A Crystalling Tail

by Magic Kitsune Brony

Rating: everyone
Tags: Adventure, Equestria Girls, Princess Celestia, Sunset Shimmer, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Main 6, Drama
Length: 10472

What if Starlight wasn't the only pony to have a friendship lesson in the Crystal Empire

What if Starlight wasn't the only pony to have a friendship lesson in the Crystal Empire? What if this pony didn't go as a pony? It's time for a long overdue reunion between teacher and student

Published 2021-07-17 10:50:01 UTC
Last updated 2022-01-01 09:42:40 UTC

Chapter 1

“Your first friendship lesson is going to be… reuniting with Sunburst!”

“Greeeaaat.”

Spike watched as Starlight started looking more worried about her first friendship lesson. ‘Hmm, I wish I could help Starlight with her first lesson,’ he thought, sighing.

Then a light bulb went off in his head and his face lit up, ‘Wait! Who says she has to be the only one doing a friendship lesson in the Crystal Empire? If I remember correctly, all the princesses will be there, including Princess Celestia and I do believe a reunion is long overdue. And her last couple of letters did say she is feels like she is ready.’

Spike smiled a big grin, happy to have thought of an amazing plan, but then he remembered, ‘Oh, right! There was that other thing she wrote in her letters. I better send out some notices, to prevent a panic.’

He ran off to a secluded part of the castle, picked up a book with a shimmering sun on the front, opened it up and started writing

“Is everypony ready to go?” Twilight asked, looking at her friends gathered around the cutie map. They all nodded at once.

“Absolutely, darling,” Rarity confirmed.

“Hey, Twilight,” said Spike, as he walked into the throne room.

“Spike! Where have you been? Are you ready to go to the Crystal Empire?” asked Twilight.

“Well, um, err,” Spike stammered, giving the doorway a quick, nervous look, before sighing and explaining, “Well, I noticed that Starlight was looking a little nervous about her first friendship lesson, so I might have invited somepony to come with us. So, Starlight won’t have to be the only pony doing a friendship lesson there.”

“Really? Okay. I wish you had told me before-hoof, but if you think it will help, then more the merrier,” Twilight said, smiling down at her assistant. “Bring them in.”

“Before I do, I better tell you that, though she is technically a pony, she has decided to come as a non-pony,” Spike nervously said, sweating a little

“A non-pony that is technically a pony? What are you talking about, Spike?” Rainbow Dash asked, looking at Twilight to see if she knew, but Twilight, seeing Rainbow’s look, just shrugged.

“It’s probably better if you see for yourself, all I can say is that thank Celestia, you told Starlight about the mirror portal,” Spike said, turning to the door way, “You can come in now.”

“Mirror portal?” Twilight asked with a confused look, followed by a sudden look of realization. “Wait! You mean…”

“Hey, Twilight,” said a female voice

All the ponies looked towards the door, to see what looked like an almost hairless ape, about as tall as Celestia, with a red and gold mane, yellow/orange skin and cyan coloured eyes. She was wearing blue pants, a light blue shirt with an attached see-through light-yellow shirt, a black leather jacket with orange chevrons on the sleeves, and boots to match the jacket. She had a bag on her back and what looked like a red crystal necklace around her neck

“Sunset Shimmer?” Twilight asked, not believing what she was seeing in front of her.

“Sunset Shimmer!” all the other ponies exclaimed, looking at the human girl up and down

“Heh, hi,” Sunset said sheepishly. “Sorry about the whole human thing. It's just that, I’ve been the other world for so long, I kinda prefer being human instead of pony. That, and I promised my friends I would find out what the size difference between ponies and humans is and get plenty of pictures. And, of course, to do a very important friendship lesson.”

Twilight shook her head to clear her thoughts and looked at Spike, who also looked sheepish, “So, this is what you meant by non-pony and mirror portal.”

“Yep,” Spike replayed, “And don’t worry about anypony panicking, I already sent out notices, basically explaining what Sunset just said, without mentioning the mirror.”

“Well, I suppose that is okay,” Twilight said, looking back up at Sunset. “I guess I should introduce you to everypony, though you sort of know most of them, or at least their human counterparts.” She introduced her friends and student to Sunset.

"Yay! New friend!" Pinkie Pie yelled, pulling out her party cannon and setting it off. "I should throw you a 'Welcome Back to Equestria' party!"

"Um, maybe later," Sunset said, pulling confetti out of her hair.

“So, this is what a ‘hooman’ looks like?” Applejack asked, looking up at Sunset.

“Yep, and it’s pronounced ‘human’,” Sunset replied.

“So, what friendship lesson are you doing at the Crystal Empire?” Starlight asked.

“I’m going to apologize to Princess Celestia,” Sunset said, looking down with guilt. “For being a horrible student.”

"I just remembered, don't you have school, Sunset?" Twilight asked.

"Nope, it's the weekend, and as much as I would love to hang out with the girls, they all had other commitments," Sunset said.

"What sort of commitments?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"Well, let's see," Sunset said, counting off her fingers, "Pinkie is babysitting the Cake twins, Rainbow is going to watch a football match with the family, Fluttershy is working down at the animal shelter, Rarity is on a spa retreat with Sweetie Belle, AJ is, of course, working on the farm, and Sci-Twi is working on some big secret science project."

"Sci-Twi?" Pinkie asked, snickering.

"Sort for Science Twilight. It's the nickname we gave Twilight's human counterpart," Sunset replied.

“So, do you have everything you need, Sunset?" Twilight asked, looking at her human friend.

"Yep, I've got everything in this bag," Sunset replied, patting her bag, "I even packed some homework. Just because I'm in Equestria, doesn't mean I can get out of doing homework. I've also packed some games, some snacks, a coat and my pyjamas, just in case."

"OK then, then I propose we start heading to the station,” Twilight suggested, heading towards the door.

“Yeah! Let’s go! It's time for a party in the Crystal Empire!” Pinkie Pie yelled, bouncing up and down.

Author's Note

Hi, Everypony,

Hope you like the story.

Just to let you know, I'm having a little trouble deciding on something for later in the story. I'm just having a hard time imaging, when the heart releases it's magic, a crystal human. I have a few ideas, so let me know in the comments which of the following options you think could work for Sunset Shimmer:

Normal Pony-up

Legend of Everfree Pony-up

Daydream Shimmer

Chapter 2

As the Friendship Express chugged along, 7 ponies, a dragon and a human occupied themselves in the carriage they were in. Rainbow Dash, after having a nap, gave a big yawn and looked behind her at Applejack who had a hoof on an item that was under a sheet.

“Um, Applejack, what is that?” She asked

“Oh, just a little somethin’ for the young’un,” she answered, then she lifted the sheet to reveal a baby bed. “Made from genuine Sweet Apple Acres apple trees. We made ‘em for all the Apples, and anypony related to Twilight is practically family.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Yeah, it’s okay… But it’s no Cloudsdale mobile! Bam!” She said, pulling out a cloud and rainbow themed mobile

“Ooh, pretty!” Pinkie Pie tried playing with it, only for one of the clouds to fall of it, causing Rainbow to glare at her

“Well, a mobile is real nice… as long as you have somethin’ to lay in so you can look at it,” Applejack countered. She than looked over as the apple themed blanket was replaced with a white one with purple horseshoes.

“And a fetching blanket to keep you warm,” Rarity said, smiling at her work

“Hey, did you bring anything Sunset?” Rainbow asked

Sunset looked up from the text she was reading on her phone. She leaned over to her bag and pulled out a green and orange snail plushie. “Yea, I stopped by the local toy shop on the way to the portal. I just picked the first thing I saw. I hope the baby likes it.”

“Aww, so cute,” Fluttershy said, smiling at the snail

Twilight simply smiled at them. “I’m sure Shining Armor and Princess Cadance will love all our gifts. But I think they’re more happy we’ll be attending the baby’s Crystalling”

“Ooh! I can’t wait to see all that light and love make the Crystal Heart even more sparkly and shiny!” Pinkie exclaimed

“Actually, Pinkie, the Crystal Heart is an ancient and powerful relic. Without its magic, the Crystal Empire would be lost to the Frozen North,” Twilight explained

“Wow, this Crystalling sounds pretty important. I’d understand if you wanted to… you know… wait to do a different friendship lesson when we get back,” Starlight tried to suggest

“Are you kidding? This trip is perfect! Not only do I get to see the baby and take part in the ceremony that helps maintain the magic of the Crystal Empire, but I’m starting my new pupil off with the most amazing friendship lesson ever! I can’t wait!” Twilight gushed

“Right… Me neither…” Starlight said nervously “Actually, Twilight, I am a little worried about meeting Sunburst.”

“Oh, trust me. I know what it’s like to see old friends. But I’ll be right there to help things along. I’ve broken the whole lesson down into a few easy steps to ensure this reunion goes off without a hitch!” Twilight said as she unravelled a long list

Starlight gave a nervous laugh before turning to Sunset, asking a question that had been on her mind. “Um, say, Sunset.” Sunset looked up. “Twilight explained the mirror portal to me, I have to ask, how are you still human?”

“Actually, I’ve been wondering that myself,” Twilight agreed, after rolling up her list. All the other ponies turned to look at her, curious about the answer too

“I’m still human thanks to Spike having a book with a long-term transformation spell already for me when I came through,” Sunset answered, giving the dragon a grateful smile

“Really?” Twilight lifted an eyebrow at Spike

“Yea. I remembered in one of the Sunset’s journal entries, that she had mention that she would prefer being human here. So, I went looking for a book with the right spell in it, so it was ready for when she eventually came,” Spike said, smiling proudly

“It did take a couple of tries to get it right, I’m a little rusty in the magic department, but I got there. The spell should last about two days, by which time I will be back in the human world,” Sunset explained

“That’s pretty cool,” Starlight commented. “So, how do you feel about the reunion coming up?”

“A little nervous, but with the support from my friends and family back home, I know I’m ready,” Sunset replied. “I just hope Celestia accepts my apology.”

“Don’t worry, I’ve been telling Celestia every you’ve done in the other world,” Twilight assured. “Especially about the Battle of the Bands and what you did for my counterpart at the Friendship Games.”

“Thanks, Twilight,” Sunset smiled

The train pulled into the station and everyone followed Twilight as they got off the train. Twilight was busy reading the list for Starlight’s lesson

“… Step one, head to Sunburst’s house and get you two started on the right hoof. Step two, get to the castle with enough time to visit the ba-” Twilight was cut off when she bumped into her very tired looking brother, Shining Armor

“Shining Armor!” Twilight exclaimed excitedly, giving the list to Spike to hold

“Twilight…!” Shining greeted tiredly

“I didn’t know you were meeting us!” Twilight smiled

“Of course, I am! It’s me, right here. Here I am. Why wouldn’t I come meet my sister? Though we have met before, heh-heh…” Shining laughed

“Wow, he does not look good,” Sunset commented to the other ponies, all of which nodded in agreement

“Are you all right?” Twilight asked

“Never better! Being a father is amazing! And wonderful, and amazing, and confusing, and amazing, but surprising too, you know? I mean, not that you’d know. You wouldn’t know, I know… you know?” Shining rambled until he saw the worried looks being sent his way, he sighed. “Sorry. I haven’t really slept since Cadance had the baby. Come to think of it, she hasn’t either. It sure would be great to get a break.”

Twilight’s eyes widen in realisation. “Oh, of course! I don’t know what I was thinking! You two probably need all kinds of help!” She turned to Starlight. “I’m sorry, Starlight, but I guess combining your first lesson with this visit wasn’t such a good idea.”

“Oh, uh, don’t be ridiculous! You’re an aunt now! That’s way more important than some friendship lesson,” Starlight said nervously

Twilight sighed. “I just wish there was a way to do both.”

Spike looked down at the list in his claw and then a light bulb went off in his head. “Maybe there is! You’ve already done the work for Starlight’s lesson with this list. All we have to do is follow it!”

Twilight’s face lit up. “Spike, you’re a genius!”

Starlight nervously laughed. “Yeah… genius.”

“Then it’s settled! Shining Armor and I will head straight to the castle, and you two can head straight to Sunburst’s!” Twilight said

“Aye-aye, Princess!” Spike saluted, then walked towards their destination. Starlight looked at the princess nervously before turning and following the young dragon.

“Good luck, you two!” Sunset shouted after them

“You too, Sunset!” Spike shouted back

“Alright, big brother, let’s go see this amazing baby pony!” Twilight turned back to her brother, only to find him sleep standing up

“Ahhh… the baby…” Shining snored

Author's Note

The snail is basically Flurry's whammy:

Coming up next chapter, the apology and of course a super powered baby

Chapter 3

“I hope they get here soon,” Princess Cadance sighed, as she along with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna waited for Twilight and her friends to arrive. She and Luna were also nervous, due to knowing who one of the friends was. Both of them had gotten Spike's letter a few hours ago, explaining the situation

“Don’t worry, Cadance. Shining Armor should be arriving with them soon,” Celestia assured her.

There was a knock on the door and the princesses saw Shining Armor ducking his head in, “Um, Princess Celestia, there’s a pony here to see you.”

“I’m sure they can wait,” Celestia said.

“Actually, sister, I think it would good for you to see this pony now,” Luna said, with Cadance nodding in agreement.

“You know who it is, don’t you?” Celestia asked, eyes narrowing at them.

“We may have an idea, yes,” Luna answered.

“Well, if you think I should,” Celestia said hesitantly, already moving towards the door.

“Yes. You should,” Cadance agreed.

Celestia followed Shining out the door and down the hall to a room a few doors from the nursery. She walked in to find a bipedal creature standing nervously in the middle of the room. She was confused for a moment, before she noticed the hair. Despite the appearance, she would always recognise that mane anyway.

“Sunset Shimmer?” She asked, hoping this wasn’t a dream and that her former student had returned.

“Princess Celestia, I know you probably have mixed feelings about seeing me. But I want you to know,” Sunset started, with tears starting to drip down her face. “I am so, so, sorry Princess. I am so sorry and ashamed of what I did. I was a horrible student and pony. I did so many terrible things, I ignored your teachings and ran out on you. I don’t know how I could possibly make it up to you. But I'll-” She was shock to find herself in Celestia’s wings. “How can you forgive me so easily? I thought you would hate me.”

“Oh, my dear Sunset. I could never hate you. I was sad and scared of the dark path you were heading down, just like my sister,” Celestia assured, crying herself.

“But you were right to be scared, because I did end up on that dark road,” Sunset tried to say.

“But you found the right path again, my dear student. And you did it by yourself. And I am so proud of you for finding it again,” Celestia looked at her ex-student, a watery smile on her face.

“I didn’t do it all on my own,” Sunset smiled. “I did it with the help of my friends.”

“Yes, so Twilight has told me. I also saw what you did for the other world’s Twilight,” Celestia said.

“What? How?” Sunset asked.

“One of those rifts opened up near me, and I saw what happened,” Celestia answered.

“Oh,” Was all Sunset could say.

After that, they spent a few minutes just hugging in silence. Celestia then ended the hug and looked at Sunset, smiling.

“Now, I do believe you, Twilight and friends came here to see a baby,” she said. Sunset just nodded. “Well, let’s not keep everypony waiting.”

They walked out of the room and over to where Twilight, Shining and the others were waiting outside of the nursery. Twilight smiled at Sunset when she simply nodded in a ‘it’s all good’ way, then turned to Shining when he cleared his throat to get everyone’s attention.

“Before we go in, I should probably tell you. Seeing the baby might be a bit of a shock,” he advised.

“Come on, big brother. I’ve meet babies before. I expect meeting this one won’t be any different,” Twilight said, as she and the others walked into the nursery. She smiled down at the unicorn foal, until she gasped when the wrappings fell away to revealing big alicorn wings.

The foal simply sat there cooing as Twilight stared, not believing what she was seeing. “Of course, I could be wrong,” she managed to say. Sunset stood there, just as stun, but her arm automatically reached into her pocket and pulled her phone out for a photo, the girls were not going to believe this without the proof.

“The baby is an Alicorn?!” Twilight exclaimed, as the baby continued to burble.

“It looks that way,” Cadance said tiredly.

Rarity was still in shock as she said, “But… But… But I thought Alicorn wings had to be earned by accomplishing some great, princess-worthy deed!”

Applejack nodded in agreement. “Yeah. How can you just be born with ‘em?”

“The birth of an Alicorn is something Equestria has never seen!” Celestia told them.

“It is beyond even our understanding,” Luna agreed.

“That’s not very reassuring,” Fluttershy said nervously.

“Wow! A unicorn, and a Pegasus! So, she could be a super-strong flyer and have crazy baby magic!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Well, I know all about super-strong flying!” Rainbow bragged.

“And I can help keep tabs on your magic!” Twilight suggested.

They heard the baby starting to sneeze and stood in awe as a beam of magic shot from the little one’s horn and through a couple of floors above them.

Sunset couldn’t help but say, “The Force is strong with this one.”

“What?” Rainbow raised an eyebrow at her.

“Um, never mind. It’s a human reference,” Sunset blushed, before looking back at the baby as Celestia spoke.

“It appears her magic is more powerful than that of a new-born unicorn!” she said, after getting her wits about her.

Luna looked out the nearby window. “The crowds have already started to gather.”

Pinkie randomly blew up a balloon, then said “This Crystalling is gonna be some party!” Before popping the balloon.

“Do you think we should call it off?” Cadance asked Shining.

“Um, we’ve all faced a lot worse than baby magic,” Rainbow scoffed.

“I can’t imagine cancelling such a beautiful and important ceremony over something so potentially adorable!” Rarity commented, everyone agreeing with her.

Celestia turned to Cadance. “In light of the little one’s abilities, this Crystalling might be more important than ever. Perhaps you should address your subjects and remind them of that,” she suggested.

Cadance nodded in agreement before leaning over to kiss the baby on the forehead, as she obliviously babbled away, then walked out to see to her subjects. Twilight walked over to where Shining just stood to the side, eyes closed and snoring.

“Shining Armor! Do you have everything you need for the ceremony?” She asked.

“Huh? Oh, no! I still have to interview the honour guards, choose the purity crystal, and pick a crystaller!” Shining panicked while pacing, before sitting down shaking.

This guy seriously needs to relax and have a coffee, Sunset thought.

“Alright, take it easy. Pinkie and Sunset can stay here with me and keep an eye on the baby,” Twilight calmly said, turning to watch the baby climb onto Pinkie’s face, giggling. “Oh, if you don’t mind, Sunset.”

“Nah,” Sunset replied. “I don’t mind. I sometimes help human Pinkie Pie with babysitting, and besides, no way am I giving up the chance to look after a baby alicorn.”

“And we’ll all help Shinin’ Armor with everythin’ else,” Applejack suggested. Everyone turned to see that Shining had again fallen asleep.

“That is, if you can stay awake long enough to tell us how,” Rarity raised an eyebrow.

Yep, he definitely needs a coffee, Sunset couldn’t help thinking again.

Author's Note

The apology was inspired by the scene from Avatar: The Last Airbender, where Zuko apologises to Iroh
As for the Star Wars reference, I was going to do something else but decided to leave it for later
Hope you enjoyed the chapter

Chapter 5

All the ponies plus one human stared in shock at the shattered remains of the Crystal Heart. They still couldn’t believe what happened. Rarity walked up to the crystal shards.

“So…” She started. “Not only can we not take part in a fabulous ancient ceremony, but we’re also about to be frozen solid!”

“Without the Crystal Heart’s magical protection, the entire city’s about to become a winter wasteland!” Twilight exclaimed.

“But what about when King Sombra ruled the Crystal Empire and the Crystal Heart was missin’?” Applejack wondered. “The city wasn’t covered in snow then!”

“The Heart wasn’t missing.” Twilight explained. “It was still in the castle. King Sombra had just hidden it.”

“I’m afraid Twilight is correct,” Celestia said, as lightning flashed across the sky. “And the storm clouds are already forming.”

“I can totally fly up there and bust those puppies! No problem!” Rainbow boasted. She tried to fly through the curtains but was pulled back by Celestia’s magic.

“I wouldn’t advise it, Rainbow Dash.” She told the blue pegasus. “Those storm clouds are not like the ones you know.”

“This far north, the weather has a will of its own,” Luna continued. “And now it will only grow stronger, enveloping everything in its path.”

“Including the Crystal Empire!” Cadance worried, holding the baby closer to her.

“And us along with it!” Twilight moved away from the curtains as the wind blew in. “There must be a spell that can restore the Crystal Heart!”

“Perhaps,” Celestia said thoughtfully.

“But it isn’t something that either of us know,” Luna replied.

“The library here at the castle is nearly as extensive as the one in Canterlot. There’s a good chance we can find something there!” Cadance suggested.

Twilight turned to Celestia and Luna. “Can you hold off the storm?” She asked them.

“Yes, for a time,” Luna answered. “But even our magic will eventually succumb to the power of the Frozen North.”

“We will do what we can, but you must hurry,” Celestia said, before the sisters flew out of the castle to battle the storm.

“I don’t know how long it will take to find the right spell,” Twilight said, turning to her friends. “But you should probably tell the crowd outside to get somewhere warm!”

“And try not to mention the Crystal Heart. We don’t want to start a panic,” Cadance cautioned.

“Yes, ma’am. C’mon girls!” Applejack nodded, then she, Fluttershy and Rainbow ran outside.

“I’m gonna need all of your help. The crystal library is enormous!” Twilight pointed out to the remaining ponies and human.

“I’ll help as best as I can,” Sunset nodded.

“Thanks Sunset,” Twilight said.

“You can count on us Twily!” Shining said.

The baby then teleported herself over onto Sunset’s face, who jumped a little, “Whoa.” Once she was calm, she gently pried the baby off her face and held her in her arms. “Take it easy there, kid. We don’t need you hurting yourself. Geez, first magic lasers, then the royal Canterlot voice and now teleporting, you are quiet the handful. Though, you do remind me of someone.” Sunset looked thoughtful.

The baby giggle before teleporting from Sunset’s arms onto Pinkie’s face, causing the pink pony to shriek and pulled the baby off, sending her flying. Shining tried to catch her but she disappeared before he could. “Where’d she go?!”

They listened as they heard her giggling everywhere. Cadance finally pinpointed where she was. “This way!”

“Oh my god,” Sunset said, clicked her fingers in realization, as they followed Cadance. “She’s like a pony version of Jack-Jack.”

“Who’s Jack-Jack?” Rarity asked, as she run next to the human.

“Oh, um,” Sunset forgot that ponies don’t have animated movies yet. “He’s basically a fictional superhero.”

“Oh, so a bit like Spike’s power ponies’ comics,” Rarity wondered.

“In a way, yeah,” Sunset smiled sheepishly.

“I found her!” Shining shouted as they arrived at the library, where Shining was holding the baby.

Once they were in the library and started looking for a spell to fix the Crystal Heart, it didn’t take long for the baby to escape again. While Twilight, Cadance and Sunset looked for the spell, Shining, Rarity and Pinkie tried to catch the baby, who was giggling non-stop as she shot lasers everywhere.

“Young filly… come back here!” Shining exclaimed, trying to catch up to her.

“Come to your Auntie Pinkie Pie!” Pinkie bounced after her.

“Bridle Buck’s Boat Chants, Hayhoof’s Intonements, Mystic Maps and Mazes…” Twilight read out as she flipped through the books. She looked over at Sunset, who was also flipping through books. “Anything, Sunset?” She asked.

“Nothing so far,” Sunset replied, not looking up from the book she was reading.

Twilight looked up to where Cadance was sorting through the shelves. “Anything up there?”

“Not yet!” Cadance replied. “I’m not even sure how these are organized!” Suddenly the baby popped into existence near her. She tried to reach for her, but the foal sneezed out an magic blast before popping to the other side of the room, where Shining chased after her. “Shining Armor, I thought you were taking care of the baby!”

“I’m trying!” He exclaimed.

“Whoo!” The baby sounded.

Rarity jumped into of the baby with a net. “Gotcha!” She shouted, only for the baby to teleport to behind her. “Oh! Or not…”

It was as Pinkie was running after the baby, that Starlight and Spike walked in, having been in the storm outside. They ducked down as a blast of magic went over them.

“What is going on?!” Starlight exclaimed.

“You want the long or the short version?” Pinkie asked as she was dragged along by the baby.

“Short?”

“The baby’s an Alicorn and she accidentally destroyed the Crystal Heart, so Twilight, Sunset and Cadance are looking for a spell to put it back together and save the Crystal Empire from turning into a giant wasteland of ice and snow,” Pinkie explained in one breath.

“Oh.” Was all Starlight could say.

Cadance gasped as she pulled a big tome out of the shelf. “What about this? Trotter’s Tome of Reliquary?”

Twilight quickly flipped through the book before stopping on a page. “I think this is it!” She exclaimed, showing Cadance the page.

“‘Spell of Relic Reconstitution’! I can’t believe we found it!” Cadance smiled in relief.

“It’s a good thing, too! Without this, I don’t know what we’d do!” Twilight said.

Sunset’s eyes widened in realization. “Um, Twilight, I think you just…” She started to say, before they all turned to the baby in Pinkie’s hooves as she released another magic blast that bounce off everyone’s shields, and ended up going right through the book that Twilight was holding, creating a massive hole in it. “…jinxed it,” Sunset finished as everyone else gasped in shock.

“Oops,” Pinkie said, still holding the baby.

“That spell was the only thing we found in the whole library that was even close to what we needed!” Twilight said, aguishly.

“I’m so sorry, Twilight!” Starlight apologized.

“It’s not your fault, Starlight. None of us were expecting any of this,” Twilight said.

“Do you think you can remember the spell?” Cadance asked.

“I only read it through once!” Twilight countered.

“Well, if anypony can exactly remember something she read for the first time two minutes ago, it’s you, Twilight,” Rarity encouraged.

“I’ll try. But I’m not sure how long it’ll take,” Twilight said. They turned to one of the holes made by the baby to see the storm intensifying.

“Is quickly an option?” Pinkie asked.

“I’ll help if I can, but we should evacuate the city just in case!” Cadance suggested. She turned to Shining. “You need to lead everypony to the train station before the tracks freeze over!”

“We will. But between you, Sunset and Twilight, I’m sure you’ll remember the spell,” Shining said, giving the baby to Cadance before he and Rarity left to evacuate the city.

“I only hope this spell is the one we need,” Twilight floated a piece of parchment over and start writing down what she could remember.

“Is there anything I can do?” Starlight asked.

“I don’t think so. I’m just sorry about your lesson,” Twilight apologised.

“Oh, that doesn’t matter now,” Starlight waved her off. “Sunburst and I don’t have anything in common anyway. He’s a big important wizard! And I’m re-learning everything I ever thought I knew.”

“Sunburst? I don’t recognize the name, but if he’s an important wizard, you should bring him here. Maybe he’ll know what to do if the spell fails,” Cadance suggested.

“Of course!” Starlight exclaimed before running out of the room.

“You better go with her, Spike,” Twilight said to the dragon.

“While you two figure out the spell, why don’t I try and keep the baby entertained,” Sunset suggested.

“I think that’s a wonderful idea,” Cadance said, as she handed the baby over to Sunset. “Thank you, Sunset.”

“Not a problem,” Sunset smiled down at the filly in her arms. “C’mon, kiddo. You can have fun with Aunty Sunset while your Mom and Aunt Twilight help save the empire.” The simple giggled as Sunset walked out the door to find a room that was close but out of the way, while thinking of possible games to keep the baby entertained.

Chapter 6

A few hours later saw the two alicorns going over the spell while Sunset sat in the corner with the baby, a ball floating between the two. Sunset had discovered that the activity helped settled and entertained the baby, to the point that it kept the little one from throwing magic lasers.

Twilight finished writing what she could remember on a piece of parchment and looked over it. “Uh, I think that’s everything?”

Cadance looked over the spell herself. “It looks right to me, but… there’s only one way to find out!”

Sunset turned around with the baby in her arms and watched the two alicorns use their magic to put the shattered Heart back together. At first, it looked like it was working until, after a second, it fell into a million pieces again.

Twilight looked down in defeat. “The spell failed. I don’t know what else to do.”

Sunset opened her mouth, in hopes of cheering Twilight up. But before she could say anything, Celestia spoke up as she and the others walked into the room. “An old student of mine believes he does.”

Celestia moved aside to show a light orange stallion with two toned orange mane and tail with glasses. As he walked over, he stopped in shock at seeing Sunset and the baby. “What?” Was all he could get out.

“Um,” Sunset said sheepishly as she gave the baby back to her parents. “We’ll explain later. How about save Empire now and ask questions later?”

“Oh, of course,” Sunburst shook his head, pushed his glasses up his nose, walked over to the shattered Heart and looked at the pieces. “The baby did this?!”

Twilight show him the spell they had tried to use. “I tried putting it back together with-”

“The spell of Relic Reconstitution. No, that won’t do it.” Sunburst said as he pulled a book from his saddlebag to show Twilight. “The Crystal Heart’s been around for millennia. Restoring a relic like this is way beyond one spell. You need to combine it with something else. Something unique to the relic itself. Something that strengthens it and provides it with power…?”

“The Crystalling!” Twilight exclaimed in realization.

“Combining that spell with the light and love of everypony gathered for the ceremony, together with…” Sunburst passed another book to Starlight. “Somnambula’s Weather Abjuration to clear away the snow…” He then passed a scroll to Cadance and Shining. “And a little Fledgling’s Forbearance for the parents… heh. That should curb the little one’s power fluctuations,” He explained, as the baby tried to reach for his face.

Cadance smiled at him. “You must be Sunburst. Starlight said you were a powerful wizard.”

“Oh, I’m no wizard.” He countered, causing everyone to gasp in surprise.

Starlight tried to explain, “But he studied magic his whole life! You should see his house! And since nopony has any better ideas, what do we have to lose?!”

Shining placed the baby in Sunburst’s hooves. “I had planned on asking Twilight to be our crystaller, but since it seems like she’ll be busy…”

Sunburst got what he was implying. “I’d be honoured!”

“Well, what are we waiting for?!” Twilight exclaimed as she got into place.

“I could help keep the heart in place too,” Sunset got everypony’s attention. “If that’s ok?”

“Um,” Sunburst was unsure, still not knowing what this creature was.

“Of course, Sunset, we will need all the help we can get,” Twilight smiled up at her friend. Sunset nodded and closed her eyes to concentrate. A moment later, Sunburst watched in fascination, as she pony-upped and then walked over to stand next to Starlight, her hands already glowing a faint red.

Sunburst shook his head, remembering what he was meant to be doing, he’ll ask later. He walked out to the platform, as the 3 alicorns, unicorn and human shot blast of magic at the shattered Heart, keeping the pieces in place. He stood tall as he spoke to the crowd. “Citizens!” He called. “May I present the newest member of the Crystal Empire!”

The ponies gazed in awe as the baby alicorn was raised. The ponies then kneeled, causing the roads of the Empire to glow with magic. Sunburst absorbed the magic into the crystal he was holding before galloping back into the room, throwing the crystal into the Heart. The Heart started to glow as it sealed up the cracks, fixing it. It sent out a wave of magic, making everypony to become crystalized, except Sunset, who looked down to see the Heart had activated her geode, causing her to be dressed in the outfit she had got at Camp Everfree.

Starlight turned to Sunburst. “For a pony who isn’t great at magic, you did pretty well.”

“Indeed,” Celestia agreed. “I’m glad to see you’ve found a way to share your unique gift, Sunburst. You may be more of a wizard than you think.”

Twilight smiled as she and her family walked over, when she noticed Sunset’s outfit. “Wow, I didn’t think the Heart would give you a new outfit Sunset.”

“It didn’t,” Sunset shook her head before pointing at her geode. “I think the Heart activated my geode, which caused the transformation.”

“Geode?” Twilight tilted her head, looking at the gem. “Is that Equestrian magic I sense?”

“Oh, right,” Sunset scratched the back of her head. “I haven’t told you about what happened at Camp Everfree. I’ll tell you later, after we explain my presence to Sunburst over there.”

“Fair enough,” Twilight nodded.

“Yes,” Sunburst pushed his glasses up his nose. “I can’t wait to hear about you.”

Sunset simply smiled as she thought, I hope he doesn’t start asking me lot questions at once, like Sci-Twi did.

Author's Note

Hi everypony,
Sorry for the wait, here's another chapter.
Sorry it's short, hopefully next one should be a bit longer

Chapter 7

Finally, after greeting Twilight and Shining’s parents at the station, everyone was resting around a table, while they ate dinner. Twilight and Sunset had just finished explaining everything about Sunset Shimmer, the Portal Mirror, and the Human world.

“Amazing,” Sunburst said. “And you truly feel more human than pony now?”

“Yep,” Sunset nodded, before taking out her phone to check something.

“Is that one of those human machines you were trying to explain before, Twilight?” Starlight asked, looking at the weird rectangle thing.

“Yep, it’s called a cell phone,” Twilight answered, raised an eyebrow at Sunset. “But I didn’t think it would work here in Equestria. How is it still working, Sunset?”

“Oh. Well, Twilight,” Sunset smiled at the purple pony. “You can thank your human counterpart actually.”

“Really? How?” Twilight looked uncertain.

“Well, first she made sure I could charge my phone using a solar powered charger. Don’t ask me to explain solar power, it’ll take too long,” Sunset held up a hand to stop the question she knew was about to be asked.

“Ok,” Twilight nodded. “But can it still connect with your friends’ phones, like you guys showed me?”

“That is because of this,” Sunset pulled the journal out of her bag, to show a small black box attached to it. “There’s another one attached to my own journal back home. Basically, the one on my journal picks up on the local reception, transforms it into the right frequency, sends it down the connection to this journal, and then transforms back into the reception, which my phone picks up on.”

“Wow,” Sunburst said, pushing his glasses up his nose. “That’s an interesting contraption.”

“It sure is,” Twilight agreed, before remembering the other thing she wanted to ask Sunset. “Um, Sunset.”

“Yea, Twilight,” Sunset turned to the purple alicorn after putting the journal away.

“You said you were going to explain what happen at Camp Everfree and what it has to do with that,” Twilight pointed her hoof at the geode necklace around Sunset’s neck.

“I did, didn’t I?” Sunset rubbed the back of her head. “Well, it all started on the second day, when strange things started happening…” The ponies all listened, fascinated as she went on to explain what happened at camp. Celestia, Luna and Twilight all gained thoughtful looks when she got to the powers and geodes.

“Well, it would seem that the Elements of Harmony have somehow manifested in the human world,” Celestia said after Sunset finished explaining.

“I think you are right, sister,” Luna agreed with her.

“But how is that possible?” Sunset asked looking at the sisters. “There were seven geodes and there are only six Elements.”

“Princess Celestia, are you saying that there is another Element,” Twilight asked the sun princess.

“There are many mysteries surrounding the Elements of Harmony. It’s quite possible that is more elements out there, waiting for the right pony, or person in this case, to find them,” Celestia smiled at her two ex-students.

“But if I’m an Element,” Sunset wondered. “What am I the Element of?”

“Hmm,” Celestia silently went over everything Sunset had said. “You said that when you touch people when wearing the geode, you can feel their feelings and see their memories.”

“Yea, pretty much,” Sunset confirmed.

“It sounds like you have some form of Empathic Mind Reading. So, I think you are the Element of Empathy,” Celestia concluded.

“The Element of Empathy,” Twilight thought for a second. “That does sound like you, Sunset. Especially, after hearing what you did for my counterpart.”

“Huh,” Sunset said. “So, I’m now the Element of Empathy. Now what?”

“Whatever you choose, Sunset,” Celestia smiled at the girl. “It’s your Element.” Before anyone could say anything else, Sunset’s voice started singing from her phone. ‘Like a phoenix burning bright in the sky…’

“Oops, sorry, I forgot to put it on silent,” Sunset said, picking her phone, eyes widening after seeing the caller ID. “I need to answer this…”

“That’s ok, Sunset,” Twilight assured her.

Sunset nodded at her before answering the phone. “Hi, Mom.”

“Mom!” Some of the ponies exclaimed, while the rest just look at each other in surprise. Celestia was the most surprise by this development.

“Yes, Mom, I’m fine,” Sunset continued to talk to the person on the other side. “It just got a little bit colder than first thought. Yes, I’ve finished my homework. Don’t worry I will. Say ‘hi’ to Dad for me. Ok, love you too, bye.” Sunset finished her call with a smile and looked back at the ponies to see surprised looks being aimed at her. “What?”

Chapter 8

“What?” Sunset asked again.

“Well, Sunset,” Celestia started. “I hadn’t realised that you had gained a mother and father in the other world.”

“Yea,” Sunset nodded. “But not until after what happened at the Battle of the Bands.”

“Really,” Twilight asked raising an eyebrow. “How did that happen?”

“Well,” Sunset cleared her throat, getting ready to tell them the story. “It all started about a week after the battle of the bands…”

(Flashback)

Principal Celestia looked up from her paperwork when she heard a knock at the door. “Come in,” She called, feeling her sister, who had been photocopying more paperwork in the corner, stand next to her. She was surprised to see the Rainbooms all come into her office. It did not take long for her and Luna to notice that they were one short.

“Where is Miss Shimmer?” Luna asked the girls.

“That’s what we wanted to talk to you about,” Rarity started before looking at the others, not sure how to explain.

Applejack stepped forward. “Well, you see VP Luna. A little after the Battle of the Bands, we realised that we didn’t know where Sunset lives.”

“We’ve tried to ask her, but she always manages to change the subject,” Fluttershy timidly continued.

“Yea,” Rainbow nodded. “And we were wondering if we can borrow the new security cameras. Just to find out which way she goes after school, so we can follow her and try to figure out where she lives.”

“Hmm,” Celestia thought for a moment, looking over at her filing cabinet where a certain file sat, before turning back to the girls. “While normally I wouldn’t allow it, we will make an exception just this once.”

“To tell you the truth,” Luna said, knowing where Celestia was going with this. “We also want to know where Miss Shimmer lives. After hearing that she was from another world, we realised that some of her student information might be false. And the address we found, along with other things, was indeed false.”

Celestia gestured for the girls to follow her over to the new security room. They all gathered around one of the monitors, as Luna put in the passcode.

“Now,” Luna started. “I assume Miss Shimmer normally goes out the front at the end of school?”

“That’s right,” Pinkie confirmed.

After a minute of going through footage, they found a good bit. They watch as the screen showed Sunset Shimmer walking out of the school. They were surprised when, after looking around she hid behind a nearby bush. Luna fast forwarded the footage, it seemed that Sunset remained behind the bush for two whole hours.

After everyone had gone home, Sunset moved from the bush and walk back towards the school. Luna turned the footage to one of the other cameras. Sunset walked around to the back and the girls gasped in horror as Sunset jumped into the school dumpster and start sorting through it.

“Oh, sugarcube,” Applejack muttered sadly, as Sunset came out of the dumpster with a couple of half-eaten apples, a container of mystery meat and half a tub of day-old chocolate pudding. She then walked over to a slightly opened window and climbed through it. Luna shifted the focus to the cameras inside the school.

Sunset walked through the school auditorium and into the sports storage room. She pulled out one of the sports mats and one of smaller punching bags. After setting everything aside, she started eating what she got from the dumpster. After finishing eating, she took her boots off, the punching bag at one end of the mat, and laid down, using the bag as a pillow. Luna turned the monitor off after Sunset had gone to sleep.

Everyone looked at each other, still in shock. Pinkie suddenly gasped as a realization came over her. “I just realise,” she said, getting the others attention. “You know when Sunset was a meanie pants, she would take people’s lunch money. Do you think, along with be mean, she also did it to feed herself?”

“Probably, darling,” Rarity answered.

“I think the big question here is, what are we going do?” Applejack asked. After thinking, they all put their heads together to plan.

(End Flashback)

“Oh, Sunset,” Twilight said sadly. “If I had known you were sleeping in the school, I would’ve invited you to stay in the castle. You would have only needed to go through the portal to get to school.”

“It’s ok, Twilight,” Sunset assured the purple pony. “It all worked out in the end.”

“Yes,” Luna nodded. “I would like to know how you gained parents out of this.”

“Well,” Sunset explained. “A few days after the girls found out about where I was living, I was called into Principal Celestia’s office…”

(Flashback)

Sunset knocked on the office door. After hearing “come in”, she walked into the office to find Principal Celestia at her desk, with Vice Principal Luna standing just behind her.

“You wished to see me,” Sunset said, slightly nervous.

“Please, take a seat, Sunset,” Celestia gestured to the seats in front of her. “You’re not in trouble. There’s just some things we wish to discuss with you.”

“What sort of things?” Sunset asked, afraid of where this was going.

“We been having a closer look at your school records,” Luna started explaining. “And we’ve notice that things like your address are false.”

“Well, um,” Sunset tried to think of an excuse, but Celestia held up her hand to stop her.

“We now know it’s because of the fact that you are from a different world,” Celestia said. “But after installing cameras in and around the school recently, we’ve seen you bunking down in the auditorium.”

“Oh,” Was all Sunset could say.

“Now,” Luna continued. “We’re not going to call on Child Services, mainly due to the lack of legit paperwork. However, we did contact an old friend of ours to produce that paperwork.”

“You mean…” Sunset looked at the sisters hopefully. “Actual paperwork. That says I’m an actual person.”

“Yes,” Luna nodded.

“Thank you so much,” Sunset said gratefully.

“That’s not all,” Celestia said. “The paperwork may take a while, so until then, I would like to offer a room at my house with my husband and me.”

“At your house?” Sunset asked. “As in permanently?”

“If that is what you want,” Celestia smiled at the teen.

“Are you sure you want me there?” Sunset was doubtful. “Especially with my past and everything.”

“Oh, Sunset,” Celestia assured. “Of course, I do. My husband Discord does too. When I suggested it, he immediately started cleaning out and decorating one of the spare rooms, just for you.”

After spending a few more minutes going over everything they needed to know about Sunset, what food she eats and the like, Sunset finally left the office with a big smile and a slight spring in her step.

(End Flashback)

“After settling into Celestia and Discord’s home,” Sunset said, taking a drink of water, after all that talking. “It just kinda went from there. When Christmas, kinda like Hearth’s Warming, came around, Mom’s friend came through with the paperwork. Among the it was an adoption form. After discussing it, I agreed to be adopted and signed the form.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful, Sunset,” Twilight smiled at her. “So, when you said mom and dad before, you meant the human counterparts of Celestia and Discord.”

“Yep,” Sunset nodded. “It took a while for the adoption to become official, but by the time the Friendship Games came around, I was officially Sunset Shimmer de Lancie.”

“De Lancie?” Rarity wondered about the weird name.

“Yea, that’s Dad’s family name,” Sunset explained. All the ponies commended her on getting a new family.

“I’m so very happy for you, Sunset,” Princess Celestia smiled at her. “I had hoped for you to find friends and family. Though it was done in a different world to this one, but you eventually did it.”

Sunset smiled back. “I sure did.” She then spent the night talking about some of the experiences she had shared with her new family so far.

Author's Note

One more chapter to go, that I hope to finish by New Years. Hope you enjoyed this one.
Discord's last name is the last name of his main VA in the show, John de Lancie
As for where Sunset was bunking down, I got the inspiration from this:

Chapter 9

Celestia was pacing back and forth, as her sister, husband and friend watched on. Sunset’s friends were also there, some giggling at the scene their principal was making.

“Tia,” Luna got her sister’s attention. “Stop worrying. You called her last night, and she was fine.”

“She’s right, Honey,” Discord said, walking up and hugging Celestia to stop her pacing. “Besides, you know she’s a tough kid and she has that little magic gem of hers. It’s all ok.”

Before Celestia could respond, the portal under the Wondercolt statue started to shimmer. Everyone gathered near it, as Sunset came through. She was immediately brought into a massive group hug.

“Hey, everyone,” Sunset smiled. “How is everyone going?”

“We’re doin’ fine, sugarcube,” Applejack answered. “How was it?”

“It was cold,” Sunset replied. “But that was to be expected, it was further up north.” The group turned when the portal started to shimmer again. “Oh, I forgot. I hope you all don’t mind that I invited a few people over for a bit.”

“Not at all, darling,” Rarity replied.

Out of the portal came Princess Twilight, two people who looked like more regal versions of their principals and of course Spike the dragon-turned-dog.

“Twilight! Spike!” The Rainbooms all moved to hug the two. Except for human Twilight, it was still awkward hugging one’s identical counterpart.

“Hi, everypony…sorry, everyone,” Princess Twilight greeted them, then she noticed the other princesses looking at their counterparts, who were next to what looked like a human version of Discord and… “Chrysalis!”

“Hi, Sunset told me about my counterpart,” Chrysalis put her hand up to assure the princesses. “I can tell you, now, I’m not like her.”

“Yea, Twilight, she’s cool,” Sunset placed a hand on the princess’ shoulder. “Didn’t I mention the name of mom’s friend?”

“No, you didn’t,” Twilight started to relax.

“Oh, well, yea,” Sunset rubbed the back of her head in embarrassment. “Chrysalis is the one who help me be adopted by mom and dad. Oh, by the way, Twi,” She turned to the human Twilight, giving her the box she had taken off the other journal. “The receptor work like a charm.”

“Oh, good,” Twilight smiled, pushing her glasses up her nose. “Maybe this is the beginning of better communication between the two worlds.”

“Yea, but for now, let’s leave it at the journals,” Princess Twilight suggested. “I don’t know if Equestria is ready for some of the technology of this world just yet.”

As Sunset and the girls continued to talk to Princess Twilight, Princess Celestia looked at her counterpart. “I wish to thank you for caring for Sunset, despite her past.”

“I only wished I had taken her in sooner,” Celestia said, looking over at her daughter as she laughed with her friends. “Maybe I could have helped her.”

“It is not good to think on the what ifs,” Princess Luna said.

“I’ve been trying to tell her that for a while now,” Luna smiled teasingly at her sister, who rolled her eyes back.

“If it’s not too much,” Princess Celestia became nervous. “I would like to know more about Sunset’s life here in this world. I know she’s already told us some things, but I think it would be better to see it in pony.”

“Here we say, ‘in person’,” Celestia corrected her. “And of course. How would you like to spend, say, a day or so here, I can clean out the guest bedroom?”

“I can only stay for an hour or so; I can’t just drop everything…” Princess Celestia started to explain.

“Sister,” Princess Luna interrupted her. “You have been needing a break for a while now. If you would like to stay for a few days, I could take care of everything while you are away.”

“Well, I have been needing a vacation,” Princess Celestia thought for a moment. “Very well, sister, I shall let you take care of Equestria for the next few days. Though I will come back over in the morning and afternoon, so I can raise and lower the sun.”

“I keep forgetting the other world works on magic,” Luna said after hearing that.

“Oh, do you not have someone to raise the sun and moon?” Princess Luna asked her counterpart.

“No and it would take too long to explain it all right now,” Celestia answered instead. “Let’s just say, there are a lot of physics and science involved. Anyway, we should probably get going, it’s almost lunchtime and I’m sure you would like to get settled in, your Highness.”

“Oh, no need for formalities,” Princess Celestia said amusingly. “While I’m here, just call me Celestia, and yes, lunch would be wonderful.”

“Ok then,” Celestia said.

“Well, just call me Tia, so there’s no confusion. Are you staying for a bit Princess Luna?” Princess Celestia asked her sister.

“No, I should go back to Equestria, to let everypony know Celestia is on vacation for a few days,” Princess Luna said moving over to the statue, gaining Princess Twilight’s attention.

“Oh, are we going already,” she asked. The other Princess’ quickly informed her about that plan.

“Ok, well, I think I also might stay for a few days,” Princess Twilight said. “Spike’s been telling me I should take a break.”

“Yea,” Spike nodded, smirking up at Twilight. “Sometimes, it’s really difficult to get her to stop and relax for a bit.”

Twilight glared at him, “I’m not that bad.” She turned to Sunset. “You don’t mind if we stay with you?”

“No,” Sunset smiled at her. “I’m sure mom was going to ask you anyway; you can sleep in my room.”

“Yes,” Celestia walked up to them. “I was going suggest you sleep with Sunset, while Celestia slept in the guest room. Actually, I was going to invite all you girls as well.” She said to the Rainbooms

“Yay! Sleepover at Sunset’s house!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed in excitement, causing everyone to laugh.

After saying goodbye to Princess Luna and getting parental permission, everyone headed to Celestia’s house. They spent the weekend showing Princess Twilight and Princess Celestia around the town.

Princess Celestia watched Sunset interacting with her friends and family and was glad to see Sunset finally happy after all these years. But she was also slightly sad, because she knew that if anything happened to the portal, Sunset would probably choose this world over Equestria. So, she would treasure the time she had with her ex-student, so if the connection between the worlds were ever severed, she would at least have good memories of Sunset Shimmer, the secret daughter of her heart.

By the end of the weekend, the bond between forgiven student and teacher were strengthen. Princess Celestia gladly said goodbye to her once faithful student, knowing she was in very good hands. Princess Celestia and Sunset Shimmer parted ways, with promises to visit when they could, as good friends.

Author's Note

And that's a wrap. Hope you have all enjoy this story. :pinkiehappy:

Chapter 4

Princess Cadance stood upon the stage as she spoke to the crowd in front of her. “Dearest citizens,” she said. “I am sure you are all just as thrilled and ready for this Crystalling as myself and Shining Armor.” The crowd cheer in response.

Behind the stage and curtains Shining Armor was panicking. “I'm not ready!” he exclaimed.

“Take it easy!” Rainbow tried to assure him. “Just pick whoever looks the most like honor guard material.” She presented Shining with two helmets.

“Right... right.” Shining took a deep breath and turned to the line-up of guards. He ended up placing the helmets, backwards, on two random guards, who slowly back away. He turned back to the girls. “I'm sorry. Fatherhood is way more stressful than I ever thought.”

“I can only imagine.” Fluttershy said.

Rarity walked up beside her to present a box. “Now, I know choosing the crystal of purity is a very important decision.” She explained as she opened the box to reveal 5 crystals. “So, I have gone through the trouble of arranging them in order from incredibly pure to outrageously pure.”

“Um, Rarity, don't they all sort of look the same?” Fluttershy asked, looking at the crystals.

“Oh, well, to the untrained eye, perhaps.” Rarity replied. “What do you think, Shining Armor?” She asked as floated the box over him.

“I don't know!” Shining shouted.

“I hope Twilight, Pinkie and Sunset are having better luck with the baby!” Rarity whispered to Fluttershy.

Meanwhile, Pinkie was being dragged around by the baby as she flew around shooting beams of magic about. “Well... at least she's having... fun!” She commented.

“Pinkie, hold her still!” Twilight shouted as she was producing shield after shield to keep the magic from doing too much damage to the nursery.

“I'm tryiiiiiiing!” Pinkie shouted back.

Suddenly there was a sharp whistle that startled the baby to a stop. All three ponies looked over to where Sunset had sat down cross legged on the ground. She was holding the snail plushie she had bought for the baby.

“Hey, sweetie,” she said, kindly to the baby. “Look what I got you.”

The baby laughed as she flew over to sit in Sunset’s lap and started to play with the plushie. As she played, Sunset started to hum a calming tune. Pinkie and Twilight looked on as the hum became a song.

“When you wish upon a star

Makes no difference who you are

Anything your heart desires

Will come to you

If your heart is in your dreams

No request is too extreme

When you wish upon a star

As dreamers do.”

As she sung, her hair lengthened into a ponytail and her human ears formed into pony ears. The baby softly giggled when Sunset softly tapped her finger on her little nose, her eyes starting to droop

“Fate is kind

She brings to those who love

The sweet fulfillment of

Their secret longing

Like a bolt out of the blue

Fate steps in and sees you through

When you wish upon a star

Your dreams come true.”

The song did the trick as the baby slowly dozed off into dreamland.

“Wow, Sunset,” Twilight commented, quietly, so she didn’t wake the baby. “That was so sweet and amazing. How did you know what to do?”

“Well, I did say I help my Pinkie with babysitting, including helping entertain the kids in the children’s ward at Canterlot City General Hospital,” Sunset said, rocking the baby. “We discovered that while Pinkie is good at keeping the kids happy and entertained, I’m better suited to calming the kids down and helping them into bed.”

“That makes sense,” Pinkie grinned. “And it looks like you are really good at it.”

“Thanks,” Sunset smiled back. “I figured that Cadance and Shining would prefer the baby well rested for the Crystalling.”

“Good idea,” Twilight commented. “While you do that, I’ll get to fixing the damage to the walls.” The other two nodded in agreement.

A few hours later saw Rarity helping Shining Armor straighten himself out. He turned around when he saw Cadance, Celestia and Luna coming into the room. He trotted over to them, saying, “Okay. I chose the honor guard, picked the purity crystal, and I know exactly who I want to be our crystaller. So, all we need is…” He tried to think of the last thing they needed.

Cadance raised an eyebrow, “The baby?” Shining simply looked sheepish.

“We're here!” They heard Twilight say as she, Pinkie and Sunset walked into the room. The baby was awake and giggling in Sunset’s arms, as she walked over to Cadance.

Cadance lifted and floated the baby out of Sunset’s arms, but the baby really didn’t like that. She kept trying to reach for her new friend Sunset, only to realised she couldn’t. She started to whimper, loud enough to gain everyone’s attention. Suddenly, she screeched loudly, so loudly that everyone could feel the shockwaves. Hearing a cracking sound, they turned around in time to watch in horror as the Crystal Heart shattered into a million pieces.

Wow, that kid has a set of pipes, Sunset thought, both terrified and impressed. Not even a month old and she can already use the Royal Canterlot Voice with devastating consequences.

“I'm guessin' that's gonna make it harder to do the Crystalling.” Applejack said as she walked closer to the now shattered crystal.

“It's worse than that. Without the Heart, the Crystal Empire's about to be buried under a mountain of ice and snow!” Twilight said, as she pulled back the curtains to show a massive snowstorm closing in.

“Greeeaaat,” Sunset commented to herself. “I’m now regretting not packing my snow gear.”

Author's Note

Hi everypony,
Hope you like the new chapter
The song Sunset sung is "When You Wish Upon A Star" from Disney's Pinocchio (For those of you haven't already figured that out:raritywink:)