It really does bother me though that people are trying to gloss over/excuse what Starscream did to Novaspark and Skywarp though. He was abusive to them, and that was the point. That he treats them how he was treated, that’s why he was called out.
Please don’t pacify him for kicking his sisters and leaving them to die. That was a part of his development and redemption. The fact that they were willing to go to Megatron (or at least didn’t disagree with Twitch and debated it in the season) most likely means that Starscream has treated them badly for a very long time.
I talked about it here, but the fact that it was normalized for them means they’ve been used to it.
And Starscream mistreating and abusing people isn’t a new thing. Just like Megatron abusing Starscream is consistent with his character, Starscream abusing others is as well. I’ve written multiple essays about his relationship with Knockout in TFP as well, but it’s not a new thing.
Starscream acted abusive like Megatron! That was the point of the episode as well. Glossing over that, calling their relationship positive and dismissing the valid concerns about how he treated them is ignoring how abusive he’s being towards them.
And it bothers me largely because I tend to get uncomfortable because they’re women, and people are seemingly alright with it.
Starscream being abusive to the other Seekers and being called out was partly the point of the episode!
You can’t hold Megatron accountable for how badly he’s treated Starscream and ignore what Starscream has done to the other seekers in the same sentence.
“well he just kicked them” or “he was just upset”.
He physically harmed them and nearly let the people who rescued him die. That’s an issue. That’s abusive, and by their body language you can tell they’re used to it.
“It was just a little hit” Do you know how terrible that sounds? Megatron isn’t the only one on the path of redemption in Earthspark. Starscream is too. And part of that redemption is calling out his own abusive behaviors towards others.
It’s a huge disservice to the character to ignore that.
I’m just seeing so much of that, of people dismissing what they’ve been through. Novaspark and Skywarp have been brutalized through the entire show. And even when the narrative goes out of its way to say “Hey, Starscream is treating them JUST like Megatron treated him” people still excuse it. That’s not okay. And i’m not gonna shut up about this lol
Feat. Nova Spark, Prince Amadeus , Princess Star Chime
Amadeus’ coronation has Prince Novis thinking about his own impending crowning.
He can’t shake that something just feels...wrong.
Previous: “Pressure”,
~Destinyverse Archive~
Story Under The Cut!
Dresses and coats pass Prince Novis as dozens of ponies and creatures mingle and meander about Canterlot Castle's massive Great Hall. In the background, elegant ballroom music drifts about from a professional ensemble, passionately playing their instruments at one corner of the room. Louder than the music is a constant rumble of pleasant conversation and laughter from the celebration's guests. Novis himself, however, chooses to stand off to one side of the room, taking small, periodic sips from his cup of sparkling cider.
His foreleg bounces as he watches a newly crowned Prince Amadeus warmly welcome distant dignitaries at the center of the room. Flanking Amadeus' sides are his mother and younger sister - Princess Luna and Star Chime - both mares respectfully dipping their heads in greeting at each approaching visitor but being sure to give the stallion the figurative spotlight.
The coronation ceremony had come to a close a few hours ago. Once the afterparty had commenced, Novis found himself and his mother Twilight not only separated from the lunar family as ponies lined up to offer their congratulations, but the two of them were quickly surrounded by other attendees wishing to converse with Equestrian royalty.
It was only when his cheeks began to feel numb after an hour and a half of consistent smiling (a new record, for sure) that his merciful mother gently nudged him to walk around and mingle with everyone. He graciously and swiftly took the exit, and to be fair, he tried to carry out his royal duty of entertaining their subjects. But three near-identical, boastful conversations later, Novis' mind had become too fatigued to handle one sentence more.
'If one more person goes off about how they shook Amadeus' wing once, I'm going to lose my mind.'
Novis isn't sure what's worse; the mindless idle conversation, the citizens gushing over members of the royal family, or the noble ponies' and their not-so-subtle gloating as they take the opportunity of a grandiose event to discuss business propositions with one another. Each kind of exchange meets his ears in a rise and fall of voices from where he stands.
What Novis really wants - what he's waiting for - is one chance to just say hello to his best friend. They hadn't spoken in months due to the preparation and rehearsal the stallion's coronation required. And Amadeus had been too occupied pre-coronation for Novis to sneak in a word. Now Amadeus is preoccupied with aristocrats and leaders of other lands alike, and an opportunity to have a second of his time seems unlikely.
Novis' blue eyes refocus, noticing a group of strangers waving enthusiastically a few yards away. By instinct, a smile too bright to match his inner discomfort stretches across his muzzle and he waves back. Just smile and wave; the basics of royal etiquette.
Immediately his smile falls once the ponies have looked away, and he ducks his head to take one long sip, as if that'd be enough to avoid any more social contact. It's then that he feels a rumble in his stomach and he remembers he hasn't eaten since he and his mother arrived in Canterlot.
As he maps out a route to the nearest snack table, one with the widest berth around groups of partygoers, a familiar voice reaches his ears. Novis immediately has to fight that urge - the temptation to pretend you didn't just hear someone call out to you, but the voice in question is too close for them to be addressing anyone else so unless you want to feign hearing loss, ignoring the voice would be impractical-
"There's Prince Novis! We've been looking for you!" A young male unicorn - one of the many noble children he's been forced to converse with, so who-in-Equestria-knows what his name is because Novis certainly doesn't - and two unfamiliar unicorns approach.
'Oh my God, leave me alone.'
"Friend! It's good to see you!" Novis's fake grin and saccharine voice greet them. In Novis' mind, there's no way his forced friendliness is convincing. But people are too self-absorbed and eager to hear themselves talk, so he's proven wrong every time, watching the male unicorn proudly raise his head high.
"Good to see you too, friend!" The unicorn preens, tossing his head and his coiffed mane with it. Novis hears the two ponies accompanying the other stallion exchange impressed whispers and giggles, and even someone as oblivious as himself can read the situation and recognize a pony flexing his connections. Novis feels distaste form on his own tongue. "What a gorgeous coronation that was! Truly worthy of everyone's envy!" The unicorn leans in with a smirk. "Even your own~?"
'...what kind of arbitrary-ass question-"
"No, no, never!" Novis isn't sure whether to take it as a joke or a jab, so he settles on a weak laugh. "Amadeus is my bro- brother. My brother at heart. Why be jealous when I can be proud? He's come so far and worked hard for this."
"Does that mean your coronation will be even grander, Prince Novis?" One of the other unicorns pipes in curiously.
Novis barely conceals a flinch.
His voice gets stuck in his throat, his eyes darting between each pony's expectant face.
"Um-"
"Prince Novis," his savior speaks in the form of a butler, whose magic hovers a tray in front of them. They dip their head respectfully, tilting the tray in his direction and revealing miniature orange cakes with soft, cloud-like white icing. At the sight, Novis perks up. "As requested by your mother, we've arranged your favorite carrot cake treats. Please, enjoy yourself."
A sense of delight fills the young prince's chest, his belly feeling that much more hollow while breathing in the sweet scent of carrot and cream cheese icing. Just as he intends to push his magic forward and pick up a delicate treat, he doesn't miss the chuckle from the stallion next to him.
"I'd say to watch your figure, but I suppose you won't have to worry about your coronation for another few years."
Novis glances at his company, only to find their eyes boring into him. Despite wearing his formal attire he feels a shiver run across his pelt, causing hairs even under his dress wear to rise. The other unicorn just smiles back.
"Don't mind us, your highness. Go on! You can probably afford it."
That's when Novis catches the unconcealed movement of each of their eyes, darting between his face and his body, and his stomach churns in realization.
The sickening feeling crawls under his skin, making even tailored clothes feel tight around him, making him feel exposed enough to take a step back from the platter and say, unthinkingly;
"Thanks, but I'm not hungry."
That's enough to dismiss the butler, who bows one more time before wandering away. The three other young unicorns pick up their laughter and chatter, but Novis hears none of it. The quiet bitterness simmering at his core brings him to block out their noise, yet simultaneously, his royal training puts him on autopilot. Not that it takes much effort to converse with nobility so self-absorbed, they'll put others down in every subtle way they can just to bask in a sense of superiority. He just has to be pleasant; smile and nod, laugh when everyone else does, 'ooh' and 'aah' as the other party boasts-
Rinse and repeat. A robotic loop for...the rest of his life, Novis supposes. The aristocracy is a crowd Equestrian royalty has always strived to maintain a cordial relationship with, being collaborative partners and descendants of long-gone, highly esteemed wizards who once aided the crown.
'This is just the company I'll have to keep.'
With his mind lost to a dull buzz of trivial exchanges, Novis would have missed the movement in his periphery had he not noticed the shift in the murmurs around him, now light and filled with reverence. Halfway across the room, Amadeus gracefully strolls away from his family, approaching a table of refreshments on the sidelines. The male Alicorn smiles and dips his head to the groupings of ponies he passes, who eagerly bow and curtsy in return.
Novis sees his chance.
"Uuh- excuse me, you three, I just remembered there are important matters I need to address, good day-" Novis quickly echoes what he remembers reading from his mother's list of "Common Phrases for an Eloquent Exit", the riveting sequel to her initial gift, "Helpful Responses and Phrases for Pleasant Conversation." Novis doesn't bother waiting for an answer, throwing common courtesy to the wind in favor of making a beeline for his friend.
It takes a moment of weaving and excusing himself, but Novis' eyes stay locked on that starry mane of blues and purples. A tinge of nervousness settles in him at the idea of not reaching the older prince in time, but to his own relief, the purple stallion finds his hooves past the crowd.
Novis lets out a heavy sigh he's been holding in for far too long, and it's loud enough to catch the ear of the larger stallion. When Amadeus' lavender eyes fall on his smaller form, the other prince's whole expression brightens.
"Ammy!" Novis greets first, grinning toothily and closing the last few steps between them. Amadeus surprises him by placing a hoof over his own chest and bowing deeply.
"Novis, my friend! How wonderful it is to see you in good health!" He proclaims, standing up straight with a polite smile. Novis' face crinkles at the odd greeting, only for realization to hit him when he very much sees the mischievous twinkle in his friend's eye.
The noise Novis releases is a sophisticated mix between a scoff and a laugh. "Hey, hey, hey! Don't you use your formal voice on me!"
Amadeus' polite smile immediately splits into a cheeky grin. Horn glowing a similar shade to his eyes, the blue-splotched Alicorn levitates and tips his newly earned black and white crown at the purple stallion. "Mmmmm-m'lord~"
This time unrestrained laughter bursts out of Novis, and he shakes his head vigorously. Oh, he missed him. "My Gods you're so stupid, come here."
Amadeus is squeezed into a hug before another cursed phrase can leave his muzzle, and the silver-pelted prince chuckles low, surely aware of this. Novis feels the weight of one of Amadeus' shimmering wings return his hug (two wings would smother him, good thing his friend is thoughtful). Upon pulling away, Amadeus' face practically glows as much as his hair does in the night.
"I made it, Nov..."
"'Course you did." Novis' mouth quicks up in one corner. He lightly thumps the back of his hoof against the Alicorn's chest. "Like me or anyone ever doubted you, man. Congrats."
"Thank you..." Amadeus sighs out. Novis can see a few tired lines under his friend's eyes, but he also sees relief in his relaxed features. A weight has been lifted; irrational fears and insecurities Novis knows the stallion has been holding onto, ever since...
'Your dad would be proud', he doesn't say. Novis can imagine the dozens of times Amadeus has to have heard that exact phrase within the hour alone. But meeting his friend's gaze, Novis sees warmth emanate from Amadeus', and the young stallion knows the sentiment is understood.
"Sooo..." Novis rocks back and forth on his hooves, the awkward and mushy silence beginning to make him antsy. "What was your coronated name again? 'Amadeus Sirius Altair'?" He exaggerates a thoughtful hum. "Pretty cool, but uh....maybe leave some star names fooor, I dunno, Star Chime?"
Amadeus laughs heartily, easily breaking away from the heavy atmosphere. "Sister has plenty to choose from. And she has as many years as you do to choose her new name. You're both up next, after all."
It happens again.
Like a sack of rocks being forced down his throat to weigh in his chest cavity, Novis feels like he's physically recoiling away from the topic despite standing completely still. The sheer agitation catches even him off guard.
'It's just a coronation. You get through a big fancy ceremony, you're given a gaudy crown, then it's over. You move on with your life.'
...he knows it's not that simple.
"That reminds me!" Novis puts every shred of energy into a completely natural topic change. "Now that your coronation is over, we should have a game night this week! It'll be a celebration between us! It's been WAY too long."
Novis' hopeful smile falters upon hearing a nervous laugh tumble out of the Alicorn. "Oh yeah...sorry Nov, I wish I could, but it sounds like I'm going to be busier than ever now that I'm crowned. Mother informed me that there'll be responsibilities I'll be officially taking over, full-time. But!" Amadeus perks up. "But once things settle down in a few months' time, I can probably schedule something in!"
A few months.
Novis isn't sure what shifts in his own expression, but whatever it is, Amadeus catches it. The older prince's eyes soften, and he offers an assuring smile. Leaning down, Amadeus nudges the top of Novis' head with his nose.
"Hey, it won't always be like this, Nova. Don't worry. We'll make time, I promise."
"Yeah..." he returns in a weak attempt to agree. Novis tries to find the faintest bit of assurance in his friend's words, but the unease in his chest weighs heavier.
"Oh, mother is waving me back over. I suppose I have more leaders to meet." Amadeus chuckles softly. Before Novis can look up, a single glimmering feather gently flicks his nose, startling him. The offended look he shoots the other stallion earns him a delighted laugh. Novis' suppressed smile betrays his feigned annoyance. But boy, Amadeus is lucky they're in public. It's like he forgets that lightning magic and pretty, manicured galaxy manes don't exactly go well together-
"Cheer up, okay? We'll go all out and stay up as long as we want the next time we get together. And then you can tell me about all the progress you've made on your game! Believe me, I'm looking forward to it!"
Right.
His game.
Novis presses his mouth into a tight line, but he manages a smile and a small salute when Amadeus glances back at him. "Yeah, yeah. Go get'em, prince."
Amadeus reciprocates with a playful salute of his wing before striding back in the direction of his family and a cluster of attendees. With his back turned, Novis feels his smile vanish.
'Right...I'm next', he thinks, in a room full of carefree partygoers all gathered to celebrate the inauguration of their beloved lunar prince. A coronation is a joyous occasion, for the royal family and their subjects alike. Novis tries to imagine his own.
The weight in his chest remains.
--------------------------------
'Where did she go?'
Novis travels down another hallway, nearly identical to the one before it. Were it not for the years he spent exploring the castle during his and his mother's frequent visits, Amadeus acting as his tour guide, he would have absolutely gotten lost in the maze that is Canterlot Castle. Thankfully, he has a decent map of the layout in his head.
It's been an hour since Amadeus' afterparty ended, and Novis was surprised by how fast everyone had scattered. One minute his mother and Princess Celestia were conversing in one corner of the Great Hall, and the next, they were both gone. His mother most likely assumed he would have rather stayed behind to see his "friends" off, as opposed to the reality of him ducking behind the snack tables to sneak his way behind the crowd with the precision of someone who's played one too many stealth games.
Novis originally opted to retire to his guestroom for the night. But the discomfort he'd felt during the party had failed to leave him.
He can't shake it. He can't pull his mind away from the reminder that in three years' time, he'll be faced with the finality that is his crowning. And the fact that this is his knee-jerk reaction to the mere thought has made it obvious that something is very wrong.
He knows he won't be able to rest, not until he tries talking it out with her. And the only place his mother and Celestia would head off to would be...
Beyond him to his left, Novis sees the large, open doors of the pillared corridor that leads straight to the throne room. When he turns to walk through the colossal doorway, he expects his eyes to lock onto the set of double doors on the far end of the hall. Instead, his deep blue orbs flicker toward a figure, standing off to the side.
Princess Twilight Sparkle, framed by the towering windows and panels of stained glass lining both walls of the corridor, is gazing up towards one of the artistic glass panels. The light beyond it shines through, reflecting colors off of her tranquil face. Novis approaches wordlessly. If he's honest, he rarely pays any mind to the stained glass windows in this hallway, always shrugging them off as relics portraying events from far in the past. But as he slows to a stop beside his mother, the young stallion tilts his head back, eyes wide as he fully takes in the regal majesty that is his mother's stained glass portrait. The glowing, immortalized image of his mother on her coronation day, powerful wings outstretched, smiles elegantly back at him.
"Amadeus will have his own panel built tomorrow. It'll be constructed next to Lumina's."
Novis turns towards the sound of his mother's voice, now noticing that she's smiling warmly at him. He peeks past her and further down the corridor. Where there once was a panel that depicted the defeat of Lord Discord by the royal sisters now resided a more promising display; Princess Lumina in all her Celestia-like grace, with brilliant gold and orange glass illuminating the space around her half-Alicorn, half-Draconequus form.
"And if I'm right," Twilight continues, a tinge of excitement in her voice. Her wing wraps around him and pulls him into her side. She gestures her hoof towards one of the normal windows next to her glass portrait. "Celestia plans on assembling yours right beside mine!"
"A-ah..." he struggles out. "That's...great, mom."
His mother's wing squeezes his side at the same time she grins down at him. "I'm beyond proud of Amadeus. But I have to admit, today has made it impossible to stop thinking about your coronation!"
"S-same here." A painfully stilted laugh shakes his shoulders. "Actually, um, mom...that's what I came here to ask about, if-"
Novis cuts himself off, because Twilight's eyes practically shine at the prospect of questions. She pulls her wing back and straightens her posture, taking on the stance of a wise, experienced teacher.
"Ask away, Novie~" she answers with an almost sing-song cadence. A smile threatens to tug at his muzzle. He takes in a deep breath instead.
"Well...today it's come to my attention that I'll most likely have less time to myself once my coronation has passed. There's..." He pauses because no way in Tartarus will he suggest to the Friendship Princess that the Friendship Prince has been spending his spare time and resources developing a video game. As if just bringing up the subject to his "friends" has ever ended positively. He's had quite enough of being subtly ridiculed. "...there's a project I'm trying to work on- not an invention, just for fun. It's a lot of meticulous work and I'm honestly worried I won't have time in the future to give any projects like it the attention they need. Am I wrong?"
Law amendments, passing legislation, working with representatives and leaders; meetings, paperwork, hosting festivities, bringing ponies together and spreading the values of friendship; a long-winded list that barely scrapes the iceberg of duties Novis knows will be completely his one day. Novis' studies on those subjects and the times he's shadowed his mother alone have left him with only small windows of time to himself. And half of that free time is usually spent on everyone's long-awaited magi-tech research. It's not unlike the free time his mother sets aside to aid Sunset Shimmer in the mare's magi-tech pursuits.
'Maybe I'm overthinking this...once studying is out of the picture, I'll have more time than I'm imagining to-'
"You're right that you'll have less time than you do now! You'll have plenty of fun work to occupy you, but that's the joy of making a schedule!" Twilight gushes, and oh, his mother speaks that single word like it's a holy phrase. "Once all of your duties for the day are organized nice and neat, you'll find yourself with at least an hour of downtime here and there, for any extra activities you want to fit in! Since your activities are just fun side projects, the work will be gradual, sure, but it'll simply be a matter of patience at that point."
Oh...
Novis really thought getting a straight answer would ease his gnawing anxiety. Instead, it feels more like his worst fears have been realized.
An hour "here and there" won't be enough. The feeling in his chest shouts this at him, at her. It's not enough time to dedicate his...his attention and passion to his work.
He doesn't want to just "fit it in", like a trivial hobby he'll drop the moment he's bored. He...
"Is something wrong, Novie?"
He's been quiet too long, he realizes. Twilight's looking at him, puzzled.
"...I don't know, I've been feeling kind of..."
Out of my mind. Restless.
Terrified.
"...nervous. Thinking about my coronation. I-it just feels like a lot, I guess." Novis bites his lip. "Almost like I'm...panicking inside."
His mind feels scattered. He thinks back to earlier in the day; the forced socializations, the hollow friendships, his fake laughter and royal courtesies. Everything he's played along with until now...everything that'll be a permanent part of his life once he takes to the throne-
And now he knows that the singular passion that gave him an escape will barely have a place anymore.
Twilight's awkward chuckle snaps him out of his spiraling thoughts. "Oh yeah, you...might have gotten that from me. I used to panic ALL the time."
Novis pauses, taking a solid moment to eye his mother. "...you still kind of do."
"Alright, you got me there. But my point is that I developed a far better grasp on it once I settled into my role! You're quick to adapt, Novie. It'll get easier for you too, I'm sure. I can even teach you the breathing techniques I use to calm down-"
Something crosses Twilight's face, as if she's been reminded of something. That eager shine returns to her violet eyes. "But fiiirst...I want to share something with you. I was planning on waiting a year or two, but maybe this will be an exciting source of encouragement!"
A spark of magenta magic manifests a black velvet box between them. Her horn alight with energy, his mother wastes no time in presenting it to him before opening its lid slowly.
Inside is a golden crown.
It's covered in intricate carvings and adorned with evenly spaced blue gemstones. His family's six-pointed star sits neatly at the front, carved out of a red jewel that glimmers under the light of the stained glass.
Novis feels an icy wave overtake his entire body.
"May I?" His mother asks. He numbly nods, despite himself. He feels the metal settle on his hair, and when the Alicorn before him stands back to take him in, her expression is soft and prideful. A small mirror sparks into existence, blocking out the sight of her and replacing it with his reflection.
He sees himself for the first time that day and sees creases under his wide eyes. The sight of that crown accompanying his face brings back the churning in his stomach.
"A perfect fit." His mother declares. "I decided to have this custom ordered early! Rarity helped with the design. She used the highest quality gemstones she could find."
She then playfully curtsies, dipping her head as an exaggerated fancy accent takes over her voice. "I'd say you look quite dashing, Prince Novis Noctis Spark."
-the name he settled on for his coronation.
Twilight lifts her head up to look at him, her expression expectant and playful. Novis tenses, his eyes flashing between her and his reflection. She's trying to get him to laugh. She's expecting a reaction.
"It's...good." The words come out strangled, but clear enough. He tries to smile. The mirror reveals a grimace. "It's like a...new me."
The mirror disappears in another spark of magenta magic. His mother's face is now clearer to him, and there, he sees a worried frown.
The weight of the crown leaves his head, and he watches her carefully angle it back into its box. A soft sigh leaves her as she teleports it away, back to her room or whatever pocket dimension her powerful magic pulls items from.
"Oh Novie..." she murmurs, catching him off guard. The tips of her feathers reach out and smooth back his hair. Novis meets her sympathetic gaze, feeling more vulnerable than ever before. A small sliver of hope manifests in him. Maybe his mother understands his fears better than he does-
His hopes are dashed.
"A coronation is a big change. You might feel like you're not ready for something that feels bigger than you. I've been there." Her feathers move to his cheek, holding his face there. "But I promise you, Novis; fulfilling your destiny is the most freeing experience. Soon you'll realize that there was never anything to be nervous about in the first place. You're more capable than you realize. You'll see."
The gentle caress of her feathers ends at his forehead. She shoots him one last, loving smile. "Hey. Celestia told me dinner would be ready soon. We should get going; I'll teach you those breathing techniques after."
Novis nods, because he isn't sure what else to do. With that, Twilight turns towards the archway exit of the hall, her regal white and blue gown flowing out behind her as she strides away. While he turns to follow, the young prince pauses in place. With a tilt of his head, Novis looks up one last time at the immense stained glass portrait. Celestia's fading sunlight illuminates her faithful student's panel from behind. The radiant purple and pink hues of his mother, in turn, fall on him in streams of colored light.
His shadow hides behind him.
A sharp pang hits his chest, and his ears pull back as his mother's words return to him.
Fulfilling your destiny is freeing.
Novis wonders, then, why he feels trapped.
________________________________________
Twi be out here like "It worked out for me, so it'll work out for you!"
She's trying, guys.
A bit of lore I ended up leaving out in this chapter, because it interrupted the flow: the "coronated name" is a tradition that started with the oldest of the royal children, Fleurence Valentina Heart of the Crystal Empire (AKA Flurry Heart). It continued onto Lumina Alice Solae, and then Amadeus Sirius Altair. As mentioned in his bio, the "Noctis" in the name Nova picked out is a nod to his soul brother and lunar prince, Amadeus. The tradition was intended to help each royal heir fully embody their ascension to the throne.
I'm so happy with this art piece. Twilight's stained glass window from the MLP movie is one of my favorite MLP visuals of all time (I have a poster of the full version that includes her friends on my wall~), so getting to recreate it was such an honor. Also, you may notice that this illustration is an absolute parallel of a certain back shot of Twilight from the movie~ It was heavily referenced when making the background!
But yes, this chapter is more of a transitional one, meant to fully establish Nova's inner conflict. ; w ; Very important nonetheless.
((Note: This is Part 2 of 2 of a crossover story with a friend of mine's character that delves into a what if they were in the I Dream of Twilight Sparkle universe. Here is their twitter (However, must of course warn that you will find NSFW art here)
Chronologically, this falls 5 years after the defeat of Cozy, Tirek, and Chrysalis. And also 5 years before Earnest Empathetic Change begins.
Just like the story where Nova Spark met up with Geniequestria Starlight, this serves as a B-canon in that it's canon if you want it to be. But won't likely effect stuff outside this story. We brainstormed and wrote this together, while my friend did all the supporting art for this))
Sunset would be able to hear Nova and Fury gasp at their new appearance.
Nova: (W-woah! We got more traits than expected! I think we look pretty good! And even though neither Fury or I am in control… I feel more powerful than ever! Look, even our cutie mark changed, remarkable! This is less assimilation and more of a fusion!)
The senses that were now returned to Sunset for the first time in years, combined with their newfound magical power. It was as if they were a brand new pony!
Nova: (Hahaha! We're so happy for you, Sunset! I told you it was possible to make this work!)
Nova beamed
Nova: (Even… if I was on the verge of almost giving up. We pulled through in the end! Hah, place your bets, who will freak out first when they see us. Twilight or Starlight? My bet's on Twilight considering Starlight hasn't met us yet.)
Sunset didn't have much reason to doubt Nova as she mentioned it in their discussion within the mind. But to actually feel blood coursing through her veins again, real skin and flesh. It felt odd after being a spirit for so long. But it nonetheless felt great. There was one thing she had to do now...
Sunset walked on over to the section covering her death. Looked at the figures of her murderers, and conjured a five fingered hand. Flipping the bird at them.
Sunset: HA! Take that, you good for nothing flankholes! I'm back! Hahahahaha!
She knew it wasn't really them, and she thanks goodness it isn't. But it was satisfying nonetheless
Both Nova and Fury were somewhat taken aback by Sunset's first action in their body, cursing out her murderers. But considering they got to feel her emotions and pain not too long ago, this was understandable.
Fury: (Ha! You tell em! You can now come back and they NEVER will! Oh and Nova, I'm jumping in on that bet, Starlight will freak out first. I mean she'll actually get to hug her mom for the first time even if it's a different body. I think that holds more precedence.)
Sunset: (A bit of a correction there, Fury. Starlight was able to hug me as a spirit, but our first actual hug in real bodies will certainly be... something special.)
Fury chuckled
Fury: (Ah I see, well my point still stands though!)
Sunset herself begins to get a feel for the power. She shivers with the magic coursing through her body.
Sunset: Wow... how strong are we now...? I've felt what it's like to have power... but I could almost swear this dwarfs even my own power in my prime... You don't think... that this fusion made us a... half-spirit like Twilight. Not exactly a genie since the 'vessel' is you Nova, but still some of the same abilities. If it's true, we might have the ability to shift our backside into a ghostly tail and fly like that. Do you girls want to give that a try to test it out?
And if that works... even wishes might be on the table!
Sunset does raise a good question about their power. It doesn't just feel like one was added to the other, rather it felt like it had multiplied! So it's no wonder why Nova had struggled to hold it in. Nova paces around in their mind to think.
Nova: (I...suppose the process is far more in depth than we could have realized. This is new ground for all of us. I hadn't even thought we'd have magical power like this. But just look at our mane for example, it moves like Celestia or Luna's does! If we're half spirit in the technical sense... )
A wide grin comes across her face as Sunset is also putting things together.
Nova: (It's a shame we don't get the attire but being an equivalent to a genie!? Hahaha! With spiritual power and potentially wish granting abilities!?! You think either of us are going to say no to some test runs?! Fury, you ready to show the world what we're capable of?)
Fury gives as big of a grin
Fury: (Are you kidding? I'm more than ready, though just remember, it's ultimately up to Sunset as she's the one in control. But you can deal with that, can't you?)
She asks in a teasing tone
Nova grumbles, knowing that the lack of control does usually bother her.
Nova: (Hmph! I-I'll be fine! We can still feel all the power from within here so it's fine, especially with Sunset at the helm! I'm sure we uh… we'd be quite reckless with it. Though I won't lie, I do want to know what our maximum power is right now, this just feels incredible! Nothing like what we've ever felt before!)
Sunset: If this works, I'll only do a quick fly through the museum. Don't want to freak out all of Sire's Hollow with a random pony they might not even recognize that it's me and/or Nova right away. But alright, let's try this...
Sunset takes a deep breath focusing some magic, something of a spiritual aura seems to surround them as they get to use the magic of a spirit for the first time. Sunset levitates off the ground, and mid-air she places her hindlegs parallel to each other.. She then gently moves them up and down, simulating a bit of a wave, soon her tail and the end of her hooves give way, starting to merge and stretch. Slowly moving up until it stops at just below their hips. A relaxing feeling washed over all three of them inside as they use their magic to defy gravity.
Sunset: Well, would you look at that! It worked!
Now... let's get going!
Sunset flies around the museum exhibits. Her life flashing before her eyes... in a literal sense. As she circles pass her life's memorabilia over and over again.
Nova: That sounds reasonable, and there's more than enough space for a test flight.
Both Nova and Fury seem excited to see if this will work, but what they didn't expect was that the magic Sunset was channeling would affect them within the mindscape! They gained an aura around them as well as Sunset used their magic. A blue one for Nova and a red one for Fury, they too began to levitate as the magic coursed through their body!
Nova: (W-woah! Fury, we're flying!! And uh oooh, this actually doesn't feel too bad! Is this what it's like to be a spirit? The lack of hindlegs takes a moment to get used to but… I don't hate it!)
Like Sunset was doing on the outside, Nova and Fury began to fly around inside their head.
Fury: (This is insane! I feel lighter than ever and yet so relaxed too. Look at our auras!)
Fury said in an amazed tone
Fury: (Sunset, this is incredible, our body is holding up just fine too, yeah? Hey see if we can go through walls like you did!]
Going past all of the exhibits once more, a thought popped into Nova's head
Nova: (Hey, you think with the discoveries we make in the next few days, we'll have to add a new section to your museum? I mean these findings are going to be massive for all of Equestria! If this is what's happening to us, we may have just stumbled onto how ponies can use spirit magic for themselves!!)
Sunset stops herself to think about what Nova said.
Sunset: That seems like something we'd have to be careful with however. We can't just let EVERYPONY get a spirit inside them. They'd have to be trustworthy, on nearly the same level of making sure they'd be responsible like how genies of Saddle Arabia in the past vetted ponies that would use their power responsibly.
And even besides that, Dragon Tears are still rare. It's not even a 100% guarantee that a dragon who dies will drop one.
That said, I suppose I wouldn't mind an eventual ‘Sunset returns!’ section eventually.
Nova: (Hmm… that's actually a fair point, if everypony had unfiltered access it could lead to the rise of a more powerful villain and we don't need any more of those. But it's still something worth looking into. From what I've been told about the other elements of harmony bearers for example. I believe the element of Honesty, Applejack, would find this to be beneficial. But as much as I don't want to admit it. We'd probably need to run this by Twilight to prevent spirit magic from getting into the wrong hooves. And also make sure with the summoned spirits that it's not a permanent revival either. I don't think there are many other ponies like us either that understand their own heads and mindspaces. It could get sticky fast....)
She sounds disappointed at first but perks up moments later
Nova: (But just imagine the possibilities!! And we're going to see her right now anyway so I guess we'll know how she feels soon enough.)
As Nova suggests going through walls, Sunset remembered that she could touch the wall earlier when she was first trying out her new live body. She knows she'll probably crash if she flew into as she is now. Sunset's happy to be alive in some capacity but she's not looking forward to feeling pain again. And she should also be careful because this isn't her own body. However, with the power coursing through their veins. She thinks of another way. She charges her horn, enveloping herself as her opaqueness fades into transparency. THAT'S when she tries to go through a wall. And it works perfectly.
Sunset: It takes a bit of 'Going Ghost' first but we certainly can!
Nova and Fury internally brace for an impact, they do trust Sunset, but given that she's still getting used to a body and the fact that they weren't sure if this would work, they wanted to be careful. But they look in awe as Sunset cast a spell allowing them to phase through easily
Fury: (Watching Sunset in action like this it's incredible. I didn't even know such a spell existed. Look at that, you're still able to teach us new tricks and with our own body too!)
Nova: (I KNOW RIGHT?! Fury, we need to be sure to take note of all these spells! It doesn't matter if we will or won't be able to cast them ourselves when we separate but it's something to work towards! Hehehe actually… you wanna give the receptionist one more jolt before we head out, Sunset?)
Sunset giggles about spooking the receptionist again.
Sunset: As fun as that would be, I think I'll be nice and spare her another scare. It might even be worse since she might not even recognize us now. She's willing to forgive me... most of the time... but not if she doesn't recognize that I'm half of what's scaring her.
Sunset also flies back down onto the ground. Reverting the ghostly tail back to her and Nova's tail and hindlegs. Satisfied enough with that test.
Nova and Fury sigh, but Sunset is right. The receptionist didn't seem too fond of them already so to scare them now that they're unrecognizable seems like a poor choice. When Sunset undoes the magic that allowed her to fly, both Nova and Fury find themselves back to normal as well.
Nova: (Huh, that's interesting we've got our legs back. Fury, you're used to being in here more than I am. Is this normally what happens to you when I take on a new form?)
Fury: (Kind of? Honestly, with Sunset in charge it feels different. Not bad, but just different.)
Sunset: Say I wonder when Twilight's coming ba-
As if on cue, a portal opens up not far from where Sunset was standing. Twilight has her eyes closed with a smile.
Twilight: I'm back Nova and Sunset! I checked on Spike and he's holding up pretty well, I'm so proud of my boy! What have you two be... en... up... to....?
She opened her eyes as the end of her sentence trailed off. Immediately, seeing not two ponies. But just one, her eyes widen as she can clearly tell there's both Sunset and Nova traits... And her right eye twitches....
Sunset: (Oh boy... incoming Twilighting!)
When Twilight pops back into the museum, Nova can't help but cheer that she's seemingly won her little bet.
Nova: (HAH I CALLED IT! YES! I love it when I'm right! She might try to undo this by the way, but....actually we're kind of on an even playing field with her now aren't we? Hehehehehe!! That look on her face, oh I will not be forgetting it any time soon! Oohh ooh Sunset, you should try acting like me, go along with the bit! I haven't told Twilight anything about this experiment so she probably thinks I'm still in charge. Just make sure to call her by her last name to be convincing!)
Fury rolls her eyes, but she can't help but laugh along with Nova as well
Fury: (Alright alright, you win but who knows, Starlight could come in any second and we get the student teacher freakout!)
Twilight: WHAT THE ACTUAL HAY?! Nova! Did you just... ABSORB Sunset?!
As much as Nova was enjoying seeing Twilight's reaction. Sunset wasn't so sure it'd be a great idea, especially since Twilight could probably split them back potentially within seconds.
Sunset: (No, Nova. If she thinks I'm you. She may split us before we have a second to react. I need to calm her down, say the truth, and say that you gave me control. Do you really want to have to perform that spell again so soon?)
Before Nova can even respond, Sunset gets straight to making sure Twilight doesn't act too quickly.
Sunset: Hold up, Twilight. We can explain! I'm in control right now, and Nova willingly let me do so...
Twilight just about had her horn charging, but as she hears Sunset's voice only. She drops it.
Twilight: Huh?! Really...?
Nova: (N-no… I don't think I'm even capable of doing it again so soon... you've got a good point…)
She pouted like a filly who was just told that she couldn't have any dessert.
Fury patted Nova's back in understanding
Fury: (It's a good thing we've got somepony responsible in charge for a change! Though to be fair… I would've pulled the same stunt heh. But this is better than getting blasted and having the magic ripped from us… which I'm sure would hurt like we couldn't even possibly imagine.)
Nova: (If we're telling her the truth anyway, tell her that this was something I was looking into. I knew she might get like this had I told her sooner so I kept it secret until I actually attempted it with you. In fact, it might be wise to tell her everything we just experienced here. The magical upgrade, the exchange of memories, thoughts and emotions. All of it. I know we'll get a lecture later but I think even Twilight will come to understand why we did what we did. And you can reassure her that I had no ill intent when doing this!)
Sunset: Twilight, I understand this seems quite sudden. But I promise some actual good can come from this, and Nova didn't do this for selfish reasons. Plus, you should know right away that this is not permanent. She didn't tell you that she could do this because she knew you wouldn't have allowed it. At least... not before hearing my perspective...
Twilight, you know I died very young. Too young for most ponies' sensibilities to understand. The heartbreak I had ever since I had to leave Firelight all alone to take care of a newborn baby all by himself... he didn't even know I died until I was summoned! He could have thought I literally ABANDONED him! You have no idea how lucky I am that he kept the faith, even after decades of nopony knowing my fate...
There was so much I wanted to do with my life still, and I had to face the music that it was never going to be... all because I got cocky and thought I could handle Cozy's family by myself... If I had gotten a forewarning about their intentions. I might have gotten backup guards or even let Princess Celestia accompany me, and I would most likely have lived up to this day. And Starlight would have never gone down the path she did when you fought her.
Obviously, me being in Nova's body won't give me what I've already missed. I'll never get to experience raising Starlight to adulthood, I'll never get to experience the joys of coming back home to my daughter's smiling face when she was only a filly. And I wasn't there to help tell her right from wrong and work together with Firelight to assure Starlight was set for a better future.
I owe you so much for filling in the void when you made her your student the first time around. You gave her what she needed most, and that's why you're the perfect older sister figure for her. You stepped in when I tragically couldn't.
While Spirit Summoning has helped rectify much of this. There are still... limitations to it. I can hug my daughter even as a spirit, but I cannot physically do much else. The only games I can play with her are board games where she or somepony else moves the pieces for me. I can't use magic as a spirit other than to fly through the air. As any other use of my spiritual power is only useful for the soul shield. Nova's spell allows me to live again, even for a short time. It will never be for longer than 3 days, and I won't be neglecting my eternal mission up in the soul shield.
And when I was merged into Nova's mind. We saw each other's memories... she saw some of the awful things I've seen and felt what it was like to die violently from a first person perspective. And I... saw how horrible her childhood was. And how I was one of the few bright spots in her young life. In a way... I think she needs me as much as I want to feel alive again even for just a short amount of time. She herself needs to know the love of a good mother... and I think I can give her that if you can give me the chance.
I promise I'll keep her in control, she'll listen to me. This was a mutual agreement too, she did not trick me and started absorbing me into her horn. I know you have some experience with being tricked, given Malakhar did that to genify you. This isn't that situation, imagine if Malakhar had been more straight with you. Maybe even brought up the fact how much it'd benefit you and Spike's relationship. That way Malakhar got to fulfill his grandfather's death wish, and you and Spike weigh your options before the genification and he even warns you that you'd be magically brought within the vessel. If you can think of this situation like that, you should fully understand what that means for the both of us.
Nova: (That's exactly why I wanted to do this in the first place. I don't think anypony would ever take this kind of risk, but if anypony deserved a second chance, it's you, Sunset. Can you tell Twilight… that I am sorry for not telling her. But I just wanted to help in my own way.)
Fury: (Sure, it could be seen as some bits of our ego shining through as well, but we just can't help it when we get inspired heh.)
The mention of them needing a true sense of motherly love stuns them as they didn't expect Sunset to even offer such a thing. The two tatzls stammer in response.
Nova: (H-hey I'm not… not a foal anymore… b-but… I mean uh this w-was just for you! We weren't intending to dump our issues onto you…)
Fury: (A-and I know I made a bit of a joke in calling you mom earlier... But you're really ok with that...?)
Both of their faces went completely red, it was a good thing only Sunset could see them right now. This praise for her spell, combined with a want to help them as much as she is already helping her. The two look at each other, still in a state of disbelief.
Nova: (I'm not going to turn her away either…)
Fury: (To be fair she saw our whole lives so… this is what we wanted. We just… didn't expect it to happen… heh…)
Twilight stands there, fully paying attention to Sunset’s words. She’s right about all of this, Sunset finally getting her chance to walk Equestria in a flesh and blood body, even noting how Sunset’s voice no longer echoed, Sunset able to use magic again, and so much more. She lowers head as she thinks it over. Raising her head back up with a smile.
Twilight: I… guess this is ok then… you are correct… if Malakhar had been much less misleading and let me and Spike weigh the options ourselves beforehand. Maybe we would have at least given it a shot, and the decision to stay a genie would have had much more time to think it through. I don’t know if I’m still a genie in that hypothetical situation, but it would have been more mutually beneficial. If that’s how you both see it, then I fully understand
Twilight puts a hoof on… she realizes she doesn’t even know what to call them!
Twilight: So…. wait… what do we even call you right now? Sunova? Sunspark? Nova Shimmer? Shimmerspark? Shiva?
Both mares were thankful to have Sunset in their corner right now. But what Twilight said did pose an interesting question for the trio. Would they need a new name?
Nova: (I hadn't even thought about it. We technically are a fusion right now but… we're all still individuals? Some of these names Sparkle came up with are pretty good, I've gotta save them for later.)
She puts a hoof to her chin, trying to think of something that could work for the three of them.
Nova: (I don't think a new name is a bad idea, it's not like we currently look like ourselves or Sunset. I do like Supernova though…)
Fury rolls her eyes
Fury: (No, we're not going with that miss ego. I think something that reflects us and Sunset would work
What about... Sparkling Dawn? Radiant… no NO, nothing with that name. Uh, I kinda like Sunspark actually. But what do you think, Sunset? rock a new name in this form? or do we stick with what we've got cause I don't think Nova and I mind either way.)
Nova: (Sunspark does work for me too. Though I'm still gonna be partial to Supernova, given these powers! Novashine maybe? Eeeeh, we're always bad with naming conventions. This was so much easier when choosing our experiment names!)
Sunset: (Yeah... sorry, Nova. Supernova will only end up getting into your head... If you two are fine with Sunspark though. We can go by that for now, a name is just a name. If something better comes up later we can always choose that.
...Oh, and yes Fury. If you and Nova would accept me, I'd gladly be a foster mother for the both of you.)
Twilight, we'll go by one of your name suggestions of Sunspark for now.
Twilight nods, proceeding to reach her hoof to put it on Sunspark's shoulder
Twilight: Welcome back to the world of the living, Sunset...
And Nova... if you can hear me from out here... while I'm still a bit upset that you didn't tell me about this... I appreciate what you're doing. Sunset's correct that I probably wouldn't have considered it from her point-of-view. This soul magic thing is all new magic for scientifically inclined ponies like us, we're still discovering new things about it almost every year. So pardon me if I might have been worried if there would be potential consequences. But this seems to be working out for the best. If there's any trouble the both of you get into though, please try to contact me immediately. I will do whatever is necessary to help. You got that?
Nova: (I suppose I'll have to save the 'Supernova' name for something else in the future… Sunspark is more than acceptable for the time being.)
Nova lets out an exaggerated sigh. She knew full well that it probably would be shot down. Her expression changes immediately when Sunset agrees to be a foster mother in a sense to them. Both she and Fury hold each other, looking like they might cry again but hold it together.
Nova: (I-if you seriously mean that I...I...I...um... I hope it won't be too awkward if I c-call you m-m-m… mom or something! Or maybe I can just keep calling you Sunset or Ms. Shimmer or… Mmph!?)
Fury covers Nova's mouth with a hoof
Fury: (What she's trying to say is that we'd be more than happy to have you as our… our… m-mom... damn, I'm doing it too, heh… we're just not the best with handling emotions like this. Right Nova?)
Nova nods meekly before wiping a tear of joy from her eye.
Nova: (We'll do our best to not let you down, that's a promise. And do tell Twilight that we're fully prepared to abort this whole thing if we feel any hint of danger. The last thing we want is for any harm to come to you. And tell her once this is all done I'll give her a full briefing on our findings as well as potential use for this spell with other spirits. I think it'll give her something to look forward to.)
Sunset: Nova says she'll release me if any complications come up. She also hopes that it'll provide an interesting report as Equestria slowly learns more and more about the nature of soul magic.
Twilight smiles
Twilight: That's good, then. But wow! I can't wait til' Starlight learns of th-
Once again as if on cue, Starlight arrives looking for her mother
Starlight: Mom? Are you in here? Dad said you and Twilight were giving a friend of hers a tour and I thought I'd... HUUUUUUUUUUH?!
Starlight stops herself, her mouth drops about as low as it can go. as she sees what clearly seems to be traits of her mother... attached to a pony that Starlight's only been acquainted with.
Sunset, still in full control of Sunspark grins awkwardly, putting a hoof behind her head with a sweatdrop. And she waves with the other hoof
Sunset: Er.... hi, honey?
Starlight stands still, one eye twitches much like Twilight did earlier...
And releases a piercing scream that echoes through the museum.
Even within the confines of a mental space, Nova and Fury cover their ears from Starlight's scream. Fury does take this as an opportunity to gloat though.
Fury: (See? Told you we'd get the double freakout! Like teacher, like student! Though considering how fast Twilight was ready to blast us, maaaaaybe we should put up a shield now? We don't know your daughter too well but from what Twilight has told us, she's more quick to blast a perceived threat. Honestly, it makes me think we might get along pretty well!)
Nova: (Yeah but with her mother now a physical part of us, we might be on some thin ice for a bit. I wonder how many freakouts we'll be seeing today? You think Firelight is going to do the same?)
She chuckles
Nova: (But Fury's got a point, I really don't want to get blasted… though given our power would it really harm us… eeeh let's not do a stress test in here. I already promised the receptionist that I wouldn't do anything to the other exhibits. I'm not going to ask you to pretend to be me this time, let's just explain things again.)
At least Nova and Fury were learning their lesson this time around.
Sunset: (It's a good thing Stellar spared no expense for the extra-strength glass! Starlight might have broken all the glass in the exhibits closest to us!)
Nova wiped her forehead, quite glad she wouldn't be needing to pay for any repairs.
It takes some time, and some reassurances from both her mother and Twilight that everything will be just fine.
Starlight: Alright.... so if you can let me go process what you've just told me... Nova had some spell related to the Dragon's Tear, She asked my mom if she'd be willing to try it, she waited for an opportunity where Twilight wasn't in the room, But my mom did agree to go for it, and now she has full control of Nova's body... and as a result... in a sense... she's... alive... again....
Starlight felt conflicted, like Twilight she's still a little miffed that Nova didn't tell Twilight. At the same time though, her mother fully agreed to this. And... having gotten a full explanation now. The thought of having her mother in a physical body again was very enticing, even if the body is a little unfamiliar. And her mom was determined to help not just one, but two alter egos that have had terrible upbringings and/or done misdeeds... not too far from Starlight herself actually...
Starlight lowers her head.
Starlight: I see... and understand now... Heh, Nova... if we had properly met earlier... we'd probably have so much in common... she helped you like she comforted me when I came clean to her about what I had done... and while it'll probably take some getting used to... I... wouldn't mind having some foster sisters around. Even if you're not exactly the first pony in here to have some form of sisterhood with...
She not so subtly refers to Twilight, given her goal in life is to not just become co-ruler. But actually be recognized as the successor to Luna as much as Twilight is the successor to Celestia. That includes the idea of two sister alicorns, even if in this case it won't be by blood.
Nova: (Well she's got the gist of it, though I feel like maybe I could have explained my way to getting to this point rather than just waiting to ask for forgiveness…)
Fury: (Let's be real though, we would have tried it no matter what. I know you, Nova. It wouldn't be something you'd let go. Especially because of who we were doing it for.)
The two share a laugh, Starlight surprising them by being so accepting of the situation, much like her mother was.
Nova: (I can't believe how kind you can all be, it's hard to grasp sometimes. I honestly don't know if we deserve this kindness but...I guess that comes with the territory of not trusting many others all these years. But still, I'll take this makeshift family over my blood related one any day of the week!
You tell our 'sis' that we'll be looking forward to actually forging a friendship but also a bit of a rivalry! I mean, Fury and I are the oldest ones compared to her or Twilight! I've been interested to see how our science and her magic stack up!)
Nova was getting more fired up about this as she spoke.
Nova: (Who knows? I might try to take a throne for myself! Haha! Princess of Science sounds like it's right up my alley! I can see it now!)
It was obvious that she was joking but it was all in good fun for her.
Fury: (Now that we're all caught up, why don't we spend some time outside huh? I'm sure we don't want to spend all three days in the museum! Besides, I'm sure your husband will want to see the new you!)
Sunset agrees that it may be time to get some fresh air.
Sunset: Twilight and Starlight, let's head back near Fi-Fi's place. Or... shall I say...
She turns to Starlight, while also hinting to Nova and Fury inside her head that she includes them in this too.
Sunset: Our home...
Starlight's eyes immediately watering, this was still a bit weird to her. But... if this was the only way for her mother to truly be back in full flesh and blood. She'd gladly take this over nothing at all. She approaches her mother, and gives her a big, tight hug the fusion of Sunset and Nova wastes no time returning the favor. As Sunset herself predicted, this was a very special hug. Twilight's eyes watering in pure happiness for both her student and Sunset.
If there were any more doubts in their head about Sunset accepting this, they faded the moment she included them in calling her house their home too.
Nova: (C-come on, I just stopped crying! I d-don't show this much emotion in one day.)
Fury: (Maybe that's the problem, maybe you should give it a shot!)
Internally, Nova and Fury give Sunset their own hug while she hugs Starlight.
Nova: (I'll admit...this is really nice. Sunset… er m-mom was totally right in her prediction. But let's go! I want to see what our home is like!)
Twilight, Starlight, and Sunspark walk together out of the museum and head towards Starlight's old home. They can see Firelight near the front door, however, he wasn't alone. Sunburst and his parents were there as well. Sunset was surprised to see her brother Sunspot and his family here too. But figures that helps decrease the amount of times they have to explain what's happened.
Nova and Fury having Sunset's memories within them now know Sunspot was a very helpful detective in many of Sunset's adventures. Spot wasn't in his name for nothing, though they also know how dedicated he was to his younger sister that he went on a decade-long trek around the world searching for any sign of her. He only found Sunset's horn in the end, which was how arguably the most macabre part of the museum got here.
As the three approach Firelight along with the Sunburst family. Their group waves a greeting to Twilight, Starlight, and....
Firelight: Whhhhhhhaaaaaa....?!
Along with Firelight's surprise, Sunburst's family's jaws dropped as they looked at Sunspark. Clearly recognizing traits of Sunset, but not understanding what this means yet. Sunset sighed.
Sunset: (Welp, time to explain things for the 3rd time in a row... we're going to have to be doing this a lot aren't we...)
Sunspot wasn't the only pony along with them, Stellar Flare was present as well along with one pony Nova did recognize prior to seeing all of Sunset's memories, Sunburst.
Nova: (Woah… that's your brother right? I wasn't expecting to see him here too! I mean… he DOES live here but like I didn't think he would have been here today… hmm he might not take what I did very well but at the same time, he might? Ugh, it's so weird to not be able to explain myself out there.)
Fury loomed over Nova with a wide grin
Fury: (Aaaaah, not so fun from this side is it? No trying to rip control away either you have to sit and accept what they have to say. No running from it, no trying to shut yourself away. This situation is not within your control! It's all a part of wanting to be accepted by them. But you know that already, because I know it.)
Nova pouts while Fury gives her a more playful hug
Fury: (Watching you squirm is just so fun for me, but don't you worry. I know that 'Momma Sunset' will handle it just fine! Speaking of which…)
She and Nova look outward to Sunset
Fury: (It may be for the best that we write this down, that way we don't have to keep repeating ourselves. Cause as fun as it is to watch ponies freak out, it's gonna get tiresome. Even if it is to be expected! Hey be glad we didn't grow wings with that magic boost! That would have been even more of a pain to explain to everypony! ...actually hold on, we may not have to explain ourselves this time, I think Sunburst is already figuring it out without an explanation.)
Sunburst, after picking his jaw up from the floor, circles around Sunspark, looking quite intrigued by their design.
Sunburst: This… should be impossible. You look like...no, it can't be. You're Nova correct? ...or are you… auntie Sunset? Who or what are you exactly?
Nova: (Eh he's close to getting it! Not surprising though. He's a smart one, I've seen some of his work, his understanding of magic theory is quite good)
Sunspot turned towards his son
Sunspot: What?! You mean... my sister… has become a part of... this Nova pony...?
Firelight: Shimmy...?!
Sunburst: I… I don't know? Maybe? I've read some of her findings on genetic assimilation but this goes far beyond that!
He looked just as confused as everyone else there but at the same time, he was astounded by such potential.
Sunburst: What sort of thing did they do to even accomplish this feat? What kind of power did they tap into? I know Auntie was gifted, but I didn't think she could do that!
Stellar just puts a hoof on her cheek, she's half concerned, but also kind of intrigued. Just like how she's all about advancements of technology and civilization, new magic uses kind of excite her. She keeps quiet for now, she doesn't want to jump the magic spell just yet.
Sunspot: My gosh… I… wish Celestia was here to see this… she’d think this is incredible!
Twilight’s ears perk up, she thinks she may be able to arrange that. Then Sunspark puts a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder.
Sunset: Hold up, let me try something. Before you or Starlight showed up, there was something else we learned. If we’re correct… we may be able to do this ourselves.
Twilight went wide-eyed.
Twilight: Huh? Are you saying… you two might be able to grant wishes now? You’re not saying your fusion made you two into a genie, are you?`
Sunspark shakes her head.
Sunset: Nor really, although we may share a great amount of abilities. I was able to fly all around the museum by transforming our backside/lower half into a ghostly tail. But to really put it to the test, wishing power would give us an idea of what we’ve gained. Let us try to bring Celestia here. If it doesn’t work, you can do it after. We just have to find out what we’re really capable of right now.
Twilight nods, giving them the ok.
Sunset: (Nova, Fury, are you ready? We’re teleporting Celestia here all the way from wherever she is in Silver Shoals. That should be just about child’s play for our power if our hunch is correct. And Celestia can just be teleported back or use that portal gum to go back whenever she wants to. Alright?)
Nova and Fury stood at attention within their mind, more eager to show off.
Nova: (It sounds like we're getting some doubts out there! I'm not about to pass up an opportunity to show up Twilight at her own game! Besides, this is an excellent test! We get to even show Celestia how far we've come!(
As Sunset began to charge their magic, the spiritual auras formed around themselves both inside and outside. Nova's blue and Fury's red aura's being channeled into this more fiery looking spirit power. Their eyes began to glow as their horn sparkled, yet there was no strain on any of them, using the magic this way felt right, it flowed through them naturally. Soon enough the magic shot out in front of them forming a ball of light, when it dissipated, a very confused Celestia stood before them.
Celestia: Hm? Wha…?! T-Twilight? Starlight? Did you bring me here? A little heads up would have been appreciated…
She chuckled, not having noticed who brought her there yet.
Celestia: Everything looks fine to me, is something… the… matter....?"
Her eyes finally locked with Sunspark, seeing the combination of assets, she was stunned. She took a step forward, her lip quivering as if she wanted to say something but couldn't get it out. But she seemed to understand who she was looking at even with their fused appearance.
Celestia: You… S-s-sunset? SUNSET!!
Sunspark looks up, as Sunset's voice confirms Celestia's thoughts.
Sunset: Hello, Princess...
Celestia had been retired for a few years by now, but Sunset still called her Princess more so affectionately than for courtesy around royalty these days. Sunspark also braces for a big hug from the Alicorn.
Meanwhile, Twilight was stunned that they had managed to perform wish magic. Twilight wasn't the only wish granter now. She lets Celestia have her moment to reunite with Sunset now that she's alive again in a sense. But Twilight's eager to know how this fusion seems to have given them powers on par with her. She wasn't upset with the idea, she knew as long as Sunset was in there they'd be responsible. But it was still so shocking to have somepony else on par with her now.
And if Twilight was surprised, everypony else was even more so by the existence of another pony able to grant wishes. In Sunspot's thoughts, he was actually quite proud of her sister. Anytime Sunset is in control of Nova's body, she's on equal terms with Twilight. Even if it's not for any more than 3 days at a time, Sunset is tied with Twilight as the most potentially powerful ponies in the world. Though Twilight might still have something of an edge for now with many more years of experience with wish magic.
Twilight: Well, I guess we know who to count on should something end up disabling me in some fashion. Which I hope never happens, but having emergency heroes at our disposal is quite welcome!
Celestia gave a small chuckle before giving her a tight hug
Celestia: You know I don't go by that title anymore, it's just Celestia now. I know I've already hugged you as a spirit, but I haven't gotten to do it like this since before you left…
Sunset: Old habits die hard, Princess. Just because you don't rule any longer, doesn't mean you're no longer still the Princess I dedicated my life to.
Sunspark winks, before bowing
She pulled back for a moment to get a better look at her.
Celestia: And it seems our other student has had quite the influence on you. Or perhaps I should say it's the other way around? Nova, I know you can hear me in there. You were always one to try and push the boundaries of what you were capable of. I'm proud of you.
That one statement meant so much to the tatzls, Nova's eyes started to water.
Nova: (She… she's proud of us? REALLY?!)
Perhaps, it was some influence Nova still had over their body or it was possibly an involuntary response, but Sunspark's tail wagged excitedly when told that.
Sunburst along with everypony else were stunned by the power on display here. Such a long range teleportation without the use of portal gum or genie magic was no small task. He went up to Starlight and Twilight, wondering how they were feeling about all this
Sunburst: One of Equestria's greatest heroes, back in the world of the living! With you three working together, Equestria will be safer than ever! And we can have our family back together! Starlight, can you believe this? You can now have your mom here in more than just her spirit form!
Starlight nods towards her cousin's observation.
Starlight: It is definitely one of the best new developments in magic ever since we found out Spike could summon the dead in the first place!
Twilight: Admittedly, we also have Discord in our corner. But he's not always around when things happen, that said I have heard he's actually assisted more than he ever has. Sunset, it does seem like that talk that you, Starlight, and Fluttershy said some years back really got to him. He'll pull the occasional harmless prank on me, but otherwise he certainly has not pulled a stunt anywhere near close to bringing all those villains back since.
Sunset: That's good to hear... he really needed to stop bucking around and endangering Equestria just in his odd ways of testing your princesshood...
Starlight: Man, even if I ascend I'll be inferior to the both of you. I don't exactly intend on becoming a genie, and while I do love you very much, Mom so don't take this the wrong way. But I don't know if I want to share my body with you, it just sounds... weird to be honest. Heh, it'd probably confuse the heck out of Dad how to talk to us if we fused.
Firelight just about confirms that by imagining his wife in his daughter's body. That'd be pretty awkward regardless of how he approached them.
Twilight: Well, Starlight. If you really wanted to have a big boost with this. Maybe you could combine it with say Jinn? She'd even have multiple millennia of knowledge you'd get from her.
Starlight thinks about it, having the bubbly first ever genie have control of her body. However she's kind of afraid there'd be so many memories loaded into her head from somepony that lived so long she wonders if there'd even be room for her own memories.
Starlight: Eh... no thanks. If we run into a situation where somehow Twilight, and Nova are unable to do anything. I could portal gum to Malakhar and ask him to genify me as a pure emergency. And I'd go back to normal before the time limit goes up. I just don't think the genie life is for me, personally. Even if that simulation from way back felt really good...
Celestia: It truly is good to have you back, even if it is only temporary. And I'm sure that dedication goes for the both of you
Nova may not be seen from the outside, but her face is a deep shade of red.
Fury: (I'd call that a yes!)
Nova: (S-shush!! So what? D-don't look too into it!)
She says, still trying to hide some emotions despite Sunset and especially Fury knowing how Nova actually feels.
When the conversation shifts over to how they can benefit from it. And the topic of Discord comes up as well as someone like Starlight trying this type of fusion. This perks Nova up a bit.
Nova: (You know if Discord is still causing you all some trouble, you could always send him our way. I've yet to catalog draconequus DNA and I'd love to examine him! That chaotic genetic structure must be out of this world~!
Also you may want to warn them about how precise the spell has to be to work. I mean I'm sure Starlight is far more capable than we are thanks to her raw potential that she's gained from you. But if somepony like the original genie were factored into this, that kind of multiplied power may be too much even for her... after what it took to get you in here I may need to rethink about trying this experiment with Twilight...)
Fury raises an eyebrow at this.
Fury: (Uh huh, and I'm sure you're still gonna try it anyway aren't you?)
Nova: (...I might…)
Sunset chuckles about Starlight's hesitation of fusing with her.
Sunset: I perfectly understand, Starlight. I admit I am kinda curious what kind of power our raw talent together would be multiplied into. Like… Imagine if together we were more powerful then Twilight! But there's no need to unless Twilight were to somehow go rogue
Twilight gulped a little at that thought, she's certainly happy now that both Sunset and Starlight would never want to harm her. And the thought of her going evil somehow has crossed her mind but she's stayed pure long enough to get this far.
Stellar Flare: Not to butt in... but you girls haven't even fully explained how this all came to be. Some of us are still in the dark about this!
Sunset realizes they haven't even gotten into explaining what happened in the Museum
Sunset: Oh oops! Yeah... sorry about that. We've already told everything to Twilight and Starlight. I guess we just didn't feel like explaining it the 3rd time in a row so quickly like that. But... it is important. So we'll do the honors and tell you all.
Once more, everything that went on inside the museum is explained from Nova's spell all the way to the mutual benefits for both Nova and Sunset. It's a lot to take in, but they manage to warm up to the idea well enough. Sunset can have a living body again which for some made it worth it by itself, Sunset's doing what she can to help a pony (or rather two) feel what a loving family can be like, and it's an all new aspect to soul magic that will have magic geeks like Twilight and Sunburst just gushing inside their minds about the possibilities in the future.
Nova: (I get where she's coming from but that's a shame, the power you two would have would dwarf ours right now! And as much as I don't like admitting that, it's a cold hard fact. But Twilight, evil? Ehhhh I don't see it… at least not by her own volition, she's way too much of a goody goody.)
Sunburst nodded in agreement with his mother.
Sunburst: Yes please, we're dying to know how this is even possible! I have just so many questions on your current state of being! And the state of Nova within you too, is she locked away? Sleeping? Or is she right there and can hear us?
Celestia chimed in on that last question
Celestia: Nova's situation is a bit unique so I'm sure she can hear us, but I too would love to hear how this was attained.
As Sunset explained one more time, everypony who hadn't heard how it all worked were stunned in amazement. The remarks of adding Nova and Fury to their family in a sense does give some trepidation to those that haven't properly met her yet but they still seem open to the idea given that she was willing to give up her own body for the time being to even make this work.
Sunburst: Oh my goodness! If soul magic can be harnessed in that way, just imagine the possibilities. And ponies like myself who don't have the highest magical power… even we can be helpful too. B-but not only that, we can get closer than ever before to our late loved ones! And Nova, since I know you can now hear me in there, we have to exchange notes later. I want to hear everything, from how you even came up with the idea to its execution!
Celestia looked down at Sunspark with a smile.
Celestia: Even now you're still trying to help ponies when they need it the most, Sunset. Some things never change do they? I hope she's not giving you too much trouble in there.
She gave the mare a playful wink.
Nova: (H-hey! We're being as good as we can be!)
Fury: (That's right! We're prime daughter material over here!)
Firelight: Well, Shimmy... I do admit I've always wanted Starlight to have at least one sister. And now between those two in your head, and how she and Twilight sometimes are... it's like she has 3 sisters now! Hehe, I better start thinking of more nicknames!
Starlight jokes and winks to Nova and Fury
Starlight: Oh gosh! If you weren't stuck with my mom in control I'd suggest you start running now. If you're going to be a part of this family, you're going to have to tolerate my father's nicknames!
Doesn't help that because Nova and Fury have Sunset's memories, they know that Starlight's nicknames were actual names he proposed to name Starlight before she was born.
Stellar meanwhile is about crying about just how heartwarming this is. So many joyful tears that it begins to make her nose run as she gets out a handkerchief and blows into it.
Stellar: My my, Nova you really put a lot of... plans into this. You really were meant to be a part of our family~
Sunburst about groaning on Stellar's mention of plans.
Sunspot: Sis, this is absolutely the most fantastic coming of events since I got to reunite with you when you were first summoned. Thankfully this time, it's a lot less bittersweet. Tell me when you want to go on an adventure like the good ol' times. I'd love to start spotting some dinosaur fossils with you again.
Sunspark smiles
Sunset: I'd love that, big bro! (Don't suppose you two in here are dinosaur fans?)
Sunburst: Oh dear, I hope you're able to deal with the way mom plans things... (I actually feel sorry they can't defend themselves at the moment.)
Celestia: And I'll be sure to visit when you're all here as well! It'll warm my heart to not only see my former students getting along but seeing the family you've all become a part of.
Hearing all this, it was quite overwhelming to say the least, especially for Nova. This kind of warm acceptance by them all, it was very unfamiliar to the mare. It made her recoil but not out of disgust, just unfamiliarity to the feeling. Fury on the other hand couldn't help but laugh
Nova: (They're all so...eager about this. I would have thought they might see me as just some weird intruder or just someone butting into business that I should have no part in… This is what a normal family is like...? What have we just gotten ourselves into?)
Fury: (Boy, I've never been so glad to not have my own body. You can enjoy ALL of these family shenanigans for the two of us, Nova! I know how much love and attention you've wanted, now you're getting plenty of it!)
Nova glared at her counterpart
Nova: (I'll be sure they pick only the highest quality nickname for you… I may even have to give Firelight... or dad… ooh, that's going to take some getting used to. But I'll give him some suggestions for you! We've seen all of 'mom's' memories of him so we know his preferences!)
The two tatzls look quite interested in the comment about dinosaurs.
Nova: (Of course I am, are you kidding!? They're massive creatures whose DNA I'd love to get my hooves on! N-not to try and revive the dinosaurs, I'm not that foolhardy. We know why that would be a TERRIBLE idea. But to harness it and maybe gain some dino traits? Absolutely! Plus it gives us a better idea of ancient Equestria! I mean you said that the cave ponies in the shield can talk now, with you coming back and forth we can uncover ancient secrets and species once lost to time!)
Sunset on the outside mentions her next thing about dinosaurs mostly to her brother, but also mean to tell this to Nova and Fury
Sunset: Better yet, I can tell you I've actually seen many dinosaurs in the soul shield. All kinds of them, both predators and prey, admittedly you'd think that'd be awkward. But the meat eaters aren't evil even if they do kill prey. They were doing what they needed to survive. Animals like them and less sentient ones we know today have an easier time getting into the soul shield, as it's hard for a wild creature to be acting on actual malicious intent.
And even just observing them up there, I think it's quite likely that Dinosaurs aren't just the ancestors of birds. Some of them went on to become the ancestors of dragons. And that's pretty important! Since we all know I'm back down here because of the Dragon Tears. We have so much to thank dinosaurs for now, don't we?
Nova: (You've gotten to see them!? Maybe we glossed past that memory of you in the shield but that's incredible! But it doesn't surprise me that they would not be deemed evil for following instinct. I think if that were the case, it would be far more cruel. And you bring up an interesting idea, dragons having a common ancestor in the dinosaurs doesn't sound too far fetched. Now if that truly is the case, I wonder if we could find an ancient form of dragon tears with dinosaur bones? We could have an entire treasure trove of them just waiting to be dug up!)
Fury chuckles
Fury: (Sounds like you've already got a family trip planned in mind. But remember we've got only 3 days to be like this, we shouldn't try and squeeze everything into this one trip for Sunse… mom. We can always plan ahead. I'm sure Sunspot will want to learn about us too, make sure we're on the up and up when we're separated.)
Sunset: (Yeah there's so much to do, I've probably already overwhelmed myself with seeing everypony I'm familiar with. I'd still like to see Velvet again, or rather, Twilight's mother and of course my parents back in Silver Shoals. And then there's the other elements of Harmony who'd probably love to see us too.. I know we could have somepony wish them over just like with Celestia, but I think that's enough for today. We'll get to see any number of them on either the 2nd day, or the 3rd day.. I just wanna relax with our family for tonight, take things easy first.)
Sunset: So Starlight, now that I'm in a real body... what's the first activity you want to do?
Starlight thinks some stuff over, there's so much they could possibly do. But then she has a bit of an eureka moment, on the perfect, but also very chill and relaxing moment to start off.
Starlight: I'm... thinking some kite flying would be quite nice... I've shown you my kite flying... but I'd really like to see my mother actually able to pull kites herself again.
The rather mundane, but heartwarmingly simple task for their first activity together puts a smile on just about everypony's face.
Twilight: Heh, why don't we ALL fly kites!. If you don't have your own, just wish for one from me or Sunspark!
Suddenly a grumble is heard, coming from Sunspark. Sunspark putting a hoof on her chest.
Sunset: Ooooh...
Starlight: Huh? What was that, Mom?
Sunset: Dang, it's been so long since I've felt like this...
Twilight: What? Like... is it the feeling as if butterflies were warming your heart or something like that?
Sunset: ...No, it's our stomach. I'm HUNGRY! Can we make this kite flying get-together a picnic too? Hehe
The group begins to chuckle and laugh. There's going to be a period where Sunset's getting used to bodily functions and senses again. The ponies knew that was going to take some adjustment.
Nova: (U-uh maybe we'll just see how that all goes yeah? I'm uh...not good interacting with so many new ponies. Even if I'm not the one out there, this is still a whole lot for me to process. You should know we're only used to being around just a small group of ponies we trust. I'm not opposed to meeting all of them, but this is all so new for me. Honestly it's like… you remember how the grand galloping gala used to be and there were just so many ponies who wanted to talk to you and Celestia? It's like that! And I'm here just wanting to sit in the corner…)
Fury: (It is a bit much for us, but I think it's more the fact that you're also getting used to the lack of control. It's going to take some time. But this is a good lesson to learn I think!)
The mention of wanting to go fly kites and have a picnic too eases some of the tension and makes Nova laugh
Nova: (Flying kites? Heh sounds simple enough! Hey maybe we should conjure up some extra ones like we're also out there with you! It could give you some practice in using our tail! I mean we can conjure up some for ourselves here but I wanna be out there in… spirit… heheh
Oh and uh just a heads up but we can eat a TON. Though you don't have to...partake in our more peculiar eating habits. It'll be your first time having food in years so try to go slow with it. Last thing we need is to choke.)
Celestia: Oooh, if you're all going to have a picnic, I'd love to join you. Perhaps we can pick up some cakes along the way?
She licks her lips
Celestia: Now that I don't have to worry about any royal duties, I can indulge as much as I want! It'll be good to catch up with all of my students as well.
Firelight's just about in the most joyous tears in his life
Firelight: I... have been dreaming of this moment ever since I met you, Shimmy... me, you, our children, and however many of our family and friends... simply enjoying life together...
I... N-nova... if you can hear me... I know I'm probably a stranger to you... but I can't thank you enough for doing this for my wife... you'll always be welcome into our family... feel free to come by Sire's Hollow sometime even when Shimmy's back up there protecting the planet. I wouldn't mind truly meeting my new daughter... or daughters from what I hear...
Sunset smiles
Sunset: D'awww... come here, Fi-Fi...
Sunspark and Firelight go in for a heartwarming hug between a loving husband and wife
The gesture made Nova sniffle a bit, she didn't know if there were any more tears to let out after the day they've had.
Nova: (You tell him I'll happily take him up on his offer. I'll have to explain how Fury and I work to him when I get the chance but it'll be nice to actually spend time with a father for once. Our relationship with our biological father is...well it's not as horrible as our biological mother but it's not like he'd ever be getting a 'world's greatest dad' mug anytime soon, he would've had to be around for that!)
Nova took a deep breath and calmed down. The hug from the outside definitely helped in that regard. The group on the outside all let out a collective 'awww' at the sight.
Though suddenly Sunspark’s eyes open with a bit of a smug smirk.
Sunset: (You know what I should do again, that I couldn't do as a spirit? I didn't have any real weight anymore that’s needed to get just the right leverage. You ready, Nova and Fury~. Though uh... also... let's make sure we conjure something soft for him to land on. I don't know if his bones are as strong as they once were)
Both Fury and Nova grinned as Sunset gave them a chance to do something they knew that all of them would appreciate.
Nova & Fury: (Suplex, suplex, SUPLEX, SUPLEX!!! Let's gooooo! ahahahaha!)
Sunspark conjured a large mattress with pillows as soft as clouds, and then proceeded to slam Firelight downward. It caught the group by surprise, though they've all visited the museum at least once. They knew this was Sunset and Firelight's ol’ 'tradition'
Firelight shrieked as he was being suplexed for the first time in so many years. Very thankful they had thought to give him a comfortable landing, he's quite older then he was in his prime. So no guarantees his bones would have held out. He's still a little dazed, but he smiles.
Firelight: This... is how I know you're truly back... Shimmy... a heh heh heh...
Sunspark beamed a grin as the rest of the group got their laughs in.
The group then proceeded to order some delicious food, and once they had their fill. All of them release a kite into the wind. Starlight's favorite activity ever since she was a filly, now being shared amongst friends and family. They hung out together until it got dark, many being teleported by either Twilight or Sunspark back home. Or staying in Sire's Hollow, Sunset getting to experience sleeping in a bed physically, sleeping in what was once both Firelight's and her bed once upon a time, and now was again for at least a little while, and actually falling asleep without being sent back up to the soul shield. She wondered if she'd even get to dream for the first time in forever....
As the first day went on, Nova got to learn more about the family she'd just become a part of. For the first time in years, she was genuinely looking forward to spending time with these new relatives and also making memories of her own. As the trio laid down both in the real world and in their mindscape. Nova and Fury snuggled up to Sunset.
Nova: (I hope this isn't too awkward that we get close like this. We can always pull back if need be. But… did you enjoy your first day back in a living body? I know it probably wasn't what you might think you'd be doing today. But I know I'm glad it worked out. I never thought that spending a day with family could be so… fun.)
Fury: (You can say that again. I may actually want to swap in and out when we come to visit on our own! And mom... remember if you do get tired during the day, one of us can always swap in for a bit. But we know you want to maximize all the time you get down here. Plus, we'll actually be able to share dreams while we're in here too! We probably should have brought that up earlier but it's good to know now. So Nova, you better have safe thoughts!)
Nova blushes from that last comment but it also raises a point that neither she or Fury had thought about.
Fury: (That reminds me… I hate to sour the moment but I hope you aren't expecting to um… you know… with Firelight.)
Nova: (Yeah… yeah no… not with us still in here. He's nice and all but definitely not our type. And with us calling him dad now that's just... the cuddling is fine but…)
Sunset laughs and winks
Sunset: (No worries, you two. 'That' is one of the few things I was actually still able to do even as a spirit~. A little something special for those heartbroken by the death of those they married and/or dated.
Nova & Fury: (Oh thank Luna…)
The two let out a collective sigh of relief. The two then give Sunset one more hug before feeling the tiredness finally get to them.
Sunset: But before this conversation gets too awkward, I am very much enjoying this thus far. Thank you so much, Nova. You have my eternal gratitude.)
Nova: (We've got more fun to be had. I… I couldn't have been able to do any of this if you hadn't inspired me as a filly so long ago. None of us can get that lost time back, but we can make new, better memories going forward.)
That night Sunset would have the first dream she's had since before her passing. She is surrounded by her friends and family… along with the two new additions to it.
Upon the beginning of the 2nd day, Sunset and Nova agreed that they'd spend a majority of the day in Canterlot. Where Sunset would see her childhood friend and Twilight's mother, Twilight Velvet. Velvet had already been pretty happy to see Sunset as a spirit, but as she learns about how she has the option of being in a real live body again. She is absolutely ecstatic. They were able to have plenty of talks when Sunset was only a spirit, but Velvet was nonetheless glad Sunset was lucky enough to have a kind enough pony to give her another chance at life even if only in short bursts.
Velvet also suggested if Sunset would like to join another MILF club meeting if a convenient date falls on a time where she's in Nova's body again. Nova at first not knowing what they were getting into, until both she and Fury get a sigh of relief that MILF means "Mothers In Lovely Families". Velvet also praises Nova for doing so much for her dear friend, also telling her that she does somewhat remember a little filly of what traits of Nova were still there in their form. And is proud of how they've progressed.
Mentioning the school however did give Sunset an idea, a revisit to the School of Gifted Unicorns where they can see the next generation of well-skilled unicorns that hope to make a difference. While Sunset was still in control, it felt like Nova was at least for a short time was now in Sunset's shoes on that special day depicted in the photograph in the museum. Wondering if their visit drives a particular filly to strive for her dreams even when life gets rough.
Tons of nostalgic feelings overwhelmed both Sunset and Nova as they walked through the school's hallways. Each room they looked in carried some sort of memory for one or even both of them. Once they're satisfied with a return to the school. it's Nova who suggested the next place: her lab.
Nova was touched by the day's early activities, meeting Velvet again, going to an interestingly named MILF club, and seeing the school once more. Something Nova was a bit hesitant to do at first given that she hadn't stepped a hoof in it since being 'banished'. It all felt so much different, like a dark cloud had been lifted since then. Sunset even gave Nova some time back in control to help inspire some of the students as well.
Thanks to the memories she'd seen from Nova, Sunset knew how to get to the lab but she would find it still such a shock to see in an unassuming place as it had no noticeable entry. Once inside, they were met with an initially confused Morpha. Seeing her in memories was one thing but to see a slime pony up close fascinated Sunset. And likewise, Morpha was fascinated by Nova's new appearance. Once they explained what happened, Morpha was elated at what they accomplished. Not only showing off some of their own recent experiments, but allowing them to relax for a bit in her makeshift hot tub and display some of her own tricks as well. She did tease Nova and Fury about getting Sunset to be a surrogate mother to them, but she was more than happy. Also telling Sunset every little secret that she could about them, knowing that Nova and Fury had to be held in check. From their thoughts and feelings on some of the others like herself or Celestia and to experiments they've always wanted to run. But of course Sunset did know all of this already.
They'd also taken the opportunity to invite one more friend of Nova's over, the lamia, Sahara. Sunset would easily tell by her attire and unique magic what she truly is, but Sahara would wink at her, saying to keep that under wraps. Nova and Fury merely shrugged it off as Sahara being cryptic since she was known to do that. Sunset may also be able to tell that Nova and Sahara might have something going on between them but she also seemed like a giant flirt so it may be just reading too much into it.
Through it all, Sunset could see how much these friends meant to Nova. And could appreciate how they were able to keep her stable. Sahara did invite Sunset over to her place at any time she wished. Suggesting that if she ever wanted to dance at her club she was more than welcome to. Something that got Nova blushing at the thought. While Fury fully encouraged it
Nova did float the idea of running an experiment while they were there but it had already gotten late to really start one. Morpha and Fury remind her of how she gets when really focuses on something and loses track of time. Nova did make a promise to Sunset that they would get to experiment someday in the future.
Before they go to sleep before the final day, Nova decided to show Sunset her notes about the Dragon's Tear that would eventually lead to her discovering the spell that had fused them.
The notes Nova still had room for potential further study. Nova had already thought of questions to answer if the initial test had worked. Even with the more emotional side of herself that she'd been showing on the first day, that meticulous side of her never left either. There were even some candidates listed to see if she could get them to replicate what she did with Sunset but for a pegasus and an earth pony. With different accessory ideas to make it work. Most notably being the apple family as primary candidates for earth ponies. She also still had notes on what might happen if she were to try this with Twilight Sparkle, showing that the mare may have liked her more than she let on.
They made sure to get some rest as they wanted to get an early start for their final day together, taking the time to go to Silver Shoals and Ponyville.
Upon visiting Silver Shoals, they first went to see Celestia one more time. This time at their homes in retirement, and meeting up with Luna. Sunset of course had been seeing Luna a number of times as a spirit, with interesting discussions between the two in those 5 years though Celestia still held more of a special place in Sunset's heart. Though with Nova's memories, Sunset felt Nova's reverence for Luna in the past. So at the very least Sunset learned of something she had in common with Luna, both being figures that Nova looked up to.
Nova was more than happy to visit the former princesses, like Sunset did with Celestia, Nova had still referred to Luna with her title. But on top of that, seeing Celestia so happy to be with her student, it was like being a little filly again. The resentment she had once felt for Celestia had been gone for some time now but this joy with the both of them was something she never thought she could feel again.
After a delightful meeting with the former royals, Sunset had taken them to see her parents. They were a bit confused as to why or how a mare who vaguely resemble their daughter came to visit. Thankfully with Celestia and Luna there as well, they were able to fully explain the situation which resulted in another tearful reunion for their daughter. They too had seen Sunset as a spirit but to hold their daughter in their hooves again with a physical body was something they never thought would ever be possible again.
By the time lunch had rolled around, Sunset was now taking them to a place that made Nova a bit more nervous than the others, Ponyville. While she was already friends with Twilight, the rest of the elements she's not as familiar with. But this meeting was bound to happen with or without Sunset to help.
Luckily for them, they didn't have to explain things over and over again since Twilight had briefed them about what had happened in Sire's Hollow. What followed was Pinkie giving a ‘Sunset is alive again (Sorta) Party’. Being rushed into a party was a bit uncomfortable for Nova, but thanks to Sunset having a fair bit of social skills given she was at her fair share of Grand Galloping Galas, she was able to get them through.
Pinkie mostly hosted the festivities, and with a new pony in Ponyville. Pinkie made notes for the Sugarcube Corner basement about Sunset and Nova. The latter kind of surprised Pinkie has a fair bit of organized note-taking, even if it makes sense for her to keep track of everypony's likes and dislikes.
While there wasn't too much she had to say, Rainbow Dash thought this whole fusion thing was awesome especially when she was told that the spell ended up multiplying their power and they were about on equal level with even Twilight afterward.
Rarity was curious about the fused body, and quickly decided to make some measurements. Obviously, she was giving herself some notes for clothes for Sunspark. And maybe even Nova herself if she was interested.
The one Nova was most comfortable with was Fluttershy who shared their love of animals and/or creatures big and small.
Though perhaps the most interesting conversation came with Applejack. With the new spell able to put deceased ponies inside living ponies’ bodies. The subject quickly came to if Applejack, or anyone else in her family would like to have her mom and dad channeled into them at some point. Applejack loved her parents, though she wasn’t sure she wanted either one of them in her body. But she wondered if maybe Sugar Belle and Big Mac would be interested. That way the two of them were still in married Apple family bodies regardless. Applejack said she'll get back to them on that offer some other time. Wait until all related parties consent to the idea.
After filling their bellies with Applejack's cooking and Pinkie's dessert. They decide before going to Sire's Hollow they'd make one last stop: the School of Friendship where Starlight worked as its headmare. It was after school hours, but it gave them an opportunity to see what both Twilight and Starlight had accomplished in the last 5 years with all the happy students of all kinds of species attending. When they finally saw Starlight, she was in her office talking with Ocellus. Continuing her studies about changelings, in which Nova was able to learn at least some of what Starlight's learned. This visit also served another purpose, they figured Starlight may want to be there when Sunset heads back out of Nova's body and back to the soul shield. And they thought it'd be appropriate to let her go back from Sire's Hollow.
After the introduction to the other elements of harmony, Sunset had pushed Nova back into control so she could converse with them all. This kind of attention still made her a bit uneasy, but having Sunset reassure her as well as Fury always there to light a fire under her. It allowed her to truly get to understand these ponies more. Seeing facets of them that she would have never guessed from just observing them from afar. Ponyville wasn't a place that Nova visited often but she made a note to actually try doing so a bit more now. Some of the ideas proposed by Rarity, Fluttershy and the one she posed to Applejack interested her. But not only did she want to get to know all of them better, she was truly enamored with the Everfree Forest and the creatures it held. Even if she was told it's nowhere near as wild as it used to be.
Nova still had some trepidation over why a school of friendship needed to exist but it was much more clear to her now that it was making a difference in the world. Getting more information on the changelings would be something she'd want to continue discussing with Starlight once she learned more. Once the day's festivities were coming to a close, they had teleported back to Sire's Hollow.
Once there, all of Sunset's family were outside of the museum, waiting for them. Sunburst, Sunspot, Stellar Flare, and Firelight all came to see Sunset off. Nova and Fury were mentally preparing themselves to say goodbye to Sunset for now.
Nova: (So this is it huh? It really feels like these last 3 days just flew by! I do miss having full control over my body but… I am going to also miss having you in here with us too... I know this isn't the last time it'll happen but I can't help but feel a bit sad about it. I mean I definitely wasn't expecting to be taken into your family 3 days ago, that's for sure! Or to be calling you, mom, it still feels surreal.)
Sunset: (Can't say I expected to be sucked into a horn either, that was the most surreal part for me, and it was... an interesting experience. I'd even say it felt kinda good, like an instant full-body massage almost, I suppose I truly know now what it's like for Twilight to go into her bottle.
Though I should also consider your end since it was a pretty difficult spell. Perhaps you should take notes on the cool-down between performing the spell and when it's safe to do it again without overdoing it. So we can get a good idea of when to plan our next one. Perhaps over time you'll get stronger and be able to do it more frequently, but please don't risk overheating your horn for my sake. Three days or less each time is leagues better then just being a spirit)
Nova: (Well it didn't feel too bad… until it started to. But these are kinks I'll have to work out. I'll be more prepared for next time now that I know what to expect! I'll have plenty of notes and results to show you the next time!
Though...I'll for sure not try to cast anything high level for a while. Gonna be strange to be going back to slightly above average magic. But the next time you see me, I'll be more than capable of casting the spell! Besides, I've got a new 'sister' that I can't go falling too far behind from now! We also don't know what kind of strain, if any, your spirit may have so it's good that you go back up to the soul shield and properly recharge there too. Who knows, we could work towards finding a way to extend this 3 day limit!)
Fury: (I'll also make sure to do my own kind of training when I get control too. Thankfully we had no angry outbursts but you never know with this one.)
Nova: (Hey!)
Fury: (Heheh. I'll also be sure to keep this one in contact with the everypony, they've still got a bit to learn about us and vice versa. And I know we both want to spend some time with them… but for now I think we're getting close to the wire here…)
Fury let out a sigh. Both she and Nova gave Sunset one more internal hug before getting ready to cast the spell to unfuse.
Nova: (...are you ready to go, mom?)
Sunset teases
Sunset: (Someday soon you may technically have two new sisters to strive to compete with, even if you've technically already had matching her as a goal. Don't forget that Twilight's has occasionally served a purpose similar to an older sister to Starlight. I hope you have enough liquid in your body for the liquid pride I'm going to shed that day if we're there as a fusion for Starlight’s coronation!
Somehow this bit of information had slipped Nova's mind, this revelation put her in a state of disbelief.
Nova: (H-huh!? She's not your… but if she's like that to Starlight… so that means Twilight is technically my… WHAT?! GAAAAAH! How could I have missed such a crucial detail!? Oh great… now I know she's gonna have her fun calling me sis too. Uuugh, and I bet she's gonna make up some title like she does for her brother.)
She ruffles her mane in a frustrated manner, trying to look upset. But there's no hiding the small smile she has on her face. Fury looks over to Sunset with a smirk, knowing how Nova actually feels about this.
Nova: (And don't you worry, I'll make sure you're there for Starlight's ascension ceremony if it happens. But man, having to measure up to two alicorns and one being a genie on top of that? It's like trying to measure up to Celestia and Princess Luna all over again! Hahahah.... but I do like a good challenge, I am used to the odds being stacked against me. I guess as the more things change in this world, some things stay the same. But now I have even more of a reason to ascend in my own way!)
Sunset: (But yes Nova, I should get going now. I'll be sure to tell my extended family's spirits what's happened. I am a little afraid of getting a bit of jealousy from a fair share of spirits up there. But many are aware of my past and what I've done for the planet. And next time you see "meteor showers", there's a chance you could be seeing me up there.)
She nuzzles Nova, and says the three words Nova thought she'd never hear from a parent, blood or foster-wise.
Sunset: (I love you, Nova. I'm excited for all our future foster mother-daughter quality time.)
The last message from Sunset stunned both her and Fury. Neither of them had expected it, but once it was registered by them, both mares began to cry.
Nova: (Wha...you...really? D-damn it, and here I thought I wasn't going to cry again! I… I love you too, I always have.)
Fury: (W-we'll be sure to have plenty of ideas for more quality time, we swear!)
Even on the outside as everyone was waiting, Sunspark started to cry as well. Her horn began to flare up, encompassing her entire body, internally the magical auras of the three surrounded them. The ring on her horn sparked blue just like it had done when they had tried to pull her in. Slowly they could feel themselves coming apart, the magic separating from their body. In a brilliant sparkle of light, Sunset's spirit reformed on the outside while Nova's colors returned to normal.
Her mane no longer flowed like an alicorn's, their cutie mark returned to the spark that it once was. Though Nova did still feel some of the warmth that she felt when Sunset's magic merged with hers. Inside their mind, it grew a bit quieter as Sunset's presence was no longer there.
Nova looked up at the spirit form of Sunset once more, after the last 3 days of seeing her in a 'physical' form inside her mind and in their reflection, it was a little strange to see her like this again, but they knew this is what was meant to be.
Nova: Wait before you go... think we could have one last hug? I know I'd just phase through you but..
Sunset tilts her head and smiles.
Sunset: It's at least worth a shot, and we can at least try to make it look like we're hugging as best as possible.
The spirit floats on down to Nova's eye level and carefully places her hooves around Nova's neck in a position to preemptively prepare for part of her body to just phase through. Get as close as she can to making it look like a hug without too much of her spirit clipping through Nova's body.
But she gasps... as to her surprise... she feels something... the fur and body warmth of Nova's coat. Nova on her part can feel a sense of a surprising amount of comfortable warmth of a spirit too as Sunset's transparent hooves wrap around her in the same way she could do so with Starlight, Firelight, or anyone else in her family or were close friends.
While she was prepared to basically give the best kind of pretend hug she could. Nova's eyes shoot open as she realizes she's actually touching Sunset's spirit. She can't believe it, some tears start to fall from her eyes as she holds her tighter.
Nova: I... I'm not crazy right? I... I can actually feel you... like this... a-and you can feel me too?
Sunset holds on tight and thinks on this, ultimately giving Nova a warm smile
Sunset: ...Well, either... this is a nice unintentional benefit from your spell... since we were in the same body, we therefore shared blood and that was enough to trigger the condition of blood relation or... maybe it's more simple then that. Just a straight forward, sentimental connection we made in the past few days... to the point that even the cosmos are blessing your addition as a new family member.
Perhaps... it may be best to theorize... that it's a little of both. A successful spell from a hard-working student like you, and a sign that we are truly family for the rest of time.
Nova: That's... entirely plausible… heh, something to really look into then! Hahaha! But it sounds so cheesy too, mom!
Nova can't help but smile at this, if even the universe itself was accepting this, she didn't have any room to question it.
Nova: But that's not a bad thing… It means we really are family now, huh?
She did pull back from the hug, knowing that Sunset still had to leave, but she was comforted by the fact that she's truly part of something bigger.
Sunset waved one last time to Nova before focusing and shifting into her more comet-like form, zipping straight up into the atmosphere. A trail flying across the sky before it fades from view. Soon Sunset Shimmer was back to doing what she always did best in both life and death, doing her part to protect the world she loved.
Nova: (Bye, mom… and thank you)
Starlight puts a hoof around Nova's shoulder as she too watches Sunset return back up in her more comet-like form.
Once the comet was out of sight. Starlight turned and smiled to her foster sister. The scientist returning the favor in solidarity.
Starlight: I'd like to thank you one more time for doing this, it really does mean a lot to me and my... I mean... our entire family.
Though I thought I'd give you a bit of good news. I've messaged Twilight recently, and she's gradually gotten curious if this spell of yours would work on half-spirits like her one day. How does that sound? You're one lucky scientist!
Nova turns back to Starlight with a sad smile, removing the ring from her horn now that she would soon return the ring to the museum. Keeping in mind to make an entirely new one for the next time.
Nova: Hehe don't sweat it, it's gonna take some time for me to get used to being part of an actual family unit too. But I'll tell you what I told mom, I wanted to show my gratitude for everything she did for me when I was a filly. She was my inspiration through even my darkest days, and while she didn't know it then, she acted just as motherly to a filly like me. And to be able to reunite her with everypony like this...
I'm so glad I was able to pull it off. I know it's a strange way for us to properly meet, but hey I don't think either of us are strangers to weird things, huh?
She chuckles as Starlight mentions the good news to her. This puts a sly grin on the tatzl's face.
Nova: Oh really~? Seems she and I are thinking alike then. Good thing I've already got some notes in mind to see how it would work. So tell me, sis, are you ready to do some science?~
Related: Templight, “My Princess”, Sparkle Family Portrait
Tempest has a soft spot for her son, just as much as Nova has an incredibly soft spot for his mother.
Even after the events of the Storm King's Invasion, when Tempest was reintegrated into pony society, the mare experienced a long battle of self-acceptance. She struggled with the self-consciousness her shattered horn brought her; just the sight of other unicorns reminded her of what was missing. She had to force those intrusive thoughts aside each time. Her broken horn was just as powerful as the pony it belonged to; Twilight taught her this. And yet...
The unexpected happened after her son, Novis, came into her life. Nova as a child never perceived his mother's horn as broken. He'd often brag to his peers about her "open horn" and its powerful magic that could "split a tree in half and set it on fire while she was at it". It bewildered her at first, until she realized something profound:
Novis didn't know any different.
He was born into a world where a unicorn could have just a fragment of a horn and exist as just another unicorn. To Nova, she was simply unique. She was simply "mother". And that realization changed the way she saw herself.
Over the years, Tempest stopped perceiving her horn as "incomplete". It was literally broken, yes, but not incomplete. She's powerful, and whole, all the same.
But that doesn't mean her horn doesn't have some inconveniences. Any moisture that accidentally makes its way into her crackling horn almost always resulted in a sudden electric shock. It was annoying, but seeing as covering her horn would interfere with using her magic, it was an inconvenience she quietly tolerated.
That is until Nova was reminded of said inconvenience one day, and the moment a spark of ideas lit up in his mind, he wordlessly worked away in his room for a good few weeks.
The "Pressure" art dump mentions the moment in time when Nova invented a special water-repelling magic ring for Tempest (which subsequently evolved into the invention of the arcane umbrella). The arcane field the ring produces (horn-shaped purely for aesthetics~) deflects all water properties while allowing Tempest's powerful magic to phase through. Nova surprised Tempest with the gift, and Tempest was delighted (and proud) of his thoughtfulness.
The horn shape is a nice touch. But what gave Tempest true solitude was the realization that the sight of it no longer sparked a need or desire. It's just a curious and fascinating sight, reminding her of just how incredible her son is.
Fun fact: Baby Nova would imitate the sparking of Tempest's horn. That later manifested into his electricity-based magic and spells.
((Note: This is Part 1 of 2 of a crossover story with a friend of mine's character that delves into a what if they were in the I Dream of Twilight Sparkle universe. Here is their twitter (However, must of course warn that you will find NSFW art here)
Chronologically, this falls 5 years after the defeat of Cozy, Tirek, and Chrysalis. And also 5 years before Earnest Empathetic Change begins.
Just like the story where Nova Spark met up with Geniequestria Starlight, this serves as a B-canon in that it's canon if you want it to be. But won't likely effect stuff outside this story. We brainstormed and wrote this together, while my friend did all the supporting art for this))
A train arrives at the humble town of Sire's Hollow. It has been about half-a-decade since the defeat of Chrysalis, Tirek, and Cozy Glow in a climactic battle. Peace has reigned throughout Equestria, and thanks to the School of Friendship that same prosperity was being brought all over the world. There's still much work to be done, but the early returns seem to have shown great dividends already.
Princess Twilight Sparkle has filled in for Celestia and Luna nicely since she's taken the reins. Though this time Twilight is traveling with a fellow science-lover she's gotten to know better in the past 5 years thanks to being in Canterlot more often. A rather peculiar pony that goes by Nova Spark, who has made hardly any effort to hide that she has some resentment for Twilight. Though having actually gotten to speak with her. They've become at the very least mutual acquaintances, though Twilight has genuinely tried to connect with Nova better throughout this time. Even offering to at least give her an interesting research subject: a sample of a dragon tear to study and learn about back in her lab.
At some point,Twilight learned of Nova having had a reverence for none other than Sunset Shimmer. The protege of Twilight before her that Twilight first met as a spirit. By now everypony in Equestria is aware of the tragedy of Sunset Shimmer and how it impacted Starlight's life. It hit hard on Nova when she learned what had happened to her. Though she was comforted that she didn't entirely die in vain. Nova doesn't know if she'll ever get to see this spirit of Sunset herself. As she understands that anytime Sunset's down here she may prefer to be around her family. She hopes to one day see Sunset again, but doesn't hold her breath that it'd be anytime soon.
For now though, Twilight at the very least brings Nova to a place she knows the scientist will love. The Sunset Shimmer Museum that was built by Firelight and Stellar Flare as a tribute to Equestria's fallen hero.
Standing in front of the huge statue of Sunset rearing up bravely, she looks and smiles at Nova.
Twilight: Here we are Nova, the Sunset Shimmer museum!
The train ride down was mostly uneventful. Nova had given her recent findings on the Dragon Tear sample, though she claimed the research was still incomplete. Other than that, she had been more focused on getting to the museum. While she may have looked and sounded dismissive, one thing she couldn't hide was the wagging of her elongated tail, showing off her true excitement
Nova had been taken aback by the sight of the museum and the humongous statue before her. While she was sure that Sunset would have been a bit embarrassed to be put on a literal pedestal like this, she also was glad to see that Equestria fully recognized the deeds she's done to aid them all. A smile came across the mare's face.
Nova: Incredible… y'know, looking up at her like this… heh it's like I'm a little filly again back at Celestia's school.
She looked back to Twilight
Nova: Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go in!! Come on, Sparkle!
She practically rushed up the stairs leading to the entrance. While Twilight knew Nova to be more reserved or cold, there were times like this where she'd show a more genuine excitement, mostly when it came to topics that fascinated her.
Twilight initially reached a hoof as if to tell Nova to slow down, but she sighs and smiles. She knew this was something of immense personal interest. And she knew by now there was no slowing Nova down from this. She follows Nova towards the receptionist' desk. The receptionist had known two ponies had paid for an all-exclusive tour of the museum that would be only for them. But had not been aware of who the two ponies were, she greets Nova like any other visitor with a warm smile though as Twilight comes up behind her she gasps. The benevolent ruler of Equestria was walking towards her desk! And she could hardly contain her glee.
Twilight: Two tickets for the museum, please!
Receptionist: O-o-of course, your majesty!
The receptionist bows and quickly brings out two tickets, stamping both of them. Twilight's been here a number of times already. Though the receptionist certainly still couldn't resist her usual line.
Receptionist: Enjoy the museum! And remember our motto, before every Twilight... there is a Sunset!
Nova can't help but roll her eyes as the receptionist's tone changes the moment she sees Twilight. But she wasn't about to let it change the fact that she was now in the museum. It's because of Twilight that they'd have the museum to themselves, so she was grateful for it. Already she could see some exhibits that caught her eye, things Sunset may have mentioned in classes from long ago. To her this was both an extensive history lesson and a deeper dive into one of the ponies she truly looked up to. She takes her ticket with a smile, practically ready to zoom off again when she hears the museum motto from the receptionist. She froze in place before slowly looking back at Twilight with an incredulous expression.
Nova: Really? REALLY? Ugh... and here I thought you weren't one with a large ego…
She says, assuming Twilight was the one who came up with the motto.
Nova: Come on 'your highness' we've got some history to learn!
Whenever Nova had addressed Twilight with her title, it was always with sarcasm but that was not mutually exclusive to Twilight, she was like that when referring to Celestia for a time as well.
Twilight waves her hoof as if to both metaphorically and physically wash away Nova’s accusations
Twilight: Hey, don't look at me! I didn't choose the motto. I too had some concerns that it may be fluffing me up too much. But both Firelight and Stellar Flare insisted that it made an excellent double meaning. Not just Sunset paving the path for me to take charge one day, but an insight on the change from day to night and vice versa that Equestria has become accustomed to during Celestia and Luna's reign.
Trust me when I say that I take no egotistical pleasure from this…
Nova: Yeah well.... ngh… alright, fair enough I guess... I should have figured you wouldn't have come up with that, sorry...
She says in a flustered tone
Nova: It's still too cheesy though! I do hope they at least ran it by Sunset's spirit!
Twilight: I promise you that even I feel Sunset's sacrifices lord over all of my personal accomplishments combined. She deserved to be a Princess more than I did. I'm certain of that even to this day. But she declined that opportunity, in hopes that she could raise a family in peace.
Nova nods at Twilight's claim
Nova: True, she was better than any of us. Fully deserving of the crown and the responsibility that comes with it. I don't know if I could have made the same choice if given the opportunity, then again... that's not really a scenario that would ever come into fruition. Of course, knowing what I know now... I can't blame her one bit for giving it all up...
She pauses for a moment
Nova: You know, it's strange, back then we never got any explanation for why she just suddenly left. But the impact it made on the school and on me, it was staggering. Like the spirit of everyone left with her...
She shakes her head and sighs
Nova: So you've got a lot to live up to! If you want your future museum to be anything like this, you better start racking up some more historical accomplishments!
She grins, knowing full well what Twilight has accomplished over the years along with her friends, but this was Nova's odd way of trying to connect with her.
Nova: Slow down now and some of us will surpass you sooner than you think!
Twilight: I'd like to think historical accomplishments don't always mean immediate change. An accomplishment that stands the test of time can be thoroughly judged for its impact. I started the School of Friendship as a long game strategy to change the world, though not even I expected it to unite those outside of Equestria quickly enough to help repel the trio of Chrysalis, Tirek, and Cozy at the same time. But it came in clutch, and will continue to pay dividends in the future. Especially with my faithful student, and Sunset's only heir, Starlight Glimmer as the school's headmare.
Nova: I will admit it's because of your openness to the other species of this world, I can go out and about without needing to hide my tail in public so I can thank you for that. Plus, the better relations with the neighboring nations has allowed ponies like me to go explore more freely to do research. It's not like it was impossible to do before, but it's far more manageable now.
Though to be honest, I still fail to see why you need a school for a concept like friendship, but then again you're literally the princess of said concept, so I don't really have room to judge there, heh. And it'd be very remiss of me to not mention what you've been able to do with Sunset's daughter as a protégé. At least from what you've told me. I'm sure if she's anything like Sunset was, she'll do just fine.
She says with a genuine smile, Twilight nods and smiles back
Twilight: Besides the School of Friendship, I hope someday I will have guided Starlight to earn her wings, too. So at least in some way, Sunset’s legacy still found a way to take it’s rightful place on the throne. I’d be far happier to have brought that into full circle at last, then any pride in my own accomplishments.
Nova's eyes widened at this revelation
Nova: Oh, so she'll be becoming an alicorn someday too? I know Sunset must be proud of her. Sunset deserved to get her wings… it's a shame she could never get the chance...
She sighs for a moment but smirks when she thinks of Starlight's potential ascension.
Nova: Seems I'll have yet another alicorn that I'll have to try and match up to. I can't let myself fall behind now! Somepony's gotta keep you alicorns on your hooves, might as well be me!
Twilight nods as the two continue walking, before they know it. They’ve reached the first exhibits Nova taking in the sights to a whole place dedicated to her lifelong idol.
The early parts of the museum are more focused on Sunset's early life, some displays on how she met Celestia and became her student. Even with these things that some might have found mundane, Nova took it all in with pride. She darted back and forth, showing off that more excited and inspired side that Twilight didn't get to see much of. Something that did catch her eye was further ahead, a holographic display of Sunset which seemed to be talking about the displays.
Nova: Ooh, I wasn't aware that some more advanced things like holographic displays would be used here.
Twilight nods her head
Twilight: Ah yes, this was the sort of magic technology that Stellar Flare was more than happy to bring to the museum. While the design of the building would be to Firelight's more historically preserved standards, he allowed Stellar to include many modern enhancements that would spice up museum visits.
That includes magical A.I. such as this hologram. There are two modes to it, the one currently on is the per display tour where you can optionally have 'Sunset' give commentary on each section of the museum as you go through it. The other… is a grand full tour where 'Sunset' will lead you throughout the museum, The commentary will be on auto-pilot as opposed to the manual option, though visitors have the full freedom to tell 'Sunset' to let them stay in one area longer and/or lead them to the next exhibit
The prospect of being led on a tour by Sunset made Nova's eyes light up, her tail swished back and forth excitedly.
Nova: REALLY?! AHHH!! PLEASE TELL ME WE GET TO DO THAT!
She blurted out loud. The echo of her voice drowned out all other sound, even the A.I. silenced for a moment. It was a good thing they were the only two there, but she was still embarrassed by this. It looks as if she'd chided herself internally before clearing her throat and tries to compose herself. A trick she would do when she starts to ramble on or get too excited over something.
Nova: A-an advanced A.I. huh? I should look into it for my lab, see if I can't tweak it enough to be more like a security system. B-b-but the option to be led by Sunset through her own museum is too good of an offer to pass up!
Twilight: Of course, allow me to turn off the manual mode, and I'll turn on the auto mode.
Twilight presses a button that deactivates the manual commentary. And while Nova can't see it from her angle, Twilight pretends to press the auto button. But doesn't actually press it, but all the same what seems to be a transparent glowing Sunset comes out from behind a curtain. It smiles and walks on over to the visitors. 'Sunset’ begins to speak, with a noticeable echo.
‘Sunset’: Greetings visitors, welcome to the Sunset Shimmer museum. I will be your spiritual guide to my life, and may you learn of my triumphs... as well as my tragedies.
Nova can hardly contain herself, practically bouncing in place. Even though this was a hologram, to her it was just a delight to hear Sunset's voice again after so long. Like when she looked up at the statue of her outside, that feeling she had from when she was a filly came flooding back to her.
Nova: Please, lead the way, Ms. Shimmer! Er… Sunset A.I. I mean. Hahaha, geez, it's like my mind jumped back to the school days. (I really need to control myself here, I cannot make myself look like a fool just because I'm excited!)
A spotlight shines on an old photograph of Sunset's birth, showing younger versions of her parents
‘Sunset’: I was born to Morning Shine and Glistening Dream. My mother, Morning Shine, was a high-ranking unicorn officer in the guard, and my father, Glistening Dream, was a brilliant unicorn scientist. They currently still live to this day in peaceful retirement at the paradise that is Silver Shoals
Nova: Parents, huh...
The two in the photo look quite happy, Nova looks at the picture and thinks for a moment
Nova: Wait… Glistening Dream was her father? The whole science wing of the school was named after him for his research on magical artifacts and their uses among other things! And her mom was a guard… what a lineage to live up to. (I have to wonder how they took the news about Sunset… of course with the dragon tear, they can speak with her when they desire. Must be nice to have that kind of relationship…) Can you describe the next display, Sunset A.I.?
The next display is about Sunset's upbringing and early childhood.
‘Sunset’: These are pictures and/or toys related to my time when I was in Magic Kindergarten. I had just turned 3 when I began to astound both teachers and classmates alike at how fast I was learning. The combination of my father's smarts with the quick decisiveness of my mother made a combination that was quite noticeable even for as young as I was. It wasn't long before my parents were thinking of enrolling me in Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns.
It was quite difficult for Nova to not let out a squeeing noise when she saw the pictures of young Sunset. But it was clear she found them all quite adorable.
Nova: An early bloomer, why am I not surprised? (Granted, that was kind of a trait I despised in other ponies back then... But I never got the vibe from Ms. Shimmer that she was lording her power over anypony else. It's probably why I liked her so much, she was an exception to the other early bloomers I'd known.)
The next display to be spotlighted was of Sunset's entrance exam. A photo of a determined little filly can be seen with some other assorted items
‘Sunset’: My entrance exam was a wonder upon wonders, the display of power I showed almost seemed a bit dangerous for the judges. Ever since then, they made sure to keep the judges a good distance away from the testing students.
Twilight briefly remembers the distance the judges were. Probably was a good thing too, as otherwise they may have been turned into plants just as her parents had for a brief time.
‘Sunset’: Some of the debris that resulted from my entrance exam is in fact here displayed at the museum. I did not have to hatch a dragon egg nor was it the usual standardized testing given to most potential enrollees, I was simply asked to perform my magic at the highest raw power I could muster at that age. Princess Celestia herself was even in attendance, as she had heard of an up and coming filly that peaked her interest.
In the photo, way in the back a glimpse of Celestia watching Sunset performing her magic can be seen. Even by just this photo, it was very evident Celestia was already well impressed in this frame forever captured in time.
Looking at Sunset's entrance exam makes her think of her own
Nova: You know, I always found the panel to be so nerve wracking, it's a lot of pressure to put on a foal! I dunno about you, Sparkle, but they always struck me as very judgmental. I mean yeah that's their job but it felt so cold!
She looked at the debris on display and chuckled
Nova: This would explain why they went for a more varied approach by the time I was entering the school. Probably didn't want anyone else to get blasted. Though I have to wonder if my test fell under the normal standardized testing or if it was a unique one. I didn't have to do any of the dragon hatching stuff either. I had to bring a rare plant back to life with magic. They gave me a week to prepare for it as well. Thankfully the method I went with had worked.
She looked back to Twilight
Nova: They didn't expect me to know about how to combine earth pony farming techniques with a magically charged crystal. Of course, unlike Sunset here, I don't think Celestia was there to watch.
I believe you told me that you had to do the egg hatching thing right? That's how you brought Spike into this world, I know that much. I mean I was wandering through town at the time and then seeing the giant rainbow in the sky followed by a dragon bursting out of the school! It's kinda hard to forget. (Though I remember it more for… other reasons.) For just a moment, she does shoot a glare at Twilight before shaking her head (No… what happened isn't her fault, I know that now.)
...Now that I think about it, why were the tests randomized like that? Were they catering to the students ahead of time or were they already aware of the latent potential in some of the ponies? You spent a lot of time around Celestia, did she ever give you an answer?
Twilight: I didn't know until close to 5 years ago. Apparently, Celestia had been given Spike's egg by a younger Malakhar in Saddle Arabia along with a deceased mother dragon. When Celestia took it back home, she had a strange dream where a voice, that seemed to be most likely the spirit of the dragon from beyond the grave, to grant the egg its perfect mother, as well as Celestia's next student. And well, the stars apparently aligned for it to be me of all ponies.
I kinda hate retelling this story, as I don't like to sound as if I was some conceited chosen one destined for greatness. I know you've held such feelings before about me, and out of context I imagine that's how exactly it sounds. But magic works in mysterious ways in Equestria after all, Starlight found out the hard way how important it was that I met the other elements of harmony for example. She too thought I had an ego about myself and my friends' importance to the safety of Equestria.
Nova: Given all of the crazy things life has put in front of you, it's hard to not get that idea. Think about it, the leader of our nation was told in a dream that you would be the prime candidate to not only hatch the egg, but eventually succeed her? I mean, how do you think it feels? And then to add on top of that, you've gone and beaten down more dangerous villains, and became a genie too! And it all just so happened within a relatively short time frame!
Nova takes a deep breath
Nova: I won't lie, part of me is still bitter, holding onto that resentment from childhood. After Sunset left, we were all striving to be Celestia's next personal student. Some of us for noble reasons, others not so much. I remember working to the bone trying to keep up with the rest of the class or find ways to jump ahead. I can still hear my mother berating me for not being good enough to get the spot. I'll admit, my own reasons for wanting the positions could be seen as selfish too.
I wanted to be just like Sunset, she was always so kind and encouraging to us, even to someone who shouldn't have been in that school like me. On top of that, I wanted Celestia's admiration too. But even with all that hard work, we get told that not only would none of us qualify, but a first year would be taking the spot? It hurt, I don't have the raw magical power like you, Starlight or Sunset have. I thought I did everything right, but I'd leave the school soon after anyway, so who knows what could have been.
But I also don't think you should feel ashamed in retelling your story. None of us get to choose how fate works, even if as a scientist, the idea of our own destinies not being in our control infuriates me. What happened to myself and anyone else isn't your fault. Look, you earned that crown and those wings. It doesn't matter what 'destiny' chose for you. You went and made it your own.
She smirked
Nova: I don't see you as the one who ruined my life anymore, but I'll still be working to best you.
Twilight smiles, thankful for Nova's grown maturity over the past few years. Soon the tour continues as the next display is lit up. It's about Celestia's early days as Celestia's student. Adorable pictures of Celestia with a filly Sunset could be seen all across the wall.
'Sunset': These are all memories of my first years under Celestia's tutelage. For a while, she was almost like a foalsitter or even another mother for me. While we still did serious training when needed, she still let me be a filly and play at the castle. The many toys you see here at the display were the actual toys I played with back in the day!
And... if you notice a very burnt jack-in-the-box... let's just say that was the result of a nightmare night prank meant to try to spook a young me. Heh heh.
Seeing more of a young Sunset makes it even harder for Nova to not squeal, after her outburst earlier, she's trying her best to reign in her enthusiasm. The mention of Celestia being a caretaker or even a second mother makes her eyes twitch for a moment. After what she'd just told Twilight, she can't help but feel jealous for a moment. But it also makes something click in Nova's mind.
Nova: Huh well look at that, seems you were following in Sunset's hoofsteps in that regard as well. An alicorn caretaker! Sheesh, I never had a chance then! All of them were taken up! (How could I have ever hoped to compete with that...?)
Upon looking at the jack-in-the-box, Nova whistled
Nova: Wow, she really trashed this thing! I don't recall any of us trying to pull a prank on Ms. Shimmer but I definitely wouldn't have wanted to be on the receiving end of that blast
The next section highlighted was about Sunset's camaraderie with classmates. In particular of note, were more photographs of a young Sunset and a young white unicorn with a mane cut similar to Twilight's.
‘Sunset’: This section depicts the relationship I had with my fellow classmates. I was the top student, but at least as a filly I still had plenty of time to socialize and get to know them. Sometimes helping them out if they were struggling with an assignment.
I particularly connected with a white unicorn by the name of Twilight Velvet. None of my fellow classmates had quite my potential, but I could tell Velvet had some hidden innate ability in her. She just had trouble bringing it out, and I assisted in helping her discover a great portion of her hidden power. If she wanted to, she could have very well become a great mage.
However, she would decide to live a more humble life despite her latent potential. But that potential was far from wasted. As Twilight Velvet would give birth to Princess Twilight Sparkle, as well as Prince Shining Armor who'd himself father Princess Flurry Heart.
This section provides something of a smile from Twilight. She hadn't even known her mother knew or was even friends with Sunset back in the day. She completely understood why she hid it though for the same reasons Firelight hid her from Starlight. Those most personally close to Sunset wanted to respect her wishes for privacy after she stepped down as Celestia's protege.
Now that it was safe to leave it all in the open though, Twilight can be more proud of her mother than ever before. And learn some context about how she herself had tons of magic potential even prior to her transformation into a genie and/or an Alicorn princess. And with her relationship with Starlight, the bonds of their friendship clearly have continued into the next generation. It's enough for Twilight's eyes to well up in joyful tears just thinking about it, no matter how many times she's visited this museum
Nova: Twilight… Velvet?
Nova thinks for a moment, the name and the look of the mare seeming familiar to her. When the 'A.I.' mentioned what she'd done, it clicked.
Nova: Oh wow, now I know who she is. Ms. Shimmer would bring her in for some magic lessons from time to time! Funny, looking at her like this, it's obvious she's your mom.
You two could be mistaken for twins, well you could have been at some point anyway. I had no idea then, but of course in the few times I did see her, you hadn't been around yet, Sparkle.
Nova has a small smile on her face as she recalls those days
Nova: Hm… didn't think I actually had that many fond memories of school. I didn't realize your mom had hidden potential within her either. Bet you're pretty proud of her huh?
Twilight nods.
Twilight: Yeah, obviously most of these memories depicted were from long before she even met my dad. And although my hime cut is pretty iconic for me. It wasn't even all that unique for Canterlot hairstyles. Ponies like my mom, and Moondancer had it without my influence.
I suppose it has become more popular than ever since I became a Princess, though.
Heh, I wonder if my mom became something of a daredevil partly because of Sunset's own adventurous personality. I have to imagine the two went on some crazy adventures at some point. Hm, come to think of it... my Mom did write a good amount of adventure stories. Even winning the Daring Do award for at least one of her book series. It's quite possible her stories were inspired by some of her days with Sunset. Although she certainly changed the names to be entirely fictional as to not entirely give away it was her and Sunset.
Nova: Oh believe me I know, I can't go through Canterlot anymore without seeing somepony with your manestyle. It's not like it's a bad style, but it's clear ponies want to emulate you. Guess it's because with Celestia and Luna it was pretty much impossible to get that flowy mane look.
She chuckles and jokes around
Nova: Don't you worry though, you won't be catching me trying to steal your manestyle.
And I've read some of your mother’s adventure novels, they're all pretty good. Hehe, I wouldn't be surprised if they were based on some real life experiences!
She let out another laugh but also sighed after. This talk about parents, Nova couldn't help but think of her own and it made her bristle. But this wasn't about her right now and she didn't want it to distract from the tour that the Sunset A.I. was giving. Glancing over at said A.I. it felt surreal, just getting to walk alongside her once again but now that she was getting a closer look something seemed off. Something she hadn't thought about until now.
Nova: Huh… that's strange...
She starts to circle around the A.I. as if she's looking for something specific.
As Nova walks around 'Sunset', the A.I. almost seems to react a bit nervously before stopping itself. And politely asking.
‘Sunset’: What is it, visitor? Would you like me to pause the tour, or lead you to the next exhibit?
Nova: No don't worry, this will only take a moment...
She continues to circle around before stopping next to Twilight
Nova: The Sunset A.I. is modeled after her or I at least assume you got her spirit to be a model to get the most up to date look. So why does it seem....
Her eyes narrowed for a moment as she looked down at Sunset before exclaiming
Nova: I've got it! I know what's been throwing me off this whole time, I hadn't realized it before and I know it must be silly, but the two of us are actually taller in comparison to Sunset!
She laughs
Nova: I thought maybe the sizing or something was off but that's also my brain jumping back and forth between my memories and now. The last time I saw her in person was when she was much bigger than me after all. Plus since you and I are taller than average mares, I must've just assumed she'd be as well being Celestia's former student and all. I thought she might have gotten some magical boost like at a pre-alicorn level or something. to make her taller. Sorry, I didn't mean to pause, it's just one of those minute details that would have bothered me otherwise. Please continue the tour!
Twilight tilted her head, and raised an eyebrow.
Twilight: I... guess so? She did die pretty young though. She had been close to my age from 5 years ago when her tragic death happened. As such her default form is as she was in those final years of her life. Most spirits' default form are the age they died, though they certainly have the ability to turn back the clock and make themselves look like their younger selves if they want to. Just of course, sadly for Sunset... there isn't a lot of years to change between.
But yes, the hologram is meant to look just like Sunset's spirit form as we normally see her.
As Twilight was explaining and getting Nova's attention, what is supposedly the AI expresses a quiet
‘Sunset’: Phew...
Before it sits back up straight.
Nova: Like I said, I know it's silly to have thought about it. But since we've been here my mind just goes back to how I last saw her. She was always someone I looked up to literally and emotionally. Seeing the statue out front, thinking about old memories, it really put me back in that headspace. And seeing the hologram, it makes me face the passage of time in a way I hadn't considered before. So much has happened from then to now for all of us.
She shakes her head
Nova: But enough of that, let's continue on! This section is something I've been waiting for!!
‘Sunset’: Alright, next up... is the largest section in the museum. All dedicated to my heroics, adventures, and travels from my pre-teen years to the late teens. Records of the villains I've fought, brought to justice, and/or reformed. Documents of negotiations I was involved with by Celestia's side. Facts about the wild animals I survived encounters with. And souvenirs from all around the world that came from many places outside of Equestria that I've been to.
Please, take your time going through. This will have an extended timer on the tour due to this section's size before we proceed to the sections depicting my family, and my final years alive.
The 'A.I.' leads them into a much larger hall filled with photos, artifacts and even models of Equestrian monsters and villains alike. Nova's eyes lit up and she couldn't stop her tail from wagging. She darted back and forth between things she'd recognized or had been told about. Any exhibit about Equestria's creatures fascinating her greatly
Nova: Aaaaaahhhh oh my god, this is a sample of a Grootslang!! I had no clue she'd gone up against one of these. You can only find them in Farasi as far as I'm aware! Oooh!! look, look! These are Roc feathers! Just look at the massive size of one of these! Is that a model of a kelpie over there too?!
For just a moment, she was like a filly in a candy store, when she realized that she might be going a bit too overboard, she stops herself and clears her throat. (Dammit, I lost myself in my excitement again…)
Uh… heheh m-maybe I should let the A.I. do the tour
Twilight smiles, though assures Nova she's free to explore
Twilight: Don't worry, as the hologram said there's a lot more time to look at things here. Though the hologram does have something of another function here. With so much to look at, you're free to ask it to elaborate about any individual part of this section if you so wish. It should have something to say for just about everything here
Nova: Oh is that right? Excellent! Well then uh…
She scans around for something she may not know about or at least only has a limited knowledge on. Eventually something does catch her eye, a rather large changeling in a display case. He looked more menacing than Queen Chrysalis ever did.
Nova: Who… who exactly is this? I've never seen a changeling like him before.
She looked around for a plaque or something that would at least state his name but there's nothing, only a display. "Sunset A.I. can you elaborate on this display?"
'Sunset: Certainly, visitor. I'd be happy t-
The 'A.I.' oddly seems to freeze mid-sentence, pupils shrink as Nova chooses THAT one of all of the displays to highlight. Odd behavior for an A.I.
Twilight acts quickly to try to excuse the odd response.
Twilight: Oh! Aheh heh... looks like a bit of a glitch in the system. This IS newer technology we're dealing with after all!
Twilight's excuse gives the A.I. time to fix itself and attempt to say as much as it can with a straight face.
‘Sunset’: Ah... yes... him... this... this is none other than Tarsus the Terrible. He was once one of the leaders of an old changeling hive. But he was an awful tyrant that was confrontational with most of the other leaders. He was determined to spread the changeling hive into an empire of his own making. And... he was willing to sacrifice anyone who stood in his way. Even his own family... and his own race...
Suddenly the 'A.I.' seems to turn away, staring at the wall. Eyes unblinking, a hologram nor a spirit should need to breathe but it almost looked like it was hyperventilating anyway.
Twilight frowns once again, she once again tries to make the same excuse from earlier
Twilight: Oh gosh, it's glitching up again! I'll... contact Stellar that this part of the display needs to be fine-tuned. How about selecting a different display for it to cover, Nova?
Nova's eyes narrowed. The way the "glitch" happened would have made sense… if the A.I. didn't change her expression while doing it. But she also thought it could be more advanced, capable of showing emotions similar to how Sunset would react. Either way, Nova was now more suspicious of this but she was given the answer to her question eventually.
Nova: Tarsus… hmm he makes Chrysalis sound benevolent by comparison. Going so far as to destroy his own kind… tch, another power hungry type. Strange that I've never seen any history books on him before but there's still a lot we have to learn about Changeling history... Hm?
Nova turns back when Sunset has another "glitch" and starts to hyperventilate.
Nova: (Alright, this isn't normal behavior for an A.I. glitch or no glitch. Is Twilight hiding something from me? Why would she though? I'll keep a closer eye on this A.I. for now.)
Sure...glitches are bound to happen... Sunset A.I. Why don't you tell me more about this display here? If I'm correct, it shows your first time helping Celestia out with her school.
Her eyes were now locked onto ‘Sunset’, looking to see if she'd display any more odd behavior.
As the ‘A.I.’ is still turned away it gives her some opportunity to attempt to save face. Not turning to face Nova or Twilight until the normally neutral expression is back on her face.
‘Sunset’: Oh! That display is about my many return trips to Celestia's school, when I would be tasked with visiting Celestia's new generation of gifted unicorns. I enjoyed seeing and occasionally teaching all the little prodigies some tricks they could do with their magic. It warmed my heart to see a smile on every one of their faces.
Nova: Oh yes, you or at least the real you was always delighted to teach us new skills. I paid attention to everything you'd told us, and in turn we'd sometimes teach you new ways to… to...
In the photograph, there were actually some faces of the fillies that Nova could very well recognize. Gasping, she wonders if maybe, just maybe...
Sure enough, she can catch a glimpse of herself as a filly in her seat farther in the back. Sitting attentively with a beaming grin as Sunset addresses the entire class.
Nova freezes as she looks closer at the picture of her own class… and there she was, smiling away. Even if it's a bit hard to notice, she can see the large rounded glasses she used to wear as well as the braces she once had. Seeing this picture, in Sunset's museum of all places, it filled her with different emotions.
She covered her mouth with her hoof, letting out a strained laugh which also sounded like she was about to cry.
Nova: That's… me… a picture of my class was… was important enough to.... (We were so happy to be taught by her back then… even with the rough home life there was still hope in our eyes that we could carve a better future…)
Her focus had fully broken from Sunset 'A.I' as she tried to keep herself composed.
As Nova was drawn to the picture of her class. Sunset turned to Twilight, giving her a wink. Indicating a signal that she was ready. As Nova continued to stare at the photo. She could hear a voice, briefly wondering if she was getting a flashback through a sudden daydream.
Sunset: Please raise your hooves, if you have any more questions for me, class!
Nova's ears perked up at attention when she heard Sunset's voice, though it didn't sound as 'artificial' as the 'A.I' was trying to sound before. A corner in each of her eyes seems to water up as she truly hears her hero's voice for the first time in a long time. Twilight and Sunset could see that Nova was indeed about to raise a hoof too, but she stopped herself. However, she clearly was shaken by the change in tone as she turned around.
Nova: M-ms. Shimmer?!
She blinks for a moment, seeing only Twilight and the 'A.I.' which confuses her for a moment.
Nova: (There's no way…)
She gulped nervously and went along with this act, now choosing to raise her hoof. Things were now making more sense in her mind, but she had to be sure.
Nova: Are… are you the real Sunset?
The spirit of the great hero nods and smiles.
Sunset: It's good to see you again... Nova…
Nova: AHHHH!! I KNEW IT!!
Her voice echoes through the hall but she no longer cares about embarrassing herself I… I knew that was no glitch earlier! You're… you're really...
Nova can hardly hold herself together. This was the one mare whom she'd respected for her entire life, getting to see her again after all these years, she can't help but cry.
Nova: I knew about spirit summoning, b-but I didn't think you'd ever want to see a former student like myself…
She wipes some tears from her eyes before looking to Twilight.
Nova: This was your idea, wasn't it? You suck… so much… but thank you...
To Twilight's own surprise, Nova actually hugs her
Nova: I won't… I won't forget this, Twilight.
Twilight beams a smile, slightly giggling. She gladly returns Nova's hug.
Twilight: Could just be Pinkie's influence on me. I wanted to surprise you as much as possible!
Nova: I'll get you back for this one, Sparkle! Just you wait!
She tries to sound like her normal self but with that wide grin and the tears in her eyes, it's hard to take her seriously. Her focus quickly shifts over to Sunset. Seeing her spirit for the first time, it was almost overwhelming. All she could do for the first moments was just smile at her, she clearly wanted to say something but she was stunned.
After a few moments passed, Nova had looked off to the side, as if someone else had spoken to her before she took a deep breath to calm down.
Nova: So... miss ‘A.I.’ heheh… I can't believe you got me with that… I really never thought I'd see you again, Ms. Shimmer… I dunno what Twilight has told you about me but we've got a bit of catching up to do.... I-I did take your techniques to heart! My magic is definitely leagues better than what it was back then!"
Sunset: That's wonderful, Nova. I'm glad my brief moments of giving lessons were of great use to you. And you've grown so tall. You stand nearly a head bigger than me! What ingredients did you include in your growth formula? Heh heh
Sunset snickers from her light-hearted joke
Nova: You kidding? You and Celestia we're the only ones wanting to push me to be the best I could be! Where I was during those days, I needed it more than you could've known... (Even if I did go down a darker path when I left the school…) That's why it hurt so much when you left. But I do understand why you did what you did, so don't think for a second that I'm mad at you.
She laughs a bit more nervously about the comment on her height.
Nova: Hahaha yeah… would you believe me if the height was more of a bonus and not the intended result?" She wagged her elongated tail in front of Sunset
Like I said, we have a LOT to discuss.
Sunset notices the tail, and instantly recognizes it as being similar to that of a tatzlwurm. Which funnily enough, was another of the creature models found here.
Sunset: Is that... a Tatzl tail? Heh, I admit I have some memories of some close calls with them. I was nearly eaten by newborn Tatzlwurms fresh out of their eggs... I survived thanks to using a stink spell that made it feel like I was indigestible. The babies were fine though.
Twilight herself kinda grimaces at the thought of Taztlwurms. She and Cadence had been attacked by them, she was a genie at the time so there wasn't too much trouble repelling the giant worms. But it still wasn't pleasant being near those jaws.
Nova: Oh! You do recognize it! Heh, but of course you would. It is indeed a tatzl tail! It may not have been how I wanted the experiment that caused it to go but I've come to love it all the same.
She looks back at her tail with a smile.
Nova: Yes they are quite carnivorous, operating purely on instinct but they can actually become quite useful when befriended. I find the tatzls to be greatly misunderstood beauties. Those large, powerful bodies, the split jaws with their tendrils that can dart out in a flash and their burrowing capabilities just to name a few traits! But of course the same could be said for all of those deemed to be 'monsters'. I've taken it upon myself to research and catalog every creature known or unknown in Equestria and beyond. But that's always been the case, even back when I was still in your class.
Sunset: That's quite interesting! I'd love to see what you've cataloged thus far some day, see if you've come across what I've seen in my many adventures. And of course any new ones that I never discovered.
Nova: R-really? I'd love to show you everything I've discovered! Had I known I'd be seeing you, I would've brought my journals! More than that though, I'd love to run a few experiments with you as well! ....er. if we get the chance of course, I don't want to rob you of your time with your loved ones or anything like that.
She scratches the back of her head
Nova: (I do have a specific experiment that I want to try... But I don't know if Sparkle would let me if I mention it)
Sunset: That sounds wonderful, next time we meet you can plan with Spike, Starlight, and/or Twilight to set up some time for us to see eachother again. Or, next time my daughter summons me with Spike's dragon tear, she could bring me down to Canterlot and just visit you with just the three of us.
Anyhow, now that I don't have to copy the mannerisms of the A.I. we can continue through the Museum like normal if you'd like. And although this was Twilight's plan for the most part. This isn't even the first time I've done that to ponies. I particularly love doing this trick on Nightmare Night here at the museum, when you really think about it... it's fun to be the spooky ghost sometimes. OoooooOOOOOoooooooOOOOOO!
Sunset waves her hooves around with a mischievous smile pretending to be a stereotypical scary ghost. Though it just looks cute with her pony appearance.
Nova's tail wags excitedly
Nova: Yes that would be an absolute blast! I've been working with the dragon tear myself and I'd love to show you my discoveries! And while I have not personally met Starlight yet, from what Sparkle here has told me, she would probably not object to some experimentation
She grins from ear to ear. This more bubbly side of Nova is quite the rare sight, being around Sunset, it's almost like she's a filly again, looking to impress her teacher.
Nova: Oooh, going for a haunted museum vibe? No offense, Ms. Shimmer, you can't spook anypony with the cute ghost approach! If you really wanna sell it, you've gotta try possessing some of the displays or some of the ponies! Hehehehe maybe call in some other spirits too, have them join in on the fun!
Sunset: Awww, but Nova... being cute AND spooky is part of the fun! In fact... Why don't I become even cuter!
Sunset closes her eyes and her spirit fades into a glowing white silhouette. The spirit starts to shrink, and before both Twilight and Nova's syes. Sunset was now a spirit of her filly self from back in the day, just as cute if not cuter then what was seen in the photographs from earlier. Sunset even beams a big grin and her eyes shine like a puppy's to flourish her cuteness. Twilight can't even resist awww'ing at Sunset's small form herself.
Nova's eyes widen as she watches Sunset shrink down. It was a complete role reversal now, Sunset was the filly and Nova was the adult.
Nova: Oh… oh my Luna… SHE'S SO ADORABLE!!
Her tail wagged even faster now as she tried to rush up and hug her. Her hooves slipped through the ghostly frame but she didn't care. Sunset meanwhile playfully closes her eyes and sticks her tongue out.
Nova: Look at how precious she is, Sparkle! Look at this face! I didn't even know spirits could control how they looked! Well I can certainly say you'd be giving patrons heart attacks, but not from fear! It would be from a cuteness overload!
After Nova's attempt at nuzzling the tiny Sunset, she stands up, trying to compose herself. Though she's still just as giddy from this burst of cuteness from Sunset.
Nova: Heheh look at us, it's like I'm the teacher now! Are you ready for your first lesson, Ms. Shimmer?
The smaller Sunset giggles, and even her voice has become higher pitched to match her younger appearance
Sunset: Careful now! I was a wild child in my most youthful days~. Wasn't just satisfied with being the top student, I was a pretty good prankster that messed around with the more snippy teachers. It endeared me to the other classmates, sometimes I swear some of my ol' teachers only tolerated me because I always had the best grades... plus my status as Princess Celestia's protege.
She winks as she then begins to fly around Nova fast, the small spirit from her hips on down a ghostly tail. Making Nova dizzy as she tries to keep track of Sunset. Eventually, stopping in front of Nova's face crossing her hooves, a smug smirk on her face and her ghostly tail half waving slowly below her
Sunset: Hehehe, I did this alot with Princess Celestia too for fun using the flight via self levitation spell. Unlike some of the teachers there, she loved it whenever I was having fun like that.
Twilight: Heh, that sure sounds like Celestia. Especially on her attitude towards the Grand Galloping Gala.
Nova: Heh not a surprise, outside of you and maybe a few others, the teachers were always sticks in the mud!
Nova tried to follow Sunset's movements, but only found herself falling to the floor in dizziness.
Nova: Oof… you know… I never could make the self levitation thing work. I mean I know most unicorns can't but that doesn't mean I wanted to give up. As for the gala? Psh, the gala always was awful, just a bunch of snobby ponies trying to elevate their own status. Hah, I remember always either sitting in the corner waiting for it to end or just wandering off. So I see nothing wrong with spicing it up!
She snickers as she stands back up.
Twilight: Yeah, not even I could get a real hang of self-levitation before I was a genie outside of when my magic went haywire at my entrance exam. It frankly blew my mind when I saw Starlight was capable of it when I saw her do so when we were traveling through time. Though now I know who she inherited it from, and it makes perfect sense now.
Sunset then sinks herself to the ground and turns her ghostly tail back into her hindlegs and tail. Before closing her eyes, and regaining her adult form from before.
Sunset: Self-levitation spell is impressive on the outside, and with enough practice a lot of fun to use. But at the same time... it's not always the most practical choice of spell, because it does take a lot of focus to maintain it for a lengthy amount of time. Not to mention things can go badly when combining it with even the most simple spells if you're inexperienced with it, such as when things went haywire in Fi-Fi's basement when Starlight got her cutie mark. Self-levitation is like lifting your own body weight, most can only do it in small bunches of time but you eventually lose your grip. Which is why sometimes unicorn babies can do it with ease but then lose the ability to later.
Nova: Unfortunately the power required and the ability to carry one's own weight are major factors. I might be physically capable, but my magic still isn't enough. But you two already know that.
Nova sighs and scratches the back of her head.
Nova: I know it's not the most practical. When I've… done experiments with flight, wings clearly win out each time. But still I'd love to fly like that too… someday.
But anyway… Now we can continue the tour on a more personal level! I hope you won't mind, but I may still be asking a few questions along the way. Though if it's something too painful, you can just skip on it. I know what section we're about to get to...
Sunset assumes Nova is referring to the section about her death and sighs.
Sunset: No... no worries. I've long come to terms with my death. Especially now that I can be summoned down whenever my family and/or friends find it convenient to. Even though I can walk around in Equestria any time I'm summoned back down, this museum is still for all intents and purposes supposed to be in memoriam for me. Museums dedicated to all deceased and/or missing historical figures must inevitably cover their ultimate fates. I've gotten used enough to talking about the events that would ultimately end my life...
As weird as it sounds, it's not the displays about my death that haunts me most out of this place... it's another display... and you probably remember which one that was, since I almost blew my cover when you asked me to talk about it...
Twilight nods
Twilight: We understand, it was obviously a very painful memory for you. Even spirits can still have PTSD about some awful moments in their life. We know that much.
Nova gives Sunset a more understanding look. She tries to put a hoof on Sunset's shoulder but she's aware it wouldn't connect.
Nova: Of course, it must still be odd to speak about even if you're able to be here alongside us now. But to think that the things you experience in life can still haunt you when you pass, it's like something out of a horror novel. But if that's what haunts you…
She looks back to the display of Tarsus
Nova: ...it must have been a truly awful experience, but I won't press the issue further." (It won't stop me from looking into it myself though. It's a good thing evil spirits can't be summoned with the tear.)
Twilight: At the very least, Nova. You can fully Q&A Sunset as we either look around more at this section about her heroics, then the section about her family that includes memorabilia of both Firelight and Starlight. Not to mention some of Sunburst's family due to Sunset's brother being Sunburst's father. Then we can get around to the final section about Sunset's fate.
Nova: Right...
She nods at Twilight, looking to the more happy things rather than the darker parts of Sunset's history for now.
She walks over to the display showing off Firelight and Sunset together. And some pictures further down with an infant Starlight too.
Nova: I know you left to start your own family and such but when exactly did you meet Firelight? He was definitely never around in the school with you. I mean you were always swamped with missions or teaching, how did you ever find the time?"
Sunset smiles, the subject of her dear husband was definitely a much appreciated topic.
Sunset: I first met Fi-Fi just by happenstance during a routine mission where Sire's Hollow was one of my stops. He was at first just another civilian. Though he seemed to have eyes for me the moment he first saw me. I was very much on nerves at the moment, he began to walk up to me, and before he could barely say a second word to me. I ended up suplexing him!
Heh, that even sort of almost became a bit of a running gag. Fi-Fi once told me he wondered if he's becoming a masochist for how many times I suplexed him while we were dating, ha ha. I felt awful every time... but he was a good sport about it. It was part of what charmed him to me. He was willing to deal with the bruises to be around a mare like me... it understandably scared other stallions away. Not that I was ever considering others, Fi-Fi was the only one for me.
Nova: You, nervous?
Nova asks in disbelief
Nova: I guess anything really is possible! Of all the things that could shake you like that, I never thought it could be your future husband!
She couldn't hold in her laughter at the mention of Firelight getting constantly suplexed by her.
Nova: AHAHAHA You suplexed him?! What did he try to tickle you or something? And he liked it? Love makes ponies do weird things I swear... But hey, you found yourself a durable one! Please, PLEASE tell me there's a picture of it here…
She looked back and forth on the display to see if they had captured any shots of this… and she eventually found it. Of Sunset's wedding day, her in a lovely flowing dress and Firelight in a now scuffed suit, being suplexed with a smile on his face
Nova: OH DEAR SWEET LUNA, I FOUND IT! Look at that face, he loves it!
Sunset shrugs
Sunset: Hey, from my perspective at that moment. He snuck behind me, I couldn't know if he was some sort of assassin or some other kind of lowly criminal trying to mug me or something.
And Sunset blushes, but smiles as Nova notes the wedding pic.
Sunset: Hehe, even at our secret wedding it was basically tradition at that point. A public wedding risked a changeling invasion on a scale close to the actual one that happened in Canterlot with Twilight's brother and Princess Cadence. But still had to take our fair share of photos, including that one. Of course... some changelings did find out about us eventually. But... Chrysalis herself knew I wasn't a pony to be messed with. All changelings retreated as quickly as possible if I found them out. And I knew a thing or two how to tell a changeling from a real pony.
Nova: Fair, you probably had to always be on guard for surprise attacks. Still this is hilarious. Shame it didn't become a pony tradition, if the ones you love can't handle a suplex, they're not the one for you!
Nova laughs at her own joke
Nova: I'm honestly not surprised a changeling was at the wedding though, even if it's not a large gathering, weddings generate a lot of love. They practically can't help themselves! Or at least that's how it used to be anyway. The changelings of today are invited rather than crashing the party.
She pauses, thinking back to when Chrysalis invaded Canterlot. The Canterlot invasion…
Nova: (I remember that day, their focus may have been on the wedding itself but they still went after the town's ponies as well.
Though I was able to get some wonderful samples from changelings because of it… though maybe I shouldn't tell her that.)
Crazy that you also went up against Chrysalis too. I would think she'd stay far away from you. (Then again, perhaps she was going after some kind of revenge with that king from earlier? But why fight for someone actively trying to kill you and your species?)
You and Sparkle here are sharing your villains? Let me have a go at one of them! Reformee versus villain, I want to see who'd come out on top!
She said with a smile, not realizing that she'd let out the implication that she'd become evil herself for a bit.
Sunset: I probably would have been able to bring Chrysalis to justice sooner had it not been for the fact she developed that anti-magic force field that cancels out all magic except for the changelings own. It would have been a suicide mission had I tried going in as long as the hive was protected by that. Frankly, it very much impressed me that my daughter managed to overcome that with only a few friends. Though she did naturally need a lot of inside help from Thorax.
Once Nova had realized what she'd said, she let out a sigh of relief that Sunset hadn't pushed her on it.
Nova: I'll admit, I wish I had gotten a chance to study the anti magic myself, imagine that kind of trick to be used on villains like Tirek? I heard it was powerful enough to even shut down Discord's powers, an ability like that would be dangerous in the wrong hooves. Still… I can't help but wonder what could have been done with it. But yes, because of your daughter and her friends, the changelings have undergone a metamorphosis that we're still trying to understand to this day. I'd argue though they may not be a subspecies or offshoot mutation but perhaps an original form. Though I don't have enough data to make that claim 100%.
Sunset: Your guess is actually correct, Nova. I've actually seen the Changelings before they became what they were under Chrysalis' reign. I didn't see them in that form for very long, mind you. But they weren't always dark and full of holes. That didn't start becoming widespread in the hive until after... a certain incident tragically cut negotiations between the hive and Equestria short. And this wasn't the event that I froze up earlier about in relation to King Tarsus, although I suspect he had a hoof in this incident too.
This museum doesn't have any memorabilia from the old attempt to negotiate with the changelings. Because as soon as terrible things started happening, me and Celestia were forced to retreat back to Equestria. And Chrysalis, or some other changelings likely burned any of the papers representing the attempt to negotiate. Likely under false pretenses that I was to blame for the incident...
Nova: W-what?! They weren't always… like that?
She fumbled about in the pockets of her lab coat, hoping she may have had a small notepad on her, she squealed in delight when she did find that she had one on her and began furiously writing this information down.
Nova: D-do you realize how big of a deal this is!? It's never been recorded anywhere that changelings used to have forms similar to what they have now or that negotiations even happened. Or if they do exist, they're in a part of Canterlot I'm most likely banned from or not allowed in. But that's besides the point! The historical significance alone is massive, not to mention that they've undergone evolutionary changes multiple times within a short timeframe!
She spoke at a rate that could put someone like Pinkie to shame. This sort of excitement was similar yet different from her excitement of seeing the Sunset museum displays. That thirst for knowledge, the drive to know more, she'd displayed similar behaviors back in Sunset's class all those years ago as well. Some old habits die hard with her.
Nova: Ms. Shimmer, please, if there's any more you're willing to tell me, I'm ready to take more notes!"
Sunset: Heh heh, funnily enough Nova. I'm not the one you should be talking about Changelings with. You REALLY need to see my daughter, Starlight! Twilight here tasked her to study the changelings ever since she started ruling in Canterlot. I already told her everything I knew, she'll know a ton more than I do right now, I'm sure.
Nova: Is that right?
Nova glances over at Twilight
Nova: Once I'm done researching the dragon's tear, I'll be wanting an audience with your student.
She gave a look that said she wouldn't be taking 'no' for an answer.
Nova: Plus it would give me some insight on the daughter of my teacher! I can imagine why the information would have been hidden though, many ponies still have some fear in their hearts of them going back to what they were like during Chrysalis' reign. A sad, close minded thought process really, but you can't just fix years of tension in a snap either. That information if not given a full context could make relations worse and not better... Still I'd love to hear what Starlight has to say on all this, I'm already looking forward to hearing her findings and making some of my own!
Twilight tilts her head and smiles.
Twilight: I'd be more than happy to give you a chance to see Starlight! Believe it or not she's actually here in Sire's Hollow right now. She's just visiting her father currently, or rather at her old childhood home. If you're lucky she may even come by any second now. Naturally, as the daughter of Sunset. She has an exclusive VIP membership to this place. Able to go in and out, even when museum hours are closed. When we're done here, I bet she'd be more than happy to tell you what she's gathered.
Sunset: I must warn you however, we're not sure how the current changeling hive will feel about this info yet. Most of them were born dark and full of holes, so they don't even know their "new" forms are actually their true forms. It could be a lot for them to take in, especially since the context would lead to them asking questions that only one changeling could answer... and that said changeling is still petrified in stone.
The enthusiasm comes to a halt when Sunset mentions the only one who would have information regarding changeling history, Chrysalis
Nova: Chrysalis? She's the only one who'd know? ...so the information is lost to time then...
Nova looked down in disappointment.
Nova: (I highly doubt they'd release her from her stone prison and even if they did, she'd never reveal such information. She was always hellbent on taking down everypony from what I'm aware of. Though if she was part of the original negotiations and only did what she did out of revenge… maybe there's a chance? I mean… I was once driven by revenge but I dropped my own desires for that… perhaps Chrysalis is in a similar situation? I may just be assuming the situation and comparing what happened to me. It is nowhere near the same as what happened to the changelings so it may not even be correct but…)
She was lost in thought trying to process this.
Sunset smiled with Nova's enthusiasm, she remembered that behavior from Nova when she was at the school. She thinks it's very cute that Nova still can channel such overwhelming scientific excitement. Though Nova's glee turns to disappointment as she realizes that some info would require letting Chrysalis free. Sunset tries to pat Nova on the back... only for it to of course just move through Nova as if nothing was there.
Sunset: Ooops, a heh heh heh... even after all this time I forget I can't touch everypony...
At the very least she hopes the gesture was all that mattered.
Sunset: Even if Chrysalis is never freed, I do wonder if when the time is right and we can tell the current hive of the Changeling's full past. We can just learn from those who have passed that Chrysalis likely knew. Many members of the new hive should still have the family blood necessary to summon them. The dragon tear that you are studying is a key to many of the world's secrets thought lost to time!
Nova: Really? Oh then that meeting might come sooner rather than later! Though I'd prefer not to barge in on a family meeting. I'm sure that's more important than giving a random unicorn she's never met some information on changelings that is kept secret y'know?
There's a slight grimace on her face when talking about family but it fades quickly enough.
Nova: If she chooses to come here though, then I wouldn't mind talking now!
She can at least appreciate the gesture that Sunset tried to pat her on the back just like she'd tried to do earlier.
Nova: It's fine, actually...
She whispers and winks to Sunset
Nova: I have been looking into a way to make that no longer an issue buuuut I still need to run some tests. So it's not a guarantee, but it may be possible for you to touch others who aren't directly related to you. Just keep that between us for now though, ok? If you're up for it, we could try to give that a trial run after the tour.
Focusing back on the changeling situation, Nova is pleased to hear that some information can still be gleaned from other members of the changeling families that have passed on.
Nova: Ah yes, I hadn't thought about that part. Familial ties that are strong enough could be the key. I hadn't factored it into my thoughts since my luck with summoning has been hit and miss. With the exception of one or two members, any family of mine is either still alive or… not up there. (and personally, I'll guess the latter)
She didn't sound sad about saying that, as if it was something she'd expected
Sunset is intrigued by Nova's suggestion of something that may remedy the ability to only touch family members or close friends. Though she isn't 100% sure if it will work as Nova intends. She whispers back
Sunset: I'll... take your word for it. But... there's some things that just can't be reversed about death no matter what we do. Just giving you the heads up in case you get excited about trying whatever this is and it doesn't work at all. It wouldn't be your fault. Even with the ability to summon spirits, death still comes at a cost.
In some ways, Sunset was also making sure she doesn't get her own hopes up. She still has some of the mindset of a ghost of somepony who died way too young. So much they wanted to do with a body of flesh and blood, but can never do so now.
Nova: You're right about that, I'm not saying I can bring you back to life. But if my theory is correct, you'd be able to roam around in a living body… at least for a little while. You showed me back when I was a filly that nothing was impossible. That if I truly put my mind to something, I could make it a reality. I, a unicorn who had no business being in Celestia's school due to my lack of raw magic power yet you inspired me to find alternative ways to make up the difference. Despite everything that I've been through, I never forgot that. So consider this an attempt at me returning the favor.
She sounded determined and quite sure of herself, even without a proper test yet, it's as if she knew she could do this.
Nova: But let's finish up the tour first, yeah?
The group now arrived at the section describing the end of Sunset's short life. Her battle against Cozy Glow and her family. Nova stared down at the replicas of them and her fur began to bristle and… darken? Perhaps it was just a trick of the light, but it was a clear shift in demeanor from Nova's mostly bubbly self since she'd gotten there.
Memories of Nova's reaction to Sunset's death flashed in her mind as she saw the image of Cozy Glow and her family.
It had been some time in her early years of being 'reformed', Nova had gotten herself a newspaper that had an article about Sunset. This had been the first confirmation of anything regarding her in years so of course Nova was going to pick it up. Even with the advent of spirit summoning now, Nova can still feel the heartbrokenness and rage she had from reading the article. The scream she'd let out when she read the news. Looking at this display, it made all those feelings bubble back to the surface.
Nova: You know...when I found out what had actually happened to you, I couldn't believe it. I didn't want to believe it... Even though it had been years after your own death when I along with the rest of Equestria found out… I had gotten so angry. I wanted to get my lab coat and take these ponies out myself. Make them my permanent test subjects… make them suffer for what they've done…
A bit of Nova's older wickedness showed for a moment as her fur continued to darken.
Nova: (You took her away from this world....from us…)
Sunset just quietly nods, understanding Nova’s anger.
Twilight and Sunset didn't think Nova's sudden color change was too strange, as they knew Pinkie Pie darkened when she was in a sad mood. Plus Sunset herself always looked at the figures of her murderers with disdain. She knew it was important to have them there still, as to give the visitors an idea of the faces of the evil that ended her life. But it didn't make her any less bitter. She's at the very least glad that her death was not in vain, even if Cozy being sent to the future nearly had a shot of them winning in the end after all. But it was Twilight's School of Friendship that ultimately foiled Cozy, twice at that.
Sunset: Well... now that we're here. Once again I can be asked just about everything related to my final moments.
Over there on the display, you can see the letter from the royal guard informing me that this devious trio had been found, the stone that Cozy dropped on my head. The jar containing my broken horn... the only remaining part of my body left. Various factoids about Nightmare Cliffs, Cheque Mace and Glitterani's crimes prior to my murder, and a look at the devastation that Cheque Mace and Glitterani's dark magic did as their own deaths created two devastating hurricanes in the South Luna Ocean.
Nova takes some time to grimly look at Sunset’s horn displayed in a jar, and a little bit of the stone that had broken it. Dried stains of Sunset’s blood still on where it had struck Sunset’s horn. The horn in the jar was all that remained of her lifelong idol’s body, this horn was once capable of immense magic and now it was only the most grim reminder of Sunset’s fate. As a unicorn herself it also made her slightly queasy on the inside. As a broken horn can be just about any unicorn’s worst nightmare. And it was all because of the demon of a filly that was Cozy Glow, who had fooled Sunset into believing she was nothing like her parents. Nova briefly turns her head toward the figure of the smallest of the three perpetrators.
If she had known what Cozy had done, Nova would have offered Twilight anything to have her chance to serve her own justice be done to her. Her age be damned.
Don't forget though, that there is also a more positive part of this section, that of relating to the Soul Shield. Telling of my new role as protecting the planet along with every good and normal living being that has ever lived. Not to mention a replica of Spike's dragon tear, that allowed me to return to walk on the planet once more.
Nova's tail snapped and cracked like a whip, her pupils dilated, it was as if she didn't hear Sunset speak for a moment. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, her head moved as if she were talking to someone else before the colors faded back to normal. The moment of anger now passing.
Nova: Tch, these 3 can burn for all eternity...
After taking another deep breath, she looked back to Sunset who was still describing the display. For a moment she imagined the horrified faces of Cheque Mace and Glitterani as they too met their fates, relishing in their terror. Thoughts of what she would like to do to them swirled in her head for a moment before she looked away. (They're dead now, I can't dwell on this. It's not a good look in front of her…)
The mention of the good Sunset is capable of even after her death does put a bit of a smile back on her face.
Nova: The adventure never really ends huh? Even today you're still protecting all of Equestria...
(I wonder, when my time comes...would I be allowed to go up there? Or have the things I've done in the past already sealed my fate? ...I'd rather not think too much about that. I know I can change what happens to me...)
She gulped nervously before looking at Sunset.
(I do have a question about the shield, Ms. Shimmer, when you're up there, what's it like? Are you able to interact with all the other spirits? Is it a combined consciousness? Or something else entirely?)
Sunset: When you go up there, you're greeted by the spirits of your deceased family and/or friends. When I died, my Grandparents from both sides of my family and earlier generations were there. It's... certainly a shock... especially when dying as young as I did. My extended family did their very best to calm me, explaining the afterlife in full detail. I.. was too upset to listen to them at first. I had a family I wanted to take care of and nourish... if anything. It helped that the default state of a soul in the soul shield is in a subconscious sleeping state. Cause I'm not sure how long it would have taken for me to get over my death if we spirits were always fully conscious.
As for interacting with spirits for the most part I'm just with any friends or family who have also passed.. I had a dog that I really loved when I was a filly. Being licked by her again for the first time in so long was in hindsight the beginning of calming down after my untimely death. It is occasionally possible to interact with spirits that I never knew in my life. Though most of them are the more "elder" spirits you could say... like Jinn for example. Perhaps the longer some being's been dead the more they can interact with the rest of the shield. Our cave pony ancestors have learned how to speak more like modern ponies as a result you could say.
Getting back to the state we're in most of the time though. We of course take the shape of something akin to comets. Which on special nights can be occasionally seen. Though never the entire shield, otherwise the whole sky would be white with all the bright souls from all of time..
Twilight suddenly herself has a question.
Twilight: Wait... Jinn is an elder spirit even though her death was closer to 1000 years ago? I mean.. that IS still a long time. But in context of the planet's entire history? That feels too recent.
Sunset: Oh. That's because for Soul Shield purposes... under a sheer technicality, her GENIFICATION was her death!
Twilight's eyes went wide as she grimaced.
Twilight: WAIT WHAAAAAAAAT?!
Sunset blinked
Sunset: Is something wrong, Twilight?
Twilight takes some time to breathe doing her usual exercises.
Twilight: Heh... sorry... it's just... that seems to imply that to the Soul Shield that I'M technically dead. Or half-dead I suppose... I... may need to abscond for a little while as I navigate this existential crisis soon...
Nova: Family and friends huh...? (Well... I can at least think of a small group that could greet me there maybe. I-if I'm able to go years from now.)
Interesting that pets and the like could be seen as well. Heh, I wonder how many of the creatures I've interacted with over the years are up there?
This thought put her heart at ease, the dread of potentially having no one to greet her was now put to rest. She became fascinated at the prospect of speaking with ancient ponies and spirits
Nova: Seriously?! Oh the stories they must be able to tell! This goes beyond just ancient Equestria, the entire planet was a completely foreign place compared to now! And being a comet or comet like… that actually sounds pretty nice. Shooting across the skies, seeing the world...
Nova looked just as stunned as Twilight at the revelation of genification being a technical death.
Nova: EXCUSE ME!? (Yikes, and here I was wanting to see if I can dabble in that power myself…)
She rushed over to Twilight and poked at her with her hoof
Nova: Does the same apply to you? I mean I can touch you so… either you register as a close enough friend... (Nah, no way I've barely known her personally for only a few years) Or you're not dead...
I'm confused though, how is being genified a cause of technical death? Is… is the process like the 'death' of the pony but a 'rebirth' into the genie form at the same time? I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS!
Sunset shrugs
Sunset: I mean... Genies are half-spirit, right? It just might count because it is still at least partly turning into a spirit. Twilight does technically have the powers we have up there. But because I suppose she became a bit of a hybrid between alive and dead. She's able to grant the wishes of living beings, whereas we only grant the desires of the planet itself.
Nova: That's just… remarkable.
Nova paced around, muttering
Nova: The information was right there all along, nopony ever just put two and two together. Of course Twilight and any genie for that matter are essentially living spirits. So that would mean they are 'dead' in the sense they can interact with both planes of existence. Of course that does raise questions regarding what a 'natural' lifespan of a hybrid genie would be. It's clearly longer than any normal mortal pony that's for sure, and on top of that an alicorn boost would easily make her life even longer.
Dammit, how am I supposed to see the end results when I won't naturally live that long? ...heh guess that'll be something for me to look into.
(I wonder if that means the spiritual experiment I want to run with Sunset would work the same with Twilight...? Mmm... Questions for later…)
She realized she was rambling a bit and got lost in her own head. Twilight looked like she was having a bit of an internal crisis with this newfound information. Nova puts a hoof on her shoulder
Nova: Don't freak out on this, think about it, it's something new to research and look into! Isn't that exciting in itself! A whole new kind of mystery to discover! I mean you've been a genie for a good while now right? If this is news to you, imagine what else you may not know about those traits!
Twilight has a hoof on her head still trying to contemplate this. But she does admit Nova has a point here.
Twilight: I'm not even sure a genie has an end to a lifespan really. Jinn still just got herself wished free. It's totally possible that the moment I became a genie, or at least when the time limit had run out. I became a true immortal. Perhaps it being a sort of half-death the reason I can't die is well... I'm at least partly already dead.. though at the very least if I were to choose one day to let go of my geniehood. I'd be back to fully alive status. Of course... I'd still be an Alicorn on top of that but you get the idea. But I think Alicorns are only immortal in terms of dying of old age.
Right now if something awful happened to me like being stabbed in the heart, I'd only be forcibly sucked back into my bottle. Whereas if something unfortunate like that happened to Celestia, Luna, Cadence, or Flurry Heart which knock on wood I hope never happens... they could still be sent to the soul shield that way.
Nova: I mean technically we could put a stress test on you but… that really doesn't sound like fun for either of us. I may have wanted to rough you up some time in the past but that? No, even for the sake of science, I think it's a line too far. I need you around so I have a goal on who to surpass! (And… well, I kinda like having her around... she's more fun than I once thought) Still you ever want to test some genie powers, you know I'll be more than willing to get some notes hehehe.
And don't think for a second something terrible is gonna happen to the princesses! With all of you protectors of Equestria around? You guys would put a stop to anyone stupid enough to try.
She said with a grin
Twilight: Well anyhow... I'm more calm about it now... but I think I'll still head off for a brief time. Maybe I'll use some portal gum to check how Spike's handling things back in Canterlot. I'll be back soon, you two!
Twilight waves, and heads off as she leaves Nova and Sunset alone in the museum.
Nova waves to Twilight as she heads off. She looks back to Sunset with a smile
Nova: So...now that we're alone, care to hear about my little experiment?"
Sunset pauses for a moment.
Sunset: I... guess so... but before we do this. I'm going to need you to explain this spell you have in full detail before I agree to whatever this is. If it's derived from a Dragon Tear in some fashion though. It has to be something pretty potent. After all, Dragon Tears are crystallized soul magic. The type of stuff us spirits are made out of.
Nova: Not to worry, none of it is going to be dangerous to you! Given what you just said about the nature of genies being essentially living spirits, I'm more certain than ever that this will work! You've given me the crucial bit of information I've been missing this whole time!
Using the notepad she had earlier, she draws some images to better explain her plan
Nova: You see here, we've got the dragon's tear and that's what allows us to communicate and summon spirits but also is crucial to how genies like Twilight can exist in the first place. I know I'm simplifying it but you know what I mean. So what's the main difference between you two? Besides the living, half-living… whatever status she's in. It's the fact that a spirit unlike a genie isn't tied down to a vessel. In simplistic terms a vessel is just something that holds the spirit in.
She smiles
Nova: Can you see where I'm going with this? What if I were to allow you to inhabit a vessel? But I'm not talking about a bottle, jar, or something like that. I'm talking about a living body, a willing participant to be your temporary vessel? Nopony ever said a vessel had to be an object, I believe it could be something much more. You recall a little while ago when I joked about you possessing ponies or objects, that's actually not far off from what I'm proposing here. If it works, you'd have control over a physical body and be able to move around in the world with all the senses you've missed out on as a spirit!
Sunset: Hmm... I suppose... that could be plausible... all living beings themselves have soul magic in them, even if it's not fully brought out unless they're genified or they die. Genie vessels themselves have the dragon tear that enhanced them merge with the genified pony's soul magic. So it might just be a matter of bringing in a spirit to at least temporarily merge with the soul magic inside another.
Nova: Precisely, you'd be piggybacking on a pony's already existing soul magic and combining it with your own to create a temporary bond!"
Sunset: But... who'd even be so willing to let me inhabit their body. Even if I'm "Equestria's greatest hero", I'm not sure that many ponies would jump at the chance at the idea of a ghost being inside them...
She couldn't help but laugh at Sunset's question.
Nova: Who else? You're looking at her! I'm no stranger to self experimentation either. You're correct that most ponies would recoil at the thought but you're one pony I could make the exception for.
(And...well I'm already used to that kind of loss of control in a sense. But she may find that out if this works.)
Nova: But I'm not saying this as some fangirl. It's as I told you before, Ms. Shimmer, I want to repay you for the kindness you once showed me long ago. But if you're uncomfortable with the idea, you can just tell me so.
Sunset gasped
Sunset: R...re...really? You'd... offer to let me into your mind and/or body? Are... you sure... and I mean... ABSOLUTELY sure about this?
The spirit is somewhat both flattered, and nervous about it now that Nova is seriously offering it.
Sunset: I... won't say no just yet... but there is one thing we should put into consideration... Assuming this all works as planned... I can't be in your body for more than 3 days. That's the time limit before Twilight's genification became permanent for 1000 years. I could end up being in you for a long time if we don't keep that in mind. Disconnecting and then reconnecting could in theory circumvent that limit, but I am as dedicated as being a part of protecting this planet with the other spirits as I was with protecting Equestria when I was still alive. So as much as I'd love to, I shouldn't always be inhabiting your body just so I can have all the joys of having all the senses of a living being again.
But... if it works. It'd... be a nice occasional thing to do every now and then...
Nova: Whaaaat? You're saying you don't want to be part of me for 1000 years? Extend my own life a little? You wound me!
Nova chuckles before her expression changes to a more serious one
Nova: In all seriousness though, I'm fully aware of what we risk if we're not careful. And I would hate to pull you away from your mission as I'm sure you'd feel the same about taking me away from my own scientific endeavors. While the intent here is to let you have fun, I'll be sure to keep track of the time we have. Unlike a few other experiments, I have no desire to try pushing that three day limit without a guarantee of your safety.
She looks away for a moment and mutters to herself
Nova: And… I wouldn't want you to be dragged down with me if I couldn't make it up there when I pass...
But hey, if it does work on a consistent level, I wouldn't necessarily mind you coming in more often as long as I'm not too busy! So… is this a yes then?
Sunset chuckles a little
Sunset: Come now, if you're kind enough to share your own body. You're just about a shoe-in for the Soul Shield. What decides between becoming a spirit, or dark magic that remains on the planet isn't about judgment of what you've done in the past. It helps to have done more right then wrong, but any wrongs committed can be nullified as long as you can self-reflect and have genuine remorse. That's the big difference between those who become dark magic and those who go up in the soul shield. Those with temperaments like Cheque Mace and/or Glitterani were never going to apologize. But ponies like my daughter, who traveled back in time with the intent to change history could still atone for themselves
I did remember you mentioning about being a reformee earlier, but I didn't want to pry to you about that. Can't expect everypony to be about as pure good as me, Celestia, and Twilight.
As for if it's a yes... I'm leaning on it for sure. Buuuut, I have one more question... how is this even going to work? It's not like you can orally eat me.
Sunset stretches her hoof into Nova's head. The hoof phased right through Nova's snoot and mouth, with the bottom of her hoof coming out of the back of Nova's head.
Sunset: And before you mention it, your tatzl tail's probably not going to be able to do the trick either
Sunset says as she walks behind Nova, having her hoof phase through the tatzl tail to demonstrate that as well
Nova initially looks like she still has some doubts of where she may end up, but Sunset would know more about the soul shield than any other pony, her reassurance puts Nova at ease.
Nova: Is that right? Hm… maybe there's a chance for me after all. In time you'll learn about the things I've done, but I have genuinely changed from then. I can't call myself some beacon of hope or a hero of Equestria, I've not done anything to earn such a title. But I do what I can. Thank you Sunse… er Ms. Shimmer."
She giggles at Sunset's attempts to get inside her though she starts to sweat at the mention of her tail having the capacity
Nova: Y-you know about that?! (Alright what did Sparkle tell her? How much does she know about me now?)
She nervously laughs it off for now. If the experiment works, she'd have plenty of time to press her on it.
Nova: C-consumption by normal means isn't possible as you uh are attempting. I could try to swallow the dragon tear piece I have but at best that would just literally put you inside me but not have you possess me.
The thought does make her laugh as she imagines it.
Sunset giggles
Sunset: Nova, if you're a tatzl hybrid, it's kind of obvious that tail of yours is an alternate consumption method. Perhaps you could hide that fact from ponies who aren't familiar with Tatzlwurms, and thus think it's just a unique style of tail. But you know I'm somepony who's literally came face-to-face with them.
Nova: Heh...guess I can't hide anything from you huh. I mean you already knew it was a tatzl tail, but I didn't think you knew about THAT part.
She blushes, trying to keep her thoughts clean
Luckily for her, the focus shifts back to how this will all work.
Nova: What I was thinking was channeling you through my horn but using the tear as a sort of conduit. I'd channel my magic into it, latch on to your magic specifically and pull you back in. Think of it like a genie returning to its vessel. This will also be what allows me to expel you from my body before the time limit is up. As a spirit you're pure magic in a sense so, I just have to bring you into my very being. I will still be able to speak with you in our collective mindscape so it's not like you're locking me away either."
Sunset patiently listens as Nova explains the method would actually be through Nova's horn.
Sunset: Ohhhhhh, I see now. Yeah, that totally makes a lot more sense then what I was thinking, ha ha.
It does sound a bit unfair though to earth ponies and pegasi if this is only possible through a unicorn/alicorn horn. But then again, only dragons can use Dragon tear's to summon. So who knows, maybe each species and/or race of ponies have a special ability that only they can do when in possession of a Dragon Tear. Dragon Tears are still too rare to find out if that's the case, but may be something to look into in the far future.
I suppose you can show me where you place the dragon tear to start this off. Do you like, attach it like a ring/horn bracelet, or some other method?
Nova: When it comes to other species I think it can still be possible to be done by earth ponies and pegasi. But they'd need to focus on where their specific magic is channeled, if I had to guess, their hooves and wings respectively. This is still very uncharted territory but I'll be looking into other species being able to do this special summoning if this all works out. And I was thinking of putting the tear shard into a horn ring. As that would be the most direct contact I can have with it without just embedding it into my horn directly. I wouldn't want to remove the ring while you're in me either but that's more of a precautionary measure. I did bring my shard with me as I thought Twilight would have wanted me to return it before we went on this trip. But I don't have a ring I can use. After all I didn't think I'd actually be meeting you today...you wouldn't happen to know where I could get one I can modify, do you?"
Sunset: Hm... I may actually have a horn ring somewhere back in the section about my heroic deeds and/or adventures. Being a unicorn, I had my fair share of accessories after all. Though, I can't get it myself because... well...
Sunset waves her hoof through a wall next to her.
Sunset: Plus, of course it's locked up tight in the display cases. And even if you try to use magic to teleport the item out, it will trigger an alarm. We're going to need somepony who works here to get it. I think the receptionist's desk should have the keys to just about any exhibit. We can ask her permission.
Nova giggles
Nova: It's the best option we've got for right now that doesn't involve thievery so we might as well ask. This is your museum after all, I think if they'll make an exception for anypony it'll be you. They wouldn't miss one ring, we're not asking to take anything else. I'm sure it'll be fine.
The two take the short walk back to the receptionist, Nova can't help but laugh as Sunset just phases through the walls rather than choose to follow the path. Once at the desk, Nova greets the mare there with a smile.
Nova: Hello again, I'm sorry to bother you but we had a bit of a question regarding a particular item here. Would you mind if we took out the horn ring Sunset once used for about three days?
Without Twilight with her, Nova was expecting an immediate and obvious 'no' to her question.
Receptionist: On what grounds, Miss Spa-
Sunset's head and neck suddenly jumps out from the wall behind the Receptionist
Sunset: She has my full permission!
The Receptionist shrieks and falls off her chair
Receptionist: GAAAAH! S… Sun… Sunset?! Oh my Twilight, how many times have I told you not to scare me like that?! I adore you as a hero, I took this job for a reason... but you keep giving me the heebie jeebies! One of these days I'm going to get a heart attack from you, and I'll have QUITE the words for you up in that soul shield!
Sunset giggles
Sunset: Hehe, who knows. Maybe that's my goal?~ OOOOOooooOOOOOOoooooo!
Sunset waves her hooves around like a fake scary ghost again. And the receptionist sighs. she cheers up though. Sunset freaks her out sometimes, but she's worked here long enough that there is some charm to getting to know the very spirit that this museum was dedicated to. She didn't expect her to be the pranking type, but it's made her work days interesting on occasion.
Receptionist: Well... if Sunset says you can, Miss Spark... I suppose that's the highest possible authority, and she trusts you. Here you go, this key should open the compartment that contains the ring. Make sure to put it back when you're done though.
The urge to burst out in laughter as the receptionist fell over nearly brought Nova to tears. She didn't get to see this side of Sunset much if at all as a filly so to see it was a delight.
Nova: Oh dear, is this a normal occurrence here?
(To think Ms. Shimmer had this playful side to her all along. I always saw her as the stoic or motherly type. It's refreshing to see that I've still got a lot to learn about her.)
Nova holds a hoof up as the receptionist agrees to this request.
Nova: Don't you worry ma'am, I will treat it with the utmost respect! I wouldn't ever dream of tarnishing anything of Ms. Shimmer's. That is a promise.
She says as she takes the key with her magic. The excitement of being able to not only experiment with one of Sunset's belongings, but Sunset herself was welling up inside. She could barely hold it in with how fast her tail was wagging behind her
Nova: Now then, let's go get that ring!
Sunset: Right!
Sunset follows Nova back to the museum area to retrieve the ring
The receptionist adjusts her glasses to its normal position, leaning back in her chair.
Receptionist: I really should ask Mrs. Flare for a raise...
Nova gets to the case in question in a flash, with the key in tow, she quickly unlocks it. The ring isn't that old that it would crumble but Nova was still sure to be careful with it as she removed it from the case.
Nova: Perfect hehehe, we have all we need now! First let me make sure this will actually fit my horn...
She floats the ring up above her horn and slowly slides it down, any bit of resistance and she'd pull it up, but to her own surprise, it fits perfectly!
Nova: Aha! It fits! I didn't realize we had the same kind of size! I will be able to work with this!
She slides the ring back off and pulls the dragon tear shard that she had on her. Already working on putting them together.
Nova: Ok so all I need to do is combine the two here and I'll be able to use it on you! Are you ready to give this a shot? I understand if you're still nervous.
While Nova was the one asking, she too was shaking a bit. Perhaps out of her own nerves of not wanting to mess up in front of her former teacher.
Sunset is a little nervous about this, but Nova has been real kind to her thus far. She knew by now Nova wouldn't do this if there was any chance of things becoming too uncomfortable.
Sunset: Yeah... I suppose I'm about ready. Though if it works like how a genie is pulled into a vessel. Perhaps I should do... this...
Sunset floats herself up into the air, does a few majestic midair flips as everything below her hips merges and becomes a long, curvy, ghostly tail.
Sunset: I know that the process probably would have morphed my lower half anyway. but if I'm expecting to be sucked into your horn. Might as well be prepared for it.
Nova: Heheh g-good, getting yourself ready. Ok… ok let me just...
Nova takes some deep breaths to calm her own nerves, once more she shuts her eyes and it looks as if she's talking to someone who's not there, but whatever she's thinking does reassure her.
(We've got this, I know we do...we can make her proud of us.)
Looking far more confident after an internal pep talk, Nova places the ring on her horn, some small blue sparks surge from the ring as it connects with Nova's magic. She looks up at Sunset with a smile and braces herself.
Nova: I hope you're ready to take control of a body again because once this is done, you'll be in charge!
Her magical aura lights up, showing the cinnamon brown colors for a moment before being channeled into the ring and changing to a light blue, similar to the sparks that she'd made. She locks onto Sunset's form and a beam of light hits the end of her ghostly tail. Nova trembles as she feels her magic connect
Nova: I've got you! Now...I just have to pull you in.
The blue sparks now surround both mares, Sunset can feel a tingling sensation all around her very being but it's not unpleasant. Her ghostly tail begins to stretch and warp as it gets closer to Nova's horn. Pulling her in like a magnet. Nova's focus is purely on making sure the spell goes off without a hitch, her eyes closed so while she may not see what's happening, she can certainly feel it. At first it's like two opposing forces clashing but her own magics start to mix and swirl with Sunset's, going from what feels like a wild thunderstorm shift over to a warm yet strong fire. Sunset would be able to see herself slowly becoming part of Nova's magical aura itself before being sucked further into her horn directly.
Nova: I-It's working! I can f-feel it! How...how are you holding up, Sunset?!
Sunset: Oh gosh...!
Sunset shivered somewhat, feeling the tingling as the first connections were made, but she reacted calmly as her tail approached Nova's horn. The moment her ghostly tail touched Nova's horn a sensation that felt like a jolt that was somehow both tight, but pleasant. Sunset had experimented before with entering into stuff smaller than her. Though when she did, it was nothing like when Twilight went into her bottle.
This feeling wasn't too unfamiliar though, the process of a genie going into a vessel is somewhat similar to transforming into the subconscious state of the comet-like forms in the atmosphere. As noted, when Twilight's inside her vessel she's technically in that same form. Just condensed into a small vessel, but feeling just as relaxed in there as a spirit traveling the soul shield. The suction is a bit slower than the comet form transformation since the latter doesn't involve any sort of shaping, and this is being manually done by Nova. Though because it took longer, it kind of felt even better then transforming into her comet form. As it was sort of like a massage for the soul, quite literally since she was all soul.
Tiny embers and static electricity occasionally swirl around Nova's horn as the two's more elemental magic seems to be doing its own little magic duel around where Nova was pulling Sunset in. As if the two were deciding which was more dominant. Would Nova's lightning prevail since she would be the host body? Or would Sunset's fire since Nova is willfully letting her take control. Or maybe they weren't battling at all, just trying to find a way to coexist with each other. Whatever was going to happen, the two would find out soon enough
Nova: Hah.... hah....
Nova trembled as their magic continued to dance around each other. She could feel herself instinctively wanting to keep control but she quickly shook that thought away. This had to go off without a hitch, her fear of losing control could not prevail here. Her lightning and Sunset's fire stopped clashing and soon began to move in sync almost like a dance. For a moment, the fire would shift to a blue flame and the lightning would turn into a reddish-orange bolt and back to their normal colors. Swirling together in a harmonic fashion. As Sunset's form was taken further in, she could hear Nova's voice yet she wasn't speaking aloud… what Sunset was hearing was her thoughts!
Nova: (Don't let her down, don't let her down, don't let her down… we can do this! I can do this! I have to!!)
It was faint, but there was a second voice, it sounded somewhat similar to Nova but at the same time it was like a different entity entirely.
???: (We're almost there, finish strong! We can rest when we're done!)
On the outside, more of Sunset was dissipating into Nova's magical aura, it became more soothing for the both of them as the process continued. The dance her lightning and Sunset's fire had was now coming closer as they blended together, essentially becoming a new element itself. It filled both mares with a gentle warmth. Nova could feel it in her chest as it radiated through her. It seems her body was now fully accepting Sunset's magic as a part of it rather than seeing it as an invader. She blushed a bit as more and more of Sunset came into her.
Nova: Mmm.... A-almost there...
Sunset gasped a bit as she felt herself becoming slowly thinner and longer. With a less solid body and waving a bit wildly, it was much easier to shape her into Nova's magic then a genie that's still partly solid as Sunset was entirely made up of soul magic.. She is spiraling almost like she's stuck in a tornado, but at a much slower speed. She hears Nova's thoughts, although being sucked into her horn is kind of too strange of an event for her to really focus on that.
Nova meanwhile was beginning to feel something more. Sunset's magic empowering her, the power that had impressed Celestia so many years ago. A raw magic that surpassed even Twilight's, at least before she ascended. The kind of power that Starlight had inherited, that allowed her to do tricks that even Twilight even after ascension such as flying purely through levitation. So much was being absorbed into Nova's body, she was beginning to wonder if she could even take it all in...
The warmth on Sunset's side was still gently easing her into Nova's horn, however for Nova, she was now hitting a wall that she had not factored into the equation. All of Sunset's raw magic, it was far beyond Nova's own expectations. Unlike Nova's only slightly above average magic, this made her feel like she was going to overflow and be lost within it herself. She began to tremble again, feeling dizzy, sweat dripped down from her forehead as she could feel herself overheating. If she lost focus now, there'd be no telling what would happen to Sunset! Random sparks began to fly from her horn as she tried to force it together
Nova: AGH!!
(It's… so much… energy. Is this what it's like t-to have this kind of raw potential?!)
She looked as if she were about to topple over. Her tail smacked the ground multiple times, doubts started to creep into her mind. The fear of not being able to handle it after all, to be so close yet still out of reach. It's something she'd dealt with her whole life and it frustrated her.
Nova: (NO, NO, NO, NO!! NOT WHEN I'M THIS CLOSE! But this magic… it's... it's too much! I can't… It's like I'm still some weak filly!)
Just then something pops into her mind, a memory from years ago. She saw herself in her old classroom with Sunset standing in the front.
Sunset: Remember class, anypony can be born with high levels of magic, but it doesn't make you superior. Our magic may come from the horn, but it's part of our whole being. It's how you use your magic, not how much of it you have. Relax, and let the magic inside guide you.
Nova's eyes widened. The self doubt made her want to give up. But this memory combined with her resolve of who she was doing this for made her stand tall once more.
Nova: (No, I've got this. I just have to try a different approach.)
She lifted her head high, extending her magic from her horn to her entire body. The pressure building within her starts to even out. She no longer feels like she'll be burned but rather become the fire itself.
Sunset herself could hear Nova recalling the memory, and although she had faith Nova could do this on her own. Just in case, she tries to exclaim some extra encouragement, even as she's being forcibly pulled in odd, but pleasant ways.
Sunset: Nnngh! Y… yo… You can do it, Nova! Don't lose focus! You have all the power you need, don't let the flames burn you. BE the flame! FIND your flame!
Nova: Yes… I WILL!
Now with Sunset's encouragement along with her restored confidence, her magical aura began to look like a fire itself, Sunset's essence swirling and spreading through all of it. No longer fearing the magic flowing through her, Nova found it much easier to take in. It felt as if Sunset were standing right beside her. She could literally feel her presence within her. With one last pull, all of Sunset's magic made it into her. For a moment her irises flashed the same color as Sunset's before it turned back to normal. The magical aura also shrank back down to her horn and then sucked everything that was left into it.
Nova: I… I.. did it... I really did… it...
She soon falls to the floor, feeling the control of her body slip from her.
Now within the recesses of Nova's mind, Sunset would still be able to communicate with her and see her when she closes her eyes to focus. But she'd also find that other Nova-like entity as well who, like Nova, was currently passed out.
As Sunset's head enters, Sunset seems to speak but is muffled as her mouth enters Nova's horn. Though Nova can soon hear what Sunset was trying to say from within her mind
Sunset: G… go… good job, N-nova...
Sunset allows Nova some time to recover from the use of such an intense spell. But soon finds the essence of what Sunset assumes is some sort of Alter Ego. It wouldn't be long until Sunset would be given more control. But Sunset at least wants to satisfy her curiosity.
Sunset: H-hello? Who are you?
This alternate Nova slowly wakes up and gives a wide smile to Sunset, with darker fur, her piercing red eyes, lightning bolts under her eyes and even sharper fangs compared to Nova. On first glance, one might think of her as an evil entity. But Sunset would recognize her as a more 'complete' hybrid of a tatzl. She is also stroking Nova's mane with a hoof.
???: That's a more complicated question than you think, Ms. Shimmer… er you know what, you're already in our head, I'm just calling you by your first name.
Her tone was a lot different from Nova's, far more brash.
Fury: You can call me, Fury. I gotta say, I'm pleased to be able to meet you, Sunset. I mean technically you've met me, but you also haven't? Like I said, this is more complicated to answer. Long story short, Nova's tatzl transformation caused us to be two separate… beings? Souls? Whatever.
She shakes her head.
Fury: Either way I'm here in the back of her head when she needs me or when I want to screw around for a bit. It's also why we were certain that we'd be the prime candidates to act as a vessel. We're kinda used to it. You'll find that because we're in a metaphysical space like this, pretty much anything is possible in here , such as our communication.
Fury seemed to be just as intelligent as Nova was, even with a different personality. Fury taps Nova's face.
Fury: Hey, I said you can rest when you're done, not sleep. Sunset's here, the plan worked!
Fury looks up back at Sunset
Fury: If you think she was freaking out when she saw you out there, you can only imagine what she was like in here. And that's not even going into any long standing thought's she's had about you, heh.
Nova: Don't you start… Fury. You were just as excited… you cried too.
Nova groaned as she woke up.
Nova: I'm glad this all worked… hehe, I see you uh… already met Fury. I know this might be a lot to take in all at once. But I did tell you we've got a bit of catching up to do.
Sunset: I suppose we do...
Though Sunset makes a sudden realization that makes her frown.
Sunset: Wait... if we're sharing the same body now... we might not have to wait long to catch up... our... memories are about to flood into each other any second now, isn't it? Oh gosh, Nova... I'm so sorry... you're going to see what I froze up about related to Tarsus...! Not to mention... my last moments alive.... exactly as it happened....
Both Nova and Fury look concerned as they hadn't thought that part through
Nova: Then that means you're going to see… oh no....
Not a moment later, a torrent of memories begin to flood through the mares' minds, images projected all around them of the experiences they had but also the feelings that came with said memories. Nova and Fury saw themselves standing against Tarsus but he looked different from the display, even more wicked and deadly. They could feel fire practically burning their fur with the next part of the memory.
Nova: Oh dear Luna… that's why… All those changelings they....
Nova and Fury held each other, keeping themselves standing as more memories flowed into them. Tears streamed down their faces as they felt what Sunset did at that time.
Nova: W-wait what was that? Who was that?! were there two of ...ngh!
Nova holds her head as the memory of Sunset fighting Cozy Glow and her family comes into view. The intense heat is now being replaced with sheer cold from the rain of a raging thunderstorm. Anger bubbled up within Nova and Fury, their more tatzl nature making itself known, they knew they were capable of rage like this, but never expected it from Sunset. Then they felt cold, the intense pain of being struck in the back of the head, their horn breaking. More pain coming out of an attempt to use magic anyway, but some form of satisfaction in having sent Cozy away by sheer luck via Time Travel.
Before the utter despair of witnessing from a first person view as Glitterani dragged herself and Sunset off of Nightmare Cliff’s, and Nova and Fury felt that last burning sensation in Sunset’s mind before everything went black.
It caused them to gasp for air as they were reliving Sunset's death.
Sunset meanwhile would have a similar experience, starting with memories of Nova's mother berating her and showing her a letter of 'banishment' from Celestia's school. The sheer heartbreak and anger she felt at that point, towards Celestia, Twilight Sparkle, and herself. They would soon shift over to the darker 'experiments' she's run on ponies she deemed wicked and the pain she felt when she became a tatzlpony
As more painful memories flowed into them, they got a better understanding of what the other had gone through. The internalized sadness and anger from Sunset and the self loathing but also the anger towards the world from Nova.
But then… it began to fade as more positive memories took their place. Nova and Fury feeling elated, they were in their class, this time from Sunset's perspective. Watching as all of the foals asked questions and grew to be better magic users. The scene shifts over to when Sunset met Firelight for the first time, and the suplex that followed. Jumping further to their wedding day and the eventual birth of Starlight. Even the reunion that she had with her family, it made the horrid memories seem so distant. The two tatzl mares were crying, but now out of joy rather than pain.
For Sunset, she could also see a memory from Nova's school days, how she felt when she was around Sunset or Celestia. She thought of them more highly than her mother and it was clear to see, it was as if she saw them as almost surrogate parents. The scene shifts to some points during her darker days when Nova had met some lifelong friends, those who kept her from truly falling into total despair. And even seeing post tatzlification how Nova began to take responsibility for her prior actions. All culminating to when she had met with Celestia right after Twilight's ascension to the throne. The relief she could feel when Celestia not only remembered her, but forgave her for her actions.
The memories would soon fade for all of them, Nova couldn't bring herself to look at Sunset, despite experiencing the good memories. She was scared to see if Sunset thought less of her now. Fury spoke first, still holding onto Nova.
Fury: That was… that was intense...
Sunset's eyes were full of tears. With mixed emotions about Nova's memories, it takes some time to ponder how to respond. But when she finally thought of how to, she walked up to Nova's side with a determined look on her face. Nova initially was scared that Sunset was going to scold her. Especially, for what were once her very differing opinions of Celestia… as well as the many experiments that at points went a little too far.
But what Nova got instead, she couldn't have ever expected.
Sunset grabbed her in for a hug, a very motherly hug. And says nothing, for a good while. She lets Nova let it all go crying into her shoulder, in her hooves before finally speaking.
Sunset: It's ok, Nova, It'll all be ok...
She does look over Nova's shoulder to talk to Fury.
Sunset: You too Fury, join your twin sister, or however you two describe each other.
Sunset let a hoof free to let Fury to join in on the hug.
Nova trembled as Sunset got closer. Fury, despite not showing it, looked as if she was ready to defend Nova but gasped when Sunset went in for a hug instead.
Nova's eyes widened, more tears fell from her eyes as she returned the hug and just let everything out. Nuzzling against Sunset
Fury: Oh please, her my twin sister...? I mean… hah, that's not really...
Fury tried to brush it off at first.
Fury: I-I've had to relive those memories over and over… you think I need to… need to.... dammit
The facade fell as she too went in for the hug and cried along with Nova. Considering the size of them, they practically enveloped her… but they needed this. Them being two sides of the same coin, they both felt the same pain. To have Sunset forgive them for what they've done. It was a relief like no other. After a short while, the two let go of Sunset and stand.
Nova: Thank you, Sunset… thank you. You probably saw, but I kinda did the same thing when I told Celestia and...
She sniffs, trying to hold herself together, she's already let out more emotion today than she'd intended to.
Nova: I'd say you don't know how it makes me… I mean us feel, but you did just get all of our thoughts and feelings so… you already know. Heh… And um, about the feelings I had regarding you and Celestia. I uh… it was just the thoughts of a filly trying to fill a void so...
She stammered, still being a bit shy about her feelings being out in the open like that.
Fury: I think we're past the point of awkwardness now. No shame in what we feel, Nova.
Sunset: No worries, the two of you. I've been in this situation before, when Starlight's admitted all her own dark deeds in the past. Everything that happened because I unfortunately wasn't there for her. Just like her, your guilt should never feel fully absolved. But as long as you can acknowledge what you've done is wrong. You'll come out as a better pony...
Sorry if I'm repeating myself a bit here, but I'll mention that's something that beings like King Tarsus, or the evil family that plotted my murder was never capable of. And that's why they entirely lost any consciousness when they died, their souls becoming nothing but a temper tantrum of dark magic that takes it out on the world and becomes less effective as time goes on and/or efforts are put into stopping it.
But you two don't, I promise that the day you end up in the soul shield... which while I still hope is a long time from now. You'll be welcomed, perhaps I'll even be there to greet you when you do.
Nova looks more at ease now. Sunset's words touch her and Fury's heart.
Nova: Of course, we've still got a lot of things to make up for. But ultimately we're doing what we do for the sake of Equestria, not just for the benefit of ourselves anymore. Will I still have my moments of weakness? Sure, who doesn't have those? I mean do I see some alicorn wings in our future? Psh, no. But I still intend to measure up in my own way to get there. Twilight isn't my enemy but you heard me out there, she's someone who I strive to surpass! A goal and even if I someday reach it, that doesn't mean it's the end. I want to unlock my full potential as well as the potential of everyone out there!
Fury wipes some tears from her own eyes.
Fury: I'd say we've got a better understanding of you now more than ever before. It's like we just lived each other's lives in a short microburst. Though uh...hey m-maybe one of us should take control of the body now. I don't want the museum staff to think the ring was cursed and we died or something by putting it on.
She continues to sit down quietly with the two while still within an unconscious Nova's mind. Though she does eventually get that wake-up call by Fury to begin to take control.
Sunset: Oh... pardon me. But... since I'm all new to this... mind telling me how I take control?
Fury and Nova laugh as Sunset asks how to take control.
Fury: Oh that's easy! Luckily, we're used to swapping in and out. We like to visualize it here as having a control panel that you can use. Nova, help me adjust her into position, will you?
Nova: Right.
Nova nods and gets Sunset to a blank spot in their mindscape.
Nova: All you need to do is stand right here, hold your hooves up like this and close your eyes. The consciousness you have in here will swap back to the body. You'll still be able to hear us just fine. You saw me interact with Fury earlier I'm sure. Our combined magic should have given you access to cast any spell you and I know and then some! I'm sure it also may have had a change on our body too, you saw our memories so you know we can assimilate things like that.
Before Sunset takes full control, Fury chimes in one more time.
Fury: I tend to be in and out, we don't want to backseat too much but uh… try NOT to get angry, when that happens our body transforms to look more like mine and the anger transfers over along with control so...yeah it's probably best to not do that. Even if you might look neat as a tatzl yourself, Sunset.
Sunset nods, listening to Nova's explanation, standing where she's directed. She does grimace a bit at Fury's mention of not getting angry, she may be a goody two-shoes even by Pony standards but she's had her anger issues in the past.
Sunset: I'll... keep that in mind. You two might have to try to hold me back when it looks like I'm getting upset... I'll... admit I've gotten a bit salty just playing games for instance... Seriously, buck Mare-nopoly...
She grumbles mentioning a board game known for testing friendships.
Changing subject though, she turns toward Nova one more time.
Sunset: Just remember, this is still your body. If you need it back at any point, just tell me. I don't wish to be a burden by basically being a hogging roommate here... and just by the memories I received… I know you two have had something of a rivalry. You two play nice, you hear?
The last 2 sentences are spoken like a true mother’s warning to her kids.
Fury: Oh don't worry, we're pros at that… as long as the anger doesn't transfer between all three of us. I'm sure it'll be fiiiiiiine
Fury says with a heavy amount of sarcasm.Nova does take this a bit more seriously though.
Nova: I know… and hey, if there's something we're not ok with you doing, we'll make it known. Besides this is the first time in years you've gotten to have a physical body, you should enjoy it!
She bristles at the comment about her and Fury needing to play nice.
Fury: Fiiiine 'mom'!
Fury responds first, pulling Nova into a hug.
Fury: I'll make sure missy over here doesn't try to override your control. I know how she likes to have it all.
Nova: Why did you just call her....
Nova blushes
Nova: F-fury! Don't make it weird! B-but fine, I promise not to cause… too much trouble here. B-besides, we'll be focused on guiding you through the ins and outs of how our body works! We've got this, Sunset. If you focus hard enough, you can also essentially mute us if need be. We'll see and hear everything you do! Now p-please try to move around, make sure the connection works!
Sunset giggles, after Fury jokingly called her mom.
Sunset: Alright... thanks, both of you. It really does mean a lot to me...
Sunset took a deep breath, closed her eyes and focused on taking control. Holding her hooves up as Nova instructed. It takes just a moment of focus, before Sunset's eyes open again fast, glowing bright white. Outside the body, 'Nova’ seems to start moving again. Slowly getting back up. Changes however begin to appear, Nova's mane and the end of her tatzl tail starts fading into a bright yellow and red. Nova's coat color changes to a shade of turquoise. The tip of Nova's horn turns as yellow-orangeish as Sunset’s coat. Nova's eye color fades from brown to green. The mane changes to reflect attributes of both Nova and Sunset, with the addition of a flame motif. The spark of Nova's cutie mark shifts into a sun, the bolts around it now looking more like flames.
With the shift complete, Sunset still feels a little woozy. Some remaining weariness on Nova's body from performing that spell perhaps. But Sunset manages to find her footing soon enough. She looks around her museum, then at herself. No more transparency, she could feel the wall. She quickly goes to a mirror to see herself, even noting how there was no echo to her voice anymore. Her eyes welled up in joyous tears as the realization hit her.
Sunset: S... sh.... she did it... I... I... I'm alive again!
