Sunset had attended the Grand Galloping Gala many times before, in her time as Celestia’s pupil, and it was never her kind of thing– Except of course, for the Powerful dignitaries ripe for kissing her hooves and begging for her adoration, which she had desired plentifully in the past. But now, she couldn’t feel more distant from these kinds of people.

The lighting of the party was lovely, dim chandeliers, purple torches, fluorescent crystals, the Gala was being held in another beautiful night.

And she didn’t care for any of it. She kept her back to a wall, away from the crowd, strategically near a snack table, eyes narrowed, scanning the crowd, more specifically keeping an eye on her Princess, Twilight Sparkle.

The Princess of Friendship was always cute– But there was a beauty that would come out in nights like these– Rarity had made a gorgeous blue dress adorned with glowing stars that flowed on her beautifully, and even combined with her wings with grace– All while her hair was in a loose bob, flowing well and true.

She was busy talking and socializing with several dignitaries, as a Princess should– At the very least Sunset could be thankful that this night would be formative for Twilight, no matter how excruciatingly boring it would be for the Paladin.

She didn’t care for the music, or the beauty, the lights, or what the night stood for. She didn’t even care for Celestia, who sat idly, atop tall stairs, watching over the party– Frequently, unmistakably, shooting a glance towards Sunset.

Her job was to keep the Princess safe, even if she was without armor. So she was going to sit here, enjoy a few snacks, and otherwise be as dutiful as ever.

Her mind wandered, even if unwillingly, as the music faded into the background, and she beheld the Princess of Friendship, in all her glory.

She could envision this, a thousand years from now. She knew she would never live to see it, but Twilight Sparkle, taller, somehow more beautiful, throwing parties much like these, leading all around her forward, higher, stronger, a golden age in Equestria.

And Sunset wouldn’t live to see it. She used that as a crutch, a helpful little prayer to be thankful for– That she would not live to see a mare living her dream, no matter how much that mare deserved it, no matter how much that mare was better than her.

It had to be good news, it had to be good enough.

And no matter what, at least Twilight was right for this.

Twilight was perfect for this.

Twilight was perfect.

“Sunset Shimmer.” A cold, yet caring familiar voice called from beside her, breaking her out of her trance.

Her ears twitched, and her attention was drawn– A small smile manifested on her lips, as she offered a hoof to be shaken. “Hey, Raven. You actually attend these Galas? Color me surprised.”

“On rare occasions.” Raven inkwell, Celestia’s aide and essentially secretary, continued to behave almost robotically, professionally, even at a gathering like this, as she shook Sunset’s hoof. The suit she wore was the only indicator she might be at a gala, after all, the tie was slightly more colorful than usual. “I’ve been told, on occasion, by the queen, to ‘cease the day’ as it were.” She sat near Sunset, but kept eyeing her.

“Good for you.” She nodded, sternly, suppressing a chuckle.

“Are you enjoying the party, Sunset Shimmer?” She tilted her head, with analytical, tired old eyes.

Now that was a riot, and she couldn’t help but grin. “Since when do you do small talk?”

“You are right.” She exhaled, shaking her head lightly. “I am here for a specific purpose. I am here… To warn you.”

Sunset’s ears twitched, and her tail flicked, with her smiling involuntarily. “Oh please tell me something is going to crash this party. Please tell me there’s changelings in the crowd, or an incoming attack from a wild mythological ancient beast– Or that maybe the forces of the moon are finally coming down for a proper fight!”

Even Raven couldn’t help but smile, seeing the old Sunset shine through. “No, nothing of the sort, I assure you.”

Letting out an audible groan, Sunset rubbed her own temples in boredom. “You wouldn’t believe how boring this friggin gala is to me. I’m praying that some tragedy happens so I get to do something. Maybe break something.”

“I see your violent tendencies are still as sharp as ever.” The aide murmured, looking at the crowd, emotionless.

“Ouch.” Sunset chuckled, shrugging. “But yeah.”

After a bit of hesitation and thought, the aide finally spoke. “You know… There are still plenty of the staff here in the castle that are terrified of you. Others that simply do not care for you– After your rampage, three years ago. Are you aware of this?”

“Somewhat.” She frowned, exhaling; The glances that she was given on occasion while walking the castle were more than enough to tell. “I don’t blame any of them for it.”

“A few of the guards that still had scars from their battle with you… Transferred their posts with Shining Armor to the Crystal Empire, when Twilight Sparkle brought you back. A few of the caretakers are naturally still intimidated; There was this poor gardener too, I’ve forgotten her name… And I was lucky, that day, being able to place Celestia between you and myself…”

“I know it doesn’t mean anything for me to say this at this point…” Sunset beheld her with genuine shame. “...But I’m sorry.”

“I know you are.” Another, slight smile appeared on her lips. “Did you forget? I’ve watched you grow, most of your life, at least. When Celestia gave Twilight the mission of saving you– I was apprehensive… But I wanted that little foal back too.”

This time, she chuckled, genuinely. “Sorry to disappoint.”

“There are others that feel the opposite of that fear.” She affirmed, beholding the crowd. “Some who believe you do good here; I am among them. The previous Captain, above all, is thankful there is a warrior looking after his little sister when he cannot.”

“I’m not doing this for him.” Her eyes, like always, were focussed on the Princess.

“There are several of the staff that appreciate the work you do. Security has been… A concern. Yet you place yourself between the Princess and danger, every time. And we see that.” Pride in her voice was nearly imperceptible. “Your diligence is valued by many; The queen included.”

“Hm.” She affirmed with a hum, nearly saying ‘I’m not doing this for her.’ out loud.

She adjusted her glasses, with a sigh, having been through this before. “It is not my place to warn you– But I will, anyway. I believe it is right that you know that the Princesses and the Queens have all taken special interest in your future– Imminent and far. Your role here, and how it can be expanded.”

Her eyes involuntarily narrowed, scanning the crowd, looking at Twilight Sparkle; And right after, to Celestia, who continued to sit diligently atop the tall stairs. No, this wasn’t news, but she did not know its extent, and it still instigated a bit of internal anger from her– Once again, her life being written for her. And now that she was older, she didn’t believe in the text.

“I know.” She muttered, with a bare snarl.

Raven prepared herself to leave. “Then I suppose I only have one more thing to say; It is of my personal opinion that you should prioritize your own needs above others.”

She grinned involuntarily, examining the aide with amusement. “Raven, are you– Are you telling me to be selfish?”

“I am simply telling you to do what you think is right.” She stated simply, nodding. “I know you would do good here. But you have spent enough of your life following a script, have you not? It has been a pleasure, Sunset Shimmer.”

“That, it has. Goodbye, Raven.” She watched the old aide leave through the crowd, directing herself to the nearest private place away from the crowd– And she did not blame her. Maybe the old secretary really did just want to talk to her again.

And now she was alone, and the boredom quickly began sweeping in.

Raven’s words did make an impression. Sunset spent some time thinking them through, considering just what the advice meant.

Running away? Letting go? No longer subjecting herself to all these roles and responsibilities?

Or was it simply about staying true to personal desires?

She paid no more thought to it, and simply remained observing.

A few moments of idle snacking and thinking passed, until Twilight Sparkle approached her, with a tired, yet excited smile. “Oof! Being a Princess is tough. I wasn’t looking forward to this…!”

“Socializing?” Sunset smiled.

“Yes.” Twilight had a defeated look on her face, that did not make her any less beautiful or cute. “You wouldn’t believe how many of them are trying to kiss up to me; I got multiple offers of signing into causes I don’t know and seem shady, I got a dozen offers of participating in openings or unveilings or other assorted events that I don’t even understand, and I got two marriage proposals.”

Sunset blew air from her nostrils. “If any of them annoy you, just call me and I’ll throw them out, violently, if you want.”

“No violence needed! …Yet.” She stretched, huffing, pouting. “I never got any of these absurd ‘love proclamations’ before I was a princess… Just goes to show they’re only in it for the status…”

“Vultures.” Sunset spoke through gritted teeth. “Don’t let them peck at you. You’re better, and you deserve better.”

“I deserve better.” She repeated, looking at Sunset.

“And buckle up, Princess.” Sunset grinned, tilting her head. “The evening is just getting started.”

“Blergh.” Twilight began shaking herself off, getting a second wind. “I have to get back in there. Want to come with…?”

“Oh, I’ll leave the Princessing to you, thank you very much.” She snickered– The one upside for not being the Princess, no pointless conversations with royals; And above all, she wanted a comfortable distance from the beautiful Princess before her. “I’ve got a comfortable view of you from over here, and I’m keeping an eye out for threats. You should be good.”

“Threats?” She raised an eyebrow, looking around. “...It’s the Grand Galloping Gala. What could happen?”

“Oh, please keep saying that, so that some crisis will happen!!” The Paladin grinned wider, almost pleading. “My money is on a wyvern attacking the castle.”

“Pff, sure, sure. Hey, if something does happen, you and I can totally save the day! It would impress Celestia for sure!” She had a peppy smile, fluttering her wings with joy.

“Hah. As if you even need to impress her more.” Sunset shrugged. “But I’ve got your back, as usual.”

“And I’ll keep an eye out for you too!” She promised with a giggle. “Okay! Princessing resuming now! Wish me luck!”

“Wait.” She paused, stopping the Princess on her tracks, looking at her thoroughly. “...Rarity doesn’t miss, does she?”

“Huh? Miss what?” Twilight tilted her head.

“Your dress– Your hairdo. You look… Really really good.” She affirmed, with slight embarrassment; Suppressing a couple dozen words she could have said about Twilight’s appearance.

“O-oh! Thank you!” Her face reddened slightly. “You’re totally right! Rarity doesn’t miss at all. Like, um, it’s not often I get to see you without armor, so, um, you look really really good too.” Her eyes failed to meet Sunsets, they were instead inspecting her frame.

Sunset winced, after all, what she was wearing was a tight fiery suit and tie. “Yeah, I, uh… Think she might have made this tight on purpose.” She huffed, with a quiet groan.

“Really?” Twilight spoke absentmindedly, eyes fully on Sunset’s body.

The Paladin did not notice.

“Speaking of the ‘Princess’, is she around here?” She shot an absentminded glance at the crowd.

“O-oh! Yes she is!” Twilight snapped out of it, quickly unfurling her wings, almost knocking a full plate of snacks away. “If I see her around, I’ll tell her you said hi!”

“Sure.” The Paladin shrugged with a smile. “I wouldn’t mind ‘thanking’ her properly for this suit.”

“Then I’ll point her in your direction if I see her!” She grinned, peppy, and turned around. “Okay, okay, I’ve stalled enough. Back to Princessing!”

“Good luck.”

Sunset watched her carefully as she was swallowed by the crowd, then let out a sigh.

Alone again, bored again.

She tried not thinking of how much more fun she would have, being side by side with the Princess in these festivities.

Time passed, and the same routine continued.

Snacking, inspecting the crowd, waiting, hoping something would happen, and trying to avoid looking at Celestia.

Silently feeling both pride and envy over the Princess of Friendship.

“Sunset, darling!” A familiar unicorn approached with a kind smile from the crowd, bringing with her a glass of liquor. “You decided to wear my work after all, I see?”

“Not much choice.” She grumbled, shooting another glance towards the Queen. “By any chance, you didn’t make it this tight on purpose?”

“Perish the thought, darling.” She lied, taking a sip of her drink. “I believe it suits you just right!”

“You could have at least made it black.” Sunset grumbled, looking at the colors. Fiery tones such as orange red and white, complementing each other.

“Oh please; Black is a little dark for festivities such as these, don’t you think? It may suit your whole tough paladin look, but I wanted to give you something different. Next time I’m going with all shades of white!”

“I like black.” She mumbled, annoyed. “Ugh. Well, this is better than a dress, at least.” She muttered, with a shrug. Then slowly, she turned with an almost malicious grin towards the unicorn. “So, how are you enjoying your first Grand Galloping Gala, ‘princess’?”

“If you’re going to say it like that, why even say it?” She huffed, pouting. “Rude!”

“Sorry, heh.” She shrugged again, grinning. “You know, some would say it's blasphemous for you to call yourself a Princess when you’re not royalty and don’t have wings. I just think it’s funny.”

“You’re one to talk, miss ‘failed pupil’!” She huffed again. “At least I'm trying!”

“Twilight already beat us to it.” She spoke without energy, exhaling. “If you ask me, you’re wasting your time.”

“Oh please. A mare can dream, can’t she? I’m not giving up. This first Grand Galloping Gala is only another step–” She said, sighing dreamily, looking at nothing, and began moving her own dress in a dancing pattern. “Expanding my business, making myself known far and wide is all part of the process! Can you imagine me, sporting a pair of beautiful wings? My, I would be positively dazzling!”

Sunset did try to imagine it. Rarity was indeed beautiful, and her sense of fashion was both forward, and malleable– She had an impeccable presence, and knew how to socialize at galas, likely even better than Twilight. That, at least, fit the qualities of a Princess.

But she wasn’t worthy– She didn’t have what it took to rule a kingdom, she didn’t have impeccable studious nature, and she didn’t have the strength to combat mythical beasts, much less fight demigods, a fact that Sunset was not blind to.

“Again… Twilight beat us to it. The world doesn’t need more alicorns.” She had no energy in her voice.

“It is not about need, darling. It is about reaching to the heavens and claiming the highest stars! Surely, you must have felt similar, when you were a pupil of Celestia?”

The imagery in her head was always vivid, since a young age. She would spread her wings wide, she would glow like the sun, and she would soar, feeling the wind in her face, unbound, unbeaten, unrestrained. There would be nothing above, or beneath, she would be truly free.

The little orphan that came from nowhere, reaching higher than anybody else ever had.

“...I was in it for power and status.” It was a shallow lie by omission.

“...Beauty and status.” It was the very same. A gross simplification.

They both remained silent for a moment, beholding the party.

But truly, they were looking at the princess of Friendship, and Sunset pointed at her covertly. “...If you look at Twilight for even a second, you’ll know why neither of us have what it takes.”

Rarity brought the drink to her lips, after letting out a sigh of disappointment. “...I am happy for her, I truly am– But I must admit, in all of the time I’ve known her, I never expected her to become a Princess…!”

“Don’t underestimate her.” Sunset spoke sternly, keeping her gaze on the Princess.

The other ‘princess’ had to do her absolute best to not be openly jealous. “She was always so… Short sighted! Incredibly intelligent, yes, her head is too big for her own good, but my goodness, she was never ambitious.”

“I think the word you’re looking for is humble.” The Paladin affirmed strongly.

“Y-yes. I suppose so.” And there it was, one of the principal reasons why the Princess of Friendship was better than all of them.

Sunset’s vision unfocused, as she exhaled. “...I try not to worry about it. Equestria is in good hooves– It doesn’t matter if ponies like us never made it– Twilight did… And that’s enough. It has to be.”

“Speak for yourself! I am not done yet. I am strongly, fiercely considering my next step– And reaching high class establishments like these is only the beginning!!” The seamstress demonstrated true determination. “You will see me shining brighter than anypony else yet. I intend to marry royalty– Uplift myself even higher.”

“Goldigger, huh? No shame in it– We all have to do what we can to live.” Sunset snickered, shrugging, deviously pointing to the target. “Celestia is a bachelor, by the way. Single as can be. Want to shoot your shot?” She jokingly taunted, raising an eyebrow, deeply amused at the idea.

“Bah!” Rarity groaned and scoffed. “I am not foolish enough to reach that high, darling. B-besides, I am a bit too nervous to meet her truly for the first time, I’d like to make the best of first impressions– And I imagine the Queen of the Sun does not have time for silly things like romance or family.”

But she had made time to raise a daughter. Sunset tried averting her thoughts from the matter.

“I mean, just saying, if you are a golddigger…”

“Do not think lowly of me… I genuinely do wish to marry a strong, handsome, honest and kind Prince…” An earnest, excited smile perked on her lips. “True love awaits me, I just know it!”

“Sure.” Sunset had to contain herself from snickering at Rarity’s expense.

“Of course you do not believe in true love.” The seamstress pouted with annoyance. “Why am I not surprised?”

“You can believe whatever you want– I just think you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.” She took another snack, chewing on it absentmindedly. “If you’re looking for love, you won't find it among these stuffy jerks.”

“Dream a little, darling.” She pouted, shrugging. “Dreaming has never done me wrong. What is so bad about hoping for something better? What is so bad about hoping you have a destiny to fulfill…?”

“The disappointment of being proven that you have no destiny.” Spoken from personal experience. “Trust in yourself and what you can do– Don’t hope for a special somepony to swoop in and save you.”

“My goodness, does it ever get tiring, the dark paladin routine? Do you not have anything you desire?” She rolled her eyes, taking another sip of her drink.

“Life taught me thoroughly that what I want never mattered.” She replied through gritted teeth.

“Your view on life is dreadfully miopic, darling.” The seamstress rolled her eyes, scoffing. “You sound like a broken record. Open your eyes, and maybe you’ll find that you have a place in the world.”

“I–” Sunset had no retort, she just grimaced in misplaced annoyance, then mumbled to herself angrily.

Rarity scanned the paladin with her gaze, amused on having left her speechless taking a devious swig of her glass.

Curiosity got the better of her, and she decided to pry further. “How about you, darling? How is your love life doing?”

Sunset nearly laughed at the mere suggestion. “Ppf. Nothing worth mentioning. I was actually going to ask if you wanted to go for a one-night stand.”

"E-excuse me?!"

"What? You're really beautiful, and I'm bored as shit." She shrugged earnestly.

With eyes widened and face reddened, Rarity stammered in anger. “Y-you! You unfaithful, treacherous blackheart!!”

“What?”

With that same anger, the seamstress took what remained of her drink, and tossed it at Sunset’s face, and the paladin dodged it easily, simply tilting her head. The drink flew wild, bathing a few of the snacks on a table, with the rest landing on a royal, who immediately complained.

And neither of the two cared– Rarity was still reeling in anger, flustered. “Twilight Sparkle is right there, and you so openly, so callously suggest cheating on her?!”

Now Sunset was taken back, her face reddened with the misunderstanding. “What the fuck are you talking about– Me and Twilight are NOT a couple?!” Her eyes shot around them, with several royals sneering in annoyance at the shouting match.

“Huh.” Rarity blinked twice, in confusion. “You are not?”

“No!” She responded nervously, shooting glances around them.

“Well, don’t I look like a fool…!” The seamstress fidgeted embarrassingly. “It seemed clear as day to me…?”

“Why in Tartarus would you even think that?!” She barked with a blush.

“Well excuse me.” The seamstress pouted, huffing. “You are a big, strong bodyguard Paladin, who pledged yourself to be by her side always; You protect her at every turn, and she only ever speaks highly of you!”

“T-that’s just my job!” The fluster remained.

“Does your job also entail you staring at her every single waking moment of this gala? Admiring my handiwork, I see?” She teased with a raised eyebrow.

“I’m keeping an eye on her because it’s my job!!” She repeated angrily, still flustered.

“And there you were, going on about how there is no hope or destiny– with that kind of talk, why else would you remain close to somepony who believes in it so thoroughly? My, I figured you were right besides her because you completed each other! Because she gave you purpose!”

She was right on the money. “You’re painfully wrong!” And the fluster remained.

“Sure, sure– And right after I gave you both plenty of eye candy for each other! What a waste of my work!” She shook her head in annoyance.

“So you DID make this suit tight on purpose!” She complained, rubbing her temples. “Damnit, you–”

“Um, excuse me, Sunset? Why are you two fighting?” Twilight had walked over to them, drawn to the annoyance of their fuss, and they hadn’t noticed.

Eyes widened, awkward smiles, and averting proximity, they both shamefully groaned.

Sunset was the first to make an excuse. “We were just having a difference of opinion.” She scoffed, glaring at the seamstress.

“A simple bicker, Twilight! Do not worry darling, we are still the best of friends.” Rarity assured, with a fake smile, patting the paladin on the back. “Sunset here was simply attempting to deflect the true nature of her duty–”

“AHEM.” The Paladin interrupted her with a fluster. “Rarity here was just making assumptions about me.” she composed herself, turning to the Princess. “Don’t worry, we weren’t fighting.”

That convinced Twilight, who nodded with a genuine smile. “Good! I don’t like it when my friends fight!! Please be cordial and polite, okay Sunset?”

“Okay.” She affirmed with a diligent nod, straightening her back.

“If she tells you to bark, do you bark too?” Rarity amused herself with a whisper, and Sunset swiftly silenced her with a tail slap.

“What was that?” Twilight tilted her head.

“Nothing!” They both affirmed.

“O-okay!” She cleared her throat, looking back at the dance floor. “You know, they’re going to start playing some of my favorite music– It’s going to get pretty upbeat! Want to join me, Sunset?”

She froze, with her eyebrows shooting high. “...Dance with you?”

“Yep! It would be so fun!” The Princess’s smile was wide, almost innocent.

“Wouldn’t that be unprofessional?” She asked, and then immediately affirmed. “That would be unprofessional. Sorry, but enjoy the dance floor without me. I don’t dance.”

“That’s not what Pinkie told me. And what about that time with the sirens?” Twilight smirked, teasing her.

“Ahem, that was uh, alcohol filled stupor. And the second time was mind control." She lied foolishly; After all, she rejoiced in dancing with friends; But this wasn’t that. “I’m not much of a dancer… I don’t want to step on you accidentally in front of everypony, much less be the center of attention– I’m just your bodyguard, after all– I’m okay here in the corner… Maybe next time?”

There was only a brief moment where Twilight allowed herself to sigh with disappointment, but she nearly immediately picked her head up in determination. “N-next time, then! See you in a bit! You too, Rarity! Please no more fighting!”

They watched silently as the Princess quietly shuffled forward into the far off dance floor.

“Good heavens, darling– So much for the fearless Paladin routine.” Rarity side eyed her, with a grin, shaking her head.

“Don’t you have a handsome prince to find?!” Sunset huffed, glaring at her.

“I am just saying, I’ve heard many tales of your fearlessness in combat, slaying mythical beasts, fighting changeling armadas– Did you not merely weeks ago, slay an entire cult?” She tilted her head, with that same grin. “All that, and the mere idea of dancing with the Princess of Friendship has you shivering with fear. Poor Twilight…!”

“Y-you don’t know shit.” She sneered, but her fluster betrayed her.

“Do you even look at yourself?” Rarity couldn’t help but smile as she easily saw through the Paladin. “I’m Sunset Shimmer, and I’ve platonically pledged my entire life, my entire being, to Twilight Sparkle! I’ll die for her if I need to! But it’s platonic, I swear–”

“--Ugh, shut up!” Sunset whispered in anger.

“Keep the routine if you want, darling. Self sabotage is a tragic look on you. I only envy Twilight– The poor oblivious girl does not know what she has at her disposal…!”

Groaning, Sunset desperately trying to shift the subject. “If you want to gold dig royalty so badly, why don’t you marry Twilight if you love her so much?!”

An involuntary laugh came out of the seamstress, as she shot her head backwards. “Oh darling, don’t even go there; I am desperate, but not that desperate– Twilight is sweet, yes– But a mare like me has needs,and I am positively, undoubtedly certain that she could not fulfill any of them.”

“Yeah. She’s not a big strong handsome Prince, I get it.” Sunset rolled her eyes, then lost her train of thought, staring at the Princess. “...She’ll make for an incredible queen someday, though.”

“Do you need a napkin for your drooling?” Rarity teased, tilting her head.

“Please leave.” She grumbled in response, looking away.

"Ah, Twilight, as oblivious as ever... How I envy her. You are quite attractive, and I am... Appreciative of your musculature--" She nearly growled. "But I am much too kind of a friend to steal you from her, darling." She shrugged, hiding the pleasure it would be. "Let's have a rain check on that one-night-stand!"

All Sunset could do was grumble in annoyance, and fluster.

“I jest, I jest.” Rarity affirmed, making her leave. “I will enjoy the gala for now, but I’ll leave a bit earlier than I wished– I intend to take a trip north soon, and need to prepare for it in the next few days.”

“Expanding your business?” She asked absentmindedly.

“And hoping for adventure.” She nodded with determination. “Oh well– Good luck with your nonsense self sabotage, Sunset. Maybe in a few galas you’ll actually grow the nerve to dance with her–”

“I’m not scared.” She lied angrily, and Rarity saw through it.

“Oh, darling.” She shook her head, amused, giving the Paladin a few friendly pats on her back. “I hope you trip over yourself and land on top of our dear Princess already– Celestia only knows she needs it. If she finally puts you on a leash, or if you find any handsome princes, please report to me!”

“Bwuh.” Was all that the Paladin could mutter in response. And with that, Rarity left, as giddy as she had arrived.

Alone again, and this time, she was thankful.

The Princess, on the dance floor, flailed her limbs and spread her wings wide, cheerfully shaking her entire body to the rhythm of the upbeat tune that played; Royals around her retreated, puzzled, and she minded none of them, simply enjoying herself.

And there was another reason why Twilight made such a good Princess– She was not bound by the expectations and the judgment of others. She was herself, through and through– Maybe occasionally she felt fear or embarrassment, but she stayed true to who she was.

Sunset, for a moment, considered just how scared she was of sharing intimacy with the Princess, and just how adorable she was, even while dressed in the most beautiful manner.

And Rarity was right– Sunset had avoided Twilight like she was contagious, and she could barely understand why. Professionalism was the first excuse, but…

…There was the simple fact that she didn’t know if she could control herself if she did get closer to the Princess.

The past months had indeed demonstrated that she would hop from fling after fling mindlessly to cope– And Twilight Sparkle deserved better. Twilight was too good for that. And those unchaste thoughts had no right being directed towards the greatest mare she had ever met.

She chastised herself for those thoughts, and forced herself to think of nothing, for as long as the Princess danced.

Watching her quizzically, she saw Twilight stop dancing to greet a friend, giddily conversing with her at a distance.

And soon enough, she brought the friend towards Sunset.

The Paladin’s eyes widened, as she inspected this friend.

“I don’t think I introduced the two of you properly, have I?” Twilight, as happy as ever, led her friend forward. “Sunset, this is Moondancer! She was one of my childhood friends, we even studied magic in the same school! Top of our class!”

“H-hello!” The spectacled unicorn offered a shy hoof to be shaken.

And Sunset shook it, analyzing her thoroughly. “...Hi.”

“Moondancer, this is Sunset! She’s been my personal bodyguard for over a year, don’t let the suit fool you, she’s a Paladin! And she’s really, really good at her job!” She spoke proudly.

“I can see that…!” The unicorn inspected the tight suit thoroughly.

Sunset, through one magical motion, took Moondancer’s glasses, and moved them to Twilight’s face, and simply chuckled to herself, as both of the mares squinted. “Wow, sorry, you two just– You resemble each other!” A silly smile manifested in her muzzle.

“Hihi, yeah, we’ve been told…!” Twilight giggled.

“I’ll take it as a compliment, at this point…!” Moondancer clumsily equipped her glasses once more. “Not so bad, being mistaken for a Princess.”

“Not so bad at all.” Sunset couldn’t help but smile, inspecting the unicorn thoroughly, it was an adorable resemblance.

“Anyways, I’m going back to the dance floor, who wants to join??” Twilight hopped in place excitedly.

Sunset offered no reply, eyeing Moondancer, who herself just blushed. “I, um, wouldn’t mind just mingling with Sunset a bit! Get to know her, you know?”

“Suit yourselves!” Twilight smiled widely. “I love it when my friends become friends!” And with that same pep in her step, she moved back to the dance floor.

Silence, as the two unicorns stood together.

In that quiet, Sunset inspected Moondancer. Her dress seemed cheap, but it complimented her well, with shades of purple and red, and her hair was in a lovely, gentle bun.

And unmistakably, she looked a lot like Twilight.

With a fluster, Moondancer shuffled forward, closer, and Sunset did not recoil. “...Forgive me for being forward, but… You seem to have a lot of scars…!” She muttered, inspecting Sunset’s face closely. “Are these all wounds you’ve acquired protecting Twilight…?”

“Some.” Sunset couldn’t help but be quieter, breathing a bit uneasier, at the sight of Twilight’s twin. “I… Was already a warrior before I met her, and a reckless one, too…”

“But you’re still here.” She muttered, almost whispering. “It must mean you’re really good…!”

“I don’t yield, and I’m devoted.” She spoke simply, almost in a trance. “I’ll do anything to keep the Princess safe.”

“Twilight’s spoken highly of you… I can see why.” She blushed, nodding.

“Wait till you see me in a fight, heh.” Sunset grinned. “I’m still hoping there’s some sort of disaster for me to do something in this party…”

“Not a fan of these either, huh?” She adjusted her glasses, with a smile. “Yeah, I didn’t have it in my heart to tell Twilight I wasn’t very interested– But it is a big opportunity, so…!”

“It’s mostly a big royal circle jerk, yeah…” Sunset sighed, scratching her own chin, then looking at Moondancer. “...But there’s undeniable beauty in it, if you know where to look.”

Flustering, she came a little closer. “...Where should I look?”

Sunset couldn’t help but fluster as well. “...In a mirror, maybe.”

Their muzzles were close, suddenly there wasn’t much of a party around them.

Until there was.

“Gah! Sunset, you’re not gonna believe this!” Twilight groaned loudly, approaching them.

The Paladin backed away immediately, ears twitching. “What happened?!”

The Princess, disheveled and angry, displayed a side of her dress, which now had a huge stain. “That friggin… Dummy, Prince Blueblood, totally bumped into me and spilled his whole drink on the beautiful dress Rarity made me– And then when I tried telling him off he told me Princesses should smile more!!”

“Want me to kill him?” Sunset asked without skipping a beat.

Twilight was used to it. “Ugh, no, that won’t be necessary.” As much as she wanted to.

“Funny story. When I was younger, in one of my first galas, I pushed him down that staircase, over there.” Sunset pointed to the distance, with a grin. “I gave him a wedgie and just shoved him– Nopony ever caught me.”

“You did what?” Both mares spoke in unison, shocked, but with admiration.

“What? I was an asshole– And so was he. I should have figured he never changed.” She grumbled, scanning the party looking to find him, considering retribution.

“Ugh. You should have heard him joke about how he taxes his subjects.” Twilight frowned even deeper, with a pout. “I think I need to bring that jerk to justice…”

“What you need to do is enjoy the party.” Sunset affirmed with a smile. “Um, after you changed your dress, maybe.”

“Ugh, I know…” She pouted sadly. “I’ll have to apologize to Rarity sometime…”

“You know, speaking of her…” Sunset grinned deviously, thinking of payback on the seamstress. “…Rarity said she was looking for a handsome prince. Should I recommend her Blueblood?”

“Don’t even think about it!! We should keep her far away from that jerk! She deserves so much better!” Twilight huffed immediately, flapping her wings in anger.

“I’m joking, I’m joking!” Sunset laughed.

“W-well… I’m going to see if Celestia has a few spare dresses that might fit me… You two just keep doing what you were doing, okay?” She offered with a smile.

That was all the endorsement Sunset needed. “Roger that, Princess. I’ll see you later.”

And just like that, the Princess was gone, and Moondancer had been watching the whole thing quietly. “You two are really close, aren’t you…?”

“All part of the job.” She shrugged, with a smile. “Twilight is just… Really easy to get along with.”

“I’ll say…” She sighed, adjusting her glasses. “She was always a prodigy, you know? I can’t even remember the days me and her were spoken of in the same breath… After a while, I couldn’t keep up.”

“...And now she’s Princess.” Sunset gave her a sympathetic smile.

“I’m not… Jealous.” She spoke earnestly. “I don’t want this position, you know…? But I’m just… I just wish it didn’t feel so blinding, looking at her shine…!”

“...Yeah. I know how that feels.” She did, incredibly deeply, with an exhale. “I’m her bodyguard, yeah… But she never needed me.”

“I know I’m not needed.” Moondancer nearly whispered, just audible enough. “But I still don’t want to be left behind…!” She raised her head, not with determination, but faint desperation. “I want to matter, you know…?”

“I know.” Sunset nodded quietly. “...What do you want to be…?”

“Great.” She affirmed, with an almost giddy smile. “I used to want to be a librarian– But seeing Twilight do such great things– I think I might want to be a wizard…? Whether I’m here in Canterlot or traveling– I want to make a difference! See all of Equestria, use my skills with magic for something good, make my name known…!”

With a confident, kind smile, Sunset nudged her, shuffling closer. “...What’s stopping you?”

“...What isn’t?” She mumbled, with a sigh. “I don’t know. It doesn’t feel right. Why would somepony like me deserve to be great? I’m a nobody…!”

“You shouldn’t let that stop you.” She affirmed with that same smile. “If you’re even half as smart as Twilight, I’m surprised you’re not a legend already.”

“Flatterer.” She affirmed, blushing. “But you don’t know me… If you did…”

“I wouldn’t mind getting to know you, then.”

The gala was nearly ending, and Celestia let out a weary sigh, seeing the halls empty, and the main guests began to leave. She stretched, ensuring no royal could see her, and scanned the crowd.

Another boring dull uneventful event with dozens upon dozens of royals kissing her ass. She was desperately hoping for some good news as she glanced at the leaving crowd.

And as the crowd lifted apart, she could see Twilight Sparkle, adorning a new unstained dress… Sweeping the floors with a broom, alone.

Celestia’s eye twitched. She quickly swooped in, with both concern and sadness. “Twilight, what are you doing? Where’s Sunset?”

“Sweeping! I like to help tidy up, it helps me think–” She moved the broom about the floor, rhythming the sweeps she made to the sound of the final songs of the night. “I know it’s silly for a Princess to do, but it’s fun! Look; Sweep, sweep, sweep–”

“Twilight it is really not necessary for you to clean. And again, this is very important: Where is Sunset?” She repeated, hiding her exasperation.

“Oh, she offered to take a friend of mine home! Moondancer, remember her?” She smiled, continuing her sweep, and then blushed a little. “Isn’t Sunset so chivalrous, hihi…?”

“And… Did you manage to dance with her?” Celestia tilted her head, concerned.

“Nope! She said it was unprofessional, and I don’t blame her. Can you imagine the tabloids? ‘Twilight Sparkle caught getting frisky with her bodyguard!’ Sheesh! Like I need any more of that nonsense. She was super nervous about it, too– I think she might have stage fright, hihi.”

“Sunset fears nothing.” Celestia frowned with tremendous disappointment. “Except for you, it seems.”She muttered, inaudible.

“It's okay! I’m not sad about it, there will be other galas. Dancing with friends is always a fun time…” Her mind trailed off, thinking of what she had missed, being unable to dance with her Paladin. “Next time.” She affirmed.

“Yes. Friends.” Celestia exhaled, turning around. “If you need me, I will be atop the staircase– I must converse with my sister about something.”

“Goodnight, Queen Celestia! The Gala was lovely! Crowded, but lovely.” She muttered, trying to suppress her annoyance and frustrations of the night.

The Queen nearly flew up the stairs, cursing quietly to herself, fluttering her wings in frustration. Her aide, Raven, was sitting besides her, writing on a clipboard.

Luna had been watching, from the shadows, with an idle, unamused gaze, saying nothing. Celestia was the one that spoke, more frustrated than she had ever been. “Sunset left the party with a unicorn that looks dreadfully similar to Twilight Sparkle.” It was incredibly rare to see the Queen of the Sun frown like this. “It seems that my pupil was too busy with her Princess duties to do anything at all with her Paladin…!”

“What exactly did you expect, sister?” Luna sneered, huffing, as she came down to sit next to her sister.

“Not this.” She exhaled.

“Were you expecting them to dance romantically bathed by moonlight, surrounded by their subjects, embracing each other and forgetting the world?” It could be considered mocking, if her tone wasn’t bland, and disinterested. “Or perhaps you were hoping a crisis would occur, and Sunset would rescue the Princess from it, in which they would realize their profound love for each other?”

“Okay, I get the picture.” The Queen of the Sun frowned at her sister, with a glare.

“You live for a thousand years, and yet your perception of reality seems almost infantile.” Luna scoffed. “How are you this impatient?!”

“That is quite enough, Luna!” Celestia huffed, glaring. “Can you really blame me for hoping for the best?!”

“You want what’s best for your disheveled failed pupil, I get it–” She bit back. “But you’re not going to get it by trying to control her!”

“Do you have something against Sunset, dear sister?!” She barked, towering over her sister in anger. “Because if so, I’d like to hear it!”

“On the contrary! I am quite fond of her, and would quite like for her to stay with us!” She spoke truthfully, if not angrily. “After all, she may be the only other pony in Equestria that knows what it’s like living up to your shadow! Just because you might know what’s best for her, it does not give you the right to try to control her!!”

“B-but it IS what is best for her!” Celestia affirmed, and she wasn’t necessarily wrong.

“What is best for her is that she is not controlled.” Luna spoke sternly. “She has spent most of her life in servitude– And she deserves a choice.”

“If I may…!” Raven, who was listening intently, yet quietly, spoke up. “I may have a bit of wisdom to share.”

“Please do.” Celestia sighed, Glad to shift the attention away from her sister, and hoping Raven provided good news.

“...Do you remember when you first banished Sunset…?” Raven asked earnestly, adjusting her glasses. “...When you realized you would have to start from scratch with a new pupil?”

Leaning on the railing of the staircase, she pursed her lips, not wanting to relive the memories of one of the worst days of her thousand-year existence– Matched only by the day in which she banished her sister.

Raven spoke as comforting as she could; Not her speciality. “On that day, you made yourself a promise; One that would follow you to your next pupil. Do you remember it?”

Celestia muttered the words with sorrow. “No more biases. No more personal attachment– My next pupil would be there to fulfill a duty, and I would give her all the tools she needed to succeed, nothing more.”

“And Twilight Sparkle thrived, with you as her teacher.” Raven nodded wisely, shooting a glance to the Princess below who danced with her broom. “Sunset, however, did not, with you as her mother.”

Celestia was nearly in tears, exhaling. “I broke my baby…!”

Luna beheld her with pity, and regret. “...Sunset blames herself for everything that happened. It is a daily method of self inflicted torture for her– It is why she is so distant from you. But… You would be wrong to blame yourself for all of it, as well.”

It was rare that Raven saw the queen so vulnerable, so she threaded carefully, gently. “...Sunset Shimmer is an adult now– And she is wiser, we can all see that. You have to let her make her own decisions, even if it means letting her go.”

“And you must admit to yourself–” Luna spoke sternly once more. “--That it may have been your own bias and love towards her that made you think she was destined for greatness.”

“B-but she is capable of so much good!” Celestia muttered, not yet shedding tears.

“Maybe… And capable of a lot of bad, too, much like myself.” Luna looked down, frowning. “We have to let her make her own choices, and hope she makes the ones that are best for her, not us.”

Celestia was about to say another ‘but’, but Luna stopped her with a raised wing, as if shushing her. “I mean it, sister. No more meddling. And If Cadance is right…” She groaned, rolling her eyes. “Love will take its time, but find its way home.”

Yawning softly, and stretching, Moondancer shuffled in the covers, blinking blindly around.

A realization came to her, and she glanced around, finding her glasses on a nightstand beside her, and she equipped them in a hurry.

Ears twitched, she was not in her apartment, but someone else's, and the memories of the night before came flooding swiftly, much to her fluster.

Noises came from the kitchen, with Sunset humming to herself gleefully. Moondancer’s stutters caused her to smile wider. “Don’t get up! You’re getting breakfast in bed!”

Moondancer’s eyes widened, as the strong Paladin brought a tray with pancakes to bed, sitting beside it, happy as ever. “You’re in for a treat, I’m getting really good at making these, heh.”

They indeed looked delicious, covered in a healthy layer of honey and cinnamon, and the smell was not bad at all, either. But, for a moment, Moondancer just sat there.

“What’s wrong? Shit, are you allergic?” Sunset’s face immediately shifted into a grimace of worry.

“N-no! No, I just, um…” She stuttered, adjusting her glasses, blushing. “I, um, thought last night was a dream. Frankly I thought I dreamed you up.”

“I’m right here.” Sunset nodded, grinning confidently. “And I’m happy to be of service.” She winked.

Moondancer nodded quietly, yet emphatically, and began eating the breakfast provided, and was pleasantly surprised to find it was indeed delicious.

They ate quietly for a moment, and she was pleasantly surprised to see Sunset smiling through all of it. “Um… May I ask you a few questions?”

“Of course!” She responded immediately.

“Well, first off, I’d just like to say your apartment is lovely. It’s… Comfortable. Did you do renovations recently?”

“Unfortunately, yes.” She muttered with an annoyed sigh, but then smiled again. “I'm glad you like it, though!”

“It’s lovely! Especially that picture board– You seem to be making a lot of memories!” She affirmed with a pleased smile. “I should have figured you were popular…!”

“Something like that.” She shrugged, with a smile. That photo wall was beginning to be her pride and joy.

“Um… Next question…” She adjusted her glasses, inspecting Sunset’s back. “Those scars… Did you have wings in the past? What caused them…?”

Silence, for a moment, where Sunset considered her response, considered how much she wanted to open up.

It just so happened that it was easy to follow the bidding of a mare that looked like Twilight.

“...Are you familiar with urban legends of the Everfree forest? Myths, monsters, other things of the sort?” She asked the spectacled unicorn, calmly.

“With some, yes. It is quite an interesting subject of study…!”

“...Are you familiar with the demon of the temple of the moon?” She tilted her head analytically.

“Somewhat! A ravenous beast that was said to be trapped in an abandoned temple in the forest, right?”

“Yep. That was me.” Sunset affirmed, with a hollow tone. “I was the demon. I was trapped there for two years.”

“O-oh dear! W-what happened!?”

“It’s complicated, and not very good breakfast talk…” She shrugged, with a sad smile. “Twilight saved me from the darkness possessing me, but the wings… Had to go. They wilted off, and I was left with those scars.”

“O-oh, I’m so sorry…!” Moondancer had tremendous concern in her voice. “I’m… Glad Twilight saved you. No wonder you are so devoted to her…!”

“Hm.” She hummed absentmindedly. “After she… Brought me back, I pledged myself to her. Little did I know, she was the latest pupil of Celestia… The rest is history.”

“...Do you regret it?”

“Regret what?”

“Pledging yourself to her.”

Silence.

She wanted to avoid the question entirely, but she didn’t say a word.

Clearing her throat, she looked away. “It's… complicated. I’d rather not talk about it during breakfast, if that’s okay.”

Moondancer could sense a change of subject was in order, but she had more to pry. “Do you mind if I ask you a couple of tangentially related questions, then…?”

“Shoot!” Sunset said, taking another bite of her flavorful pancakes.

Nervously, blushing, Moondancer stammered her way onto something that plagued her mind beautifully. “...Do you treat every other lover of yours as gently as you treated me…?”

Sunset snickered, exhaling, answering the question with another. “Are you asking that because you want to know if you’re special, or because you want to prod over my sexual life?”

“The answer would reply to both questions regardless, wouldn’t it?” She fidgeted with her glasses nervously, pensively, flustering. “It was, um, my first time, I’m just glad it was with you.”

Sunset nearly choked. “Holy shit– Did I deflower you? I’m sorry, wow!” She couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Nothing to be sorry about.” She muttered, blushing. “Ahem, and um, about the question?”

“...I didn’t want to hurt you.” She replied earnestly, with a kind sigh. “That’s all.”

Moondancer nodded quietly, still blushing, thankful for the breakfast.

Silence passed while she psyched herself up for asking the burning question.

“...Why did you call me Princess?”

Sunset spat out her Pancakes, nearly choking on them, wheezing for air, and gasping. “I what!?”

“You called me Princess. When we were doing… What we were doing, last night.”

“Y-you must have misheard me, hahah!” She grinned nervously, making painfully awkward flustered eye contact.

“I doubt I would have misheard you a couple dozen times.” She raised an eyebrow quizzically. “Why did you call me Princess?”

“Just a pet name, haha! I hope you liked it, and uh, stuff!” She lied poorly, tripping over her own words.

“I did.” She adjusted her glasses again, with a fluster. “But, um, that wasn’t the point of the question.”

Sunset did not reply, instead filling her mouth with more pancakes and chewing nervously.

“Final question.” She narrowed her eyes, still blushing, but burning with curiosity. “Have you done… This with Twilight Sparkle?”

“No, why would you think that?!” She grinned nervously, even if speaking earnestly, with a mouth full of pancakes.

With a sigh, Moondancer shook her head, blowing raspberries. “...I knew it was too good to be true.”

“I don’t know what you mean…?”

She began cleaning her glasses, while pensively pondering. “It seems you might have projected your affection towards the Princess and directed it at me.” She exhaled, shrugging. “It was ultimately for my benefit, don’t get me wrong, I don’t regret it– But I’ve read enough books about psychology to know that you have some underlying issues you need to adress with my friend.”

“I, uh, what?” She tilted her head, much like a confused dog.

“I figured I would be the vulnerable one that could be taken advantage of, but I believe it is the opposite, and I’m sorry.” Moondancer fidgeted embarrassingly. “I am sorry it took me so long to notice– If I had earlier, I would have just directed you towards Twilight.”

“Look, I don’t know what you’re talking about–” Sunset grinned awkwardly. “But I did enjoy what we did! I did, really!” It was the honest truth.

“And yet, I can’t help but shake the feeling you wanted somepony else.” She raised an eyebrow, with a grin of someone that was reading her like a book. “I had heard plenty of good things about you from Twilight, but I had also heard the… Interesting things.” She sighed, shaking her head. “The way you talked last night about purpose and happiness– All directed at me, deflecting it all off of you. Why are you stopping yourself from being happy?”

“I–” She paused, looking away, head still spinning from the entire conversation. “I’m… In a transitional period in my life. I nearly died a few months back, and I remember only feeling… Relief, when I laid down my life so Twilight could beat Nightmare Moon. For the past months I’ve just been kind of on a bender… I’m waiting to see if the bell tolls or if I have to keep going with this shit.” She gestured vaguely.

“You seem to be rationalizing your insecurities as an excuse to self sabotage.” the unicorn exhaled, fidgeting with concern. “It is a cruel reality you live in, one where you’re not allowed to be happy…”

“Look, it's not about that.” She clumsily fumbled her thoughts. “I just– I don’t think it's a good idea to commit myself to some shit, if I’m going to die tomorrow.”

“That is exactly what I just said.” She huffed, frowning. “Why are you not allowed to be happy?”

“I’m just not.” She narrowed her eyes, with a shrug. “Not in the cards for me. I’d rather leave the world to keep spinning– I’m not… I don’t deserve to mess with it.”

“Instead of leaving it to fate, maybe you should ask yourself what you want, instead?” She leaned forward, with concern. “What you want, not anypony else. You.”

Silence, as Sunset thought to herself. Some words from the previous night bounced around in her head– If what she wanted was wrong to have, all she needed was to be selfish to have it. And that never stopped her from getting it before, why did it now?

Rarity said she was scared. And she was right. Scared of being happy, scared of having something good.

Why not grab life by the horns and take it? Why not be selfish and claim it, once more?

No, she didn’t deserve happiness. But that didn’t mean she couldn’t take it.

Moondancer cleared her throat. “You are incredibly strong and capable– Your skills are unique. If you are unhappy here, you could go anywhere in Equestria, have anything you want. Why don’t you?”

“I don’t want anything else.” She muttered, vision blurred, looking away.

“Then what do you want?”

Quietly, Sunset laid her head down on her bed in defeat, chuckling with nervousness, and regret. “Why didn’t I just fucking dance with her?!” She muttered, muffled by the mattress.

“There we go.” Moondancer smiled, taking another bite of the delicious pancakes. “You’re welcome, Twilight.”

Raising her head, she had a look of almost determination, if not desperation. “Moondancer. You’re incredible. If you stop by the castle, and you still want to be a wizard, maybe Twilight can hook you up in some way–” She turned, and elegantly, skillfully equipped her armor in mere seconds. “But I have to go to work, and I need to tell Twilight what I want before I chicken out.”

“Good.” She nodded, but then sighed. “...Shame, though. Looks like Twilight will beat me to something good again.” She spoke vaguely, beholding the Paladin.

Sunset grinned, laughing at her own previous idiocy. “Hey, Twilight didn’t beat you to anything. Don’t forget last night.” She walked forward, kissing her on the cheek. “Seriously, thank you, Moondancer. I hope I see you around.”

“M-me too.” She blushed, giggling. “Well, let’s tidy up so you can see your Princess…!”

“Yeah. C’mon. I need to talk to her yesterday.”

Author's Note

Were you expecting some sort of epic climactic finale? Sorry, but that's not what this fic is about-- Its about Sunset making stupid choices lmao.

Which, this was funny to write but I hope it wasn't infuriating to read, oh my god. Like, when I was considering the obviousness of the biggest freudian slip of the century-- Of Moondancer resembling Twilight incredibly, but not having any of the baggage of Sunset's insecurities, it was only obvious Sunset would want a piece, being already incredibly frustrated with the party. Like, it makes complete absolute sense but oh my god I hope it wasn't infuriating to witness 🤣

Thank goodness Moondancer is intelligent enough to sniff it out. While Sunset is like an puppy following instinct.

I believe I've only seen this ship on occasion, which makes sense, since Moondancer is such an obscure-ass character. The meta narrative is there-- Sunset was a failed pupil, while Moondancer is like a shadow of Twilight left behind. I get why it's shipped, but sadly the poor spectacled nerd is too much of an blank slate! (much like a certain Princess of Love!)

Shoutout to Moondancer debimbofication. My god, that third one-- That's just shiny pokemon twilight...

But yeah lmao. Moondancer swoops in easily gets to be with Sunset bc Sunset is just THAT down bad for someone that looks like her LOL

Moondancer 🤝Trixie --> Bragging about fucking Sunset first

Anyways. To those that are familiar, there has been a couple dozen Princess and the Peasant references in this! This Rarity, oh, this Rarity, how I missed writing her. It's kind of funny to introduce her like this-- A stark contrast from the other fic, heh. Those that know know, Rarity be like "I want a handsome prince" And there's an applejack sized meteor coming her way.

There's also a funny thing that shrek goes through, that I went through too. In shrek 1, theres absolutely zero explanation as to why fiona is locked in a tower, that only comes in shrek 2. And I've kind of taken that same fun little plothole into my shrek rewrite, in the Princess and the Peasant; It's one of those moments where I'm like yeah, whatever, a wizard did it. If I rewrote it all to be original and mine, I'd def give an explanation; Likely smth revolving on Rarity having competition that knows no one would ever rescue her from a tower, so they lock her there. (I'm looking at you, Suri Polo Mare.)

I don't want to apologize for this fic being anticlimactic, because I'm doing it like this on purpose-- There has been already plenty of climactic adventures these characters shared, and there will be plenty more; This is indeed a story about Sunset going on a bender.

And hey, it all goes full circle, doesn't it? turns out I wrote another fanfic about what Sunset wants. Go figure :)

And hey. Although Celestia and Sunset will not get a full reconciliation on this fic, (Mom has to stop interfering, after all. Its too soon.) know that I'm setting up sooo many dominoes for the sequel.

Next chapter is the last one, and it won't be as long. And I think you know what the title will be.