Equestria Girls - The Tale of Two Sunsets

After swirling around the portal's blur, Sunset could almost immediately feel her transformation unfold, before eventually stepping out of the magical mirror. She stumbled slightly as she tried to regain her balance, and stepped down onto the Castle of Friendship's floors, once more. It had been so long since she felt this familiar sensation of her newfound equine form, which was mostly due to the constant adaptation of being a human. She took a moment to adjust, as the weight of her body had now distributed differently, along with no longer having hands to potentially break her fall. After getting used to her hooves, Sunset looked down upon herself, as she suddenly realized that she had to fit the expected norm of equines, and got down on all fours.

"I don't know if I'll ever get used to walking like this, again." Sunset said to herself. "Though I'm sure Starlight and Twilight are always able to relate with how awkward this can truly get..."

Just as Twilight had popped into Sunset's mind, she could suddenly hear the aforementioned princess from a distance. This most likely meant that she had caught up with Twilight, just in the nick of time, as she looked around the room. Everything around the castle had been stored into cardboard packages, and the bookshelves had been completely emptied. This was likely a sign of Twilight packing up all her belongings, and moving everything to Canterlot, where she would soon rule over Equestria. Sunset processed everything for a few moments, before hearing Twilight again, who was accompanied by her friends.

Upon overhearing what was happening from a distance, the princess herself had sounded quite upset, while her friends joined in on a bunch of crying. As Sunset drew closer to the nearby gathering through a wall, she could discern snippets of their conversation, which revealed that Twilight had finally opened up with them about something troubling. A warm comfort washed over Sunset, as she processed the thought of their shared understanding and empathy, much like the Rainbooms had done for her. However, the conversation had abruptly concluded, as Sunset could suddenly hear Spike's voice, which was about to highlight the urgency of time.

"That's nice." Spike began to elaborate, as he took out a clock, which showed that it was already 5:00 PM. "But you should be more worried about missing the train to Canterlot!"

Seeing the time, Twilight and her friends gasped, prompting them all to immediately storm out of the castle. Realizing that everyone was already departing, Sunset had also picked up the pace, but was admittedly unsure of where the castle's exit was located. While Sunset was desperately trying her best to keep up with Twilight, the princess and her friends were all rushing out the front door, before suddenly being stopped by Starlight Glimmer, who approached them all with a magenta gift box. Although Spike knew what Starlight was trying to do, the others were more focused on not being late to the coronation, as time had already become way too tight.

"Sorry I'm so late." Starlight apologized on her behalf. "I actually thought I'd missed you-"

"THERE'S NO TIME!!!" Spike interrupted.

All of a sudden, everyone immediately bolted past Starlight, causing her to drop the gift, before spinning and falling onto the ground. Twilight and her friends were all in such a hurry to the train station, that none of them had managed to hear Sunset, even though she was calling out to them. Before Starlight could even process why everyone was in such a rush, she got back up, and used her magic to levitate the present that she had spent days working on.

"So, I'll just give this to her... AFTER the coronation, I guess." Starlight sighed to herself, before hearing some hoofsteps from behind.

Sunset had finally rushed out of the castle's main entrance, desperately trying to get Twilight's attention. Unfortunately, despite her efforts in making it back to Equestria in a timely manner, she was still slightly too late, as Twilight and her friends were already on their way to Canterlot.

"T-Twilight...!" Sunset tried to catch her breath from the sudden sprint. "Ugh, so close, yet so far away..."

"Sunset!" Starlight turned around with a hopeful smile. "Glad to see you've made it, but it looks like Twilight and the others are running a little late. I must say, I was admittedly wondering if I was going to see you soon, but I've been busy with some... secret project, let's just say."

"It's good to be back to Equestria, that's for sure." Sunset nodded. "Wait, what do you mean they're running a little late, is the coronation already about to begin? Back in my world, I literally just got out of bed in the early morning, so I guess the time zone difference was much greater than I thought. In that case, I hope we're not going to be late."

"According to a clock I saw earlier, it should only be about 5:00." Starlight replied. "Which means that we still have plenty of time to get to the coronation, since taking the train to Canterlot should only be a half hour, and it's going to begin at 7:00."

"Alright, good to know." Sunset brainstormed how she was planning to reach Canterlot. "I was admittedly hoping to have a quick reunion with Twilight, but I suppose now, it'll have to wait until after the coronation. I always figured that the two worlds had some sort of a time zone difference, but I never realized it was this drastic. If I ever plan on taking any more return trips in the future, I'll have to keep that in mind."

"I wouldn't worry too much about being late, Twilight's always been rather punctual about keeping a tidy schedule." Starlight assured. "For now though, let's just focus on getting there ourselves. I still need to take care of a few things over at my village, and then it's off to Canterlot. I was looking forward to giving Twilight this special gift, and seeing her reaction, but I guess I caught her at a bad time."

"Well, it's nice to hear that despite how busy this day must be for everyone, you took the trouble to get Twilight a special present to commemorate this event." Sunset smiled. "Hmm, come to think of it, I just realized that although I've brought some basic necessities in my saddlebag, I've neglected to get Twilight a present, myself. Ugh, I've had so many other things on my mind lately, that I've managed to let this slip my mind!"

"Oh, I'm sure she'll understand, especially since we were rather late at inviting you." Starlight reminded. "Plus, I'm sure she'll be thrilled to see you there, along with Celestia. It's certainly been quite a while since you two have seen each other, hasn't it?"

"I'm definitely looking forward to that reunion, but I can't help but feel like I should've brought something for Twilight." Sunset insisted. "It'd be a great way for me to express my gratitude to her, for not only helping me turn my life around, but even keeping me updated on certain magical artifacts, which somehow ended up in the other world. Besides, I know this coronation will be a really big deal for Twilight, so I can't just show up, empty-hoofed. If I have a few more hours to find some kind of gift to bring, then I'd rather do that, instead. If I had a little extra time to spare, I was thinking of checking out a little more of Equestria, anyways."

"If you're sure, then I guess I'll head on over to my village to take care of a few things." Starlight replied. "Depending on how busy I'll be, I might be able to bring you with me to Canterlot. In the meantime, have fun doing a little sightseeing, I certainly remember the thrill myself, when you took me through that... mall."

"All I know is, if I'm going to get Twilight a gift, I'll have to make it count." Sunset brainstormed. "I know there's plenty of things I could get her, though I might have better luck deciding on something, once I do a little browsing. If I'm not mistaken, that's Ponyville over there, isn't it?"

"Yep, and if I'm not mistaken, there's many shops that you could check out." Starlight pointed. "I couldn't really give you a specific recommendation on something Twilight would want, but I'm sure that bringing her some flowers would be nice."

"Flowers, you say?" Sunset pondered. "Well, it wouldn't have been the first thing to pop into my mind, but I know she appreciates the natural beauty of Equestria. Alright then, if I can find some decent flowers in town, I'll be sure to bring them for the coronation. I've got some pocket change in my saddlebag, so it shouldn't be too much of an issue to afford them."

"Just remember, the shops in Ponyville can be quite particular with their prices." Starlight warned. "Business has been going slow for some of them, which means that if you're even one bit short, they won't cut you any slack. I know from experience, let's just say. Be sure to not spend all your bits on the first thing that catches your eye. If I'm unable to accompany you later, then you'll need enough bits to afford a train ticket to reach Canterlot."

"I'll keep that in mind, thanks for the tip." Sunset understood. "I'm typically used to shopping around for those good deals, but I'll definitely need to make sure I have enough to take the train. How much are tickets, by the way?"

"A train ticket to Canterlot will typically cost you 7 bits." Starlight explained. "It's a standard fare for this route, but at the same time, I can't guarantee there won't be any price hikes, due to the coronation's festivities. Since I've been doing a lot of advising at the School of Friendship, I'd highly recommend you keep a few extra bits, just in case. Other than that, good luck on your quest for the perfect gift!"

"Sounds like a plan!" Sunset began rummaging through her own saddlebag, before counting her pocket change. "Hmm, I seem to have 18 bits on me, so I should definitely have plenty to spare. Come to think of it, I'm pretty sure these are the same bits that've been sitting in my saddlebag, ever since I was Princess Celestia's pupil. I never took them out, or really found a use for them in the Human World."

"Oh yeah, I definitely remember that, especially when I tried to pay for my ice cream." Starlight giggled. "What is it with the humans, preferring to take green rectangular papers? It's almost as if that world's currency can literally grow on trees."

"I know, right?" Sunset shared a laugh. "If anything, these bits are a reminder of the life I've had here, and how much I've grown since then. Though... I'm still unsure if I'll have to get used to that older life, especially after graduation at CHS."

"You mean... you might consider staying here in Equestria with the rest of us?" Starlight pieced together what Sunset likely meant. "I'd be all for it, us getting to spend even more time together, but... how come, exactly? Did something go wrong for you, back in the Human World?"

"Well, it's complicated, let's just say." Sunset sighed with a hint of sadness in her voice. "I know I've made some really great human friends, but I also have some unfinished business to take care of here. Sometimes, I feel like I've been living two different lives, and I'm not ready to let go of either of them, at least until the right time comes. For now, let's not worry about that, I've got a coronation to get to, and a gift to find. I'm not sure what to expect within Ponyville's shops, but I'll be sure to find something truly special for Twilight."

"I know you'll find something amazing, but remember, it's the thought that counts." Starlight nodded. "Twilight will be thrilled no matter what you get her, I'm sure of it. Have fun doing some window shopping, but right now, I need to head back to my village. Party Favor and Double Diamond were planning something special for the coronation, so I have to check and see if they'll need my help."

"Sounds good, I think I'm going to hold onto your suggestion of bringing Twilight some flowers, and then we'll meet up later." Sunset set her eyes on a nearby flower shop, before waving goodbye to Starlight. "Have a safe trip to Canterlot, I'll see you soon!"

As Starlight trotted off into the distance, Sunset couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia, upon taking a closer look at Ponyville. She had technically already explored this town before, but it was under entirely different circumstances, due to the urgency of rescuing everyone from that sinking cruise ship. In that particular scenario, she had practically seen herself as an outsider, looking in on the lives of these magical ponies, who were simply minding their everyday activities and jobs. Looking around, Sunset began to visualize the life she had left behind, back when she made that big decision to step through the mirror, and inadvertently live on as a human.

The more Sunset thoroughly examined her surroundings, the more she felt her homesickness return. Equestria had always been the place she had truly belonged, but she still ended up choosing the human life, which had finally come to a head, as far as finding purpose and meaning. Sunset believed that no matter what, she would much rather be continuing her studies of magic once more, as opposed to pouring coffee for a bunch of miserable people in an office. Her only barrier consisted of her bonds with the rest of the Rainbooms, which was still a hefty price to pay, especially after all they had been through together. Despite these continuous concerns, Sunset had faith in herself to eventually come up with a proper solution, as she had faced more vexing situations in the past.

She continued gazing upon the various buildings, admiring their charming and unique architecture, which was unlike any building she had come across in the Human World. The warmth of the setting sun casted a gentle glow on Ponyville, enhancing the town's natural beauty. However, the sun's positioning had only served as a friendly reminder of the main reason she was here. Sunset had to find the perfect gift for Twilight, and the clock was ticking, with less than two hours until the coronation would officially begin. She took a deep breath, filling her lungs with the crisp Equestrian air, before trotting towards the area within, where she saw various vibrant shops from a distance.

"Depending on how many bits I have left, I might even consider bringing some flowers for Princess Celestia, too." Sunset said to herself, whilst looking back at her saddlebag. "Hmm, come to think of it, I have to wonder what my old mentor would be doing, once she and Luna officially abdicate the throne. I'm sure I'll have plenty of time to ask her this, and I definitely can't wait to have another heartfelt reunion with her, it's just been too long."

As the setting sun shined over the mountainous region of Canterlot, the bustling city had long been active with the excitement of the upcoming coronation. Within the grand walls of the castle, Princess Celestia paced the corridor with a gentle grace, as her eyes scanned over the guest list that Spike had meticulously compiled. It was a pleasant surprise to notice that Twilight had even gone through the trouble of inviting Sunset Shimmer, her former pupil who had betrayed and abandoned her, but had recently made amends and given closure on this dark chapter. It would certainly feel like a spit in the face to just exclude Sunset from such a big event, especially given her history and connections to Canterlot, despite living in another world.

Once Celestia finally finished looking over the entire list, she had only become reminded of how much of an impact Twilight had over all these guests, especially with the presence of various creatures, who had also become acquainted with ponies. This was a feat that Twilight and her friends were able to accomplish, bringing unity and peace to Equestria, seemingly for many years to come. Celestia had ruled over Equestria with her wisdom for over 1,000 years, and it was now time to pass the torch, once and for all. As she turned a corner down the hallways, she approached a familiar room, filled with many cardboard boxes that were scheduled to be moved over to Silver Shoals. Sunburst had momentarily ceased his inspection of the boxes, before addressing the princess, who suddenly accompanied him.

"Y-Your highness, I didn't expect to see you back so soon." Sunburst turned around, before bowing to the princess. "I assure you, once I've finished properly labeling these packages, they'll be immediately shipped over to Silver Shoals. Starlight and I have already arranged for the villagers of Our Town to help you transport them."

"There's no need for such formality, Sunburst." Celestia said, humbly. "After all, in just a few hours from now, I'm no longer going to be the princess of all of Equestria. That particular position will now be something of an age's past, remembered through Twilight's ruling from this day forward. In the meantime, you and Starlight have done an excellent job, helping to arrange the coronation, and I simply wanted to thank you for diligently handling the moving process."

"It's been quite the journey, hasn't it?" Sunburst reflected. "I still remember the very first time I became a student at the School For Gifted Unicorns, and ended up flunking out, despite my prowess in magical knowledge. If only this horn had matched the strength of my brain, I could've gone on to do even more amazing things, but I suppose settling for the School of Friendship's Vice Principal was good enough. I'll be honest, when I was excelling in my written studies, I almost envisioned what it'd be like to become your pupil. It's a shame that we'll never know how that path would've worked out for me, since my inability to perform complex spells was what sealed this path for me."

Celestia couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness at Sunburst's words, fully knowing the weight that they carried. The princess didn't have to envision a scenario where one of her students ended up excelling in every merit of their studies, as she could never forget her own experiences in mentoring such a prodigy. Everyone had their own unique talents, and while she was initially proud of Sunburst's achievements at her school, she knew there were times when Sunburst felt like he had missed out on something greater, and that his studies weren't enough to truly satisfy this ambition. However, she chose to keep her thoughts about her former pupil to herself for the time being, not wanting to burden him with her own regrets.

"Every path we take will eventually lead us to where we're meant to be." Celestia gave a few more words of wisdom. "You've touched so many lives with your guidance, which is truly something to be proud of, regardless of how your studies ended up. Since then, the School of Friendship has become a beacon of unity and growth, and you've been able to play a vital role in its success. Although my sister and I will primarily watch over Twilight from afar, we'll also be doing the same for you and Starlight."

"I'm glad to hear that despite the many challenges that lie ahead in the future, we can still come to you for guidance, especially for things we're unsure of." Sunburst continued checking through the boxes. "For example, where exactly should we put this old and dusty-looking yellow lizard toy? Perhaps I should throw it away?"

"No, no, please." Celestia immediately shook her head. "That yellow lizard was once the treasured possession of somepony close to me, who had a knack for finding friendship in the most unlikely places. Despite her... rocky beginnings, she grew to become quite an extraordinary pony, and this toy holds more than just dust and memories, it's a symbol of her journey in becoming the mare she is now. I'd prefer if you kept it in a safe place, though I would hope to see her soon at this coronation, and return this cherished toy to her."

"Well then, I'll make sure it's packed safely, and that it'll find its way back to her." Sunburst nodded, before setting the toy inside the 'Memories' box. "I really wish my parents could see just how far I've come. Well, at the very least, my dad, since I admittedly haven't heard from him, the day I left to study in Canterlot."

"Your... father?" Celestia recalled, feeling a sudden sting within her heart. "Yes, I remember you mentioning to me about your father, and how hesitant he was to let you follow your dreams..."

"Err, is something wrong?" Sunburst asked, noticing this shift in mood.

"Ah, no, it's nothing." Celestia quickly brushed off. "Just a fleeting memory, nothing of importance anymore. Now then, let's focus on checking the remaining boxes, and then we must ensure everything is ready for the coronation. I want this to be a celebration that Equestria won't soon forget."

"Hmm, well other than the yellow lizard toy, there was still one last thing I was unsure of, after inspecting all the other boxes." Sunburst went behind the cardboard packages, before bringing out a familiar yet dangerous object. "Where exactly should we put this?"

"Is that... Grogar's bell?" Celestia's eyes widened in surprise. "The same bell that fell into the hooves of Lord Tirek, Queen Chrysalis, and Cozy Glow? What's that doing here, of all places?"

"Well, when we were digging around for items that you'd want to take with you, Starlight and I found this in one of the attics of the castle." Sunburst replied. "Apparently, it was just forgotten and left behind, shortly after we defeated those nefarious fiends. I figured it's better to be safe than sorry, so I brought it here. Perhaps if it went to your new home in Silver Shoals, we won't ever have to worry about it falling into the wrong hooves?"

"I'm afraid that may not be a good idea, given how it's one of Equestria's more... infamous artifacts." Celestia expressed her concern. "While I appreciate the thought of keeping it with me, I believe it's best if we store the Bewitching Bell in a place where its power can be contained and studied safely. The Canterlot Museum has a secure exhibit for relics of its kind, and it'll be important that we keep such artifacts out of harm's way, now that Luna and I are retiring. We can't risk the chance of its influence corrupting anypony, especially during the coronation. I appreciate you bringing this to my attention, but I highly recommend that we immediately bring it over to the museum, and ensure its proper placement."

"Ah, yes, of course." Sunburst nodded. "I suppose that we should've thought of that ourselves, but we didn't want it to get lost again, especially after all the trouble we went through, just to get it back from those troublemakers."

"I understand your concern, Sunburst, but I assure you, the security measures in the museum are quite thorough." Celestia said, before she turned off the lights. "Now, let's not waste any more time, as the coronation is fast approaching, and we must ensure everything is in order. Let's bring the bell to its rightful place, and then we shall inspect the banquet that Mr. Ramsay has prepared for us."

As Celestia and Sunburst finally exited the room, deep in conversation about the upcoming coronation, a mysterious silhouette began to slither from the shadows of the half-unpacked boxes. The figure's eyes glowed a malevolent purple, and was patiently waiting for the perfect opportunity, this entire time. She had heard the whispers of a certain artifact's presence, and had hoped to claim it for herself, but was unfortunately too late. With a huff, she retreated back into the box, plotting how she could possibly sneak the artifact out of the museum, and into her own clutches.

"Blast it all, why does it always have to be so complicated?" The mysterious figure muttered to herself. "If only I was able to find that bell earlier, it would've made everything so much easier. But no, now I'll have to wait until they're all distracted by the festivities, or perhaps I'll need to cause a distraction of my own? It matters little, that powerful magic will soon be mine to harness, though I'll need to scout around Canterlot for a proper route to get around the guards. When the perfect opportunity presents itself, I'll be able to unleash my attack, and eventually show off to Equestria, a heretofore unseen, yet transcendent power...!"