Equestria Girls - The Tale of Two Sunsets

Sunset strode out of Sugarcube Corner, the scent of her freshly brewed coffee trailed behind her as she walked down the city's streets, ready to meet with the rest of the girls at Sweet Apple Acres. She had two lingering thoughts clouding her mind, one of which involved Pinkie Pie, the usual ray of cheerfulness in their group, who had been notably absent from both school and their group chat. Whatever was seemingly occupying Pinkie for an usually long period, Sunset figured that if even the rest of her friends had no idea what she was up to, it was likely something else personal going on, or Pinkie was planning a big surprise for them all during graduation.

Aside from Pinkie's unusual absence, Sunset was also admittedly curious at why Applejack had believed that the way Sugar Belle talked... somehow reminded her of herself. Was there something more significant between the two that would've influenced Applejack to make this comparison, or was it simply out of the blue? Sunset knew that baking seemed completely left field for her, as it wasn't really ever one of her core interests. She had recalled recently baking a soufflé with Pinkie, and helping her drag it to Rarity through a brutal snowball fight. However, aside from this, it didn't really make much sense regarding what else Sunset and Sugar Belle had in common. Sunset also didn't notice any similarities when she had talked with her, urging her even further to question Applejack, once she herself reached Sweet Apple Acres.

As both of these thoughts lingered throughout Sunset's mind, she suddenly realized that there was still something else yet to be resolved, that being what was going on with Princess Twilight back in Equestria. Sunset took a moment to take the journal out of her bag, and realized that up until now, she hadn't gotten a single magical notification, which would've signaled Twilight both receiving and responding to her previous messages. As Sunset turned to the respective page she had last written on, she noticed that what followed was completely blank, and unlike cell phone texts, it wasn't immediately clear whether or not Twilight had received her journal entry's message.

The thoughts of concern slowly crept into Sunset's mind, as she didn't know what to make of this. Possibilities included Twilight being far too busy with her royal duties as a princess, Twilight fighting some unknown threat back in Equestria, or the princess simply being hurt at Sunset seemingly ghosting her for nearly a whole year. Sunset truly hoped that out of all these possible cases, it wasn't the third scenario, but felt as though Twilight would know better. After all, dealing with real life was simply something unavoidable that everybody had to go through, and for that matter, would keep Twilight much more occupied, assuming her responsibilities had increased since then.

"Well, no updates from Twilight, I guess I'll just have to wait." Sunset said to herself as she stared at the rest of the journal's blank page. "Until then, might as well head on over to Applejack's place, and help the rest of the girls out with our graduation song. But I still can't help but wonder... what's keeping Twilight so occupied back in Equestria? She usually doesn't take this long to respond to my messages..."

As Sunset tucked the journal back into her bag, a sudden voice came out of nowhere, and she wasn't sure at first what to make of it.

"Well, Sunset..." Twilight said from behind Sunset. "I suppose you could ask her that, yourself."

Sunset's eyes widened upon hearing Twilight's voice, but she wasn't entirely sure if it was the Human Twilight, or if she was simply hearing what she wanted to hear. But as Sunset turned around, she was in for a completely unexpected surprise, upon seeing not just one, but two visitors that she hadn't seen for quite some time. In fact, these two were technically just like Sunset, in the sense that they were actually ponies from Equestria, much like herself, but in human bodies. Princess Twilight and Starlight Glimmer had crossed back into the Human World once more, and were looking around for Sunset Shimmer, specifically.

"Twilight, Starlight, it's so good to see you both!" Sunset greeted, as she ran up to give the two girls a big hug. "It almost feels like a family reunion here!"

"Indeed it does, Sunset." Starlight said with a warm smile. "From what I can understand, it's been a very long time since either of us have seen you here in the Human World, hasn't it?"

"Too long, really." Sunset giggled, as she took the journal back out of her bag. "So Twilight, is this visit in response to the journal entry that I wrote today? Because I noticed that for some reason, you didn't reply to my messages like you usually would. Is something troubling you?"

"Well, I suppose I definitely owe you an explanation for that." Twilight began elaborating. "See, to say that I've been busy lately, would certainly be an understatement. In fact, everyone else and I had been planning nonstop this past week, for a big and important, upcoming event."

"Definitely pretty coincidental that it's taking place around the same time as graduation for you at CHS." Starlight added. "But thankfully, since you mentioned that it'll take place in about a week from now, it looks like you'll have an opportunity to attend both events."

"Oh?" Sunset said with curiosity. "Is this what you two came by to inform me of? Are you inviting me to this other big event?"

"That's right, Sunset." Twilight nodded. "This isn't simply any ordinary big event, in fact, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me."

"Or is it actually twice-in-a-lifetime?" Starlight turned to Twilight. "Considering how you've already had your first one, ever since you got your wings?"

"Wait, are you meaning to tell me..." Sunset began to deduce what this all meant, based on the various clues she was already given. "You're being promoted as a princess, Twilight? And you're getting a whole new coronation to commemorate this event?"

"Correct, and more specifically, I'm going to be the princess of all of Equestria!" Twilight replied. "We're here to personally invite you, and let you know that you're more than welcome to attend my coronation. After this big event, I'll be taking on the very role that Princess Celestia and Luna have held for so long, as they've already announced their retirement."

"Princess Celestia... retiring?" Sunset tried her best to parse what she was just told. "I never thought I'd even live to see the day that would happen. I mean, my former teacher who ruled Equestria for over 1,000 years, stepping down and passing the torch?"

"It's quite the monumental occasion, Sunset." Starlight helped her take in the rather sudden news. "With Twilight taking the throne, it's safe to say that there'll soon be a new era for all of us. Besides, doing your job for over 1,000 years certainly sounds like retirement is well overdue, wouldn't you say?"

Sunset felt a whirlwind of emotions upon hearing the news, a mix of shock, excitement, and happiness for her princess friend. She herself had come so far from the days of envying Twilight's success as Princess Celestia's new pupil, and now she was standing before her, the soon-to-be princess of all of Equestria. Sunset looked at her two friends, their faces alight with joy and anticipation. She took a deep breath, feeling the warmth of the sun on her skin, and the smell of fresh flowers coming from a nearby store.

"Twilight, this is absolutely incredible, I'm so proud of you!" Sunset said, optimistically. "I can't believe it's actually happening, what will this mean for everyone, for Equestria, for... us?"

"Well Sunset, it means a lot of changes, but I promise you, everything will be fine." Twilight assured. "I'll still be the same pony you've known all these years, just with a few more responsibilities."

"Same with me, since, let's just say that the School of Friendship will be keeping me busy for quite some time." Starlight added. "And since you mentioned possibly taking an extended stay in Equestria, you'll always be welcome to visit us anytime you'd like. Certainly a lot easier when we don't have to worry about that portal only opening every 30 moons."

"I can't wait to see what you both have planned for the future, I'm sure Equestria will be in good hands with you." Sunset smiled. "But speaking of my journal entry, Twilight? I'm a little confused as to why you came by to see me yourself, instead of writing me back like you usually do?"

"Well, to tell you the truth..." Twilight began with a slightly sheepish grin. "I wanted to tell you in person, since an old friend had done the same for me, back in Canterlot. Plus, with all the commotion of the upcoming coronation, I figured a surprise visit would be a nice break from the chaos of planning. Also, I wanted to make sure you knew how much I've missed you and the other girls, it's been far too long since we've all been together."

"That's true." Sunset nodded. "Though I'm pretty sure the last time you saw them, was when we had to bring them all through Equestria, after getting stranded on a desert island during our spring break cruise."

"Oh right, I kinda forgot that they were from the human world, but in pony bodies." Twilight recalled. "I was instead thinking that the last time I had directly met them was when I was late to reply to your messages, since I was pretty preoccupied with a certain time-travel loop."

Starlight suddenly looked down with guilt and shame, upon being reminded of what she had done back then, which Twilight and Sunset both took notice of.

"It's alright, Starlight." Twilight patted her on the shoulder. "That was all in the past, and it's what we've learned from those experiences that made us who we are today. Besides, if it wasn't for you, we'd probably all still be stuck in those cocoons in the changeling hive, right about now."

"Heh, yeah, you're right about that." Starlight looked up at her with a bit of a chuckle. "I guess I've had my fair share of mess-ups, but I'm trying to make up for them."

"I could say the same about myself." Sunset sighed. "Especially with what happened between me and Princess Celestia all those years ago. But hey, I'm certainly happy to know that I've fully reconciled with Celestia since then. Remember when I was even preparing for the possibility of her wanting me to go away, so she'd never have to see me again?"

"I do, Sunset." Twilight nodded solemnly, her eyes reflecting the warmth of the sun. "And I'm just as proud of you, as I am with Starlight. You've come such a long way from the girl who first stepped into Equestria with so much anger and resentment. Now look at you, one of the most confident and determined students at Canterlot High, and an integral part of the Rainbooms."

"I've often heard about your stories and adventures from Twilight, ever since my first stay here in the Human World." Starlight acknowledged. "With how well I've always connected with you, as far as having a troubled past, and how well we've clicked with one another, I've kinda almost seen you like a big sister, Sunset."

"Aw, Starlight, that means the world to me." Sunset's eyes glistened with genuine warmth. "I've always felt like Twilight's been the glue that keeps us all together, even though ironically, I think this is the first time we're all together in the same place."

"Speaking of which, we're not just here for a casual visit." Twilight reminded. "There's something rather urgent we need to discuss with you."

"Alright, what's going on?" Sunset questioned. "Is everything okay back in Equestria?"

"Well to be totally honest with you, it's kind of been a major ride." Starlight answered. "You wouldn't believe what we've all went through, just a couple of months ago. The three pony kinds became separated and nearly turned against each other, and as a result, the growing distrust and animosity brought back the windigos. How exactly did this happen? Well, it's all thanks to the begrudging teamwork of some filly, centaur, and changeling queen."

"Indeed, it was quite the ordeal, and it almost felt like the final exam for my entire journey." Twilight nodded. "It's times like these that really put our friendship to the test, but I'm just so grateful for everyone, and how they've managed to overcome even the most challenging of obstacles. Heck, I'm just grateful that I had more allies on my side to battle Lord Tirek, compared to how I had no choice but to fight him all by myself the first time."

"Lord Tirek?" Sunset raised an eyebrow. "I've never actually met him, but I know I've heard Princess Celestia mention his name, back when I was her pupil. Well either way, sounds like you've lived out the videogame, Tirek's Revenge, but in a VR simulation in real life. That definitely sounds like quite the adventure, since VR does lose its charm after a while.

Twilight and Starlight looked toward one another in confusion, as neither of them were particularly familiar with the Human World's technology, let alone understanding what 'VR' was."

"Well, I think I remember you and the other girls playing these... TV game videos back during that slumber party we were all at." Twilight recalled. "No real idea what this VR is, but from what you've described of it, it sounds freaky."

"VR is like being inside the game, but way more immersive." Sunset explained. "You wear a headset and use these controllers, and it feels like you're actually there. But yeah, I can see how it could be a bit overwhelming, especially for anyone who's only recently gotten used to smartphones."

"I'm still trying to grasp how exactly everything works here in the Human World." Starlight looked down at her jeans and boots. "I mean, I definitely wasn't wearing these clothes before I stepped through the portal, and yet here I am, dressed up like this is some sort of fashion show. I know that we ponies sometimes wear clothes back in Equestria, but for the most part, we normally don't wear clothes at all. Would it really make a difference if I took my clothes off right now? This strapped thing under my shirt feels pretty tight and uncomfortable."

"Well Starlight, it's not really about fashion here, it's more about... societal norms and comfort, I guess?" Sunset chuckled nervously, trying to avoid a misunderstanding. "But, let's save that conversation for another time. Right now, I should get going to Sweet Apple Acres, the others are probably already there, and I don't want to keep them waiting."

"Very well then, Sunset." Twilight nodded. "I'm glad that we've had a chance to talk, and that we've caught up a bit with each other's lives. But most importantly, we'd all love to know whether or not you're willing to join us at the coronation, especially since you mentioned that you're willing to possibly come back to Equestria for about a week?"

"Of course, Twilight, I wouldn't miss it for the world." Sunset accepted the invite. "It's just that I still have a few more of my own responsibilities here with my friends, but I'm sure I'll figure something out. After all, graduation's in a week, so it'll be perfect timing, and I'll just have to make sure everyone knows I'll be leaving for that. When exactly is the coronation?"

"Time might pass differently between our two worlds, but speaking purely on Equestrian time, it'll actually be tomorrow." Twilight explained. "Yeah, I'm sorry if you feel like this is poor timing, Sunset. I know that sounds incredibly last-minute of us, but we figured that coming by to tell you ourselves would at least let you know how much we'd be willing to have you there."

"Not to mention, we ran out of invitation materials, shortly after sending the invitations all over Equestria." Starlight added. "Yeah, let's just say that we should be expecting a pretty hefty guest list, tomorrow."

"But not to worry, I'll be sure to let the royal guards know about you, and that you're a really close friend of mine." Twilight assured. "I haven't worked too closely with the security at Canterlot, but I can assure you that the protocols have been implemented to ensure there'll be no intruders or unwanted guests at the coronation. Just tell them your name, Sunset, and I promise you that they'll let you in, no questions asked."

"Thanks Twilight, I really appreciate it." Sunset grinned. "But before I head back to Equestria, I've got to sort out a few more things here, like telling the girls about my sudden trip, I can't just leave without telling them. Plus, I've gotta help them come up with a song that we'll be expected to perform during graduation. I'll meet you both back in Equestria when I get the chance, but just so you know, I gladly accept your invitation, and look forward to seeing you at the coronation."

"Understood, Sunset." Twilight nodded. "I've got a feeling you and the girls will come up with something amazing for your graduation's performance. After all, you're the master of music in our group, and the main reason we were able to defeat the Dazzlings. Please go on and take care of your responsibilities here, and we'll see you soon."

"And remember, just like you've told me once." Starlight began reiterating. "When we think of focusing on the positive, whatever happens is gonna happen, and we've just gotta live in the moment, right?"

"Right." Sunset giggled, as she felt reminded of that exchange, shortly before Starlight took an extended stay in the Human World back then. "But... just between us, I'd heavily recommend that you not take your clothes off, especially out here in the open. I remember when I thought it wasn't a big deal either, but Pinkie Pie discouraged the idea, telling me that if I did that, some black box in the upper left corner would have to change its rating. I never figured out what she meant by that, but I just kept my clothes on, just to be safe."

"Heh, okay, I'll keep that in mind." Starlight snickered. "I'll just stick to the clothes that I have on for now, though I've never been a big fan of these boots. Maybe if I came to the Human World more often, I could experiment with my own tastes in fashion, but... well, you get the idea. Either way, we're both ecstatic to hear that we'll get to see you at the coronation tomorrow. Good luck with whatever else you've got to take care of, and say 'hi' to Juniper Montage for me, if you somehow bump into her."

"Don't worry, I'll definitely give her your regards." Sunset gave Twilight and Starlight one last hug before getting ready to head on over to Sweet Apple Acres. "Now, I should get going, I've got to break the news to the girls, and we've got to get to work on that graduation song. See you both soon, and thanks for the heads up, this'll be something to remember!"

Both Twilight and Starlight nodded in approval, as they waved goodbye to Sunset, before turning around and getting ready to head back to Equestria through the portal at CHS. As they did so, Sunset realized that although the potential idea of metaphorically moving away would be rather sudden and heartbreaking news for the rest of the girls to hear, she now had a reason to experiment and see everything for herself. In fact, it was entirely possible for Sunset to instead develop homesickness for the Human World, especially after being here for so long. What if the excitement and endeavors in using magic again weren't all it's cracked up to be?

This essentially meant that Sunset thankfully now had a reason to head back to Equestria for a week, not only to fully determine her decision on which world she would live in, but also buy her some time to think everything through before graduation. After Twilight's coronation, Sunset knew she had the potential to explore her old home for quite a while, make new friends, and even spend more time with Princess Celestia. She realized that she had technically already done so, as far as making amends with Celestia, and even becoming friends with Starlight Glimmer. But now that she had so much more leisure time on her hands to go all over Equestria, Sunset felt determined to make the most out of her free week off.

There weren't any urgent circumstances this time around, which would make her time in Equestria much more limited and restricted. No memory stones that erased her friends' good memories of her, and no friends getting stranded on a sinking cruise ship in the middle of the ocean. Sunset was going to do everything in her power to make every moment of this trip count, especially when it came to the idea of possibly reuniting with her family. It was still unclear who exactly Sunset's parents were, as she barely had the vaguest idea on what her father looked like, let alone his name.

"I have to admit, the thought of possibly seeing either of my parents..." Sunset dwelled on these thoughts, as she slowly made her way over to Sweet Apple Acres. "It'll certainly be complicated, that's for sure. I've built a life here, and I'm not entirely sure how they'd react to this new life, after all these years. I've changed so much, and I'm not just talking about the whole 'human' thing. No longer the rebellious and arrogant student I was, way back then."

Sunset felt a peculiar mix of excitement and curiosity as she approached Sweet Apple Acres. She had a lot to tell her friends, so much that had transpired within a short amount of time. The scent of apple blossoms grew stronger as she walked closer to the farm, reminding her of the comforting and familiar embrace of her second home. Upon reaching the farm, she noticed Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Twilight, and Fluttershy all sitting on the front porch, but not Applejack. The four girls also had concerned looks on their faces, making Sunset deduce that AJ was most likely dealing with something else troublesome at home, prompting her to rush over and do anything she could to help.