Hope at Such a Short Length

by The Lunar Rebel

Rating: teen
Tags: Slice of Life, Dazzlings, Sad, Rarity (EqG), Equestria Girls, Adagio Dazzle
Length: 11528

In a first person narrative, Adagio Dazzle tells a tale of how her and her fellow Siren sisters are coping six months after the Batle of the Bands competition. When hope seems so far away, what can she do to bring it closer?

Adagio Dazzle always considered herself a strong and willful leader for her two Siren sisters, Aria Blaze and Sonata Dusk. She felt as if nothing cold bring her down, even when Aria and Sonata engaged is their routinely fights due to their strong difference in intelligence and maturity.

Even after they were banished to the Human World, Adagio still maintained her leadership role since they were all still capable of creating mayhem among the populace, and feeding off of the negative energies.

However when their powers were stripped during the Battle of the Bands competition when they fought their rival band, the Rainbooms, and lost--that's when her struggle to remain strong was on the lamb.

Six months later, both Aria and Sonata have already fallen into their inner demons of their never ending grief, except for Adagio, who is seemingly emotionless--but clearly expresses that her normally strong will and leadership mentality has pretty much faded into oblivion. When on the verge of losing their only home to soon face the possible terrors of the outside world, more pressure is put on the former Siren leader. She just comes to terms to give in to the fate that her and her sisters have bestowed among themselves without any kind of mercy.

Little does Adagio know that there is a silver-lining, and someone who is willing to help them get by in their now mortal lives. But, this kind of event could only be made possible when Adagio makes an unlikely sacrifice in the will of doing the right thing.

A will Adagio thought she never would've had at all.

Cover-art by: aisureimi
Rated Teen for brief moments of Strong Language and Suggestive Themes.
Proofread and Edited by: Deathtoheaven731 and Izanagi.

Published 2015-03-21 11:40:02 UTC
Last updated 2015-03-21 11:40:02 UTC

Hope at Such a Short Length

    Six months.

    That’s how long it has been since Canterlot High’s Battle of the Bands competition, and when me and my two Siren sisters, Aria Blaze and Sonata Dusk, had our voices and magic stripped away from us by our rival band, the Rainbooms.

    We were so close to victory when that irritating former Equestrian, Sunset Shimmer, took the mic and made the magic of the Rainbooms grow powerful enough to create an enormous spectral Alicorn to destroy our pendants, which of course were the keys to our power and influence. I can’t believe we were dumb enough to try singing after the gems were completely shattered with the knowledge that our power would be gone.

Then again, I guess we really didn’t think that having mortal singing voices would be that awful. Well, considering the fact that our voices were based off of magical gems instead of natural talent, we should have already seen this sort of thing coming.

What have we been doing since our defeat, you ask? Well, as much as we don’t want to go along with it, we’re trying to live like normal humans--but we have been laying low in our semi-rundown house that sits somewhere in the outskirts of Canterlot City. The location is quite isolated so we don’t have to worry about neighbors or pesky solicitors. The only person who knows the location of our home is obviously our landlord.

We have used our voices on him numerous times to avoid paying our yearly debt. We have done the same to other people to take money off of them. Yes, I suppose it could be considered robbery, but at least we were never caught, since the spell we use on our potential victims erases their memories of ever encountering us when it fades away.

Now that our power is gone, we can no longer rob people or influence our landlord to not pay him. We now have to support ourselves like normal mortal girls would. The only way we were ever going to make money was to find….jobs!

Just saying that word leaves a foul taste in my mouth; but it seems to be the only solution. The problem is that it’s going to be really difficult to do this sort of thing because the majority of the city’s population attended to spectate the band competition, and witnessed what we truly were. Word has probably spread to those who weren't there as well.

The silver-lining could be that they would choose not to believe such a tale; and if they didn’t, they could be convinced to find reason for not trusting us. Perhaps I’m over exaggerating, but I’m refraining from taking any chances.

Our landlord will be here the day after tomorrow to collect money from us once and for all, and what are we doing in this sort of situation?

Aria is sitting on the sofa watching Heavy Metal music videos on TV while smoking a bud. Sonata is standing by an open window to get fresh oxygen while holding her favorite teddy bear, and I, Adagio Dazzle, am just sitting at the kitchen table while staring off into space, devoid of emotion and expression.

At first, I maintained my strong will and confidence to show my sisters that I wasn’t going to give in to our defeat. I wanted revenge on the Rainbooms, and I know that Aria and Sonata possibly wanted it too. Aria insisted that she should be the one to decide what our payback should be, but as usual, I denied it to her since I was the one and only leader of our trio, and I always wished for it to stay that way.

As some time went on however, I couldn’t think of any ideas for vengeance. I then finally conceded and asked Aria what her ideas were. Unfortunately, I believe the emotional toll of first being banished from our world, then being stripped of magic was the first to affect her. Something told me that she was already over becoming my second-in-command.

She became more irate, and even more aggressive than usual, that she even struck Sonata once across the face for getting her clothes mixed up with her laundry. I know that seems like a dumb reason for physical abuse, but Aria was definitely in a dark place of mind. At least I was caring enough to tend to Sonata’s partially swollen cheek as she continued to bawl her eyes out at the lingering pain.

Aria later apologized, thankfully, but Sonata has been keeping a good distance from her since. It was a traumatizing experience for her after all, and one she wasn’t going to forget and get over anytime soon. Aria could only counter her own will to hurt someone again by getting in the habit of smoking intoxicants.

I have no idea where she’s getting the money to purchase such unhealthy items, but she goes out every once in a while at night and comes home with unkempt hair, and her clothes are messy and disheveled. Her stride is wobbly and her speech was slurred which clearly indicated that she was drinking illegally. Her breath even smelled of booze as proof.

We were all indeed eighteen in mortal years, and the legal drinking age is twenty-one according to the law of this county. I’m surprised she hasn't been arrested yet.

What was even more disturbing is that she got into the habit of putting her finished smokes out on the skin of one of her arms! I don’t know if it was a stunt to show scars for intimidating her enemies, or as a way to alleviate emotional pain that possibly was being held back.

Sonata seemed to be coping well since she always tries to find a reason to smile. To tell the truth through, I think both Aria and I find it to be a bit creepy.

We both know that she has always been the happy go-lucky airhead of our group, and has a tendency to be a bit childish as well. Her adorable voice and ditzy personality did prove to be useful in deceiving anyone who stood in our way after all--but now, it was practically torture to tolerate.

She has been in her own little world a lot more often than usual, and I can’t decide whether to shrug it off and let Sonata do what she wants, or fear that she’s losing her sanity as well due to mental regression.

As for myself.... well, I can’t say that I really felt anything at all. Yes I did feel anger at first, but it soon faded away into oblivion. I think that I’ve already mentioned this, but somehow I don’t care that I did.

Is that it then? I don’t care about anyone, anything, or even myself anymore? Can this be my way of coping with a great loss?

Who am I kidding? Of course it is.

I don’t really want to admit it, but I felt like I was no use to my sisters, or anything that this world has to provide for any glint of hope in our now limited life spans. The only thing to do now was to grin and bare every day and night. Frankly, there’s nothing to grin about at all considering that each day and night we went through felt like Tartarus. Hell would be the proper human terminology.

Even as I sat there doing literally nothing, besides practically second-hand smoking from Aria’s cigarettes, I can’t seem to find any means of being content. At least I have one solution in mind.

“I’m going to take a bath,” I said simply while I finally got up from my seat and scooted it in.

“Big surprise,” Aria muttered while not taking her eyes of the TV screen. “You practically made the bathtub you’re new home for a few weeks now.”

“But how is she fitting her bed and all her other stuff into one tiny area?” Sonata asked looking quite baffled.

“I was being metaphorical, you tool,” Aria deadpanned.

“Don’t use words I don’t know the meaning of!” Sonata pouted. “And I don’t look like a hammer--or something like that!”

Aria clenched and bared her teeth while giving off a seething growl, which made Sonata flinch a bit and hold her teddy bear a bit tighter toward her body. Luckily Aria didn’t tackle Sonata to the floor to beat the living daylights out of her. Instead, she took in a long drag from her cigarette before calmly exhaling out a thick cloud of smoke. Sonata relaxed, relieved to not face Aria’s wrath.

“I’m aware that what I’ve been doing is a bit...routine; but I might as well enjoy something while we still have a roof over our heads,” I replied a bit firmly, yet I still lacked the energy of expression.

“I guess you have a bit of a point there,” Aria shrugged. “Finding a TV or some smokes is going to be hard out on the streets. Hell, even a nice comfy bed.”

“But I love my bed!” Sonata whimpered on the brink of tears. “I don’t want to give it up for anything! Ever!”

Aria rolled her eyes in annoyance.

“Oh please, Sonata. If you had the arm strength, you could at least carry the mattress out yourself.”

“Why are you always so mean to me, Aria?!” Sonata cried, stamping a foot down.

“Because you’re immature. That’s why,” Aria spat back.

“Enough!” I shouted. My tone sounded authoritative for once, and it took both Aria and Sonata off guard a bit since I haven’t sounded like that for about four weeks, I believe.

I then took a calming breath.

“Look. I know this hasn’t been easy for the both of you, and me as well. But I’m afraid we have to endure this as a secondary punishment for trying to feed off the energies of every single being on this world, and Equestria. Needless to say: we deserved this kind of sentencing from the way beginning.”

“So you’re basically saying we should just give up completely then?” Aria pressed.

I first hesitated with my response. The answer was already obvious, but for the moment, I couldn’t think how I would put it into a proper sentence.

“I’m sorry,” I began. “Really I am, but there’s nothing else we can do to fix the damage that we caused. Our best chance for starting a new life over is to get out of this city and find a new one where no one will know who we are, or what we tried to do. It’s the only hope we’ve got.”

“Terrific,” Aria grumbled sarcastically. “Of course the only problem is that there probably isn’t another town or city for miles from here; and we barely have enough human food to last us for the trip. We’ll end up being road-side carcasses before we’ll even make it.”

“Don’t say such a thing, Aria! Maybe a nice person will give us a lift in their car,” Sonata stated with a slight optimistic smile.

“Yeah; and then possibly take advantage of us later on. You should know, Sonata, that they’re are some pretty messed up people in this world who would just love to do unspeakable things to three homeless teenage girls wandering the side of the streets,” Aria stated, giving Sonata a cold glare.

Sonata gazed down at the ground, sighing sadly.

“It sounded like a good plan to me.”

“Well it isn’t,” Aria implied insensitively, making Sonata shrink back a little more and bringing her back on the verge of shedding tears.

“Look, girls. All we have is each other now. We can’t afford to drive each other off in opposite directions. Survival in the streets and countryside will be cut down without anyone looking out for the other. That means starting right now, I expect both of you to find someway to get along. I know it’s a lot to ask, but please. It’s a chance that we all have to take.”

“But she always insults me!” Sonata complained, pointing an accusing finger at Aria.

“And she always gets on my nerves!” Aria shot back, returning the gesture.

“Well then. Aria, no more insulting Sonata; and Sonata, don’t do anything to annoy Aria,” I stated as I began my ascension up the stairs toward the bathroom. Not really my best choice of words, but it’s all that I could come up with.

“Can I…” Aria began, but I cut her off.

“No, Aria. You’re not allowed to even lay a finger on her. You already did a lot of damage enough as it is by giving her a swollen cheek.”

Aria gently glanced over to Sonata who immediately shied away and avoided eye contact.

“I know I let us all down,” I confessed solemnly. “I was supposed to know what to do at all times, no matter how difficult a situation was. But now it looks as if I’m just a washed up leader. I’m just useless now.”

“That’s not true, Dagi,” Sonata protested. “I don’t think you’re useless at all. You’re a great leader and a wonderful sister as well!”

After a brief beat of hesitation, Aria said, “For once, I kind of agree with Sonata.”

Her face was a mixture of embarrassment and disgust for probably confessing her thought out loud--and concern as well.

“It’s true that I maybe I wanted to take your position as leader of our group; but I regretfully have to admit that you may know more things than I do when it comes to getting things done right. Ugh, that was excruciating to say,” she grumbled.

A small, but sad smile formed on my lips anyway as I turned and faced my sisters.

“That means a lot coming from the both of you,” I said before turning my head away once again to hide my returning frown. “But it won’t change much of anything now.”

I didn’t hear another word from either Aria or Sonata as I continued up the stairs. I should have looked back to see why they didn’t try and give me more reassurance when I know I really liked and needed it--but I just couldn’t find the means to do so, and kept going on my way to the top of the stairway.

I figured that they either that they were at a loss of words due to my indifference to their rare positive influence toward me; or that they did agree with my own self pity, and pretended to be understanding.

Either way, it didn’t matter to me. My outlook on the world was transformed into a grayscale monotony before my very eyes, if that’s the proper way of putting it in the meaning of pure depression.

Once I entered the bathroom, I closed and locked the door behind me before turning around to take in the hand-me-down and slightly unhygienic detail of the place where you tend to your hygienic needs.

The tan linoleum floor was cracked and unpolished. The sink and faucet had lime and calcium build up on the surface and along the ridges of the drain and in the area where the faucet was bolted in.

The bathtub had the same conditions, but I paid it no mind as I started up the water and began stripping out of my clothes. The reason I wasn’t bothered by our bathroom’s unappealing condition was because I was already used to it being this way. Plus, it was like this when we first moved in. Even as humans, we still adapted quickly like how we adapted to sudden changes in the oceans and seas of Equestria.

Once the water was up to it’s intended height, I shut off the faucet and dipped my toe in the hot, yet satisfying liquid before submerging the rest of my foot which was followed up by the other. I then steadily lowered the rest of my body down until the water line was at my mid-torso.

I leaned myself back against the gentle sloped edge of the tub in order to let myself relax. Once every muscle in my body was loosened up, I closed my eyes and took in a calming inhale of air before I gradually let the rest of my body sink below the surface.

I always got the pleasing sensation of the steamy water first enveloping my breasts before it washed over my face and soaked the rest of my hair last. Even now, it was bringing my smile to my face.

As I peacefully rested beneath the water’s surface, I imagined myself swimming in my true Siren form back in the seas of Equestria. Even after thousands of years, I can still remember how the fresh salt water coursed through my gills and how it felt on my spiked mane as I sliced through the surface tension with incredible speed and agility.

Now having long and dense hair, that agility and speed was taken from me. I bet both Aria and Sonata have felt the same way whenever they bathe. At least there is a benefit from it; we actually do look more alluring and graceful when we’re under, and when we surface from the water.

The bad news of course for now having human bodies was that if the water contained any salt or any other uncleansed substance, we could no longer open our eyes under the surface without the risk of harming our sight temporarily-- or permanently. Secondly, and this is just after we lost our pendants: we could no longer breathe underwater.

I guess this is the reason why I’ve been taking baths on practically a daily basis. I’m trying to adjust my now mortal lungs to adapt so I can stay submerged longer than any normal human could possible without oxygen support.

Yet, I’m not sure if I’m making any progress at all. I try to let air bubbles out at a steady pace when needed, but that just goes to show that these new bodies were not meant to live beneath the waves like our old ones--and nothing could be done for a full adaptation.

As the need for air was at it’s peak, the vision of the undersea utopia began to fuzz out as my mind began telling me that getting oxygen back in my lungs was more important than daydreaming a fantasy that I knew was never going to be mine again for real. As much as I wanted to resist and keep my head below water, these annoying human instincts were always competent in their ways of winning.

My head shot out of the water like a torpedo as I coughed and struggled to catch my breath. I leaned my head forward as I continued to take large breaths and exhale air through my mouth despite the weight of my water-logged hair threatening to pull my head in the opposite direction and put it back down underwater before my breathing could return to normal.

Once my lungs were fully satisfied with getting the right amount of air back in them, I pressed my forehead against the top of my bent kneecaps and began to let small, suppressed sobs escape my lips, along with a stream of stinging tears to run down my cheeks before creating small splashes in the bath water when they hit it.

I have no idea what caused me to suddenly break down like that, but it was super obvious that it had to do with being homesick. When I put it that way, it seems a bit preposterous because me, Aria, and Sonata already felt that way when we were first banished here by Starswirl. Now that we were about to lose a second place we could call home, I guess I have to admit to myself that I had just reached a point where I have finally fallen apart.

I guess crying would be the normal way of dealing with a great loss then submitting to domestic violence and drugs; or to act childish in order to forget how horrible the reality of life has to offer. Still, even normal grief can make one spiral down into a dark train of thoughts.

When I finally calmed down, I decided that I wanted to get out of the water now before it got cold. I then stood in the bathtub to wring out the excess water that was still trapped within my thick locks. I should probably giggle or smile a bit at the thought that I replenished some of the water that had been drained from the tub.

Another thought came to mind that my hair would suddenly poof back up by itself into it’s boingy and volumed style when I was done squeezing it. Unfortunately, it instead just continued to hang down in a thick and wavy damp curtain that cascaded down my backside and naturally censored my entire bare ass from the world.

Either way, I couldn’t even crack a smirk even if I tried at this moment. Depression and hopelessness had already got the best of me; and I realize that those two words are basically the same--but as always, I could really care less to revise that statement.

When I finished drying my body off and wrapping it up in a towel, I walked over to the sink and mirror to be greeted with the dull and worn out looking reflection of myself staring and mocking every move or expression I made. This time around, all it did was stare back at me and doing nothing else. It did however express an emotionless face, and that it’s color scheme was devoid of brightness and life. I knew however that this was the refraction of what I truly was and looked like now.

“So this is how it’s all going to be from now on, huh?” I asked it, its mouth mimicking my words perfectly. “I’m just going to be this shell of a former Siren leader for the rest of my life?”

My reflection then transformed into my old, confident self. Poofy hair, neat and stylish clothing, and even a bright color scheme as well.

“That’s what you’re making it want to be,” the reflection replied, bemusedly. “C’mon, Adagio. You’re better than this! You were never meant to be a quitter in the first place.”

“Says a figment of my own imaginative conscience,” I sighed nonchalantly. “I didn’t want things to be this way. But it’s all to clear to me that nothing can be done to make things right and easy again.”

“You could have tried to rob a bank or something.”

“Yeah, but unfortunately I found myself getting addicted to those law enforcement programs where I learned that no matter what the bad guy does in order to cover his or her tracks, they get caught sooner or later. For what we did already at the band competition, we should’ve been arrested; but somehow we didn’t. Then again, the police would never believe in brainwashing magic as a crime anyway, so that got us off the hook. Stealing money from the city or any person inhabiting it would definitely place us behind bars.”

“Well at least you’ll have a roof over your heads,” it remarked with a smug grin. “It might be more convenient than a cardboard box, or whatever homeless people use as means of shelter.”

“Actually, there happens to be a soup kitchen located somewhere in the seedier parts of Canterlot,” I stated a bit firmly yet regretfully. “It’s probably true that the food and the soup itself would probably taste like shit--but it suits what we’ve become among proper society.”

“So you’re just going to give up that easily, and let Aria and Sonata look down on you like two hungry cats gazing down on a single frightened and vulnerable mouse? Do you have any idea what you’re doing?” it asked, sounding mostly like a demand.

I closed my eyes and held back another possible wave of waterwork emotions, but I managed to make a comeback with a firm demeanor.

“They already know that I have let them down,” I seethed. “They somehow just don’t have the nerve to admit it directly to my face.”

“So you’re just going to let them continue to give you false assurance? Mock you for what you’re truly not?”

I hesitated again before I answered.

“I don’t have to take it from them,” I growled. “And I don’t need to take a berating from you!” I shot and pointed an accusing finger at my own reflection.

It looked a bit dumbfounded and shocked for a brief moment.

“Being a bit of a tough titty aren't we? Well at least that’s a small improvement,” it shrugged, and then shook its head “It's a shame however that you’re failing to see that nothing is ever going to get better for you, or your sisters if you are actually going to accept being poor and homeless for the rest of your now mortal lives.”

“Glad we’re finally on the same page,” I snorted.

“Hold on now. I’m only a conscious remnant of the old you--and I have a mind of my own; and I’m sticking with my belief that you shouldn’t concede to this fate that you don’t even deserve. But hey, I guess there's no way in Tartarus I can ever stop you. One thing I recommend though is that you should probably find a way to altar your appearance a bit. Make some kind of drastic change that people won’t recognize you at first glance. Get what I’m saying?”

“Yes. I do,” I replied non-hesitantly and reached into one of the drawers of the sink and pulled out a clean and well-sharpened pair of hair clippers. “And I have the right tool for the solution!”

My reflection glanced back at forth between me and the hair clippers in my hand, wearing a dumbfounded expression for several seconds.

“If I’m correct about my assumption of what you plan to do with those; I’m just going to warn you that it takes many months to almost a year to get your hair like this,” it stated matter-of-factly while caressing it’s own fluffy doo with one hand. “Are you really sure you want to follow along with this sort of thing instead of finding other alternatives?”

“Will this answer your question?” I replied with an angry, but confident sneer as I brought a full curtain of hair to the front side of my body, positioned the clippers at a mid-neck length, and then began mindlessly cutting through every musky and damp lock of hair that I could.

I should’ve really re-considered this idea, but it was thanks to a figment in my own head that drove me into this moment of temporary insanity. I loved my hair too much perform such an act like this...even if I really did need a haircut.

My reflection was cringing at every snip I made, but surprisingly didn’t protest for me to stop. Maybe it wanted to, but was too surprised to even make one word come out. Besides, I knew that would look pretty silly with an uneven hairstyle--even if some humans do prefer those kind of trends. I have yet to this day any understanding of their motivation for such a repulsive look.

When the blades cut through the final strands of hair, my head suddenly felt lighter than it ever was in such a long time. To tell the truth, it was a huge relief for me: yet, it was a physical imprint of what I’ve just done.

“Well...that just happened,” was the only verbal response my reflection could muster after a moment of hesitation. “Still, whatever is done is done. I guess that means you *really** have embraced your fates...and that’s truly sad for me to hear. I guess I’ll just go then and let you and your sisters live such a depressing and pathetic existence. So long,*” it waved before fading away to reveal the real me... but I now looked completely different.

Perhaps completely was a bit of an exaggeration because I still looked miserable. The only real big change was that I now had a short mop of hair that went down to the middle of my neck. I still had the clippers in one hand while my other held my now severed long and precious locks.

The expression I wore on my face now was one of pure mortification.

Both my hands began to shake and tremble before I dropped both the clippers and my hair to the floor. I then planted them on the countertop to support myself as I leaned in closer to the mirror for close inspection of this new reflection.

I either wanted to scream or sob in angst at what I was seeing. I pretty much had the urge to find tape, or any other eccentric means of getting my long and flowing locks attached to their separated strands--but thankfully I managed to come to my senses and calm down. I was indeed particular with myself when it came to getting a new appearance before we began lives out in the streets. The only problem was, I didn’t know what to do with all that excess hair.

The first thought that came to me was to simply throw it away in the garbage. Typical right? But hey, it pretty much symbolized that I wanted to dispose the identity that couldn’t suit a soon-to-be hobo.

There was of course a second option however. Of course, it was something I never would have considered before until now. Something that would not benefit me, or my sisters in financial terms; but it would express a part of me that seemed most unlikely...selflessness.

You see, about a week or so ago while I was reading the newspaper. I came across this advertisement about the city’s boutique hosting some kind of wacky, non-profit hair donation campaign in order for it to make wigs for those in need of a fake coueffe.

I thought it was the most ludicrous idea for something charitable in this whole pathetic little world. Yes, I do have a knack for calling it that. Equestria could beat this place any day. Also I thought, “who would be dumb enough to give their hair up to a bunch of loonies for absolutely making no money off of it?” It just didn’t sit right with me at that time.

Now that I have destroyed my recognizable hairstyle; I had no other choice to admit to myself that maybe if I made a donation to the boutique, I might be granted with the satisfaction of doing a good deed for once--even if I wouldn’t receive any money to help keep our home.

    Grabbing another fresh towel from the rack, I unrolled it and placed it on the floor right next to where my shaved locks laid in a messy clump. I then proceeded to scoop up the hair with my hands and place it in the center of the towel as if it was a tarp. I was also sure to pick up any remaining clumps off of the floor as well.

    To finish off, I got dressed back into my clothes. Luckily I was wearing my favorite hoodie before I came in here, so covering my new hair would be easy. I just had to tie up the strings to completely seal my head up. I then turned the towel that had my hair in it into a satchel that looked like something a burglar would use.

I knew both Aria and Sonata would get suspicious if they saw me carry one of own towels out of the house along with a hood sealed tightly over my head. Luckily if you believe it or not; the roof outside the bathroom window had a gentle enough slope to it that you could just walk on it without the worry of slipping. Even if you did, the drop off was only a couple feet from the ground. I’d say that’s too convenient for both making sneaky escapes, or attempted break-ins.

    As I briskly walked the city streets as it became mid-afternoon, I did what I could to avoid eye contact with each citizen that passed me by. Of course I had to watch where I was going so I focused my gaze high enough to mainly see the middle section of the towering buildings, but to also see the top of people’s heads so I wouldn’t run into anyone by accident, and create a possible scene of confrontation.

    I may have gotten odd looks and suspicious whispers from several people already, but I didn’t let it get to me. At least I still have that trait of when I put my mind to something, I don’t let anything else interfere until the task is done.

    I could thankfully see the boutique coming into sight now.

This was it I supposed. I had thought of reconsidering since I kept telling myself that I would get nothing in return for this good deed...except the thanks of the owners of the business. I had to admit to myself, however, that being thanked might make me feel a bit better about myself. But my self-esteem would still suffer at the reminder that it wouldn’t benefit my sisters, and our home mortgage.

When I walked through the door, I was greeted with the aroma of sweet smelling perfumes, shampoo, and hair conditioners. Faceless mannequins of the female and male stature stood proudly displayed near the windows wearing the most finest and elegant suits or dresses that probably cost a fortune to purchase. Some were even bedazzled with sparkling and rare gems that you couldn’t find in many places. I even wondered if they were even real. Still, they did look pleasing to the eye.

When I saw that no one was at the counter yet, I shyly strode up to it and rung the service bell that was boltly placed next to the left of the cash register. As tempting as it would be to either to try and extract money from it, or take the whole machine completely, it was not going to be worth anything but a jail sentence. I still came to the term that prison would offer a free roof and three meals a day; but being confined in one area would probably tear my sanity to shreds.

“Be with you shortly!” an alluring female voice called in a sing-song fashion from the back room. “Just have to finish folding a few more pieces of clothing before I can make an order for you!”

“Actually. I’m just here to make a hair donation,” I said. “If the campaign is still running that is.”

“Really?” the tone of the woman in back now sounding ecstatic. I then heard hurried footsteps rapidly approaching the entrance to the back door behind the counter before the owner of the unknown voice physically appeared in full body.

I couldn’t believe who it was.

Before my very eyes was a strikingly gorgeous young woman appearing to be either seventeen or eighteen with alabaster white skin, hypnotic dark blue eyes with long, thick eyelashes with a light shade of cyan mascara which rested above each eye. Her long violet hair was absolutely flawless in its appearance with no sign of split ends or tangles. It was perfectly combed and styled with light curled tips on a few ends.

Just like how I first saw her in the school gymnasium, she was wearing her tinted white blouse that didn’t clash with her skin. The same could be said for her dress which was a lighter shade of what the hair was. On both wrists she wore golden bracelets which refracted well in the shop’s artificial and natural lighting.

To quickly sum this all up, it was the keytarist from the Rainbooms--and she was the apparent shop owner!

“I thought that no one would ever be willing to participate!” she continued on, oblivious to my shocked expression. “I’m grateful that you have. You have no idea how much this will mean to the business of my shop! Can I have your name please, darling?”

“Uh..” I only managed to utter.

The owner raised a concerned brow.

“Are you alright? You don’t look as if you’re feeling well.”

No shit, you ignorant poshy bitch! I wanted to scream before possibly messing up that pretty face of hers with both of my fists. You were one of those magical girls that took away our meaning of life! Now it’s your turn!

I then imagined myself retrieving my cut hair from the towel and stuffing it mercilessly into her mouth and pinching the nostrils of her nose closed so she had no means of breathing. I would continue to hold her like this into her struggling and muffled pleads for her life grew weaker and weaker until there was nothing but complete silence that came from her now motionless body. Now she knows how it feels to be unable to live in the sea.

Great, first I have a thought about stealing, then I have a fantasy about committing a cold-blooded homicide on one of the seven girls who led to our downfall. I should probably think about seeing a psychiatric therapist if I can get the money to afford one.

“Sorry,” I apologized while maintaining a calm tone and composure. “I have a tendency to space out a lot, even during a moment of socializing.”

That’s the best lie I could think of, but the girl definitely seemed to buy it since her face relaxed into an understanding smile which I still wanted to wipe off.

“It’s perfectly alright, dear. I can’t even remember the last time I had a moment without my own thoughts trailing off into another area.”

I managed to force a bit of a chuckle because I don’t know if she was either joking: or mocking me for her own pleasure. That seemed illogical though because for one thing, such a behaviour would surely drive away her own customers and make her means for making money go downhill. Actually, that sort of thought almost made me want to laugh for real like a maniac.

“Can we start over?” I asked.

“Of course,” she replied nodding. “I was only asking for your name to put on my list of donors; but where are manners of my own? I’m Rarity. Owner of Canterlot Boutique and Tailor Services.”

“I’m…,” I hesitated for a brief moment to recall if my name was even mentioned around her, or any other member of the Rainbooms. When I couldn’t remember a moment, I went along with my answer.

“Adagio.”

“That’s a very beautiful name, darling,” Rarity complimented with a sparkle in her eyes. “It’s definitely my favorite kind of tempo for music.”

Her expression then became more relaxed and dreamier as she clasped both her hands together and lifted her head upward before closing her eyes to look into her imagination.

“It would be the perfect kind of music to play when I find the perfect man to take to the Senior Prom, or any other kind of formal dance. Oh, it would be such a magical moment as we waltz together to such a perfected melody.”

“Sounds great,” I remarked, apathetically. I might’ve been a little rude there, but I really wanted to get this over with before this quirky fashionista drove me over the edge.

Rarity then snapped herself back to reality before a sheepish expression formed on her face. I small color of light pink appeared on her cheeks even to express her embarrassment.

“Ahem. My deepest apologies about that, but now you see what I mean by when I occasionally lose myself to my own head as well. Anyway, back on track. Is that you’re full name?”

I was about to say my last name, but I caught myself when I realized that Dazzle would be the give away to my identity, and my membership of the Dazzlings.

“Yes. Just Adagio,” I said. “Plain and simple.”

“Alright then,” Rarity nodded as she typed something on the counter’s computer. “Once again, I must thank you for your donation.”

Rarity then looked a bit sad.

“It’s just a shame that no one else could be as charitable as you are.” She then smiled at me. “But I’m glad that you were still willing to make a difference.”

“Yeah. I should definitely feel proud,” I stated a bit indifferently. “I guess I’ll take my leave of you now. Don’t wish to bother you anymore than I need to.”

I then began to turn around to leave, but I was halted when Rarity said, “Hold on a moment, darling. I need to be sure that you’ve gave enough so I can hopefully craft something from it.”

“Alright,” I sighed in hidden annoyance. “Don’t wish to rip off someone in the means of doing something right for a change.”

Rarity gave me a puzzled look.

“I didn’t mean for you to take it personally. You should know I’m very understanding with my customers and clients. Don’t feel pity on yourself if my inspection doesn’t live up to standards. I just take what I can and make good use of it,” she reassured.

I managed to form a small smile on my lips.

“Thanks. I guess,” I only managed to say with a small shrug.

“Don’t mention it,” Rarity smiled and looked down at the towel satchel before readying her hands to unravel it.

She then paused.

“Any reason why your hair is in a bathroom towel?”

“I..uh...showered before I proceeded to cut it,” I lied. “I figured you’d want it clean and oil free; and dry as well.”

Rarity chuckled.

“Well of course I do, dear. Even if it is a bit greasy, I can find a way to cleanse it in the back room, but we don’t have to discuss that topic now do we?”

I just wordlessly shook my head.

“Good. Well, Let’s see what we got here.”

She then began unwrapping the towel in a careful and easy manner as if was fragile. I found it completely unnecessary, but I didn’t wish to be more rude than I have been already. So, I just let her do what she wanted, even if still hold a grudge against her and the rest of the Rainbooms.

The biggest relief however was that she had not even recognized me yet, even with my stunning scarlet eyes and silky, persuasive voice. Then again, I’m sure most of her customers or clients have similar attractive traits just like I do.

If that’s the case, then I’ll be able to get through this thing without any kind of trouble.

When Rarity got the towel fully unraveled, we both jumped back in surprise as my now fully dry and detached hair poofed up when all restraint on it was broken. Don’t ask me how that was even naturally possible considering the fact that I artificially style it in it’s puffy and voluminous way. Could it be that it was naturally curly and big to begin with?

I didn’t really wish to think about it now because one thing's for certain: it was a giveaway to who I was. Even I could tell by the shocked look on Rarity’s face that I was definitely screwed over.

“Oh my!” she gasped. I then cringed and waited for her to berate me before kicking me out. I knew this was a mistake from the start.

“With this much hair, I could craft maybe six products or more!” she continued which made me start to relax and breath a sigh of relief.

“Hey. Wait a minute,” she then said in a very suspicious tone. I froze once again. “I recognize this hair. But how can this be? The last time I ever saw it was…”

“...when you and the rest of the Rainbooms took away our powers,” I finished bemusedly and untied the laces of my hoodie to reveal my now mid-neck length hairdo to her.

Rarity reeled back a little more in surprise. “Don’t even ask what motivated me to cut it. It just happened.”

For the moment, Rarity seemed to be fidgeting a bit and having a hard time coming up with words to say. It was already enough of a hint for me for what she wanted.

“Relax, alright. I’m leaving now,” I began and started to seal my hair back into the towel. “Good thing too because this will be the last time you ever see me, or my two sisters. The only place you might find us is either in a cardboard box or a dumpster bin. But I won’t give the address to either option.”

Once I managed to get the hair back inside the towel, I turned around and hurried toward the door. However when my hand neared the handle, I heard a faint clicking sound coming from where the lock was on the door. When I tried to push it open, it wouldn’t budge. It was locked!

“I’m sorry, darling. But I can’t let you leave. Not just yet,” I heard Rarity say in a calm, but business-like manner. I then quickly spun my head around to see her looking at me a sympathetic look that was creeping me out a bit.

“What do you think you’re doing?” I demanded, raising my voice a bit. “Unlock this door, now!”

Rarity just shook her head sadly.

“You didn’t even give me a chance to at least talk to you after I found out who you actually were,” she said.

“Well you did just now, so let me go!”

“Not an actual conversation though,” Rarity protested.

“It doesn’t matter. It’s perfectly clear that we’re enemies--and always will be,” I hissed.

Rarity looked a little hurt to my satisfaction, but then it reverted into an expression that she was holding her ground.

“Listen to me, Adagio. Just for a minute at least,” she pressed. “I can’t imagine what you and your sisters have gone through after the band competition. But it definitely sounds that nothing has gotten better for all three of you.”

“Well you hit that one right off the bat,” I stated while rolling my eyes. “But why should you care? You’re one of the girls that took everything away from us in this world! It was already bad enough that Starswirl took us away forever from our homes and families. Now our powers too?”

My voice cracked a bit as I felt a lump form in my throat. I then tried swallowing it, but somehow doing that action made the burning tears that were building up behind my eyes begin to leak out. I quickly turned my head away to wipe them off in private.

She’s making you show weakness, Adagio! Don’t let her give in to you anymore! I scolded myself.

As I struggled to get myself under control, I heard the footsteps of her boots gently approaching me from behind.

“I am really sorry for all the losses that you and your girls had,” Rarity said. Her voice close by and just behind me. “But I really hate to have to say that none of this would’ve have happened if you used your voices for creating peace and happiness between others, instead of hate and distrust.”

“Pfft,” I uttered. “You don’t get it, do you?”

“Get what?” Rarity asked, raising a confused brow.

I took a deep sigh.

“You see. There are two types of gems that Sirens are born with. The ever common green which grants voices that will grow off of positive energy; and...well I bet you can already guess the second one.”

“Crimson for negative energy. Correct?”

“Bingo,” I confirmed. “The thing is that it’s so rare that there’s only a one in a million chance for a newborn Siren to get one. If they do get the red one, parents try to teach their young to reverse the magic of their voices so that the color of their gem will change to green. Most of the time it’s successful. But if nothing can be done, then they get shunned by their own parents and soon banished from their own undersea village. That’s basically how I met Aria and Sonata in a nutshell.”

“Oh my,” Rarity gasped while putting a hand over her chest to express her sympathetic disbelief, which I still found a bit annoyingly gratuitous. “You poor dears. How did you girls even manage to survive without the support of your own families?”

“Easy. All three of us did what we were born to do. Cause chaos and turmoil that Discord himself would highly approve of, among the populace of both sea and land-based ponies and feed off of their hatred for survival. Even the Griffon kingdoms couldn’t resist our lovely and influential voices.”

“Discord?” Rarity asked with a raised brow.

“Yep: the spirit of chaos and disharmony,” I explained reluctantly. “If it wasn’t for those cursed Alicorn versions of your principal and her sister who turned him into stone thousands of years ago, we might've had an adoptive stepfather who would praise us for what we did.”

“Oh,” was all Rarity could say to my bemusement.

“Well. I believe that you're fully satisfied now since we had a chat that you so much desired. Now can I please go?”

“Not yet,” Rarity replied shaking her head in disapproval.

“What more do you want from me?” I seethed with rising temper. I was almost ready to kill her for real this time. “You already know what will become of us now, and I gave you a free sob story to go along with it. How much more torment are you going to put me through?!”

I then collapsed on my knees and began to cry angrily into my hands. How could I break like this in front of one of our sworn enemies? Oh yeah, it was because I was already an emotionally weak mess long before I arrived there.  I never expected a simple errand to turn into some kind of interrogation.

As I continued to weep, I heard Rarity’s footsteps walk away from me. The half of my mind was glad that she was finally letting me be--and actually even considering to unlock the door so I could get out. The other half however felt very...different.

It was wanting for Rarity to give me a hug, or some other kind of comforting gesture. It was so unlike me because if anyone invaded my personal space, or even so much made physical contact with my skin or the clothes I was wearing... well…, let’s just say it would get ugly, and fast.

Momentarily, Rarity’s footsteps began approaching me again until they stopped directly by my side. I felt her gentle hand being placed comfortably on my shoulder. I flinched a bit at her touch, but I felt too weak by emotional means to do anything else.

I then looked up to see her expression wearing a caring smile. In one hand, she presented a tiny slip of paper toward me. I couldn’t make out most of the writing since my vision was blurred a bit from tears, but I managed to decipher the print at the top since it was in bold and slightly bigger letters. It read: Canterlot City National Bank.

“What’s this?” I asked while sniffling a bit.

“A check of course,” Rarity replied officially. “I looked up the area of your residency, and I wish you help you and your sisters cover the cost of that place. I’m shocked of how it’s in such a desolate area of the city. You three really been having a hard time for all these months.”

I first exchanged glances at both the check and Rarity’s face for a brief moment of hesitation. I was mentally debating whether to accept or reject the offer. Instead, I questioned it.

“Why would you want to help us? After what we put you all through, I wouldn’t think this would be a way of showing disdain towards either one of us. At least the majority of this city knows how to do it right.”

“It’s true that grudges can be held, darling. But that doesn’t mean that people can’t find a way to let go of them,” Rarity explained. “Besides, you three aren't the first Equestrian beings that came to our world in search of power.”

I took a beat of silent thought to process whom Rarity was referring.

“Sunset Shimmer, right?” I asked.

Rarity just nodded.

“But what does she have to do with this?” I was completely lost to where Rarity was going with this. “She’s now one of your best and closest friends. I don’t see how this has any relevance to us since we’re Sirens; not school bullies that turn into demonic creatures.”

“Let me explain something to you, Miss Dazzle,” Rarity began. I was surprised that she said my last name, but I figured she found it out when looking up our address.

“When Twilight first told us to look after Sunset and help her find the true meaning of friendship after we defeated her, we were truly uncertain if we could really pull it off since it still took us a little while to forgive her for the trouble she created in our lives, and the rift she caused in our friendships’. But, we knew it was the right thing to offer her a second chance. Everybody deserves one.”

“But..” I interjected, but Rarity cut me off.

“No. Let me finish,” she insisted. I just sighed and signaled for her to go on.

“The deed that you girls did was possibly worse than what Sunset could ever pull off; and that any chance of mercy being expressed toward all three of you would be little to nothing.”

I curled myself up a bit and turned my head away to break eye-contact with Rarity so she wouldn’t see me break down for a third time already.

“But…” she added as she gently guided my face back to hers with a delicate push of her fingers on the side of my chin. “It doesn’t mean I’m not going to show it. As Sunset stated: you three are normal and harmless teenage girls; and I believe that just like her--you can turn your lives around and seek friendship out.”

“I don’t see how through,” I said, softly. My tone full of guilt and doubt. “No one would ever want anything to do with us.”

“Which is why I’m opening my door to you,” Rarity said while kneeling down beside me and wrapping one arm behind my back. “I will also persuade the rest of my friends to do the same. If the entire city or world fails to see a different side of you and your sisters, then you can be assured that we will always stand by you. Frankly that’s something Rainbow Dash would say, but I’m always generous enough to speak for her--and to offer help to whoever needs it, and a former trio of Sirens like yourselves are perfect examples.”

Rarity then took my hand and placed the bank check into my palm before guiding my fingers to grip it.

“You really would do this for all three of us?” I asked her both out of uncertainty and hope.

Rarity nodded.

“Of course, darling. I’ve made it perfectly clear already that I want to be a friend to you, and your sisters. You already proved yourself by willing to cut your hair and donate it here to those who need it. Anyone who is thoughtful enough to perform such an act has my gratitude, and an offering of friendship.”

I don’t know what caused me to do this, but I leaned forward and embraced Rarity in a tight hug, sobbing. This time, it was from pure happiness--and emotion that I thought I never have again without my powers. However, this feeling had a warm and fuzzy feel to it. A sensation I never recieved when I got joy out of causing suffering.

I must have surprised Rarity because at first I didn’t feel her hands on my back like I had mine on hers. I was about to pull off to apologize for the sudden action, but she returned the gesture.

“Thank you,” I sniffled. “For everything. I don’t know what would’ve happened to any of us if we were living on the streets or in the countryside.”

“Don’t mention it; and it’s best if you don’t think about those negative ‘what if’s’ anymore. That check should contain just enough to pay your bills--and to even purchase decent food as well for a little while.”

That last statement concerned me.

“Then how will we be able to get by when this loaned money runs out?” I asked with a raised, furrowed brow. “I don’t wish to be a burden on you, or anyone else so we can keep our home and food supply up.”

“Hm,” Rarity thought while placing a finger under her chin before snapping it when an idea finally came to her mind.

“How would you like to become my very first employee?” she asked. “My inspiration for design lines and dress development has been slow recently, and I’ve advertised before about employment opportunities; but just like with the hair donations--there’s just been a massive lack of interest. Also this opportunity pays well.”

Rarity then looked a bit ashamed.

“But if you don’t want to, I understand. Also, I don’t know for certain if you made those outfits for the band competition and your own personal style yourself, or bought them at some expensive clothing shop.”

“You’re absolutely right about me making my own clothing, even designing it,” I assured with a light smile. Saying this also made Rarity perk back up.

“Really?!?” she asked in a squeaky, high-pitched tone that made me flinch a bit. She then regained a calm composure and face.

“Ahem. Sorry, dear. What I meant to ask was how long have you been doing this?”

“Since the very first sewing machine was invented,” I replied with a slight proud smirk.

Rarity looked baffled now.

“But...that was over three-hundred years ago! How can…,”

“I guess I didn’t mention earlier that the pendants gave us our immortality as well,” I interjected. “As long as we kept feeding, our youth would be preserved for millennias’ to come. The energy in your world may not have been the exact same as it was in Equestria, but it miraculously was enough to keep us eighteen in mortal years when we were banished here, thousands of years ago.”

“Oh. Well that makes sense then,” Rarity chuckled a bit nervously, and not knowing what else to say.

“To answer your question about if I’m interested in working for you. I think I’ll like that very much. When can I start? Do I have to fill in an application or something?”

It was funny that I was this enthusiastic about accepting a job when I badmouthed it just minutes ago.

“No application necessary,” Rarity reassured. “I’m already impressed with your talents and eye for fashion. You can also start tomorrow if you wish. You must be quite tired already.”

I yawned as if on queue.

“Heh. I guess so, and it’s still in the late afternoon. I guess it was from my own little emotional rollercoaster there.”

We both shared a good, friendly chuckle.

“I’ll unlock the door now, and I’ll take your donation as well,” Rarity said and took my shaved hair before getting back up on her feet. She then walked over to the counter to flip the automated lock off so I could go home. “Don’t worry, I’ll give you your towel back tomorrow when I open shop at three-o'clock.”

I smiled and perched myself against the door ready to open it, but not before saying one last thing to her before I went for the rest of the day.

“Thanks again, Rarity,” I said. “This is possibly the nicest thing that anyone has ever done for me, and my sisters.”

“It’s my pleasure as always, darling,” she replied with a warm smile. “Tatty bye!”

“Okay. See you soon then,” I said, which I thought would be my official last sentence to her, but one last thing crossed my mind before I left for real.

“Wait. What if your customers realize it’s my hair that you’re using?” I asked. My tone full of worry. “It might ruin your business.”

“I have a variety of dyes and styling tools so no one will know it’s yours,” Rarity assured. “By coincidence, I was already thinking that before you asked.”

“Heh heh. Okay then. Just making sure you actually were. Um. See ya...again,” I stumbled awkwardly, but Rarity just gave me a friendly wave of her hand with an amused expression on her face.

Once I was out the door and back onto the outdoor sidewalk, I had a smile painted on my face and a tiny skip to my step as I made my way to the bank before going back home. I hoped I didn’t keep Aria and Sonata worried about where I went without telling them.

    “I’m so worried that Dagi didn’t tell us where she went,” Sonata fretted as she frantically ran around the house searching every possible, and illogical, place where Adagio could have been. She had been at it ever since both her and Aria managed to enter the bathroom via Aria’s lock picking talents, only to discover that the bathroom window was open and Adagio was no where to be seen.

    To Aria’s own annoyance as she calmly sat on the living room sofa, Sonata was searching the same areas in a constant, repetitive manner.

    “Just give it a rest, Sonata. She’s obviously not in or around the house,” Aria muttered. “Which only means that she’s possibly gone into town either looking for ways to get us some money so we can continue living here; or seeking out our future poor house.”

    “Well which one is it?” Sonata pressed which only made Aria more agitated. “I hope it’s not the second one.”

    “I just don’t know, Sonata. Okay?” Aria hissed. “Whatever her motivation was for sneaking out of the house without telling us, it had to be really secretive that she wanted neither one of us to figure out.”

    “Could it be that she’s working with some kind of spy company?” Sonata asked inquisitively, which of course only made Aria ready to snap at her, but the latter forced herself to remain calm.

    “I think it’s best if you don’t ask anymore questions,” she warned the ditzy blue-haired former Siren. “I’ve had my last cigarette, and you won’t like me if I haven’t had a puff in a while--which of course it has been already. So zip it will ya.”

Sonata gulped nervously and just wordlessly nodded.

“Good,” Aria said with a small, content smile. “Besides, wherever she could’ve gone, it definitely won’t cause her to appear in the front door with some kind of doofy expression painted on her face.”

“Hey, girls! I’m back!” I greeted them as I opened the door, wearing a toothy smile on my face.

“Spoke too soon,” I heard Aria mutter without even looking in my general direction.

“Dagi!” Sonata cheered happily and wrapped me in a tight hug. “We were so worried about you! Why didn’t you tell us where you went? Did you find money for us so we can keep our house? Are you working as a spy? Did you bring tacos? How...”

Sonata’s line of questions abruptly stopped when she finally noticed my new doo.

“Say. What happened to your hair?”

“I...uh,” I began, but I couldn’t think of a reasonable sentence.

“Isn’t it obvious?” Aria interjected while now facing me. “She went to get herself a secret haircut, and wanted it to be a surprise to us when she got back. Good thing to. If it grew out anymore, it might’ve got it’s own gravity field that would pull every fucking thing in this world into it like a black hole.”

“Aria Blaze! Such language!” Sonata scolded.

“Girls, relax,” I said in an unusually calming demeanor which came to the confusion of both my sisters. “I have good news, and great news!”

“Uh. Don’t you mean: I have good news and bad news?” Aria asked with a raised brow.

“Nope. Not at all,” I replied shaking my head while continuing to wear my gleaming smile which I could tell was really starting to freak out Aria; but Sonata was unbothered. She was practically beaming like I was.

“Tell us both of the news!” Sonata encouraged.

“The good news is I got us the money to pay off our landlord,” I stated proudly while displaying the cash to Aria and Sonata who both looked very surprised. Aria even wore an expression if actually being impressed.

“Wow. That’s all I really gotta say,” she put simply. “Perhaps I’ll be able to purchase more smokes with the remaining amount.”

“You should really drop that habit, you know,” Sonata said. “It’s very bad for your lungs.”

“I can’t sing anymore anyway, so it doesn’t matter to me,” Aria retorted while rolling her eyes. “But hey, where did you even get this money, Adagio? Were you actually successful at robbing a bank?”

“Not exactly,” I replied, shaking my head. “Rarity wrote me a check, and gave me a job--which of course is the great news.”

Both Aria and Sonata furrowed their brows in confusion.

“Who now?” Sonata asked.

I sighed, a frown now worn on my face.

“Look, I know the both of you probably won’t believe me, or will be shocked by this revelation. But Rarity is a member of the Rainbooms.”

“Well you’re spot on about both of those categories,” Aria deadpanned while Sonata wore a look of pure terror.

“I knew you wouldn’t take this news lightly. But it’s the exact truth,” I stated a bit more firmly.

“Why would you even consider the aid of one of our sworn enemies?” Aria demanded. “Are you forgetting that she’s partially responsible for the loss of our powers?”

“I miss my voice so much!” Sonata cried.

“Of course I didn’t forget,” I insisted. “And I swear I wanted nothing to do with her at our encounter. But she soon made me realize something. Things don’t have to be hard for us if we try to seek out friendship of others.”

“But everyone in this city hates us,” Aria pointed out. “No one would even consider approaching us on first sight.”

“That maybe true for any other citizen within Canterlot, but not Rarity and the rest of her friends,” I explained. “She told me that she wants to be in her circle of friends; along with you two as well.”

“For realzies?” Sonata asked, looking a bit hopeful, but still showed signs of small restraint.

“For realzies,” I nodded. “I’m sure if you ask nicely, one of them might consider taking you to a place to get some tacos.”

Sonata’s face lit up even more before she brought me into another tight hug.

“Count me in then!” she gleefully said.

“I think I’ll pass,” Aria deadpanned. “I can’t trust either one of them. Plus, I believe that Rainboom put you under some kind of spell with her own personal charm, then you managed to spread it to Sonata. You won’t get through to me though.”

“Perhaps,” I said a bit sadly. “But you’re still satisfied that I’ve found a way to support us financially so we can properly survive in this world as mortals, right?”

Aria hesitated.

“Well. Yeah I guess,” she replied with a shrug. “But it’s going to take me a while to really believe that they can be…friends to us.”

“You’ll get there,” I encouraged her, smiling. “Now, why don’t you join me and Sonata in this moment we’re having. Huh?”

Aria took an even longer beat of hesitation since she wasn’t into the whole ‘soft and fuzzy’ moments.

“Ugh. Fine. But let’s not drag it out more than we need to. I’m just content that we won’t be living out in the streets after all,” she stated and finally, but still hesitantly, joined in our embrace.

“Me too!” Sonata added. “I get to keep sleeping in my bed!”

I closed my eyes contently.

“Me three,” was all I could add to their agreement.

I couldn’t believe what I managed to provide for my sisters and I by just a simple act of cutting my hair and going to donate it. Financial support, potential friends, and a feeling of happiness and harmony between all three of us that we have never had before in our old days.

The future looked bright for us... and at such a short length too!