Sunset Shimmer's Secrets Revealed

It was very early Saturday morning. So early in fact that the sun hadn't even graced the skies outside yet. Sunset having felt restless most of the night decided when she woke up at 4:50 felt she might as not try and fight it and got up out of bed. But did her best to remain as quiet as possible so not wake anyone else up.

The only other person who was up of course was her kitten Daybreak who always slept right beside her and animals know pretty instinctively when someone needs some loving and comfort. She also knew based on yesterday's outburst that Sunset really needed her at the moment.

Right at the moment Sunset was writing a reply back to Prince Fledge to answer some of his questions about Human World holidays and also just confide him and Princess Twilight more of her feelings.

She laid flat on her bed with her journal propped open against the end of the bedframe and curled up right beside her was Daybreak purring and licking her every so often. She had also nudge the doll of Sunset as a Princess next to her.

"You're so kind and loving, Daybreak. Really sorry for taking you away from your playtime with your new friends yesterday. I'll make it up to you, I promise. Now let's see? Time to answer Prince Fledge's questions," she spoke barely above a whisper with her beside lamp on.

The lamp was cool that the way it was decorated both the lamp body and shade were actually photographs taken of the most beautiful sunsets you could imagine on Earth and that been somehow imposed on the lamp and shadow. So that was very cool the magic of this world technology.

Stroking her kitten one final time Sunset began to write her letter to Equestria.

"Dear Prince Fledge and also to you Twilight.

I hope your Hearth Warming Eve party went very well. I do miss the Equestria holidays sometimes. But we have three of the same holidays here in the Human World. We just call them something different but they're very much the same.

For example we've our own version of Hearth Warming Eve. Here it's called Christmas and for this world it's not to celebrate the unity of three kinds of people like it was for us and defeating wendigos.

For Christmas here is to celebrate the birth of this world savior. His name was Jesus Christ and was the son of this world divine entity known simply as "God" who supposed to have created this world and the birth of his son to a virgin was meant to save this world from sin.

Though there is the commercial side of it with a fat old man named Santa Clause to give presents to good boys and girls along with talking snowmen and red nose reindeer and other things like that.

Still it was meant to celebrate the birth of the one meant to save all mankind from sin. However most holidays in this world are overtaken with the commercial side of things rather than the true meaning.

But that doesn't mean we don't have an interesting way of celebrating the holidays here. And for my family is really cool. Even though my father here is into some Asian religion he is also faithful to God himself.

As Yin Yang explained to the other Twilight he likes to take the best bits of many different cultures and mold them together for his own unique interpretation of them. So yeah and my human mother we celebrate Christmas here.

There is something special they did the first Christmas I came to this world and trying to reach me took me to see a special ballet called "The Nutcracker" and while I acted for the most part bored and mean I was totally in love with the beauty, grace and enchanted by it all.

So we've seen it every Christmas since. We go to see it the day after my parents' holiday party at their work. Last year I was invited and I wore a somewhat sexy Miss Clause outfit that at least they'd picked out for me ahead of time. So it wasn't too ostentations.

My mom also made sure I'd stylish and chic winter clothes that might only be bought in New York City or look like I bought them in Aspen and was going there for winter fun. Alas no I've not been to either location in all the time I've lived here but would like to go to both of them. On the other hand while we've not been to either location we still have ways of getting fashion and other things from them. My mom has extremely good connections to those she helps with her advertising agency. As a result I can get great stylish outfits that way as well as a few other things.

I also attend the parties at their work for both New Year and the ever changing Chinese New Year. Got a stylish dress for each New Year. The one for the normal New Year is a dark blue and sophisticated and the other is a traditional red Chinese dress know as a cheongsam.

Either way I look hot, sexy, beautiful and downright cool in all the clothes my parents have provided for me.

Another holiday from Equestria we have here is our world name for Hearts and Hooves Day is called Valentine's Day but it's still meant to celebrate love, exchange cards and find a special someone.

There also this baby cherub god know as Cupid who meant to shoot people with golden arrow of true love and help them find true love. But that's just a myth with no real practicality to back it up.

I did dress up as a female cupid for my parents Valentine's Day party and I looked cute in the pink, white and magenta outfit that Sunfire had made for the party for me.

The last holiday we share is Nightmare Night however here it's called Halloween and its more about the spirits of the dead having the ability to come back to earth during that night. But there are of course commercial things like for every holiday in this world. Still we do have trick-or-treating where children dress up in costume and go get candy.

Well hope that answers your questions on shared holidays. I've other things on my mind though I wish to discuss with you both.

I realize I cannot keep up the charade much longer of not having a home or a family at least from the girls who are all our friends. The Twilight here is so far the only one who knows the truth. She's kept it a secret and I don't believe she betray me.

However, things have changed. My parents have unbelievable amount of love, compassion, patience and tolerance. Which is amazing given how badly I treated them and the students at school. I'm honestly surprised they never kicked me out and did leave me to live on the streets.

Which is why it's even harder to tell the others the truth. I'm just consumed with guilt, shame, and regrets and a lot of anger at myself for being the bitch I was before. I'm very afraid if I do tell them the truth they'll utterly despises me again and stop being my friends. Then I'll be alone again and I can't go back to being alone.

Still my parents aren't giving me any choice in the matter. They gave me an ultimatum. I've got to tell at least the rest of our shared friends the truth soon or they'll pull me out of the Canterlot Equestrian Games. Which I've worked my ass off for nearly three years to even qualify to compete in it!

I've not worked this hard and my horse Solar Flare hasn't worked her hindquarters off that much either for neither of us to compete. So looks like I'll have to tell them.

But not sure where or when all I know it's gotta be soon. So pray for me and wish me luck that I can do this. Well I've got to go now. We're having Twilight's family over tonight and there is a lot to do get ready for that.

So thank you for listening and hope you can get back to me soon. Love you both very much. Signing off for now your friend Sunset Shimmer."

Closing the magical journal and putting it in a safe location she yawned and turned to look at Daybreak who yawned at the same time. "I do believe that's the longest letter I've written to Equestria ever, Daybreak. Still we've got a lot to do today and we better help get it started.

Let's go see if my parents are up and about and ask them what we need to do get ready and if I need to dress up some tonight or not. Beside you need breakfast anyway. Let's go!" as the former unicorn now teenager raced to the kitchen with her 8 month old kitten.

She found even though it was barely seven in the morning her parents were both up and making breakfast. Neither of her parents were coffee drinkers because coffee made Sunfire sick to her stomach from smell alone and Yin Yang hated the disgusting taste anyway.

So their morning beverage was healthy fruits and vegetables blended together in their blender. So they had fresh banana, blueberries, cherries, cranberries, strawberries, and raspberries for fruit. For vegetables they used asparagus, spinach, carrots and broccoli.

It didn't look very good looking when it was done blending but all those fruits and vegetables each played some important role for a healthy body and healthy living. Both of Sunset's parents believe in a clean and healthy lifestyle and diet and she was thankful for it herself.

So while Sunfire was using the blender today to make their usual breakfast beverage Yin Yang was busy making few quick but healthy breakfast meals. He again was talented in many areas like math, languages and definitely cooking as well.

So for their breakfast he was busy making it included a quinoa fruit salad, quinoa chocolate breakfast bowl, berry breakfast parfait, and vegan blueberry flax muffins. All which looked good and did taste good.

Sunset first went to the cabinet under the sink to get her kitten the healthiest cat food for her body ever created, then used the tiny measure cup in the plastic box the food was kept in to give her the correct amount. Then used the water filter attached to the faucet to give her the cleanest ice-cold water to drink.

"Honey? Can you please go set up the breakfast dishes in the dining room when you're done with Daybreak?" Sunfire asked as she was measuring out the fresh berries at the moment.

"Sure thing, Sunfire. I'll have that done quickly."

Well before long the family was in the dining room and enjoying their very healthy breakfast and just talking about what they needed to do to get ready for dinner at seven.

"I made a list of the food needed for the meal I'm making for the dinner tonight. I was thinking that you could go with your mother to "Pass the Plate Supermarket" to get what we need.

We know they've got food from all over the world, good prices and can count on the freshest for fruits and vegetables all year around and that small in-store restaurant. So it's like all the best supermarkets rolled into one."

"It is where shop for food all the time, Yin Yang. But yes me and Sunfire can go there and get what you need to make dinner. Just give me the list and I'll make sure we get all we need to make dinner with the Sparkles perfect tonight. I'll also make sure to bring all that huge insolated reusable bag for things to stay fresher and all the other reusable bags we use in general for grocery shopping. They're still in the hall closet right? Next to vacuum cleaner and other cleaning supplies?"

"You know it always is, Sunset. We also make sure that hall closet is as organized as it can be and that nothing could get ruined or contaminated. Your mother will need all the help she can get to get all the shopping done."

"Then once we're done shopping I guess it falls up on me to get the apartment cleaned up while you two cook? Dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, basically the whole shebang?"

"Well, I'll help where I can too, sweetie, but yes. Just make sure you take a shower at least an hour and half before hand to get really clean and dress nicely for the company. You don't have to wear a fancy dress or anything but something a bit more…"

"Something nicer then my school outfit but not over-the-top? Got it! I'll also make sure to groom and cleanup Daybreak too. So let's get started. We're lucky that the grocery store we go to opens up early. So let's book it!" Sunset announced to which her parents smiled and agreed.

So they hurried quickly down to where the building's parking garage was and Sunfire used her keys to start up their burnt orange Honda Accord. Sunset wish yet again that she was in drivers ED class as they got into the car. However that was still for a while before she and the other girls had that class. She didn't even have a permit yet so they couldn't practice driving yet and she was still aching to get it ASAP and start learning how to drive.

Sunfire could easily see what was bothering her daughter this time as they left their home and headed to the store. Turning down the radio for a second she stroked her daughter's red and blond hair and said sympathetically.

"I know it sucks, being sixteen and still not even got your permit yet. I know it sucks that the school made that class only for seniors and not juniors and seniors like in the past. Though it's not like Principal Celestia had much choice in the matter did she? Not after what happened just before you came here in that one Drivers Ed class?"

"No, she certainly didn't have much choice in the matter. I think when six students all crash at the same time and destroy the whole east wing because of how poorly they drove I can see why it's now only for seniors and not any for any younger students." Sunset answered back and both mother and daughter laughed up a storm from it.

Well things went pretty smoothly for the rest of the day. They got all they need shopping and also picked up some air freshen oils while out to really make their home inviting. They'd gotten a pack of four very different scents so it was gonna be wonderful.

They got back home a little after ten-thirty and went right to work getting things ready for the Sparkles. Though they'd a lot to cook Sunfire did help her daughter getting their home clean while still helping with the cooking so there were many things to get done and they got them all done.

Thanks to her mom's help that also gave Sunset time to also really clean up the litter box in the bathroom which she was her sole responsibility to keep clean and fresh. Lucky that why the family always got two super-size boxes of Arm and Hammer Clump and Seal Cat Litter at the beginning of every other month. Since just one Super-size box last a month, so they lasted two last two months.

She finished cleaning the box and was washing her hands carefully when her mom poked her head in the bathroom. "You got the whole bathroom plus the litter box clean, right?"

"Yes, I scrubbed the hell out of the bathroom. The sink, shower, toilet and mirror have all been scrubbed harder and cleaner then when we've yearly inspections. I put fresh newspaper under Daybreak's litter box and just added a fresh layer of the best cat litter ever. I even reorganized the bathroom closet and medicine cabinet too. I was just about to decide what scent to put in here and you could chose the scents for the dining room and living room and I chose the other one for the hallway."

"I already chosen apple and cinnamon scent for the dining room and blooming peony and cherry for the living room. So what are you gonna chose for the bathroom and to fill the rest of the apartment?"

"For the bathroom? The new scent of blue odyssey and for to fill the rest of the apartment? The other new scent from Glade radiant berries."

"Good choice. Now how about I put all the scents in their plug-ins and you come back in in about fifteen minutes to shower and pick out an outfit for tonight? Deal?"

"Deal! I also already did clean Daybreak and as you can see she's soft, fluffy and smells nice herself!"

"Good to know. Now get ready for your shower okay, sweetheart?"

"Sure thing."

So after all three of them had gotten super clean and dressed up nicely for the dinner they're more than ready when the Sparkles were allowed into their small gated community and were being directed to where to park in the small guest parking part of the parking garage.

They'd all done their best too look their best. Sunfire was wearing a fuchsia strapless cocktail dress, her husband was wearing a good black dress shirt with dress pants and a black and white tie. Sunset was wearing a reddish gold off-the-shoulder top with a dark red pencil skirt and heeled ankle strap sandals.

They buzzed them in and just waited. This was nerve-wracking for both Sunset's parents as well as Twilight's whole family. Both girls were praying that this dinner went off without a hitch.

Finally the Sparkles knocked on the door and Sunfire opened it and welcomed them in. They too had done their best to look nice without going over the top. Twilight's dad was dressed in a midnight blue dress shirt and dark slacks. Her mom was wearing a short cocktail dress similar to Sunfire's however it wasn't strapless and was lilac in color. Shining Armor was wearing a long sleeved dark purple shirt and maroon slacks. Twilight was wearing a lavender top with a grayish purple pencil skirt and her own heeled sandals.

"Welcome to our humble home, Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle. Our daughter Sunset and your daughter Twilight only had good things to say about you all when Twilight was here last week." Sunfire said politely as she ushered them into her home.

"It's very nice to meet you as well, Sunfire. You as well, Yin Yang. Thank you so much for having us over. You can call me Velvet and my husband Night Light. This is our son Shining Armor and you have of course met Twilight and of course Spike. Twilight here refused to leave him at home alone. So I hope that's not too much trouble." Velvet apologized.

"It's not a problem, Velvet we anticipated that Spike be here for dinner. I made some special dog food for him along with everything I prepared for us. Please make yourself at home. I'll go see if everything ready and we'll eat soon. So make yourselves at home." Yin Yang suggested as he headed to the kitchen.

Well if Twilight had been impressed by Sunset's home her parents were even more mind-blown by it. Even Shining Armor was impress and only had compliments. They also brought a gift with them which they gave to Sunfire to find out the gift was a lovely handcrafted picture frame.

"We hope you can put a picture from this important night on it. Since it's your first time really entertaining a friend of your daughter's and her family and this our daughter's first time really being at a friend's house and it's just a very special occasion for both of our families." Velvet explained.

"It's perfect for tonight. Would you mind if I played something while my husband finishes with getting dinner set up? Sunset? Could you and Twilight be dears and go help put the food on the table."

"Yes, Sunfire we can go help Yin Yang with that. C'mon, Twilight."

"Spike? You and Daybreak help us in the dining room and make sure your own small table is set up properly too. C'mon!"

"Okay, Twilight!" as the purple doggy hurried with the pretty kitty close behind.

"Okay, still hearing that dog talk is still taking getting use too. It still freaks me out some." Shining Armor admitted as he watched the girls disappear out of the room.

"It's a little odd, but life full of magic, Shining Armor. Long before even our daughter came into town, magic is just part of life. Whether here in this world or the world of Equestria. I'm sure Twilight will get you all up-to-speed soon enough. Every other kid at CHS has gotten their families already up-to-speed. So pretty much all of Canterlot knows about what's gone on at CHS since the other Twilight came." Sunfire admitted with a chuckle.

"It's still freaky to think that our daughter had a pony counterpart that is a princess. But still nice all the same to know." Velvet replied.

"I agree. I knew my daughter was a princess in some way but to know in another world she actually is one? Very nice to know I agree, my love." Night Light agreed with pride.

"Well, how about I play one song and then we should be ready to eat?" Sunfire suggested as she sat down by her piano and closed her eyes and began to play Beethoven Fifth Sympathy perfectly from memory.

"Sounds like your mom really knows how to play, Sunset. Um your folks don't care too much about that stupid where the forks or spoons thing go right?" Twilight asked as they're carrying the food to the dining room table.

"We like eating some exotic dishes and trying to eat healthy, yes that's true, on the other hand no, we don't care how the table is set. As long as the food's good who cares how the tableware is set? As long as everyone's got a knife, fork and spoon and napkin what else really matters?" Sunset answered back as she put the big bowl of berry salad in the middle of the table whilst Twilight finishing putting the silverware on the table.

"Okay, let's get the rest of the food so your dad doesn't try to juggle too many things. Then we can finish getting Spike and Daybreak's little table set up in the corner."

"My thoughts exactly. He does always try to carry too much at once. He actually broke his wrist once from trying to carry too much at once. So let's hurry, I don't want him to go to the emergency room tonight!"

"Thanks, girls, for all your help." Yin Yang thanked them as they carried the rest of dinner in. By that time Sunfire had finish playing and everyone walked in and smelled the delightful aromas.

"Something smells delicious. What did you make tonight?" Velvet inquired as they walked in.

"We've some veggie sushi, crab Rangoon, berry blast salad, some spiced fish for dinner. My wife made a family recipe for dessert."

"It is herring and blackberry pot pie. My grandmother made it all the time for me when I was a little girl as her mother and grandmother did for her. It's one of the few family recipes in my family. I hope it's alright with you."

"It sounds like it all will be delightful." Night Light said but Shining Armor then added.

"Um what are we gonna be drinking?"

"We've some homemade vegetable juice and fruit smoothies. The vegetable juice for dinner then for you kids can have the fruit smoothies for dessert and the four of us will share this one bottle of Pinot Noir wine that Sunset and I picked up this morning." Sunfire informed him.

"We don't usually have much alcohol in this house, but it's a special occasion so we figured one bottle for the adults won't be a bad idea." Sunset explained as everyone took their seats.

The husbands pulled their other's wives chairs out for them and helped sit them. Shining Amor pulled out chairs for both his sister and Sunset and Spike and Daybreak pulled their cushion out for the others. Yin Yang and Sunfire had been true to their word to make a good meal for the pets as well.

So the dinner began and everyone took a good amount of all the food and the first to try it was Shining Armor who tried the spiced fish first. He looked a bit uncertain but he smiled happily and then tried the veggie sushi and he nodded approvingly.

Then both Twilight's parents tried the homemade veggie juice and loved it too. So at least the food was good and very soon everyone was eating happily and after about ten minutes of eating they finally started to have a conversation.

The parents talked first as Sunset's parents talked about how their advertising agency was founded and how they did all kinds of advertising that was on TV, Internet and Radio and then Twilight's parents talked about their own work and they all talked a bit about their own high school and college days.

When the topic got to college though is when Shining Armor began to talk about how his first week as a freshman at Golden Dreamstone was going. He was talking about how cool the campus was and just how challenging but exciting both the social aspect and the academic aspect of the school was and that it was just pretty darn amazing. He said he was happy that even though he didn't go straight to college when he graduated from Crystal Prep at 18 and waited till after he turned 19 he was just happy to be accepted into such an awesome and amazing college like this one.

Twilight reminded everyone that it was Fledge's family that built Shining Armor's college and it be very great if she could attended it after she and Sunset finished at CHS.

Sunset asked Twilight how things with Fledge were going and her parents were curious to know how the first date went. So everyone listened as Twilight recounted her date from last Saturday and that she and Fledge were planning their second date to the following weekend.

When asked what they'd in mind Twilight said they'd be going to the Canterlot Field and History Museum which was also attached to an Art Gallery too. So they'd enjoy the fascinating exhibits and artwork of local artists. Then go for a nice walk in the park. That was the plan at least and it sound alright to everyone.

Then Twilight's parents asked Sunset if she had anything exciting coming up and a little more about herself. Sunset told them all about how she'd be very busy for the next few weeks getting serious training in for the Canterlot Equestria Games.

That she was doing a lot for this show. Like there was just presentation she and her horse Solar Flare had to pass for the beauty part and then the jumping and other parts of the Games. However she was very confident after nearly three years of practice and finally earning a spot in the Games she'd beyond doubt win this hands down.

They then retired to the living room to enjoy the pie and fruit smoothies for Sunset, Twilight and Shining Armor and two small glasses of Pinot Noir wine for the grownups.

They talked some more and Sunset's parents showed off some more of their natural talents and showed them some photo albums and it was just a good rest of the evening.

Since visitors who didn't have a pass couldn't stay in the building or community past ten since visiting hours were 8 am to 10 pm the Sparkles left at 9:30 and thanks Sunset's parents for a good time and that perhaps they could come to their place for dinner sometime in the future or something to which they agreed.

So all in all both Sunset and Twilight knew that dinner had been a success and that at least their families really liked each other and things were going well. Now Sunset just had to face the rest of their friends at school on Monday and apologize.

Also her parents and Principal Celestia suggested she start seeing the school therapist Dr. Psyche Byron at least once a week before school and Monday was her first session with her. Needless to say everyone a little nervous the first time they go see a therapist for any reason but Sunset knew this was part of the deal so she could still participate in the Equestrian Games. She was supposed to see the school therapist and she had to tell her friends the truth. On the other hand she was at least allowed to tell them the truth on her terms as long as she did it sooner rather than later.

So she was dropped off by her mom extra earlier long before anyone else be at the school and reminded her she pick her up afterschool so she could get the stables for her training time.

Sunset reminded her mom to pick her up at the convenient store two blocks from the school. She was reminded of her promise to tell her friends the truth and Sunset said she would but on her terms and just not today. Though she'd apologize to her friends for her outburst on Friday.

Seeing that this was the best they'd be able to do Sunfire kissed and hugged her daughter goodbye and told her not worry about seeing Dr. Byron for she was also a former classmate and was a very good listener with a very soothing personality and got along well with just about anyone.

Waving goodbye she watched as her mom headed to her job and gave a big sigh. Adjusting her backpack she hurried inside and for the first time ever since attending the school to the school therapist offices. Her office in between Celestia's and Luna's and just around the corner from the teacher's lounge.

Taking a deep breath she knocked once and heard a very young sweet sounding voice say, "Come on in, Sunset Shimmer, I don't bite."

Taking another deep breath Sunset entered the room for the first time and glanced around the room taking it in. The room was average size for an office and it was nice.

The walls were painted soothing relaxing colors of lavender, pale pink and light blue and the carpet was a very light soothing green color. As you'd expect she had a very nice desk with the normal things on it. The walls had a few things to be expected on them as well. Her certified degree in psychology on the wall, a school calendar, some student made inspirational posters about mental illness and just encouragement for life and also a few paintings that Sunset recognized from her mom's encyclopedia of the history world art.

"I see you're familiar with the work of Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh. I had the great joy of actually going to see the originals of these three pictures at the Metropolitan Museums of Art in college. Many great works there but these three paintings of which are just reproduction copies made the biggest impression on me," the therapist explained pointing to three replicas paintings.

Sunset immediately recognized the three paintings seeing how her mom had been on that same field trip as Psyche here. The paintings were in the order of the artists' mention were "The Green Wave" "In the Meadow" and finally "First Steps"

"I know lot about this world's cultural history thanks to my parents here. So yes I'm very familiar with these works as many others." Sunset explained as she now examined the woman in front of her.

Her first impression was that this woman Psyche here was she was a beautiful as the character in Greek mythology whom Cupid fell in love with. She kinda looked like a character from mythology from head-to-toe to be perfectly honest. Just her physical appearance and hairstyle looked like out of a myth. Even her outfit looked a bit like something some mythical character would wear with a modern day edge and sophistication to it.

Still both Sunset and Psyche took their respective seats and began their first session. Which like with any therapist wasn't too much of talking about the problem as it was just getting to know each other to build trust and understand who each other was. They'd actually at their next session get around to really talking about Sunset's issues.

After half an hour Sunset left feeling at least it wasn't as bad as she thought it be. Dr. Byron told her they'd be seeing each other every Monday for a half hour before school started and that she wanted Sunset to really be honest with her about her problems as they worked through them to which she agreed.

With that finished Sunset went to find her friends so she could do the next thing that was part of her parents' terms of their agreement. She found them in the band room despite it was only Monday not Tuesday, but didn't think much about it.

"Hey, everyone. How are you doing today? Did you've a good weekend?" she asked in an uncomfortable manner as everyone was giving her some harsh looks that she really felt bad about.

"Our weekends were all very nice and just alright. We all did want to do something with you and Twilight but Twilight said she was busy on Saturday with a family thing and we weren't even sure we should invite you to hang out anyway." Rainbow Dash explained in a very icy tone.

"Yes, we're not sure if we've to deal with the old Sunset Shimmer again and get yelled at and treated like dirt on a good pair of new white heels for something that could possibly offended you for some reason." Rarity also added in her own icy tone.

"You were pretty mean on Friday, Sunset." Fluttershy reminded her to which Applejack added, "You honestly were acting worse than a bull in a bull fight on Friday."

"Yeah, and Gummy wasn't happy to see his new friend be taken away from him just when they're gonna play! He spent all Friday night pouting and gnawing on a rubber band ball."

"He always gnaws on something he can use his gums on since he's got no teeth, Pinkie Pie. Though there wasn't an excuse for me blowing up like that on Friday at all. I'm really sorry for getting that overemotional and overreacting on Friday.

So very sorry I yelled at you, Fluttershy in particular and that I caused a scene pretty much ruining Pet Appreciation Day for the whole school after all the work we did for The Big Help Week. Guess the old Sunset Shimmer ruled her ugly head last Friday.

Still I'm very sorry for what I did on Friday. Just so you know as punishment Principal Celestia is now making me see the school therapist every Monday before school starts from now on. Which is where I just came from."

"We accept your apology, Sunset. Anyone can have a bad day or overreact and we all have days when we act like well like a bitch to be honest. Still it's at least good that you did apologize for your bitchiness on Friday." Applejack said with a reassuring hand on Sunset's shoulder.

"Yeah, it's not like we're gonna stop being friends because one of us has a bad day for whatever reason, darling. Though it sounds like harsh punishment to send you to the school shrink. Ohh, those people give me the creeps!"

"Rarity in this day and age therapy is perfectly acceptable and quite useful. Not just for people who have mental illness either. Just having someone to talk too and just vent too who can give you advice just really helps." Twilight swiftly informed the fashion diva.

"Well, even animals sometimes need a pet therapist to work out their own problems. They do have one at the vet's office we all go to, remember? Dr. Fauna's daughter is the pet therapist. You know Fawn is quite good with animals and she really helped me with Angel that one time."

"Case point made, Fluttershy. Speaking of Dr. Fauna and her daughter Fawn I think it's about time we all schedule our pets three month checkup. We all usually go together to Pethaven and it's important for them to get checked out every three months anyway."

"Well, I would like this new vet to meet Spike and make sure he's good. He's not too happy with his current vet who now that he can talks has said some things not to be repeat on his opinions on the vet. So hopefully this new one you all rave about would be a better fit for him. He's in need of a checkup anyway."

"Well, sugarcube, we'll all make plans to go to Pethaven on the same weekend and make sure all our animals are alright. I think they did all have a good time on Pet Appreciation Day, still it's be a good idea to make sure that they're healthy in all ways that matter."

"Yeah, I don't want to have Tank get sick from something he could've pick up on his awesome day at our awesome school. So yeah we'll make the call later to get things schedule and figure out who will be taking us or if we've to take the Pet Bus which at least didn't raises its prices like the normal bus did."

"Pet Bus?"

"The Pet Bus, Twilight is a local bus system that helps people get their animals to the vet if you don't have means to get there yourself and since normal buses won't let animals on them for any reason other than to help those with disabilities. The Pet Bus is actually driven by Dr. Fauna's husband, His name is Lynx and he make be a bit rough at first glance like a lynx, but he's very cuddly like a teddy bear when you get to know him," Sunset explained.

"That and the bus only cost a dollar per passenger. So that's two dollars for one owner and one pet for a round trip. So that's great for those who don't have a lot of dough to spend on the bus and have more for the vet themselves. Though why someone would use cookie dough for money I don't understand. I mean how would chocolate chip cookies act like money? They're delicious but not worth much." Pinkie Pie added in puzzlement.

"For the last time, Pinkie Pie calling money 'dough' has nothing to do with baking cookies. It's just a slang term is all for money is all," Rainbow Dash explained for the umpteenth time to Pinkie Pie who still didn't get it.

"Well, I'm sure we all could go together, but for now I'm afraid I won't be around much afterschool for the next couple of weeks. I've got something important that I've got to do and so I won't see you all for a while afterschool." Sunset informed them and everyone looked at each other than at her.

"You want to tell us where you'll be and what's this big secret you've been keeping? Since Fledge guessed your outburst was brought on by fear and anger. So you wanna tell us what's really going on here, Sunset?" Rainbow Dash spoke in a slightly rude and demanding tone which made Sunset panic.

"If she doesn't wish to tell us where she'll be that's her right, girls. Don't we all deserve some privacy? Plus I still don't know a lot about friendship but I don't think we've to know what one of us is doing and where we're at every waking moment. I'm positive you don't inform everyone in the group of every little thing you do, do you?" Twilight said in Sunset's defense.

"I guess you're right, Twilight. So we all better hightail it too class and just call us later, Sunset?"

"Sure thing, Applejack. Let's get to class," Sunset said as she and Twilight were first to leave the band room but the others hung back for a second and still were talking with their eyes. Nodding in silent agreement they confirmed they'd be finding out the truth of what Sunset was hiding today if it killed them.

It was really hard to concentrate on schoolwork that day as for all the Mane Seven. Sunset had many troubling thoughts, Twilight had many thoughts too. But the rest of the group was just thinking how to be sneakier and not get caught this time when trying to track Sunset afterschool.

Well the final bell rang and everyone hurried to go home. The girls waited by the Wondercolt statue while Fledge and Twilight were sitting on the front steps of the school discussing their plans for their next date. Sunset nearly tripped over them as she was carrying a large duffel bag and it was so heavy she lost her balance but Fledge caught her.

She smiled embarrassingly as he handed her back her duffel and asked her jokily if she'd rocks in it. She replied no it wasn't rocks in the bag but she did have quite a lot of personal equipment in there.

"Well, have a good day, Sunset. See you later, Twilight! Helena's waiting for me! So see you all tomorrow! Bye!" he called out as he hurried off to catch his ride.

"Well, I've got to go catch my own ride. See you later, Twilight, I'm supposed to meet Sunfire by the 711 in 15 minutes so I've got to hurry. See you later!" as she hurried away not even seeing her friends who had hidden from view by the statue as she dashed past.

Twilight was just gathering up her things when she saw her new friends looking the way Sunset had just gone and she got a bad feeling in the pit of her stomach. So did Spike who jumped out of her backpack and they strolled over to where the girls were counting.

"What may I ask are you five up too? Whatever it is can't be good."

"Ahh! Geez, Twilight, you nearly gave us all heart attacks!"

"Didn't mean to almost give you all heart attacks. Now answer me. What are you five doing?"

"We're gonna follow Sunset Shimmer and find out what this big humongous secret she's been hiding and I've already got great ways to spy on a person since I've got the balloons and masks and all the things we'll need!" Pinkie Pie blurted out as she then went to blowing up balloons.

"Well the cat's out of the bag now. Thanks a lot, Pinkie Pie! Can you not say something that supposed to be secret? You understand why a surprise party is secret but you don't get when something else is supposed to be secret!" Rarity snapped.

"Yeah now we're caught even faster than when Helena caught us!"

"It only took according to my watch, girls, all of three minutes and 26 seconds. That is a lot quicker." Fluttershy spoke up.

"Ugh! Either way we're doing this! Twilight you coming or not?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"No. I wouldn't invade someone's right to privacy."

"Come on, Twilight! Haven't you been wondering for three days now what is so secret that Sunset would go bananas about Fluttershy asking where she got a cat? This has got to be something extra juicy and big if she's done so much to hide it!"

"If only Gabby Gums hadn't quite writing for the school paper. She could always find the right gossip to read about."

"Uh, Rarity? Did you forget Gabby Gums was Sweetie Belle and her friends who nearly ruined everyone's reputation and got a week's detention for it? Gossip isn't a good thing and it's never harmless, remember?" Applejack reminded Rarity sternly.

"Alright, point made! But still we're not backing out of this! Now let's go! We're losing the trail!" and before Twilight could do anything to stop them the five of them were off to tail Sunset Shimmer.

"Oh no, Spike! What are we going to do?! Sunset's going to the stables to train and that means her mom is gonna be there! I know Sunset's supposed to tell everyone else the truth, but this isn't the way it should happen! We've got to do something to stop this! Sunset should be able to tell everyone on her terms not because she's being force to say it! C'mon!" as they took off to try and stop them.

She manage to catch the girls before they got to the 711 where Sunset was inside buying a few things before her mom picked her up. The rest of the girls were nearing the store and would see her come out and see her get into the Honda that Twilight could tell was only two blocks away. It was stopped right now at the red light, but if she didn't act fast the girls see Sunset get into that car.

She then saw some garbage cans, clogged up rain gutters and a few boxes by the hardware store just a little before the 711. Thinking quickly she told Spike what to do.

As the girls neared the 711 they're running past the hardware store when Spike came barreling past barking angrily and took the girls feet out from under them and then he growled at the garbage cans and thankful both a raccoon and possum were eating the garbage there. Spike started to chase them both spilling the garbage everyone and getting most of on Rarity then he jumped on the boxes and chased the possum up to the gutters and it in a panic step in the already weighed down gutters which drenched everyone in a mix of muddy water, leaves and sticks.

Thankfully causing enough of a distraction that Sunset was able to exist the store and get into her mom's car and take off without being seen at all.

Twilight thanked God for helping her think so quickly and she ran up pretending to scold Spike for getting away and causing so much chaos and mess. She also made sure to keep the other girls occupied a few extra minutes as they tried to get cleaned up.

Well they're all wet, dirty and smelly. But instead of calling it quits Rarity just somehow produce a huge bag of backup clothes and also again produce somehow a dressing screen to shield them while they took ten quick minutes to get changed.

"Now that fashion fops is dealt with where did Sunset go? Anyway see her before Spike got away from Twilight. Thought he was better behaved then that, but I guess dogs will be dogs." Rarity inquired.

"Don't know, Rarity. Though how about we get something to drink first and a snack at the 711? I could use a Powerade to drink and it should help us think."

"Well, I could use some Swiss Cake Rolls myself. A quick snack cake would be nice." Fluttershy admitted.

And maybe we could use the restroom as well? So let's take a quick ten minutes in the 711 and then find out where Sunset went. And Pinkie Pie? Don't buy every kind of snack cake there is in the store? Got it?"

"Yes, Applejack."

"Great! I'll buy us all the best Powerades there are, and Fluttershy you and Pinkie Pie get us some snack cakes and then we all use the bathroom quick and we'll be off!" Rainbow Dash declared.

"Come on, Twilight, you've got to come with us now and keep Spike under control this time! I don't have a third set of backup outfits!" Rarity told her in an irritable tone and dragged Twilight against her will into the store.

Well they got done with the 711 quickly and other then clerk confirming that Sunset had been there and had bought two very large bottles of PurAqua flavored water and two packs of mini muffins he couldn't tell them where she'd gone.

"Okay so she was here and she got something to drink and eat. But two of each? Why?" asked Rainbow Dash.

"Maybe she was just extra thirsty and hungry, Dash. Now how about we try and figure out she went? Because right now it's like trying to find a needle in a haystack blind! Since we didn't see where she went or how she left!" snapped Applejack as she tore open her snack cake pack and started to eat a Hostess Cupcake and a strawberry lemonade flavored Powerade.

The other girls were drinking different Powerades and snack cakes. Rarity had grape flavored Powerade and at some Twinkies. Fluttershy fruit punch flavor and Swiss Cake Rolls, Pinkie Pie guzzled lime flavored and stuffed her mouth at the same time with Zebra Cakes. Rainbow Dash was drinking a mountain berry blast one with a glazed honey bun.

Twilight being force to accept something had just take a mixed berry flavor and chocolate chip snack cake. However she still far more concerned about keeping Sunset's secrets. Still for now she didn't think she'd have to worry about it as Sunset was now far out of sight and the others had no idea where she went.

It was then things got bad again. Due to very bad timing Twilight's cellphone went off and she had to answer it. "Hello? Yes, I'm alright, Mom. I'm just hanging with my friends right now. Don't worry weren't doing anything stupid. We just stop at the 711 and just plan to hang out for a few hours.

I'll be home by curfew and yes, I understand that my extra credit report is still very important. I'll get my homework done on time. Don't worry about me. You can just look online to confirm my location with the GPS that I know Dad put in my cell phone after my first date with Fledge.

He may've liked Fledge but he's still a dad and wants to keep tabs on me. So you'll know where I am at all times. Okay, yes I'll be home in time for dinner. Love you, Mom, bye!" as she turned the phone off and put it back in her backpack.

"Twilight you just gave me a brilliant idea! I think I know how we can find Sunset no-matter-where she is! Oh! Even Shadow Spades wouldn't have thought of this! And she's brilliant."

"You want to tell us, Rarity what this brilliant idea of yours is? Let's hope it's not about making your own hair dye again!"

"Okay, so I wasn't good at making homemade hair dye and your hair was green for a week, Applejack, but anyway this is brilliant. If Twilight's cell phone's got a GPS in it, that means so might Sunset's phone! So…"

"We can track her by her phone's GPS! Rarity you're so brilliant I could kiss you right now!"

"Well, don't Rainbow Dash, I'm not that kind of girl. But we do all have Sunset's number so ring it a quick second then hang up and that should active the GS. So let's do it girls!"

Before Twilight could stop them they all dialed Sunset's phone for a second. Long enough to get a signal then hung up, but the GPS had been located and also what towers her cell was hitting off of.

"Okay, girls, pulling up a map of Canterlot now and where Sunset's position correlates and bingo! Got where she's heading!" Rarity declared happily.

"So where she's going?! Where is she?! And how are we gonna get there?!"

"Pinkie Pie calm down! We still need to figure out where on the map she is. I'm not familiar with this part of town. Are any of you girls?" Rarity asked ask they looked at the map and the dot that was Sunset.

"No, I've never been to that part of town either, Rarity." Fluttershy admitted timidly as the girls crowed around Rarity's Smartphone.

"Never been to this part of town myself. It's like way out of the way of wherever I've gone in Canterlot. Never head in a southeast section of town. Anyone know what's out that way?" Rainbow Dash asked as she starched her head.

"The only thing southeast of town is the Canterlot Stables and a few local farms and that's where we go to sell at the farmers market. It's just a large stretch of farmland and open country out there. Pretty much the agriculture part of Canterlot." Applejack answered when she saw where Sunset was heading.

"Stables? As in horse stables? Like with farms with chickens, pigs and other smelly livestock? How unclean that sounds!"

"Rarity is honest-to-god down-to-earth folks who make their own living and yes they've beasts of burden which they breed in addition to cultivate a lot of local fruits and vegetables. My family isn't the only family in Canterlot with a plot of land used to grow things, alright?"

"Well, maybe she's going to the stables to feel less homesick. She was born a unicorn pony. Maybe being around horses makes her feel better and a bit more at home. That's my guess," Fluttershy proposed.

"Well, instead of playing guessing games we could catch that bus over on the other side of the street and go there and see what's going on! But we better hurry because the bus looks about ready to shove off!" Pinkie Pie informed them and everyone bolt across the street to catch the bus and luckily had the right amount for the fare.

When the driver asked where they'd be wanting off they said the Canterlot Stables and he said that was gonna take forty-five minutes to get too so just hand on. He'd at least three stops to make before they reached it.

Twilight was really panicking and trying to think of someway to warn Sunset but she couldn't call or text her without the girls knowing and then they'd grill her for what she knew. But unless the bus broke down which didn't happen very often as the buses were very well maintained she was out of lucky.

So the best she could do was pray that by the time they got to the stables that Sunset would be home already. The bus ride was uneventful and the only thing the girls all complained about was the lousy music on the radio that made the trip longer as the driver was listening to really old folk's music.

Finally they disembarked and took a good look around as the bus pulled away before they could ask when the return bus was. But this place was very homey for Applejack and Fluttershy liked it as well. Rarity wasn't happy at all and Rainbow Dash was more into finding Sunset and Pinkie Pie was too distracted by a pair of old donkeys to really pay attention.

Twilight on the other hand was scared out of her mind and trying to think of how to get everyone out of her because she could spot far away in the small parking spot Sunfire's Honda so Sunset was here! This was going from bad to worse.

Taking in the sight of the Canterlot Stables was a thing of beauty to behold. There was an enormous extremely emerald green horse pasture that had to be about 2 and half acres that was enclosed with a horse friendly fence made of both brightly painted wood and woven mesh.

There was a large brightly red colored horse stable on the left side with a horse arena on the right and both were very large. But it well kept and very active and there were a lot of hustle and bustling going on.

From a glance they'd saw that there was a few basic riding lessons taking place in one part of the huge arena but also a lot of teenagers doing some kind of serious training and then there was the sound of horses coming from the stables.

"I suggest we try the stable first. Let's go and walk careful, because there will be plenty of manure when you've got this many horses and I'm guessing that they've got at least over forty here. Follow me and try not look too out of place." Applejack led the way to the stables which they could already smell a lot of things that made Rarity wish she'd worn something different and brought industrial air freshening spray.

They made their way into the barn and saw indeed quite more horses than expected. Applejack was rattling off what the different breeds were, hold old they were, which a mare was and which a stallion was and so on and so forth.

No-one noticed them at first because of how busy everyone was. Between the stable hands feeding the horses along with the groomers, and vets it was just very chaotic and easy to overlook them.

Then all of a sudden a husky voice called out at them. "Hey! You girls! Stop where you are!" and they hurried the sound of heavy work boots coming their way as they froze.

"Now we're gonna get it and before we can even find Sunset. This is gonna be so not awesome!" Rainbow Dash hissed looking like she was thinking if they should run or not.

"Let's not panic girls and just stay put. We don't want to get into trouble. So no bolting, Rainbow Dash!" Fluttershy hissed back and everyone also grabbed Pinkie Pie just given her exuberant and hyper activeness they needed to control her for a few moments to make sure they didn't get in trouble.

Turning they saw a boy in his late teens approach him. He was quite good-looking to be honest. He was a tall boy that had a great tan along with a great body and longish auburn hair and dark green eyes dressed in faded jeans, an ebony black shirt with a bright red handkerchief, dusty work boots and a hat similar to Applejack's.

The girls tried to look innocent and not guilty of any wronging doing and still covering Pinkie Pie's mouth while allowing her to breathe but not speak and they all looked very worried.

"Hey there, didn't mean to scare you girls. Though, I'd like to know what you girls are doing here. You're not a member of the stables since I know every member and whose horses is whose. I've got too as my uncle who owns this place would skin me alive if I didn't know all that. Being serious not joking on that.

So what are you doing here? My name is Butch by the way. Butch Coleman, my Uncle Max Coleman in charge here. So may I ask again if it's not too rude of me what your six are doing in a place you obviously don't belong in or at least not been in before?" the handsome boy asked them politely.

Seeing that he wasn't going to skin them or seemed angry with them but rather just curious they relaxed. Rarity also noticed that this boy seemed to be checking Applejack out with great interest. Seeing that she whispered to her quickly.

"Applejack, you fit in here and this handsome boy seems to like you. So use your country girl charm and get the information we want and make sure we don't get into serious trouble!"

"What?! You kidding me! You want me to flirt?! You nuts?!" she whispered back but couldn't hide the fact she was blushing like an overripe tomato herself.

"Don't have much of a choice, Applejack, so flirt! Or we'll be going to the stockade!" hissed Rainbow Dash urgently.

Groaning Applejack straighten her hat and smiled as flirty as she could manage. "Hey there, Butch. My name is Applejack and these are my best friends, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Twilight Sparkle."

He grinned at Applejack showing he'd very white even teeth. "Nice to meet your acquaintance Applejack. Mind if I call you Jackie?"

"Um I prefer my real name, but sure you can call me Jackie if you'd like."

"Okay, Jackie, so you seem like an honest young woman, so mind telling me what you and your friends are doing here?"

"We're trying to find a friend of ours we think might be here. She's worrying all of us a bit and we think she might be here, but none of us have actually been here before. I mean my family's driven past the stables on our way to bring our apples from our apple farm to the market up the road and other tasty apple treats and all, though we've never stopped here."

"Who's your friend and I can tell you if she's here or not?"

"We're looking for a girl by the name of Sunset Shimmer. Heard or seen her?"

"Yeah, everyone knows Sunset at the stables. She's one of the best students ever to come take lessons here. My older cousin Ruthie was the one to train her for the past three years. It's almost like she was horse herself in another life seeing how she seems to understand them so well like they're one or something.

Though if you're looking for her she's with the others who qualified for the Junior Level Equestrian Games that are coming up fast. She should be with her horse Solar Flare right now in the arena with the others who qualified for the Games. I can show you over there but please don't do anything to startle the horses or distract the riders. We don't want any accidents."

"Show us the way, Butch."

"She doesn't know you're all here right? Since you did say you've been concerned, but she doesn't know you're here?"

"Yes, she has no clue we're here but we won't causes a problem. So could you at least tell us when the bus will be back to take us all home?"

"Well the next bus doesn't get here, Jackie, till almost seven-thirty. You've got like three hours till the bus comes back. Still you all need a lift home I can give you all a lift. If you don't mind riding in a pickup truck. Little cramp but will get you home."

"Well see if that's necessary darling. We could always just call our families to come pick us up." Rarity spoke up as she tried to walk around all the manure.

"Well, hate to say this but we don't have much of a cellphone signal here. We do have a lot of telephones in my Aunt Wendy's office."

"Is your whole family in charge of the stables, Butch?"

"Pretty much, Jackie. The land this place was built on been in our family for five generations and we all take care of it and help any way we can. All my cousins and siblings do some kind of work. I'm just the eldest boy in the family so maintaining the order of the stables and all who come here is my job."

So as he walked them over to where the training was going on he and Applejack were just chatting up a storm and the girls were all thinking the same thing. Look like Applejack was smitten and so was this boy.

Twilight almost forgot as they neared the arena that Sunset still wouldn't want this, but since it was already confirmed she was here what more could she do? Other then make sure Sunset's family didn't make an appearance.

They reached the enclosed arena which had not a great deal of people but still a fair amount. Butch showed them some good seats to watch and not be seen and spent some time with them explaining what was going on and what the Games were about and just a brief history of horse shows and facts.

He then pointed out which one was Sunset at the moment training. The girls watched in silent amazement as they saw Sunset and her beautiful Arabian Solar Flare enter the arena.

Butch was still doing some mild commentary as they all watch transfixed as Sunset started to do many of the common events with horse shows like jumping which she did perfectly, but was also doing a few other things they didn't know about. She also seem to want to look good physically.

Butch explained that part of the Games was also about the physical appearance of the rider and their horse and their overall presentation. Though he was right when he said that Sunset was almost one with her horse and they just couldn't believe her talent in this. Even for someone who use to be a pony she was even more talented than they thought.

Finally after her practice time ended she was heading back to the barn and again Butch offer to escort the girls around saying he felt for today he should keep an eye on them.

So the girls followed him to the beautiful and clean stall that was Solar Flare's. It even had her name on a golden nameplate on the door and Sunset was feeding and giving her an extra grooming.

As she was grooming she was sorta half singing half talking to her horse and it was just very nice overall. With her back turned she had no idea the girls were there and Twilight just knew she'd done all she could to keep her promise but wish there was some way out of this for Sunset but there was none.

"Sunset?" called out Butch as they approached.

"Hey, Butch! How are you doing today?" she asked in a friendly manner as she couldn't see the girls yet.

"I'm perfectly fine and you're terrific in fact there are some others who'd like to tell you how impressed they're with your performance today. Jackie? You and your friends can come out now."

"Jackie? I don't know anyone named Jackie… oh my god!" Sunset exclaimed in surprise as her friends came into view. She want to vanish right there and then but couldn't.

"Hey, girls….whatcha doing here?" she asked nervously.

"We came to see what in tarnation you're up too." Applejack started to say.

"Yeah, this is quite a shock that's for sure darling."

"This is like a big surprise for us all and I've thrown quite a few surprise parties."

"Your horse is such a beauty. She's lovely and so where you in the arena!"

Twilight didn't say anything but looked guilty.

"Twilight did you tell them this is where I was going to be?!" she accused angrily.

"No! I kept my promise and didn't say anything! I swear!"

"Hold on! What promise? You knew about this, Twilight? Also Sunset she didn't tell us anything we tracked you here by using your cellphone's GPS. But cared to explain what's going on?"

But before Sunset could say anything the worst thing for her to happen happened. At that moment a voice called out to her. "Sunset? Sunset!"

"Oh, please no. Not now…" Sunset whimpered but it was too late as Sunfire walked into view.

"Hello, Butch, nice seeing you today. Everything okay?"

"Yeah, everything fine, Sunfire. Maintain order over chaos is what I do best. I was busy today showing your daughter's friends around. They're apparently concerned about her wellbeing."

"Oh, so you're Sunset's friends. Nice to finally meet all of you. Sunset did you already tell them or not?"

"I was just about too tell them…Sunfire. They um…caught me by surprised and I was just about to tell them the truth."

"Alright, I'll let you tell them all the whole story. I need to go into the main office for a few minutes. Something happened at work and of course I can't get a signal here when I need one. So, is it okay, Butch if I go to the office to use the phone right?"

"Yes, Sunfire. You're not the first parent needing to use the landlines as I told Jackie and her friends here we've got just about no signal here."

"Alright then. I'll go take care of this matter and then I guess I can give your friends a lift back home. Since I don't think you want to wait as long as it takes for the next bus. Be back in twenty minutes, honey."

"Sure thing, Sunfire. We'll be waiting," she replied as Sunfire gave her a quick hug and kiss and hurried out to go find out what the trouble at work was.

All this time everyone was struck dumb and slowly the puzzle pieces were forming a clear picture in all their heads. It took a few moments to really take in the whole conversation and all that was going on.

"Butch? Um why don't you go get my friends something to drink?" Sunset asked numbly to the handsome boy.

"I can do that. I'll be back in a little bit. Um do you girls want water or we do have some bottles of Sunny-D if you want something tangier?"

"Sunny-D please, Butch."

"Alright I'll be back with seven Sunny-D's in two shakes of a lamb's tail, Jackie. Just don't go anywhere else till I get back. Okay?"

"We'll stay right here, don't worry."

"Okay be back in ten!" and he took off leaving the girls looking at Sunset who looked like she wanted to die right there and then.

"Go ahead! Yell! Scream! Do whatever you want to me! Just get this over with! I'm already so full of shame and anguish that I just want to die right now. So go ahead do what I know you're gonna do and just get the pain over with!" Sunset with tears in her eyes.

"Why in the world would you think we'd yell or do anything to punish you for something, darling? We just want to know what's going on. Is that beautiful woman your mom?" Rarity asked curiously.

"I know that woman! She is the one who adopted Daybreak! You're the one she was getting her for?" Fluttershy asked stunned.

"By the way before anything else is said, Sunset, you're beyond freakin' awesome in that arena! I mean that was one of the coolest mind-blowing thing I've ever seen and we've seen a lot of freaky things since the other Twilight came here and shook things up!"

"Yeah, this is totally mindboggling! And it looks like you had a lot of fun with how you're laughing with joy when you're training!"

"It was honestly a great thing to watch you on this magnificent beauty here!"

"Thanks everyone. Well, I guess there no getting around the truth now. Alright. Sunfire Daydreamer is my foster mom. I live with her and her husband Yin Yang in the small gated community of the "Canterlot Palace Gardens" I've lived with them almost from the moment I came to this world.

They're very cool, loving and amazing parents. Twilight can attest to that, can't you?"

"Yes, they're very cool and interesting people and your home with them is equally as cool."

"Wait a second!" Pinkie Pie said as she somehow produce a cup of water drank it and spewed in shock.

"Home? You've been to Sunset's home, Twilight and meet her parents before now?" Rarity asked in shock to which Twilight nodded.

"Sunset took me to her home the same day Fledge asked me out and I had dinner with her family."

"Not only that both our families just had dinner together on Saturday. That's why Twilight was busy," she sighed took a deep breath and told her friends the exact same story she'd already told Twilight.

When she finished she didn't know what to expect but she did feel better. For a moment no-one spoke and just didn't do much.

Then one by one all the girls could say was they'd only wish that Sunset had just told them this all sooner and that they didn't hate her or condemn her or feel anything bad at all.

By the time both Butch and Sunfire got back things had worked out nicely and it looked like the girls would be back to watch Sunset train some more but this time with her knowledge. So before Sunfire took them all home the girls all went to the office with Butch so he could at least give them membership cards that showed they're friends of a member and that he'd promised to always help them anytime they'd come by.

He said he hoped they all came back soon and Applejack seemed really eager to come back and see him again. So Sunfire listen happily as she drove the girls back to town as the girls all talking a mile a minute and just having a good time.

She dropped everyone off at home and then headed to their house and turned to face her daughter. "So was it really as bad as you thought it be? To tell the truth to all of them? Because based on how you'll gossiping as I was driving you all seemed happy and okay with each other. So you feel better now?"

"It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be no. They didn't react the way I thought they would but looks like things are looking up and at least we can all hang out while I train and they can cheer me on when the games actually happen. Right now is just training for the next two months as the games don't really start till three months from now."

"Well, at least you finally told the truth and the world didn't end did it?"

"No it didn't end and I've kept my end of the bargain. So let's get home and tell Yin Yang about it shall we? By the way what was the problem that work was trying to get a hold of you? Anyone who's been to the stables knows they've got almost no signal there for cell phone."

"The problem was a few of the new interns accidently destroyed one of the models we're using to help advertise for an upcoming charity party at the college. I believe your friend Fledge should be able to tell you more about since it was his parents who asked us to help them with this and any future needs in advertising for them."

"Well, you've never failed no-matter-how many mishaps or setbacks to get a job done on time. So I don't think you'll fail in this one either."

"Don't worry, we've backups for a reason. So let's go tell your father what happened today?"

Well things went well enough for Sunset as her mom told her dad what happened at the stables and it just felt like things would be okay from now on. Most importantly her friends didn't hate her and maybe she'd finally could stop hating herself.

It was very late that night when the magical journal became alive. Though very tired in all ways she still opened it too read what was going on in Equestria. She found this time both Princess Twilight and Prince Fledge were writing to her together.

"Dear Sunset Shimmer,

Well first off thank you for answering my question about the holidays of humans. It was really delightful to hear all about it. Sounds very indeed cool and fun there with what you celebrate in your world.

I agree with my husband it's nice to know your world has similar holidays as we do. We'd a huge Hearth Warming Eve party here not too long ago and I read my favorite holiday story "A Hearth Warming Tale" to Starlight to help her understand that there more to the holiday then she originally thought.

Though as my wife will also say we had a lot of other things to worry about after the holiday was over. We all went to Manehatten to help Rarity open her third store. Which had just about as many of its own problems as the one in Canterlot.

Not that this time was about an overbearing and controlling manger taking over. We just had problems getting the store ready for the opening because of so many problems we didn't anticipate happening.

It was almost like a zoo of chaos to be honest. Between the raccoons, the dance club, lack of employees and the landlord crazy daughter and Twilight here not knowing how to really organize in an approved way it was just chaos.

Not to mention it was in a tell-all newspaper review which we didn't want Rarity to really read. But we got all the problems resolves and Fledge added his own touch to make the grand opening of the new store memorable.

I had some of my fairy friends led by my favorite fairy Sabiya do a bit of a light display outside and a few of my naiad did some water ballet outside. So I took care of how the outside of the building looked. It was very fun!

Still we've had so much going on we've not exactly had a lot of alone time. Which we both wish we had more of. There still is some things we need to do to both my castle to make it equally our home. Like we need to finish making the bedroom perfect. So tomorrow we'll go see what options they have for bedroom curtains.

Twilight can we not just do what I suggested and use the curtains from my parents' bedroom? Why do you get to make so many decisions that we're supposed to make together? We're married and we've to have some compromises here!

Okay, Fledge we'll talk about it more when we're not busy writing to Sunset. No need to drag everypony into our personal business.

Tell that to Spike who I caught the other day using our personal bathroom to clip his toenails. You realize how disgusting that was to clean up?

I'll talk to him about it later, Fledge.

So anyway we both hope you're doing well and that you've more to tell us soon and we hope to have more to say to you as well.

Talk to you again soon.

Your friends Princess Twilight Sparkle and Prince Fledge Dreamwings."

Closing her journal she had a strange expression of almost pity and amusement. "Daybreak? I don't know much about relationships seeing how I only dated Flash to be more popular so I don't know much about that and I'm not married like Sunfire and Yin Yang are either.

Though I'm willing to bet that Princess Twilight and Prince Fledge are about to have a bit of a martial spat. Judging from the contents of this letter. That would be better than those stupid soap operas! Though there no doubt about it, Daybreak.

I'm pretty sure they're about to have one huge spat. Still even Sunfire and Yin Yang occasionally have spats, but it's never ended their marriage. So I hope that Twilight and Fledge can work out what I just know is gonna happen! Well time to sleep. See you in the morning!" as Sunset and her kitten drifted back to sleep and soon were contently smiling and dreaming.