The Trauma Within

Chapter 2: Morning Thoughts

As the sun rose over the lush Pacific Northwest landscape, the majestic mountain watched like a guardian angel over the valleys below. Big Mac opened his eyes before reaching for his phone on the small table beside him. he looked at his phone before slowly getting out of bed, beginning his morning routine.

After, He walked downstairs, and when he got there his eyes grazed to the left as he noticed his little sister had forgotten to pick up her toys, small horses, and dolls on the gray carpet. But he paid little mind to it as he walked into the kitchen and set about preparing for breakfast.

Applejack slowly turned in her sleep before gently wrapping herself around her dark blue pillow, slowly her eyes blinked around four times before seeing the first light of day. She was used to it however as school combined with farm work had helped her body get used to it. She then reached for her phone, pressed messages, and found one from Rarity

“I forgot I have to go out today. Fuck man I don’t wanna get out of bed right now but I promised her, why the fuck did I do that knowing I wanted to chill today.” Said Applejack softly. Although she initially seemed reluctant as she got out of bed slower than normally, she was determined to keep her promise, no matter how foolish it may have been.

She stretched before slowly walking to the bathroom. There, she grabbed some toothpaste and began her morning routine while gazing at her reflection in the mirror. After thoroughly brushing her teeth and washing her mouth, she grabbed a towel and unclothed before stepping into the shower.

She grabbed a bottle before pouring a little bit of liquid and started massaging her hair as the liquid spread across her scalp. She grabbed a red brush before washing and brushing her hair. After this was another few minutes of just relaxing as the hot water ran like a waterfall, flowing down her skin like multiple small rivers before stepping out.

After drying off with a yellow towel, I put on a pair of blue shorts and a green shirt, completing the outfit with the usual women's attire.

She then came out of the bathroom, closing the door before slowly walking down the small hallway leading towards the stairs. As she slowly walked down the stairs, she couldn't shake the haunting images. "I still feel like I could have saved them that day," she thought if only I had been quicker." The memories had persisted -visions that reminded her of how she failed that day. She tried to remain strong. She even managed a small smile as she watched Big Mac making breakfast.

"Good morning, sis," Big Mac said before he asked. "Did you sleep well?"

Applejack spoke in a tired, dejected tone, "I've been having them, for the fifth time tonight now but my sleep wasn’t too bad"

"Big Mac chuckled, 'I certainly hope they weren't about my cooking. You know I always make a delicious breakfast.'"

Applejack chuckled in agreement, acknowledging that her brother was right. "You're correct," she said.

"It's good to see you're starting to feel a little better already," said Big Mac.

Big Mac continued. "Don't worry, I think your mood will improve even more when you visit them later today. I heard Rarity is covering the cost of your trip. plus some card games for you and the girls to enjoy. Plus, Sunset is bringing her game console, so you'll have plenty to keep you entertained. I'm sure you'll all have a wonderful time.”

Applejack spoke in a nervous, sorrowful tone. "It's kind of Rarity to offer, but I'm not sure about this. I've been there with the others before, so it wouldn't be too strange. I guess I'll go, but I hope my mind can stay quiet.

"Don't worry, just relax for today," said Big Mac. "Breakfast will be ready soon.

"Since I've already showered, is there any point in doing chores on the farm, unless the chickens haven't been fed yet?" Applejack asked.

Big Mac assured, "I fed them yesterday and will feed them again today."

"Alright, I'm going to relax until it's time to leave," said Applejack. "Just let me know if there's anything you need me to do before we go."

"Rarity is seriously a true blessing for all of us," said Big Mac. "Many wealthy individuals would simply abandon us to fend for ourselves. But Rarity is different. Not only is she your devoted friend, but she has also been supporting our family business by providing additional funds to improve our Apple operations. Her genuine care and generosity have made all the difference."

Applejack spoke in a thankful tone as she expressed, "I'm very grateful that she is one of my closest friends and has been such a good support for us."

"Yup! Anyhow breakfast is ready!" Big Mac announced. "Would you like some Applejack?"

"I would love some breakfast," Applejack replied in a gentle tone.

Applebloom then came downstairs, having woken up just a few minutes earlier.

Overjoyed, she rushed to her sister and wrapped her in a big, happy hug, giggling with delight. Applejack smiled and hugged back, then gently lifted her and placed her in a chair at the dining room table. Around the same time, Granny Smith emerged from her room, looking as spry and healthy as ever.

"Good morning, apples!" Granny Smith greeted in her classic Southern drawl. "Lovely to see you all awake so early."

"Good morning, Granny!" They chimed in unison, their voices brimming with cheer.

Granny Smith asked warmly, "Good morning, how are we all doing today?"

"I'm doing okay, Granny," Applejack replied. "Just had some bad sleep, but nothing to worry about."

Big Mac offered, "I just finished making some breakfast if you'd like some, Granny."

"Oh, of course, sweetheart!" Granny Smith said gratefully as she took a seat at the dining room table.

Big Mac prepared plates for them before gently placing the plates on the table, it looked delicious, featuring smoked bacon, sausage, blueberries, and cooked apples, along with a cup of their cider for each person. Big Mac then sat down, and the family began eating. As they ate, they engaged in their typical mealtime conversation, discussing the farm and other everyday matters.

Sunset’s Shimmer Apartment: 7:29 am

That morning, Sunset Shimmer slowly started to wake as she gently grabbed her plush panda before she slowly opened her eyes. She looked at her purple iPhone, staring at the blue-white pattern screen saw that it was 7:30 am. Then she put in her passcode before seeing two notifications on her messages. One was from Rarity, the other one was from Fluttershy.

She slowly then got out of bed. She smiled a bit as all she could hear was just herself taking slow steps toward the bathroom, she hoped it might be a relatively good day. Sunset followed her usual routine before she slowly walked into the kitchen preparing to make some breakfast.

As she quickly checked her phone, her eyes spotted a photo of Fluttershy hugging her while she was wearing a light gray coat with a T-shirt and a black pair of pants. Fluttershy with her white shirt and green skirt while holding a small baby gold fish in a fish bowl. Sunset briefly smiled remembering Fluttershy's angelic like kindness.

Sunset then retrieved some sausage and eggs from the fridge to cook. Sunset's eyes glazed over before grabbing the knife before her eyes suddenly widened, and her pupils got smaller. Her hands started to tremble before reaching for the right side of her head suddenly she flinched in self-defense. Suddenly liquid started to drip on the floor. She shook her head which helped her snap out of it before her eyes looked at her arm.

She gasped. Her hands trembling in reaction to what she saw. “Shit.” before running into the bathroom, opening her bottom cabinet, and grabbing a small box with a plus label. Sunset then reached for the handle before directing it up causing water to begin to flow out. Sunset then put her arm in the warm water, then she reached for her bar soap, a bottle had a black label before starting to clean the wound. Her eyes closed tight a few times while she gave a small wincing noise. Then she applied some material on her arm before her eyes stared into the mirror.

Tears slowly trickled down as she gazed at the sink. Her eyes then looked at at the mirror and for a minute she breathed in and out to calm down the chaos running through her mind. She then walked out of the bathroom before slowly walking back into the kitchen.

She placed a pan on the stove, then cracked three eggs and added sausage to it. After five minutes, she turned off the heat, plated the cooked meal, and poured a glass of sweet tea from the fridge. Carrying her breakfast, she slowly walked to the couch, sat down, and reached for the remote to turn on the TV.

She grabbed her phone to make a alarm so that way she would remember when to leave the apartment to go meet Fluttershy so they could drive towards Rarity’s mansion then towards Elbe.

Location: Rarity's Mansion

Rarity had already woken up at 7 am. After making breakfast, she texted Fluttershy to let her know that she and Sweetie Belle would be staying at Alder Lake. There was no point in going to Orting since Rarity wouldn't be able to make it back if they had to leave early or in an emergency.

In her fashion room, Rarity was finishing the new swimsuits for the other girls. They already had old swimsuits from previous beach trips but Rarity wanted to make some new, fancy ones for this trip.

Rarity heard a yawning noise from the hallway and smiled, knowing that her sister had woken up. She got up from her chair and walked to the hallway, where she saw Sweetie Belle heading downstairs.

"Good morning, sis!" Sweetie Belle said cheerfully.

"Good morning!" Rarity replied. "How was your sleep last night?"

"It was great!" Sweetie Belle responded. "Are we going to Orting to see Fluttershy and Sunset Shimmer, or are we staying here today?"

"Since I cannot leave my vehicle at Orting, Fluttershy will retrieve Sunset Shimmer, and then they will drive to my mansion before we all go to Elbe. Big Mac will meet us there and take you back to Sweet Apple Acres, so you and Applebloom can enjoy a one or two-night stay.” said Rarity.

She continued as she asked. ”Did you follow my directions and get both school supplies and clothes for your time over there and for school on Monday?"

Sweetie Bell replied in a happy, excited tone, "Yes, sis! I put everything in my backpack just like you asked me too!”

Rarity spoke in a calm tone, "Good! Then all you need to do is change your clothes. I'll make you some breakfast while we wait for her. I also need to call her to make sure she can come over."

Sweetie Belle replied enthusiastically, "Alright!" She then went to dress in preparation for them to arrive. She walked into her dressing room, She picked an outfit with small blue gems sparkling on her dress surrounded by an ocean of pink. Then she grabbed a necklace with a red heart at the front then two diamond earrings.

The other clothes were gray shorts and a violet shirt with small blue diamond shapes. She then got a pair of blue high heels with small rose shapes that were golden in color. Then she got some blue tennis shoes to finish getting ready. She put on her normal clothes before getting a dark blue fashion bag, unzipped it, and gently put the outfit in before closing it.

She wanted to have the new swimsuits ready so they could all relax comfortably this evening. This would be Applejack's and Sunset Shimmer's first time which made Rarity even more excited. Rather than calling Fluttershy right away, Rarity decided to text her first to see if she was awake before continuing to work on the swimsuits.

At 9:00 am, Rarity had finally finished sewing the swimsuits. She carefully placed them in a well-organized pink bag before gathering the rest of her supplies and heading downstairs. In the dining room, she set the handbag on a chair before going to the kitchen to make breakfast.

In the kitchen, Rarity gathered potatoes, spices like black pepper, garlic, ginger, and lime, as well as spinach and eggs. She put a bit of oil and the spices in a mixing bowl, then washed, peeled, and cut the potatoes. mixed everything well, and turned on the stove. Around Twelve minutes later, just as Rarity started cooking, a joyful Sweetie Belle arrived in the kitchen.

Sweetie Belle spoke with excitement, "I've finished packing my things for when Fluttershy comes to pick us up!"

"Breakfast will be ready in about twelve minutes, darling," Rarity said in a gentle tone, gently booping her nose. "Let me finish up, and then we can go over everything to make sure you haven't missed anything, alright?"

Sweetie Bell giggled as she said, "Okay, sis!"

Rarity finished cooking breakfast at 9:30 AM and called Sweetie Belle to join her at the dinner table. Sweetie Belle hurried to the table and sat down carefully, then picked up her fork and began eating, savoring the flavorful spices that brought the meal to life. As Rarity sat down to enjoy the breakfast she had prepared

Sweetie Belle asked with concern, "Are you okay, Rarity? You've seemed nervous ever since last night." Rarity was often anxious over her designs or arguments with Applejack about materials, but her mood seemed off-center today.

Rarity responded. "I'm just somewhat worried about Applejack. I heard she wasn’t doing well recently.”

Sweetie Belle spoke with concern, "I know Applejack has never been the most mentally stable. I remember one-time Applebloom had to go to therapy after almost witnessing something with her sister that I'm not sure how to explain."

Rarity spoke with a concerned tone, "Darling, Is there something you are hiding something important for me to know about Applejack? If there is I need to know,”

“That’s for you to ask her, all I know is that Applebloom is worried for her.” Said Sweetie Bell.

Rarity spoke with a concerned tone, "I hope whatever is troubling her dissipates when we all get together later."

Sweetie Belle said cheerfully, "I hope her mood is sure to improve quickly, faster than a speeding train, now that you're here to cheer her up. But sometimes there are things you don’t understand about what someone else is thinking.

Rarity smiled gently as she said, "Thanks, Sweetie Belle, for someone so young, you're quite smart and know just how to cheer me up."

“Well, I mean when you are around someone as smart as you! You pick up a thing or two,” said Sweetie Belle.

Both of them then move their hands and put them together in a love heart. Both winked before chuckling a bit. “I appreciate the compliment darling, you will eventually outsmart me in fashion because you have better potential, I am just a starting stone for the future. Just like Applebloom is with her sister. said Rarity.

“You think i’m going to outsmart you in fashion? You're made for fashion!” said Sweetie Belle in a surprised manner.

“I didn’t do it alone though. Sunset and the recent apple harvests have been helping people see the designs that I have created. What I am saying is that every business needs assistance to support itself on a foundation. Trust is a powerful weapon in society. So if you have people who are loyal to you, do not break them. trust and friendship are not about how differences spread us apart but about how you can make a connection and then use it to strengthen your ally.” said Rarity.

“Do you think the new generation is going to take a lead in the fashion business?.” Asked Sweetie Belle.

“It depends darling! Who knows what type of fashion designs I will be helping or doing in twenty years, but I am excited about it,” said Rarity.

“Me too! Who knows how much progress we could achieve in that time,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Don’t rush it now, it’s one day at a time. Progress is never just left, right, and center, sometimes you have to take bumpy paths to be successful,” said Rarity.

“It’s good that you have support from multiple angles of assistance right? Asked Sweetie Bell before continuing. “Having to draw your outfits before getting the resources like cloth or small pieces of diamond’s to design them for different people and cultures seems like it’s very difficult unless you have support.” said Sweetie Belle.

"Precisely, my dear," Rarity responded. "Successful design is part of a careful, balanced system. You can't simply create something random; you must study what people like and the cultural influences that drive their fashion preferences. But in order to achieve that you need multiple views, pieces of advice to help you understand the differences.”

“I see what your saying now, your basically saying that without people to help gain data, resources and help, Your chances of success are a lot lower.” said Sweetie Belle.

“Exactly! You learn very quickly for such a young lady.” said Rarity.

She finally finished her good before walking towards the sink, gently putting her plate away. “Thank you for the breakfast! After you finish eating could you look at my backpack, just in case I left anything?,” asked Sweetie Belle.

“Sure! Just give me five minutes. Make sure you put the plate in the sink so I can wash them okay?” said Rarity.

“Okay!” said Sweetie Belle while getting up from the chair before putting the plate in the sink. Afterward, she walked out of the dining room and grabbed her pink backpack. Rarity finished her breakfast before washing the two plates, walked into the living room before she and her sister checked for any supplies that she missed.

Afterward, Rarity went upstairs and walked into her fashion room before sitting down on the dark blue couch, turned on her computer before working on the website. Her sister stayed downstairs to play with some Barbie dolls.

Fluttershy’s house: 8:30 AM

She typically woke up early in the morning- around 6:00 AM, to enjoy the early morning weather while tending to her garden. However, on that particular day, she was surprised to find herself sleeping in until 8:30 AM.

She slowly opened her eyes before stretching and yawning. She steadily got out of bed before starting her usual morning routine. Showering, caring for her hair, and selecting her outfits for the day.

She chose one set of clothes for the 45-minute drive to Elbe-shirt with a baby bunny on the front and some blue shorts which she would wear when she would have to drive to Rarity's mansion”,” then to Elbe”,” and then back either to her mansion or home.

Fluttershy grabbed another outfit out of the closet that she had picked out to wear after the spa visit”,” which was a red shirt with a blue skirt”,” but she kept it as a backup. Rarity likely already made some designs for her to try.

Though Fluttershy loved fashion and being organized, she didn’t like when she stood out from the rest”,” so she tended toward more normal clothes rather than overtly sexy ensembles that Rarity loved to wear.

Fluttershy then walked gradually from her bedroom to the kitchen, retrieved two carrots before closing the fridge, and walked two steps before turning on the water and rinsing them off.

She then grabbed a small bowl, filled it up with water before turning the water off, and walked leisurely to the little house that she made for Angel Bunny”,” then bent down before giving it to the bunny. Interestingly, when Fluttershy touched the water, it became even more pristine, almost as pure as the first untainted ocean water formed billions of years ago.

“There you go, Angel! There is your breakfast,” said Fluttershy, sitting down before putting it gently.

“Thank you for the carrot!” Said Angel Bunny. It approached her then hopped on her lap, gently laying down in a fluff position, then started to munch on the carrot.

“No problem, you are so adorable!” said Fluttershy.

“I am not adorable!.” said Angel Bunny, while annoyed.

“Yes, you are! You are my favorite little bunny,” said Fluttershy.

Angel bunny's animal instincts of feeling pheromone changes, telling it about Fluttershy’s anxiety and stress along with a small tremble when her hand rotated around to pet him. In response, he cuddled her gently before asking.

“Why are you stressed? I’m not going to bite you or anything,” asked Angel Bunny.

“It’s not you. I am just scared of something you wouldn’t understand. Thank you for asking.” said Fluttershy giving a small smile.

“Whatever is wrong, don’t worry about it too much! You likely can solve it like you girls normally do,” said Angel Bunny, and then it started to munch on carrots again.

Fluttershy then gently put it down having tended to her beloved bunny, she walked at a slow pace back to the kitchen. There”,” she gently grabbed the pan and filled it up with water before putting it on the stove. She opened her cabinet and got two vanilla tea bags, turning on the stove and waiting for the water to boil.

Once the water started to boil she gently put the two vanilla tea bags into the pot and took two steps before sitting in a chair and waiting for the tea to finish. She reached for her phone and her eyes spotted a text message from Rarity.

Alert: Message from Rarity: "I won't be able to meet you at Orting. So could you please drive Sunset Shimmer and go to the store? Can you pick up some snacks, two boxes of chocolate, one large soda, and two large bottles of water? I'll ask Applejack to bring some cider for us! Thank you, darling!”

Her eyes widened and she thought her heart skipped a beat. Her cheeks flushed and her words stuttered as she said, "Oh wait, does that mean I'll be alone with Sunset for 40 minutes or more?"

Her eyes then gently closed before her cheeks started to turn red. She quickly opened her eyes again before briefly letting out a small scream. She got up and walked towards the kitchen”,” where she reached for a small cup before getting the pot handle and pouring the tea into her small cup that looked like a flower with some green stripes.

Then, she sat down, taking 20 minutes to check for any missed schoolwork while sipping her tea. She had a speaker turned on which was playing some nature music. She went outside to take care of her garden.

Sweet Apple Acres: 10:00 AM

As they waited for the green light to depart, they tended to several tasks. First, they checked on the apple trees, as the harvest season was rapidly approaching. Next, they cleaned and prepared the playhouse near the house, ensuring Sweetie Belle and Applebloom could play safely without risk of injury. Finally, Applejack gathered her necessary supplies, including vitamins, two days' worth of clothes, and her school outfit, before lying back down on her bed to patiently await the time to leave.

Applejack was pondering the recent clues., Rainbow Dash was practicing soccer with her sister. Sci-Twi was studying hard for a test. Like she understood Pinkie Pie couldn’t because of work but it seemed odd to not invite the other two, as she considered these details, she heard a knock at her door before responding, "Come in."

Applebloom slowly open the door and asked her t how long Sweetie Belle would be staying. Applejack responded, "Two days, I'm pretty sure."

Applebloom knew her sister had some issues , she hoped a visit from Rarity might lift Applejack's mood. She walked to her before giving a hug.

“Sis. I know your thinking a lot but you know it wasn’t your fault. You were too young to do anything alright?” Said Applebloom.

Applejack then got up from the bed before walking to the mirror. She glazed at it before a small tear went down her cheek as she remembered it again. Applebloom went to give her another big hug.
“Just focus on being positive. You got this.”

Applejack sighed. “Your right I just got to breathe. Imma go help him downstairs alright?”

Applebloom spoke confidently, "You've got this. Never give up!"

Applejack placed her hand on her shoulder and said, "Thanks, sugar cube. You're a big help, you know that?"

They hugged while her sister wiped the small amount of tears running down on her face, then both of them walked down the small hallway before doing downstairs. She opened the front door to help Big Mac fix the playhouse.

Sunset’s Apartment: 10:30 AM

Sunset Shimmer dressed in an uncharacteristic outfit as she prepared to meet her four close friends. Though she normally wouldn't wear such an ensemble, she felt comfortable doing so in their company.

Before leaving, she glanced around her bedroom, briefly recalling the first aid supplies she kept there from accidents, a painful reminder of how much she had once hated herself. Feeling a few tears well up, she gently packed her gaming console in her blue backpack, knowing Rarity had a large TV they could use.

Checking the weather forecast to ensure it wouldn't rain, Sunset took a deep breath, locked her apartment, Walked slow heavy steps downstairs before stepping outside. Given the short distance to Fluttershy's house, Sunset thought of driving at first until she started to stare nervously as she slowly took deep breaths. She opted to walk rather than drive her car.

Putting on a fake smile while thinking, "Who would help me anyway?" Occasionally, she wished that she didn’t exist, but she couldn't bear the thought of the girls having to witness or clean up the aftermath. Instead of going straight to Fluttershy's, she headed to the bakery where Pinkie Pie worked. Ten minutes later, Pinkie Pie noticed her enter the bakery and greeted her with a smile.

With her usual bubbly enthusiasm, Pinkie Pie greeted Sunset, "Hi, Sunset! What a surprise to see you here. Would you like one of our special items, or would you prefer something simple but delicious?"

Sunset Shimmer asked, "May I please have a few croissants?"

Pinkie Pie leaned in and whispered, "I'd love to give them to you for free, but you know the customers would be pretty upset if I did that."

Sunset Shimmer asked with a small smile, "I always pay full price because I'm not more special than anyone else. Wouldn't that be unfair?"

Pinkie Pie spoke with boundless enthusiasm, "Not at all! Give me about two minutes to get them, and don't do anything silly!"

Sunset Shimmer waited patiently, unaware that part of her arm was exposed, revealing red and pink lines that went across multiple parts of her right arm, after two minutes, Pinkie Pie handed her the croissants, and Sunset paid for them. Though she maintained a cheerful facade as she left, her expression soon shifted to one of rare sadness, goosebumps were felt throughout her body as nervousness took over.

Despite her typically upbeat demeanor, she recognized the signs that something was wrong . Eager to notify the other girls, Pinkie made a note in her phone, but the busy bakery kept her occupied. Fifteen minutes later, Sunset Shimmer took a deep breath as she arrived at Fluttershy's.

At 10:26 AM, Fluttershy opened the door and saw Sunset wearing a T-shirt with some black pants , ,her heart raced like a guitar solo as she attempted to greet her calmly and naturally. As she welcomed her inside, she couldn't help but admire the other girl's beauty.

Sunset Shimmer approached Fluttershy, a hint of nervousness in her voice. "I hope you don't mind that I'm a little early. I know we need to leave at eleven, and I didn't want to be late." She was anxious about showing weakness.

Fluttershy responded warmly, "Not at all. In fact, would you like a quick cup of tea before we head out?"

"Thank you, but I'm all set," Sunset Shimmer replied. She paused, then added, "I hope my outfit is okay too."

"Fluttershy’s cheeks lightly went red as she admired Sunset's stylish outfit. 'Oh, Sunset! When did you get these good-looking clothes?' she asked in a surprised tone. 'You look even better than me, and I've been taking lessons from Rarity!'"

"Oh, it was nothing. I just thought I could use some spice today," Sunset Shimmer said.

"By the way, did you bring the console? I want to play that nature game again!" Fluttershy asked cheerfully.

"Yes, I did. Don't worry. I also found this new game called Minecraft where multiple people can play multiplayer. You can build and survive, and it's a lot of fun!" Sunset Shimmer replied.

"Ooh, we could all try that! It sounds very fun! I'm about to go to the store before we leave for Elbe. Do you want to come with me to get some snacks and stuff?" Fluttershy said, blushing slightly as she moved her hair out of her face.

"Sure, I wouldn't mind at all. If you're ready, we could go in a minute, but I do want to visit one little creature," Sunset said, pointing to Angel Bunny.

"Oh, well, sure! Let's get this little cutie pie," Fluttershy said in a gentle voice.

Fluttershy went to get Angel Bunny and bring him to Sunset Shimmer. The bunny cutely hopped into Sunset's hands and snuggled a little. “Am I adorable enough for both of you?!” asked Angel Bunny making both of them laugh before Angel Bunny hopped back onto Fluttershy's lap.

“Yes you are Angel Bunny!” said Fluttershy.

"I'm expecting Sci-Twi to come and take care of Angel Bunny this evening, so I don't have to worry about you not being taken care of you cute bunny!”. said Fluttershy

“Yay! Have a good trip and don’t forget to buy more carrots!” said Angel Bunny.

“I won’t. See you later! Said Fluttershy, putting the bunny down.

Sunset never understood what the bunny was saying or how she could take to the cute little guy, her mind wondered before Fluttershy spoke. “Now, let's drive to the Safeway in Western Orting, shall we?" Fluttershy said, her cheeks a rosy hue as she grabbed her car and house keys.

"Sure, we've got to get going soon anyway!" Sunset Shimmer said, carrying a blue backpack.

Before leaving, Fluttershy locked the door and left a note for Sci-Twi, informing her of the secret emergency keys, one under the carpet and another in a marked hole next to a weed. Fluttershy and Sunset Shimmer then got into the car, with Fluttershy taking the driver's seat and Sunset sitting in the front passenger seat.

Fluttershy asked, "Do you remember the rhyme we used to get ready for driving on Sunset?"

“It’s the drive and safety run, start your trip with your seatbelt on! Nine and three is where you’ll be, Adjust your mirror to see things clearer! Check your little engine light to make sure your trip is alright!” Sang Fluttershy and Sunset Shimmer before both chuckled a little bit. Fluttershy carefully started the car and slowly pulled out of the driveway.

Sunset Shimmer discreetly checked that her arms were not visible, knowing she would be deeply concerned. After a five-minute drive, they arrived at the Safeway. Mindful of recent accidents at the short entrance, Fluttershy prudently used the longer entrance to avoid any risk. She then parked the car and turned off the engine.

Fluttershy asked, "Ready to go, Sunset?"

“Sure, just nervous about the amount of people that are likely gonna stare at me because they still think I am a monster. " Sunset Shimmer replied nervously.

Fluttershy placed a gentle hand on Sunset's shoulder. "I'm right here. You can trust me, I won't leave you in there. If I have to defend you I will," she said reassuringly.

"Thanks," Sunset Shimmer said. "Let's go."

Fluttershy and Sunset Shimmer exited the car. she briefly glanced at Sunset with a hint of a passionate gaze before Sunset could look back. The two then walked into the Safeway, grabbed a cart, then started walking together at a slow pace towards the first aisle where the drinks were. They only needed a few items, couple sodas and a few gallons of water.

Fluttershy went to get the sodas while Sunset grabbed two gallons of water, not wanting her to have to do everything. They gently placed the items in the cart and organized them before moving to the next aisle.

Fluttershy then grabbed four large bags of candy, two bags of chips. But not as many as expected since there would only be four people at the sleepover. Afterward, they went to get two boxes of chocolate, which Sunset guessed was to get energy, but she secretly wanted to share with Sunset as a gesture.

Having gathered Rarity's requested items for their upcoming trip, they headed to the checkout in the cramped store. As they stood nearby, she seemed unbothered, but her heart felt like a drum solo was playing within, when they reached the register, she was surprised to see Sunset retrieve her payment.

Fluttershy asked, "Sunset, why are you paying for it? You don't have to if you don't want to."

Sunset Shimmer gave Fluttershy a small smirk as she said, "Fluttershy, don't worry, I've got this. The Equestrian gods have blessed me that you're doing this for me, so let me repay you back for it."

Fluttershy asked hesitantly, "Thank you... Do I owe you any money back?"

Sunset Shimmer spoke in a gentle, thankful tone. "No, Fluttershy, you don't owe me anything. Even my demons are at ease, calmed by the kindness in your hearts. It is I who owes all of you a great debt for the chance I've been given."

Fluttershy's pulse slowed, and a bashful blush crept across her face as she said, "You know we're always here for you, Sunset. Thank you."

Sunset Shimmer nodded. "I know," she said.

After purchasing snacks and drinks, they walked to the parking lot underground and got into Fluttershy's car. She opened the trunk, placed a few items inside, and then they each got a small soda for the drive. Then closed and locked the trunk before getting into the passenger seat.

Once in the car, they put on their seatbelts and she started the vehicle. Within a minute, Fluttershy briefly parked to send a message to Applejack that they were on their way. Then Sunset took a deep breath and began the journey towards Rarity's Mansion.

During the drive, Fluttershy thought about what Sunset had said earlier, wondering if Sunset had a secret or if her mind was troubled by something. Before she could ask however she glanced at Sunset and saw her relaxed and asleep, which she found adorable. They would arrive at Rarity's in 40-45 minutes.

Sweet Apple Acres: 11:00 AM

Applejack received a text and gathered her belongings, including two cases of twelve apple cider bottles each. She carefully carried them downstairs as Big Mac prepared to unlock the door. Granny Smith, who loved telling Applebloom tales of pirates and other adventures, agreed to watch her. Big Mac opened the door, and Applejack loaded the cider into the trunk before they both got in the car. With everything ready, Applejack took a deep breath.

"Are you ready, Applejack?" Big Mac asked.

Applejack nodded. "Let's go," she said.

The group buckled up and slowly drove down Route 165 towards Orting. As they continued on the roads towards Alder Lake and the mansion , they contemplated the situation with Applejack and Sunset Shimmer, Rarity felt they needed time to slow down and enjoy life.

A concerning thought for Fluttershy but it wasn't an immediate worry, as Sunset was currently asleep. However, Rarity remained concerned. As she thought about how to best support her friends, Rarity did a final check to ensure she had enough money for all of them to enjoy a relaxing day, which she hoped would help calm their minds.