.
"When I asked dad about it, he explained something I never thought I'd hear: They had every intention of introducing you to me the full first day I had as Cloudsdale's new weather manager. It was going to be their surprise instead of simply giving me that cake. But while they were at the cloudsdale mall, the stroller you were in rolled away and they couldn't find you after. Dad and mom were so shook about he said, that they just...couldn't enjoy that party they set up for my new position. That's just like them too: Always going above and beyond over little old me." Rainbow Dash said. "But I told dad something after he explained everything: That I found my little sis, and I would eventually work up the courage to tell her." She added.
"So wait...you mean...you and I really are..." Scootaloo's eyes were going wide.
"That's right Scoots; I'm your big sis. By blood even. Not sure if you ever want to meet dad but...trust me, he said he and mom tried everything they could to find you for a whole year. I suppose loyalty just runs in my blood. Didn't think it'd take me moving to Ponyville and you wanting to be just like me one day that would bring us together." Rainbow Dash said.
"Me neither sis...me neither." Scootaloo hugged her idol...no...her big sister.
"Trust me on this scoots: I'm not giving up on you. Someday, we'll get you up in the air. I don't know how we'll do it, but we'll do it." Rainbow Dash said.
"I know we will. Because when we put our minds to something, we get it done. Because that's how we are. And..." Scootaloo said. "I don't think I'd mind meeting dad dad..." Scootaloo said.
"That's the spirit squirt." Rainbow Dash said, smiling. "Now come on, let's rejoin the others." She added.
Back with Sunset, she entered the clubhouse only to find a lone unicorn mare, just waiting for her.
"Um...hi." Sunset said.
"Hey. Your Sunset Shimmer right? I was in Ponyville, and I couldn't help but overhear something you said in regards to your brother and the 'Glim-glam' you were looking for. How he would still consider 'Glim-Glam' his best friend in the entire world..." The unicorn mare said.
"Well anypony my brother gives a nickname too, I know he would consider them a best friend. And that's saying something, because there's only ever been that one nickname thrown out so much. That being Glim-Glam." Sunset Shimmer said. "I just wish that back then, when he first fussed about leaving Glim-Glam behind, I would've realized he was talking about a pony over a toy." She added.
"That's not your fault. I know it's not. I know this because I know Sunburst. Really well in fact." The unicorn mare said.
"What? What are you to him?" Sunset Shimmer asked.
"It's me..." The mare said. "I'm the 'Glim-Glam' he kept mentioning. My real name is Starlight Glimmer." She added. The moment Sunset heard Starlight mention her name "Glimmer" it clicked and Sunset's eyes went wide.
"I don't believe it...you...you really are Glim-Glam." Sunset said. "It all makes sense now...I feel so stupid. Maybe if I had listened more, Sunburst wouldn't be missing..." Sunset said.
"You mentioned that too. What are you going to do?" Starlight Glimmer asked.
"I have another reason to find my brother now. In fact, now more then ever, I need to find my brother." Sunset Shimmer said. "You wouldn't mind staying in Ponyville while I got further word out to keep an eye out for him, would you?" She asked.
"I don't mind at all. And...I'd like to get to know the sister of my best friend." Starlight Glimmer said.
"Heh...I feel the same way about you, 'Glim-Glam'." Sunset teased. The two laughed for a while at that little tease.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
           Season 2: Episode 9 - It's a Promise            
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 9 - It's a Promise
Sunset and Starlight took the next few days to get to really get to know one another. For both, it was kind of an ironic moment, getting to know the one person that neither one got to know until that point. For Sunset, it was understanding the pony that her brother called "Glim-Glam". For Starlight, it was getting to know the big sister Sunburst always said he had but never introduced the two.
"Do think things would've turned out differently if Sunburst had introduced us to one another?" Starlight asked.
"Maybe. And then maybe I wouldn't have been so verbally hard on him." Sunset said. "And then maybe he wouldn't have gone missing..." She trailed off a bit there.
"Stop." Starlight said. "I don't blame you for what happened. From what I understand, you said that he was failing pretty badly and was in danger of being downgraded after the mid-terms if he didn't pass." She added.
"Maybe, but I certainly didn't help." Sunset said.
"I don't think it would've mattered. Sure it didn't help but...maybe he just felt like he'd always be in your shadow and just could not take that any longer. Especially considering you were Princess Celestia's first student." Starlight said. "...Though I am a little curious as to why you decided to become a big sister figure to Twilight Sparkle." She added.
"It just felt right. I saw a lot of myself in Twilight: Somepony who wanted to do great things one day. And sure enough, I was right. And with the progress Twilight has made, I have to say, I can't be more proud of her." Sunset said. Speaking of her, Twilight then came right in.
"I see you two are getting along just fine." Twilight said. "I just wanted you to know Sunset, Princess Celestia is still looking for leads on her end, but so far no luck." She added.
"My brother must be a really good hider is no one has heard ANYTHING yet." Sunset said.
"You'll find him Sunset. I don't know how you will, but you will. Call it personal intuition." Starlight said.
"I was wondering if you would be moving into Ponyville Starlight; that way at least you could keep in touch with Sunset whenever you like." Twilight said.
"That...is a very good point. Plus I would like to try to get to know everyone here." Starlight said.
"That's a good plan. Especially considering some close friends of ours are also living in this area." Sunset said.
"I saw. I kind of overheard and seen somethings while I was passing through the area." Starlight said.
"Just so long as you stay true to yourself, you'll fit right in with each of them." Twilight said. "It'd be like you've always been part of our circle." She added.
"That does sound nice, being part of a circle of friends for a change..." Starlight said.
"Have you had troubles making friends?" Sunset asked.
"You...could say that." Starlight said.
"Well Sunset and I are still learning about friendship ourselves, so I think we can help one another out where needed." Twilight said.
"That's a great idea. Plus, it'd really help Starlight out too. Bonus!" Sunset said.
"Heh...if I didn't know any better, you two should be sisters." Starlight said.
"Hmm...gives me an idea for something. I'll have to do some research though." Twilight said.
"Just be sure you don't overwork yourself and end up staying up all night." Sunset said. "I do NOT want to wake up and find you with your head on the table and drooling because you stayed up all night for like the fifth time since we've been here." She added.
"You really take this big sister role seriously. It's nice that you'd do this sort of thing." Starlight said.
"Well I try." Sunset said. "I do promise you, no matter how long it takes, I will find my brother. Because now I have two people I'm searching for: You and my own mother." She said.
"I would like to meet your mother sometime. She sounds nice." Starlight said. "Well I think I should look to see what houses are available right now. Talk to you later." She added before leaving.
"Do you really believe you can uphold that promise?" Twilight asked.
"I have to. For my mother, and for Starlight." Sunset said. "It's a promise I can't afford to break." She added.
"I know." Twilight said.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
 Flashback: Memories of a Brother 2 - Malnourished Mother  
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Flashback: Memories of a Brother 2 - Malnourished Mother
That night, as she got ready for bed, Sunset couldn't help but remember the time she took some time to go visit her mother a month after becoming Twilight's surrogate big siser.
"But of course, it's a day I'll never forget..." Sunset said to herself.
One Month after Sunset met Twilight...
"Your going to go do what now?" Twilight asked her surrogate big sister.
"Well now that midterms are over, I wanted to take some time to check up on my mother back home. See how she's doing." Sunset told her surrogate little sister. "But I'll be back by the time the next semester starts up okay? You just be good and practice that magic of yours while I'm gone. I'd love for you to join me in Princess Celestia's School as soon as your of age to do so." Sunset said.
"The Summer Sun Celebration is happening while your gone Sunset. We were thinking of taking our daughter to the event." Twilight Velvet said.
"That's a great idea, you'll get to see Princess Celestia in person that way." Sunset said. She then went to grab her things and started leaving for the train, only to find her teacher there.
"You are worried about your mother, I could tell the moment you requested to go back to your village." Princess Celestia said.
"Yeah. Surely by now, word of my brother's disappearance has reached her." Sunset said. "...No one has found any clues yet though?" Sunset said.
"The royal guard keeps hitting dead ends, and admittedly, so am I. If only there was SOME clue he left behind." Princess Celestia said.
"Knowing my brother, he probably doesn't have some note saying 'go here if I don't think I can pass midterms' anywhere." Sunset said.
"It would make things easier if he did so." Princess Celestia said. Sunset giggled.
"Well I better go. I'll see you in two weeks Princess." Sunset said and left on the train.
Present Day...
"I had no idea what state my mother was in at that time...and once I knew...I had to do SOMETHING..." Sunset said.
The Past...
Sunset arrived at her home. "Mom, I'm home for two weeks." Sunset called out. She searched her home and found her mom, but she was very malnourished. "Oh no...MOM!" Sunset said.
Over the course of a few days, Sunset did her best to force feed her mom some food and even sent an emergency letter to her teacher explaining the situation. By the time the first week ended, the royal guard was there to take Sunset and her mother back to canterlot, where Sunset's mother was given more food to help bring the mare up to normal nurishment levels.
"It seems you were right to be worried about her." Princess Celestia said. "By the way, it seems you've made an impression on Twilight: She wants to join my school." She added.
"I have no objections, Princess. In fact, I hope she becomes your second student." Sunset said.
"This is a welcome surprise by you. You’re not afraid of her upstaging you?" Princess Celestia asked.
"Twilight has more magic then I could ever muster. I can sense it in her. I'm fine with her becoming your student alongside me. Plus, I'd get to spend a lot more time with Twilight that way." Sunset said.
"Your a strange one, Sunset Shimmer. But then again, your family is a bit strange: Your mother seems to have starved herself to this length because your brother went missing. And I don't need to remind you of that." Princess Celestia said.
"I have to find him; now more then ever." Sunset said. "I promise I will find him Princess; if not for me, then for my mother." Sunset said.
"I see. Then for the time being, I will move your mother to Canterlot. It'd be best for me to keep an eye on her, just so this won't happen again." Celestia said.
"Thank you Princess." Sunset said.
Present Day...
As Sunset hopped into bed, she silently reaffirmed her promise: She would find her brother, one way or another. If not for herself, it'd be for both her mother, and for the pony her brother referred to as "Glim-Glam" who Sunset has found out, is named Starlight Glimmer.
Author's Note
It's another Flashback Chapter! In this one, as you can see, Sunset flashes us back to the time when she had to force feed her own mother because the poor mare had starved herself and became malnourished as a result. As such, we see a dynamic between Sunset and Princess Celestia that I feel like we got jipped on in the original timeline.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Season 2: Episode 10 - Shadowbolts & Sisters        
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 10 - Shadowbolts & Sisters
"Your going to be where now?" Scootaloo asked her idol.
"Nearby ponyville. Luna’s got everything squared away for the Shadowbolts so now I can go to the new Shadowbolt HQ. I'll be right nearby at all times squirt, and I'll be doing my best to help you train when I can. But can you wait for me after practice today? It's time I told you a little something about yourself." Rainbow Dash said. "It's important." She added.
"Sure thing. See you after then." Scootaloo said then Rainbow Dash left. The other crusaders soon joined her.
"What's that about?" Diamond Tiara asked.
"Rainbow Dash has been mentoring me in flying lessons. That's really all." Scootaloo said. Spoiled Rich was there too as the crusaders were going to have a group study session outdoors about family bounds.
"Why are you taking these flying lessons?" Spoiled Rich couldn't help but ask.
"Mom, don't ask something that could be so personal." Diamond Tiara said. Scootaloo just smiled and then got off the ground; hovering for a good while in the air before coming back down.
"I've managed to get up to a nice hover. I really just want to work on my stamina before I really start flying. That's why Rainbow Dash agreed to be my mentor, to help me improve my stamina. I want to be able to fly as well as Rainbow Dash one day, and I'm going to need all the endurance I can muster to do that." Scootaloo said.
"Wow Scootaloo...is that why sometimes you break away from us? If it was for flight training, you could've just said something." Apple Bloom said.
"I'm sorry." Scootaloo said.
"It's fine Scoots; nothing to be ashamed of." Sweetie Belle said.
"I think it's nice you want to improve yourself." Diamond Tiara said.
"I agree. But...are you sure you want to fly as well as Rainbow Dash?" Spoiled Rich asked.
"But of course. Rainbow Dash is awesome. I don't know if she has a sister, but I know if I was her sister, it'd be the most awesome thing in the world." Scootaloo said.
Meanwhile in a picnic between Twilight, Sunset, Starlight, Fluttersy, Discord, and Pinkie Pie, the pink party pony's body started vibrating. Only this time, it was a lot more noticable then ever before.
"Pinkie Pie, what's going now? What doozy are you sensing now?" Sunset asked.
"I think my Pinkie Sense is picking up the mother of all doozies..." Pinkie Pie said.
Of course Rainbow Dash had arrived right on time, and a full 15 minutes ahead of everyone that wasn't Night Wing; causing the captain to blink.
"You're...quite a bit early..." Night Wing said.
"Better to be early then late. One time, I almost was late to work at the weather factory and it almost cost me my promotion to manager. I managed to get there just two seconds before I was supposed to clock in so I went and did that too. Since then, I've always made it a point to arrive at least 15 minutes early. I can't be late to something I'm already around for after all." Rainbow Dash said.
"Huh...I guess if that's your thing, I'm not going to dock you for it. We're so close though, I actually expected you to be 30 minutes early instead of just 15." Night Wing said.
"Just having to talk to someone whose really important to me. As soon as I was old enough, I moved out of my parents home which was two years after they had admitted to a certain thing. A certain thing that goes against everything I stand. So I left home and moved here to Ponyville." Rainbow Dash said. "Mostly because, this is where I found out, is where someone really important to me living in the orphanage here. The last one there too. And wouldn't you know it, that special pony to me asked me to become their mentor. Considering who they are to me, I decided to go ahead and just do that. The time is right after practice today for me to tell the truth..." She said.
"You really are the element of loyalty. If it's alright with you...I think I'd like for all the Shadowbolts to be there when you tell this special pony of yours the truth." Night Wing said.
"That would mean a lot to me, captain." Rainbow Dash said. "And I'm sure she'll get a kick out of it too." She added with a smile.
A few hours later, after practice and everyone was introduced; which did include Thunderlane as Luna had mentioned; it was time for Rainbow Dash to find Scootaloo who was waiting near Sugarcube corner, with the picnic goers watching.
"There's a really big doozy coming..." Pinkie Pie said.
"You've mentioned that several times as we've waited..." Twilight said. Soon Rainbow Dash and the Shadowbolts showed up which made Scotaloo get awestruck.
"Whoa...so those are the other Shadowbolts. I'm honored you'd bring them here, Rainbow." Scootaloo said. Rainbow Dash smiled and put a hoof around Scootaloo.
It's time. No more hiding. Rainbow Dash thought to herself. "Scootaloo, I want you to listen very closely to me. And I want to let you know, you mean a lot more to me then you realize squirt." Rainbow Dash said.
"Well I guess since you've been mentoring me so much, I guess it only makes sense you'd decide to become my surrogate sister." Scootaloo said.
"I'm afraid I can't really do that Scoots. But not because I don't want to. But because I can't exactly become the surrogate to someone who has a sister already." Rainbow Dash said. This made everyone go wide eyed.
"I...I have a sister? Do you know where she is?" Scootaloo asked.
"Scootaloo, allow me to tell you something special. Two years before I left home, my parents told me that they had a second child. But because they just didn't have the money to raise two kids, they sent who was supposed to be my little sister to Ponyville Orphanage. Which is why, as soon as I was old enough, I moved here to ponyville." Rainbow Dash said.
"Oh...she must be something special..." Scootaloo said.
"I'm not finished Scoots. Now then, after finding out where the orphanage was, I decided to do what any big sister should do, and watch over her always. Not wanting to leave her sight for a moment. And when she finally approuched me, asking me about flying, I couldn't have been happier." Rainbow Dash said.
"I guess you would huh?" Scootaloo asked. "But why are you telling me this?" She asked.
"I'm telling you this Squirt because the one who my parents betrayed and the one who I refused to leave behind; the one who asked me about flying; the very one whose become the last foal at that orphanage...is you." Rainbow Dash said. "Scootaloo, I can't be your surrogate big sister...because I already AM your biological big sister." She added. At that moment, everyone's jaws dropped, even Pinkie Pie's after her body spasm.
"You...you mean...this whole time..." Scootaloo said.
"I told you you meant more to me then you realized Scoots. My only regret is that it took me so long to tell you. But I figured now was the time. Because I want you to know...I'll always have your back. Like a good big sister should." Rainbow Dash said. Scootaloo started crying.
"Wh-why am I crying?" Scootaloo said through the tears. "I shouldn't be crying..." She added. Her big sister pulled Scootaloo into a wing hug.
"It's alright sis. Cry as much as you like. I'll be here for every tear drop you shed. I promise." Rainbow Dash said.
A lot of tears were shed that day, not just by Scootaloo. Everyone who had seen this scene also began to cry, even the Lord of Chaos Discord.
The two Pegasus sisters were at long last reunited. And it was a very touching scene to behold.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
         Season 2: Episode 11 - One Star, two Suns         
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 11 - One Star, two Suns
"...And then he just barely caught the books from tumbling on me. That's when your mom sent him to Canterlot. Which was just outright unfair." Starlight said, telling Sunset about the day Sunburst was forced to leave.
"Mom actually forced him to leave? Ugh...she did the same thing with me. But at least I actually WANTED to go. My brother though...as soon as I arrived in Canterlot, I had a weird feeling in my gut that my brother wouldn't be able to handle that kind of autmosphere. I really wish I could've told mom to keep him down with you. Maybe then he wouldn't be missing." Sunset said.
"She's not the one that caused him to leave, and I don't think you did anything that caused him to leave either." Starlight said.
"I certainly didn't help; telling him repeatedly to get over a toy not realizing he was talking about a living breathing pony." Sunset said.
"You simply did not know at the time. And besides, I don't think that as a contributing factor." Starlight said.
"Why are you so sure?" Sunset asked.
"Because your his sister. It'd take something much more major then you getting him upset more over the fact he can't see me everyday." Starlight said.
"True. Though...there is one thing related to me that could have played a big part in his disappearance." Sunset said.
"What could that possibly be?" Starlight asked.
"I think you were the only real friend my brother even had." Sunset said. "Because while I was still back home, people were always seeing him as the baby brother of the filly who had a lot of magic in her." She added. "Which made it hard for him to have friends." She concluded.
"Oh. I see. Guess that would make him feel a bit overshadowed. You really think that's it though? That he left everything because he felt that so long as he was attached to you, he'd never get any real friends?" Starlight asked.
"Something like that." Sunset said.
"Yeah I guess I can see that. Still, is that really the most you could come up with?" Starlight asked.
"Let's be honest with ourselves: We both have no clue why he split. I've covered every possibly theory in my head, but ultimately, I won't know the answer until I find him and ask him. It's been so long..." Sunset said. "...Will I even recognize my own brother when I see him?" She asked.
"I have a good feeling you will." Starlight said, hugging Sunset; causing the Orange Mare to smile.
"...I think I understand why my brother saw you has his best friend so much now." Sunset said.
Twilight arrived, with some furniture.
"Phew...Spike is over with Sweetie Belle and I got some more stuff for Starlight to be able to sleep here." Twilight said.
"I wonder how my brother will react to me becoming a surrogate sister?" Sunset asked.
"I think he'll understand." Starlight said.
"I suppose your right." Sunset said.
"Your only older then her by two years. You think her and your brother will get along?" Starlight asked.
"They kind of have to. If they don't and my brother forces me to choose between the two of them, then I will go with Twilight." Sunset said. "I love my brother, don't get me wrong, but he's the one who went missing for going on 12 years now and everything like that." She added.
"That's interesting, and I can understand that." Starlight said.
"I'm surprised your okay with that." Sunset said.
"He's been gone for twelve years like you said. At this point, Twilight is more your sibling then he ever was. But I don't think Sunburst would do that to you. If he does, that's just mean." Starlight said.
"Provided he's even still alive." Sunset said.
"Nothing has proven he isn't alive." Starlight said.
"True. But every day that passes lowers the chances more and more." Sunset said.
"Maybe, but even if the odds are against us for finding him alive and well, Sunburst won't go down so easy." Starlight said.
"Good point." Sunset said.
Author's Note
Just a wholesome chapter that is also a bit shorter then normal. I was struggling to keep going with this one anyways.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
    Season 2: Episode 12 - When Royalties Visit Part 1     
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 12 - When Royalties Visit Part 1
Stepping off the train, one Prince Blueblood made a beeline straight for Rarity's fashion beautique and did his sister-in-law a service by knocking before entering.
"It's open." Rarity's voice came from within. Blueblood wasted no time in coming inside seeing his sister-in-law finishing up a special design; obviously for his niece's date with Spike the Dragon coming up soon. "Oh! Blueblood. You here a bit early. Sweetie Belle and her friends aren't really here yet." Rarity said.
"That's fine. It'll be a nice surprise. I am interested in these Cutie Mark Crusaders myself." Blueblood said. Suddenly the CMC burst into the door with Spoiled Rich right behind them.
"Oh! Prince Blueblood. It's an honor." Spoiled Rich said.
"The honor should be all his, right Blueblood?" Rarity asked.
"Um...don't you mean to call him Prince Blueblood?" Spoiled Rich asked. Sweetie Decided to answer for her sister.
"You here visiting, Uncle Blue?" Sweetie Belle asked. That caught Spoiled Rich off guard.
"Uncle...Blue?" Spoiled Rich asked.
"You didn't know? Rarity's husband; Lucky Belle; was the half-brother of Prince Blueblood." Diamond Tiara said. That information made Spoiled Rich's jaw drop.
Talk about going three for three here. Apple Bloom is related to Granny Anny Smith; one of my husband's most influential business partners. Scootaloo is the sister of the upcoming Shadowbolt member Rainbow Dash. And now Sweetie Belle is the niece of one Prince Blueblood. What is with these three fillies and having connections like these? Spoiled Rich thought to herself.
"Please, if you three young fillies want to simply call me Blueblood, because your friends with my niece, I'll allow it." Blueblood said.
"And there it is...Uncle Blue's usual way of spoiling me and those related to me." Sweetie Belle said.
"Well I'd rather the daughter of my half-brother be spoiled then to wind up as a bad mare." Blueblood said.
"Your such a kidder Uncle Blue." Sweetie Belle said.
"What's with the nickname?" Apple Bloom said.
"It's just a little something Sweetie Belle decided to call me. And I honestly find myself enjoying it. Maybe a little too much though." Blueblood said. That got Spoiled Rich's attention.
"Why do you say that?" Spoiled Rich asked.
"I just never thought I would end up being an uncle in the kind of position that I am in. Lucky Belle should be proud that he got to have you as a daughter." Blueblood said.
"...I'm just wondering if your sure that she is Lucky Belle's daughter and also that Lucky Belle is even related to you..." Spoiled Rich said. That made pratically everyone in the room gasp, and Blueblood to get up in Spoiled Rich's face.
"Just who do you think you are, going around saying something like that?!" Blueblood exclaimed.
"Mom...stop...your causing a scene." Diamond Tiara said. "I'm sorry for my mother's little outburst there, Mr. Blueblood sir. Of course your more then sure of everything. Knowing you, you double and triple checked everything." Diamond Tiara said.
"Well at least your daughter is more well mannered. Your quite correct there little missy: I double and triple checked everything. Sometimes being a prince has it's advantages." Blueblood said.
"I bet it does, but it can probably get really boring sometimes huh? I bet even you need a break from time to time considering how much Sunset and Twilight both say that Celestia is swamped with paper work on a daily basis." Diamond Tiara said.
"You know it little missy. That's actually why I'm here: To take a nice break from all that madness for a good while. Hey, maybe I should hang out with you kids for today." Blueblood said.
"Really? You'd do that Uncle Blue?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"But of course my dear Niece." Blueblood said.
"In that case, there's somewhere we got to take the prince first." Scootaloo said.
"Ah get what your puttin' down." Apple Bloom said.
"Crusader road trip to the clubhouse!" Diamond Tiara said. She noticed she was the only one that said it. "...Well it is..." Diamond Tiara said.
"True but that just sounds totally plain. Not gonna lie." Scootaloo said.
"I tried." Diamond Tiara said.
"And that's the important thing." Apple Bloom said. Diamond Tiara smiled and the four fillies plus one prince headed for the CMC clubhouse.
"...Those four are just full of energy huh?" Rarity asked. "But Spoiled Rich, maybe I should make one thing clear: The next time you do that to my brother-in-law, I will be informing your husband of your behavior. Understood?" She asked. That made Spoiled Rich gulp.
"O-of course Mrs. Rarity Belle...whatever you say miss..." Spoiled Rich said. She had never seen such a scary looking mare before, and now that she was seeing a very peeved off Rarity, she would make sure she would not again.
A lone figure stepped off the next train that came into Ponyville; their entire identity hidden behind a cloak.
"...I've made it..." The figure said. "So, this is Ponyville, home of Sunset Shimmer, the brother of Sunburst." The figure said. "...I hope I find Sunset soon, I have very important information to tell her regarding her brother. Word on the street is that she's been looking for her brother, and I happen to know exactly where he's fled." The figure said.
TO BE CONTINUED

//-------------------------------------------------------//
    Season 2: Episode 13 - When Royalties Visit Part 2     
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 13 - When Royalties Visit Part 2
"You know, I really hope somepony out there knows where my big brother went off to. It'd help a whole bunch." Sunset said. "For now, I am content where I am." She added. Suddenly the library doorbell was rung.
"I got it." Twilight said. In the doorway was a hodded figure.
"Is this the Golden Oak Library; residence for one Sunset Shimmer?" The figure asked.
"It is. She's currently having tea right now though." Twilight said.
"That's fine. I wouldn't mind some tea myself after how far I've traveled." The figure said.
"Um...is there something important you need Sunset for?" Twilight asked.
"You could say that; word on the street is that she's looking for where her brother, Sunburst, ran off to." The figure said. "It just so happens, I know exactly where he's ran off to." They said.
Upon hearing this, Sunset dropped the tea cup she was holding and then suddenly rushed to the door.
"YOU KNOW WHERE SUNBURST IS?!" Sunset exclaimed. "Well don't just stand there, come on in!" She added.
"I'll go grab the girls..." Twilight said.
"This tea is quite lovely. Thank you for allowing me to have some." The robed figure said.
"So, yer certain you know where Sunset's brother ran off to? Ah don't know if we should be trusting the word of one whose keepin' their identity a secret." Applejack said.
"That's not important. I'll take whatever information I can get at this point." Sunset said.
"You have nothing to fear from me. I am not one who lies. In fact, I was probably the only person to witness where Sunset's brother ran off to to begin with." The figure said.
"I say we trust her for now. If she was a bad pony, she'd have attacked us by now." Rainbow Dash said. The figure chuckled.
"It's good. So, as for Sunburst's location..." The figure said.
"Right. Go ahead." Sunset said.
"As soon as I saw him running through the halls in Celestia's castle, I made it my priority to follow him. Soon he entered a room that had a mirror that I've only ever seen Celestia bring few ponies to. That's when the strangest thing occurred: Sunburst walked through the mirror as if it was some kind of portal and left behind a destruction charge." The figure said.
"Destruction charge? Your certain?" Sunset asked.
"What's a destruction charge?" Twilight asked.
"It's something Celestia banned from use recently." Sunset said. "I guess now I know why if she found this mirror portal in pieces." She added.
"Mind fillin' in those of us who don't know what those are?" Applejack asked.
"A destruction charge is meant to destroy magical objects; reducing them to a state to where they cannot be used." Sunset said.
"Which is why after a boom, the mirror was left in shards that scattered to the floor." The figure said.
"Ah still don't know if ah can fully trust one who keeps their idenity a mystery." Applejack said.
"If I do show you my identity, you must not tell Princess Celestia that one of my kind is here." The figure said.
"Why? What's wrong with your kind? Your a pony right?" Sunset asked.
"No." The figure then removed the hood of the robe they were wearing. What stared back at the main six was a creature that was very much NOT a pony.
"What...are you?" Sunset asked.
"My name is Amare; and I am a Changeling Princess." The creature said.
"Changeling? What's a changeling?" Pinkie Pie asked.
"I'm not exactly sure what one looked like; I only knew the name. Because technically speaking, Changelings are supposed to be banned from being in Equestria." Sunset said.
"You wanted to know about your brother. And I would sooner risk my neck then have you continue wondering around aimlessly." Amare said.
"Well, for now, I suppose you can stay for a while, but as soon as you can, you gotta get out of town before Celestia decided to drop by for a visit." Sunset said.
"Three days. That's how long I need to stay for." Amare said.
"Three days is not that long." Sunset said.
"Besides, it's not like I'll be running around looking like this all the time." Amare said. Suddenly green flames envoloped her and she was suddenly now a yellow unicorn pony with a green heart for a cutie mark.
"What the...Amare, is that you?" Applejack asked.
"It's changeling specific magic. All of us can shapeshift. Whether that be into an already existing pony or into an entirely new pony altogether. And this is my personal go-to Pony form." Amare said.
"Is that whole disguising yourself as an already pony a real thing?" Applejack asked.
"I personally don't do it, but there are changelings who do. It's because love is our food." Amare said. "We need it to survive and live." Amare said.
"Well stick around for a bit Amare; so long as your here, we'll treat you like your our friend." Sunset said.
"I would like that." Amare said.
Author's Note
For readers of "My Little Pony: Changeling of Friendship", you should know that Amare was the original concept idea for that story's main Protoganist Amiticia the Changeling of Friendship. Well here's the thing, that story as well as Amare would not have existed without Mittopia on Switch. The Miitopia Demo on switch is nearly identical to the one from the 3DS, but in addition to the normal content from the 3DS Miitopia Demo, the Switch Demo also includes you getting the horse just before the end of the demo. Believe it or not, but with JH Rob, there was going to be a horse companion originally, but I scrapped that idea. It wasn't until I played that Switch Demo that I had an excuse to dig through the bin where all my scrapped ideas were sent off to. As such, the original concept behind what would become Amiticia was in that scrapped ideas bin. Amare just so happens to have been that same scrapped concept idea that inspired Amiticia; the star of my story "My Little Pony: Changeling of Friendship" so readers of that story can see where the concept idea that inspired Amiticia came from.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 14 - A Canterlot Wedding (WFS Version) Part 1
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 14 - A Canterlot Wedding (WFS Version) Part 1
Three days have passed since Amare had appeared. During that time, she had gotten to know the elements quite well.
Twilight had even made very high regards to Celestia without revealing Amare's true nature.
Still, the time came when Amare's three-day stay was coming to an end. Yet, Amare didn't seem to be worried about going very far.
It soon became apparent when Twilight and her friends were invited to the wedding of Shining Armor, Twilight's older brother and only real biological sibbling.
Sunset was only too glad to help fill in some details about Twilight's BBBFF; which gave the rest of the elements where Twilight took to calling Sunset her BSBFF or Big Sister Best Friend forever. They easily took BBBFF to mean "Big Brother Best Friend Forever".
Shockingly of all, Amare was allowed to join the elements at the wedding. Which suited the disguised Changeling Princess just fine.
Here it is...the Wedding... Amare thought to herself on the train ride over to Canterlot. Three days of hanging out and gaining trust with the elements is coming to its conclusion at said wedding. I must do what I can to stop my biological mother before she ends up dooming not just Ponies, but changelings as well. Amare added to her thoughts.
A bit later, Twilight was informed by her brother that he was marrying Cadence.
"The best foal sitter ever." Twilight noted.
"Not gonna lie, she was quite nice." Sunset said, smiling. "So, shall we go get reintroduced to her?" She addded
"Why not?" Twilight said. The surrogate sisters found Twilight's future sister-in-law. "Cadence, it's very good to see you!" Twilight said.
"It's nice to see you too but...who is this beside you?" Cadence asked.
"C'mon Cadence, I know it's been a while since we last saw each other but you should remember me. It's me, Sunset Shimmer. Remember?" Sunset asked. She got a bit worried since Shining had told them there was an anonymous tip that changelings were going to infiltrate the wedding.
"Oh. Yes, I apologize. I suppose the upcoming wedding has me a bit stressed that I must not have recognized you." Cadence said.
"It's understandable Cadence. But before I let you off..." Twilight started doing that dance thing Sunset knew all too well. "Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake; clap your hooves and do a little shake!" She said. But Cadence did not join in the dance and that got the attention of both unicorn mares and even Shining Armor that time.
"Cadence, are you feeling okay? I can let not recognizing Sunset slide but that on top of it? C'mon, your surely not that stressed out about this, right?" Shining Armor asked.
"I...apologize...I'm just feeling so well right now. I think it's pre-wedding jitters getting to me...excuse me..." Cadence said and ran off.
"...Okay..." Twilight said.
"Listen, something is up. Twilight, you and the girls focus on this wedding, I'm going to explore Canterlot and see what I can find." Sunset said.
"Okay. You be careful sis." Twilight said.
"I will." Sunset said. But then...
"Sunset?" A female voice said. Suddenly up came not just Twilight and Shining Armor's Parents but also...
"MOM!" Sunset said running over to the other unicorn adult mare there.
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"It's nice to see you so soon. Is this about the wedding?" Sunset's mother asked.
"Yes mom. It is." Sunset said. She turned towards Shining Armor and Twilight. "Shining Armor, Twilight Sparkle...this is my mother, Steller Flare." she added.
"It's a pleasure to meet you at last, Twilight Sparkle." Steller Flare said.
"Where's your husband?" Shining Armor asked.
"Dad sort of divorced mom shortly after Sunburst was sent to Celestia's School forcibly by mother here. We haven't seen hide nor hare of him since then." Sunset said, a bit saddened.
"Oh. That's disappointing." Twilight said.
"I didn't know what to do without him there to support me when Sunburst vanished. I'm just glad my daughter had you both to help her through that tough time. As far as I'm concerned, your just as much as my children as Sunset is. Both of you." Steller Flare said.
"It was mostly just Twily here but I do appreciate the thought." Shining Armor said.
"Mom, I'm going to explore Canterlot for a while. I'll be back before the wedding starts, I promise." Sunset said.
"Keeping an eye out for those invading changelings?" Steller Flare asked.
"...That would help out actually. I don't know if any got in before the shield went up." Shining Armor admitted.
"All the more reason for me to explore Canterlot then." Sunset said.
"Right. Sunset, you can do that then. I trust you. Me and the rest of my friends will help organize things for the wedding. I hope to have a rehersal for the wedding in three hours though. Think you can make it?" Twilight asked.
"I'll do my best." Sunset said and left.
"Well then, your parents and I will be enjoying some time chatting until the rehersal. I think there's much we have to learn about our families since my daughter has decided to become a big sister to you, Twilight." Steller Flare mentioned before the parents all left.
"Well Twily I'm glad you're so focused on organizing this for me." Shining Armor said.
"Well Celestia wanted me to do so so..." Twilight said.
"Actually Twilight, I was hoping you'd be my best mare." Shining Armor said.
"M-ME?!" Twilight exclaimed.
"Of course, I'm counting on you, LSBFF!" Shining Armor said. Twilight was practically filled with glee as she glomped her brother.
Sunset came across Amare who had just left Applejack's side.
"Sunset, don't ask any questions..." Amare then whispered in Sunset's ear. "Go to the Canterlot Mines underneath the castle. The rest will be made clear when you go down there." She whispered.
"I trust you, Amare." Sunset said and went down into the mines. There, she discovered...Cadence?!
"Sunset Shimmer? It's been a while..." Cadence said.
"You do recognize me after all." Sunset said.
"Oh...oh no...that means you've met her..." Cadence said. "Sunset, listen to me...you need to get me out of here. The 'Cadence' you met earlier wasn't me." She added. "Remember this? Sunshine Shine, ladybugs awake..." Cadence started the dance and Sunset joined in.
"Clap your hooves and do a little shake!" Sunet added on. "So, I was right, there was something off about the you I met earlier." Sunset said.
"Who you met earlier was really Queen Chrysalis of the badlands hive. A tyrant Changeling Queen out to enslave all of ponykind." Cadence said.
"We have to stop her! I'll get you out of here!" Sunset said. "If we hurry, we should be able to make it to the rehearsal!" Sunset said. Cadence nodded and followed after Sunset.
Author's Note
I may have skipped over the period of time Amare was staying with the elements, but I do hope that the meeting between Twilight and Stellar Flare more than made up for it. Also, this is beyond a shadow of a doubt, the easiest rewrite I've made of all the rewrites I've done. Mainly because of how easy it was to make nothing here seem out of character for any single individual, including Sunset and Shining Armor. This is most likely due to the prologue's existence establishing the fact that both Shining Armor and Cadence are very familiar with Sunset Shimmer and there's no doubt that even though Sunset is just a surrogate sister to Twilight, Cadence would've done the same dance with Sunset as she did with Twilight. Hence why I don't feel like anything feels out of character in this first part. Because everything is easily believable.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 15 - A Canterlot Wedding (WFS Version) Part 2
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 15 - A Canterlot Wedding (WFS Version) Part 2
"The rehearsal is just about to start. Where is Sunset?" Rainbow Dash asked. "I swear if she found a changeling and has been taking it head on without us..." She added. Suddenly Sunset burst through the doors. She wasn't alone though.
"What is this?" Celestia said, genuinly confused.
"You must listen, the Cadence next to Shining Armor is a changeling in disguise!" Sunset said. Celestia opened her mouth but instead of saying anything, twilight began the dance.
"Sunshine, Sunshine, Ladybugs awake..." Twilght began.
"Clap your hooves and do a little shake!" The Cadence next to Sunset finished off, joining in the dance. But the one next to Shining Armor would not budge an inch.
"That would explain everything then. Ah thought something was off when I noticed that the same apple treats that this other Cadence tasted were thrown into the trash." Applejack said.
"Now that you mention it dear Applejack, the same can be said about what the bride dress I made. Cadence practically demanded to have me remake it and made it much more green in color when the bride's dress is SUPPOSED to be white." Rarity chimed in.
"Not to mention the hard work that I put into the wedding games for her and shining armor to play at the reception!" Pinkie Pie said. "She said they were made for little kids. While that's true, they are also fun!" She added. Now the 'Cadence' next to Shining Armor had a dark look on her face.
"All this behavior has been pilling up all day. And I know my friends wouldn't lie about this stuff. One of them is even the element of honesty for crying out loud!" Rainbow Dash said.
"And anyone whose been behaving like that is not willing to be kind to others, let alone her own supposed future husband." Fluttershy said. The obviously fake Cadence still refused to say anything.
"Well if you have something to say in your defense, now would be a good time to say it." Twilight pointed out to the fake cadence.
"How the hell did you find her..." The fake cadence said.
"...I beg your pardon?" Celestia asked. Suddenly Shining Armor was drained of a bit of love before the fake cadence revealed who she really was. "QUEEN CHRYSALIS!" Celestia shouted, and got into a battle pose. "I thought I made it clear that you were banished from Equestria!" She added. The changeling queen laughed.
https://camo.fimfiction.net/r4NCy5tD8ELqiKff-NUl4HY48jcYiOZ0mUqx7vsOg0U?url=http%3A%2F%2Fimg1.wikia.nocookie.net%2F__cb20130918083453%2Fsuper-smash-bros-iv-fanfiction%2Fimages%2F0%2F01%2FChrysalis.png
"Do you really believe I've just been sitting by, twildling my hooves while I waited for our rematch, Princess Celestia?" Queen Chrysalis asked. "No, I've been draining love here and there in secret. All so I could finally defeat you in a rematch!" She added. Suddenly, she was hit with a magic blast, curtesy of Amare.
"If you think you are going to enslave ponies, think again mother!" Amare said before revealing her true self.
"AMARE?! What the hell are you doing here?" Chrysalis was geniually confused at the sight of her own daughter here.
"Amare's mother is Queen Chrysalis?" Sunset asked for confirmation.
"Some mother she is. She's some petty tyrant. Her plan to enslave ponies will not only destroy their race, but doom all of changeling kind in the process! And ever since I found out about it, I have bent over backwards to stop that from happening." Amare said. "You really should stop relying so much on the Hive Mind mother. Because you let all your plants slip. As such, I knew every counter to them." She added.
"The anonymous tipster that alerted us to a chageling invasion...that was you?!" Celestia exclaimed.
"That's not the only thing she did..." Sunset said. "She told me where to find the real Mi Amore Cadenza, AKA Princess Cadence." She added.
"You...you used my own invasion plot against me?!" Queen Chrysalis exclaimed.
"I won't allow you to complete a plan that will not only make ponies extinct, but also doom Changeling kind as well. So, I hearby challenge you for the right to the Badlands Hive crown here and now mother!" Amare said. The forcefield suddenly fell.
"Ha! I think not! Changelings, to action!" Queen Chrysalis called out. But nothing happened. Everyone waited for a bit with baited breath for something to happen but...nothing did. "What is the meaning of this?!" Chrysalis excalimed.
"Did you forget your own rules mother?" Amare asked. "Remind me mother, what does Changeling Law number 20 state again?" She asked.
"...No changeling may interupt a challenge for the hive crown under the threat of death. And of course, there's also Changeling Law number 21, where if a challenge for the crown is had, no laws can be added, removed, or amended until after the challenge is completed." Chrysalis said.
"Don't forget Changeling Law Number 22, which states that laws 20 & 21 even apply to challenges being done outside the changeling hive." Amare said.
"Using my own laws against me like this...you've clearly given me every disadvantage possible." Chrysalis said.
"And don't forget, according to Changeling Law Number 23, which states that fleeing the challenge before an outright winner is detirmined counts as a forfiet." Amare said. "And I have no intention of running away from this. It's time you answer for your crimes mother. Here and now with Princess Celestia, Princess Cadence, and the chosen of the elements of harmony as our witnesses." She added.
"Fine! So be it! I accept your challenge head on. On one condition: It's just you and me. No one can join your side just like they can't join mine." Chrysalis said. "Otherwise, I will consider it an automatic forfeit on your end." She added.
"That's more then fine by me." Amare said, smiling. The challenge was very one sided though, but in Amare's favor. It was becoming very clear very quickly that the Princess was upstaging her own mother.
"I don't understand...I drained many animals of their love...and even drained Shining Armor of a bit of love he had for Princess Cadence, and yet I am losing to my own daughter..." Chrysalis said.
"Because mother, the love that I am being powered by is not one taken through theft, but rather given freely even if the elements didn't know they were giving me love so freely." Amare said. "What you are being on the end of is three days' worth of freely giving love by doing the simplest thing in the world: Just hanging out and enjoying the company of these ponies. And bare in mind mother, this is just three days' worth. Who knows what could happen after a month or even a year of such freely given love?" She explained before launching a blast that destroyed Chyraslis's own crown.
"! My crown! Your powerful enough to the point where you can destroy my own crown?!" Chrysalis exclaimed.
"Actually...even I'm surprised I managed to do that." Amare admitted. Chrysalis gulped. "No matter, you know the rules...until you either flee or surrender, the challenge does not end." Amare added.
"Stop! Just stop!" Chrysalis said. "Enough is enough. You've made your point. There's no winning for me. Not with how powerful you've gotten in such a short time. It's clear to me, that my time as queen of the Badlands hive has reached it's end. I regrettably, but honorably hand the reigns over to you. Amare...somehow, you've figured something out...and it's worked wonders. I suppose if you are calling the shots, the future of our hive is looking bright." She added before she took off her damaged crown. "...And that, is something I can live with." Chrysalis threw her crown at her daughters feet. "I have no regrets for this outcome. I will find a way to survive on my own. But this will be the last you ever hear of me." Chrysalis said and then teleported away. Amare picked up her mother's damaged crown and put it on without a word.
"Princess Amare...no...I should call you Queen Amare of the Badland Hive..." Celestia said. "I don't know how to thank you for what you've done for me. For us all." She added. "I will have the ban on changelings removed at once. And I think we have diplomatic matters to discuss once the wedding is finished." Celestia pointed out.
"Princess Celestia...I thank you for letting my people live alongside your people freely. I Truely believe moving forwards; our races can come to some kind of understanding." Amare said.
"I agree with your statement. So, shall we do the wedding properly now? I think it's time you and your kind step out of the shadows once and for all." Celestia said. Amire smiled.
"Thank you, Princess." Amare said.
"It is Equestria that should be thanking you, Queen Amare." Celestia said.
The wedding was able to be done without any further problems. Who knows what the future holds from here?
Author's Note
And this does it for season 2. But the story is not finished yet. Stay tuned for Season 3 which will include not just the crystal empire stuff, Twilight's alicornation, and the final two "Memories of a Brother" episodes, but also, it's finally time for brother and sister to meet after a long time away from one another; yet not on friendly terms. Stay tuned for all this and more in Season Three of "My Little Pony: When Friendship Shimmers".

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Season 2 Epilogue Scene - Prelude to a Score        
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2 Epilogue Scene - Prelude to a Score
What was seemingly a normal day would be interrupted out of nowhere when a giant earthquake suddenly covered the entire world.
But little would anyone realize; this quake would mark one instance where things would get...interesting to say the least.
TO BE CONTINUED IN THE LAST MLP AU CROSSOVER EVENT...
ONE LAST SCORE
Author's Note
To see the beginning of the final crossover event, check here: Crossover #4: One Last Score Part 1 - MLP AU Crossover Specials - Fimfiction (https://www.fimfiction.net/story/493250/13/mlp-au-crossover-specials/crossover-4-one-last-score-part-1)

//-------------------------------------------------------//
          Season 3 Prologue - Empire Preparations          
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3 Prologue - Empire Preparations
"I have been rebuilding the mirror that Sunburst destroyed, yes. But it'll still take a bit of time." Celestia noted.
"But once it's rebuilt, I can go see if Sunburst is okay on the other side of the mirror at least...right?" Sunset asked.
"I know how much it will mean to your mother for peace of mind, so I will allow it. But right now, there is something else that needs you attention. Queen Amare, if you would please?" Celestia said.
"My changelings have spotted the Crystal Empire. It seems that you were right to know it would reappear soon." Amare said.
"So what's up with the Crystal Empire?" Twilight asked.
"The crystal empire was once a place where love and light spread like wildfire. But, one day, an evil stallion known as Sombra had turned the empire's ruler; Princess Mi Amore; into a Statue before shattering said statue into thousands of pieces. Sombra then took over the Crystal Empire and became a cold and cruel tyrant king, forcing the Crystal Ponies into slavery. When me and my sister confronted him, he simply said that he was fulfilling his destiny." Celestia said.
"Which is why we banished the tyrant king to the Frozen north about three months before Discord suddenly appeared. But before he was fully banished, Sombra cast a curse on the empire, hiding it away from the public eye." Luna added to the tale.
"Which is why I wanted to know when the empire would return. And the timing couldn't have been more strange: Shortly after we had managed to deal with the Soltice situation, the Crystal Empire has chosen to return." Celestia said.
"That version of me I met during the Soltice incident said they were farther along in time then us. That one even mentioned how there was a version of Sombra that apperently was good." Celestia said.
"Are you referring to me?" A male voice called out. Cozy Glow soon showed up with the QoS version of the stallion in question. "It's obvious that this version of me in your world is much different then mine. With some help, I got to see the motivation and it seems that this version of me saw themselves becoming the monster your Celestia and Luna came to know in the reflection of the Crystal Heart." QoS Sombra said.
"He insisted on wanting in on this." Cozy Glow stated.
"What motivated me though, was the death of Radient Hope at the hands of her fellow Crystal Ponies. I became enranged. When I realized that your world was not far along as my own, I realized I had to figure out a few things, such as what became of your world's Radient Hope." QoS Sombra said. "...She did die, but one pony in particular is distant familial match." He added.
"Is it me? Because otherwise I don't know why I'm here." Cadence said.
"No. You are very much of the same bloodline as the former Princess Mi Amore." Celestia said to Cadence.
"Well to tell the truth, there are two ponies related to Radient Hope in this room, but only one mare." QoS Sombra said.
"M-me?!" Twilight exclaimed.
"But don't think you can befriend your version of me. If I know him, he won't care for that. He's blinded by revenge right now." QoS Sombra said. "For the sake of the crystal empire, you'll have to banish him once more." He added. "I should take my leave. I have a date to get to." The alicorn stallion said before he and Cozy Glow vanished into a portal.
"Such a strange little alicorn that Cozy Glow is." Celestia said.
"Let's not dwell on that. So, you want the elements to help Cadence and Shining Armor out at the Crystal Empire, right?" Sunset said.
"There's something I want you all to make sure you find: The Crsytal Heart. I originally was thinking Twilight should find the heart alone but I believe that Sombra might have hidden it and have it booby trap. I do not think this will be something that a single pony can do alone. And I don't want either of you to try to do it alone." Celestia said. "This is no normal villain, he has a brain." She added. Sunset's eyes went wide.
"You...actually want us to cover each other just in case?" Sunset asked.
"Yes Sunset. It's time to put your surrogate sisterhood to the test; I wish for you both to work together to find the crystal heart. The other elements are to help Cadence and Shining Armor help the Crystal Ponies in any way they can." Celestia said.
"Wow...okay...let's go pack Twilight." Sunset said and left with Twilight.
"...You aren't telling them something on purpose, are you?" Cadence asked.
"Something like that. They have both mastered all I could ever hoped they could in regards to friendship. Soon it'll be time for some tests, but before those tests come, I want them prepared. Sombra gives me the perfect excuse to prepare them for the tests to come. Tests that go above even my head." Celestia said and left the room.
Celesta went out to her balcony as she set the sun only for a ball of light to appear.
"...You are sure of this?" Celestia said. "Both of them?" She asked.
"Yes." A voice said.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 1 - The Crystal Empire (WFS Version) Part 1
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 1 - The Crystal Empire (WFS Version) Part 1
"So that's why we're here. No matter what though girls, always remember the most important thing: Friendship is magic." Twilight said.
"Of course Twilight. You and Sunset just be careful okay?" Rarity said.
"I'm sure they will. I'm going with them after all." Spike said.
"Spike, are ya certain about that?" Applejack asked.
"I'll be fine." Spike said. "I'm going with Celestia's two students after all." He added.
"Spike does bring up a good point sis." Apple Bloom said. She and the cutie mark crusaders insisted on coming with. Though that also meant bringing Diamond Tiara's mother Spoiled Rich along as well.
"So, is there anything I can do to help out?" Spoiled Rich asked.
"Actually, I was hoping you and the cutie mark crusaders could see if you can find any books Sombra left lying about somewhere. If Twilight and I have a hard time finding the crystal heart on our own, Sombra may have written the location down somewhere." Sunset said. "Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash will be too busy trying things out to help out the crystal ponies to watch them otherwise." She added.
"Yeah sorry squirt; I'm afraid I'm going to be a bit busy." Rainbow Dash said.
"That's okay sis. I'm sure whatever you plan is going to be awesome." Scootaloo said.
"I'm surprised that Night Wing allowed you to come with..." Sunset said.
"Well..." Rainbow Dash said.
the day before
"The Crystal Empire...that place hasn't been seen for a thousand years. Luna has already filled me in that you and the other elements are going to be helping Sunset and Twilight out over there." Night Wing said.
"I'll do whatever I can over there ma'm." Rainbow Dash said.
"You better give it 110% Rainbow Dash; you're basically a representative of the Shadowbolts to them." Night Wing said.
"Now that you mention it...I'm not going to lie ma'm...now I'm a little bit nervous." Rainbow Dash said. Night Wing laughed.
"I remember what it was like being the representative of my hometown for the Equestria Games a year ago. Winning the race there is part of why Luna chose me as the new Shadowbolt Captain." Night Wing said. "But you can bet I was all kinds of nervous." She added.
"Speaking of...you didn't object to me wanting to be on the Ponyville team for the next Equestria Games." Rainbow Dash said.
"I want to race against you instead of with you for that; I have to measure myself against you to know whether or not Luna was right about you." Night Wing said.
"She is. And I intend to prove that before then." Rainbow Dash said. "You can try and argue that me being an Element of Harmony is giving me a bit of a priviledge, but I know Luna made me a member because I had already earned it." She added.
"Doing a Sonic Rainboom at the Young Fliers competition to save the Wonderbolts and your friend Rarity is not enough for me." Night Wing said.
"Well hold onto that thought when I kick butt at the Crystal Empire." Rainbow Dash said.
Present time
"Well you should not try to engage Sombra unless it's absolutely necessary. Got that?" Twilight asked.
"Got it. But something tells me we are going to have to fight." Rainbow Dash said. "Call part of my instincts." She added.
"Right..." Twilight said.
"C'mon Twilight; it's time for us two Sun Students to go find the crystal heart!" Sunset said.
"Sun Students?" Applejack asked.
"It's the sisterhood name Sunset came up with. I'm surprised this is the first time she's ever used it with everyone present." Twilight said.
After much searching, the Sun Students managed to find the crystal heart, but Sombra managed to burst through Cadence's shield. He burst right into the room where the two Sun Sisters were, and while Sunset easily teleported away in time, Twilight wasn't so lucky.
"TWILIGHT!" Sunset said; her magic dropped the crystal heart which was then caught by Cadence who put it where it belonged with the Crystal Ponies beginning the ritual.
"So...it seems we'll both die this day..." Sombra noted.
"Sombra...stop this tyranny. Do you think this is what Raidiant Hope would've wanted? Do you think she'd like what you've become?" Twilight asked.
"It doesn't matter what she thinks. This was my destiny." Sombra said.
"Listen to me: It doesn't have to be that way Sombra." Twilight said. Sombra opened his mouth but then instead of saying anything gasped. There was an afterimage of a mare behind her. One Sombra knew was Radiant hope. And he swore he could here the two mare's voices in stereo.
"Sombra, you don't have to listen to your destiny. You can choose to become a better pony. All you need is to want it. Do it to create a better future for yourself. If you won't do it for your sake, do it for mine, Sombra." Sombra heard the voices of Radiant Hope and Twilight Sparkle say in stereo. A tear fell from Sombra's eyes.
They are right...I can still choose to become a better pony. I don't have to listen to my destiny... Sombra thought. Just as the light from the crystal heart surged out, Sombra's magic too surged.
"TWILIGHT!" Sunset said, but a light blinded her. When it faded, Twilight was safely on the ground, looking like she had simply lost all of her balance. But there was also a gray stallion with her too.
"What the...where'd the stallion come from?" Shining Armor asked. Twilight got up.
"We're...both alive?" Twilight questioned, looking at the gray stallion.
"Twilight, do you know who this is?" Cadence asked.
"There's only one pony it could possibly be. And it seems...I got through to him after all..." Twilight said.
"Huh?" Applejack asked. Suddenly the stallion woke up, and while his voice was familiar, it had changed.
"Ugh...my head hurts now..." The stallion said.
"S-Sombra?!" Sunset said, her jaw suddenly hitting the floor along with everypony elses but Twilight's.
"It seems...that by rejecting the dark magics that made him the way he was, Sombra has undergone a transformation of sorts into a normal unicorn stallion." Twilight summerized.
"I am free then? I'm the way I was before?" Sombra asked.
"Before? What do you mean before?" Shining Armor asked.
"Yeah. What exactly do you mean by that?" Cadence said.
"Well...it's just that...the Dark magic that had turned me into what you first saw me as...it was given to me." Sombra said. "And it's only a matter of time now before the ones who gave me that magic shows up. Things aren't over here yet." He added.
"Well in that case, who and what are we dealing with?" Twilight said. A suddenly monstrous screech could be heard.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Author's Note
So yes, there were zero changes to the Young Fliers competition in this universe. All that would've been added extra was a line or two from Sunset Shimmer. It's one of those "there's basically zero change" scenarios. The brief flashback is the main change to before Sunset and Twilight find the crystal heart. Also, finally I drop the sisterhood name of Sunset and Twilight. Been saving that one. And yeah. While this version of Sombra is also being redeemed, don't think for one second the events of the crystal empire are over just yet. Consider what'll happen next your present for New Year's Day.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 2 - The Crystal Empire (WFS Version) Part 2
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 2 - The Crystal Empire (WFS Version) Part 2
Suddenly a bunch of mysterious creatures cloaked in shadows came rushing out from the ground around the Crystal Empire.
“What are these things?!” Sunset exclaimed.
“The ones who gave me that dark magic: The Umbra.” Sombra said. “If you value the lives of all those who dwell in Equestria, you will all fight them; these creatures only want to spread hate and misery.” He added.
“We have to choice but to defeat all of them then…” Twilight said.
“I CALLED IT; I KNEW WE’D BE DOING SOME FIGHTING!” Rainbow Dash said.
“Everypony get ready, this is for Equestria!” Twilight announced before every pony began to fight.
The fight continued for some time, Spike meanwhile was fighting a really big Umbra, eventually defeating it. Upon it’s roar of defeat, the other Umbra suddenly all collapsed.
“Did we win?” Sunset asked. Celestia, Luna, and Nightwing soon showed up.
“I believe you all have.” Celestia said.
“Well way to kick evil flank Rainbow Dash.” Night Wing said. “Guess Princess Luna was right after all.” She added. Celestia and Luna approached Sombra.
“…Do with me whatever it is you wish to do. But please, whatever happens, let me choose my own destiny from here on out.” Sombra said.
“I think that is a good outlook to have. I didn’t think it’d be possible for you to have a change of heart.” Celestia said.
“It just took the right mare is all.” Sombra said. “Twilight Sparkle, thank you for convincing me to change. While we were falling, I saw her, you know; I saw Radiant Hope. It seems she lives in through you. But I think I should go after a different romance then with you. Somehow, my magic has changed; I have a premonition that the one destined to be with you, is one you have yet to meet.” Sombra said.
“That’s good to know.” Twilight said. Suddenly she became enveloped with light.
“! What’s happening?!” Rainbow Dash said. When the light faded, Twilight was suddenly an Alicorn.
“Dear Twilight, you’ve become an Alicorn!” Rarity said. Twilight looked at her new wings.
“But how did that happen? Spike is the one who landed the finishing blow.” Twilight noted.
“Twilight, you were instrumental in redeeming Sombra; a Stallion who I thought could never be redeemed; and you have more then learnt much about. You, Twilight Sparkle, have earned your new status as Equestria’s newest Princess.” Celestia said.
“Wow, way to go sis.” Sunset said, hugging Twilight.
A few days later after a coronation ceremony at Canterot, everyone was in the Crystal Empire to see the completed mirror.
“So, on the other side is Sunburst.” Sunset said.
“It’s magics are not active right now I’m afraid; it’ll be active later tonight so you and Twilight should both get some rest.” Celestia said.
“Wait we’re both going?” Twilight said.
“I think you both will need to go. Or at least Sombra strongly suggests that you both go.” Luna said.
“It’s that premonition thing again. Besides, you two should head over.” Sombra said. “Sunset might need some help with her brother after all.” He added.
“He’s right. It’s finally time for you to meet my biological brother. Will you be ready, Twilight?” Sunset asked.
“Ready as I’ll ever be.” Twilight said.
“Spike, I suggest you stay behind; a limit needs to be placed on the interactions on the use of this mirror somehow.” Celestia said.
“The Sun Students will be fine so long as they are together.” Spike said. “Also, somehow I’m a hero to these Crystal ponies.” He added.
“Heh heh…guess I’m no longer the only mare whose friends with a Princess, huh Dash?” Night Wing asked.
“Well I think you can be friends with Twilight just fine if you try.” Rainbow Dash said.
“Then you better become friends with Luna in exchange.” Night Wing said.
“Those two are still going.” Scootaloo said.
“Eeyep.” Apple Bloom said.
“Got that right.” Scootaloo said.
“Been that way for the past few days.” Diamond Tiara said.
“Will they fight fight?” Spoiled Rich said.
“Doubt it; it’s just their way of being friends.” Spike said.
That night, something came through the portal. A cloaked stallion rushed to Twilight’s room and stole the element of magic, but in doing so, knocked over a vase which woke the Alicorn and Sunset up. The two surrogate sisters rushed after the theif, but when Sunset pulled off the cloak, she was shocked at who was underneath.
“SUNBURST?!” Sunset exclaimed before her brother bucked her and went right back through the mirror. “Brother…why…” Sunset said, before passing out.
“So, Sunburst really is on the other side of this mirror.” Starlight said. “At least all he stole was that fancy Tiara.” She said.
“That was no ordinary Tiara, Starlight; that Tiara contains the power of the Element of Magic.” Sunset said.
“And the world beyond the mirror is not prepared for such a thing. You both must get it back.” Celestia said.
“And maybe we’ll get through Sunburst’s skull that he shouldn’t have done that.” Twilight said.
“The Sun Students are ready for action!” Sunset said the two entered the mirror, not expecting what awaited them on the other side…
Up Next - WFS’s version of Equestria Girl: Tales of Canterlot High: The beginning.
Author's Note
What can I say? I couldn’t wait. But if that’s not a hell of a cliffhange of an ending, then I don’t know what is.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
         Memories of a Brother 3 - In One's Shadow         
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Memories of a Brother 3 - In One's Shadow
Unknown P.O.V.
Ugh...why her? Why did she have to be there?
Of all the ones I didn't want to see, it had to be my own sister.
Well it won't matter.
I am through with forever being in her shadow.
Because in just three days, I will take over equestria.
No longer will I be Sunburst, the younger brother to Sunset Shimmer who is also Princess Celestia's student.
But I will instead be Sunburst, king of both Equestria and the human world!
None shall stop me, not even my own sister.
...Though I have to wonder who that new princess is. Not that it matters, they will all be killed off once I'm in control.
No one can stop me.
It's been this way my entire life, being in my own sister's shadow.
But once I've taken over everything, I will no longer be overshadowed by my own sister.
Because that's why I left.
Because no one would ever pay attention to just me.
That's all I ever wanted.
Glim-Glam will understand.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Tales of Canterlot High: The Beginning Part 1       
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Tales of Canterlot High: The Beginning Part 1
The Sun Students were now on the other side of the mirror, and in a whole new world.
Thing was that this whole situation was about to become a lot more than a simple locate and retrieve mention.
PRESENTING A "WHEN FRIENDSHIP SHIMMERS" SPECIAL EPISODE
TALES OF CANTERLOT HIGH: THE BEGINNING
"...I'm starting to understand why Celestia doesn't want many ponies using the mirror now..." Sunset said.
It had been a few hours for the both of them, but now the two Sun Students were on their hooves. Or, should that be feet.
As it had turned out, the mirror Celestia had connected to a world of humans, and upon using it, both Sunset Shimmer and Twilight Sparkle had both transformed to become the same species as the natives.
"I'm just surprised how easy this was to get used to." Twilight noted.
"Right...so, where should we start looking? We seem to be at some sort of school." Sunset said.
"Yeah. I have a feeling we should do something else here too. Like make some new friends." Twilight said.
"You sure we'll have time?" Sunset asked.
"Celestia did hand me a note. I read it a bit ago. We have three days before the portal will be out of commission for three months. When the moon sets on the third day, that's when our time limit expires. So I say, while we're looking, we make some new friends." Twilight said.
"Excuse me..." A very familiar voice said. "But did were you saying something about a portal?" It asked. The Sun Students looked and saw a woman who looked like a human version of Celestia.
"...It can't be..." Sunset said.
"I ask that you meet me in my office at once." The Celestia human said.
"...I see..." The Celestia Human said. "Well no need to sugar coat things. Ever since that mirror was destroyed some years ago, the connection was severed. It seems it's been restablished now." She added.
"So...you are a version of Celestia, just not exactly the same." Sunset said.
"Me and your Celestia used to keep in contact the moment I took over this school as it's Principal." The Human Celestia said.
"Even here in this world, you have some sort of authority." Twilight noted.
"So, you say your after a crown that was stolen from you. I had wondered where Sunburst got that mysterious crown that is now the prize at the Fall Formal this year." Principal Celestia said. "Our usual crown has gone missing, so Sunburst said he'd get us one. I had no idea it was stolen. However, I can't simply just hand it over." She added.
"Why not?" Sunset asked.
"Because it's the only crown we've got this year for the Fall Formal Ball, which is used to crown the King or Queen of the Ball which is decided on by popular vote. But I have a feeling Sunburst believes he has the win in the bag. So, how about killing two birds with one stone instead?" Principal Celestia said.
"What do you mean?" Twilight asked.
"I think I get it; you want Twilight to beat Sunburst at his own game." Sunset said. "Some things just don't change..." She added.
"That boy needs a reality check if you ask me. This is his first year here at Canterlot Highschool, and he believes he is unbeatable." Principle Celestia said.
"But you want us to make him realize that nothing is for certain, right?" Sunset asked.
"I'm asking you to do so because that boy needs a reality check in that not everything can be about him." Principle Celestia said.
"Wonder why he's gotten such a big head? He wasn't like that before." Sunset said.
"Parden me, you actually know Sunburst?" Principle Celestia asked Sunset.
"Yeah. He's my brother. My biological brother in fact. He had escaped to this world to what me seems like a long time. But he wasn't like what your describing when I last saw him. Something must have happened to him to make him this way." Sunset said.
"I see. Well now you have that extra motivation to give that brother of yours a reality check." Principle Celestia said. "I think I can pull some strings and have you both as students here at the school. I'll just say your...students from a different school staying over for a few days." Principle Celestia said.
"Again, some things don't change. Even a human version of Celestia ends up being just as much of a politician somehow." Sunset said.
"From what I understand, both of you treat each other as Sisters, despite having zero blood ties to one another." Principle Celestia said. "Well maybe that sort of bond is just what you'll need. There are five particular girls at the school I believe you should start making friends with, they are Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity." She added.
"Huh..." Sunset said. "Well, we won't disappoint you. We'll do our best to make friends with those girls." She added.
"Will warn you, they might be a might difficult to let you into their little friend circle after Sunburst toyed with their hearts; each one of them." Principle Celestia said. "In fact, ever since then, those girls haven't made any additional friends." She added.
"I see. Well, we'll do our best." Twilight said.
It didn't take long for the two Sun Students to find the five girls, thing was, Principle Celestia was not kidding about the diffiuclt struggle ahead of them.
But after a few hours, Twilight decided to take a stand and really let herself come out; she gave quite the heartfelt speech that really moved the human counterparts of her five friends.
"Yer something else, ah've got to say sugercube." H Applejack Said.
"Your like super mega awesome." H Rainbow Dash said.
"And was really sweet." H Fluttershy said.
"I have to say, your insperational! I've got all kinds of ideas just from your speech alone!" H Rarity said.
"I could really throw a party over this." H Pinkie Pie said.
Some things never change indeed... Sunset thought to herself. Suddenly, the entire group heard clapping.
"Whose clapping?" Twilight asked. Soon a boy about Twilight's new human age showed up and was clapping.
"That was some speech you gave. I have to say, to witness such a thing, is an honor. Your one of a kind, that's for certain." The boy said.
"Well...why thank you." Twilight said.
"Whose this guy?" Sunset asked.
"That's Flash Sentry..." H Rainbow Dash said.
"It's a pleasure to make your aquantice, dear maiden from far away. To what name, do you go by?" Flash Sentry asked.
"My name's Twilight Sparkle." Twilight said.
"What a very precious name; I dare say it captivates all that is you." Flash Sentry said. "With a speech like that, I think you have a chance against that arrogant Sunburst." He added.
"Why thank you." Twilight said.
"In fact, consider me on your side." Flash Sentry said before holding Flash Sentry's hand. "Never before have I been made to wtiness such beauty, such bravery, and such grace. You, Twilight Sparkle, are one of a kind." He added. H Rainbow's jaw dropped.
"What's with lover boy here?" Sunset asked.
"Forgive me, I just got so caught up in this maiden's beauty. Allow me to fully introduce myself: I am Flash Sentry. They call me the big star of Canterlot High. And for good reason. If people know me, they know to treat me like a prince or pay the price for pissing me off." Flash Sentry said.
"I guess Sunburst isn't the only arrogant one here." Sunset said.
"You don't know who this is?!" H Rainbow Dash said. "Wait forgot, your new here." She added.
"Am I missing something?" Sunset asked.
"This is Flash Sentry..." H Rainbow Dash began. "...He's the head of the Canterlot Wondercolt Football team and a student who gets always seems to get the top marks. Not to mention, he's the son of the police chief. To many, he goes by the full name of Prince Flash Sentry because of everything he's achieved. He's earned every right to be the way he is." She added.
"You have to be those out of state transfers I've heard about. I know about everything because nothing gets by me." Flash Sentry said. "But you, Twilight Sparkle, are very special indeed. You may just be the one to knock that rookie Sunburst off his high horse. I believe in you. And you have my full support behind you." He added.
"But...aren't I also a rookie in that case?" Twilgiht asked.
"Your modest, you've got a good head on your shoulders, and you're always willing to do what's right if I'm not mistaken. Do I need to go on? Because I can go on." Flash Sentry said.
"For Flash Sentry to be giving out this sort of compliment; looks like Twilight here just caught Flash Sentry's eye." H Applejack said. "Ah honestly thought ah'd never see the day..." She added.
"Well, I do plan on entering the Fall Formal and winning the crown if that's what you're talking about. I kind of have to." Twilight said.
"That's the spirit. You've got the full support of the Canterlot Wondercolts behind you. And don't forget it. Later, Twilight Sparkle." Flash Sentry said.
"...What just happened?" Sunset asked.
"I think the Prince has found his Princess is what." H Rarity said.
Oh if only they knew... Sunset thought to herself.
Author's Note
In case it wasn't obvious, the "H" means "Human".

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Tales of Canterlot High: The Beginning Part 2       
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Tales of Canterlot High: The Beginning Part 2
"Those two followed me all the way here, did they? Doesn't matter; no matter what, they are both going to die. And just to be sure, I have a backup plan. One no one could expect." Sunburst's voice said. On screen was a single teenage boy, one who looked a lot like Sunset's human form, but obviously masculine.
NOW CONTINUING THE SPECIAL EPISODE OF MY LITTLE PONY: WHEN FRIENDSHIP SHIMMERS
The following day was just more Twilight and Sunset helping the human versions of their friends open up more towards others. And it was getting noticed.
Though there was an encounter near the end of the day between Twilight and Flash.
"You know, wherever it is you're from, I may think of asking my father if perhaps, he'd be okay with me moving there. You are one-of-a-kind Twilight Sparkle. And my father met my mother in high school, if you can believe that." Flash Sentry said.
"Actually, now that I think about it, my own parents were right around that same age when they first met." Twilight Sparkle said.
"That's quite the coincidence, thing is, I don't believe in those. I believe that there are things beyond our control, that destiny always has some hand in getting us where we need to go; sometimes even causing one to meet their soul mate." Flash Sentry said. Twilight for a moment, could feel her heartbeat for a bit.
That...was like something straight out of a book. Twilight thought to herself.
"I know one thing about you Twilight Sparkle: I would give anything for you. You are a special girl." Flash Sentry said. Twilight felt herself blush.
"Well...you could say that. I'm just...not sure if you'd want to be with me if you knew what I really was." Twilight said. "In fact, it might make it harder for us to be together..." Twilight said.
"I'm never one to dwell on apperences or one's own backstory. To me, what's important is how someone acts, how someone is. And you, Twilight Sparkle, are no doubt someone with incredible talent." Flash Sentry said. Twilight could feel her heart racing.
"Well...tomorrow after the Fall Formal, I do have to head back to where I was but..." Twilight began.
"Then I'll follow you. I'm sure my dad will understand. I feel a connection with you, Twilight Sparkle, one I've never felt with anyone else before." Flash Sentry said. Twilight couldn't help but blush harder.
"We...haven't really known each other for that long. Are you sure about that?" Twilight asked.
"Never before have I been so sure of myself." Flash Sentry said. "And don't try to convince me otherwise. I can be pretty darn stubborn after all." Flash Sentry said. "You are like some kind of Princess, and they say every Princess needs her Prince." He added. Twilight once again felt her heartbeat for a bit.
This has suddenly gone to being even better than any romance novel I've ever read. Twilight thought to herself.
"By the way, I see you're a bit of a book enthusiast. I pegged you for the type. That's fine. I too enjoy a good book every now and then." Flash Sentry said. Twilight's eyes went wide.
"You...enjoy reading?" Twilight asked.
"Of course I do. I just don't do it often. My studies keep me from reading a whole bunch. If I want to be a top officer of the law like my dad, I need to keep my studies up." Flash Sentry said. "Them's the breaks of following your own dreams sometimes." He added. "And I'm positive, I'll find some way to keep that dream alive no matter where I have to follow you to." The teenage boy added.
"Following your dreams..." Twilight noted, a bit under her breath.
"I better let you go. See you after you win." Flash Sentry said.
Meanwhile, a lone teenage boy was listening in on that conversation.
"Interesting. Plans have officially changed." The boy said before leaving.
The next day was the Fall Formal.
"No sign of Sunburst..." Sunset said.
"Maybe he decided to give up?" H Applejack said.
"I got a bad feeling about this..." Sunset said. Soon votes were being tallied.
"I haven't seen Flash either. Where is he?" Twilight asked.
"It's not like him to want to miss this." H Rainbow Dash said. "I'm with Sunset, something just does not feel right." She added.
"We have the results. The winner by a landslide is Twilight Sparkle!" Principle Celestia said.
"Way to go Twilight!" H Applejack said.
"I'm afraid you won't have long to enjoy your victory." A male voice said.
"Sunburst." Sunset said. Soon the mysterious boy came in, before suddenly taking out a tied up Flash Sentry from a bag.
"FLASH!" Twilight said.
"Stop right there. If anyone dares try anything, I won't hesitate to hurt the Star of Canterlot High." The boy said.
"Sunburst, why are you doing this? What ever happened to you that made you like this?" Sunset asked.
"You of all people should know that, dear sister." Sunburst said.
"Sunset is that guy's sister?" H Rarity asked.
"But they are nothing alike at all." H Fluttershy said.
"What's that supposed to mean brother?" Sunset asked.
"You still don't get it do you? My entire life, I've had to live in your shadow. When you left to become the sun princess's pupil, and I wanted to pursue doing magic my way. But mother never understood that. She assumed I wanted to be just as good as you, if not better. I never wanted that. Everyone keeps having these assumptions of me. Well, I'm sick and tired of it!" Sunburst said. "So, Twilight Sparkle, if you want your boyfriend unharmed, you will give me that crown. Otherwise, he's in for a world of heart. Damn the consequences, because once I have that crown, both this world and the world beyond will belong to me. And there's nothing you can do to stop me." He explained.
"Your blackmailing Twilight?" Sunset asked.
"I will always get what I want, and what I want is revenge. The ultimate revenge!" Sunburst said.
"You want my crown Sunburst? You can have it." Twilight said.
"Twilight?" Sunset questioned.
"Trust me." Twilight said.
"Excellent. Hand it here." Sunburst said. Twilight gladly did so and then untied Flash Sentry.
"I got careless. But did you really have to do that?" Flash Sentry asked.
"Now with this, I can rule over both the human world and the other one too!" Sunburst said before putting on the crown. Suddenly, he transformed into some kind of Demon.
"He's become some kind of demon!" H Pinkie Pie said.
"Twilight, was that really the only way?" Flash Sentry asked.
"It may only have been a short while but...I guess you could say I've devoloped just as much of a crush on you as you did me." Twilight said.
"I'm feeling generous, so I'll let you two love birds share one kiss before I really get started." Sunburst said.
One kiss is all I'll need, if this is right. Twilight said.
"He's gone on a power trip. But thank you, Twilight Sparkle." Flash Sentry said.
"Just kiss me already." Twilight said. The two of them kissed and then suddenly, things started happening to Sunset and the human versions of the other elements.
"Wha-what's going on?!" Sunburst asked as all of them were being magically altered, in fact Flash Sentry and Twilight Sparkle were too. "What's happening?!" Sunburst said. Soon, Sunset gained some sort of horn as did H Rarity; H Rainbow Dash, H Fluttershy, and Flash Sentry got wings; and finally with Twilight, she got both a horn and wings. Even though H Applejack and H Pinkie Pie remained unchanged, the two of them could still float.
"NOW THIS IS AWESOME!" H Rainbow Dash said. As Flash ended the kiss, he knew what was going on. Twilight just smiled.
"Sunburst, you may have my crown, but it is nothing compared to the magic of friendship and the ties of love." Twilight Sparkle said.
"Friendship? Please. It's just a word." Sunburst said.
"Actually I hate to bring it to you, but even here in the human world, one thing is still constant." Twilight said. "FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC!" She added before suddenly a rainbow laser fired upon Sunburst, stripping him of his demon form.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Sunburst yelled out.
Twilight had made the decision for Sunburst to learn friendship from the ground up, and thus left the human versions of Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy in charge of that.
Flash wanted to go with Twilight, but she told him she'd find a way to visit him. So now, she and Sunset were back in Equestria and the Crystal Empire.
"...I see. I didn't think Sunburst had gotten so cold. I hope that that world can help him go back to the way he used to be. For both Sunset and Starlight Glimmer." Princess Celestia said.
"I know I basically made a royal call, but I felt it was better this way." Twilight said.
"You did the right thing Twilight." Sunset said. "That Flash Sentry guy was right, you do tend to always do the right thing." She added.
"Flash Sentry huh? Did my little sis end up meeting a special somepony in that other world?" Shining Armor asked.
"Now Shining..." Cadence said.
"Hey, I won't judge. I just hope that whoever he is, he better not break your heart, Twily." Shining Armor said.
"Heh heh, yeah. Or else he'll have both a surrogate sister and a biological brother on hooves to deal with, not to mention five other mares who'll teach him not to do it ag--" Sunset was saying when the portal began to shine again like it did when the Sun Students came through.
"What's going on now?!" Twilight exclaimed. Suddenly, out from the portal came an orange Pegasus.
"It...can't be..." Sunset said. "Flash Sentry?!" She exclaimed.
"Um...hi?" Flash Sentry asked, a bit puzzled.
"...This is going to take some explaining on both ends, isn't it?" Twilight asked.
"We're going to be here a while, aren't we?" Sunset asked.
To Be Concluded...
Author's Note
PLOT TWIST INCOMING!

//-------------------------------------------------------//
        Bonus Episode: Aftermath of the Fall Formal        
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Bonus Episode: Aftermath of the Fall Formal
It took a long explination, but eventually Flash Sentry was on the same page as everyone else.
"So, your really a princess." Flash Sentry said.
"Yeah. I understand if that makes things difficult..." Twilight said.
"Are you kidding? I said that wouldn't matter to me. I meant it. I said I'd follow you anywhere, and I really meant that. Or is this not enough proof of that?" Flash Sentry asked.
"I can't argue with that logic..." Twilight said.
"Yeah...not gonna lie; that was pretty ballsy." Sunset said.
"...I got nothing to add. Just gonna let things sit in my mind for a while..." Shining Armor said.
"So I'm a pegasus now am I? Well, for you Twilight, I'll deal with it. I'm sure my dad will understand. I'm very willing to give up my entire old life just to be with you. I'll find some way to be a high ranking officer of the law somehow. It's still my dream, and I'm willing to make that kind of sacrifice of leaving my old life behind. Because that life does not have you in it, Twilight Sparkle." Flash Sentry said. Rarity fainted. "...Is the pony version of her going to be okay?" The pegasus stallion asked.
"Actually, why did you just faint Rarity?" Sunset asked the white unicorn.
"Because this seems straight out of those Romance Novels that I'm a huge fan of." Rarity noted.
"I...haven't read such a romance novel yet. This seems way beyond like in those." Twilight said.
"I have to say though...anyone willing to leave their entire old life behind for my own sister is alright in my book." Shining Armor said.
"Yeah, that's some fierce loyalty." Rainbow Dash said.
"Some things don't change much..." Flash Sentry noted.
"So, you're really willing to just, give up everything back in that world for me?" Twilight Sparkle asked.
"I meant it too." Flash Sentry said.
"Well, I suppose we can test the waters. I might as well try with someone who sees me for who I am past the crown. Which I'm pretty sure you do." Twilight said.
"Yeah. That would make it hard for just about anyone. But not me. I think me being from that other world and meeting you in that circumstance does give me an advantage." Flash Sentry said.
"He's not wrong..." Sunset said.
"Well then Flash Sentry, allow me to welcome you to Equestria." Twilight said. "More specifically, the Crystal Empire. And there's a lot to go over for the next few weeks." She added.
Author's Note
So it's not really that much of a plot twist. But it is a twist none the less. The idea of Twilight falling in love with the human world's flash sentry came from the story "Intergration" which you can read here: Integration - Fimfiction (https://www.fimfiction.net/story/309780/integration)  
That said, no, this does not mean Pony Flash Sentry will show up later. In this alternate universe, Pony Flash Sentry does not exist; there's only one Flash Sentry and that one is now in Equestria over the human world. This was my big twist.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
         Season 3: Episode 3 - Meeting the Parents         
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 3 - Meeting the Parents
"Thank you, Sunset." Steller Flare said. "Now I blame myself more than ever. What kind of mother am I for not seeing the signs? I should've paid more attention, then maybe your brother wouldn't have fled to that other place." She added.
"I think it just sort of exploded when my brother started struggling with the school. There's no way you could've known mom." Sunset said.
"Then who can we blame if not me? I am the one who sent him to that school which only made matters worse for him." Steller Flare said. Starlight was just sitting there, saying nothing. She had been informed by Sunset about the time Steller Flare essentially starved herself nearly to death over Sunset's disappearance. And now seeing the mare in question continuing to simply shame herself over everything...it seems Sunburst's disappearance hit the unicorn hard enough and thus Starlight had to admit that the mare had suffered through enough hardship for one lifetime without needing Starlight to shove things down her throat.
"Mom please...stop beating yourself over the things you can't change. What's done is done. At some point, Sunburst will come back to this world, and he'll hopefully be even better than he was when he left." Sunset said.
"Your right. Right now, all I can do is stay strong and wait. I'll make sure to eat this time. I don't want him coming home to a dead mother. A mother that now just wants to apologize to her own son." Steller Flare said. "I shouldn't have sent him away so soon. Maybe if I had waited a few years or something else along those lines." She addded.
"I think it wouldn't have mattered mom. Sunburst was already being compared to me. Starlight was his only friend it seems." Sunset said.
"That...was the main reason why I sent him away. I was hoping being sent away from home would stop the bullying." Steller Flare said. "What? Don't think I didn't notice? He and Starlight here may have tried to hide it, but a mother knows these things. I made a judgement call hoping for him to get away from it all." She added.
"That's why you forced him? To try and get him away from all the bullying?" Starlight asked, speaking for the first time during this conversation.
"Yes. It was a judgement call like I said. I made a choice to try and help my son, not hurt him further. But it seems my choice had the opposite effect in the end." Steller flare said.
"You were his mother. I can't fault you for making a choice that you thought would be better. I just...wish I could've gone with at least. I think I could've at least helped. But I couldn't go. Not without having some sort of advanced magical knowledge." Starlight said. "Maybe if I did, then maybe wouldn't have turned out the way he did." She added.
"No. I don't think there was any stopping what ultimately happened. Even if you went with him or not Starlight, I doubt that you being there could've changed the outcome at all." Steller Flare said. "...Call it a mother's intuition. One day, when you're a mother, you'll understand. And trust me Starlight, I think you'd make a great mother someday." She added. Starlight blushed at the compliment.
"T-thanks for the compliment." Starlight said.
"I must say, for a pegasus colt, he defiantly is a catch Twily." Twilight Velvet said.
"Mom, seriously?" Twilight Sparkle said.
"Oh, don't worry I'm happily taken. Besides, he's a little too young for me. I am getting up there in years after all." Velvet said.
"Mom..." Sparkle said. Meanwhile off to the sides, both Night Light and Flash Sentry were just staring at the talking mares.
"So...how long do we let them just talk?" Flash Sentry asked as the two mares continued to talk about him.
"However long it takes them really. My wife can be persistent if nothing else." Night Light said.
"Twilight can be pretty persistent too I noticed from her talks to you." Flash Sentry said.
"Which Twilight?" Night Light asked.
"...Must you ask? Also, nice try with trying to confuse me." Flash Sentry said.
"Darn it. Your as smart as Twilight said you were." Night Light said.
"Straight As like she said. I spent a lot of time studying after all. It's also why I got a bit of an advanced placement. I was apperently too smart for 8th grade so...pratically everyone agreed to put me in high school a year early." Flash Sentry said.
"...Yeah that sounds just like my girl." Night Light said.
"Which one?" Flash Sentry asked, smiling.
"...Well played Flash Sentry; well played." Night Light said.
"Okay you two, stop messing with each other, please." Velvet said.
"Welp, our ladies await." Flash Sentry said as he sat down next to Twilight Sparkle.
"A bit of a gentlecolt are we?" Velvet asked as her husband sat down next to her.
"Let me guess, something you got from your father?" Sparkle asked Flash Sentry.
"Actually that would've been my mother before she died trying to chase away a robber at our old house. We moved away from our original home before Dad became the new Police Chief." Flash answered.
"Oh no, that's terrible." Night Light said.
"My mom may have been a stay-at-home mother, but she wanted to help my dad in case he ever needed it. And that was help he needed as otherwise, dad and I would've never known there was a robber in the house." Flash explained.
"It's too bad she died helping then. She sounds like she would've been a nice gal to meet." Velvet said.
"Heh...if you think you embarrass your daughter, then you're not that much different than my own mother." Flash Sentry said.
"It's like my daughter can't get away from it." Night Light said.
"Same with Flash, apparently." Sparkle said. Everyone shared a laugh.
"Guess that's another sign that you two belong with each other." Night Light said. "From what Shining Armor told me, you quite literally, left an entire life behind to be with my daughter. That is dedication at its finest." He added. "So, I'd say you've more than earned my favor as it is. Not many people would just randomly give up everything like you did." The unicorn stallion concluded.
"Your daughter is a one-of-a-kind girl. Well...mare really, I suppose. Going to take some getting used to that." Flash Sentry said. "But for your daughter, it'll be worth it." He added.
"I like the effort your going to put into this. I just know you two are going to make a great couple. Call it a mother's intuition." Velvet said.
"Mom, how can you be so sure?" Sparkle asked.
"Twilight Sparkle, when your a mother like I am, you'll understand." Velvet said.
"Isn't it a little too soon to be talking about kids?" Flash Sentry asked.
"My sentiments exactly." Sparkle said.
"Take your time but don't take too long okay? I want both my kids to give me some grand kids to spoil sooner rather than later." Velvet said.
"Oh boy..." Sparkle said, getting embarrassed.
Author's Note
Yes, I had to do this. Because I can.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
         Season 3: Episode 4 - Crisis in Ponyville         
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 4 - Crisis in Ponyville
"Something is not right..." Twilight said as she and her friends arrived in Ponyville, and noticed quite a few black vines growing.
"Tell me about it; I don't think these vines are natural." Flash Sentry said, observing one that was currently growing around the Golden Oaks Library.
"Uh oh..." Discord said. "I had completely forgotten about these things." He added.
"You recognize what these are?" Applejack asked.
"Only too well. They're Plunderseed Vines. But with how long it's been since I planted their seeds, I thought for sure said seeds would've died off by now." Discord said.
"How long ago are we talking?" Fluttershy asked.
"Oh about around the time of that little take over of mine." Discord said. "It was a failsafe." He added.
"So, how do we get rid of these things?" Rainbow Dash said.
"Dash is that you?" Night Wing suddenly showed up. "We've got injured, but these vines keep growing." She added.
"...Now we really need to know how to stop these vines." Rainbow Dash said to Discord.
"For once, I wish I knew." Discord said, he did notice Zecora coming into town. "But perhaps your zebra friend might know a thing or two." The Draconequus added.
"Looks like you might be busy; I have a gut feeling about this." Night Wing said to Rainbow Dash.
"Yeah." Rainbow Dash said as everyone headed towards Zecora.
"From my humble home I had to flee; the forest has become overgrown even for me." Zecora said.
"Wait...are you essentially saying the plunerseed infestation started in the Everfree Forest?" Sunset asked. Zecora nodded. "I was afraid you'd say that." The orange unicorn added.
"Is there anything that can be done to stop this madness?" Flash Sentry asked. Zecora took out a potion, though it looked incomplete.
"After Twilight uses her alicorn powers to finish this brew; one sip from this will allow her a view." Zecora said.
"A view of how to stop this. Alright, here goes." Twilgiht said and use her magic on the potion, turning it from purple to white and then drinking it. However, while the main six just saw Twilight going through emotions, Twilight herself was seeing the moment when Celestia had to banish Nightmare Moon.
"Sis, are you okay?" Sunset said, shaking Twilight which ended the vision.
"I-I'm fine. Was...I the only one who saw what I saw?" Twilight asked.
"What do you mean? What did you see?" Applejack asked.
"I...think I saw the moment when Princess Luna became Nightmare Moon, causing Princess Celestia to banish her sister to the moon." Twilight said.
"That doesn't really explain how to stop the Plunderseed Vines." Sunset noted.
"Perhaps you need to take another drink..." Zecora began before the group witnessed plunderseed vines kidnapping the two alicorn sisters in question. "...And you must hurry I think." The Zebra mare finished.
"R-right." Twilight said.
"I'm staying by you this time." Sunset said. When Twilight drank the potion this time, while Sunset grabbed Twilight's arm, suddenly Sunset too was bearing witness to what was happening. The pair saw two events, the first being when Discord was turned to stone, and the other being when the Alicorn Sisters found the elements. After that, the two were back to normal.
"What happened to Sunset?" Rarity asked.
"I...think I somehow got looped in." Sunset said.
"That shouldn't be possible though, should it?" Twilight asked Zecora. The Zebra shook her head.
"No it should not have occurred for Sunset to blaster, but perhaps it is related to something Sunset has yet to fully master." Zecora said.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Sunset said before suddenly getting to see through Twilight's eyes the moment Twilight mentioned before, causing the orange unicorn to shake her head. "What...what the heck was that?" Sunset asked.
"Is Sunset suddenly devoloping some sort of special power?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"I have a theory...when Sunburst put on Twilight's crown in the other world, it introduced magic to that world. Perhaps, some of the new magic from the human world and this world are now mixing in both worlds, and it's started by giving Sunset some sort of new power." Flash Sentry said.
"That would be my explanation." Twilight said. "If Sunset just saw what I think she just saw..." She added.
"If you mean when Nightmare Moon was formed and banished then yes." Sunset said.
"I thought as much. But I think I know what we have to do: We have to return the elements to where they came from: The Tree of Harmony. I suppose if we ever do need them again for an emergancy, we can always borrow them again." Twilight noted.
"Well, no way am I letting you girls get through that by yourselves. I'm going with." Flash Sentry said.
"I'm coming too. The other shadowbolts can tend to the wounded without me. Stopping this vine growth is my top priority." Night Wing said.
"Do you know where the tree is, Twilgiht?" Fluttershy asked.
"Yeah. It's where the infestation started: Everfree Forest." Twilight said.
Sometime later, the elements were returned to the tree of harmony and the vines were destroyed.
"Phew, that was tough. I don't know if we could've gotten through all that without your assistance." Twilight said to Night Wing and Flash Sentry.
"Hey, I'm just doing my duties here. Oh and Dash? Now we need to get back to tending to the injured." Night Wing said.
"Right behind you. Sorry girls, duty calls." Rainbow Dash said and left with Night Wng.
"I do wonder what was with that chest though. It's like a treasure box with seven locks." Flash Sentry said.
"Well Celestia did say I would not figure it out alone." Twilight said. "Whatever is in there must relate to my own personal Princess Duties." She added.
"Now I can't wait to find the first key. I doubt they'll be hiding in plain sight though." Flash Sentry said.
"Good point." Twilight said.
"Those two couldn't be more perfect for one another." Sunset said.
"Eeyep." Applejack agreed.
Author's Note
While it may sound like this is going into season 4 territory with the Plundervines being dealt with now, I decided to move the Plundervine event to a season three event due to the fact that the Plundervine event happened shortly after Twilight's accension. There will still be plenty of season three stuff happening here, but there will be a few events from season four mentioned and this is because the key episodes won't have any major changes from Sunset's presence though Sunset will be getting her own key episode.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
           Season 3: Episode 5 - Her first date            
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 5 - Her first date
"I'm admittedly a little nervous about today, Spike." Twilight said. "It's my first date with Flash Sentry and I don't want anything to go wrong." She added. "But dad told me just to wing it and be myself; it's how he acted towards my mom." The purple alicorn concluded.
"I know you can be hyper organized Twilight, but no amount of organization will prepare you for romance. Take it from someone whose love life is more or less fulfilled." Spike said. "Me and Sweetie Belle have spent lots of time together, and all the time I've done exactly what dad suggested you do: Be myself." He added.
"Really? From what I've seen, you two just look like friends." Twilight said.
"It would appear to anyone else that way sure, but that's only because we're both so young." Spike said. "We're not really the right age to start worrying about marriage or anything like that. It's why Sweetie Belle and I haven't been dating dating. But the time we're spending together now will prevent us from having any problems later I feel. We both just feel right together." He explained.
"I see...maybe I should try some of that with Flash from time to time..." Twilight said.
"Ask him if the date goes well." Spike said.
"You know what? I will." Twilight said.
Meanwhile, at Shadowbolt HQ, Rainbow Dash was playing a few games with Thunderlane. Normally the cyan mare wouldn't care for games, but she wants to get close to Thunderlane and he suggested they play a board game together. So now, Rainbow Dash is stepping out of her usual comfort zone for this occasion. However, Rainbow Dash didn't feel herself growing bored at all for some reason. It wasn't long before they were called to come practice by Night Wing however.
"Well drat." Thunderlane said. "And we were having quite a bit of fun too." He added.
"It was fun. I was expecting myself to grow seriously bored, but it seems that didn't happen." Rainbow Dash said. "Must've been because I was actually enjoying the time we were spending together." She added.
"Too true. Your something else, you know that Dash? After practice and we hit the showers, wanna go flying together? Nothing high speed, just a nice relaxing flight." Thunderlane said.
"Sure thing. You must have a reason for just going slow flying." Rainbow Dash said.
"Where do you think my endurance comes from? Trust me Dash, with enough time, you'll be able to handle high speeds a lot better with enough slow flying." Thunderlane said.
"Oh now you've got me interested. It's a date." Rainbow Dash said but blinked. "...Did I really just say that?" She asked.
"You did. But it's not really a date. A date is when you take someone out to someplace fancy." Thunderlane said.
"Thunderlane, you really need to rethink your definition of a date." Rainbow Dash said.
Note to self: Rethink your definition of a date... Twilight thought to herself. When Flash Sentry had asked the purple Alicorn on a date, Twilight expected them to be at a fancy restaurant, not strolling through town just doing all sorts of things together.
"Something the matter, Twilight?" Flash Sentry asked.
"Well, it's just that, I expected us to being eating out somewhere." Twilight said.
"Oh, don't worry, that's coming up." Flash Sentry said. "I'm interested in trying those hayburgers. From what I've been seeing, there's all sorts of veggies and fruits as well as other things that only an herbivore would eat." He noted.
"Well, I won't lie, Ponies are herbivores. Though, you'll have to excuse me if I end up with twenty something hayburgers." Twilight said. "I really, really like hayburgers in case you couldn't tell from that fact..." She added.
"You're exaggerating on the twenty hayburgers, right?" Flash Sentry asked.
Flash Sentry would soon find out that Twilight was not exaggerating.
"That was a nice flight." Rainbow Dash said to Thunderlane.
"Indeed it was. So, what do you say we go pop in Sugarcube Corner and grab a bite to eat?" Thunderlane said.
"Shouldn't you be going home? It's getting late." Rainbow Dash said.
"Oh, my house isn't that far from Sugarcube Corner." Thunderlane said. The duo arrived and found Scootaloo with some colt Rainbow didn't recognize. "Rumble? What are you doing here?" Thunderlane asked.
"Oh hey bro. Whose the mare?" Rumble asked. "Wait a second, isn't that Rainbow Dash?" He noticed.
"Bro? Wait, you and Thunderlane are brothers?!" Scootaloo exclaimed.
"Yes, yes we are." Rumble said. Scootaloo fainted. "...Was it something I said?" Rumble asked.
"No, it's the fact that I'm here with your brother. But give my little sister some time to collect her thoughts, and she'll be back to normal." Rainbow Dash said.
"Sister? Scootaloo is your sister?!" Rumble exclaimed. Rainbow Dash nodded, causing Rumble to faint now.
"...Well, that's something I didn't think would happen today." Thunderlane said.
"Well, that is something I didn't think would happen today. Don't most couples go a few dates before their first kiss?" Flash Sentry asked.
"I think so, but it just...it felt right. If that makes any sense." Twilight said. Flash sentry pulled Twilight into a wing hug.
"I don't mind it, but I just hope you're not trying to move too fast." Flash Sentry said.
"My apologies, I just...the sunset and the hill...I just couldn't help myself." Twilight said. "Perhaps love is more about feeling then thinking." She added.
"Well, I'm new to this love thing to, but I'm not complaining about the kiss we shared today. Well, I might as well get you home now." Flash Sentry said.
"Right. Let's have another date soon." Twilight said.
"You bet." Flash Sentry said.
"So, you and Thunderlane are getting together..." Scootaloo asked her sister as they arrived at Rainbow Dash's house.
"Yep." Rainbow Dash said.
"And Rumble happens to be his brother who I've actually become interested in as a coltfriend." Scootlaoo said.
"Eeyep." Rainbow Dash said.
"So, am I the only one who thinks there's something weird going on here with us two sisters dating those two?" Scootaloo asked.
"Well, I for one am glad you want to try and have someone yourself. I was worried I'd leave you behind." Rainbow Dash said.
"Ha! Fat chance of that happening! Thanks to Rumble's help, I might be able to fly soon." Scootaloo said.
"That's good to hear." Rainbow Dash said. "But if he ever gives you trouble..." She added.
"I think I can handle him." Scootaloo said.
"If you couldn't, then I'd be worried." Rainbow Dash said. The two sisters entered the house and headed for bed.
Author's Note
Yeah, I had to include the fandom canon thing about Twilight being obsessed with Hayburgers here. Simply because I can.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
    Season 3: Episode 6 - Castle Mane-ia (WFS Version)     
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 6 - Castle Mane-ia (WFS Version)
"No luck on finding anything about that darn chest yet, sis?" Sunset asked.
"Nope. I've been over every book here in the library. With some help from Flash Sentry." Twilight said.
"And yet nothing in any book mentions anything about a chest being hidden by the Tree of Harmony." Flash said. "Though it did give me an excuse to find some interesting books to read." He added.
"Heh...Yeah you and my surrogate little sister are going to get along just fine." Sunset admitted with a smirk.
"SUNSET!" Twilight yelled.
"I thought older siblings; surrogate or not; were supposed to protect their younger siblings?" Flash asked.
"Hey, you practically chased Twilight here. That takes guts. As far as I'm concerned, Twilight's lucky to have you." Sunset said. "I'm not jealous about it. Well...okay maybe I am a little. But at least I'm not about to go something akin to Nightmare Moon because of it." She added.
"Nightmare Moon?" Flash asked in confusion as he tilted his head.
"Something that we went through before we chased after Sunburst." Twilight said. "And before I became a princess." She added, flexing her wings.
"If you ask me, the only thing that's changed about you right now sis, is the fact that you have to constantly remind the townsfolk to not address you as royalty because they know you from before." Sunset said.
"That's only because it's true." Twilight said. "The ponies in this town do know me from before I became an alicorn princess." She added.
"Hey, if you ask me, you just seem to fit the role. Even in the human world, you had that attutide that if you ask me, gives you the right kind of mindset to make you a perfect candidate to have become Princess." Flash Sentry said. Twilight blushed from the compliment.
"Wow Twilight; you sure know how to pick your coltfriends. He's not just smart, he's quite the smooth talker." Sunset said. "But enough about that, I'm going to have Spike send a letter to Princess Celestia." Sunset said.
"Eh?" Flash Sentry tilted his head in confusion.
"Why do that?" Twilight asked.
"I'm asking her if she thinks something from the canterlot archives would be able to answer our problem." Sunset said. Suddenly Spike came in with Sweetie Belle.
"Oh hey you three. Me and Sweetie Belle wanted to hang out here in the Library for the day." Spike said.
"Spike, can you send this to Princess Celestia please?" Sunset asked, showing the letter.
"Sure thing Sunset." Spike said and sent off the letter.
"...How does that work? Oh wait. Magic. Almost forgot: Different world, different rules." Flash Sentry said.
"Easy mistake." Twilight said, before leaning her head onto Flash Sentry.
"Wow, not even subtle are you?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"Your one to talk Sweetie; you sometimes do the same to me." Spike said before he burped up a letter.
"That must be the response." Flash said.
"Dear Sunset Shimmer, while the Canterlot Achieves indeed have many documents, I believe you might have better luck in the old castle located in the Everfree Forest. It contains books from one thousand years ago. I would suggest starting with the books there instead." Sunset read off.
"That place again? I think my sister went to grab Fluttershy for someone to bring with her to restore a few things from that place." Sweetie Belle said.
"Well, then let's not waste any time. Spike, you and Sweetie Belle can stay here." Twilight said.
"I will. I promised Rarity I'd protect Sweetie Belle no matter what." Spike said.
"Your growing up Spike~" Sunset said.
Later, the elements plus Flash were reunited in the room where Twilight found the journal of the two sisters.
"Pony of Shadows sounds like something from a fairy tale." Flash Sentry said.
"Well, some things are based in some kind of fact." Twilgiht noted. Suddenly a female cry pierced the area.
"Wh-what's that about?" Rainbow Dash noted.
"Well don't look at me. It's not me this time." Pinkie Pie noted.
"Well if she's here, then whose making that racket?" Applejack asked, the crying getting louder.
"I think it's best if we checked it out." Twilight noted and headed off with her friends in tow. The group soon came across what looked to be a filly version of Nightmare Moon, only the cutie mark was different, and she had on a green jacket with some glasses laying next to her.
"Um...hello? Wh-who are you?" Twilight asked the filly. The filly looked at Twilight and went wide eyed before tackling the purple alicorn into a hug.
"Mommy!" The apparent baby Nightmare moon said.
"Mommy?!" Pratically everyone else said.
"Well as far as I can tell..." Princess Celestia said. "This filly seems to come back and read as an entity from a different version of Equestria." She added.
"Oh no..." The apparent baby nightmare moon said. "I got sent to an alternate equestria because of some stupid comic I was reading." She added.
"So, do you have some name do you go by besides Nightmare Moon?" Rainbow Dash asked. The filly nodded.
"Uh-huh; my momma named me Nyx." The filly answered.
"Nyx...yeah that sounds like something Twilight would name something like you." Sunset said. The filly looked at Sunset strangely. "...Why are you looking at me like that?" She asked.
"Sunset Shimmer?" Nyx asked.
"That's me kiddo." Sunset said.
"Why are you here in equestria? In my version, you were tasked by momma to learn friendship in the human world." Nyx said.
"You've been to the human world in your version of Equestria?" Twilight asked.
"Uh-huh. My Princess Celestia said it was fine for me to go with momma because there would be no way for us to encounter my counterpart." Nyx said.
"So, I only have a question then: How did you help your Twilight out with Chrysalis?" Sunset asked.
"I simply made a scene to get momma away from meanie Chrysalis while she was disguised as Cadence. A very believable scene too. My Princess Celestia even bought it. Not to mention my Applejack too." Nyx said.
"What exactly did you do?" Applejack asked.
"Made it look like something was trying to control me by firing off random magic blasts." Nyx said. "Considering I was created using the essence of Nightmare Moon and some of my Twilight's Blood, it was an easy sell." She added.
"So wait, you are a magically created being?" Twilight asked.
"Uh-huh. Though it looks like you and your Pony Flash Sentry are getting together." Nyx said.
"Shining Armor checked once I came over. There's no counterpart to me." Flash Sentry said. "I'm from the human world." He added. Nyx went wide eyed.
"First Sunset now him? I'm going to need to know everything from beginning to end." Nyx said.
"Sure just...take a seat for a while." Spike said.
"So wait, what about me and my fellow crusaders?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"Oh you girls? You're my best friends. And even after I got my cutie mark, you girls still let me be a crusader and help out." Nyx admitted.
"I guess we would do that huh? Especially if you didn't have one when we first met you." Sweetie Belle said.
"Twist is one too. Though an additional reason is because my Diamond Tiara still bullied her." Nyx said.
"You tell us your history, we'll tell you ours. Sound good kiddo?" Sunset asked.
"Sure Miss Sunset." Nyx said.
"...Going to have to get used to something similar to that I can already tell..." Sunset said.
Author's Note
Raise your hand if you expected me to do THIS of all things in this universe. This might more than make up for the fact that I didn't change much otherwise with this episode.
Nyx is a character created by Pen Stroke - Fimfiction (https://www.fimfiction.net/user/3291/Pen+Stroke) in their story Past Sins - Fimfiction (https://www.fimfiction.net/story/41596/past-sins).

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Season 3: Episode 7 - Prologue to the Crisis        
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 3: Episode 7 - Prologue to the Crisis
As Twilight and Flash Sentry enjoyed their time together, suddenly out of nowhere, a rift opened up in the sky above the Town Square. The pair saw a pony fall out of the rift and onto the pavement of the town square.
"I hope that pony is okay." Flash Sentry said.
"We should go make sure of that." Twilight said and hurried over to the pony. They bore a pink fur coat with a blonde mane and tail. There was also a setting sun for her cutie mark. However, the pony just barely woke up when Twilight came up to them before passing out completely.
"Who do you think this is?" Flash Sentry asked.
"I don't know. We best get them into the Library." Twilight said and carried the unconcious unicorn into the Library.
A couple of hours later, Twilight was standing over the unicorn as she woke up.
"Hey, are you okay? You were out of it for a while." Twilight said. The Unicorn gasped before getting out of bed and bowing to Twilight.
"P-Princess Twilight! Thank god I found you." The Unicorn said.
"Err...you know me?" Twilight asked.
"Of course I do! I may be from another version of Equestria, but I could never forget you. Even if you're a lot younger then the version of you I met." The Unicorn said. "I'm Luster Dawn. I was sent back in time by a version of you in order to prevent a great calamity from occurring. As was foretold by Starswirl the Bearded." She added.
"Well...I guess I can trust you. I mean, you were chosen by a version of me after all." Twilight said.
"I see our guest is up." Flash Sentry said as he came up the stairs.
"Wait this is THAT version?" Luster Dawn said. "Is he from the human world?" She asked.
"How do you know that?" Twilight asked.
"My version of you showed me the mirror and told me all about it." Luster Dawn said.
"So why does it matter where he's from?" Twilight asked.
"Because then based on what my version of you said...there's one more future visitor coming." Luster Dawn said. Suddenly another rift opened up above Ponyville Park that Twilight could see from out the window. Rushing, she and Flash Sentry headed out but soon found a young Pegasus filly sporting a similar mane style to Twilight Sparkle managed to catch herself before she hit the ground too hard.
"Oof...that was a rough trip..." The Pegasus filly said.
"Who's this?" Flash Sentry asked. "She looks like a female version of me sporting Twilight's hairstyle." He noted.
"Um...I can't really say why. Because Time Paradoxes can be a thing. All I can tell you is that my name is Moonlight Star." The Pegasus filly said.
"Don't question it. Please." Luster Dawn said.
"So, were you sent by some future version of me because of the same reasons as Luster Dawn here?" Twilight asked.
"Uh-huh. Mostly because this is supposed to happen. Because future you said that this was part of the bootstrap paradox." Moonlight Star said.
"Yeah, that was a thing neither me nor Sunset will ever forget." Twilight said, looking off to the side. "But this would mean you somehow solved the five-minute time limit." She added.
"Oh, there's no time limit on this until history completes itself. That's why I'm here along with Moonlight Star." Luster Dawn said. "Until the both of us help you stop the oncoming calamity in full, we can't go back." She added.
"Oh. I guess that would solve the five-minute thing if you specifically have to be here until the calamity is fully resolved." Twilight said.
"Who's this?" Nyx said, as she came up to the group alongside Sunset.
"...Allow me to catch you two up to speed." Twilight said.
"I see..." Sunset said. "You know, Moonlight Star, you look like you could be related to Twilight and Flash here." She added.
"I really can't say anything. Future Twilight specifically told me that I can't tell you who my parents are so that my parents can still become my parents." Moonlight Star said.
"Well, I'm sure that no matter who ends up your parents, they must really want you to make sure you don't cause anything to go wrong between their past selves." Rainbow Dash said. "Or make it look like it's destiny." She added before rolling her eyes. Even if the answer to who her parents are is literally written all over her. The Cyan Pegasus thought to herself.
"Th-thanks Rainbow Dash." Moonlight Star said.
"So, what kind of calamity would require two future beings to be sent into the past by a future version of me?" Twilight said. Suddenly Spike burped up a letter.
"Oh, this is not good." Spike said as he read the letter. "According to this letter, Canterlot is being attacked by mind-controlled citizens. Though not by Sombra." Spike said.
"What makes the sisters so sure?" Sunset asked.
"Because the glow in their eyes was pure black, not green like with Sombra." Spike noted from the letter.
"Then it's began." Luster Dawn said.

//-------------------------------------------------------//
       Season 1: Episode 6 Extra - The Search Begins       
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 1: Episode 6 Extra - The Search Begins
“And done. Thanks for helping with the move Moondancer.” Twilight said.
“Hey, so long as you two stay in touch, I don’t mind you coming here.” Moondancer said. “And I’ll see what I can find out about Sunset’s brother in Canterlot. She’s my friend too.” She said.
“Thank you so much. With all this help maybe just maybe my brother can be found.” Sunset said.
“After all the time you spent helping Twilight become the person she is today, helping you is the least we can all do.” Fluttershy said. “Plus your mother’s health is important. And she deserves to know the truth so she can get her health back on track.” She added.
“I may be able to ask my customers to keep a look out as well. The more people looking the better.” Rarity said.
“One way or another, we’ll find your brother Sunset. Even if takes us a few months. We’ll find him.” Rainbow Dash said.
“Even though it’s been too long, ah know you won’t give up hope.” Applejack said.
“Until we find him, I won’t give up hope he might be alive, even if the reality is the opposite.” Sunset said.
“Don’t worry Sunset. Unless we find evidence that he was attacked, we have to go on the belief he could very well still be alive. And after all you’ve done for me, finding your brother while we learn about friendship is the least I can do for all you’ve done.” Twilight said.
“Twilight’s right, we have to look on the bright side. And when we find your brother, I think I should throw a ‘We Found Sunset’s Brother’ party.” Pinkie Pie said.
“That sounds like fun; I’ll join you all.” Moondancer said.
“Thanks you guys. And your right, until we have evidence otherwise, let’s assume he’s still alive.” Sunset said.
“Yeah!” Everyone yelled out and hoofbumped each other.
"Until something comes up, let's all hang out and do some stuff. Especially with Moondancer here." Twilight said. "What do you say Moondancer, think you'd like a tour of ponyville today?" Twilight asked. Moondancer gasped.
"THAT WOULD BE GREAT! THANKS TWILIGHT!" Moondancer yelled out, practically beaming.
"Moondancer is...interesting to say the least." Rarity said.
"Meh...she's always been enthusiastic. If I didn't know any better, I'd think there's a version of Equestria where she and Twilight were like twin sisters despite not actually being sisters." Sunset said. Everyone couldn't help but laugh at that before heading out to give Moondancer the Ponyville Tour.
Author's Note
So yes, this is a mini-sode and I decided to include a small little cross-over reference to "Enthusastic Friendship"

//-------------------------------------------------------//
   Season 2: Episode 1 Extra - Chaotic Empathy Part 1.5    
//-------------------------------------------------------//
Season 2: Episode 1 Extra - Chaotic Empathy Part 1.5
"Okay, let me just make sure I've got this right..." Sunset said. "When you came clean about Sweetie Belle being your daughter and not your sister, you told us about this stallion who goes by the name of Lucky Belle. When you told us about him, you said that at first, many believe that despite being a unicorn, Lucky Belle seemingly had no magic yet was insanely lucky. You went on to tell us that Lucky Belle's magic worked different then normal, and it took somepony else to see that the insane luck Lucky Belle had was really his magic acting in a way that was much different then before." She expalined. "You also told us that he was Sweetie Belle's father. So I have to ask one thing before I continue: Did the two of you ever get married?" Sunset asked.
"Yes. We were both very much in love with one another." Rarity said.
"Okay, that does make sense. So, you married him, had a child with him, but just a couple of months after Sweetie Belle's first birthday, Lucky Belle died as his luck finally ran out." Sunset said. "But now your telling us, that of all the ponies in the world, Lucky Belle is the half-brother to Prince Blueblood?" She asked.
"He was only my half-brother sure, but he was still family to me." Prince Blueblood said.
"But that would mean, by proxy, because Prince Blueblood is Lucky Belle's half-brother, that would make Prince Blueblood Sweetie Belle's uncle." Sunset said.
"I know it's hard to believe. I can hardly believe it myself. I never thought I'd live to see myself become somepony's uncle." Prince Blueblood said.
"...As of this moment, Sunset.exe has stopped working..." Sunset said before fainting.
"That's...more or less how everyone here feels about that." Rainbow Dash said.
"Did she seriously just make a programming joke?" Prince Blueblood asked.
"Classic Sunset..." Twilight said.
"That's going to be one heck of a visit to see family..." Applejack admitted. "It's one thing when your family is everywhere in Equestria, it's another when one of yer family members is related to a prince..." She added.
"Exactly my point..." Sunset said, still on the ground from fainting.
Author's Note
I know it's only a short chapter, but I would not have room to put THIS scene in the actual Part 2 AND what my plans are for the Grand Galloping Gala in this universe.