Half an hour later Forte, Spike and the girls were walking up the garden path at Forte's house. Still wearing the fancy costumes that Rarity made, except for Sunset and Forte. They wouldn't be staying long as there was an evening carnival at CHS that would last until late at night, and as winners of Battle of the Bands, the Rainbooms would be playing.

"This world is so amazing. So far I've only seen the school, Applejack's and Pinkie's house and a bit of the town but seeing more of this world is....well, amazing!

"A pity you couldn't see more of it, or watch a football game at the Pegasopolis stadium. Especially on a Champions League night when the atmosphere is absolutely electric."

"Maybe next time if possible," Twilight suggested.

"Sure, why not?"

Forte opened the front door and the others followed him in.

"MUM! DAD! I'm home and I've brought friends!"

Forte heard footsteps approach.

"Hi Mum."

"Hi sweetie," she replied, a little shocked to see so many girls with him, "Oh my, these are your friends?."

"Yeah. You've already met Sunset, Pinkie and Rarity. The others are Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack and Twilight."

"Twilight? Ah yes, the girl from out of town. Though I must say I like your outfits, Where'd you get them?"

"I made them," Rarity said, "I didn't make any for Sunset and Forte but, there's a reason for that."

"We can tell you if you like?" suggested Forte, "Is dad here?"

"Yeah he's here. He's in the front room.Go and see him, your friends to."

"OK."

Forte went into the front room, followed by his friends who said 'Hello' to Fioritura as they passed her.

"Hi Dad."

Travertine looked up and saw Forte and the same girls he saw a few weeks ago.

He grinned in delight, "Hi son, are these fine young ladies staying here tonight after the carnival?"

"If that's OK?"

"'Course it's fine, there's plenty of room. Sit yourselves down girls, make yourselves comfortable."

Travertine watched as Forte sat down with Sunset, not wearing her leather jacket, very close to him and holding his hands.

He grinned internally.

That's my boy.

He looked at his other friends and despite seeing them before, except the purple haired one, questioned how he didn't see it before.

"I don't believe this," Travertine said aloud.

"Dad?"

Travertine looked at Rainbow, "You're Blaze's girl aren't you?"

Rainbow went wide eyed, "Yeah, how did you know?"

"I went to school with him. And now my lad and his girl are at school together. Wait here a moment, I'm off to get something. Something I've only just now remembered."

The girls looked at Forte expectantly but he only shrugged in return. His mother walked in.

"After the carnival tonight we'll pick you all up from the school and bring you back here."

"OK, thanks mum."

A few minutes later Travertine walked back into the front room with something in his hands.

"Have a look at these," he said showing the group some photos.

Rainbow and Forte went beet red in embarrassment.

Everyone else 'awwww'ed.

"Oh my," said Rarity, "Baby Rainbow and Baby Forte sleeping next to each other. Simply adorable."

Forte and Rainbow looked at each other, mortified.

"I had a feeling you were Blaze's lass, you know I used to babysit you sometimes when he was away on match days and your mother was also away. Had it not been for my work you and Forte would've probably grown up together."

Forte and Rainbow looked at each other again, less mortified.

"What was Rainbow like growing up?" asked Applejack.

"You don't need to answer that," Rainbow answered quickly.

Travertine laughed, "Don't worry Dashie, I'll keep quiet."

Rainbow blushed a little, "Thanks."

"No problem.........what's with all the snazzy outfits?"

"It's complicated."

Forte and the girls retold the events of the previous few days. Travertine and Fioritura at first didn't believe them until Spike started talking.

That went some way in convincing them.

"So when you play music really well, you transform into...." Travertine said, trying to confirm what he had already been told.

"We 'pony-up'," Forte replied.

"And again, what does that involve?"

"With me I grow a pair of pony ears out of my head that replace my human ears, I grow a pair of wings on my back and I grow a ponytail," he replied, motioning to his hair on the last part to avoid confusion. 'Grow a ponytail' could be misinterpreted.

Travertine, and Fioritura, were still in a little shock at recent events. They had hoped he would do well at school and open up a little more but this went beyond anything they ever expected. They could hardly complain though, the school had excellent standards, Forte's grades were outstanding and he had a girlfriend.

"Well, despite how crazy it all sounds you'll have our support in your.....adventures, all of you," Fioritura stated.

"Thanks mum."

"Now, it's time you were getting off to the carnival. You don't want to miss out on all the fun, do you?"

"Absolutely not!" exclaimed Pinkie.

"Come on girls, fun awaits us," he said before turning to his parents, "See you guys later."

"We'll see you later."

A short while later Forte and Co were outside CHS where it appeared workmen had been busy while everyone else was at the show. At the fair was a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, a House of Horrors, food stall and a stage for their performance later.

Several other students had already arrived and were already enjoying themselves.

"Tonight, we're gonna have ourselves a real good time," Forte said aloud.

"There'll be no stopping us!" Rainbow said defiantly, raising a fist into the air.

"Then let's not stand around yapping," said Applejack.

The ennead set forth into the carnival, the lights and music bringing it to life and giving it an electrifying atmosphere. Sunset and Forte, holding hands, went over to the candy floss stall. Forte, being the gentleman he is, bought some for Sunset which earned him another kiss on the cheek.

"So, where do you want to head first?" asked Forte.

"I think the others are going into the Hall of Invisible Walls first."

"That'll be fun."

"You ever been in one before?"

"Yeah. Accidentally walked into one of the walls."

Sunset giggled.

"Hey, in my defence the wall was see through."

Sunset giggled more and took a bite out of Forte's candy floss.

"You've got your own."

"I wanted to see what yours tasted like."

"We got the same flavour."

"They could still be different."

"How?"

"Well........yours could have had more sugar in it."

Forte responded by pinching a lump of Sunset's candy floss and ate it.

"Now we're even."

The two started laughing and rejoined the others who were at the entrance of the Hall of Invisible Walls.

"I'm totally gonna sail through this!"

"Save yer boastin' fer after ya get through it."

Rainbow rolled her eyes, "You're only scared that I'll beat you at it."

"I am not!"

"Prove it."

Applejack thought a moment and looked at Rarity, "Loser has ta model a dress fer Rarity."

Rainbow looked to Rarity who nodded in acceptance.

"I don't mind darlings, I have few commissions coming up so a model will come in very useful."

"Than that settles it," Rainbow replied.

The group went to the entrance and went inside.

Very quickly, some became lost.

Forte again walked into one of the walls, much to Sunset's amusement. Pinkie got to the end on a matter of seconds; it was like she knew in advance the layout of the passages. Eventually though, they all made it to the exit.

"Well I for one am greatly looking forward to seeing you model for me Rainbow."

"Yeah yeah whatever."

"Really Rainbow Dash, you have no idea how spectacular and beautiful you look in a dress."

"But dresses are so......girly."

"But you are a girl," Forte said.

Rainbow deadpanned at him, "Say Rarity, do you think you could make Forte a dress?"

A chill went up his spine and he quickly looked to Rarity in panic.

"Don't bring Forte into this, you lost the bet and now you'll have to deal with the consequences."

"Thank you Rarity," Forte replied in relief.

"You're welcome darling."

The group moved on to some of the other games that were dotted around. Rainbow and Applejack challenged each other on the High-Striker. Both very nearly almost hit the bell.

Spike very nearly almost took the bell clean off.

Forte bought some ice cream for everyone before they went on the roller coaster.

Fortunately the ice cream didn't come back up.

But Rarity did get a face full of popcorn due to the laws of motion.

They moved on to some bendy mirrors. Rarity stood in front of one of them and it caused her head to be enlarged in the reflection, much to the amusement of the others. Pinkie broke reality and physics when she jumped up and down whilst her reflection remained motionless.

None of the others dared asking how she did it.

The time came when they were due to perform. They made their way to the changing rooms where their costumes awaited.

"When did you get time to make these?" asked Forte, looking at his outfit.

"A lady has her ways darling."

"Come on guys, let's get changed and rock 'n' roll!"

After a few minutes they had all changed into their outfits.

Twilight's outfit consisted of a glittery purple sleeveless top that went over one shoulder. The star-shaped multi-layered skirt was purple with black underneath. The skirt had white stars on the black, and dark purple starts on the purple. The skirt itself was held up by a white belt purple star studs. She had skin tight purple leggings and her knee high boots were dark and light purple, complete with her purple star mark where laces would normally go. On her face over her left eye, her purple star mark was painted on her face.

Rarity had made herself a light blue skirt with frills, covered by a glittery purple waistcoat like top. Plain black leggings and purple high heel shoes helped complete her outfit. Her shoes clasps' had sparkling diamonds studded all the way around. Like Twilight, she also had her emblem painted over her left eye; a diamond in her case.

Fluttershy's outfit top was lime green with a pink and black criss-cross on top. A belt with a butterfly buckle and purple knee length skirt, complete with sparkling glitter; magenta knee high boots with green butterfly patterns completed her outfit. Simple black bracelets with red hearts positioned around the bracelet helped add style to her boots. A butterfly was also painted pink over her left eye.

Applejacks' outfit consisted of a short sleeve top that was light blue, cowgirl style and with yellow lapels. She also wore elbow length yellow gloves and and red leggings. Cowgirl boots and a slight different cowgirl hat completed the cowgirl image, and like the others; she too had her emblem, a red apple, painted over her left eye. Her boots had a golden bracelets clasped together by apple-gems were the laces would normally go.

Pinkie had a glitter, bright blue top with a red heart in the middle, a pink knee length skirt with darker pink circles giving a polka-dot style appearance and glittery crimson high heel shoes, complete with blue ribbons tied into a bow, helped finish off her ensemble. Her emblem was a blue balloon and like the others, was painted over her left eye

Rainbow's outfit consisted of a white top with red outlines on the lapels, which were also styled to resemble lightning bolts. She had a glittery red mini skirt and blue leggings, and her footwear were white shin high boots, which like the top, had white lightning bolts with a red outline sprout out from behind and slightly from the sides. Shiny gold bracelets were fastened around Rainbow's boots just above the foot and ankle. She had a darker blue lightning point painted over her left eye to stand out against her light blue skin.

Sunset's outfit was a red and orange strapless, sleeveless skirt with frills that flickered outwards to mimic the behaviour of the sun. She had dark yellow leggings and orange thigh high boots with golden bracelets wrapped around just above the ankle. Her emblem, a blazing sun, was also painted over her left eye.

Forte's outfit was an electric blue, sleeveless jacket that sparkled and glittered like a disco ball, his trousers were plain black and his footwear consisted of silver thigh high boots. Though reluctant at first he joined in his bandmates and had his emblem, a lightning bolt treble clef, painted over his left eye.

"We look totally awesome!"

"We ARE awesome!" added Forte.

"Damn right we are!" she replied bumping fists with him.

Forte looked over to Sunset. He felt a lump in his throat as he tried to speak.

"Unicorn got your tongue Pony Boy?" asked Sunset teasingly.

Forte smiled, "A beautiful girl has."

Sunset blushed profusely and wrapped her arms around his neck, "What makes this girl beautiful?"

"Her cyan eyes that sparkle like crystal clear water, her warm personality that radiates like the sun all around her.....a smile that could brighten even the darkest of days."

Sunset, on the verge of tears, simply kissed Forte on the lips.

"Thank you......it means a lot to hear you say that."

"Any time Sunny."

The others watched on in joy at the scene before them. So many happy memories would be made tonight alone.

"OK OK," said Rainbow, "Enough with the mushy stuff, we have a performance to rock!"

Rarity rolled her eyes, "Leave it to you Rainbow to complain about a beautiful budding romance."

"I'm not complaining," she defended, "I'm happy for them but we have an audience to entertain."

The octet made their way on stage and took their positions, the crowd cheering them on, Spike included whom was amongst the crowd. They began to play, 'Perfect Day For Fun'.

Oh, aw aw oh, oh, oh, aw oh uh
Oh, aw aw oh, oh, oh

Looking forward to some fun
Knowing all our friends will come
'Cause we're here to spend the day
Everybody come and play

Let's all pick a meeting place
And we're gonna have to race
Everybody follow me
This is where we're gonna be!

With my best friends, though we're different
We feel like we still belong
And every day it makes our friendship strong

Let's go find some games to win
Everybody's joining in
'Cause we're having such a blast

Doesn't matter win or lose
When we always are amused
My friends stand out in a crowd
Having fun and laughing loud!

With my best friends, we can depend
They will always follow through
It's a perfect day for fun when I spend it with you

Oh, aw aw oh, oh, oh, aw oh uh
Oh, aw aw oh, oh, oh

Taking photos with my friends
Never want this day to end
But the time is going fast
So come on and make it last

Get the band up on the stage
Doesn't matter what your age
Hear the music, now's your chance
Everybody start to dance!

With my best friends, though we're different
We feel like we still belong
And every day it makes our friendship strong

With my best friends, we can depend
They will always follow through
There's a guarantee for fun when I spend it with you

The band finished the song and the audience gave a rapturous round of applause. Each one of them had, during the song, pony-upped much to the delight of the crowd. They immediately started on their next song.

Friendship Through The Ages.

Nothing stays the same for long
But when it changes doesn't mean it's gone
Time will always get away
As it leaves behind another day

Things may come and things may go
Some go fast and some go slow
Few things last, that's all I know
But friendship carries on through the ages

Things may come and things may go
Some go fast and some go slow
Few things last, that's all I know
But friendship carries on through the ages

Been around for a long time
Rocking out hard 'cause I'm in my prime
Maybe it'll change further down the line
But my friendship carries on through the ages

Every single style has something
Different it can say
There's nothing wrong with being unique
And special in your own way

Maybe you wanna be a pop star
Get your fifteen minutes of fame, wha, ah! Ah, oh!
That won't last forever
But friendship remains the same, ah-oh, oh!

Things may come and things may go
Some go fast and some go slow
Few things last, that's all I know
But friendship carries on through the ages

But friendship carries on

Things may come and things may go
Some go fast and some go slow
Few things last, that's all I know
But friendship carries on through the ages

But friendship carries on
Ohhh-oh, carries on...

There was another round of applause and the students were calling for more.

"KEEP ON ROCKING RAINBOOMS!"

"DON'T STOP ROCKING!"

"ROCK 'N' ROLL ALL NIGHT AND PARTY EVERY DAY!"

Another round of applause filled the night sky, Rainbow unsurprisingly lavishing in the attention and praise. She turned her head to Sunset though and gave her a nod. Sunset stepped forward to the centre stage, her solo song about to begin.

Power
Was all I desired (I desired, all I desired)
But all that grew inside of me
Was the darkness I acquired

When I began to fall
And I lost the path ahead
That's when your friendship found me
And it lifted me instead

Like a phoenix burning bright
In the sky
I'll show there's another side to me
You can't deny

I may not know what the future holds
But hear me when I say
That my past does not define me
'Cause my past is not today

Ambition
Is what I believed
Would be the only way
To set me free

But when it disappeared
And I found myself alone
That's when you came and got me
And it felt like I was home

Like a phoenix burning bright
In the sky
I'll show there's another side to me
You can't deny

I may not know what the future holds
But hear me when I say
That my past does not define me

'Cause my past is not today

The whole crowd burst into a passionate round of applause, stunned at the outstanding performance they had just witnessed.

"You're awesome Sunset!"

"We forgive you Sunset!"

Sunset felt her heart swell with joy. To hear her fellow students come round to her side and forgive her for her past actions meant a great deal to her. She looked over to Forte and the two shared a passionate kiss.

The crowd went wild and their cheers could probably be heard from Vanhoover.

The Rainbooms bowed to their audience and began leaving the stage, their performance over.

"ENCORE! ENCORE!" roared the students.

The Rainbooms looked at each other.

"Let's not disappoint our fans," Rainbow said, "Shake Your Tail guys."

They quickly retook their positions and started playing.

We've just got the day to get ready
And there's only so much time to lose
Because tonight, yeah, we're here to party
So let's think of something fun to do

We don't know (we don't know) what's gonna happen
We just know (we just know) it's gonna feel right
All our friends are here
And it's time to ignite the lights!

Shake your tail 'cause we're here to have a party tonight
Shake your tail, shake your tail
Shake your tail 'cause we're here to have a party tonight
Shake your tail, shake your tail

So what you didn't get it right the first time

Laugh it off, no one said it is a crime

Do your thing, you know you're an original

Your ideas are so funny that they're crimina

Ohhh-ahh!
We've just got the day to get ready
And there's only so much time to lose
Because tonight, yeah, we're here to party
So let's think of something fun to do

We don't know (we don't know) what's gonna happen
We just know (we just know) it's gonna feel right
All our friends are here
And it's time to ignite the lights!

Shake your tail 'cause we're here to have a party tonight
Shake your tail, shake your tail
Shake your tail 'cause we're here to have a party tonight
Shake your tail, shake your tail
Shake your tail 'cause we're here to have a party tonight
Shake your tail, shake your tail
Shake your tail 'cause we're here to have a party tonight
Shake your tail, shake your tail

Shake your tail 'cause we're here to have a party tonight!

The audience once again cheered the rockstars-to-be. The Rainbooms, bowed to their audience and left the stage, returning to the changing rooms.

"That was absolutely AWESOME!"

"It most certainly was," Rarity agreed, "And Sunset I must say your solo performance was simply sublime. Your passion and genuine sincerity really shone through."

Sunset blushed at the adoration, "I guess it's because I really did mean it."

"I'm really proud of you Sunset," Twilight said smiling, "You've come so far these past few weeks. Princess Celestia would be proud of what you've accomplished."

Sunset winced slightly at the name, "How...how is she?"

"......She misses you. You do know you're welcome back?"

"Really? I thought I'd never be welcome back after what I did."

"She forgave you......a long time ago. And she's not angry about the incident at the Fall Formal."

"She isn't? Why?"

"Because you saw the error of your ways and changed yourself for the better, accepting the magic of friendship."

Sunset was nearly in tears, "She really isn't mad at me?"

"No."

Sunset remained silent for a few seconds, pondering what to do.

"Could you pass a message on for me, to Princess Celestia"?

"Of course."

"Tell her.......I'm sorry."

Twilight smiled softly and hugged Sunset, "I promise I will do."

The two friends embraced each other and were quickly joined by the others.

"GROUP HUG!" yelled Pinkie.

The embrace ended and the Rainbooms made their way outside to enjoy the carnival some more. As they went out, Vice Principal Luna approached them.

"Well done on your performance tonight Rainbooms. I can see it was the correct decision to name you victors in the Battle of the Bands. Particularly you Sunset, you have come a long way since the Fall Formal."

"Thanks Vice Principal Luna," replied Sunset.

"Are you looking forward to tomorrow's performance?"

"Of course we are! We're the Rainbooms! We were born to rock!"

Luna smiled at Rainbow's enthusiasm, "I'm glad to hear that Rainbow Dash, my sister and I are very much looking forward to it. In the meantime, enjoy the rest of the carnival. Goodnight students."

"Goodnight Vice Principal Luna," they replied in unison.

The gang watched as Luna walked away to see how other students were doing.

"So girls, what are we doing now?" asked Forte.

"Let's ride the roller-coaster again!"

"Very well but this time Pinkie, no popcorn," replied Rarity.

An hour later the carnival ended and students tiredly made their way home, the Rainbooms made their way over to Fioritura and Travertine who were waiting in the car park.

"Hi Mum, hi Dad."

"Hi sweetie, you're looking snazzy in that outfit."

"Thanks, Rarity made it."

"I thought she might've," she replied looking to Rarity, "You're quite the talented seamstress."

Rarity blushed, "Thank you, I do like to make myself and my friends look their stylish best."

"Well it certainly shows, now let's be going. IT's late and you all have school tomorrow."

Forte and the girls got into Fioritura's and Travertine's cars, Sunset and Forte sitting together in his mother's Jaguar, along with Rarity and Rainbow. The others and Spike were in Travertine's Mercedes.

They got back home within a few minutes, Forte and the girls telling his mother all about the night they had. Fioritura also noticed how Forte and Sunset held hands and how Sunset rested her head on his shoulder.

Walking up the garden path and into the house, Forte and the girls immediately went upstairs where Fioritura showed them the rooms they'd be staying in. After getting changed into pyjamas, which Pinkie pulled out of nowhere, they all went inside Forte's room and sat themselves down.

"Cool room Forte," said Rainbow, looking in awe at his guitars, "I love the axes."

"I thought you would. I'll be sure to bring them the next time we have a magic battle against power crazed demons intent on conquering the world."

He grinned and looked over to Sunset, "No offence."

"None taken," she replied giving him a kiss.

Forte and the girls talked a little more. Twilight making as many notes as she could about human technology while she had the chance. Rainbow had a go at Forte's guitars and he gave them a demonstration of his saxophone playing skills. Needless to say the girls were impressed and Rainbow said there might be a way to include it on the band somehow.

After about half an hour they were all tired and like Fioritura said, they had school the next day so decided to go to sleep. The girls slept in the spare rooms whilst Spike decided to sleep in Forte's room, to Forte's delight.

"Wakey wakey Pony Boy."

Forte blearily opened his eyes to see a blury red blob. Blinking a few times, his vision came into focus and the red blob turned out to be Sunset.

"What time is it?" he groaned.

"Time to get up lazy bones."

Forte groaned again and went back under the quilt. Sunset smirked.

"If you don't get up then there'll be no chocolate covered waffles left for you."

Forte bolted up in an instant, momentarily taking Sunset off guard, and in about ten seconds got dressed into a t-shirt and trousers.

"Ten seconds? That must be a record."

Forte folded his arms and raised an eyebrow, "Yeah because girls don't take forever and a day getting ready do they?"

"Ouch," Sunset replied, stifling a laugh, "I think I might need some ice on that burn."

"Then let's venture forth down stairs and get some."

The pair went downstairs where the other girls were already starting their breakfast, Rainbow had a generous pile of waffles coated in chocolate sauce.

"Here you are sweetie," Fioritura said handing Forte a plate of waffles, "Toppings are on the table."

"Thanks mum."

"Here you are Sunset."

"Thanks Fioritura," Sunset replied taking the plate of waffles from her.

"Just call me Fio if you like. It doesn't take as long, and it's easier to say."

"OK Fio."

Forte and Sunset went to the table and sat down, Forte immediately grabbing the chocolate sauce and lathering it all over his waffles. Sunset went for some syrup.

"So you finally got up," Rainbow commented.

"Yeah, I heard there were waffles available. Thought I'd get them while they're hot."

"We did try waking you up sooner but you're a heavier sleeper than Spike," Twilight said, motioning to her dragon-turned-canine companion.

"I'm not a heavy sleeper," Spike grumbled.

"Neither am I," Forte added.

"You've actually slept through an earthquake before," Fioritura stated, "Many years ago when you were little. We were staying at a place very near a fault line. A 6.5 magnitude earthquake shook the town and you slept right through it."

"Woah, dude! Even I wouldn't sleep through that," Rainbow said.

"That's sayin' somethin'."

Rainbow frowned at Applejack, "Just because you can go with almost no sleep cowgirl doesn't mean the rest of us can."

"I've never really needed much sleep."

"Don't worry Rainbow, you can nap again in physics today and borrow my notes afterwards."

"Rainbow Dash! Don't tell me you sleep through your lessons!" Twilight scolded.

"No......well not all the time."

"You're just like the Rainbow Dash in my world."

"Well she IS Rainbow Dash," Forte said.

Twilight rolled her eyes but broke out into laughter which was soon echoed by the others.

"You know there are times when I think you're my pony friends and not my human friends."

"I guess that makes sense," Sunset said, "I wonder what Forte's pony counterpart is like."

Everyone looked at Forte.

"Well I'll see if I can find out when I return to Equestria."

"Keep us updated."

"I will do."

An hour later and the gang was outside the statue giving their farewells to Twilight.

"Sure wish you could stay longer," said Applejack.

"Me too. But I have responsibilities in Equestria that I have to get back to. Its citizens need me but now I can go through the portal whenever I need to. This isn't goodbye. It's just goodbye until next time."

"Bye Twilight, it's nice to make another friend."

Twilight smiled, "Bye Forte, it's been nice meeting you as well. And again, I'll see if I can find out anything about your pony counterpart in my world."

"Great, can't wait to hear."

Twilight looked down at Spike, "Ready?"

"Ready."

The pair walked back through the portal back to Equestria, leaving the Rainbooms standing around the statue. Curious, Forte walked towards the statue and slowly moved his hand towards it.

"Forte!"

He turned around and saw Sunset look worried.

"Don't worry I'm not going through, I'm just curious about something."

He placed his hand through the portal and saw his hand change from it's peach skin to a blue hoof.

"That. Is. Freaky."

He moved his hand out of the portal, his hand restored.

"How do you play a guitar with hooves?"

Everyone looked to Sunset, "It's easier than you think."

There was silence for a few more seconds until they saw Principal Celestia arrived.

"Good morning students."

"Good morning Principal Celestia," replied Rarity.

"You're all here early aren't you? Eager to learn today?"

The gang laughed lightly.

"Not quite, we just came to see Twilight off. She had to go back home," Said Rainbow, speaking for the group.

Celestia looked to the statue, "The statue has been there longer than I can remember, and all this time......another world was at the end of the rabbit hole."

The gang pondered her words for a moment.

"Anyway, why not come inside? You can get a bit of practice before school starts."

School came and went. The talk of the day being the Rainbooms and their victory over the Dazzlings, and Forte and Sunset dating. The students at CHS were already missing Twilight again. Despite only spending, in total, less than a week at CHS she's made a huge impact on the students' lives.

The Rainbooms were on the amphitheatre stage, getting their instruments ready for another practice session. DJ PON-3 is also present, she was readying her turntables and Sunset was sat at the side of the stage writing in her magic journal.

Dear Princess Twilight.

Missing you already, and hope you’ll be back soon. Things are definitely looking up for me here at Canterlot High, but I know I still have a lot to learn about friendship. Hope you don’t mind if I write to you for advice when I need it.

Your friend, Sunset Shimmer.

Just as she finished, Rainbow called over to her.

"You ready or what?" she said with excitement.

"Ready!" she called back

"One, two, three, four!" Pinkie yelled, accentuating each number with a clap of her drum sticks.

Band practice went well. As did the following few. But the night had come were they would be performing for an audience once again. The Rainbooms were just backstage putting on their costumes, Rarity adding finishing touches to Sunset's and Forte's. Forte liked his. He had bright blue shin-high boots that sparkled under the spotlights, and a pair of skin-tight, spandex like material leggings with a large silver treble clef running down the left leg. His short sleeve jacket was similar to Rainbow's in it being blue, albeit a darker shade, that also sparkled like the stars, and lightning bolt lapels in a sparkling silver.

Sunset's costume consisted of a short dress in red, orange and yellow that went across her body at a 45 degree angle. The red covered her upper body, the bottom starting at her waist and finishing just above her hip. The orange followed next starting and finishing in tandem with the red. The yellow doing the same thing, followed suit.

Her skin-tight spandex leggings were charcoal in colour with red and orange motifs in various shapes including flames and hearts. Her platform sandal-shoes had silver strapping with studs in them. Flame decorations were added to each side of the shoes to finish them off.

The design perfectly suited Sunset. As did Forte's costume suit him.

"There, all done."

"Thanks Rarity," replied Forte gratefully, "Err I do get to keep this right...after the show?"

"Of course darling. I wouldn't dream of taking away such a fine costume away from you."

"OK team, time to rock!" yelled Rainbow enthusiastically, "Put 'em here guys!"

Rainbow held her hand out on front of her, palm face down, inviting the others to place their hands their also. All of them did.

"Rainbooms Rock!"

The band cheered themselves and eagerly went onto the stage, the lights currently off, and they took their positions. Rainbow and Forte were centre stage on lead and rhythm guitar respectively, on a platform above the stage. To the right of them, when facing them from the audience, was Rarity on her keytar. On the other side at the same height was Applejack and Fluttershy on bass and tambourine respectively. On a raised platform on the stage itself, beneath Forte and Rainbow, was Pinkie on the drums.

And centre stage was Sunset as lead singer.

The lights came on and the audience began cheering wildly. Amongst the audience members were the families of the Rainbooms who were sat in the Family section on the front rows.

A short intro by Rainbow and Forte set the song on motion.

Once upon a time
You came into my world and made the stars align

Now I can see the signs
You pick me up when I get down so I can shine

Shine like rainbows
Shine like rainbows

Friends, you are in my life
And you can count on me to be there by your side

And when the music comes alive
We sing our songs to lift us up so we can shine

And the sound that we hear in our hearts
Makes a crescendo
And the light that ignites in the dark
It makes us all glow
And shine like rainbows
We shine like rainbows
Together we stand
As the rain begins to fall
And holdin' our heads up high
As the sun shines through it all

And the sound that we hear in our hearts
Makes a crescendo
And the light that ignites in the dark
It makes us all glow
And shine like rainbows
We shine like rainbows
Shine like rainbows
We shine like rainbows

We shine like rainbows

The audience broke into a rapturous applause that echoed throughout the clear night air.

Thriving on the adoration, Rainbow immediately began 'Awesome As I Wanna Be'.

Unlike the last time they played it, this went by without incident. During what would have been Rainbow's guitar solo, she and Forte decided to alternate an intense, high tempo dual between them (think DragonForce) much to the delight and awe of the audience.

Unsurprisingly the battle of the axes resulted in them ponying up.

Forte's and Rainbow's parents watched, jaws dropped, as their respective children went through their transformations. Most of the audience assumed it was fancy special effects and elaborate costumes, but a select few knew better.

During the next few songs, the other Rainbooms also pony-upped.

One last song remained to be played. The one that truly brought Sunset and Forte into the mix and led to events that changed their lives forever.

'You're Never Gonna Bring Me Down'.

Sunset sang with the same passion and conviction as the first time round and like before, was a rousing success. Albeit without a magical alicorn firing a rainbow death beam at power crazed lunatics.

The Rainbooms bowed to their audience, Sunset and Forte shared another kiss.

"You were great out there Sunny."

"So were you Pony Boy."

The hebdomad walked off stage and into the green room. Their respective parents, except for Sunset, were waiting for them. As were CHS's teachers. Celestia walked over to the band.

"Congratulations Rainbooms. That was an outstanding performance. You've done yourselves and the school proud."

The group looked amongst themselves and smiled, some giving each other high-fives.

"You've all certainly done a tremendous job in turning CHS around, and I would like to take this opportunity to ask you all if you'd be interested in performing a special Christmas concert before winter break?"

"Sure, we'd love to," replied Rainbow, "Right guys?"

Each of them responded with positive reactions, eager to perform again.

"Then it settled. I'll inform you of more details nearer the time. In the meantime, I believe your families would like to see you."

The Principal walked away leaving the Rainbooms to walk over to their families. Sunset went with Forte, holding his hand firmly as she did so.

"Hi Mum, hi Dad."

"Hi sweetie, hi Sunset."

"Hi Fio, hi Travers."

"Now then Sunset," replied Travertine, "Enjoy yourself tonight?"

"Definitely, so did Forte I reckon."

"It was good fun. We'll definitely have to do more performances like that."

"I definitely don't see Dash having a problem with it."

"Aye, we could even charge people to watch us."

His parents and Sunset laughed.

"Is that what you want to do for a living?" asked Fioritura.

"Maybe, it's far too early to say."

"A good answer," Fioritura replied. She looked over Forte's shoulder and saw someone familiar. She looked this person in the eyes and with just a look conveyed an entire conversation.

Forte, oblivious to what was happening, felt a pair of hands cover his eyes.

"Guess who?"

Forte recognised that voice.

"RA-RA!"

Ra-Ra removed her hands and Forte turned around and went wide-eyed at the sight of the superstar.

"Hey Forte."

All of the other Rainbooms and a few students, also in the green room, stared jaws dropped at the sight.

Countess Coloratura was in their presence.

A living goddess in the world of music.

"You'll catch flies with that mouth”, Ra-Ra said, "But it's great to see you again."

Ra-Ra gave Forte a firm hug, which he returned.

"So, are you going to introduce me to your friends?"

"S-sure. This here is Sunset Shimmer, my girlfriend."

Ra-Ra's eyes sparkled in delight, "Oh that's so sweet. You look adorable together."

Forte introduced the rest of his friends, though he didn't need to introduce his parents.

"It's great to see you again Ra-Ra," Fioritura said.

"Likewise Fio. Forte's grown to be quite a handsome gentleman."

Forte rolled his eyes, causing Sunset to giggle.

"Forte, how d'ya know Countess Coloratura?" asked Applejack.

All eyes were looking at Forte.

"Errrr......"

"I used to babysit him," Ra-Ra interrupted, "In my early days when his mother wrote some songs for me, I would sometimes babysit the little guy when they were away or had to go out. A little rascal he was growing up."

The girls snickered and Ra-Ra ruffled his hair, "He's still the cutie he always was."

Ra-Ra leant forward and gave him a kiss on the cheek causing him to go bright red in embarrassment.

Ra-Ra walked over to Fioritura and the other adults, leaving Forte with very inquisitive looking girls.

He clapped his hands together and grinned sheepishly, "So, any questions?"

MEANWHILE, BACK IN EQUESTRIA

Twilight walked into the private chambers of Princess Celestia. The room was bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun and the smell tea filled the air.

"Princess?"

Celestia turned around and smiled upon seeing her visitor.

"My faithful student, how are you Twilight?" she asked giving her a wing hug.

"I feel great," she replied, returning the hug, "I made a new friend as well."

Celestia smiled brightly, "That's wonderful Twilight. Tell me all about this person."

The two princesses sat down and Celestia poured them both some tea.

"His name is Forte and he started CHS not long after I first left. He's talented at music and, despite being a little introverted, comes out of his shell when he's playing."

"He sounds like a remarkable young colt...or should that be young man?"

"Young man. There's also something else about him."

"Do tell."

"He recently got into a relationship with a girl."

"That's wonderful Twilight, what is her name?"

Twilight paused momentarily, "Sunset Shimmer."

The room went very quiet as Celestia froze from shock. A flood of emotions from a time not too long ago surged into her mind, causing her cheeks to glisten with tears.

"Sunset.....Sunset is Forte's girlfriend?"

"Yes. But don't worry. They're happy together, and care deeply for each other. You have nothing to fear from him."

"Did.....did she say anything about me...when you were there?"

"She asked if I could pass on a message."

Celestia rubbed the tears out of her eyes with a hoof and looked up to Twilight, "What did she wish to convey?"

Celestia mentally prepared herself for a message filled with anger and hurt, a message that clearly conveyed Sunset hated her and had never forgiven her.

"She said......'I'm sorry'."

The short, simple message broke Celestia mental damn and a torrent of tears came flooding through. Twilight, couldn't do much besides be there for Celestia. She wrapped a hoof around her neck and pulled her into a hug.

Celestia, sobbed into Twilight's chest; years of thinking Sunset hated her were blown away by one simple, short message.

Her former student, whom she saw as a daughter; still looked up to her.

Twilight didn't know exactly how long had passed but as the sun was still setting it can't have been long. Celestia, having stopped crying, assured Twilight she would be OK and thanked her for being there for her. Twilight showed her gratitude and parted ways after another wing hug.

After Twilight left, Celestia walked over to a wall painting and, using her magic swung it open to reveal a hidden safe. Opening the safe she removed a locked box and, after closing the safe and painting, walked over to the balcony and sat down. The balcony provided a panoramic view of Equestria and at this time of day, sunset, the view was beautiful.

She opened the box and removed a photo. The photo in question was of Sunset's first birthday as her student. She remembers the look on Sunset's face when she ripped off the wrapping paper and seeing a massive spell book.

The memory brought a chuckle out of her.

Tears started falling once more, a few drops falling onto the photo.

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine
You make me happy when skies are grey
You never know, dear, how much I love you
Please don't take my sunshine away

The other night, dear, as I lay sleeping
I dreamt I held you in my arms
When I awoke, dear, I was mistaken
So I hung my head, and I cried

Sunset's voice became hoarse and tears started falling and splashing onto the photo.

"I love you Princess, I'm so sorry I betrayed you."

Sunset, pulled several blankets over her, her only warmth in the abandoned warehouse, and tried to get some sleep.

I may not know what the future holds
But hear me when I say
That my past does not define me
'Cause my past is not today

Author's Notes:

Thanks again to A random person for editing.

I have a Patreon account and it's been a big help. My Patreon Donors (very nice, generous people) are listed below:

Andrew Adams
Tankoncow

If you wish to become a donor as well you can become one by going here.