Equestria Girls: Open Armsby Joshua CrapoChaptersChapter IChapter IIChapter IIIChapter IVChapter VChapter VIChapter VIIChapter VIIIChapter IXChapter XChapter XIChapter IHi. You may remember seeing me and my friends at Camp Everfree. Ever since I’ve gotten home, I’ve been really reflecting on things: the Fall Formal, the sirens, everything like that. Crazy how fast time flies, you know? Well, now that I look back, my first years I came here are quite the far cry compared to Camp Everfree. Seeing Twilight and Gloriosa go through the same exact thing I have really puts you in a different perspective. Good thing it’s the weekend. Hopefully I should have some time to hang out rather than trying to save the world. Well, since I’m home, I really got nothing better to do. I get out of bed and pull out the journal from the side-table. As I get my pen ready, I take a quick breath. Dear Twilight, I figured I’d try to contact you. I finally have the time to just sit and chat, well more write so to speak. How are things going in your world? I had fun at the Camp Everfree field trip, though it could do without having another she-demon roaming around; it’s a long story. Well, just thought I’d see if I could stop by for the weekend. After writing out the paragraph, I carry my journal with me to the kitchen while I get some breakfast, keeping the current page open. Looking in the corner of my eye while grabbing a drink, the journal starts to materialize text. Ah, Sunset Shimmer! I’m so glad you wrote! I was just winding down too! We have so much to catch up on! I can’t wait to see you again! You think a villain of the week is a long story? Get a load of what Aita and I have in store for you! Wait, who- okay pen time again. Aita? Who’s Aita? Is that a pony in your world? Are you dating someone? Aita… seriously, what kind of name is that? Doesn’t even sound like a pony name. After preparing breakfast, two large pancakes with syrup and orange juice, I take two trips to the living room with that and the journal to eat and watch a little TV. While eating, Twilight writes back. He’s seven. Take a wild guess. …okay, the fact I asked that made me really uncomfortable. Well, looks like breakfast is all done now. I cannot believe I asked that date question. I should’ve known he was a child. Whatever food is left gets sealed into foil on the plate and inserted into the fridge. I put the cup and silverware in the sink and wash my hands before I go back to the living room and write back. Sorry. Didn’t know. Why don’t I go over and see what he’s like. I’m really hoping to meet someone in Equestria as a changed person. Great. Sounds like a plan; meet you there, Sunset. See you in a little bit, then. As soon as I finish my message, my door knocks. “Coming!” I rush to the foyer and open the door, which reveals to be the other Twilight Sparkle: this world’s. “Hey, Twilight.” “Hey, Sunset. Any plans this weekend? We’re having a cookout this afternoon,” Twilight greets, waving her hand then imitating pinning down a burger with a spatula. I hesitate hearing my friends’ plans. “Oh... sorry, but I found out the other Twilight might’ve adopted a colt back in Equestria. I was hoping to meet him there.” “Understood. Too bad you’ll be missing out on the chips,“ Twilight replies in a sing-song tone, holding out her other hand to reveal two bags of party-size wavy chips. “Maybe I’ll talk to Twilight about it before I come back, okay? I’m sure you girls won’t mind if I end up a little late.” Twilight shortly waves her hand in front of her in response. “Oh no-no-not at all. You have somebody else to meet. I’ll just go check with everyone else.” She pauses a moment, still thinking of being without me unlike in Camp Everfree. “Are you sure about missing the cookout? This is our first casual gathering, and i’d love it if you were there.” “Twilight,” I say, resting my hand on her shoulder. “this isn’t Camp Everfree. We can do it any time we want. Just because I could miss this cookout doesn’t mean there won’t be next time. I hope I don’t miss it, but it’s not the end of the world if I do.” Twilight pauses before giving me a hug. “Thanks, Sunset. I know i shouldn’t be worrying about it, but I’m glad you could clear things up,” she says, letting go. “I guess I should head to the superstore before they start wondering where I am, huh?“ I nod. And with that, Twilight starts walking. So I close the door. “Don’t worry, Twilight. I’ll get there as soon as I can.” I insert the journal into the backpack put on pretty much at the same time. Roughly fifteen minutes later, I arrive in front of the school. Looking around me, the only thing different about the front yard is the lack of a statue from the events of the Friendship Games. Crazy how things like that change so quickly, huh? But this isn’t the right time I need to get hooked on the past. I have a new potential friend to meet, and his name is Aita. I close my eyes and sigh. “Here I come A- oof!” I walk into the right corner of the mirror and fall into a sitting position with my hands on the ground behind me. It takes a few seconds to get my bearings back. “Ooh, I’ve really got to look where I’m g-ah, hah, haaaaaaa!” After I get up and try going through the mirror again, I start spiraling my way to Equestria. It’s a good thing I’m just a normally developed person slash pony due to the flashing blue and pink ambience. After a few seconds, it all goes dark with a thud… and some falling plastic. Chapter II“Twilight! I’m home!” I call to Twilight Sparkle after arriving home from my first day of school. However, it doesn’t sound like Twilight is anywhere close to me in the castle, if at all. Searching thoroughly, she doesn’t seem to be anywhere. As I finally look to the throne room, I see her: the Princess of Friendship herself. She turns to face me. “Ah! Aita! I thought I heard you. How was your first day in School?” “I liked it,” I reply with a smile. Twilight nods. “That’s good.” She seems a little busy with… a book? Journal? What is it? “Hey Twilight, what’s that? I know it’s a book, but-“ “Oh this?” Twilight asks, floating the book into the air. “It’s a communication journal. How do I explain this? Has your old family ever had any long-distance friends?” Hm, I think I see where she’s going with this. “Probably. We’d use electronic mail for something like that, or if we were stuck at home.” “Well, Aita, this journal achieves the same goal, only with a friend an entire world away.” Suddenly, the two of us hear a thud. “What was that?” I ask. “I think I know, but maybe you should-” Before Twilight could finish, I teleport to where the thud happened. Suddenly, in front of the library table is a unicorn laying on her front and groaning. How’d she get here? Next to her is my DS, which I put back on top of the mirror. “Ooh, why’s it smell in here?” the unicorn faintly notes- waaaait a minute. Why does she look familiar? “Okay, seriously, the castle isn’t supposed to- huh?” I wave at her when I see she has spotted me. “Aw, a juvenile changeling! Are you Aita? I heard Twilight had someone staying with her.” I nod with a smile. “Well, yeah. Are you Sunset Shimmer?” “Wait; how did you know me?” “Long story,” I say. “What sounded like plastic dropping when I came in here?” I float the DS back into the air and opening it to show Sunset. “That would be this, an old device of mine with two screens. Hopefully, it should still work after a fall like that.” Sunset shakes her head to get her bearings while I press the power button. Sure enough, it works. “I never knew you liked gaming. Was that from your old family? Equestria isn’t exactly known for its technology.” Aita? Aita… Twilight calls, opening the door afterward. “There you are. I see you’ve met Sunset already.” I nod. Sunset Shimmer attempts to get up, only like a human would, before falling back down. I hold in a giggle as she gets up again, this time like a pony normally does. “Whoa. That feels a little weird after all this time. Hey, Twilight. How come Aita knew my name?” “Well, Sunset, he actually comes from a world that has documented Equestria and its past. It started a few years ago when I first came to Ponyville.” Sunset Shimmer winces. “Eugh… that doesn’t sit right.” “Well, good thing that’s off limits though,” I add. “No one’s ever going to pop into Equestria after what happened last Hearth’s Warming.” “So, Sunset, do you plan on staying long?” “Actually, Twilight, my friends are assembling a cookout.” “Oh. Well Aita,” Twilight asks, turning to me. “wanna go with Sunset Shimmer for a while?” I nod. “Why not? Sounds like it should be a lot of fun.” “A little warning though, Aita. It’s gonna feel funny going through the portal.” “I can imagine that after seeing you come here.” Sunset Shimmer nods, then goes through the mirror. “You know what to do, Aita. Good luck out there, okay?” “Okay,” I say. “Thanks.” I take a hop skip and a jump into the mirror and go through some flashy highway. “WhoawaaawAAA!” PING! As soon as the flashing stops, I’m met with a small sting on my back legs. Somehow they feel longer, and for that matter, all of them. Looking around, I seem to be wearing small shorts, socks, sneakers, and a relatively loose t-shirt. “Aita! You okay? I know you just went through the mirror, but you seem like you just got stung by a bee!” “I think I-” I start before I roll over and see roughed up human-shape legs. “Here, we’ll get you to a family restroom and clean you up.” When I see Sunset again, she’s become human too, mostly going off the hands she has on her now. I wonder: do I have those too? I do, and they’re curled up. That’s gonna feel weird getting used to. “So, we’re both human now, huh Sunset?” “Exactly,” she answers. In what looks like a nurse’s office, there is a bathroom both Sunset and I can enter. She grabs some wetted paper towels and wipes up my legs. After that, I wash my newly found hands and prepare to leave. Before I go, a lookalike of one of the ponies in Ponyville pads my legs out to make sure they’re clean. “Thanks for your help, Sunset,” the nurse says. “Not every day does somebody get scrapes like those.” “No sweat; it’s what I do. So, ready to head out Aita?” I nod. “Then we have a cookout to attend.” So, Sunset and I head out of the nurse’s office. When Sunset looks at her phone though, she’s shocked at what time it is. “It’s almost lunchtime! Come on, Aita! We have to hurry!” You guys need a ride? asks a voice from behind. Looking behind in the hall reveals that voice to come from Flash Sentry. “Well, Aita? You know who he is if you know me, right?” I nod. “Flash Sentry.” “Not every day a new student knows his way around the school at day one, but that sounds great. Saves us the energy. Come on Sunset, where are you headed?” “To the park. Twilight and the rest are having a cookout.” “Say no more, Sunset,” Flash Sentry replies. “I’ll be there before lunchtime.” And with that, Flash Sentry leads us to his sports car. You know, maybe I could use some lunch myself. Chapter IIIAfter making a quick pitstop home to grab a clipboard, paper and pen, I arrive at the park with a checklist for all the tools necessary for a great cookout. “Okay, the rest should be here with the supplies any minute. In the meantime: chips: check!” I set down the two large bags of chips and tick them off the checklist as Applejack comes with the lighter fluid, a roll of foil, and the matches in a reusable bag. “There you are, Twilight!” Applejack happily greets. “This spot good for the oil ‘n stuff?” “Uh huh. Lighter fluid, aluminum foil, matches: check, check and check.” “Alright! Cookout showtime!” Pinkie Pie shouts enthusiastically, holding a bag of charcoal. “Charcoal: check.” “So, we’ll be dining in the wide open, then?” Rarity asks, carrying tall packages of plates and napkins. I nod. “Plates and napkins: mega-check.” Next, Fluttershy joins in with crates of buns, beef, soda and condiments. “You think this will be enough?” I nod again. “Sure, Fluttershy. Put them right next to the plates. Food: check!” “Alright!” Rainbow Dash cheers. “We got everything! I made sure I brought forks, knives and spatulas.” “And lastly, silverware: check! We’re all set, everybody!” As everyone is cheering, Flash Sentry’s car pulls up a ways from us. “Anyone invite Flash?” I ask. “Actually, looks like it’s Sunset Shimmer. Maybe she just got a ride,” Applejack points out. As Sunset Shimmer gets out through the passenger side, she walks around the car to talk to Flash Sentry. Meanwhile, somebody else gets out the same side Sunset did. Sunset and Flash exchange bumps to the fists before the driver’s window rolls up. Sunset then waves goodbye as Flash presumably heads home. The sports car pulling out reveals what looks like a unique student. He is dark grey in tone and has some pretty casual summer clothing. Maybe this is the one Sunset mentioned back home. “Sunset Shimmer!” Hearing her name, she quickly approaches me with the child following suit. The two of us give each other a high five. “I suppose the talk with the other me went well?” “Mhm. Hey Twilight, this is Aita. He’s the one Twilight took in after Hearth’s Warming.” “Ah! Aita! That’s a great name!” I start. “It’s Japanese for-” Aita joins in with a smile. “‘It was open,' commonly referring to doors.” “So, if you’re the human counterpart to Princess Twilight, then the rest of you must be counterparts to her friends, right?” “Mighty tight deductive skills there, how’d you reach that conclusion so fast?” Applejack asks, obviously impressed. *** I take in a deep breath, preparing for my answer before Pinkie Pie interrupts. “You’re from an alternate world that isn’t Equestria, but isn’t your home anymore because of a horrible catastrophe, and you’re actually a kid changeling in that world AND Equestria that saw recordings of our lives back in a native-sounding homestate.” It’s just like the original movie three years ago! Only difference now is that Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Fluttershy are the ones stunned instead. I think maybe that’s because of the thought of being recorded without them knowing. “I know, girls. The feeling is mutual,” says Sunset. As grilling goes on, done by Applejack by the way, Twilight and I take a try at the drinks. They’re pretty much identical to the ones back in Wisconsin. It brings a thought to my mind that I never knew I had before. “Just a thought, but back home, my old family had someone in school. Sometimes he’d stay home a day later or earlier than usual, even though it wouldn’t be a holiday that day.” Twilight beams, getting the buns ready. “Oh. I know what you’re talking about, Aita. We usually have the day off when the superintendent heads a meeting at our school for the morning. Think of it this way: if you had to concentrate on a goal that was hard to accomplish, but imperative to happen…” “I would need more room, peace and quiet for me to achieve that goal,” I finish. “I think I know what’s going on with that now. Superintendent’s Conference Day. Thanks for helping me with that, Twilight.” “Alright! Who wants the first patty?” Applejack asks, putting a perfectly done beef patty on one of the buns. I look around, seeing everyone considering the option. Nobody seems to raise their hand. I’ve seen this situation last summer, where the first burger is done and nobody wants to make Chrysalis’ behavior at Shining Armor’s wedding look good. Now I get to participate and break the ice, so I raise my hand, willing to try out the burger without guilt. “Hm, usually somebody else would’ve raised their hand by now. Looks like that’s you, Aita. What’chall want on it?” Applejack gets the condiments ready and begins listening for me. “Oh. I’ll start simple with cheese and ketchup, sort of ease into lunch.” “Okay, soocherself. Ready, Rainbow?” Rainbow Dash scoots over to the left with Applejack, then puts a little ketchup and cheese on the burger and tops it off with another bun. “Here you go, Aita,” she says. Sunset grabs my attention before I start eating. “Aita, I think you have to see this.” “What’s going on?” I ask, prompting Sunset to show me writing appearing on her journal. Dear Sunset Shimmer, I just thought I’d let you know that I’ll be busy for a while; the map is calling. Whenever I leave, I’ll be sure to lock the door so that Aita’s essentials are safe and sound. “Aw, that’s too bad. And here was hoping to come back to Equestria with an actual- never mind; this is actually filling me up.” I interrupt myself upon realizing the burger is actually satisfying. It’s not even the usual way of love being included in the food; it actually is satisfying to eat alone. “Thank you very much for this, Applejack.” “Aw, shucks. Nothin’ to it, Aita. Next!” “Ooh! Ooh! Pick me! Pick me!” Pinkie excitedly shouts, jumping up and down. “Well, looks like I won’t be in any rush to bring you home, huh Aita?” I nod at Sunset. Chapter IVSo, after everyone has had a burger (or two), chips and a bottle of soda each, everyone feels full, especially me. I’m not used to having to eat for nutrition, but the burger tasted like how I remember nostalgia tasting like. “Ooh, that was the chips wasn’t it?” Twilight says, looking around. “I might have served too much,” replies Rainbow Dash. “Could we have brought a clip for one of the bags?” “Perhaps.” Rarity looks over to me. “Oh, look at poor Aita. It was a good thing Princess Twilight left home; he must not be used to eating like us. He can’t even join in what little conversation we do have.” Sunset rests her head over her arms. “Believe me; I’ve been there, Rare.” “I think I’ll call Granny Smith and tell her to get Big Mac and pick. us. up. Real satisfied with the cookin’, but I would be caught dead eatin’ another bite.” “You can count on me!” Pinkie replies, handing her phone to Applejack. It seems to be on speaker, set to call Granny Smith. Yes, hello! Pinkie Pie? “Hi Granny Smith!” we all answer. Oh! Y’all had that big cookout! Now Ah r’memeber! Wish Ah c’bring y’all some apples, but- “It’s okay; we filled up on our own.” Did ya now, Sunny? Heh, any y’all need a ride home? “Yes, Granny. Is Big Mac with you?” Applejack asks. Darn tootin’! Ah’ll make sher he brings the van for the seven of you! Big Mac, you got the van ready? Sunset briefly chuckles. “Make that eight. We had a last minute guest.” Eeyup, Big Mac answers to Granny Smith through the phone. Looks like yer goin’ all ov’r town! Yer sister and her friends stuffed themselves ‘til they couldn’t walk! Need gas? Mmmaybe. Twenty-five will do. Break a leg out there, Big Macky! So y’all need anythin’ else? “Pretty sure that’s all,” Twilight replies. “Whatever else there is, we’ll handle just fine.” Alright, if ya say so. See ya later Applejack! Bring any leftovers home! “Will do, Granny.” Pinkie’s phone hangs up, letting Applejack finally get up and past the feeling of fullness. She starts packing the leftover food and drink into the now empty cooler. “Twilight, y’all wanna do cleanup?” “Sure.” Twilight closes her eyes. While she does that, all the garbage starts floating in one of the empty chip bags: foil, napkins, knives, and paper plates. Totally forgot Twilight could float stuff. “Ev’rbody else take a rest while Big Mac’s on his way. Y’all look like you could use it.” I point to the sky, then flop my arm back. “Isn’t that an understatement.” *** When Big Mac arrives with the van, Applejack puts the leftovers in the back area and gets in the front while Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and Twilight go in the backseats; Rarity and Fluttershy get in the third row; and Sunset and I take the second. “So, did that cookout go well?” Big Mac asks. “Mhm!” Everybody nods and buckles up, including me. “Aita here was just simply delightful!” Rarity pats my head, which because of my new physique, feels more comfortable than it would’ve before. “The food was really good,” Sunset adds. “Fluttershy went all out on the soft-drink and condiment selections.” “Aw, thank you so much, Sunset Shimmer.” “Hey, did …anybody else get a text from CHS calling for a surprise SCD?” Pinkie shows her phone to everyone in the back three rows. Sunset checks her phone. “Hm. Superintendent Conference Day? …that can’t be right.” Twilight begins reading the text she, Sunset and Pinkie all apparently got. “As anybody knows who visited CHS this Saturday, a new student has arrived on campus. I would like to hold a special conference at Canterlot High School welcoming this new student on Monday. Yours truly, Superintendent Spitfire.” “Well, that’s confusing. I would’ve thought Spitfire served more as one of those people that yells at everyone because it was her job,” I reply. “So a drill instructor? She got fired from that job years ago; apparently caused a haze epidemic.” “Haze? What’s Rainbow Dash mean?” “In this context, Aita, it means to steer someone straight by humiliating them,” Twilight explains. “Someone leaked the news of Spitfire’s behavior during our Freshmen year.” “And guess who did it…” Sunset starts, before rubbing her right upper arm. “Hazing or not, I’m lucky I still attend CHS today after that leak.” I don’t really find it surprising Sunset got Spitfire fired. While I see where she’s getting at, I am not about to let her past cloud her own judgement. “Sunset,” I say, resting me hand her right shoulder. “You know as well as I do that all the bad stuff is in the past. I may never forget the moment I first met Princess Celestia, but that bad first impression doesn’t make her a bad person. Besides, I’ll be seeing Superintendent Spitfire; you won’t have to.” “Thanks, Aita. You said it best.” Sunset gives me a warm hug, but then looks around, making me do the same. Looks like we’re back at CHS. “CHS is our first stop, huh?” she asks Big Mac. “Eeyup.” “Well Aita, I’ll come through on Monday, okay? Best of luck to you at that meeting.” I nod at Sunset as we get out of the van. I think of saying something, but another comes up in my head: my schedule. “Wait a minute: I’m supposed to be at school in Ponyville during the meeting!” “You are? Maybe we should go over and explain that to Principal Celestia and have her let Superintendent Spitfire know! Girls, we’ll have to talk later, but please do not stay home on Monday. Meet me at the school, and we’ll talk with Spitfire directly,” Sunset orders. Pinkie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Twilight all nod. “We’ll have to catch up some more later, sound good, Big Mac?” Big Mac nods. “Eeyup.” “Let’s go, Aita.” And with that, while Big Mac’s van leaves, Sunset Shimmer and I head back to Canterlot High. Chapter VSunset Shimmer and… Aita Bagley-Handy, please report to the principal’s office. In the front halls, I perk up to the sound of the intercom calling me and Sunset’s names. In fact, I haven’t heard my full name in a LONG time. Something isn’t right, though. Why Principal Celestia? She hasn’t met me. “That’s us… is something wrong?” “Yeah. No one over here ever said my full name. Why would Principal Celestia know? She hasn’t even seen my face.” “Maybe a lookalike attends some far-off school; I don’t know. For now though, we go in and tell her. Alright?” Sunset asks. I nod. Sunset and I head into the office and take the two student chairs in the room. “Good afternoon. I believe you both had some news for me?” “Yes, Principal Celestia,” Sunset Shimmer starts. “Me and my friends got a text announcing a surprise day off on Monday.” “Surprise day off… who was it from?” “Superintendent Spitfire. She even signed it at the end.” “Ah, now that’s an interesting story, you two. Have a seat and let’s talk about it.” Celestia invites us to pull our chairs up. “You see, during your sophomore year, Sunset, Canterlot High was undergoing some quick changes, one of which was the hiring of Superintendent Spitfire. After the old superintendent was let go for her… outdated outlook, Spitfire came in and fixed the policies made by her predecessor. Considering her resume stated she was previously an instructor at WCHQ, she seemed very experienced in scheduling. While I admit that she can be a bit sacred about what she plans, I’m sure I can reason with her about this sudden change in planning. Here’s hoping she reconsiders.” Sunset Shimmer smiles to me, then back to Principal Celestia. “Thanks for telling us as much as you could. I hope so too, considering Aita has school at the same time back in Equestria.” Principal Celestia looks puzzled a first, but ultimately nods. “All the more reason to have that discussion with Superintendent Spitfire. Will there be anything else?” “That should be it. Sunset?” “Pretty sure.” So, Principal Celestia leads the two of us out of the office. “Remember you two, I will be right here if you need me; my door is always open.” I expect to hear the door slam, but come up pleasantly surprised when it doesn’t. “You okay, Aita?” Sunset asks me. “Don’t worry about me. I was just expecting to hear that door shut behind us.” “It’s nothing really. I’m sure she’s just working on following her own word. While we’re here and waiting to hear from the principal though, why don’t we head out to the field, maybe get some fresh air.” *** I’ve always had a soft spot for the soccer field. I always felt at home looking at it, and now I’m here. Sunset and I have a seat on the side of the field. “So, you never went into detail; what happened at Hearth’s Warming?” Gee Sunset, way to break the ice. “Should I though? Pinkie pretty much said all you need to know.” “But that doesn’t explain what disaster you might’ve been through. Aita, I won’t tell anybody. I Pinkie promise.” I sigh, then lightly chuckle. “You had me at the Pinkie promise. If you say so.” I begin to lay onto the grass. “Well, my mom and I lived in a world similar to this, just without the diverse tones you guys have. Last Hearth’s Warming, Mom and her best friend were trying to visit each other until it turned out I’d be getting a sibling. But because of how poorly the process was handled compared to with me, I ended up without a changeling family entirely.” “So, you severed all ties with your homeworld?” I nod. “Pretty much. Only ones I really miss are Mom, Sophie and Tim. Even with school, Twilight and the gang keeping me company back in Equestria, I don’t know if I’ll ever be the same changeling I was before.” “Hm. You seem like you’ve been through a lot for just seven years. Took me over forty just to even come close.” I sit back up. “Forty? I know Equestria’s ponies age much slower than humans and changelings, but forty years? How come you’re in CHS then?” “That’s… not what I was getting at. Changeling or Pony, experiences like that can be damaging to someone your age, especially when you lose that many friends. You were pretty lucky since we have a lot of the same friends. I understand why you didn’t want to tell me about Hearth’s Warming, but sharing your experiences is what helps a friend get to know you. Like I said before, I won’t tell anybody else. This is just between you and me.” After her little speech, Sunset wraps her arm around me, so I do the same. She seems to hold it for a lot longer than my other friends ever did. For about a minute, Sunset is frozen in that position until her hand pulls itself out. “Wow; you and Carina did a lot together in Equestria.” “Wait, what? How’d you know my mom’s name?” “Are you forgetting, Aita?” “Oh, right. Your arm collects mental information… I… I understand now. I understand why you guys didn’t like the sound of being recorded without your knowledge… I’m really sorry about watching you and your friends on TV.” “You’re fine, Aita. It’s not like you can take that knowledge back.” Suddenly, I hear Sunset’s phone vibrating. She pulls it out. “It’s Principal Celestia!” Sunset exclaims, answering the call. “Hello? …yeah, he still is… You did? …Sure thing.” Then, the phone hangs up. “Hey Sunset, what’s going on?” I ask. “She’s asking us to report back. We’ll have to cut our time out here short.” I nod. “Okay. Lead the way.” With that, Sunset and I head back inside to Principal Celestia’s office. I really wonder: what did Spitfire say? I’m seriously hoping that Monday will be a regular school day for Sunset and her friends again. Chapter VIAs Sunset and I enter the office, Principal Celestia is accompanied by Vice Principal Luna, sitting at Celestia’s desk. “Good afternoon, Sunset Shimmer, Aita. Have a seat, you two.” We obey and sit down in front of the two. “Sister told me of the text about the extra day off Superintendent Spitfire was giving all the students, Sunset. May I see that text just to verify?” “Of course, Vice Principal Luna,” Sunset answers, giving her phone to Luna, which is still on that text message. “Hm, it’s the real deal. We looked our message history, and that text never appeared. She did admit she sent the text, but only to the students. It’s possible all faculty are oblivious to this message. I’ve only seen this happen once, two years ago.” Luna must be talking about the former superintendent. “With the old superintendent?” I ask. Luna nods. “Ever since she was let go, rumors came up about Polomare’s arrest due to the continued behavior carried over from her years before Spitfire replaced her as superintendent.” Suri Polomare? Arrested? Makes sense if we know it was true. “Sunset, if Aita could follow me and my sister to see Superintendent Spitfire, we could explain his current situation over in Equestria.” “I would really like that, especially if I’m coming with you.” Celestia shakes her head. “I’m sorry Sunset, but this is something only faculty can resolve. I will be sure to come by and update you on as much as we can though.” Alright, so that means I’m going with Celestia and Luna. *** Celestia, Luna and I enter a part of the school I’ve never seen before. Of course I haven’t seen it because I’m only hearing about this world’s Spitfire just now. We seem to take two rights before we keep going straight. Anyway, we arrive at the superintendent office. Celestia knocks on the door lightly and sparsely. Come on in, Celestia. The three of us come in with Celestia opening the door. When we sit down, I’m the person in the back of the other two. “Ah. Luna… and Aita. What brings you three here?” “You were going to head a last minute meeting on Monday, is that correct?” Celestia asks. “Yeah; Nurse Redheart typed something on her digital record late this morning. I’ve never seen a name like it: Aita. I concluded he must be a new student in CHS, so I was gonna give the others the day off so I can get to know him.” She got my name from some mundane record? I know new names are sought after to get new students, but why not just talk to the principal and get me into CHS? This just doesn’t sit right. “I’m afraid we might have to correct that conclusion,” Luna replies. “He’s from Equestria, and he attends a school elsewhere.” “In fact, his school will be in session during the meeting.” “Eh, makes sense there, Principal. But are you sure he can’t afford to miss a day? We are just starting the final marking period.” “I’m not sure that’s where Equestria currently is in the school year,” Celestia ponders. “Oh that? Last I knew I just got done with my first day.” Celestia and Luna look back at me wide eyes. “Apparently time rates are different here than in Equestria,” Spitfire answers. “But do you think you’re accounting for that fact, kid?” I nod, a little nervous now. “Well, before I get home, we’re gonna need a final verdict from you.” “...or from Princess Twilight.” Spitfire turns her attention to Luna. “Princess Twilight?” “That’s who’s presumably caring for Aita now, is it not?” “Yes Vice Principal Luna,” I say. “Only downside is that she’s currently solving a friendship problem at the moment. I don’t know when she’ll get back home… Maybe I can though.” Celestia faces back to me again, kneeling down. “Why’s that, Aita?” “See, Sunset has a journal that acts like an e-mail history between her and Princess Twilight. I could just ask her to request Twilight’s permission to miss my next day.” Spitfire shifts to a relaxing position. “Sunset Shimmer, huh? I heard she’s finally coming around. Want me to call her?” I nod. “Sunset Shimmer, please report to the Superintendent’s office.” A minute later, Sunset comes in. “I came as quick as I could! I brought the journal in case we needed it.” “Good. Would you mind writing to Princess Twilight about the meeting? She’s really the one that should be making these decisions, not me.” “Sure thing Aita. Dear Princess Twilight, I know you’re busy, but we needed your say on something important. Superintendent Spitfire has scheduled a surprise conference with Aita that happened to conflict with when he’s supposed to go to school back in Ponyville. Should he be in Ponyville or CHS at that moment?” I take a closer look at the journal, which happens to start spawning text. Ah, Sunset Shimmer! I completely forgot about writing to you the moment I got back home! Aita has a school dilemma that you needed me for? Sure. I don’t entirely understand why Spitfire is a superintendent in your world, but she seems interested in welcoming Aita professionally. Once the message finishes, Sunset Shimmer starts writing back. Maybe it’s best you don’t. She’s had a… hazy history. So, CHS or Ponyville? …Hazy? Ponyville; definitely. Sunset looks at me after seeing Twilight’s response. “Well Aita, looks like you’re gonna be home after this.” “Oh, Twilight said I should stay in Ponyville?” “Yeah, and I have a feeling it was because of what I wrote. You know what I’m talking about, right Aita?” “Yep.” “Well, I’m glad we could resolve this issue so quickly. Luna and I will be back in our offices if any of you need us.” Celestia and Luna leave Spitfire’s office. “Well Sunset? You happy to get your classes back?” Spitfire asks. Why is she still smiling? “Not after that performance; schedule the meeting anyway, but with me and my friends instead. Even after the three years since you-know-what, you haven’t changed a bit.” Sunset sure seems angry. Thank the world I’m in that I can’t actually tell. At least now, Sunset and I can leave. It’s no good seeing Sunset in a bad mood. Chapter VIIAuthor's Note CHU (content heads up): Minor terminology uncommon for the TV-Y rating. Otherwise, enjoy the chapter. Chapter VII Aita and I arrive at the mirror to bring him home. I don’t know what happened back at Spitfire’s office. I’m usually calm about trying to deal with my opposition, even if some of the time I wasn’t very nice. I’ve been more irritable since I turned my attitude around. Could it be a natural response to seeing someone in danger even if only mental? Maybe not. Even if I did leak Spitfire’s behavior as a drill instructor with ulterior motives, this is exactly how I remember her acting and back then, and I wasn’t actually angered by that back then. What’s different here that managed to set me off? “Hey, Aita, before you go, I wanted to ask you something. I noticed that Spitfire’s behavior was exactly the same as it was long before I turned myself around, but back during the leak, I never exploded like that. What’s different now?” Aita gasps. “I think I know. It happens whenever a friend of yours is in danger. In the drill instructor leak, we all know it was the motive to drive others apart that fueled that leak. But now, ever since the Battle of the Bands, you’ve put your friends before yourself. Instead of a simple detour of plans like in the Fall Formal, now it’s the thought of losing your friends because of someone else… sometimes literally.” “You- you mean exploding is natural? That my protectiveness made my anger appropriate? Even during the Friendship Games?” “Who wouldn’t? It’s the reason I live with Twilight now. Queen Chrysalis was outraged at Jon because his broken care-taking promise cost her my mom’s life.” I gasp now, at the thought of Chrysalis doing the same as I would in the same situation. I saw that when I hugged Aita. “That’s right. Your memories showed that Chrysalis managed to turn her attitude around too, and that she cares for her kind now more than ever. Thanks for helping me out with that. I seriously will have to pay you a visit when we’re all done with this. In the meantime, tell Twilight I said hi.” Aita nods and gives me a hug. Then, goes through the mirror. “This isn’t over yet, Spitfire.” *** While hanging out with Spike in the kitchen, I hear that familiar piano play from a small speaker. I gasp. “Spike, that must be Aita.” I rush out of the kitchen to the library, seeing that Aita seems to be relieved about the current time coming from his DS. “Twilight!” Aita cheers, coming over to me and hugging me. “How’s Sunset Shimmer doing? I heard about what Superintendent Spitfire was trying to do.” “Sunset didn’t like the idea of having the day off just because of a surprise conference. Hopefully, she and the others will try to set things straight.” “I understand,” I reply. “You do have school tomorrow and Friday, and I wouldn’t want you missing it so that somebody could haze you.” “I don’t know. Something about why she wanted to meet me was off to me. I don’t think it has to do with hazing; but because of my name being on the nurse’s record. I don’t think Principal Celestia or Vice Principal Luna picked up on it, but I certainly did.” “Your name? …no… You don’t think Superintendent Spitfire was acting-” I start, but notice Aita nodding. “Then we must let Queen Chrysalis know about this at once!” I run over to the table and grab and unfurl a scroll. Dear Queen Chrysalis, On Aita’s visit to Canterlot High School in Sunset Shimmer’s world, he’s found out about Superintendent Spitfire and her ongoing, heavily outdated behavior, including her history as a hazy drill instructor and her xenophobic tendencies. If you could help us out for a while, we’d be immensely grateful. Yours truly, Princess Twilight. “Wanna do the honors, Aita?” Aita nods, then takes the letter and sends it to its recipient. “Alright, we’ll have to wait before she-” Suddenly, Queen Chrysalis teleports into the castle library between the two of us. “Twilight! Is it true?!? Was someone trying to harm young Aita?!?” *** Twilight explains the situation to Chrysalis as we gather around the table. “I must thank you for writing to me, Princess Twilight. Let your friends over in Sunset’s world know that I will deal with this abuse of power personally. No one, especially me, will take these actions on the throne!” “You have my word. Dear Sunset Shimmer, I write to you about the situation regarding Superintendent Spitfire. If you plan on bringing your friends, I’ve got one right by my side right now. You’ve probably heard of her: Queen Chrysalis.” Of course, Twilight. Thank you very much for that help. Send her over right away. Bring Aita too if you want. “Hm. Sunset Shimmer hasn’t been in Equestria since before you moved to Ponyville, so how did she know I was reformed?” Chrysalis asks. “Oh yeah, she never got a chance to tell you two, but she can apparently access the memory of whoever she touches.” “She WHAT? She’s contacted me all this time, and she never ONCE told me about that? Even before encountering Spitfire?!?” As Chrysalis facehoofs, I start to wince at Twilight’s bewilderment. Maybe turning human should help avoid that taste. “Oof… well it was a pretty new development.” “Aita, when did you learn to turn human?” Chrysalis asks, pointing out my new form. Huh, she seems genuinely interested in that. “Oh, this is the form I took on at the alternate Canterlot. I… didn’t really have a choice on that. I still taste emotions now, but I didn’t across the portal.” “Maybe it’s possible I can learn this form early from you.” Chrysalis proceeds to change into her own human form, a towering six feet. Only downside is… learning to walk. “Whoa… t-tell me how this walking is done!” Twilight lets out a chuckle and points to the mirror/portal. “Well, now that the two of are done practicing, it’s time to get to the crux of it all.” “Oh, right.” Chrysalis and I say. We change back to our natural form and finally go through the mirror. Chapter VIIISomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter IXAuthor's Note CHU: While writing, I was trying to strike a balance between vindication and abiding by TV-Y restrictions. I ultimately settled on Chrysalis throwing Spitfire's own desk tag at her. Chapter IX Chrysalis knocks on the door pretty plainly. The head of Camp Hayseed? What’s she doing here so late? Come in! “Good evening, Superintendent Spitfire.” “Got some odd summer clothes going on there, huh? Kind of like-” Spitfire gasps, the points to me. “Kind of like him.” “Don’t you go anywhere near young Aita! Princes Twilight informed me of what happened earlier today! He was lucky Celestia and Luna were with him!” Hm. Spitfire seems unfazed by Chrysalis. Guess she really was a drill instructor. “If you think that’s going to make me think twice, then you are sorely mistaken. In case you have forgotten, I was a drill instructor for five years.” “Regardless of my memory, did you ever once think it was never your job to berate the people who count on you?” “What are you talking about, Chrysalis? I did exactly what I was supposed to do: steer those cadets straight.” Did Spitfire just say what I think she said? In this context Aita, it means to steer someone straight by humiliating them. “So you admit to what you did in that leak?” “I dunno, do sirens always come here and feed on negativity?” If Chrysalis wasn’t here right now, I would be crying right now. “You disgusting individual! The school board will hear about this misconduct!!” “Sure, Chrysalis. You want disgusting, maybe try Suri Polomare for size. She used to work with this school. The only thing I had a hand in was a sturdy tradition at WonderColts Headquarters.” “It’s not a tradition; it’s an epidemic! Not a soul deserves to be harmed without the wrongdoing that comes with it!” As Chrysalis is yelling, Spitfire facepalms. “Listen, you can act like a commander all you want, but I know when to do it; this is not that place. I plan things, alright? I don’t work with students unless they come to me. The least you could do is just calm down and tell me what’s wrong.” “Then why am I the exception?” I ask. “Why? I don’t remember you calling a surprise day off when either Twilight Sparkle came to CHS!” “That doesn’t prove anything because I was on vacation.” Chrysalis begins pounding the desk. “Superintendent Spitfire! Listen to yourself! Young Aita asked you a question! Are you seriously lying to distract from your blatant discrimination?!?” “Okay first of all Chrysalis, that meeting has nothing to do with him anymore. Major faculty has already settled to let him go to school. Second, not everybody’s going to know what his name actually means.” “My old family knew, and so did this world’s Twilight.” “But that’s not everybody, right?” *** So far, I’ve been barely keeping it together with this disgusting excuse for life, but the moment I see Aita gasp and run away in tears at Spitfire’s comment, that is the last straw. I see nothing but red surrounding Spitfire. I grab what is presumably the desk tag, and throw it between her eyes. She falls back with her chair as a result. I make a… gallop… for it and look for Aita. It’s really too bad I don’t have the senses I can usually rely on back in Equestria. It would make it much easier to find him. I look around the school and come up short. “Aita? Aita?” I call along the way. When I finally make it to the front of the school, a passerby has a promising expression of concern. “Aita?” I call one last time. “Have you seen Aita?” The passerby points to the portal with his thumb then shrugs. “Thanks.” I walk through the portal back to Twilight’s castle. I take a quick second to sniff. Yes, I knew it! I can feel emotions again! I look around the library, and huddled under the roundtable in the fetal position is Aita. “Aita?” “C… Chrysalis?” I walk around the table and approach him, then lie down face to face with him. “I’m right here. I deeply apologize you had to experience that. No one should have to.” Suddenly, the door to the library opens. “What going on? I heard some-” Someone gasps. “Aita?” Oh, right. It’s Starlight Glimmer. Oh hey, Twilight’s with her too. Aita jumps off the floor, clinging to Twilight’s left foreleg and beginning to sob. “Queen Chrysalis, what happened?” “Twilight, you have to alert Sunset Shimmer, and alert the Canterlot school board!” “Huh? …Am I missing something?” Starlight asks. “We’ll fill you in when this is all finished.” Twilight floats the journal to herself and writes aloud. Sunset Shimmer? This is Twilight. Superintendent Spitfire has gone too far and intentionally drove Aita to tears with her comments. Report her behavior to your school board as soon as you can. Twilight begins to lie down and comfort Aita. “Shhh… it’s okay, Aita. You’re safe and sound, back in Equestria now.” Don’t worry, Twilight! I’ll get right on it! I scoot closer to Aita and help Twilight out a little bit. Hush now little changeling; you’re loved by all you know. You’ll never lose their friendships no matter where you go. There is no call to worry, ‘cause we are by your side; our mission is your safety so amour is supplied. As it turns out, the short lullaby calms Aita down enough to look at me and nuzzle my nose. Soon after, he falls asleep. I completely forgot it was getting late here too. “...Did you always used to sing like that?” Starlight asks me. “Very much. All developing changelings need this maternal affection to survive. Aita was lucky we were on the other side of the portal; comments like what we got would’ve done him more than mental harm here in Equestria. Just look at what simply losing Queen Areola did to Carve when she was a child.” “Thanks for all your help, Queen Chrysalis. I never imagined all this was possible, that someone could hurt Aita on such an emotional level.” “One more thing, Twilight. Keep Aita home tomorrow so he can recuperate properly.” Twilight nods. “Okay. I’ll let Miss Cheerilee know first thing in the morning.” Chapter XSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter XIWhen my friends, Chrysalis, Princess Twilight, the officers and I arrive at Superintendent Spitfire’s door, Time Turner steps toward the wall on his side of the hall to let Soarin’ knock. Come in, Officer Soarin’. After the door opens, I can hear a faint “and of course you got company” from Spitfire. “What is it, boys?” “One of the students at Canterlot High School sent a report about the events of last night shortly before your closing time,” Time Turner starts, pointing his right thumb to me. “We concluded that your ongoing commentary comes in violation of all laws regarding verbal harassment. Superintendent Spitfire, you are under arrest.” “Wh-what?!? You officers seriously wouldn’t do this, would you?” Soarin’ begins to take Spitfire out of her chair while Time Turner pulls out handcuffs. “I’m sorry Spitfire, but you have a lot to rein in!” Everyone witnessing the officers manhandle Spitfire starts getting satisfied looks on their faces, including me. “H-hey! I belong on that chair unless I-” Spitfire ends up interrupted, gagged by Soarin’s hand. Time Turner and Soarin’ begin to take Spitfire out of her office. The officers stop next to Chrysalis, hearing her. “I am immensely greateful for you doing this, officers. Young Aita will be safe visiting Canterlot High School thanks to you.” “Hey, it’s what we do,” Soarin’ replies. “You could come here too if you wanted and catch up.” “Then that won’t be any time soon. I am a queen after all.” “Aw, schucks. Well, let’s keep going, Officer Turner.” And the officers are off with Spitfire between the two of them. As they leave, Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna appear to greet everyone. “Celestia and Luna!” Princess Twilight exclaims. “I thought today was your day off.” Luna puts her right hand on her hips. “Normally it would be, but sister and I were alerted about the report. Of course, now we need to hire a new superintendent.” Well, obvious that replacement will have to actually qualify. Because this is Canterlot High rather than a far-off hive, maybe I can vote on Thorax. “Can you see if you can call Thorax?” “WHAT?!?” Princess Twilight and Chrysalis respond. “What’s wrong with that?” I ask. “It’s the Thorax from this world.” “Oh.” Twilight apologizes for the outburst. “Sure thing, Sunset Shimmer.” Principal Celestia picks up her phone and dials Thorax. “I’m not sure he has the time right now, but-” Oh, uh, hi. Sorry you missed me. I was too busy to answer, but if you leave me a message at- “Odd. He’s the likeliest staff member at the school board to pick up. I’m sure it’s just the time of week.” Principal Celestia’s phone rings before she can put it back in her pocket. “Hello?” Principal Celestia? Did you call? “I tried.” Oh, sorry. My hands were a little full. What did you need? “Would you be interested in filling in as superintendent? Our previous one has just been taken behind bars.” That sounds good. Why don’t I drive over tomorrow and start right away. “Perfect. See you tomorrow.” Principal Celestia hangs up the phone. *** “Wow, I’m surprised there’s only one Thorax left,” Spike says after Chrysalis and Princess Twilight explain to me what happened to Equestria’s Thorax. With my journal on-hand I give the two a big hug. “If leadership works like I think it does here compared to in Equestria, Thorax might be the superintendent your school needs. Our Spitfire is still leader of the Wonderbolts while yours got arrested. I can see the same logic applying both ways.” I beam. “Thanks, Twilight. I really hope we get to meet again soon. There is always next weekend after all.” “Same here, Sunset.” Princess Twilight wraps her right arm around me. “Queen Chrysalis and I should be getting back now. Be sure to check your journal tonight. I might send you an update on Aita’s situation.” Everyone starts waving and cheering their farewells as Princess Twilight and Chrysalis go through the mirror. For Applejack, hers was a “keep a chin-up” remark. And Rarity’s was, “and say hi to our counterparts for us.” But that’s all I can distinguish. After everyone’s calmed down, I think for a second. Where do we go now? Another hangout session, that’s what we’ll do. We sure could use it after yesterday and today. We already did the park for the cookout. The fair isn’t open yet, so that’s a no-go. I can’t really afford a cruise yet. Maybe some good old-fashioned entertainment. “So, how about a trip to the arcade? I hear there’s a Tirek game coming out. That ought to get our minds off of school until Tuesday.” “Ooh, how about we sign up to do a live performance there?” Rainbow Dash suggests. “I hear Applejack made a real banger.” “Aw, I thought you’d never ask.” “And what about the outfits?” Rarity asks. Twilight smiles, slowly waving her hand, then gives us all a thumbs up. “I don’t think it matters what we wear, just as long as we look good playing.” Fluttershy is left blushing in the excitement. “And we’ll make sure our instruments are at peak performance, right?” Everyone else nods. “YEAH! RAINBOOMS PARTY TIME!!” Pinkie Pie shouts excitedly. “Then we put it in there everybody! Ready?” Rainbow Dash rallies, putting her right hand out palm down. The rest of us join in. “1, 2, 3…” “Go Rainbooms!” Everyone shouts as they left each hand into the air. We all break to go home and get our instruments tuned and ready for the arcade. On my way home, I think of how this weekend has gone, from the cookout to hanging out with Aita and everything inbetween. Monday is called off now due to the superintendent incident, which just means we have more time to relax now that everything is quiet again. I just hope it stays that way for a while so that I can visit Twilight more. I see that there’s some mail, which I take in as I enter my house. Author's Note 9/18/22 The reason this is still incomplete is because of a song I'm making for this work. I don't quite have a name for it, but the chorus is all lyrically finished. It's probably not gonna be until next week before I post the last chapter, but if I do get a comment on my latest video [Journey by Jack Getschman on GBC], I'll be able to post the song right away if it's complete. 9/24/22 Looking at this chapter, this seems to've wrapped everything up on its own. Looks like I won't be needing the arcade performance scene. Here's hoping for a new story. I got a new idea involving someone that could've had a lot of potential in-show, being the sibling to a former king.
Chapter IHi. You may remember seeing me and my friends at Camp Everfree. Ever since I’ve gotten home, I’ve been really reflecting on things: the Fall Formal, the sirens, everything like that. Crazy how fast time flies, you know? Well, now that I look back, my first years I came here are quite the far cry compared to Camp Everfree. Seeing Twilight and Gloriosa go through the same exact thing I have really puts you in a different perspective. Good thing it’s the weekend. Hopefully I should have some time to hang out rather than trying to save the world. Well, since I’m home, I really got nothing better to do. I get out of bed and pull out the journal from the side-table. As I get my pen ready, I take a quick breath. Dear Twilight, I figured I’d try to contact you. I finally have the time to just sit and chat, well more write so to speak. How are things going in your world? I had fun at the Camp Everfree field trip, though it could do without having another she-demon roaming around; it’s a long story. Well, just thought I’d see if I could stop by for the weekend. After writing out the paragraph, I carry my journal with me to the kitchen while I get some breakfast, keeping the current page open. Looking in the corner of my eye while grabbing a drink, the journal starts to materialize text. Ah, Sunset Shimmer! I’m so glad you wrote! I was just winding down too! We have so much to catch up on! I can’t wait to see you again! You think a villain of the week is a long story? Get a load of what Aita and I have in store for you! Wait, who- okay pen time again. Aita? Who’s Aita? Is that a pony in your world? Are you dating someone? Aita… seriously, what kind of name is that? Doesn’t even sound like a pony name. After preparing breakfast, two large pancakes with syrup and orange juice, I take two trips to the living room with that and the journal to eat and watch a little TV. While eating, Twilight writes back. He’s seven. Take a wild guess. …okay, the fact I asked that made me really uncomfortable. Well, looks like breakfast is all done now. I cannot believe I asked that date question. I should’ve known he was a child. Whatever food is left gets sealed into foil on the plate and inserted into the fridge. I put the cup and silverware in the sink and wash my hands before I go back to the living room and write back. Sorry. Didn’t know. Why don’t I go over and see what he’s like. I’m really hoping to meet someone in Equestria as a changed person. Great. Sounds like a plan; meet you there, Sunset. See you in a little bit, then. As soon as I finish my message, my door knocks. “Coming!” I rush to the foyer and open the door, which reveals to be the other Twilight Sparkle: this world’s. “Hey, Twilight.” “Hey, Sunset. Any plans this weekend? We’re having a cookout this afternoon,” Twilight greets, waving her hand then imitating pinning down a burger with a spatula. I hesitate hearing my friends’ plans. “Oh... sorry, but I found out the other Twilight might’ve adopted a colt back in Equestria. I was hoping to meet him there.” “Understood. Too bad you’ll be missing out on the chips,“ Twilight replies in a sing-song tone, holding out her other hand to reveal two bags of party-size wavy chips. “Maybe I’ll talk to Twilight about it before I come back, okay? I’m sure you girls won’t mind if I end up a little late.” Twilight shortly waves her hand in front of her in response. “Oh no-no-not at all. You have somebody else to meet. I’ll just go check with everyone else.” She pauses a moment, still thinking of being without me unlike in Camp Everfree. “Are you sure about missing the cookout? This is our first casual gathering, and i’d love it if you were there.” “Twilight,” I say, resting my hand on her shoulder. “this isn’t Camp Everfree. We can do it any time we want. Just because I could miss this cookout doesn’t mean there won’t be next time. I hope I don’t miss it, but it’s not the end of the world if I do.” Twilight pauses before giving me a hug. “Thanks, Sunset. I know i shouldn’t be worrying about it, but I’m glad you could clear things up,” she says, letting go. “I guess I should head to the superstore before they start wondering where I am, huh?“ I nod. And with that, Twilight starts walking. So I close the door. “Don’t worry, Twilight. I’ll get there as soon as I can.” I insert the journal into the backpack put on pretty much at the same time. Roughly fifteen minutes later, I arrive in front of the school. Looking around me, the only thing different about the front yard is the lack of a statue from the events of the Friendship Games. Crazy how things like that change so quickly, huh? But this isn’t the right time I need to get hooked on the past. I have a new potential friend to meet, and his name is Aita. I close my eyes and sigh. “Here I come A- oof!” I walk into the right corner of the mirror and fall into a sitting position with my hands on the ground behind me. It takes a few seconds to get my bearings back. “Ooh, I’ve really got to look where I’m g-ah, hah, haaaaaaa!” After I get up and try going through the mirror again, I start spiraling my way to Equestria. It’s a good thing I’m just a normally developed person slash pony due to the flashing blue and pink ambience. After a few seconds, it all goes dark with a thud… and some falling plastic.
Chapter II“Twilight! I’m home!” I call to Twilight Sparkle after arriving home from my first day of school. However, it doesn’t sound like Twilight is anywhere close to me in the castle, if at all. Searching thoroughly, she doesn’t seem to be anywhere. As I finally look to the throne room, I see her: the Princess of Friendship herself. She turns to face me. “Ah! Aita! I thought I heard you. How was your first day in School?” “I liked it,” I reply with a smile. Twilight nods. “That’s good.” She seems a little busy with… a book? Journal? What is it? “Hey Twilight, what’s that? I know it’s a book, but-“ “Oh this?” Twilight asks, floating the book into the air. “It’s a communication journal. How do I explain this? Has your old family ever had any long-distance friends?” Hm, I think I see where she’s going with this. “Probably. We’d use electronic mail for something like that, or if we were stuck at home.” “Well, Aita, this journal achieves the same goal, only with a friend an entire world away.” Suddenly, the two of us hear a thud. “What was that?” I ask. “I think I know, but maybe you should-” Before Twilight could finish, I teleport to where the thud happened. Suddenly, in front of the library table is a unicorn laying on her front and groaning. How’d she get here? Next to her is my DS, which I put back on top of the mirror. “Ooh, why’s it smell in here?” the unicorn faintly notes- waaaait a minute. Why does she look familiar? “Okay, seriously, the castle isn’t supposed to- huh?” I wave at her when I see she has spotted me. “Aw, a juvenile changeling! Are you Aita? I heard Twilight had someone staying with her.” I nod with a smile. “Well, yeah. Are you Sunset Shimmer?” “Wait; how did you know me?” “Long story,” I say. “What sounded like plastic dropping when I came in here?” I float the DS back into the air and opening it to show Sunset. “That would be this, an old device of mine with two screens. Hopefully, it should still work after a fall like that.” Sunset shakes her head to get her bearings while I press the power button. Sure enough, it works. “I never knew you liked gaming. Was that from your old family? Equestria isn’t exactly known for its technology.” Aita? Aita… Twilight calls, opening the door afterward. “There you are. I see you’ve met Sunset already.” I nod. Sunset Shimmer attempts to get up, only like a human would, before falling back down. I hold in a giggle as she gets up again, this time like a pony normally does. “Whoa. That feels a little weird after all this time. Hey, Twilight. How come Aita knew my name?” “Well, Sunset, he actually comes from a world that has documented Equestria and its past. It started a few years ago when I first came to Ponyville.” Sunset Shimmer winces. “Eugh… that doesn’t sit right.” “Well, good thing that’s off limits though,” I add. “No one’s ever going to pop into Equestria after what happened last Hearth’s Warming.” “So, Sunset, do you plan on staying long?” “Actually, Twilight, my friends are assembling a cookout.” “Oh. Well Aita,” Twilight asks, turning to me. “wanna go with Sunset Shimmer for a while?” I nod. “Why not? Sounds like it should be a lot of fun.” “A little warning though, Aita. It’s gonna feel funny going through the portal.” “I can imagine that after seeing you come here.” Sunset Shimmer nods, then goes through the mirror. “You know what to do, Aita. Good luck out there, okay?” “Okay,” I say. “Thanks.” I take a hop skip and a jump into the mirror and go through some flashy highway. “WhoawaaawAAA!” PING! As soon as the flashing stops, I’m met with a small sting on my back legs. Somehow they feel longer, and for that matter, all of them. Looking around, I seem to be wearing small shorts, socks, sneakers, and a relatively loose t-shirt. “Aita! You okay? I know you just went through the mirror, but you seem like you just got stung by a bee!” “I think I-” I start before I roll over and see roughed up human-shape legs. “Here, we’ll get you to a family restroom and clean you up.” When I see Sunset again, she’s become human too, mostly going off the hands she has on her now. I wonder: do I have those too? I do, and they’re curled up. That’s gonna feel weird getting used to. “So, we’re both human now, huh Sunset?” “Exactly,” she answers. In what looks like a nurse’s office, there is a bathroom both Sunset and I can enter. She grabs some wetted paper towels and wipes up my legs. After that, I wash my newly found hands and prepare to leave. Before I go, a lookalike of one of the ponies in Ponyville pads my legs out to make sure they’re clean. “Thanks for your help, Sunset,” the nurse says. “Not every day does somebody get scrapes like those.” “No sweat; it’s what I do. So, ready to head out Aita?” I nod. “Then we have a cookout to attend.” So, Sunset and I head out of the nurse’s office. When Sunset looks at her phone though, she’s shocked at what time it is. “It’s almost lunchtime! Come on, Aita! We have to hurry!” You guys need a ride? asks a voice from behind. Looking behind in the hall reveals that voice to come from Flash Sentry. “Well, Aita? You know who he is if you know me, right?” I nod. “Flash Sentry.” “Not every day a new student knows his way around the school at day one, but that sounds great. Saves us the energy. Come on Sunset, where are you headed?” “To the park. Twilight and the rest are having a cookout.” “Say no more, Sunset,” Flash Sentry replies. “I’ll be there before lunchtime.” And with that, Flash Sentry leads us to his sports car. You know, maybe I could use some lunch myself.
Chapter IIIAfter making a quick pitstop home to grab a clipboard, paper and pen, I arrive at the park with a checklist for all the tools necessary for a great cookout. “Okay, the rest should be here with the supplies any minute. In the meantime: chips: check!” I set down the two large bags of chips and tick them off the checklist as Applejack comes with the lighter fluid, a roll of foil, and the matches in a reusable bag. “There you are, Twilight!” Applejack happily greets. “This spot good for the oil ‘n stuff?” “Uh huh. Lighter fluid, aluminum foil, matches: check, check and check.” “Alright! Cookout showtime!” Pinkie Pie shouts enthusiastically, holding a bag of charcoal. “Charcoal: check.” “So, we’ll be dining in the wide open, then?” Rarity asks, carrying tall packages of plates and napkins. I nod. “Plates and napkins: mega-check.” Next, Fluttershy joins in with crates of buns, beef, soda and condiments. “You think this will be enough?” I nod again. “Sure, Fluttershy. Put them right next to the plates. Food: check!” “Alright!” Rainbow Dash cheers. “We got everything! I made sure I brought forks, knives and spatulas.” “And lastly, silverware: check! We’re all set, everybody!” As everyone is cheering, Flash Sentry’s car pulls up a ways from us. “Anyone invite Flash?” I ask. “Actually, looks like it’s Sunset Shimmer. Maybe she just got a ride,” Applejack points out. As Sunset Shimmer gets out through the passenger side, she walks around the car to talk to Flash Sentry. Meanwhile, somebody else gets out the same side Sunset did. Sunset and Flash exchange bumps to the fists before the driver’s window rolls up. Sunset then waves goodbye as Flash presumably heads home. The sports car pulling out reveals what looks like a unique student. He is dark grey in tone and has some pretty casual summer clothing. Maybe this is the one Sunset mentioned back home. “Sunset Shimmer!” Hearing her name, she quickly approaches me with the child following suit. The two of us give each other a high five. “I suppose the talk with the other me went well?” “Mhm. Hey Twilight, this is Aita. He’s the one Twilight took in after Hearth’s Warming.” “Ah! Aita! That’s a great name!” I start. “It’s Japanese for-” Aita joins in with a smile. “‘It was open,' commonly referring to doors.” “So, if you’re the human counterpart to Princess Twilight, then the rest of you must be counterparts to her friends, right?” “Mighty tight deductive skills there, how’d you reach that conclusion so fast?” Applejack asks, obviously impressed. *** I take in a deep breath, preparing for my answer before Pinkie Pie interrupts. “You’re from an alternate world that isn’t Equestria, but isn’t your home anymore because of a horrible catastrophe, and you’re actually a kid changeling in that world AND Equestria that saw recordings of our lives back in a native-sounding homestate.” It’s just like the original movie three years ago! Only difference now is that Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Fluttershy are the ones stunned instead. I think maybe that’s because of the thought of being recorded without them knowing. “I know, girls. The feeling is mutual,” says Sunset. As grilling goes on, done by Applejack by the way, Twilight and I take a try at the drinks. They’re pretty much identical to the ones back in Wisconsin. It brings a thought to my mind that I never knew I had before. “Just a thought, but back home, my old family had someone in school. Sometimes he’d stay home a day later or earlier than usual, even though it wouldn’t be a holiday that day.” Twilight beams, getting the buns ready. “Oh. I know what you’re talking about, Aita. We usually have the day off when the superintendent heads a meeting at our school for the morning. Think of it this way: if you had to concentrate on a goal that was hard to accomplish, but imperative to happen…” “I would need more room, peace and quiet for me to achieve that goal,” I finish. “I think I know what’s going on with that now. Superintendent’s Conference Day. Thanks for helping me with that, Twilight.” “Alright! Who wants the first patty?” Applejack asks, putting a perfectly done beef patty on one of the buns. I look around, seeing everyone considering the option. Nobody seems to raise their hand. I’ve seen this situation last summer, where the first burger is done and nobody wants to make Chrysalis’ behavior at Shining Armor’s wedding look good. Now I get to participate and break the ice, so I raise my hand, willing to try out the burger without guilt. “Hm, usually somebody else would’ve raised their hand by now. Looks like that’s you, Aita. What’chall want on it?” Applejack gets the condiments ready and begins listening for me. “Oh. I’ll start simple with cheese and ketchup, sort of ease into lunch.” “Okay, soocherself. Ready, Rainbow?” Rainbow Dash scoots over to the left with Applejack, then puts a little ketchup and cheese on the burger and tops it off with another bun. “Here you go, Aita,” she says. Sunset grabs my attention before I start eating. “Aita, I think you have to see this.” “What’s going on?” I ask, prompting Sunset to show me writing appearing on her journal. Dear Sunset Shimmer, I just thought I’d let you know that I’ll be busy for a while; the map is calling. Whenever I leave, I’ll be sure to lock the door so that Aita’s essentials are safe and sound. “Aw, that’s too bad. And here was hoping to come back to Equestria with an actual- never mind; this is actually filling me up.” I interrupt myself upon realizing the burger is actually satisfying. It’s not even the usual way of love being included in the food; it actually is satisfying to eat alone. “Thank you very much for this, Applejack.” “Aw, shucks. Nothin’ to it, Aita. Next!” “Ooh! Ooh! Pick me! Pick me!” Pinkie excitedly shouts, jumping up and down. “Well, looks like I won’t be in any rush to bring you home, huh Aita?” I nod at Sunset.
Chapter IVSo, after everyone has had a burger (or two), chips and a bottle of soda each, everyone feels full, especially me. I’m not used to having to eat for nutrition, but the burger tasted like how I remember nostalgia tasting like. “Ooh, that was the chips wasn’t it?” Twilight says, looking around. “I might have served too much,” replies Rainbow Dash. “Could we have brought a clip for one of the bags?” “Perhaps.” Rarity looks over to me. “Oh, look at poor Aita. It was a good thing Princess Twilight left home; he must not be used to eating like us. He can’t even join in what little conversation we do have.” Sunset rests her head over her arms. “Believe me; I’ve been there, Rare.” “I think I’ll call Granny Smith and tell her to get Big Mac and pick. us. up. Real satisfied with the cookin’, but I would be caught dead eatin’ another bite.” “You can count on me!” Pinkie replies, handing her phone to Applejack. It seems to be on speaker, set to call Granny Smith. Yes, hello! Pinkie Pie? “Hi Granny Smith!” we all answer. Oh! Y’all had that big cookout! Now Ah r’memeber! Wish Ah c’bring y’all some apples, but- “It’s okay; we filled up on our own.” Did ya now, Sunny? Heh, any y’all need a ride home? “Yes, Granny. Is Big Mac with you?” Applejack asks. Darn tootin’! Ah’ll make sher he brings the van for the seven of you! Big Mac, you got the van ready? Sunset briefly chuckles. “Make that eight. We had a last minute guest.” Eeyup, Big Mac answers to Granny Smith through the phone. Looks like yer goin’ all ov’r town! Yer sister and her friends stuffed themselves ‘til they couldn’t walk! Need gas? Mmmaybe. Twenty-five will do. Break a leg out there, Big Macky! So y’all need anythin’ else? “Pretty sure that’s all,” Twilight replies. “Whatever else there is, we’ll handle just fine.” Alright, if ya say so. See ya later Applejack! Bring any leftovers home! “Will do, Granny.” Pinkie’s phone hangs up, letting Applejack finally get up and past the feeling of fullness. She starts packing the leftover food and drink into the now empty cooler. “Twilight, y’all wanna do cleanup?” “Sure.” Twilight closes her eyes. While she does that, all the garbage starts floating in one of the empty chip bags: foil, napkins, knives, and paper plates. Totally forgot Twilight could float stuff. “Ev’rbody else take a rest while Big Mac’s on his way. Y’all look like you could use it.” I point to the sky, then flop my arm back. “Isn’t that an understatement.” *** When Big Mac arrives with the van, Applejack puts the leftovers in the back area and gets in the front while Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and Twilight go in the backseats; Rarity and Fluttershy get in the third row; and Sunset and I take the second. “So, did that cookout go well?” Big Mac asks. “Mhm!” Everybody nods and buckles up, including me. “Aita here was just simply delightful!” Rarity pats my head, which because of my new physique, feels more comfortable than it would’ve before. “The food was really good,” Sunset adds. “Fluttershy went all out on the soft-drink and condiment selections.” “Aw, thank you so much, Sunset Shimmer.” “Hey, did …anybody else get a text from CHS calling for a surprise SCD?” Pinkie shows her phone to everyone in the back three rows. Sunset checks her phone. “Hm. Superintendent Conference Day? …that can’t be right.” Twilight begins reading the text she, Sunset and Pinkie all apparently got. “As anybody knows who visited CHS this Saturday, a new student has arrived on campus. I would like to hold a special conference at Canterlot High School welcoming this new student on Monday. Yours truly, Superintendent Spitfire.” “Well, that’s confusing. I would’ve thought Spitfire served more as one of those people that yells at everyone because it was her job,” I reply. “So a drill instructor? She got fired from that job years ago; apparently caused a haze epidemic.” “Haze? What’s Rainbow Dash mean?” “In this context, Aita, it means to steer someone straight by humiliating them,” Twilight explains. “Someone leaked the news of Spitfire’s behavior during our Freshmen year.” “And guess who did it…” Sunset starts, before rubbing her right upper arm. “Hazing or not, I’m lucky I still attend CHS today after that leak.” I don’t really find it surprising Sunset got Spitfire fired. While I see where she’s getting at, I am not about to let her past cloud her own judgement. “Sunset,” I say, resting me hand her right shoulder. “You know as well as I do that all the bad stuff is in the past. I may never forget the moment I first met Princess Celestia, but that bad first impression doesn’t make her a bad person. Besides, I’ll be seeing Superintendent Spitfire; you won’t have to.” “Thanks, Aita. You said it best.” Sunset gives me a warm hug, but then looks around, making me do the same. Looks like we’re back at CHS. “CHS is our first stop, huh?” she asks Big Mac. “Eeyup.” “Well Aita, I’ll come through on Monday, okay? Best of luck to you at that meeting.” I nod at Sunset as we get out of the van. I think of saying something, but another comes up in my head: my schedule. “Wait a minute: I’m supposed to be at school in Ponyville during the meeting!” “You are? Maybe we should go over and explain that to Principal Celestia and have her let Superintendent Spitfire know! Girls, we’ll have to talk later, but please do not stay home on Monday. Meet me at the school, and we’ll talk with Spitfire directly,” Sunset orders. Pinkie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Twilight all nod. “We’ll have to catch up some more later, sound good, Big Mac?” Big Mac nods. “Eeyup.” “Let’s go, Aita.” And with that, while Big Mac’s van leaves, Sunset Shimmer and I head back to Canterlot High.
Chapter VSunset Shimmer and… Aita Bagley-Handy, please report to the principal’s office. In the front halls, I perk up to the sound of the intercom calling me and Sunset’s names. In fact, I haven’t heard my full name in a LONG time. Something isn’t right, though. Why Principal Celestia? She hasn’t met me. “That’s us… is something wrong?” “Yeah. No one over here ever said my full name. Why would Principal Celestia know? She hasn’t even seen my face.” “Maybe a lookalike attends some far-off school; I don’t know. For now though, we go in and tell her. Alright?” Sunset asks. I nod. Sunset and I head into the office and take the two student chairs in the room. “Good afternoon. I believe you both had some news for me?” “Yes, Principal Celestia,” Sunset Shimmer starts. “Me and my friends got a text announcing a surprise day off on Monday.” “Surprise day off… who was it from?” “Superintendent Spitfire. She even signed it at the end.” “Ah, now that’s an interesting story, you two. Have a seat and let’s talk about it.” Celestia invites us to pull our chairs up. “You see, during your sophomore year, Sunset, Canterlot High was undergoing some quick changes, one of which was the hiring of Superintendent Spitfire. After the old superintendent was let go for her… outdated outlook, Spitfire came in and fixed the policies made by her predecessor. Considering her resume stated she was previously an instructor at WCHQ, she seemed very experienced in scheduling. While I admit that she can be a bit sacred about what she plans, I’m sure I can reason with her about this sudden change in planning. Here’s hoping she reconsiders.” Sunset Shimmer smiles to me, then back to Principal Celestia. “Thanks for telling us as much as you could. I hope so too, considering Aita has school at the same time back in Equestria.” Principal Celestia looks puzzled a first, but ultimately nods. “All the more reason to have that discussion with Superintendent Spitfire. Will there be anything else?” “That should be it. Sunset?” “Pretty sure.” So, Principal Celestia leads the two of us out of the office. “Remember you two, I will be right here if you need me; my door is always open.” I expect to hear the door slam, but come up pleasantly surprised when it doesn’t. “You okay, Aita?” Sunset asks me. “Don’t worry about me. I was just expecting to hear that door shut behind us.” “It’s nothing really. I’m sure she’s just working on following her own word. While we’re here and waiting to hear from the principal though, why don’t we head out to the field, maybe get some fresh air.” *** I’ve always had a soft spot for the soccer field. I always felt at home looking at it, and now I’m here. Sunset and I have a seat on the side of the field. “So, you never went into detail; what happened at Hearth’s Warming?” Gee Sunset, way to break the ice. “Should I though? Pinkie pretty much said all you need to know.” “But that doesn’t explain what disaster you might’ve been through. Aita, I won’t tell anybody. I Pinkie promise.” I sigh, then lightly chuckle. “You had me at the Pinkie promise. If you say so.” I begin to lay onto the grass. “Well, my mom and I lived in a world similar to this, just without the diverse tones you guys have. Last Hearth’s Warming, Mom and her best friend were trying to visit each other until it turned out I’d be getting a sibling. But because of how poorly the process was handled compared to with me, I ended up without a changeling family entirely.” “So, you severed all ties with your homeworld?” I nod. “Pretty much. Only ones I really miss are Mom, Sophie and Tim. Even with school, Twilight and the gang keeping me company back in Equestria, I don’t know if I’ll ever be the same changeling I was before.” “Hm. You seem like you’ve been through a lot for just seven years. Took me over forty just to even come close.” I sit back up. “Forty? I know Equestria’s ponies age much slower than humans and changelings, but forty years? How come you’re in CHS then?” “That’s… not what I was getting at. Changeling or Pony, experiences like that can be damaging to someone your age, especially when you lose that many friends. You were pretty lucky since we have a lot of the same friends. I understand why you didn’t want to tell me about Hearth’s Warming, but sharing your experiences is what helps a friend get to know you. Like I said before, I won’t tell anybody else. This is just between you and me.” After her little speech, Sunset wraps her arm around me, so I do the same. She seems to hold it for a lot longer than my other friends ever did. For about a minute, Sunset is frozen in that position until her hand pulls itself out. “Wow; you and Carina did a lot together in Equestria.” “Wait, what? How’d you know my mom’s name?” “Are you forgetting, Aita?” “Oh, right. Your arm collects mental information… I… I understand now. I understand why you guys didn’t like the sound of being recorded without your knowledge… I’m really sorry about watching you and your friends on TV.” “You’re fine, Aita. It’s not like you can take that knowledge back.” Suddenly, I hear Sunset’s phone vibrating. She pulls it out. “It’s Principal Celestia!” Sunset exclaims, answering the call. “Hello? …yeah, he still is… You did? …Sure thing.” Then, the phone hangs up. “Hey Sunset, what’s going on?” I ask. “She’s asking us to report back. We’ll have to cut our time out here short.” I nod. “Okay. Lead the way.” With that, Sunset and I head back inside to Principal Celestia’s office. I really wonder: what did Spitfire say? I’m seriously hoping that Monday will be a regular school day for Sunset and her friends again.
Chapter VIAs Sunset and I enter the office, Principal Celestia is accompanied by Vice Principal Luna, sitting at Celestia’s desk. “Good afternoon, Sunset Shimmer, Aita. Have a seat, you two.” We obey and sit down in front of the two. “Sister told me of the text about the extra day off Superintendent Spitfire was giving all the students, Sunset. May I see that text just to verify?” “Of course, Vice Principal Luna,” Sunset answers, giving her phone to Luna, which is still on that text message. “Hm, it’s the real deal. We looked our message history, and that text never appeared. She did admit she sent the text, but only to the students. It’s possible all faculty are oblivious to this message. I’ve only seen this happen once, two years ago.” Luna must be talking about the former superintendent. “With the old superintendent?” I ask. Luna nods. “Ever since she was let go, rumors came up about Polomare’s arrest due to the continued behavior carried over from her years before Spitfire replaced her as superintendent.” Suri Polomare? Arrested? Makes sense if we know it was true. “Sunset, if Aita could follow me and my sister to see Superintendent Spitfire, we could explain his current situation over in Equestria.” “I would really like that, especially if I’m coming with you.” Celestia shakes her head. “I’m sorry Sunset, but this is something only faculty can resolve. I will be sure to come by and update you on as much as we can though.” Alright, so that means I’m going with Celestia and Luna. *** Celestia, Luna and I enter a part of the school I’ve never seen before. Of course I haven’t seen it because I’m only hearing about this world’s Spitfire just now. We seem to take two rights before we keep going straight. Anyway, we arrive at the superintendent office. Celestia knocks on the door lightly and sparsely. Come on in, Celestia. The three of us come in with Celestia opening the door. When we sit down, I’m the person in the back of the other two. “Ah. Luna… and Aita. What brings you three here?” “You were going to head a last minute meeting on Monday, is that correct?” Celestia asks. “Yeah; Nurse Redheart typed something on her digital record late this morning. I’ve never seen a name like it: Aita. I concluded he must be a new student in CHS, so I was gonna give the others the day off so I can get to know him.” She got my name from some mundane record? I know new names are sought after to get new students, but why not just talk to the principal and get me into CHS? This just doesn’t sit right. “I’m afraid we might have to correct that conclusion,” Luna replies. “He’s from Equestria, and he attends a school elsewhere.” “In fact, his school will be in session during the meeting.” “Eh, makes sense there, Principal. But are you sure he can’t afford to miss a day? We are just starting the final marking period.” “I’m not sure that’s where Equestria currently is in the school year,” Celestia ponders. “Oh that? Last I knew I just got done with my first day.” Celestia and Luna look back at me wide eyes. “Apparently time rates are different here than in Equestria,” Spitfire answers. “But do you think you’re accounting for that fact, kid?” I nod, a little nervous now. “Well, before I get home, we’re gonna need a final verdict from you.” “...or from Princess Twilight.” Spitfire turns her attention to Luna. “Princess Twilight?” “That’s who’s presumably caring for Aita now, is it not?” “Yes Vice Principal Luna,” I say. “Only downside is that she’s currently solving a friendship problem at the moment. I don’t know when she’ll get back home… Maybe I can though.” Celestia faces back to me again, kneeling down. “Why’s that, Aita?” “See, Sunset has a journal that acts like an e-mail history between her and Princess Twilight. I could just ask her to request Twilight’s permission to miss my next day.” Spitfire shifts to a relaxing position. “Sunset Shimmer, huh? I heard she’s finally coming around. Want me to call her?” I nod. “Sunset Shimmer, please report to the Superintendent’s office.” A minute later, Sunset comes in. “I came as quick as I could! I brought the journal in case we needed it.” “Good. Would you mind writing to Princess Twilight about the meeting? She’s really the one that should be making these decisions, not me.” “Sure thing Aita. Dear Princess Twilight, I know you’re busy, but we needed your say on something important. Superintendent Spitfire has scheduled a surprise conference with Aita that happened to conflict with when he’s supposed to go to school back in Ponyville. Should he be in Ponyville or CHS at that moment?” I take a closer look at the journal, which happens to start spawning text. Ah, Sunset Shimmer! I completely forgot about writing to you the moment I got back home! Aita has a school dilemma that you needed me for? Sure. I don’t entirely understand why Spitfire is a superintendent in your world, but she seems interested in welcoming Aita professionally. Once the message finishes, Sunset Shimmer starts writing back. Maybe it’s best you don’t. She’s had a… hazy history. So, CHS or Ponyville? …Hazy? Ponyville; definitely. Sunset looks at me after seeing Twilight’s response. “Well Aita, looks like you’re gonna be home after this.” “Oh, Twilight said I should stay in Ponyville?” “Yeah, and I have a feeling it was because of what I wrote. You know what I’m talking about, right Aita?” “Yep.” “Well, I’m glad we could resolve this issue so quickly. Luna and I will be back in our offices if any of you need us.” Celestia and Luna leave Spitfire’s office. “Well Sunset? You happy to get your classes back?” Spitfire asks. Why is she still smiling? “Not after that performance; schedule the meeting anyway, but with me and my friends instead. Even after the three years since you-know-what, you haven’t changed a bit.” Sunset sure seems angry. Thank the world I’m in that I can’t actually tell. At least now, Sunset and I can leave. It’s no good seeing Sunset in a bad mood.
Chapter VIIAuthor's Note CHU (content heads up): Minor terminology uncommon for the TV-Y rating. Otherwise, enjoy the chapter. Chapter VII Aita and I arrive at the mirror to bring him home. I don’t know what happened back at Spitfire’s office. I’m usually calm about trying to deal with my opposition, even if some of the time I wasn’t very nice. I’ve been more irritable since I turned my attitude around. Could it be a natural response to seeing someone in danger even if only mental? Maybe not. Even if I did leak Spitfire’s behavior as a drill instructor with ulterior motives, this is exactly how I remember her acting and back then, and I wasn’t actually angered by that back then. What’s different here that managed to set me off? “Hey, Aita, before you go, I wanted to ask you something. I noticed that Spitfire’s behavior was exactly the same as it was long before I turned myself around, but back during the leak, I never exploded like that. What’s different now?” Aita gasps. “I think I know. It happens whenever a friend of yours is in danger. In the drill instructor leak, we all know it was the motive to drive others apart that fueled that leak. But now, ever since the Battle of the Bands, you’ve put your friends before yourself. Instead of a simple detour of plans like in the Fall Formal, now it’s the thought of losing your friends because of someone else… sometimes literally.” “You- you mean exploding is natural? That my protectiveness made my anger appropriate? Even during the Friendship Games?” “Who wouldn’t? It’s the reason I live with Twilight now. Queen Chrysalis was outraged at Jon because his broken care-taking promise cost her my mom’s life.” I gasp now, at the thought of Chrysalis doing the same as I would in the same situation. I saw that when I hugged Aita. “That’s right. Your memories showed that Chrysalis managed to turn her attitude around too, and that she cares for her kind now more than ever. Thanks for helping me out with that. I seriously will have to pay you a visit when we’re all done with this. In the meantime, tell Twilight I said hi.” Aita nods and gives me a hug. Then, goes through the mirror. “This isn’t over yet, Spitfire.” *** While hanging out with Spike in the kitchen, I hear that familiar piano play from a small speaker. I gasp. “Spike, that must be Aita.” I rush out of the kitchen to the library, seeing that Aita seems to be relieved about the current time coming from his DS. “Twilight!” Aita cheers, coming over to me and hugging me. “How’s Sunset Shimmer doing? I heard about what Superintendent Spitfire was trying to do.” “Sunset didn’t like the idea of having the day off just because of a surprise conference. Hopefully, she and the others will try to set things straight.” “I understand,” I reply. “You do have school tomorrow and Friday, and I wouldn’t want you missing it so that somebody could haze you.” “I don’t know. Something about why she wanted to meet me was off to me. I don’t think it has to do with hazing; but because of my name being on the nurse’s record. I don’t think Principal Celestia or Vice Principal Luna picked up on it, but I certainly did.” “Your name? …no… You don’t think Superintendent Spitfire was acting-” I start, but notice Aita nodding. “Then we must let Queen Chrysalis know about this at once!” I run over to the table and grab and unfurl a scroll. Dear Queen Chrysalis, On Aita’s visit to Canterlot High School in Sunset Shimmer’s world, he’s found out about Superintendent Spitfire and her ongoing, heavily outdated behavior, including her history as a hazy drill instructor and her xenophobic tendencies. If you could help us out for a while, we’d be immensely grateful. Yours truly, Princess Twilight. “Wanna do the honors, Aita?” Aita nods, then takes the letter and sends it to its recipient. “Alright, we’ll have to wait before she-” Suddenly, Queen Chrysalis teleports into the castle library between the two of us. “Twilight! Is it true?!? Was someone trying to harm young Aita?!?” *** Twilight explains the situation to Chrysalis as we gather around the table. “I must thank you for writing to me, Princess Twilight. Let your friends over in Sunset’s world know that I will deal with this abuse of power personally. No one, especially me, will take these actions on the throne!” “You have my word. Dear Sunset Shimmer, I write to you about the situation regarding Superintendent Spitfire. If you plan on bringing your friends, I’ve got one right by my side right now. You’ve probably heard of her: Queen Chrysalis.” Of course, Twilight. Thank you very much for that help. Send her over right away. Bring Aita too if you want. “Hm. Sunset Shimmer hasn’t been in Equestria since before you moved to Ponyville, so how did she know I was reformed?” Chrysalis asks. “Oh yeah, she never got a chance to tell you two, but she can apparently access the memory of whoever she touches.” “She WHAT? She’s contacted me all this time, and she never ONCE told me about that? Even before encountering Spitfire?!?” As Chrysalis facehoofs, I start to wince at Twilight’s bewilderment. Maybe turning human should help avoid that taste. “Oof… well it was a pretty new development.” “Aita, when did you learn to turn human?” Chrysalis asks, pointing out my new form. Huh, she seems genuinely interested in that. “Oh, this is the form I took on at the alternate Canterlot. I… didn’t really have a choice on that. I still taste emotions now, but I didn’t across the portal.” “Maybe it’s possible I can learn this form early from you.” Chrysalis proceeds to change into her own human form, a towering six feet. Only downside is… learning to walk. “Whoa… t-tell me how this walking is done!” Twilight lets out a chuckle and points to the mirror/portal. “Well, now that the two of are done practicing, it’s time to get to the crux of it all.” “Oh, right.” Chrysalis and I say. We change back to our natural form and finally go through the mirror.
Chapter IXAuthor's Note CHU: While writing, I was trying to strike a balance between vindication and abiding by TV-Y restrictions. I ultimately settled on Chrysalis throwing Spitfire's own desk tag at her. Chapter IX Chrysalis knocks on the door pretty plainly. The head of Camp Hayseed? What’s she doing here so late? Come in! “Good evening, Superintendent Spitfire.” “Got some odd summer clothes going on there, huh? Kind of like-” Spitfire gasps, the points to me. “Kind of like him.” “Don’t you go anywhere near young Aita! Princes Twilight informed me of what happened earlier today! He was lucky Celestia and Luna were with him!” Hm. Spitfire seems unfazed by Chrysalis. Guess she really was a drill instructor. “If you think that’s going to make me think twice, then you are sorely mistaken. In case you have forgotten, I was a drill instructor for five years.” “Regardless of my memory, did you ever once think it was never your job to berate the people who count on you?” “What are you talking about, Chrysalis? I did exactly what I was supposed to do: steer those cadets straight.” Did Spitfire just say what I think she said? In this context Aita, it means to steer someone straight by humiliating them. “So you admit to what you did in that leak?” “I dunno, do sirens always come here and feed on negativity?” If Chrysalis wasn’t here right now, I would be crying right now. “You disgusting individual! The school board will hear about this misconduct!!” “Sure, Chrysalis. You want disgusting, maybe try Suri Polomare for size. She used to work with this school. The only thing I had a hand in was a sturdy tradition at WonderColts Headquarters.” “It’s not a tradition; it’s an epidemic! Not a soul deserves to be harmed without the wrongdoing that comes with it!” As Chrysalis is yelling, Spitfire facepalms. “Listen, you can act like a commander all you want, but I know when to do it; this is not that place. I plan things, alright? I don’t work with students unless they come to me. The least you could do is just calm down and tell me what’s wrong.” “Then why am I the exception?” I ask. “Why? I don’t remember you calling a surprise day off when either Twilight Sparkle came to CHS!” “That doesn’t prove anything because I was on vacation.” Chrysalis begins pounding the desk. “Superintendent Spitfire! Listen to yourself! Young Aita asked you a question! Are you seriously lying to distract from your blatant discrimination?!?” “Okay first of all Chrysalis, that meeting has nothing to do with him anymore. Major faculty has already settled to let him go to school. Second, not everybody’s going to know what his name actually means.” “My old family knew, and so did this world’s Twilight.” “But that’s not everybody, right?” *** So far, I’ve been barely keeping it together with this disgusting excuse for life, but the moment I see Aita gasp and run away in tears at Spitfire’s comment, that is the last straw. I see nothing but red surrounding Spitfire. I grab what is presumably the desk tag, and throw it between her eyes. She falls back with her chair as a result. I make a… gallop… for it and look for Aita. It’s really too bad I don’t have the senses I can usually rely on back in Equestria. It would make it much easier to find him. I look around the school and come up short. “Aita? Aita?” I call along the way. When I finally make it to the front of the school, a passerby has a promising expression of concern. “Aita?” I call one last time. “Have you seen Aita?” The passerby points to the portal with his thumb then shrugs. “Thanks.” I walk through the portal back to Twilight’s castle. I take a quick second to sniff. Yes, I knew it! I can feel emotions again! I look around the library, and huddled under the roundtable in the fetal position is Aita. “Aita?” “C… Chrysalis?” I walk around the table and approach him, then lie down face to face with him. “I’m right here. I deeply apologize you had to experience that. No one should have to.” Suddenly, the door to the library opens. “What going on? I heard some-” Someone gasps. “Aita?” Oh, right. It’s Starlight Glimmer. Oh hey, Twilight’s with her too. Aita jumps off the floor, clinging to Twilight’s left foreleg and beginning to sob. “Queen Chrysalis, what happened?” “Twilight, you have to alert Sunset Shimmer, and alert the Canterlot school board!” “Huh? …Am I missing something?” Starlight asks. “We’ll fill you in when this is all finished.” Twilight floats the journal to herself and writes aloud. Sunset Shimmer? This is Twilight. Superintendent Spitfire has gone too far and intentionally drove Aita to tears with her comments. Report her behavior to your school board as soon as you can. Twilight begins to lie down and comfort Aita. “Shhh… it’s okay, Aita. You’re safe and sound, back in Equestria now.” Don’t worry, Twilight! I’ll get right on it! I scoot closer to Aita and help Twilight out a little bit. Hush now little changeling; you’re loved by all you know. You’ll never lose their friendships no matter where you go. There is no call to worry, ‘cause we are by your side; our mission is your safety so amour is supplied. As it turns out, the short lullaby calms Aita down enough to look at me and nuzzle my nose. Soon after, he falls asleep. I completely forgot it was getting late here too. “...Did you always used to sing like that?” Starlight asks me. “Very much. All developing changelings need this maternal affection to survive. Aita was lucky we were on the other side of the portal; comments like what we got would’ve done him more than mental harm here in Equestria. Just look at what simply losing Queen Areola did to Carve when she was a child.” “Thanks for all your help, Queen Chrysalis. I never imagined all this was possible, that someone could hurt Aita on such an emotional level.” “One more thing, Twilight. Keep Aita home tomorrow so he can recuperate properly.” Twilight nods. “Okay. I’ll let Miss Cheerilee know first thing in the morning.”
Chapter XIWhen my friends, Chrysalis, Princess Twilight, the officers and I arrive at Superintendent Spitfire’s door, Time Turner steps toward the wall on his side of the hall to let Soarin’ knock. Come in, Officer Soarin’. After the door opens, I can hear a faint “and of course you got company” from Spitfire. “What is it, boys?” “One of the students at Canterlot High School sent a report about the events of last night shortly before your closing time,” Time Turner starts, pointing his right thumb to me. “We concluded that your ongoing commentary comes in violation of all laws regarding verbal harassment. Superintendent Spitfire, you are under arrest.” “Wh-what?!? You officers seriously wouldn’t do this, would you?” Soarin’ begins to take Spitfire out of her chair while Time Turner pulls out handcuffs. “I’m sorry Spitfire, but you have a lot to rein in!” Everyone witnessing the officers manhandle Spitfire starts getting satisfied looks on their faces, including me. “H-hey! I belong on that chair unless I-” Spitfire ends up interrupted, gagged by Soarin’s hand. Time Turner and Soarin’ begin to take Spitfire out of her office. The officers stop next to Chrysalis, hearing her. “I am immensely greateful for you doing this, officers. Young Aita will be safe visiting Canterlot High School thanks to you.” “Hey, it’s what we do,” Soarin’ replies. “You could come here too if you wanted and catch up.” “Then that won’t be any time soon. I am a queen after all.” “Aw, schucks. Well, let’s keep going, Officer Turner.” And the officers are off with Spitfire between the two of them. As they leave, Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna appear to greet everyone. “Celestia and Luna!” Princess Twilight exclaims. “I thought today was your day off.” Luna puts her right hand on her hips. “Normally it would be, but sister and I were alerted about the report. Of course, now we need to hire a new superintendent.” Well, obvious that replacement will have to actually qualify. Because this is Canterlot High rather than a far-off hive, maybe I can vote on Thorax. “Can you see if you can call Thorax?” “WHAT?!?” Princess Twilight and Chrysalis respond. “What’s wrong with that?” I ask. “It’s the Thorax from this world.” “Oh.” Twilight apologizes for the outburst. “Sure thing, Sunset Shimmer.” Principal Celestia picks up her phone and dials Thorax. “I’m not sure he has the time right now, but-” Oh, uh, hi. Sorry you missed me. I was too busy to answer, but if you leave me a message at- “Odd. He’s the likeliest staff member at the school board to pick up. I’m sure it’s just the time of week.” Principal Celestia’s phone rings before she can put it back in her pocket. “Hello?” Principal Celestia? Did you call? “I tried.” Oh, sorry. My hands were a little full. What did you need? “Would you be interested in filling in as superintendent? Our previous one has just been taken behind bars.” That sounds good. Why don’t I drive over tomorrow and start right away. “Perfect. See you tomorrow.” Principal Celestia hangs up the phone. *** “Wow, I’m surprised there’s only one Thorax left,” Spike says after Chrysalis and Princess Twilight explain to me what happened to Equestria’s Thorax. With my journal on-hand I give the two a big hug. “If leadership works like I think it does here compared to in Equestria, Thorax might be the superintendent your school needs. Our Spitfire is still leader of the Wonderbolts while yours got arrested. I can see the same logic applying both ways.” I beam. “Thanks, Twilight. I really hope we get to meet again soon. There is always next weekend after all.” “Same here, Sunset.” Princess Twilight wraps her right arm around me. “Queen Chrysalis and I should be getting back now. Be sure to check your journal tonight. I might send you an update on Aita’s situation.” Everyone starts waving and cheering their farewells as Princess Twilight and Chrysalis go through the mirror. For Applejack, hers was a “keep a chin-up” remark. And Rarity’s was, “and say hi to our counterparts for us.” But that’s all I can distinguish. After everyone’s calmed down, I think for a second. Where do we go now? Another hangout session, that’s what we’ll do. We sure could use it after yesterday and today. We already did the park for the cookout. The fair isn’t open yet, so that’s a no-go. I can’t really afford a cruise yet. Maybe some good old-fashioned entertainment. “So, how about a trip to the arcade? I hear there’s a Tirek game coming out. That ought to get our minds off of school until Tuesday.” “Ooh, how about we sign up to do a live performance there?” Rainbow Dash suggests. “I hear Applejack made a real banger.” “Aw, I thought you’d never ask.” “And what about the outfits?” Rarity asks. Twilight smiles, slowly waving her hand, then gives us all a thumbs up. “I don’t think it matters what we wear, just as long as we look good playing.” Fluttershy is left blushing in the excitement. “And we’ll make sure our instruments are at peak performance, right?” Everyone else nods. “YEAH! RAINBOOMS PARTY TIME!!” Pinkie Pie shouts excitedly. “Then we put it in there everybody! Ready?” Rainbow Dash rallies, putting her right hand out palm down. The rest of us join in. “1, 2, 3…” “Go Rainbooms!” Everyone shouts as they left each hand into the air. We all break to go home and get our instruments tuned and ready for the arcade. On my way home, I think of how this weekend has gone, from the cookout to hanging out with Aita and everything inbetween. Monday is called off now due to the superintendent incident, which just means we have more time to relax now that everything is quiet again. I just hope it stays that way for a while so that I can visit Twilight more. I see that there’s some mail, which I take in as I enter my house. Author's Note 9/18/22 The reason this is still incomplete is because of a song I'm making for this work. I don't quite have a name for it, but the chorus is all lyrically finished. It's probably not gonna be until next week before I post the last chapter, but if I do get a comment on my latest video [Journey by Jack Getschman on GBC], I'll be able to post the song right away if it's complete. 9/24/22 Looking at this chapter, this seems to've wrapped everything up on its own. Looks like I won't be needing the arcade performance scene. Here's hoping for a new story. I got a new idea involving someone that could've had a lot of potential in-show, being the sibling to a former king.
