The lunch bell rang and students filled out of their classrooms and towards the lunchroom, Sunset sat with her new group of friends as they all talked about what had happened earlier.

"I wish I could've been there to help." Flash says looking dejected.

"Don't worry about it Flash, chances are that you would've been held down like the others." Sunset assures him.

"Hmph if the great and powerful Trixie was there then she would've made them all disappear!" Trixie boasted.

"And how would you do that If you were being held down like the rest of us, oh great and powerful Trixie." Gilda says the last part in a sarcastic tone.

"A magician never reveals her secrets." Trixie states which causes Gilda to roll her eyes.

"So what are we going to do in case shit like this happens again?" Lightning Dust asks as she glances around the lunchroom, several students quickly looking away when she looked in their direction.

"To be honest, I think that was everyone who would be stupid enough to try something like this." Sunset commented as she took a bite of her sandwich.

"What makes you say that?" Dumbbell asks curiously.

"Because of the secrets posted." Sunset stated. "I looked at all of their faces during the commotion and I recognized some of them who had very personal secrets posted and the others who were exposed to be the ones posting their secrets."

"You recognized all of them during the fight?" Gilda asks, sounding impressed that Sunset was able to do that in a middle of a fight.

"It's one of the things my mother in equestria taught me, you have to pay attention to every detail no matter how insignificant or risk missing something important. it came in handy when noble ponies tried to take advantage of my closeness with my mother." Sunset smirks as she recalls how she turned the tables on those snobbish nobles and how good it felt to see them cower in fear.

"Um boss, you got that 'I'm better than you' look." Snips pointed out.

Sunset blinks before looking at Snails. "In this case its warranted."

"Are you certain that there won't be anymore?" Flash asks with concern.

"Positive, but if it'll make you feel better I'll cast a protection spell on the girls just to be safe." Sunset responds.

Over at the Rainbooms table, the girls were eating with the Crusaders and Diamond Tiara to make sure that nothing more would happen to them.

"Are yah girls sure yer feelin' alright?" Applejack asks worriedly as she notices how quiet the Crusaders were.

"Huh? uh yeah." Applebloom responds without looking at her sister, she simply stares at her food. moving the pees on her tray with her fork absentmindedly.

Applejack looked over to Rarity and Rainbow Dash, both girls looking worriedly at their respective little sister/honorary sister. Rainbow Dash wanted to say some comforting words to Scootaloo, but was unable to without sounding like a hypocrite. Rarity was no better, the voice of her nightmare kept reminded her how her sister betrayed her and that she and Sunset deserved to be beaten, she feared that if she spoke, she would end up saying something hurtful. Fortunately someone else noticed their dilemma and had no problem voicing her concern.

"Doesn't look that way to me." Diamond Tiara spoke as she gave her friends a knowing look. "I thought you all said you were going to be more honest with your sisters."

The Crusaders flinched at that, Diamond Tiara was right, they did promise that they would be honest with their sisters about their problems. Applebloom sighs before looking up at her sister.

"I've just been thinkin' about Sunset." Applebloom casts Sunset a look just in time to see the demon start laughing, she shivered upon hearing that maniacal laugh.

"What about Sunset?" Applejack asks curiously, wondering what this is about.

"Like why she risked her own life to save us." Applebloom confessed. "We turned the whole school against her, we turned her own friends against her."

The Rainbooms felt a stabbing pain in their heart when Applebloom mentioned that they were Sunset's friends, but they didn't let it show.

"Not to mention she's a demon now." Sweetie Bell added sadly.

"Huh?" Scootaloo blinked at that. "What do you mean? she's not a demon anymore." Scootaloo looks at Sunset's table to see her rolling her eyes at something Trixie said.

"What are yah girls talking about?" Applejack questions as she looks at Sunset and still sees her knife in her back, Applejack quickly looks away, unable to look at what she had done to Sunset.

"Sunset isn't a demon." Rainbow Dash says, as she casts a sad glance at Sunset, she watches Sunset use her broken hand to pick up a spoon, all the while wincing in pain.

"Um the girls are right...Sunset did turn herself into a demon." Fluttershy speaks softly but with a tone of deep sadness.

"Um pardon me darlings, but we can clearly see what Sunset has been forced to become." Rarity corrects her friends, she's confused as to why Rainbow Dash and Applejack would think Sunset isn't a demon. "It is our fault after all."

"Rarity, Sunset looks exactly like how we saw her in that illusion." Rainbow Dash stated. "How can you not see that?"

"Wait a minute, Sunset doesn't look anything like that." Now Applejack was really confused. "What are yah girls seeing?"

"Maybe we should ask Sunny?" Pinkie Pie suggested as she looks towards the depressed looking Sunset.

"Is that really such a good idea?" Sweetie Bell asks in fright as she looks back at the demon.

"We have to know why we see her as we do." Rarity argued.

"I don't know Rares. "Applejack is hesitant to ask Sunset, probably has something to do with being unable to look at her with that knife on her back.

"Then I'll ask her." Scootaloo says as she gets up from her chair and heads towards Sunset's table.

"Scoots wait!" Applebloom calls out to Scootaloo as she gets up from her chair and goes after her friend.

"Guys wait up!" Sweetie Bell also chases after her friends.

"Urgh, seriously?" A reluctant Diamond Tiara follows after her friends.

"No use in prolonging it." Rarity states as she rises from her seat along with her friends as they walk towards Sunset's table.

Sunset sees Scootaloo approaching with the rest of the Crusaders right behind her, followed by the Rainbooms. "Hey Scootaloo, what's up?"

"Sunset, I wanted to ask why everyone is seeing you differently?" Scootaloo asks. "I mean, I use to see you as a demon-but now I see you looking all normal!" She quickly added.

Sunset watches Scootaloo before looking at the group behind her, each of them having a look of fear, sadness and regret. Sunset lets out a sigh.

"If you must know, I cast a spell back at the assembly that causes you to see me as you truly see me."

Almost immediately the faces of the Rainbooms went pale, Fluttershy started trembling, she began to breath as she shook her head.

"No, that isn't true." FLuttershy whispers as she clutches her head.

"Your heart doesn't lie Fluttershy." Sunset stated as she looks sadly at the animal lover.

"B-but ah don't see yah as that!" Applejack shouted, but then she realizes something. "Ah see yah as someone who ah stabbed in the back."

Rainbow Dash simply stares at Sunset, finally understands why she sees Sunset this way. "All I see is how badly I screwed up."

The rest of the Rainbooms, the Crusaders and Diamond Tiara turn to look at Rainbow Dash and are surprise to see her slightly smiling.

"But your eyes are still the same, although a little different than usual."

Applejack looks back to Sunset and realizes that Rainbow Dash is right. "Yeah, yer eyes are still he same."

The rest of the Rainbooms nod in agreement, but Applebloom, Sweetie Bell and Diamond Tiara still see Sunset as a complete demon.

"Then there might be hope for you all after all." Sunset says as she watches the Rainbooms smile hopefully.

The lunch bell rings and the everyone starts bringing their tray to throw away their leftover food before heading off to class, Sunset is about to exit the cafeteria when she is stopped by Applebloom.

"Um Sunset, do yah have a minute?"

"Sure, what do you need?" Sunset looks down at the nervous looking girl.

"Do yah mind if ah talk to yah for a minute?" Applebloom asks, shifting around nervously as the she-demon looks down at her with her menacing eyes.

"Sure, but do you mind if we talk after school and after detention?" Sunset suggested.

"S-sure, that's fine by me." Applebloom agreed.

The Crusaders gathered around Sunset as she escorted them to their classroom, the Rainbooms along with Sunset's friends followed closely before they each had to go to their own classrooms along the way. The students quickly cleared a path as the she-demon approached them, Sunset noticed that they are more fearful of her now than before, but she didn't care.

Let them be afraid. Sunset thought as she cast a side glare which caused some of the students to her left to recoil in fear.

After dropping off the Crusaders, the group dispersed and went to their own classes, except for Applejack who had the last two periods with Sunset. Unfortunately for her as she was walking behind Sunset, the knife that was imbedded in Sunset's back was in clear view. She focused her gaze on Sunset's feet, she was a few feet behind Sunset so even if she abruptly stopped, Applejack would have enough time to prevent herself from crashing into Sunset. They managed to make it to their class just as the bell rang, Sunset took a seat near the back while Applejack took a seat in the second row.

"Alright, detention is over. You can all go home." Vice-principal Luna stated , there wasn't that many people in detention since some of them participated in the assault this morning and were taken to the hospital.

The students eagerly exit the detention room, Sunset escorted the Crusaders towards the front entrance where their families would be waiting. After they met up with their families , Applebloom told Applejack that she had to talk with Sunset, Applejack looked towards Sunset who was talking to Gilda before nodding at her sister in understanding; telling her that she'll be waiting for her. Applebloom raced back towards Sunset and after asking if they can find some place where they can talk in private, Sunset lead her towards the Rainbooms band practice room. Along the way Applebloom was getting nervous, she was terrified of being in a room alone with the demon. They reach their destination and Sunset opens the door for Applebloom, gesturing for her to go in first, Applebloom enters the room and her eyes begin wandering around, eventually settling on a poster of the Rainbooms. The poster portrayed all the members of the band with their instruments, each one of the girls looked very happy and full of energy.

"That's new."

Applebloom was startled as Sunset spoke, she turned her head to her left to see the demon standing there, looking at the poster curiously.

"W-what do yah mean?"

"The last time I was here, that poster wasn't there." Sunset tells Applebloom as she stares at the poster, her eyes locked on each of the Rainbooms, as memories of their practice sessions flooded her mind. Those were good times, she turns to look at Applebloom. "So what did you want to talk to me about?"

Applebloom swallows the lump that had formed in her throat, this was it. "Sunset...why did yah protect us?"

"Because I said I would look out for you girls." Sunset answers simply and with a shrug.

"No, it's more than that." Applebloom didn't believe Sunset's answer. "Yah took a hit that was meant for us, yah put yer own life at risk to save ours. After what we did to yah, why would yah go an' do somethin' like that?!"

Sunset watched as Applebloom started crying, she sighs before speaking. "Your sister told me how she felt after loosing her parents."

Applebloom stopped her crying and looked up at the demon in surprise. "She did?"

"Yes, After I confided in her about my worries about my mother back in equestria, she confided in me about how devastated she, your brother and grandmother were when your parents died." Sunset began, turning to face Applebloom. "That tragedy changed her, it-"

Sunset's eyes widen in realization before narrowing dangerously, she clenched her fists hard, as her body shook in anger.

"S-Sunset?" Applebloom looks at Sunset fearfully, the demon has her wings flared out, her hair glowing an angry red.

Sunset hears her name and closes her eyes as she tries to calm down, she breathes in and out and eventually succeeds in dispelling her anger. "Sorry about that, as I was saying it made your sister realize how precious her family is to her and installed a great fear of loosing them."

"Is that why she kept pestering me about being safe?" Applebloom realized.

"Yep!" Sunset says with a smile, remembering how when she was working on the farm, Applejack would stop what she was doing and race over to Applebloom who was doing something 'dangerous'. she would make sure it was safe, put a helmet on Applebloom, give her a big hug before going back to doing her chores. Sunset found it adorable.

"Applebloom, you mean the world to your family and despite how upset I am at your sister, I don't want to see her or the rest of your family suffer. Especially if they lost you."

Applebloom's eyes widen at hearing Sunset say that, she sounded so sincere. She was about to speak but Sunset continued.

"And as upset as I am with you, you did kind of show me who my real friends are."

The color drained from Applebloom's face at hearing that.

"You made me realize that what the girls and I had was never real, at least to them." Sunset lowers her eyes half way as she stares back at the poster. "The time I spent with them felt like a wonderful dream, but I suppose that's all it was, a dream. But at least I found my real friends waiting for me when I woke up."

"This cycle of hatred that has been going on since I broke up the girls friendship has to end, Applebloom you have to be there for your sister and the rest of your family."

"What do yah mean?" Applebloom was confused, what did Sunset mean by that?

"Your family is going through a rough time right now."

"No kiddin'." Applebloom says in shame.

"Which is why you have to help them through this, support them like they have supported you. Especially Applejack." Sunset bit her lip as she places her hands on Applebloom's shoulders. "Applejack needs your support right now Applebloom, the guilt of what she did to me is eating away at her, she needs you to keep her from being consumed by it."

Applebloom thinks to how Applejack just mindlessly goes through her chores, even when she has to do some of her chores as punishment Applejack refuses to talk to her. She has been doing that a lot lately, whenever Applejack had any free time she would either be sitting alone or playing her guitar, but she always had this depressed look and would stare at a picture of her and her friends.

"But am the reason we're in this mess, whenever ah look in her eyes, all ah see is disappointment...disappointment in me." Applebloom confessed, whipping away a stray tear as she looks away from Sunset.

Sunset places her hand underneath Applebloom's chin and guides her head to face her. "Yes, your sister is disappointed in you Applebloom, but she still loves you." she closes her eyes as she thinks of her mother in equestria. "No matter how much we fight, or mess up, the ones we love will never stop loving us."

Applebloom watches a tear rolled down the she-demon's left cheek, she opens her eyes and Appleboom is shocked to see a warmth and kindness in them, as she gives her a reassuring smile.

"After all you're all Apples to the core." Sunset winks at her.

Tears well up in Applebloom's eyes as she took in Sunset's words, she was right, despite her major crew up; her family never threw her away or hated her. They still loved her as they always did. Applebloom suddenly remembers a conversation she had with her big sis.

Flashback.

Applejack waved goodbye to Sunset from her front door as Big mac drove her home, Sunset helped her out with her chores today and the former equestrian was starting to get the hang of farm life. Applejack smiled to herself as she entered her house, she never knew that Sunset was such a hard worker. Today Sunset had opened up to her about equestria, namely her mother.

"Who'd have thought that Sunset's mother is a princess." Applejack mutters to herself as she makes her way into the living room.

Applebloom's head pops up from the corner on top of the stairs. "Is she gone?"

Applejack sighs. "Yes she's gone."

"Thank goodness!" Applebloom quickly runs down the stairs and to the living room, she jumps on the couch, picks up the remote and turns on the tv. "Thank heavens, I thought I was going to miss my show because of that she-demon." She said the last part with disdain.

"Appleloom!" Applejack shouted, her eyes widening in disbelief. "I told yah not to call Sunset that."

"But it's true! yah saw her at the fall formal!" Applebloom protested, shivering at the memory of seeing that monster.

"Ah keep telling yah, that wasn't the real Sunset!" Applejack argued, ever since Sunset started helping out at the farm, Applebloom would hide in her room until she was gone; it was no secret that the youngest Apple despised Sunset.

"How can yah be so sure!" Applebloom questioned as she rose to stand on the couch.

"Because....the real Sunset is a very kind person." Applejack tells her, smiling gently. "The days she worked here on the farm, ah see the real Sunset. Someone who works hard to make up for her mistakes, someone who wants to be better than the person she was, to truly understand the magic of friendship. someone who used anger to give her strength, someone who was horrified at what she had become and almost did something she would regret; ah see someone who needs a friend to guide her an' am happy to be that friend."

"So she's yer friend now?" Applebloom asks as she narrows her eyes.

"Yes Applebloom, Sunset is mah friend an' ah appreciate it if yah stopped calling her a demon." Applejack stated as she crossed her arms.

Applejack and Applebloom stared at each other before Applebloom looked away and sat back down on the couch, grumbling a 'fine' as she watched her show.

Applejack sighs before joining her sister on the couch, Applebloom cast side glances at Applejack, she still believes her sister made a mistake in befriending Sunset.

Flashback End.

"Applejack was right." Applebloom whispers.

"Hmm?" Sunset tilts her head in confusion.

"Yer not a demon, yer really a kind person." Tears spilled from Applebloom's eyes as she finally understands what , Applejack was telling her. "Am so sorry for what ah did to yah Sunset, ah was wrong, ah was so wrong!"

Sunset knelt down and wrapped her arms around Applebloom and lets her cry on her shoulder, screaming how sorry she is over and over again. Sunset simply smiles, she feels Applebloom's genuine honesty and regret for what she had done to her.

"It's okay Applebloom, I forgive you." Sunset says honestly.

"But what ah did-"

"Was a mistake, a mistake you clearly regret doing." Sunset interrupted as she pulled back to look at Applebloom. "Take it from me, the road to redeeming yourself will be hard, but you have your friends and family to help you through it. and me as well."

"Yah..yah really mean that?" Applebloom asks hopefully.

"Definitely!"

Applebloom tackles Sunset, wrapping her arms tightly around her. "Thank you."

Sunset smiles as she lays a comforting hand on Applebloom's head, Applebloom watches as the bat wings of the she-demon begin to disappear.

Gilda was changing the station on her car's radio when she sees Sunset step out of the school with Applebloom, both girls are smiling. Gilda smirks before exiting her car.

"Took your sweet time did yah?" Gilda says to an approaching Sunset.

"We had a lot to discuss." Sunset shrugs before looking at Applebloom who got into the Apple family truck, Big Mac is at the wheel while Applejack is sitting next to him.

"I bet you did." Gilda says as they watch the truck drive away, Applebloom waves them goodbye and they wave back. "She sure is looking better than she did earlier, what did you two talk about?"

"We just gained a better understanding of each other." Sunset answers simply.

Gilda merely stares at Sunset before smirking. "The magic of friendship huh?"

Sunset's only reply was a smile, the two girls then got into Gilda's car as they drove away from the school.

"Say Sunset, are you doing anything right now?" Gilda asks without looking at her passenger.

"Nothing at the moment, but my mom and aunt are coming over to my apartment to help me move some of my stuff over to their place." Sunset explains as she looks out the passenger window.

"Seriously? and you didn't think to ask your friends for help?" Gilda asks casually, casting Sunset a brief glance before looking back to the road.

"First off it's late into the evening, secondly it's just a few of my belongings that they take with them. I'm not entirely moving in with them yet." Sunset explains.

"Why not?" Gilda asks as she makes a turn.

"I still have some business to take care of first, I want to have everything taken care of before I start a new life with my family." Sunset stated.

"Ah, gotcha." Gilda makes another turn.

"Where are we headed?" Sunset asks curiously.

"You'll see." Gilda says simply as she continues to drive towards her destination.

Several minutes later they arrive at their destination, Sunset looks at it curiously before turning to face a smiling Gilda.

"Bowling?"

"Yep, unless of course you're not interested. we can do something else if you want?" Gilda says feigning being hurt.

"It's not that, I just never figured you for a bowler." Sunset explains, seeing right through Gilda's façade.

"There's a lot you don't know about me, sunshine." Gilda winks at Sunset as she uses Sunset's nickname.

Sunset merely rolls her eyes as Gilda parks her car, Gilda quickly unbuckles her seatbelt and motions Sunset to wait a bit as she exits her car. Sunset is curious as to what Gilda was going to do, she gets her answer when Gilda opens the passenger door and with a bow motions Sunset to exit the car.

"After you your highness."

"Why thank you, loyal subject." Sunset played along as exited Gilda's car, both girls giggled as they headed towards the bowling alley.

"Still can't believe your mom's a princess." Gilda whispers in case there was someone around listening.

"You better believe it." Sunset said as she and Gilda entered the bowling alley.

After they received their bowling shoes, Sunset and Gilda walked towards their assigned lane. But along the way they received some odd looks from the other bowlers, the two ignored the looks and focused on having fun. For the next hour, Sunset and Gilda had a blast bowling, neither girl cared about their scores as they were having too much fun.

"I never thought this would be so much fun." Sunset said excitedly as she and Gilda took a seat.

"It's more fun when your with good friends." Gilda stated as she took a drink from her soda.

"Yeah, maybe we should bring the rest of our friends along next time." Sunset suggested.

"Sounds like a plan, I wonder if it'll stop all the looks though." Gilda glances to her left to see that they were being watched.

"Why do you think they're staring at us?' Sunset asks as she turns her head to see that almost everyone is looking at them.

"Call me crazy, but I think they're staring at you." Gilda realizes as she notes how their eyes are following Sunset.

"Why would they....oh." Sunset slumps in her seat as she realizes why.

"Bail?"

"Bail."

Sunset and Gilda quickly rise from their seats and hurriedly went to retrieve their shoes, but just as they neared the counter, several boys around their age blocked their path.

"Hey, do you and your friend want to hang out with us?" one of the boys asks Sunset.

"Thanks, but me and my friend were just leaving." Sunset stated as she and Gilda attempted to get around the group of boys.

"W-wait a minute, can't you at least play one game with us?!" Another boy asked frantically.

"I'm sorry but the answer is still now." Sunset said firmly as she and Gilda made their way through the group, but they didn't get far as their path was blocked a group of little kids who looked up at Sunset with big smiles.

"Um hello, we just want to say that we're big fans of your parents!" A little boy said enthusiastically.

"You're pretty just like your mom!" A little girl commented.

"Um thanks." Sunset said as she tried to think of a way to escape. "Sorry, but me and my friend need to get home. we still have to finish our homework."

The children were disappointed that Sunset had to leave, the two girls quickly went to retrieve their shoes and headed towards the exit. Gilda and Sunset hurriedly went to Gilda's car, Gilda struggled a bit tp get her key in the lock before finally unlocking the door. She unlocked the passenger side door to allow Sunset entry, both girls quickly put on their seat belts, Gilda started her car and they were driving away from the bowling alley.

"That was close." Sunset sighed in relief.

"It's a good thing there weren't more who wanted to speak with you." Gilda says as she makes a right turn. "Shit, I completely forgot about the whole Wonderbolts being your parents thing. my bad."

"It's not your fault, it slipped my mind too." Sunset assures Gilda, she looks out the passenger window and begins to wonder if this will happen whenever she goes out. Is this what Scootaloo will be subjected too?

"Sunset, what're you going to do about this?" Gilda suddenly asks while focusing on the road.

"I don't know." Sunset says truthfully, what could she do?

"Well if you don't figure out something soon, this will become the norm." Gilda warned as her eyes narrowed.

"Yeah." Sunset says sadly.

The rest of the trip was silent as both girls tried to wrap their heads around this growing problem, Gilda dropped off Sunset at her apartment before driving home. Once inside her apartment, Sunset collapsed on top of her bed, today had been very eventful. Her thoughts drifted to Scootaloo, she couldn't imagine how she would handle being swamped by fans of her parents not to mention kids wanting to be her friends. She thought back to her time with Princess Celestia, plenty of fillies wanted to be friends with the princess's personal student, she was sure some where coursed by their parents in an effort to have connections with the princess. Sunset smirked as she recalled how when she got older the offers of friendship shifted to offers of courtship and marriage, she had to admit that she did like the idea of having her pick of any stallion or mare she wanted. But her arrogant self kept her from accepting any of their invitations, even the odd marriage proposal every now and then.

She thought back to Scootaloo and became worried at the prospect of her being taken advantage of to further someone else's gain, Sunset knew that her friends would have her back and that she had her parents to turn to. But then Anon-A-Miss happened, there was no doubt in Sunset's mind that it will be used against Scootaloo, either as a way of shaming Scootaloo's parents or as a juicy scandal. Whatever the case, Sunset knew that this would all be too much for Scootaloo to handle...but not her.

Sunset sat up on her bed, she knew exactly what she needed to do. She got off of bed and started preparing her things for her mother and aunt to take, half an hour later her apartment buzzer rang causing Sunset to exit her room and answer it.

"Who is it?" Sunset asks as she presses the talk button, before pressing the button to listen.

"it's us. Principal Celestia's voice can be heard.

Sunset pressed the buzzer to let them in before going back to her room, a minute later her doorbell rang and she immediately went to answer the door.

"Hi Mom, hey Aunt Luna." Sunset greeted her mother and Aunt as she opens the door.

"Hello sweetheart." Celestia greets her daughter as she gives her a hug.

"And how's our little Sunshine doing?" Luna asks as she gives her niece a hug after her sister.

"I'm doing great, I went to a bowling alley with Gilda after school." Sunset told them as she guided her mother and aunt inside her apartment.

"Did you have fun?" Celestia asks as she and Luna take a seat on Sunset's sofa.

"We sure did, although we had to leave when the people recognized me." Sunset says as she goes into the kitchen to make some coffee for her mother and aunt.

Celestia and Luna exchanged looks as they knew what Sunset meant by recognize, Celestia and Luna rose from their seats and went into the kitchen to see Sunset setting up a pan of water to boil. Sunset noticed her Aunt and Mother approaching and before she could open her mouth, both women pulled Sunset into a tight hug.

"Oh Sunset, I was so worried when I heard about the assault." Celestia said on the brink of tears.

"You don't know what a relief it is to see that you are alright." Luna spoke gently.

Sunset wrapped her arms around her aunt and mother. "I admit that I was in rough shape, but my other mom helped me heal completely. although..."

"Although what?" Celestia pulled back to look her daughter in the eyes.

Luna also pulls away as both sisters look at Sunset with worry.

"She did say that is something like this happens again, she'll take me back to equestria." Sunset informs them.

"Then it's a good thing this won't be happening again." Luna said with conviction as her eyes narrowed. "I've received a call from the police telling me that those responsible are being held without bail."

"I've also made sure to hire extra security, as well as have the teachers be extra vigilant to what the students talk about that might seem suspicious."Celestia added as she placed her right hand against Sunset's cheek. "No one is going to lay a finger on the girls and especially you."

"Thank you, both of you." Sunset thanked her family as she leaned into her mother's touch.

The family shared another hug that lasted a few minutes before parting.

"Mom, Aunty, I have a favor to ask."

"What is it Sunset?" Celestia asks curiously.

"Can you get in touch with Scootaloo's parents? there's something I want to discuss with them." Sunset told her mother.

"What will you be discussing?" Luna asked suspiciously while crossing her arms.

"It's about the whole mess with me being their daughter." Sunset scratches the back of her head. "I've been thinking about how Scootaloo would be affected if everyone knew who her parents where, and I've been comparing it with what I went through when ponies tried to get close to me because of how close I am to the princess."

"Sunset, you're not suggesting what I think you are, are you?" Celestia asked knowing full well what the answer is.

"Just hear me out, if I pretend to be Soarin and Spitfire's daughter then Scootaloo can go on living her life like normal."

"But what about you?" Luna asked sternly. "Won't you be the center of attention everywhere you go? won't you be constantly harassed by the media and fans alike? Won't your loose your normal everyday life?"

"Yes, but unlike Scootaloo I've dealt with all this and know what to expect as well as how to deal with it all." Sunset argued as she stared her aunt down.

"Sunset, I know you want to help Scootaloo. but this isn't the way to do it." Luna said as she stared into her niece's cyan eyes which matched her own.

"I've already thought about other solutions, but it's either this or the media finds out about Scootaloo on their own and then it'll only be a matter of time before they find out about Anon-A-Miss." Sunset pointed out.

Both women continue to stare each other down until eventually Luna's expression began to soften.

"Sunset, if you go through with this then we can't be seen as family other than in private."

"I know." Sunset says sadly.

"There obviously needs to be more thought into this problem." Celestia spoke, gaining her family's attention. "It would definitely be wise to discuss this with Scotaloo's parents, I'll see if they can meet us at lunch tomorrow."

With that said the matter was dropped, the family started preparing an evening meal before Discord stopped by and helped set the table. As the family sat down to enjoy their meal, Discord shared lighthearted stories about how he and Celestia first met, how he and Luna didn't get along at first, but later become somewhat friends. Overall the family had a very enjoyable evening which concluded with Sunset's family taking more of her belongings back to her new home.

Sunset woke to the familiar ringing of her phone, she groggily reached her hand out to grab it and after her eyes adjusted to the waking world, Sunset read the caller I.D. It was from Flash.

"Hello?" Sunset answers her phone groggily.

Hey Sunset, sorry to bother you so early but I thought you would like to know that you're on the front page of the newspaper again.

"So? What else is knew?" Sunset answered in an uninterested tone as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

Well for starters I'm on the cover with you.

All trace of sleep vanished from Sunset's eyes at this news. "What?"

It looks like someone snapped a picture of me helping you out of my car, but it isn't professionally done so it must of been someone from the school that took the photo.

"Oh great, now you got caught up in this mess." Sunset groaned in annoyance.

Well you're not going to like what else is on the front page.

"There's more?!" Sunset was surprised to hear this.

I'm afraid so, it seems that your fight with the students is also on the front page.

"You have got to be kidding me!" Sunset ran her hand through her hair as she sat up on her bed.

They even have pictures of you being saved by two of the Wonderbolts and you calling Spitfire mom.

"I guess I was right to be cautious." Sunset says with a sigh.

What do you mean by that?

"I'll tell you later." Sunset says simply as she gets up from her bed.

Do you want me to pick you up?

"Sure, if you don't mind making the front cover of tomorrow's paper." Sunset told him as she went to the bathroom.

Maybe they'll catch my good side this time. Flash joked.

"Dork." Sunset said with a smile.

See you soon Sunset.

"See yah." Sunset hangs up the phone and prepares to get ready for school.

Sunset stared out of the passenger window as Flash drove them to school, Flash would steal a glance to see how the former unicorn was doing, he knew the moment she got in his car that she didn't want to talk at the moment. Sunset had read up and the article and knew that they had to act fast before they soon find out the truth, she saw the school in the distance as well as her current and former friends. Flash stopped in front of the school and as he went to park his car, Sunset greeted everyone and chatted with them until the bell rang.

"Scootaloo, just a heads up, my mom is going to call your parents to meet her at lunch to discuss how to deal with this situation." Sunset whispers to the young girl.

"O-okay." Scootaloo replies a little nervously as they all enter the school.

The morning went by like usual except for the whispers about how Sunset is without a doubt Spitfire and Soarin's daughter now. Sunset didn't let it bother her but made sure to check if Scootaloo felt bothered by this. to her relief she didn't. Soon the lunch bell rang and after Gilda and the rest of her friends including the Rainbooms promised to look after Applebloom and Sweetie Belle, Sunset and Scootaloo headed toward the principal's office. When they arrived, Raven told them that Scootaloo's parents were already inside waiting for them. After thanking her, Sunset and Scootaloo entered Principal Celestia's office, Scootaloo's parents were seated in front of the principal's desk; Vice-Principal Luna was standing next to her sister and flashes her niece a smile. Sunset pulled up a chair for Scootaloo to sit next to her parents, while she chooses to stand facing the parents.

"Sunset, your mother has told us that you had a plan to deal with the situation." Soarin stated.

Sunset nodded before she started explaining her plan, needless to say the family was quite shocked to hear her plan.

"Are you certain that this is the best option we have?" Spitfire asks unsure.

"Yes, if you want Scootaloo to continue having normal life then this is the best course of action." Sunset says firmly.

"But what bout you? Surely this will greatly impact your life." Soarin asked in concern, he doesn't understand why Sunset would go this far to help his daughter.

"True, I'll be gaining a lot more attention than usual. But it's nothing I haven't dealt with before." Sunset assures them.

"What about your family." Spitfire stated. "Have you ever thought about how they would feel about you calling someone else mom in public?"

Sunset was a little taken back by this but nonetheless responded. "No, but it isn't real. we can still be a family in private."

"Young lady, let me tell you that regardless if it's real or not, having your child not being able to call you mother in public and treat each other like total strangers is one of the most painful things a mother can experience." Spitfire tells Sunset, her tone serious. "Don't get me wrong I am very grateful that you would sacrifice yourself for our daughter like this, but I can't let you or your mother go through with this."

Sunset tried to open her mouth to speak but couldn't say anything, she looked back to her mother and aunt who just smiled at her.

"She's right, and if I were you I'd listen to her. trust me." Soarin teased, which earned him an elbow to his arm by his wife. "See what I mean?"

Spitfire hit him again which caused Scootaloo to laugh, Sunset was at a loss, she didn't expect for Spitfire to have make a strong argument against her plan. Sunset looked back to her mother and aunt, she looked into her mother's eyes and saw the love and warmth in them. It was then that she realized that she may have made a mistake, in her haste to protect Scootaloo from those who would use and hurt her, she ended up hurting her family.

"Mom, Aunt Luna, I'm so sorry. I didn't realize how I would be hurting you with this plan."

"It's alright Sunset, the important thing is that you realized it now." Principal Celestia says kindly.

"Lets think of a better plan shall we?" Luna says as she winks at her niece.

"One that doesn't require you or your family to take the fall." Spitfire stated, leaving no room for arguments.

"Deal." Sunset agrees, and soon they spend the remainder of the lunch period trying to figure out a good plan.

Sunset and the Crusaders exited the school and as usual, their families/friend were waiting for them.

"So how was detention?" Gilda asks with a smirk.

"You know the usual." Sunset responded, as her ears picked up the familiar sound of Rarity's ringtone.

"Tell me about it." Gilda says while rolling her eyes, she and Sunset chatted a bit before hearing a loud outburst from Rarity.

"There's an emergency at the shop and you want me to come immediately?!…..I understand but.....yes, I see your point.....Alright, I'm on my way Miss Hemline." Rarity hangs up the phone with a sigh as she looks at her little sister. "I'm sorry Sweetie Belle, but it looks like I'm needed at my job."

Rarity looks to Applejack and begins walking in her direction.

"Applejack darling, there's a bit of an emergency at work, do you mind looking after Sweetie Belle?"

"Ah'm sorry Rarity, but we can't right now." Applejack says apologetically.

"Oh, it's quite alright." Rarity said a little disappointed, she begins to bit her thumb nail nervously as she tries to figure out who can watch Sweetie Belle.

"I'll watch Sweetie Belle for you Rarity." Sunset speaks up as she approaches the sisters.

"Sunset, It's quite alright. I'm sure Pinkie Pie or Fluttershy can watch Sweetie Belle for me." Rarity tries to assure Sunset that it wasn't necessary for her to watch over her sister.

"Rarity, Fluttershy is scheduled to work at the animal shelter today and Pinkie Pie is also busy at her job. Especially around this time of year." Sunset folded her arms and challenged Rarity to say otherwise.

Rarity was rendered speechless and finally gave in when she realized that Sunset was right. "Okay, Sweetie Belle has a key to our home so you shouldn't have any trouble getting in."

"I'll take good care of her Rarity." Sunset assures her.

"I know you will darling, and thank you for doing this." Rarity thanked Sunset, she has no idea why Sunset would offer to watch her little sister. But she wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth...so to speak.

"I'll give you a lift if you want?" Gilda offered.

"Thank you darling, I really appreciate it." Rarity thanks Gilda.

Rarity gives Sweetie Belle a hug goodbye before getting into Gilda's car, she waves goodbye to Sweetie Belle and Sunset as she and Gilda drive off.

"Shall we get going?" Sunset asks kindly as she looks down at Sweetie Belle.

Sweetie Belle simply nods and the two were on their way to Rarity's house, the walk was silent except for the crunching sound of the snow beneath their feet. Sweetie Belle risked a glance at Sunset and noticed her demonic smirk as he stared ahead, Sunset herself is smiling as she recalls how she and Rarity would walk to and from her house, Rarity would ask about what the fashion was like in equestria and when Sunset explained how nopony wore any clothes and how ponies usual only wore clothing when attending a royal event. Sunset giggled as she recalled the look on Rarity's face when she told her that.

"What's so funny?" Sweetie Belle asks, but then regretted it as the demon turned her head to look down at her.

"I just remembered the face Rarity made when I told her that where I come from, Equestria, ponies are almost always naked." Sunset answers before smiling at Sweetie Belle.

Sweetie Belle just nodded in agreement, the demon's smile exposed her sharp teeth which greatly unnerved her. Sunset noticed this but decided not to say anything or risk making the girl more uncomfortable. They eventually arrived at Rarity and Sweetie Belle's house and after unlocking the door, Sweetie Belle immediately hurried to her room.

"Hold it right there Sweetie Belle!"

Sweetie Belle froze half way up the stairs at hearing the demon's voice, she slowly turns around to see her glaring at her.

"Rarity said to hand over your phone and that you should get started on your chores." Sunset told her kindly.

"R-right." Sweetie Belle walked back down and handed Sunset her cellphone.

"Thank you." Sunset thanked the young girl, smiling kindly.

Sweetie Belle didn't say anything, she just went to the living room and sat on the sofa, she took out her sketchbook and began doing a few drawings. five minutes into her drawing, Sunset received a text from Rarity.

Darling I forgot to tell you that when Sweetie Belle finishes her chores, she can watch some television for half an hour.

Sure thing.

Also, Rainbow Dash will be stopping by to retrieve something I need for my work. If you don't mind would you make sure she gets it please?

Of course, just tell me where to find it.

Thank you so much Sunset, it's in my room, under my bed, a violet box.

Sunset hurried to Rarity's room, but not before telling Sweetie Belle what Rarity had said. Upon entering Rarity's room Sunset was hit with the memories of the slumber party, but she pushed those memories aside as she knelt down in front of Rarity's bed and saw the violet box. As she reaches for the box, her hand brushes against another box which sends a jolt of electricity up her arm, causing her to quickly pull her hand away.

"What the hell?!" Sunset shouted as she held her hand, she inspected her hand and although it looked normal, it didn't stop the dread Sunset now felt. She looked at the box and although she was curious of it's contents, it wouldn't be right to open it. She reached for the violet box again while avoiding the other one and pulled it out. She texted Rarity that she has the box, Rarity texted her to open the box and after making sure that what she needed was inside, Sunset went back to the living room to wait for Rainbow Dash.

Scootaloo was in her room, staring at her ceiling as she thought about the meeting at lunch. Despite them bouncing ideas around, none of them stuck. Except for Sunset's plan, but it mostly stuck to her because of how far Sunset was willing to go for her.

"Sunset." Scootaloo mutters her name, up until yesterday she despised and feared her. But now she felt sad and guilty for making Sunset sacrifice her own privacy in exchange for hers.

Scootaloo sat up on her bed, a determined look on her face as she knows exactly how to end this. She jumps out of her bed and exits her room, she walks down the stairs and into the living room where her parents and grandmother are. The three adults take notice of Scootaloo's arrival as well as determined look on her face.

"Is everything alright Scoots?" Soarin asks with a hint of concern.

"I'm fine dad, I know now how to put an end to this."

The sound of the doorbell can be heard as Sunset exited the living room to answer it.

"Hey Sunset, I'm guessing Rarity already told you why I'm here." Rainbow Dash said as she flashes Sunset a smile.

"She did, I'll go get the box." Sunset went to back to the living room before returning with the violet box.
"Here you go."

"Cool, thanks." Rainbow Dash reached out to retrieve the box when Sunset's phone started ringing.

After handing over the box to Rainbow Dash, Sunset checks her phone and sees that it's from her aunt.

"Hello?"

Sunset, Scootaloo's family has just informed us that they have reached a decision.

"What did they decide?" Sunset asks warily.

They have decided to announce their marriage and Scootaloo as their daughter.

"What?!"

"Sunset, what's wrong?" Rainbow Dash asks worriedly.

"Scootaloo's family decided to go public about them being family." Sunset tells her.

Rainbow's eyes widen upon hearing this. "No way!"

"Auntie you have to convince them to hold off on that." Sunset pleaded.

I'm afraid that's completely out of our hands now. Luna says in a soft voice.

"What do you mean?" Sunset asks, dreading the answer.

I'll send you a link so you can see for yourself. with that said Luna hangs up and a minute later Sunset receives a text from her aunt, a link which Sunset activates. It takes her to Mystable, specifically Spitfire's. Sunset's eyes widen upon seeing what was posted.

"Sunset, what is it?" Rainbow Dash asks.

Sunset wordlessly hands her the phone and as soon as Rainbow Dash sees the post, her eyes widen. Spitfire had posted an image of herself and Soarin hugging Scootaloo with the caption My loving Family. Rainbow Dash looks at Sunset as she runs her broken hand through her hair.

"There's no going back from this." Sunset mutters.

"No, there isn't." Rainbow Dash agrees as she hands Sunset her phone back. "But we've got her back."

"Yeah." Sunset agrees as she smiles at Rainbow Dash.

"I guess I'll see you tomorrow." Rainbow Dash says awkwardly.

"Take care Dash." Sunset says goodbye to Rainbow Dash before closing the door, she then makes her way back to the living room and sits on the sofa before letting out a sigh.

"Why would they do this?"

Sunset tried to wrap her head around the decision they have made, she couldn't understand why they would throw away all the years of keeping Scootaloo out of the limelight.

"Sunset?"

Sunset was broken from her thoughts and turns her head to see Sweetie Belle. "Do you need something Sweetie Belle?"

"Um I finished all of my chores." Sweetie Belle says nervously.

"Then watch some T.V." Sunset says simply as she gets up from the couch. "I'll go to the kitchen and leave you alone."

"O-okay." Sweetie Belle quickly goes to take her seat on the sofa, making sure not to make physical contact with Sunset.

Sunset watches the frightened girl take her seat on the sofa, she fumbles with the remote control before turning on the television and going to her favorite channel. Sunset goes to the kitchen and takes a seat at the table, seeing Sweetie Belle look so frightened reminded her of how Scootaloo and Applebloom saw her the same way.

"Maybe I can help her like I did them." Sunset figured as she got up from her seat and went back in to the living room, she sees Sweetie Belle give her full attention to the show she's watching and knocks on the wall to get her attention. "Sweetie Belle, do you mind if we talk?"

"Huh? uh, sure!" Sweetie Belle hastily replies as she turns off the television. "What do you wanna talk about?"

"I just want to know if you're okay?" Sunset asks as she takes a seat next to Sweetie Belle.

"Yeah, I'm okay. Why wouldn't I be?" Sweetie Belle answers without looking at Sunset, squirming in her seat as the demon lays her wing on her shoulders.

"Well considering all that's happened, I was concerned if you were a little overwhelmed." Sunset states as she takes note of the way Sweetie Belle is shrugging her shoulders. "I know I was a little overwhelmed when the whole school hated me after the fall formal....and especially the last couple of days."

Sweetie Belle's demeaner changed at hearing the last part, the nervousness she felt was gone and replaced with sadness as she recalled how she watched everyone turn against Sunset and making her feel like she did at the fall formal.

But that's what I wanted, to do to her what she did to Rarity.

Sunset took notice of Sweetie Belle's changed demeaner and decided to press on. "Don't hold in how you're feeling Sweetie Belle, Rarity already made the mistake of not being completely honest of how she felt about me, and look what happened because of it."

At the mention of Rarity's name, Sweetie Belle thought back to how humiliated Rarity felt after she uploaded the pictures of the slumber party from Sunset's phone. She even caught her crumbling up sketches from her sketchbook and throwing them in her trash bin, when Sweetie Belle took a look at them she discovered they were all drawings of Sunset wearing different outfits. She even caught her on her fainting couch, wearing her nightgown, eating a bucket of ice cream as she wailed about being betrayed yet again.

"Why?"

"Huh?" Sunset blinked as she watches Sweetie Belle shoulders shake.

"Why did you humiliate her the way you did at the spring fling? do you realize how miserable you made her?!" Sweetie Belle shouted as she raised her head to glare at Sunset. "She looked herself in her room and refused to come out for days, it hurt so much to hear her crying from outside her room!"

Sunset bit her lip as she listen to Sweetie Belle, her words brought back the look of absolute horror on Rarity's face when her dress fell apart in front of the large crowed of students. she didn't have long to reminisce as Sweetie Belle continued.

"Whenever she did come out she looked nothing like she usually does, she looked like her cat Opal had died." Tears welled up in Sweetie Belle's eyes, but she still continued to stare into the demon's eyes. "She wouldn't even make dresses for a while, she just stares at the dress you ruined!"

The tears rolled down the sides of Sweetie Belle's face, but she still continued to glare at the demon with all her hate.

Sunset stared back sadly into Sweetie Belle's eyes, the anger in her eyes made her wonder if that's what she looked like when she yelled at her mother. She took a deep breath, then exhaled.

"There's no excuse for what I did, and you and Rarity have every right to hate me. But Sweetie Belle, if you have a problem with me then say it to my face instead of plotting behind your sisters back." Sunset narrowed her eyes which made Sweetie Belle loose all her anger. "You and I had the same idea to humiliate your sister to get what we wanted and end up regretting what we did."

"But there's one major difference, Rarity has already forgiven you."

Sweetie Belle's eyes widen at hearing this.

"I can see it in her eyes whenever she looks at you, in her actions whenever she fusses over your safety. Rarity will always support and love you....because you're family." Sunset places her hands on Sweetie Belle's shoulders. "You can hate me all you want Sweetie Belle, just don't drag anyone else into this."

Sweetie Belle's lips tremble before she lunges at Sunset and buries her face against her chest.

"I HATE YOU, I HATE YOU, I HATE YOU, I HATE YOU!!!"

Sunset wraps her arms around Sweetie Belle as she shouts how much she hates her, she can feel the young girl's anger flowing into her every time she utters those words. Sunset fights back tears that threatened to spill from her eyes, she mustn't cry, especially now. Sweetie Belle continued to cry for several minutes until she eventually fell asleep in Sunset's arms. Sunset carried Sweetie Belle to her room and tucked her in before going back to the living room to wait for Rarity.

A few hours later, Sunset heard the front door being unlocked before it was opened to reveal Rarity.

"My goodness what a day!" Rarity announced as she shook off the snow she accumulated on herself before stepping inside her house and closing the door.

"Welcome back Rarity, how was work?" Sunset asks as she greeted the young fashionista.

"It was hectic!" Rarity says with a raised voice. "You know the famous pop star singer Sapphire Shores?"

"Yeah." Sunset nods.

"Well she actually stopped by the store today to look for a unique outfit for her next show!" Rarity says excitedly. "And Miss Hemline asked me to personally show Miss Sapphire our collection!"

"Wow Rarity, that's great!" Sunset says with excitement, obviously very happy for Rarity.

"I Know! I have a picture too!" Rarity quickly pulls out her phone, scrolls through her photos before showing Sunset the photo of her with Sapphire Shores. "Miss Sapphire liked our collection so much that she bought the whole line and asked for a custom design for next year!"

"That's awesome, this will definitely boost your career!" Sunset said with glee.

"Right again darling!" Rarity was bouncing with joy, but then stopped as she realized something. her good mood took a dive as she let out a sigh.

"What's wrong?" Sunset asks worriedly.

"I just remembered that tomorrow Sweetie Belle and I have to speak with our family's lawyer regarding the lawsuit." Rarity explained as she wraps her arms around herself.

"Don't worry Rarity, I'm sure everything will work out fine." Sunset assures her.

"That's exactly what I said to Sweetie Belle, but the more I think about it the more I realize how serious the situation is." Rarity stated.

Sunset places her hands on Rarity's shoulders, making the fashionista look at her in confusion. "Everything will be fine Rarity, trust me."

Trust me. Those words echoed in Rarity's head, words that painfully reminder her of her folly. Rarity lifted her right hand and placed it over Sunset's left one and with a shaky smile she responded. "Okay."

Sunset smiled at Rarity's response and unknown to Rarity, Sunset had a plan that was already in motion.

"Oh Rarity, before I forget, as I was retrieving the box you told me about from under your bed; there was this second box that when my hand brushed against it, I felt a jolt go up through me."

Rarity's face paled at hearing this, Sunset took notice of this and became really concerned.

"Rarity, is there something in the box that I should be made aware of?" Sunset asks gently.

Rarity's body started trembling, she was berating herself internally for not properly hiding that accursed outfit. She looked at Sunset who was waiting for an answer, she thought about brushing off the question but knew that it'll be a mistake.

"It's....it's an outfit that I'm not very proud of making."

This caught Sunset's interest, Rarity said herself that she puts outfits that are a mistake in her closet of shame. But this one was hidden under her bed, and Rarity's reaction to her asking about it made her even more suspicious.

"Can you show me it?"

"No!" Rarity shouted which caused Sunset to recoil, realizing what she had done she quickly apologizes. "I-I'm sorry darling, it's just....it's best that you don't see it."

Rarity looks away from Sunset in shame, Sunset watches her for a moment before speaking.

"It has something to do with me right?"

Rarity's head snapped back to Sunset, her eyes wide in disbelief that Sunset had guessed correctly. "H-what makes you say that?"

"Rarity, I thought you learned to be more honest with me." Sunset said with a raised eyebrow.

"I don't want to hurt you more than I already have." Rarity answers immediately.

Sunset's expression soften at hearing this. "Rarity listen, I understand that you don't want to hurt me. But if you wait till later to tell me or not at all then you could end up hurting me much worse when what ever you're hiding gets out."

Rarity bit her lip as Sunset had a point, who am I kidding, Sunset's right. Anon-A-Miss is proof of that. She thought before letting out a sigh. "Okay, I'll show you."

"Thank you Rarity." Sunset said as she gave Rarity a smile.

"You won't be thanking me when you see it." Rarity said dejectedly, she led Sunset up the stair and into her room where she proceeded to pull out the box from under her bed, her heart pounded against her chest as she placed the box on top of her bed.

Sunset watches from over Rarity's shoulder as she slowly removes the lid from the box to reveal the outfit, it took Sunset a couple of seconds to recognize it.

"Oh."

Sunset stares at the outfit before reaching to pick it up, but she was shocked when Rarity suddenly grabbed onto her hand and looked at her with terror.

"P-please don't!" Rarity said in a voice filled with absolute horror and fear.

"R-Rarity?" Sunset was bewildered by Rarity's behavior, she had never seen the fashionista look so frightened before.

"I...I had a nightmare where this outfit turned you into that demon from the night of the fall formal." Rarity hastily said.

Sunset stared into Rarity's terrified eyes before looking back to the dress, she did feel something off about that it. She asked Rarity about it which she explained that she made it while she reviewed the ill feelings she had deep down about her.

"I guess that explains why you made it." Sunset says awkwardly.

"I am truly a wicked person." Rarity says as she wraps her arms around herself.

"I wouldn't say that." Sunset tried to assure Rarity, but she wasn't having it.

"This dress is a physical manifestation of my deep seeded loathing towards you, despite it being unladylike to hold a grudge, I couldn't completely let go of what you did to me at the fall formal." Rarity said bitterly.

"And you shouldn't." Sunset stated which surprised Rarity. "Don't get me wrong, holding a grudge isn't healthy. I should know. But you shouldn't keep it bottled up either, you should talk about what you're feeling."

"Like I should've done with you?" Rarity spoke softly.

"Yes." Sunset said simply. "Even if it'll be very painful to hear, it'll spare us further pain down the line."

"Oh darling." tears welled up in Rarity's eyes as she looked at Sunset. "You are too kind, I was such a fool for taking that kindness for granted."

Sunset wraps her arms around Rarity, holding the girl close as she cried on her shoulder. She felt the fashionista's shame, sadness and self hatred, a stark contrast to Sweetie Belle. Sunset looked over the outfit and had an idea, she pulls back a bit and looks at Rarity who had mascara running down her cheeks.

"Rarity, how would you like it if I helped you deal with your negative feelings towards me?"

"I..I would very much appreciate that darling." Rarity agreed a little surprised at Sunset's offer.

"Then we'll need this." Sunset reached for the dress and as soon as she grabbed it, she felt that same jolt of electricity go up her arm. She ignored it as she pulled the outfit out of the box, much to Rarity's horror.

"Sunset!"

"This is going to help us." Sunset said as she raise her hand to stop Rarity from protesting further. "Also I'm going to temporarily remove the spell I placed on you, it won't do any good wearing this if you already see me as a demon right?"

"R-Right." Rarity said shakily.

Sunset closed her eyes and started concentrating, Rarity watched as the demon started emitting a red aura, her features becoming more monstrous. The demon's eyes snapped open to reveal the familiar teal eyes of Sunset, just then the demon's wings began to fade, her rising flaming hair was being erased as a pair of pony ears were exposed. Rarity could not help but weep as the smiling, familiar face of Sunset broke through the demon's sneer. Her sharp eyes took in every detail as the true Sunset was revealed, more tears cascaded down the sides of her face as she took in the presence of Sunset Shimmer, the real Sunset Shimmer. Rarity fell to her knees as she covered her face with her palms.

"Rarity!" Sunset quickly knelt down beside Rarity. "Are you alright?!"

"I'm fine darling, it's just....it feels like an eternity since I've seen the real you." Rarity cried. "And you're even more beautiful than I remembered."

Sunset opened her mouth to speak, but closed it as she didn't know what to say in this situation. Rarity soon stopped crying and gave Sunset an assuring smile.

"I'm okay now darling."

"Okay, I'm going to go change now." Sunset tells Rarity as she walks towards the bathroom.

Rarity watches Sunset leave before getting up and sitting properly on her bed, a couple of minutes later Sunset returned now wearing the demon dress.

"How do I look?" Sunset asks as she does a twirl.

"You uh, look great darling." Rarity complimented, giving Sunset a strained smile.

"I don't know whether to be happy or upset about that." Sunset teased before exiting Rarity's room once again to change out of the dress.

Rarity lets out a sigh as she rests her elbows on her knees, suddenly having second thoughts about accepting Sunset's offer to help. Sunset soon came back and the two girls engaged in some conversation, Sunset informed Rarity about what Scootaloo's family had decided and although the fashionista was concerned for the young girl, she promised to support her. Sunset soon had to leave and after saying goodbye to Rarity, she started making her way home. Along the way she heard a car horn behind her causing her to turn around to see her mother's car pull up next to her.

"Need a lift?" Celestia asks with a smile.

Sunset smiles as she climbs into the backseat, Celestia informed her that Luna would be meeting them later at Sunset's apartment before they talked about Sunset's visit to Rarity's place as well as the status of Sunset's plan. They eventually arrived at Sunset's apartment where Celestia proceeded to the kitchen to make dinner while Sunset texted her friends to update them about what Scootaloo and her parents decided. sometime later Luna arrived with Discord and they all had a nice family dinner before they left with more of Sunset's things.

"Morning Sunshine." Gilda greeted Sunset as she approached.

"How long are you going to milk that?" Sunset asks annoyed as she stops in front of Gilda and Lightning Dust.

"For everything it's worth." Gilda answers with a big smile before she and Lightning Dust broke out in laughter.

Sunset merely rolls her eyes, the trio waited for the rest of their friends, chatting a bit about the latest games or upcoming Christmas plans. Their conversation was interrupted when they heard the students gasping and when they turned around they saw Soarin exit from the passenger side of a car while Spitfire emerged from the drivers side, Soaring opens the back door to let Scootaloo out. Scootaloo looks to her parents with a big smile as she takes a hold of their hands and together they walk to the school.

Sunset smiles at seeing the happy family, but that smile vanishes when she hears the whispers around her.

"Can you believe she's the Wonderbolts kid?"

"I almost wish it was Sunset." a female student said in disgust.

"I hope she feels terrible for bringing shame to her parents."

Sunset grit her teeth as she heard them bad mouth Scootaloo, it brought back memories of when she was younger and studying under princess Celestia, the nobles would act proper to her in front of the princess, but Sunset found out how they really felt about her when she stumbled upon some nobles talking about her. They questioned whether she was worthy of studying under the princess and if the princess took her as her student because she pitied her, that angered Sunset and from then on she developed a distain for the nobles as well as an enjoyment in seeing them humiliated.

"Morning Sunset." Scootaloo greeted Sunset cheerfully which snapped her out of her thoughts.

"Morning Scootaloo." Sunset greeted the young girl before addressing her parents. " And a good morning to you two as well."

"Good morning Sunset." Spitfire greeted the teen. "We never got a chance to thank you for saving our daughter."

"Think nothing of it, I'm just glad I intercepted the blow in time. Besides you two saved us in the end." Sunset pointed out.

"Hey squirt, doesn't you usually come to school with Dash?" Lightning Dust asked.

"Yeah, come to think of it I hasn't seen the rest of the Rainbooms or your friends." Sunset noted as she looked around for the Rainbooms.

"Rainbow Dash called earlier and told me that she'll be late." Scootaloo informed them. "Said she wanted to get some practice in."

"Well that explains Dash, but what about the others?" Gilda asked just as the school bell rang.

"I guess we'll worry about them later." Sunset said as she watched Spitfire and Soarin hug Scootaloo goodbye before she, Lightning Dust and Gilda escorted Scootaloo inside the school.

As they made their way towards their lockers, Sunset spotted Applejack placing her books inside her locker.

"Applejack!" Sunset called out, gaining Applejack's attention.

"Oh, hey there Sunset." Applejack greeted the former unicorn.

"How come you weren't waiting outside like you usually are every morning and where's Applebloom?" Sunset asks curiously.

"Sorry 'bout that, ah had a meeting with mah club this morning an' Applebloom is home sick." Sunset explained.

"Oh, I hope she's okay." Sunset said worriedly.

"It's just a cold, nothin' to worry about. Big Mac is watching her." Applejack assures her although she was a little worried about her herself.

"Have you seen the rest of the girls?" Sunset inquires.

"They had their club activities too, Shy an' Rare's texted me earlier, said they couldn't meet me this morning because of club duties. Dash said she was going to do some solo practice this morning, as for Pinkie Pie..."

"Good morning." Pinkie greeted as she approached the girls. "I just checked around the school to make sure Sunset and the Crusaders don't get any bad surprises."

"Good morning Pinkie, and thanks for checking." Sunset tells her, appreciating the effort Pinkie took to make sure she and the Crusader were safe.

"Scootaloo!"

The girls turn to see Rarity and Sweetie Belle accompanied by Dumbbell and Flash.

"Hey Sweetie Belle!" Scootaloo greets her best friend before hugging her.

"Morning Darlings." Rarity greeted the girls as the rest of the group exchanged greetings.

They chatted as they picked up the books they needed from their lockers before going to class, Rarity, Applejack and Pinkie Pie felt like everything was like before. Like Anon-A-Miss never happened, but they knew that wasn't true as the way they see Sunset can attest.

"Hmm?" Sunset was on her way to the next class when she felt movement in her backpack , she took off her pack and checked inside to discover her journal glowing and vibrating. She pulls it out and flips the pages until she finds the new message.

Dear Sunset Shimmer,

I've finished making the heart stones you asked for, all that's missing is your positive magic.

Sunset smiled as she read this, she quickly pulls out a pen and begins to write a response.

That's great! I'll contact you after school so we can deliver it to them.

Understood, I'll be waiting for your reply.

Sunset closes her book and puts it away before she continues on her way to her next class.

Sunset waved goodbye to Lightning Dust and Gilda as they drove off in Gilda's car, the Crusaders have left with their families and although there was some initial trouble at school because of the information that Scootaloo was Soarin and Spitfire's real daughter, but it was mostly whisper which Sunset and her friends listened carefully to determine if any pose a threat. She pulls out her journal and messages Twilight that she can come over, after receiving a reply, Sunset waits patiently by the portal. She didn't have to wait long as the surface of the statue's base began to ripple just before princess Twilight emerged.

"Sunset!" Twilight said Sunset's name with joy as she gave her friend a hug.

"Good to see you Twilight and I see you're wearing the appropriate attire." Sunset said slyly.

"Yep, no more freezing my tail off." Twilight replies, showing off her winter attire. both girls start giggling before they heard a familiar voice behind Twilight.

"Whoa nelly!"

Twilight quickly turns around in time to see Applejack stumble forward, obviously not used to her new body. Twilight quickly reaches out to catch her before she fell.

"Thanks sugarcube, ah wasn't expectin' to look like..well this." Applejack said as she gestured towards herself, like Twilight she also had on her winter clothes. "Not to mention ah feel kind of off."

"It's alright Applejack, it felt weird for me too when I first came here." Twilight assures her marefriend.

"Uh, Twilight?"

Twilight turns to see Sunset while Applejack leans to the left to look at red and yellow haired girl.

"What's your world's Applejack doing here?" Sunset asks.

"Well, when I told her that I would be accompanying you to see the sirens, she insisted on coming along." Twilight answered Sunset sheepishly.

" There aint no way ah'm lettin' you two face those monsters alone." Applejack stated as she wrapped her arm around Twilight's waist. "Yah said it yerself Twi, those girls are dangerous."

"Applejack I appreciate your concern, but Sunset and I can handle this. They aren't in the best condition and they've been getting worse." Twilight tries to assure Applejack.

"Then why did yah tell Spike he couldn't come because it might be dangerous?" Applejack questioned as she raised an eyebrow.

"Well, you see...."Twilight tried to come up with an answer but was unable too.

"Ah thought so." Applejack stated, smiling in victory before leaning in and kissing Twilight's cheek, causing her to blush.

"Sorry to interrupt this moment, but we really must be going." Sunset reminded them.

Both girls nodded as Sunset lead them to the sirens place, Applejack held on to Twilight as she tries to adjust to her new body. Applejack was amazed by the people and cites, she asked Sunset questions about her world and she was happy to answer. Sunset would take notice of the way Applejack and Twilight acted and figured that their relationship was very advance so she didn't see the harm in asking them a question.

"Say Twilight, I'm guessing you, Applejack and Rainbow Dash are a herd right?"

Twilight's cheeks turn red at being asked that intimate question. "W-well yes, we became one not too long ago."

"We've been dating Twilight fer a couple months now, but we've been friends since she first got to Ponyville." Applejack added, her cheeks rosy.

"How did you three got together if you don't mind me asking?" Sunset question as they came to a stop on the corner of the street.

"Well...it was because of a mistake." Applejack said with shame.

"Oh?" Sunset was curious as to what kind of mistake would bring them-her eyes widen in realization. "Don't tell me you two got Twilight pregnant!"

"What?!" Twilight shouted, earning curious looks from the surrounding pedestrians. "N-no, it wasn't something like that!"

"Me and the rest of our friends didn't believe Twilight at her brother's wedding when she told us that the bride, princess Cadance was an imposter!" Applejack explained. "sides, ah can never call a foal ah have with Twilight a mistake."

Twilight blushed even harder at hearing Applejack say that, she gently squeezed Applejack's hand in appreciation.

Sunset noticed something very familiar about that, but before she could ask, Applejack continued.

"The girls and ah were ashamed at how we treated Twi, so we did our best to make up for how we betrayed her." Applejack informs Sunset, her voice filled with regret.

"Applejack, you don't have to call it that." Twilight said. "My behavior at the wedding was questionable, and I admit it really hurt to see you all turn your backs on me. but it wasn't without reason."

Applejack and Twilight stared deep into each other's eyes, a silent conversation going on between them before Applejack smiled and nodded.

"Anyway, as we spent more time with Twilight, the more closer we got, and before we realized it, we fell in love with her."

"I admit that I was flattered and surprised that two of my best friends would ask me out, and to be honest I also developed feelings for them since we started becoming closer." Twilight said with a blush. " I said yes and well...we soon became a herd."

Twilight and Applejack leaned against each other as they nuzzled their faces, Sunset found the sight and the story very heartwarming. She wondered if there was still hope for her and Rainbooms? The girls continued on their way and whenever the group encountered large crowds, Applejack would start to become really uncomfortable and Twilight would hold her close, whisper comforting words to her as she attempted to keep her calm until they ventured away from the crowds. They finally arrived where the sirens lived and as they stepped up to the front door, Applejack braced herself for the worst. Sunset knocked on the door and waited for a reply, they heard footsteps approaching the door before it was unlocked and opened to reveal a very pale looking Sonata.

"Hello." Sonata greeted weakly before coughing violently.

"H-hi, we brought the heart stones." Sunset said, she was shocked at how terrible the siren looked.

"Yay, now we can get better." Sonata said cheerfully, at least as cheerfully as she could given her condition.

Sonata motioned the girls inside as she closed the front door, she led the girls in the house where they saw Aria who didn't look as bad as Sonata.

"Please tell me you have the heart stones?" Aria asked.

"Yes, we do." Twilight answers.

"Thank fucking god!" Aria shouts. "I don't know how much longer Adagio can last, she looks practically dead."

Aria and Sonata led them to Adagio's room, they paled upon seeing how sick Adagio looked. She was laying on her bed, her complexion was so pale and malnourished, her hair looked so dull that it would make Rarity faint.

"Adagio, wake up. Sunset's and her friends are here with the heart stones." Aria says softly as she gently shakes Adagio awake.

Adagio groans as her eyes flutter open, she looks in the direction of Sunset and her companions and smirks slightly. "Well, you sure took your sweet time."

"Sorry about the wait, but these were tricky to make." Twilight spoke as she reached into her coat pocket and pulls out a jewelry box.

The sirens watch in anticipation as Twilight opens the box, but raised their eyebrows when the heart stones are yellow colored.

"Alright, what did you do with these?" Aria asks suspiciously.

"You'll find these heart stones aren't like your previous ones, for starters they are powered with positive energy instead of negative." Twilight explained.

"You mean your so called magic of friendship." Aria said sarcastically.

"Don't underestimate the magic of friendship, the night of the battle of the bands final round you saw for yourself what our magic can do. it was stronger than yours." Sunset argued.

Adagio smirked. "Oh really? may I remind you that your friends-oh wait, former friends I should say and the princess here used the magic of friendship against us and we still beat them. It was only after you joined in that they had enough power to beat us."

"Besides, how did that magic work out for you?"

"Honestly, pretty well. I probably lost some good friends but found some real ones too. That's what I'm offering all of you." Sunset proposed.

"The way you said good friends implies that you still think of them with high regard." Adagio noted before she started coughing.

"They took me in and taught me the magic of friendship, if it wasn't for them I wouldn't have the friends I do now." Sunset argued.

Adagio and Sunset stared each other down until Adagio closed her eyes, a sinister smirk on her lips.

"Fine be me, if you still wanna call those girls friends despite their betrayal then go right ahead. I'm sure they won't betray you again as long as you're useless to them."

Sunset ignored that remark as she motioned for Twilight to give them the heart stones, once each of the sirens received their heart stones, Sunset closes her eyes as she started concentrating, everyone watches carefully until a red outline forms around Sunset's body, pony ears sprout from on top of her head and her hair extends into a pony tail. The sirens hearts stones start glowing as a stream of energy flows from Sunset and into stones, the sirens felt a soothing wave course through their bodies. it felt different than the usual energy they feed upon, but not at all unpleasant. Twilight and Applejack watch in amazement as color starts to return to the sirens, with each passing second they grow in strength. Adagio smirks as she feels the magic of friendship course through her and her sisters, whoever instead of the rush she usually felt when feeding, she felt strangely calm and at peace. Sunset for her part was focusing greatly on all the positives of her life, becoming friends with Twilight and the girls, the fun times they shared, meeting Gilda and the others, helping out the Crusaders. Gaining a family. All these thoughts filled her mind as her magic flowed into the sirens.

Finally after about 5 minutes, Sunset cuts off the flow of magic, her pony ears and extended pony tail disappearing.

"Well, that wasn't too bad." Adagio spoke before getting out of bed and stretching, she felt her strength had returned, but nowhere near the amount she used to have. "No wonder you were able to beat us."

"I'll say." Aria looked at her hands as she opened and closed them, she felt a hell out a lot better than she did before Sunset gave them her magic.

"I feel fantastic!" Sonata cheered, feeling like her old self again.

"I'm glad to hear that, this method will not only replace your usual magic intake but reverse all the negatives your body may have suffered as a result of feeding off dark emotions." Twilight explained.

The sirens placed their hand over their heart stones and as one started to sing, Twilight and Sunset were on edge but when nothing happened they relaxed.

"It appears that we can't access our magic." Adagio concluded before looking at the girls. "This is your doing I take it?"

"Yes, you can only have access to your magic during sessions like this and even then it will only be used to restore your health." Twilight stated firmly.

"You didn't honestly think we would give you access to your magic did you?" Sunset questioned as she crossed her arms.

"No, I didn't think you would." Adagio said with a mile. "It is regrettable that we can't use magic, but it's better than the alternative I suppose. Thanks."

"You're welcome." Twilight responded.

"So how long will this last until we need another refueling?" Adagio asked as she flexed her wrist.

"At least a week, I'll come by the same time next week for another session." Sunset informs them.

"Then we'll see you next week." Adagio said with a smile.

With their business done, the girls left the sirens home.

"Well that went over well." Sunset spoke once they were far enough away from the sirens house.

"Yes, for once everything is going exactly as we wanted it to go." Twilight said happily.

"How about we go to the mall and celebrate? I know this stand that sells delicious scones, my treat." Sunset offered.

"That's mighty kind of yah Sunset." Applejack said in appreciation as she tilted her hat.

The girls made their way towards the mall, along they way they talked about what has been happening in equestria.

"Ah still can't believe yah are princess Celestia's daughter." Applejack said as she gave a slight bow. "sorry for not showing the proper respect ma'am."

"Applejack, that's really not necessary." Sunset assures her.

"Ah know, ah'm just teasing." Applejack said as she winked at Sunset, which earned her an elbow to the ribs by Twilight.

"Knock it off AJ." Twilight chastised. "Anyway Sunset, princess Celestia wanted me to tell you that your coronation will be after Hearths Warming."

"Which means yer gonna have to visit equestria to be fitted for yer dress, the princess has personally asked Rarity to make it." Applejack chuckled as she recalled how excited Rarity was to be given the job. "Ah swear, ah never seen that girl look so happy since the time she was asked to make princess Cadance' s wedding dress."

The girls shared a laugh as they continued their way towards the mall, upon arriving Applejack became uncomfortable due to the large crowds, but Twilight held her close and laid a kiss on her cheek to keep her calm. They arrived at Gilda's scone stand and after some introductions, the three equestrians took their scones and went to take a seat by the food court.

"That scone was delicious." Twilight commented. "Be sure to give Gilda my compliments."

"Will do and I'm glad you enjoyed it." Sunset said with a smile.

"Um Sunset, where can ah use the bathroom?" Applejack asked as she looked around for one.

"It's right this way." Sunset lead Applejack to the nearest restroom.

Sunset and Twilight waited outside the restroom for Applejack when someone carrying a lot of presents tripped, causing the presents to spread out on the floor. Sunset and Twilight immediately went to assist the man just as Applejack exited the restroom.

"Twilight? Sunset?" Applejack looked around for her two companions but the large crowds prevented her from seeing them help the man pick up the gifts he dropped.

Applejack started to wander away from the restroom to look for the girls, calling out their names in hopes they can hear her. As she walked around she spotted someone very familiar working at a fruit juice stand.

"Here are yer drinks girls, enjoy." Applejack said as she handed the two girls their fruit drinks.

The girls thanked Applejack and after they handed over the money for their drinks they left the stand, Applejack started to clean up her work station when she heard her own voice coming from behind her.

"Howdy."

Applejack quickly turned around to see herself looking at her with a disarming smile. "What in tarnation?!"

"Sorry to bother yah, but ah was wondering if yah had a minute to talk." Applejack asked.

"W-who are yah and why do yah look like me?!" Human Applejack demanded.

"Oh, mah apologies. mah name is Applejack and ah'm your double from equestria." Applejack explained.

"Mah double?" Human Applejack questioned.

"Ah came here with mah marefriend to visit a friend of hers, ah think yah know her. her name is Sunset Shimmer." Applejack informed her human counterpart.

"A-ah see, so what would yah like to talk about." Human Applejack asks as she continues to clean up the counter, she wonder what her equestrian self meant by marefriend.

"Twilight told me about what happened with yah girls and Sunset." Applejack began.

Human Applejack lets out a sigh at that. "Are yah going to tell me how badly ah messed up and how disappointed yah are at me?"

Applejack shakes her head. "None of that, ah can see as plain as day how much yer suffering because of what yah and yer friends did."

Applejack rest her elbows on the front counter. "Ah see the deep regret, the self anger and disappointment."

Human Applejack is surprised at how well her equestrian counterpart knows her. "Heh, yah are definitely me double alright."

"It's more than that, ah understand how yah feel because ah also betrayed a friend." Applejack confessed. "Ah felt the same way yer feeling now."

"Then how did yah deal with it?" Human Applejack asked, she sounded desperate. "Ah can't even look at Sunset without being reminded on how ah stabbed her in the back."

"Yah can't turn away from what yah done, no matter how painful." Applejack advised her. "Ah know it may seem hard now, but yah can't give up. Yah owe it to Sunset to try."

"Ah owe her more than ah can possibly repay." Human Applejack said.

"In that case yah got to show her how much yah really appreciate her." Applejack stated, smiling warmly.

"Yeah." Human Applejack said with a sigh.

"Applejack!"

Both Applejack's turn to the direction where they heard their names and saw Twilight and Sunset looking around.

"Must be looking for me." Applejack said as she steps away from the stand. "It was nice talking to yah."

"Same here." Human Applejack replied. "And thanks fer the advice."

"Anytime." Applejack tilts her hat forward to her human counterpart before walking towards Twilight and Sunset.

Humane Applejack watches her equestrian counterpart walk away, she ponders the advice her counterpart gave her as she continues with her work.

"It was great having you visit Twilight and you as well Applejack." Sunset said as she hugs Applejack and Twilight.

"We'll be sure to visit again." Twilight promised as she and Applejack went through the portal and back to equestria.

Sunset pulls out her phone and dials her mother's number, she tells her where she is before hanging up and going towards the school. She makes her way down the halls and towards her office. She enters inside and sees her aunt sitting on the secretary desk.

"Hey Sunset, how was your day with Twilight?" Luna asked as she greeted her niece.

"It was fun." Sunset simply said as she and her aunt entered her mother's office to see Celestia sitting at her desk along with numerous people around her.

"Shimmer?" A female student raised an eyebrow at seeing her. "What are you doing here?"

Sunset smiles as she and her aunt step inside the room. "Hello everyone and thank you for coming."

Severals have passed and despite the extra attention to Scootaloo from the reveal of her being Spitfire and Soarin's daughter, Sunset, her friends, and the Rainbooms have done a good job of not only keeping Scootaloo safe but from the prying eyes of the media. Soon the day of the Apple family Christmas party has arrived and the Rainbooms were obviously very anxious.

Sunset takes a look at her apartment that had been her home for the past 3 years, everything that had meaning to her had been moved to her new room at her mother's home. Sunset felt a tinge of sadness at leaving her apartment, but new that she would be moving to a better place with her new family. Sunset picked up two bags full of presents and exited her apartment for the final time, she made her way downstairs where her aunt was waiting for her outside her apartment.

"Did you get everything you need?" Luna asks as she and Sunset walk to her car.

"Yep." Sunset nodded as she and her aunt got into the car and drove towards the Apple farm.

"Nervous?" Luna asked without looking at her niece.

"A little." Sunset said honestly, she was dreading this day like the girls.

"I'm here for you whenever you need me, just give me a call and I'll come pick you up if you find yourself overwhelmed." Luna offered.

"Thanks aunt Luna, you're the best." Sunset told her aunt as she flashed her a smile.

"That's what aunts do." Luna said with a shrug before she and Sunset broke out in laughter.

The rest of the drive was silent as Luna concentrated on the road while Sunset looked out of the passenger window, she watched as the city gave way to farmland, all the while the image of her and the Rainbooms smiling and laughing flashed through her mind. Eventually they arrived at the Apple family farm as Luna pulled up to the front of the house.

"Have fun Sunset." Luna told her niece, as she gave her an assuring smile.

"I'll try." Sunset told her, waving goodbye as her aunt drove off.

Sunset walked towards the front door, taking a deep breath and letting it out before ringing the doorbell. She waited a bit before the door was opened by Applejack.

"Howdy there Sunset!" Applejack greeted the former unicorn, stepping aside to let her in. "Come on in, we've been watin' for yah."

"Thanks Applejack." Sunset thanked the cowgirl as she entered the Apple residence.

Applejack lead her to the living room where the rest of the Rainbooms, the Crusaders along with Applejack's brother grandfather and grandmother.

"Hiya sunny!" Pinkie waved at Sunset enthusiastically from the snack table. her hair still being flat but she did appear to have a little more color to her complexion.

Sunset waved back as she was greeted by the rest of the occupants of the room, Sunset sat with the Crusaders as they told her stories about this misadventures, she shared a laugh with Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash as they told her about the pranks they pulled on the girls and other unsuspecting people. She joined Rarity and Fluttershy in knitting some Christmas stockings to hang over the fireplace, and she enjoyed a cup of hot chocolate with Applejack as they both sat on the sofa. Overall Sunset had a very enjoyable time with everyone, it was late into the evening when the phone rang.

"Ah'll get it." Granny Smith announced as she went to answer the phone.

Sunset watched Granny Smith as she picked up the phone and after talking for a bit her eyes suddenly widened, Sunset took this as her cue. She walked over to Granny Smith as she was nodded furiously to whoever was on the other line before hanging up. She looked towards Sunset who was approaching her and her eyes lit up in realization upon seeing her knowing smile. She opened her mouth to speak but Sunset placed her finger over her own lips, telling Granny Smith to stay quiet.

"Not yet." Sunset told. "I'll tell you when."

Granny Smith nodded as she gave Sunset a thankful smile, wiping her eyes from any forming tears.

Sunset went back to the living room and gathered everyone's attention. "If I may have your attention please!"

All conversation stopped as all eyes were on Sunset.

"First I want to say thank you to Applejack and her family for the wonderful party, I really enjoyed myself." Sunset spoke with gratitude.

"Yer very welcome sugarcube." Applejack spoke from her spot on the sofa.

"And I want to say that despite what I decide tonight, I will forever be grateful to the girls for taking me in and teaching me about friendship...even if what we had wasn't real to you girls, it at least felt real to me." Sunset spoke the last part sadly.

The girls faces fell upon hearing that and they were filled with dread about Sunset's answer.

"Rarity, I have never forgotten about what I did to you at the Spring fling and neither have you." Sunset began. "I turned a night that was suppose to be wonderful for you into a nightmare, a nightmare that haunted you afterwards. I am so sorry."

"When you reached out a hand to me I was shocked, even after what I did to you, you still wanted to befriend me. But you still wanted a little payback in the form of me being your personal model." Sunset chuckled. "But you never really forgave me, even after I helped you all defeat the sirens and we became closer, you never truly forgot what I did and because of that we can't truly be friends again."

Sunset watched Rarity gasp in horror as she held her face in her hands. "But if you work through those issues then maybe we can in the future."

Rarity's look of horror quickly turned hopeful upon hearing that, Sunset cast a smile her way before looking at Fluttershy.

"Fluttershy, you were so shy and vulnerable. it was so easy to keep you down without the rest of the girls by your side. Even when I was learning friendship from you girls, you were cautious around me and rightfully so. But that didn't stop you from showing me kindness." Sunset wiped away a stray tear before continuing. "It's pretty obvious that you still have plenty of issues with me, but like Rarity if you can work through them then there's still a chance that we can be friends again, I can help if you if you want."

Tears spilled from Fluttershy's eyes at hearing that, she gave Sunset a determined look and a firm nod, she had a lot of work ahead of her, but if she can get through it then she can be friends with Sunset again.

Sunset looked to Pinkie Pie who was looking at her expectantly, she then looked to the Christmas tree where she placed her bags full of presents. She walked over to it and pulled one out that was covered in a party balloon wrapper, she then walked back to Pinkie Pie and handed her the present.

"Back in equestria we have a holiday that combines your fourth of July and Christmas, it's called Hearths Warming." Sunset explained as Pinkie took the present .

Pinkie Pie looked at the present curiously before unwrapping it, she then opened the box and as soon as she did, colorful confetti exploded from within the box and on her face. Pinkie blinked in surprise before looking at Sunset who had a beaming smile.

"I was in a bad place after the fall formal but you made sure that I had a smile everyday, there were times when the hateful stares of the school would get to me, but you would make me laugh with one of your pranks on Rainbow Dash. You made an effort to be there for me, accepted me with open arms. Even though you slipped up, I want to give you the same second chance you gave me." Sunset stated.

Pinkie Pie stared at Sunset for a moment, tears welled up in her eyes as her hair instantly regained it's puffiness. her lips trembled as she dove towards Sunset, wrapping the girl in a tight hug as she cried on her shoulder.

"Oh Sunset! I promise not to let this second chance go to waste!"

"I know you won't." Sunset whispers as she held on to the crying girl.

Pinkie soon stops her crying as she pulls back to give Sunset a toothy smile, but it quickly vanishes as she realizes that she was the only one given the second chance. She turns back to look at her friends who are smiling at her.

"You guys.."

"It's alright Darling." Rarity spoke as she dapped at the corners of her eyes with her napkin.. "You've earned your second chance."

"Yeah Pinkie, yah definitely earned it." Applejack added.

Pinkie smiles at the girls before giving Sunset one last hug and returning to her seat.

"Applejack, you really made me work hard to make up for what I did. Those hours I spent working with you on the farm helped me better understand myself and gave me the courage to open up to you about my issues and regrets I had with my mother, your honesty helped me to be more honest with myself and you became someone I admired and aspired to be." Sunset lets out a shuddering breath. "I was so happy to hear you say I was like family, I felt so happy to finally belong...but then you abandoned me."

Tears welled up in Sunset's eyes as she stared at Applejack.

"You lied to me Applejack, you lied to my face when you called me family. All those wonderful moments we had together and the sleepovers were all a lie. Because of that I can't forgive you."

Sunset's tears fell from the sides of her cheeks as she looks into the devastated eyes of Applejack who was crying as well. She then directed her attention to Rainbow Dash.

"Dash, you made it no secret how much you despised me. But even so I appreciated that about you, I saw in you a rival that challenged me to be better and rise from the ashes. You've always had my back and stuck by me no matter what. or so I thought."

Rainbow Dash visibly gulped as she prepared for what was coming.

"You betrayed me Dash, it wasn't bad enough that you and the girls abandoned me. But you plotted to have me jumped and beaten!" Sunset raised her voice as she glared at Dash. " I may have broken your friendships Rainbow, but I would never stoop so low as to have someone physically hurt! I can never forgive you Rainbow Dash!"

Rainbow Dash's world came crumbling down at that declaration as she collapsed to her hands and knees, tears cascaded down her eyes and on to the floor as her body felt numb.

"However I will acknowledge the efforts you're making to better yourself, and although you're nowhere near ready for me to consider giving you a second chance, if I see that you're truly honest and serious about making it up to me..." She casts Applejack a glance. "Then I'll consider giving both of you a second chance."

Rainbow shuts her eyes as a sob rocks her body. "Thank you Sunset.....thank you so much."

Sunset watches Rainbow Dash and Applejack cry their thanks before looking at Granny Smith. "Granny Smith, I had a wonderful time at your party, but if you don't mind I think I should be getting home now." Sunset then pulls out her phone and texts her aunt to come pick her up.

"I hope you girls enjoy your presents, I picked them out before Anon-A-Miss." Sunset pointed to her bags. "I got you all one last gift too, Granny Smith."

All eyes turned to Granny Smith.

"That call a moment ago was from the lawyers of the families that are suing us, he called to say that the families are dropping the lawsuits."

Everyone was shocked at this news.

"But why would they-"Applejack's eyes widen in realization as she quickly turns to Sunset. "Yah did this?"

Sunset nodded.

"B-but why?"

"Because I don't want you all to suffer." Sunset said softly but they all still heard her. "I paid off all the families using the gems I had back in equestria. I asked Twilight to talk to my mother in equestria and ask for some gems that I have saved up. a single gem is worth a fortune here. So I had no problem paying off the families."

"Sunset....I don't know how we can possibly thank you." Rarity said gratefully.

"Just remember that If any of you need help, please don't hesitate to ask me. Just because you abandoned me doesn't mean that I'll do the same." Sunset stated while making a slight jab at them, her phones message tone alerted her and when she checked it was from her aunt telling her that she was on her way. She went to the front door and took her coat from the coat rack before putting it on.

"Sunset wait!"

Sunset turns around to see Pinkie Pie approaching with a bag filled with presents.

"Don't forget your presents!"

Sunset smiled as she accepted the presents from Pinkie Pie. " Thanks Pinkie, you guys can open your presents now too and as we say in equestria, Happy Hearths Warming."

"Merry Christmas Sunset." Pinkie replied.

Sunset looks behind Pinkie to the rest. "Happy Hearths Warming everyone!"

Sunset turns around and opens the door before exiting the Apples home, the occupants of the room were silent as Pinkie returns. She walks towards the Christmas tree and brings back Sunset's presents.

"Sunset says we can open our presents." Pinkie Pie tells everyone as she begins handing out presents.

Rarity holds her presents which is a very big one wrapped in a diamond theme wrapping paper, she delicately unwraps it to reveal the lid of the box, she pulls it off and her eyes widen in surprise. She reaches inside and pulls out some fabric that felt softer than silk, her eyes then caught something underneath it and when she saw it she couldn't believe it. setting the fabric aside she shakily reached inside and pulled out a beautiful dress that matched the one she wore at the spring fling, There was a note attached to it.

Dear Rarity, although I can never make up for the pain I caused you, I can at least right a wrong. Remember how I asked to have the remains of your dress as a reminder to myself to never again hurt someone as I hurt you? Well I talked to Twilight and she had your counterpart fix it as well as throw in some fabric from equestria that I have no doubt you'll make good use of. Thank you for everything you've done for me Rarity, you truly are the most generous person I know.

Tears stained with mascara began to fall on the letter as Rarity was truly touched by Sunset's words and her gift. She pulls the letter up to her face as she starts wailing.

Applejack was next to open her present which was wrapped in an apple theme wrapping paper, she is pleasantly surprised to see that it's a case of brand new tools she can use around the farm. Applejack wraps her arms around the case as she softly cries.

Fluttershy receives a small box wrapped in butterfly themes wrapping paper, she carefully removes the wrapping paper before removing the lid of the box to find a train ticket and a note.

Flutterhsy I know how much you wanted to see the Butterfly migration so I got you a train ticket to go see them! Have fun and be sire to take lots of Pictures!

Fluttershy buries her face in her palms as she starts crying, being carefully not to ruin the ticket Sunset so thoughtfully got her.

The Crusaders were surprise to get presents from Sunset, which made them feel terrible since she got them before they made Anon-A-Miss. Applebloom opens her gift to discover a rainbow crusted pie with a jar of rainbows. there was a note attached.

Hi Applebloom your sister mentioned how much you liked sweets so after talking to Twilight I got you something you can't get in this world. its a Zap Apple pie with some Zap apple sauce, they're a rare type of apple that's magic and is colored like a rainbow. I hope you enjoy it."

Applebloom wipes away the tears as she looks at the jar of zap apple jam that Sunset got her, feeling both grateful and miserable.

Sweetie Belle opens her gift which was in a small box like Fluttershy's, she's surprised to find two tickets to the ice skating rink. There was an accompanied not which she read.

I hope You and Rarity enjoy skating together, I noticed how you wanted to spend the slumber party with us and especially your sister, but because it was for me I felt bad that you got left out. I hope this makes up for it

Sweetie Belle cried as she finished reading the letter.

Scootaloo was next to open her present which was new safety equipment for when she rides her scooter. "Sweet!"

"It'll be even sweeter with this." Rainbow Dash brings out a large box that she was hiding. "Your parents asked me to bring this to the party, I guess it was meant to go with Sunset's gift."

Scootaloo excitedly tore open the box to reveal a brand new scooter, she screamed in excitement.

Rainbow was happy for the young dare devil, she then looks to her gift which was wrapped in a Wonderbolts theme paper. she rips out the wrapping and her eyes widen upon seeing a brand new custom skateboard. It had her logo at the bottom surrounded by a beautiful open sky, Rainbow recognized this art style, it was Sunset's. Tears welled up in Rainbow's eyes as she instantly rose from the floor and bolted towards the door.

"Rainbow Dash were are you going?!" Scootaloo cried out.

Rainbow swung the front door open and shouted Sunset's name. "Sunset!" She looked around for the girl but didn't see her she looked around frantically and saw a car leaving in the distance.

"Sunset!" Rainbow shouted as she gave chase through the snow.

"Sunset!"

Rainbow screamed as she ran through the snow, the car getting further and further away.

"Sunse-" Rainbow was cut off as she tripped and landed on the snow, the car disappearing into the distance.
"Sunset." Rainbow mumbled in the snow as her body was rocked with sobs, she lifted her face to look at the empty road, snow gently falling around her.

"Sunset.....Sunset.....Sunset...….SUNSET!!" Rainbow screamed at the heavens as she cried in despair.

"Dashie!" Pinkie Pie shouted as she approached Rainbow Dash and kneeled down to her level. "Are you alright?'

"No." Dash utter as she looks at Pinkie Pie with deep sadness. "No I'm not." with that, Rainbow Dash hugs Pinkie Pie as she cries on her shoulder.

Pinkie could do nothing but hold her friend close as she cried.

Lua and Sunset made it to their home, the whole car ride Sunset was silent as she stared out of the window.

"Will you be alright?" Luna ask.

"Yeah, I just need a minute." Sunset replied.

Luna unlocked the front door and were greeted to a surprise.

"SURPRISE!"

Sunset was shocked to see not only her parents, but Gilda, Lightning Dust, Dumbbell, Flash, Trixie and even Snips and Snails.

"W-what is all this?" Sunset asked.

"It's your surprise welcome/Christmas party." Discord informed her.

"We wanted to properly welcome you home Sunset." Celestia tells her with a warm and loving smile. "Come see your room."

Sunset was guided up the stairs to a room that had an emblem of her cutie ark on the door, She looks to her family and friends who watch with excitement. She opens the door and is left in awe at her new room that is perfectly designed for her, she has her own gaming set up, a powerful looking pc, a bookshelf filled with her collection of books and an artist table for her to draw or paint. Tears welled up in her eyes as she turns to face everyone.

"I love it."

"We glad to hear that." Celestia says as Sunset rushes to her and gives her a tight hug which Celestia is more than happy to return.

"How about we get this party going, Trixie has the perfect gift she wants to give Sunset." Trixie boasted.

"Whatever you say Trixie." Sunset laughed as they all went back downstairs and true to Trixie's word, she had gotten Sunset a V-neck guitar in her colors as well as an outfit similar to the members of her band. Sunset had a very fun and warm welcome to her new home as she was surrounded by her friends and family. At long last she wasn't alone anymore.

Author's Notes:

I hope you all enjoyed the final installment of Unexpected Allies and stay tuned for my next Anon-A-Miss story. Thank you all for reading my first ever story on this site and sticking to the end, the very long end XD. I would also like to give a special thanks to KR Chrome who thanks to his help, I was able to get as far as I did with this story.