If Sins Be Forgiven…by Milliardo5ChaptersI. SummerII. The Sadness of a SongIII. Of Tests And ExamsIV. Lessons To LearnV. A Gym and An AlleywayI. SummerSunset Shimmer looked around, flustered as to what she would do next. She sighed as she sat at the foot of her bed, notebook and pen in hand. Thinking early in the morning wasn’t exactly going as smoothly as she thought. She sighed again as she stared down her notebook. She was about to write something in it—more of a journal entry really, but she couldn’t even figure out where to begin. Finally, with exasperation she closed it, got up and put the notebook and pen back into her drawer. It was summer, and Canterlot High wouldn’t be open for another week. Like most students, she had been looking forward to summer, but now all she could think of was what to do with her boredom as summer winded down. “As if it’s not easy enough to adjust to being human”, she spoke out loud to herself. She just stood there, musing for awhile. Sunset Shimmer came from Equestria, a land where magical ponies lived. There she was a unicorn, and a promising student of Princess Celestia, until darkness fell on her and she left her former mentor. Now, after running into Twilight Sparkle and The Rainbooms, she had a change of heart, and has gone to mend her ways. Twilight Sparkle is like her, who came into the human world to retrieve the crown she herself has stolen. Eventually the two became friends, though Twilight since then has returned back to Equestria. “And now I’m stuck here”, she again said loudly. When she came into the human world, she took on a human form though she retained some aspect of herself such as her red and golden hair. “Well, can’t stay like this for long”, she decided, and then she picked up her cellphone and called Pinkie Pie. Pinkie is one of the Rainbooms, a band in Equestria High. High spirited, with pink hair, Pinkie has become one of Sunset’s closest friends. “Oh hi there”, Pinkie answered cheerfully. “I’m going to school”, Sunset announced. “Meet me there.” “School?” Pinkie wondered out loud to her. “It’s summer, Sunset. There’s lots of fun things to do!” Pinkie is not one to be left out when it comes to something fun. The drummer of the Rainbooms, Pinkie has been known to be active, though at times quirky. “I’m bored with summer already”, Sunset explained to her. “I’m going over to the lab to work on something.” Actually she had no idea what to do; it’s just that she’d rather go to school than stay in her room with nothing to do. “All right, I’ll go right with you”, Pinkie said cheerfully. “Great! Meet you there then”, replied Sunset. She put down her phone, then took one look in the mirror before grabbing her jacket and heading out. As she walked to Canterlot High, she reflected on what transpired the past few months. After facing the Dazzlings together with Twilight and the Rainbooms, life has never been the same for her. She mused on that further—life has never really been the same for her, at least not in a normal way. Having come from Equestria, as a unicorn no less, she found the human world to be fascinating. She shook her head at what she had done before, especially before meeting Twilight. She had been mean to people, but that’s because deep down she realized all she really wanted was for people to accept her and look up to her. Which was not the right way to go about things, she thought to herself. She realized that being mean to people only made them fear and resent her. Since that time though much has changed. She has spent much of it repenting and reflecting. Some might call it inaction, since many have noticed she has become a different person, not anymore intimidating or bullying others. In her musing she didn’t notice she’s near the school. She looked up at the building—imposing, yet at the same time lovely. She turned and strode right in. Normally Canterlot High would be brightly lit, but since it’s summer and school’s out, most of the lights are off. A dim light or two lit the hallway though, and she made her way to the lab. Pinkie’s not yet here, she observed as she opened the door. She went right in, closing the door carefully. She began to set up the things she would need, then stopped herself, as she realized she’s not even sure what she’s supposed to be doing. “Hey there!” a cheerful voice cried out. She turned around and saw Pinkie walking right into the lab. “Just in time”, she said to Pinkie as she smiled. “I was about to set up, but I’m not sure what to do.” “So you just went here?” Pinkie asked, still smiling. Pinkie has this unusual way of being perky even when it’s not exactly called for, though Sunset appreciates her ever present good mood. “Bored”, she replied to Pinkie. “Nothing to do at home so I just decided to drop by here. But then I’m not sure now what I’m doing here as well.” Pinkie looked around. Although not the scientific type, she can get busy if she wants to, and in fact she’s always busy. Even when it’s not necessary. And presently she began to make herself busy. “So what are you going to do here?” she asked while she began to tinker at things. Not that she knew exactly what they’re for, but she just held whatever what’s near her. Sunset didn’t mind though, as she went to the lab just to keep herself occupied as well. “Don’t know yet”, Sunset admitted as she went rummaging about the room. She began to take out some lab instruments, arranging them about the table, trying to keep herself distracted and busy. Pinkie went over to look at what she’s doing. “Honestly, I can’t figure out what to do today”, Sunset went on as she stopped and stared at the instruments at the table. “Must be something on your mind then”, Pinkie observed. Sunset nodded. “Could be”, she said. “I can’t figure it out yet, but it might just be boredom.” She just stood there as she continued to look at the table. “So where are the others?” she finally asked Pinkie. “Oh, they’re on vacation”, Pinkie replied. Sunset looked at her strangely, at which she went on, “I mean, their families went away some place to have a vacation.” “All of them?” Sunset asked. “Yeah. Didn’t you know?” Pinkie asked her. Sunset grimaced and mentally wanted to kick herself for not even trying to text them, but the past few days have been so busy for her in the house that she wasn’t able to send even a greeting to any of the Rainbooms. “I’m sorry”, she apologized to Pinkie. “I guess I’ve got too caught up with things to even try and contact them.” Not that I did a good job at doing it, she glumly thought to herself. “Not to worry”, Pinkie said, still cheerful and perky. “I’m sure they didn’t notice it, either.” “Remind me to get some of that perky mood of yours sometime”, Sunset said to her. “Now, let me just figure out what to do with these things…” She started arranging all of the things on the table and worked on it. Pinkie helped out in whatever she could, mindful not to get too much in the way. For a few moments they worked silently. Sunset concentrated while she set up the flasks and test tubes, putting the tubes onto holders so as not to tip them over. She stepped back a bit when all of have been done. “Okay, ready to work”, she said. Pinkie took a chair and sat while Sunset began to work. Again there was silence as she began mixing chemicals up. After a few minutes though she spoke up. “You know, I’ve been thinking about some things lately”, she began. “What is it?” Pinkie asked, her voice serious for once. It’s not usual that Pinkie goes into serious mode, but when she does she will take the time to really listen. “You know how I turned into a she-demon before”, Sunset said carefully. Pinkie nodded, not saying anything. “Well, what if that happens again?” Although she didn’t turn around, she could feel Pinkie silently mulling things. “You know that’s long gone”, she replied to Sunset. “Pinkie”, Sunset said, “all people have their good and bad side. There is good in all of us, and we also have our own faults. What if I lose control all over?” “You just have to believe in yourself”, Pinkie replied in a very natural way. Now that’s a practical response, Sunset thought. She smiled without looking at Pinkie. “Yeah, I guess you’re right…” she simply said in reply. For a good two hours they were in the lab. Sunset wanted to continue on with some of the experiments she anticipated they would do at the start of classes, but she figured she had enough for the day. Besides, Pinkie has her own ideas about science, she thought, smiling as Pinkie began to mix some more chemicals. She laughed gleefully as a small pop came out of the test tube. “I didn’t know science can be so much fun!” she declared as she happily bounded over to Sunset’s side. “Would love to do some more, but I think I’m done here”, Sunset announced as she went over to the sink to wash the test tubes and flasks that she got out. “Would you play with us when the band gets back?” Pinkie called out from across the lab. “Of course”, Sunset replied as she washed the last of the flask. She gathered them all up and went to the drawer, stashing them all in. Pinkie went over to hand her some of the other things still out. “I always would love to jam with you guys.” Pinkie smiled happily. “Then I’ll tell them when they get back”, she said. Sunset was about to tell her that texting them would probably be just as fast, but she stopped herself. Maybe it would be better if Pinkie told them; it would be much more personal. From that point they parted ways, Pinkie bounding happily, as she always does, towards her home. Sunset trudged along towards her own home, quiet but feeling more relaxed. Being in the lab gave her something to do, and she’s glad Pinkie has been there with her. She would have remained like that when she heard someone sobbing. Yeah, that’s definitely someone crying, she thought, even though the sound was muffled. She was presently coming up to some hedges, which were high enough to hide someone sitting on the other side of it. Carefully she went over, mindful not to be too intrusive, just in case. She hesitated though. It’s none of my business really, she thought, but then curiosity got the better of her. Deciding to act more naturally, she pretended to walk right over and turn around. She gasped when she saw who was crying. Sonata Dusk! She thought as she stood rooted to where she’s standing, her mind reeling. Author's Note A work in progress...might be a long one... II. The Sadness of a SongShe wanted to turn around and walk away as quickly as she could, but another part of her compelled her to stay. Cautiously, she went to the sobbing figure seated behind the hedges. Sonata’s face was buried in her hands that she didn’t even notice Sunset approaching her. “Hello there”, Sunset greeted. The spot, she observed, was perfect for hiding: aside from the hedges, there’s a tree nearby as well to provide shade. The shade it gave made the place cool amidst the summer heat. Sonata looked up. Her sobs stopped, though there were still tears on her cheeks. She just stared at Sunset, though from her posture Sunset could see that she’s ready to back off. To where, Sunset’s not sure as behind her was the hedge. “I’m sorry to have frightened you”, she apologized to Sonata. “I was just passing by and heard you crying.” Sonata just sat, her eyes wide. Sunset bent down, extending her hand. “I’m not here to frighten you”, she reassured Sonata. She went to her side and sat. “So what happened?” she asked as she gently sat beside Sonata. Sonata just sat there, not sure at all what to say. Sunset noticed that quickly. “I’m sorry if I am bothering you”, she began. “If you don’t want me here…” But she was surprised when Sonata grabbed her arm. She didn’t expect that. “I…I need someone to talk to…” Sonata’s pleading eyes convinced her she’s in trouble. She nodded for her to go on. “They…they’re horrible to me!” she blurted out, ready to burst out crying again. “Wait, you mean…” Sunset wanted to say more, but one look at Sonata made her realize that saying something might only cause her to cry even more. Sonata understood though what she’s trying to say because she nodded at that. “Adagio and Aria kicked me out!” she said as she hung on to Sunset’s arm. “Aria is especially horrible to me!” Sunset could imagine how bad Aria could be to her; Aria never did like Sonata to be with their little group, that she was aware of, though she wondered what she could do to help her out just now. “Wait, aren’t you guys supposed to be still in Canterlot High?” she inquired. Sonata nodded weakly. Well that’s a relief, sort of, she thought. At least I could help her when school lets in, though that’s still a week away. She then put her hand and patted Sonata’s hand. “I’ll see what I can do”, she said to her. “You’re always welcome to be with us, though I am not sure yet about the others.” Then she thought of Pinkie. She looked Sonata over and nodded. She just knew she and Pinkie would get along. But then she also wondered how the others would feel. Especially AJ and Dash. Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Although overall they’re friendly, they could be outspoken and frank as well. Too frank at times, she thought, sighing a bit. She then looked again at Sonata then spoke up. “I’ll walk you home”, she volunteered. Although she wanted to talk to her more, she also needed to get home, and walking her home would be a good way to get to talk to her more. But Sonata shook her head. “I can get home fine”, she said. She looked at Sunset and smiled. “You’re nice to talk to me.” “Well, it’s the least I can do to someone in need”, she said. Ever since she has decided to change for the better, she had been looking for a chance to be of help, and now she seemed to have found that chance. “But we were mean to you…I was mean to you”, Sonata said, genuinely surprised that Sunset could be so casual in talking to her like that. “Hey, you don’t know what I’ve been through”, she said, half jesting and half serious. Sonata just stared blankly at her though. She stared back, then smiled a bit. “Long story”, she said to her. “But you’ll tell me”, Sonata said. “I will, but that’s for another time”, she promised. She looked up. The sun was high, and she realized it’s nearly lunch. She got up, and Sonata stood up together with her. “You sure you don’t want me to walk you home?” But Sonata shook her head again. “I’m fine”, she repeated. Sunset decided to drop it then. Whatever Sonata’s going through, she will speak out in time. She took out her smart phone. “I’ll get your number, in case we need to talk”, she said. Sonata smiled broadly, the first time she ever did that day. “Sure thing”, she said, and gave out her number. She also brought out her own phone and took Sunset’s number, which she happily gave. After that they parted ways, and Sunset went towards her home. The incident left her reflective again though. Just a few months back she needed friends herself, and now she’s on the verge of helping out one. That night, in her room, she began reading her text messages. Pinkie texted and said that the rest of the band might return from their vacation. She also received a text from Rainbow Dash confirming what Pinkie just announced. She took out her notebook, opened it, and prepared to scribble her thoughts into it. Definitely what’s on her mind was what happened today, especially the one with Sonata. She shook her head a bit to clear her thoughts, and then she thought on how to exactly write her thoughts. She began writing, pausing every now and then to think what to write, then continuing on. When she was finished with her entry, she read it over. Satisfied, she closed her notebook and put it back into her drawer. Before going to bed, she thought of the big day ahead of her as she began to anticipate the group coming back home… Morning, glorious morning! That’s the first thing that came up on Sunset’s mind as she woke up. She got up, looked out the window, and saw the sun already out. She looked at the clock beside her bed and saw that it was 7 a.m. As she dressed for the day, she thought of the things that might happen, but quickly pushed them aside. She doesn’t want to get her hopes too high. She’s not even sure how the group will react to Sonata. As she prepared to go down for breakfast, her cellphone rang. She checked and saw that it’s Sonata sending her a message. She read a little bit loudly what she sent. “Please meet me where I was yesterday”, she read. Now what could it be? she wondered. She replied that she’ll have a quick breakfast and be on her way. She went down, got her breakfast, and quickly got out for her meeting with Sonata. She went to the place at a fast pace, making a short sprint every now and then until she got there. She saw Sonata seated at where she found her yesterday. “So, what’s up?” she asked as she went towards her and sat down. Sonata looked down, visibly worried. “I’m afraid of Adagio…you know what she can do…” she sounded as worried as she looked. Sunset nodded. In the time she saw Adagio, she saw what she’s capable of. She saw that she’s manipulative, and had no remorse in whatever she did. She’s worried about that one—it’s one thing to do wrong. It’s another thing to own up to it and admit to what happened. Adagio doesn’t seem to be the type to just surrender and admit to her mistakes. She’s merely retreated to make another plot, she concluded. But right now she couldn’t be sure of that. She just looked at Sonata, who looked helpless and dejected. She knew one thing: her work’s cut out for her, she decided. She has committed herself and she’s going to see Sonata’s case through. “I’m with you on this one”, she declared to Sonata. Sonata looked up, her face brightening. “You really mean it?” Sunset nodded at her question. She smiled, and Sonata smiled back. “I’ve never met someone like you before…” Sonata’s voice trailed off, not sure of what else to say. “The group should be back home today…well, most of them at least”, she said as she mentally counted on who would be coming back home that day. “And Pinkie’s here, too. You really have to meet her.” Of all the people in the Rainbooms, Pinkie would be the most accepting. Pinkie never had much of a reservation about anyone, which could be both a good and a bad thing. This time though it might be good, Sunset was thinking. “I’ll tell her to go here”, she said, whipping out her smart phone and texting Pinkie. She decided to just tell her to get to the spot they’re in, purposely leaving out any mention of Sonata just yet. “Do you think she’d welcome me?” Sonata asked, unsure of the situation. “Pinkie’s cool”, she assured Sonata. “In fact, I think you’ll get along with her real well.” Presently Pinkie Pie came along. One can see her even from a long distance: pink, curling hair with matching dress to boot. Her personality comes out through and through even just by looking at her. Today was no different as she came up and smiled. “Oh, hi there!” Pinkie waved even from a distance. Sunset waved back. Sonata merely smiled and gave a small wave. Pinkie came up to them much faster now, briskly walking as she covered the last distance towards them. “I see we have someone”, she said excitedly as she sat down in front of Sunset and Sonata. Sunset cleared her throat to get Pinkie to quiet down a bit. “I think you met Sonata already”, Sunset told her, skipping any formalities. Pinkie took Sonata’s hand and shook it. “Oh, you’re with the Dazzlings, right? You sing real good”, Pinkie said. Sunset looked at her oddly, wondering if Pinkie already forgot about what happened, though she thought of it better. Knowing Pinkie, she can see that she’s trying to be as optimistic as she can be. And it seemed to be working, as Sonata became more warm and open to Pinkie. While all this was happening, Sunset took the time to study her more closely. Of the Dazzlings, Sonata’s personality almost closely matches Pinkie. Outwardly both of them were bright and sunny, though they can be introspective and actually think things through when they wanted to. That’s what she saw in Pinkie, and she’s also seeing that in Sonata as she sat there, being quiet and reserved. It was a different Sonata that she’s seeing then. After a few pleasantries, Sunset finally thought of getting down to business. “Well, maybe it’s time we learn more of what happened”, she then, looking directly at Sonata. She sighed, again looking dejected, though now Sunset noted that it wasn’t as deeply as yesterday. “It’s not going to be long”, Sonata began, “but I always thought that they were my friends…” She began her story, as Sunset and Pinkie listened in careful attention… Author's Note More about this chapter--initially I wanted to show a different Sonata here, one who has more depth and a different, more pensive and caring side. I realized though that it might go overboard and make a Sonata that's barely recognizable, so I held back just enough to still show her plight without making it look like she's one clueless girl. III. Of Tests And Exams“It happened just after we were defeated”, Sonata began. Sunset listened attentively, but although Pinkie was also listening with attention, she seemed ready to burst out. Pinkie has always loved a good story, and she can never listen long enough without adding some of her own comments. This just happened to be one of those moments. Hardly anything has been said yet, and Pinkie excitedly commented, “I knew something happened after it!” Sunset looked sideways at her but decided not to speak up yet. Sonata went on. “We went to a small room, sort of like our quarters, and that’s when things started”, she continued. “Adagio was raving mad, very much angry. She wanted revenge. I didn’t mind it. I knew it was over, and at least I could get some rest. That’s when Aria went over to her, pulled her aside while I sat down to rest.” She stopped a bit to control her emotions. Pinkie quieted down a bit, for which Sunset was grateful. “I closed my eyes, feeling real tired, when I felt Adagio and Aria standing over me”, she continued on. “They both had their arms crossed, and Adagio looked down on me…” Here her voice trailed off as she began to lose words. Sunset felt sorry for her. She knew what she’s going through, in a way. Pinkie wasn’t smiling now. She put her hand on Sonata’s shoulder. Sonata just sat there, looking terribly sad. “I..I can’t believe what she just said to me…” her voice was quavering now, tears again falling down. “She…she said that it’s all my fault…that if it’s not for me, we could’ve won…” “She’s mean”, Pinkie commented. Although Pinkie was trying to be sincere, the way she said it was quite funny. At any other time it would’ve made Sunset laugh, but she held back as she could see how down Sonata looked. “I’ve been with them for so long…I followed Adagio so much…” Sunset put her hand on hers to comfort her. She looked at Pinkie. Pinkie looked back as her hand was still on Sonata’s shoulder. “Dear, we’re here for you”, Sunset said to her. “Adagio may not care for you, but you can count on us to be there when you need us.” “It’s not just Adagio”, Sonata stammered. “It’s more Aria…she never did like me from the start…and now she has found reason to take me out of their group…” “You never did belong there”, Sunset said without hesitation. “You deserve better than them. Trust me. There are a lot more people out there who cares for you.” “Dashie would be back here this afternoon”, Pinkie said, now starting to perk up again. Sunset nodded in acknowledgment. “I think we should wait for them and let them hear her out”, she decided. “I’m sure they’ll like her!” exclaimed Pinkie, although Sunset wasn’t quite sure yet about that one. She knew though that it’s test for her as well as for Sonata with what she’s going through. At that point though she looked at Sonata. She realized that beneath her cheerful exterior lay a caring person, and she can see it the way she expressed her sadness over what happened. Perhaps there is hope in her… The three of them decided to get something to eat while waiting for Rainbow Dash to come. Pinkie texted her, as well as the others. She reported that Rarity as well was on her way home. Applejack was still on her family’s farm but should be arriving soon as well, while Fluttershy said she’d be coming over tomorrow. They walked along to one of the canteens near the school. During school days it’s usually full of students, but now because of summer only a few were inside. They got a table without any problem. Sunset looked around to see anyone familiar, but she didn’t see anyone. Which might as well be, she thought. She wondered what would people’s reaction be if they saw her and Pinkie with Sonata. Not that she really mind what others thought. She looked at her watch. Rainbow Dash would be arriving at 1 p.m., and so they still had an hour to go to get some lunch. While eating Pinkie talked with Sonata, and both began to realize that they’re almost alike in personality. Sunset smiled. She knew that Pinkie would get along with her very well. She hoped that the others would as well, considering that Sonata had been one of the Dazzlings. Pinkie snapped her out of her reverie when she began to tap her hand with her finger. “We both like parties!” Pinkie gushed. She could see Sonata now getting to be how she was before—very much like Pinkie, Sonata can be perky as well. Some thought that she’s an airhead, but now Sunset could see that she probably used her perkiness as a means to hide her true self. But she would have to know more about that later. “Pinkie, text and ask her where she is, and tell her we’re here at the canteen near school”, she advised. She turned her attention to Sonata then. “So how are you now?” “Much better”, an appreciative Sonata said. Pinkie gave a thumb’s up as she sent the message through, and then waited for a reply. “That’s great”, Sunset said simply. “Dash’ll be here soon, and I’m sure she’d want to meet you as well.” Although she hoped so, she’d not totally sure as Rainbow Dash can be so direct, and sometimes this rubs off on other people the wrong way. Still, she really think that the group would eventually come around to becoming her friends. Pinkie’s phone rang and she looked at the message. “She’s on her way here”, she said to both of them. Sunset could see that Sonata was a bit nervous, though Pinkie was there to keep her occupied. A few more minutes passed by before Rainbow Dash arrived. She went in, looking radiant after a few days out with her family. Rainbow Dash can be described as flamboyant, and it shows: her hair has the color of the rainbow, from red, blue, orange and all the other rainbow colors. And hence her name as well. “So how’s it going?” she asked them as she went in, then stopped dead when she saw Sonata with them. “What’s she doing here?” she asked pointedly. Sonata sank back into the corner, but Sunset beckoned Dash to sit. “That’s why you’re here”, she said to her. “Sonata has something to say, and it’s good if we could listen.” She nodded at her, and Sonata told the story again for Rainbow Dash to hear. After her story, Sonata looked at the group. “Well, I don’t know about that”, Dash said, still unsure about it all. “Listen, Sonata’s the least problematic for us even then”, Sunset came to her defense. “I was actually hoping sooner or later she’d turn around.” That was partly true; she never saw Sonata as really mean, unlike either Adagio or Aira. “I only joined them at the time because I was fooling around with that pendant, and Adagio asked me to join”, she explained. “Well, I guess two magical types around isn’t such a bad thing”, Dash conceded. “So you don’t have any plans to get back to Equestria, or whatever you call that place?” she turned to ask Sonata. She shook her head in reply. Dash seemed satisfied. She took her drink and sipped on it. “I’m cool with it then”, she said, contented. Sunset was glad things turned out well. She began to think of her only other hurdle, Applejack. She doesn’t foresee any problem with Fluttershy, and Rarity would more likely give her own fashion advice to Sonata than anything else. Applejack though was the only other one who can be vocal about her dissent. For now though it was a small victory. “So, when will band practice?” she asked, changing the subject a bit. “Maybe when everyone gets back”, Dash said. “I think most would be here tomorrow since classes start next week.” Sunset’s face became serious when she heard that. Dealing with the group was one thing, but she couldn’t imagine how it would be once Adagio and Aria saw Sonata with them. Sonata must have felt it as well because she then shot a glance at Sunset. Although Sunset noticed it, she continued on, partly to ease Sonata’s fear. “I think we can bring Sonata along for the jam”, she said as she looked at her. Sonata seemed excited, and Pinkie joined in. Sunset could see they’re turning to be close friends. “Why not?” Rainbow Dash agreed. Sunset looked pleased. “It’s settled then. You’ll join us for band practice this Saturday, right?” she said to Sonata. She hesitated, but Pinkie egged her on, until she relented. “You better tell the others about Saturday”, Sunset motioned to Pinkie. Pinkie had been the designated messenger of the group, throwing back and forth text messages. Not that the others don’t want to do it themselves, but Pinkie simply loved the job she’s asked to do. “Aren’t you going to meet them tomorrow?” Dash asked curiously, but Sunset shook her head. “Too much meeting. I think Saturday’ll be fine. Besides, they’re still tired from their trips.” But in reality Sunset was just holding it off, just in case things get heated with Applejack. “Guess I’ll go home and rest then”, Rainbow Dash said as she slid off the chair. The others stood up as well, ready to leave. “Thanks again”, Sonata said to Sunset. “Everyone deserves a second chance”, Sunset said, taking her hand. “I got a second chance, and I’d like others to have that as well.” Sonata beamed at that. Pinkie came up from behind and joined them. “I’ll take you home”, she offered to Sonata. From the canteen they parted ways, each one walking to their home. Sunset walked home alone. She loved to walk home alone, giving her time to reflect, which was what she had been doing for the most part, making her at times introspective. Now she had to ready herself for the group’s meeting the coming Saturday. That night, before going to sleep, Sunset checked her smart phone for text messages. Pinkie sent a message saying that Sonata will sleep over with her for a few days. She smiled, knowing that the two will get along real well. She also saw a greeting from Fluttershy as well as Applejack and Rarity. Rarity apologized for not being able to show up, while Fluttershy and Applejack said they’d be arriving tomorrow. She put her phone by the stand beside the bed. Saturday seemed so far, and yet so near. Friday brought nothing much in activity. Sunset mostly stayed at home, cleaning the house for a change in pace. Every now and then she would receive messages from the others. Pinkie and Sonata have gone out to the mall. She wondered how would people react seeing her with Sonata, but then Pinkie wasn’t the sort to worry about other people talking. Rarity also went shopping, as she always did, looking for clothes to wear for the coming school year. As for Rainbow Dash, she was out on the school field with the soccer team as they prepared for the coming school year as well. Last she saw Flutterfly and Applejack’s messages, they were on their way back to Canterlot. After checking on her phone, she went back to house cleaning. Every other day she makes sure that the house would be clean, going about the living room and vacuuming the carpet there. While she cleans the house she had her mp3 player hook up to the speakers and music playing. Her musical taste was eclectic, ranging from rock to pop and even 80s music. She didn’t know why she liked music from the 80s, but she just listened to it. Every now and then she also listens to classical music and jazz. Music also served as her distraction—she didn’t want to think about the coming day, so she just let music distract her thoughts, at least for the day. She paused for a moment, listened to the music, which happened to be her favorite song. She let herself be moved by it, and soon she was dancing to it, letting the moment take over. She just let herself get lost into it, not letting worries get to her. It’s a moment she wished would go on forever. When it ended, she was tempted to repeat the song, but then realized there was much more to be done. She just smiled, and humming the next song that played, continued her work. Saturday finally came. Sunset woke up early, and then texted Pinkie to confirm if everyone would come. Nobody objected or gave any reason not to go, so she told everyone to go to the school’s music room. Her favorite song was still in her head as she dressed. She stood for a moment, unable to decide what to wear. Finally she took her jeans, a black shirt and then she put on her boots. Although she could still hear the song in her head, she focused more on what needed to be done. For one, they do need to rehearse. She wanted to have them rehearse during summer but relented when most of them said they had other plans. She also wondered if anyone had seen Pinkie with Sonata yesterday. Most likely some saw them together. No doubt Adagio is fuming right now, she thought, but she didn’t let that bother her just yet. She needed to settle the matter about Sonata and what to do with her situation, though she could also see that Pinkie had already made up her mind and had formed a friendship with her. She got to school and immediately headed for the music room. She had left her guitar there, thinking that she’d be able to use it with the band for summer. Going in and turning on the lights, she took her guitar, found her small amp nearby, and plugged it in. She tuned it while waiting for them. Sunset had told Pinkie to come in last together with Sonata, so she wasn’t expecting them to be there early. The first one to come in was Fluttershy. She greeted Sunset in her quiet, gentle way. “Hi there”, she said, “I brought you a present.” She handed to Sunset some chocolate she had bought. Fluttershy was much like her name—quiet, almost shy, but can also be fierce when she wanted to, which Sunset thankfully thought wasn’t that often. Fluttershy also played the cymbals for the band. Next to come in was Rarity, who immediately went and hugged Sunset and Fluttershy. The band’s keytar player, Rarity was also very much into fashion, and it shows not just in her clothes, but even in her manners. “Missed you, darlings”, she said to them as she sat down. “I’ve had the most fabulous time in New York! Lots of places to buy from. Would love to get back there again.” “I’m glad you liked it there, Rarity”, Sunset commented. “Very much”, she nodded. “If it weren’t for school I would’ve stayed there longer, but at least I got new clothes.” “Oh my, I would love to see your new clothes”, Fluttershy said in her usual quiet way. “You will when school opens, dear”, she promised to Fluttershy. While she was talking, Rainbow Dash arrived. “I’m so ready to practice!” she said. She then looked around. “Where’s Pinkie?” “She’s on her way here”, Sunset replied. Rainbow Dash took her guitar and found her amp, then sat down to tune it. Sunset got hers as well and joined in, tuning their guitars together. “What will we play today?” Dash asked as they finished tuning. “Something heavy? I’m not sure. I have my favorites…” Sunset paused as she thought of what might be a good song to play. She then began to play a few notes on her guitar, softly strumming it. Rainbow Dash nodded her head in time with the beat. “That’s a nice song”, she said approvingly. “It’s an 80s song. You probably wouldn’t know it unless you really search for it. I found them on the internet while searching for videos”, Sunset explained. “You have class, dear”, Rarity also approved. “Most people only go for what’s on, but you took more effort in discovering your own music.” “Thanks. I try to find the music that’s for me”, Sunset replied. “And as it should be”, agreed Rarity. Applejack came in at that time, smiling at them in her own, simple way. The group’s bassist, Applejack can be stubborn at times. She liked to wear her cowboy hat, which she kept clean often. People mistake her for being too rural, though that’s far from the truth. “So, how’re you all doing?” she boomed. Applejack can be loud at times, but that’s what the group likes about her. At times as well she and Rainbow Dash had some friendly competition among themselves. “You’re late”, Rainbow Dash said as a joke. “I am not!” AJ retorted. “And where’s Pinkie? She’s supposed to be here now.” “She’ll be here soon, she just fixed some things in her house”, offered Sunset. “I’m here!” A cheerful voice just called out. Applejack put a palm on her face. “I spoke too soon!” she said in mock dismay. I hope this mood lasts, she thought as she saw Pinkie’s pink head poke through the door. “Hello everyone!” she called out, excited to see them all back together. She waved at everyone in the room. Applejack stood a bit far off, adjusting her bass guitar when she heard Pinkie’s voice. Turning, she saw Pinkie, and someone else with her. The room turned a bit quiet as everyone stared at the person with Pinkie. “Everyone, I guess you know who she is”, Sunset said as a way of introduction. “You know darn right we do!” AJ said, her voice a bit thick. “So what in blazes is she doing here?” “That I can explain”, Sunset said, and she recounted to them the day she found Sonata. When she finished, Applejack was scratching her head. “I don’t know…” she said, still skeptical. She went forward and shoved her face near Sonata’s. “I have some questions for you…” Rarity though went to her before Applejack could ask any further. “I’m welcoming you, darling”, she said, taking Sonata’s hand. “We have so much to talk about fashion.” “Oh, she likes clothes so much!” Pinkie chimed in. “Do you now, dear?” Rarity asked her. Sonata nodded. Rarity clapped her hands in delight. “Then we really have to talk together!” Shyly, Fluttershy also went to meet her. “It’s so nice to meet you”, she said. While they were around Sonata, Applejack approached Sunset and took her aside. “You buying any of this?” she pointedly asked her. “She sounds sincere enough”, was all Sunset said. “I guess we need to quiz her some more”, Applejack said to her, and Sunset just shrugged. Applejack turned to Rainbow Dash. “You with me Dash?” she asked. “Hey, she’s cool, don’t worry”, was all she said to Applejack. “We will see”, she said, then went over to Sonata. “Will you mind if I ask you some questions?” Sonata’s smile disappeared, though her eyes were much more joyful now than they were the day before, noted Sunset. “Oh yes”, was the short reply of Sonata. “So why did you leave the Dazzlings again?” she asked her. “I couldn’t take Aria anymore. She’s just mean to me. And I thought Adagio would come to my side, too”, she answered. “You sure that’s all?” Applejack pressed on. Sonata nodded, though Applejack wanted to find out more. “I heard you’re not a good fit for them”, she went on. “What does that exactly mean?” “It means I don’t belong with them?” Sonata said, unsure of what to exactly say. “I do wish it weren’t so, though…” She again looked downcast as she said that. “Well, why don’t you go ask them then?” “But they’re so mean to me, especially Aria!” she burst out, objecting to the thought. “She can always be with us here”, Pinkie suggested. “I suggest that she does stay with us, at least for awhile”, Sunset spoke up, partly to settle the matter and partly to stop Applejack’s interrogation. Applejack looked around. She realized that the group seemed made up about her, or at least she could tell Sunset was as well as Pinkie. She also knew that Fluttershy would accept her without hesitation. Rarity looked to be that way as well, and though she’s not too sure about Dash, she could see it was only a matter of time before she would join them. She realized that she had to drop the subject, for now. “All right, guess you all have made up your minds”, she finally said, “but I’ll be keeping an eye on her, just in case.” She took one last look at Sonata, then went back to her guitar. “Oh, you’ll really like it here with us”, Pinkie said cheerfully at Sonata. She then went to her drum set, taking out her drumsticks which she brought along. Sunset just stood there, thinking about what happened. She knew that AJ’s not going to let up on her, unless she’s convinced of Sonata. For her part, Sonata took one of the chairs nearby. Sunset went over to her. “Can you sing?” she asked her. Ever since their pendants broke, she didn’t know how she was or what else happened to her. Sonata wanted to shake her head, but Sunset had thought up an idea. “I got it—I’ll give you some voice lessons. It will be fun. You don’t have to worry about it”, she told her. “That would be nice! Thank you!” Sonata hopped with glee. Sunset smiled at her, then went to her place in the band. Pinkie signaled for them by tapping her drumsticks together, and then they began their jamming. They jammed for an hour. Sunset was glad to have the Rainbooms back together. She had recently tried her hand at composing, and can’t wait to share with them her work. But that had to wait just yet—school was just a day away, and she wondered how things would be. She also had not heard from Sonata if Adagio and Aria would be back at school. Sonata did affirm that she’d be studying there again, and Sunset told her she could stay with the group for as long as she liked. “Well, see you guys on Monday”, she told them as they packed up their instruments and got ready to go. “I can’t wait for school to start!” Rainbow Dash said. “And why would that be?” Pinkie asked. “I’m gonna get to as many sports as I could, and then we’ll show Crystal Prep what we can do!” declared RD with a stomp. “Oh good! I can get the party planning committee together to plan for events!” Pinkie said with excitement. “Excuse me, but who are you with in that committee again?” Applejack asked. “I have someone with me now—she is!” Pinkie pointed at Sonata. Applejack groaned, but Sonata raced up to Pinkie and they began bouncing up and down. Sunset just shook her head, smiling at the sight. After leaving Canterlot High, they called out to each other to say their farewells as they went to their own homes. That night, Sunset opened her notebook and began writing. She sighed. I really have to get that tablet I saw in the store the other day, she thought. She tried to figure out what she could do though to buy it. She shook her head and then went back to what she was writing. She sank back to her chair when she was finished, then took the notebook and hid it inside the drawer. Monday. School would be starting again. She wondered how things would go from the start until the rest of the year. Author's Note The longest chapter I've made so far. There is a portion here as well where, while listening to A-Ha's "Take On Me", I had an inspiration and made that part. Spot where that part is... IV. Lessons To LearnMonday came so fast that Sunset almost never made it to school. She looked at the clock: 6 a.m. She was still sleepy, and the bed wouldn’t let her get up. Not that she wanted to. She was about to go back to sleep when she realized it’s the first day of school. Startled, she immediately got up, and tried to take the few steps to the bathroom. It was total agony for her, but thankfully she managed to somehow make it. How could I even forget this day? She thought as she fixed her hair up and brushed her teeth. She then went out and opened the cabinet, looking for something nice to wear. She got a black pair of jeans and a blue shirt. Walking down towards the kitchen, she thought of the day ahead. Of course, there would be classes. That’s a given. She wondered who will the teachers be. Naturally as well she’d see the group. And Sonata. She wondered if Adagio and Aria would be around, since she hasn’t heard from Sonata if they’d be back at school. She drank her coffee while waiting for the bread to toast. All things considered, she reasoned, things had worked well so far, though Applejack still had reservations about Sonata. It will straighten itself out, she figured as she ate her toast and then went out to walk towards school. A couple of buses passed her, headed towards Canterlot High. She didn’t notice them as she walked on, lost in thought. A few more minutes passed before she looked up and saw the school. Unlike last Saturday, now the campus looked busy with people either milling about or else walking straight in. The group agreed to meet at the school canteen later, so she didn’t expect to bump into any of them unless they’re going at the same time she did. She did see Flash though. Flash Sentry, one of the boys at school, had become one of her friends as well. Perhaps not as close as the Rainbooms, but still they had been more than just mere acquaintances. “Nice to see you”, Flash greeted. Flash looked especially handsome that day, his blue hair neatly done. “Hey there”, she greeted back. “So how was summer?” he asked as she stopped to chat. “It was mostly so-so”, she replied. “I did a few things, but then got bored.” “That’s too bad”, he said. “I didn’t get to see you back then.” She was about to comment that Canterlot’s a big city when she heard an excited voice greet her. “Hey there!” Pinkie greeted. She was smiling broadly. Sunset made a little wave, then saw that she was with Sonata, who smiled and also waved at her. “Hey, I see you made a new friend”, Flash said as the two walked towards them. “She’s really nice, once you get to know her”, was all she said as Pinkie and Sonata came over towards them. “I can’t wait for tacos!” Sonata said excitedly. “Tacos don’t happen until tomorrow”, Sunset remarked. Sonata’s excitement died down a bit. “Oh”, she said, a bit disappointed. “Don’t worry, we’ll get busy like we planned, and you won’t notice that it’s Tuesday already”, Pinkie assured her. Taco Tuesdays were something of an event in Canterlot High, which most of the school looked forward to. Sonata beamed at Pinkie when she said that. “So, you guys ready?” Sunset asked them. “Yes, oh yes!” both Pinkie and Sonata yelled, clapping their hands as they did so. “Well, looks like it’s time to go in”, Flash announced, and they all went together inside. “So, what’s your committee’s plans?” Sunset asked Pinkie as they went inside. “Oh, we have lots of things in store”, Pinkie said simply. “It’s going to be great, that’s for sure!” “We’re going to decorate the gym with balloons later this week”, Sonata added. “Sounds like a plan”, Sunset nodded. “Well, see you guys later.” She waved at them as she went to her class. The others waved back as well as they headed off to theirs. For the most part the group never had much of a chance to talk between classes as they rushed about going from one class to the other. Every now and then Sunset would catch a glimpse of some of them, but there wasn’t any chance for any of them to just as much as stop and chat since all of them were more focused on getting to the next class. And besides, we’ll meet at lunch anyway, she reasoned as she went to her next class. The whole morning passed uneventfully, though some moments in her class had some sort of excitement. Sunset was looking forward more to lunch than anything else though. And it’s not like there’s much to do at first day of school, she observed dryly as most of her teachers simply gave the introductions for the class and what to expect for the rest of the year. As soon as lunchtime came she headed quickly towards the school canteen. She already saw them seated at a table. Pinkie and Sonata were laughing and chatting, while Rarity was discussing something to Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash and Applejack were just seated, listening to them when Sunset approached them. “Sit over here darling”, Rarity motioned to her as she went near. There was a place just next to Rarity. Sunset took it and sat down. She was seated just across Pinkie and Sonata, who were still busy chatting. “I was just telling Fluttershy here about that lovely skirt I found in New York”, Rarity said, turning to her. “I’ll bring it tomorrow so you can see it as well.” “So how did your day go?” Sunset asked her. “Oh, the usual first day”, Rarity casually remarked. “First days aren’t exactly exciting, just boring introductions.” “Same for me, too”, Sunset agreed. “Glad the day’s almost coming to an end.” She was about to turn her attention to Pinkie and Sonata when she caught sight of three people coming towards their seat. She quickly motioned to both Pinkie and Sonata. They stopped talking as the trio neared their place. “Well, well, look what we have here”, the voice said, dripping with sarcasm. Pinkie, Sonata, and Applejack turned to look at the one talking. There, standing near them, were Adagio Dazzle, Aria Blaze and a new girl they haven’t seen before. “So, looks like you found a new friend”, Adagio continued, smirking at them while looking pointedly at Sonata. “Just be careful about your new friend—she might be a snake as well.” Her voice was dripping with malice as she continued to taunt them, especially at Sonata. Rainbow Dash stood up and addressed her. “We don’t want trouble with your group, Adagio”, she warned her. Sunset also stood and motioned for Dash to back down, and then looked at Adagio. “What do you want?” she asked. “I just heard you have a new friend, so I went to check it out”, Adagio shot back, her smirk still on her face. She turned her attention back to Sonata, who still looked at her. “And just so you know, we have a new friend as well. Meet Crescenda Beat.” Crescenda grinned, but it was with the same malice that Adagio had. “So we don’t need little tramps like you!” she went on, drawing her face close to Sonata. At that Sunset went over her to get some distance between her and Sonata. “Back off, Adagio”, she warned her calmly. “You know you’re outnumbered here.” Adagio’s smirk came off, and now she was just seething at them. “Your little group won’t get away with what you did the last time”, she gave her own warning to them. “We may have lost our powers, but we can still hurt you in many ways.” “Just try”, Sunset said coldly, her arms folded. Adagio gave once last contemptuous look at them, then turned and stalked away. The two followed her as she went off seething with rage. Sunset went back to her seat and sighed, putting a hand on her forehead. Although she expected it, she still didn’t relish having to meet Adagio and her group on the first day. “Looks like trouble”, Applejack commented as the trio went out of the canteen. “Don’t you worry, we’re here to protect you”, Pinkie said, smiling at Sonata. “How in blazes are we supposed to do that?” Applejack retorted. She still had some mistrust over Sonata, although with what she just witnessed she’s slowly coming around to at least having her near their group. “We’ll just have to do it, whatever it takes”, Sunset said, still rubbing her forehead. “Well, if I’m any sort of trouble…” Sonata began, but Rarity quickly cut her off. “Nonsense darling”, she said as she patted her hand. “You’re safe here with us.” “I’m here to watch over her”, Pinkie added cheerfully. “Good call, Pinkie”, Sunset nodded. “I think it’s best you’re near her, just in case Adagio tries anything funny.” “Oh, she can’t do that, I’m the one who’s funny”, Pinkie continued to smile as she said that, and the others just groaned at that. Except Sonata. She smiled back at Pinkie. “I can be funny, too”, she said to her, and they slapped their hands together. “Looks like this is going to be one long year”, Applejack just sighed as Pinkie and Sonata giggled silly. The rest of the day went back to being uneventful, and Sunset was just glad when her last class was over and she could finally slide off her seat and get home. She saw the group waiting for her at the hallway. “Been waiting for you, darling”, Rarity said as she came over to them. Sunset looked around, pleased that everyone was there. “I don’t think Adagio would try anything with us around”, Rainbow Dash said. “She does threaten, but I don’t think she’ll be foolish enough to move with many people around”, agreed Sunset. “When we had powers, she would probably still try”, commented Sonata. “But now that it’s gone, you might be right that she won’t.” “Of course she won’t”, Pinkie chimed in. “I’m right here!” “It’s like you’re my sister”, exclaimed Sonata. “Hhmm…now that’s a nice idea”, Pinkie grinned happily. Sunset smiled. She could see that the two were bonding along nicely, and that Pinkie seemed to have a good influence over Sonata. She didn’t see any problem about her—for a long time Sonata had the unfortunate luck of being with the wrong people. With the right people with her, she reasoned to herself, Sonata can truly shine on her own. They parted ways at a corner near Canterlot High, each of them going to their own homes. Pinkie as usual volunteered to take Sonata home, and both Fluttershy and Rarity went along with them. As her usual routine, Sunset went home alone to gather her thoughts for the day. Although they held off Adagio and her pals, she knew that they’d bump into her more often. In their quarters, Adagio still fumed at the incident earlier at lunch in Canterlot High. Silently Aria and new member Crescenda just watched as Adagio continued to vent her anger out. “I have been humiliated by them!” she raged while pacing about. “They don’t realize what Adagio can do to them! And that little tramp—wait until I get my hands on her!” Crescenda just yawned. “Yeah, you did boot her off in the first place”, she casually said. Adagio stopped pacing, turned and then calmly went towards her. “My dear Crescenda”, she began, “if there’s one thing you should learn in this group is to never, ever contradict me!” Crescenda though was unfazed. “I didn’t even contradict you—you said so yourself that you took her off your group”, she corrected Adagio. That drove her totally mad, for a moment turning her rage over to Crescenda before controlling it. She breathed hard as she regained her composure. “I think that little tramp should be taught a lesson before anything else”, she declared. “What for? You don’t want her around anyway”, Crescenda stated. Adagio shot a glance at Aria. Aria just shrugged. “Listen, we work as a team”, Adagio lectured at Crescenda. “Don’t even try to think that you can act like that around me.” “Hey, I never did ask to be in your group”, Crescenda objected. “She was the one who invited me.” She pointed at Aria. “I’m only returning the favor”, explained Aria. “I had to put up with that tramp for years; now you have to deal with what I put up through all that time.” Adagio shook her head. She knew she had to get a grip on the two before their group fell apart. “Okay, let me again lay it down to both of you: I am in charge here”, she told them, facing them and slamming her hands on the table. “You will do as you’re told, or it’s the boot for the both of you!” “We’re still talking world domination here, right?” Aria said, just to make things clear. “Right now that’s not on my mind”, Adagio clarified. “All I want is to get back at them, and I am including that tramp along on my revenge!” “I still don’t get that part of including her in your plans”, Crescenda said. “It’s because she really hasn’t contributed much to our past plans”, Aria responded. “She’s just there with us, if you get my point. And she’s the reason why we were defeated.” Aria managed to add the last one to put the blame on Sonata, as she never felt that Sonata belonged with them and it was a mistake for Adagio to include her. As well it was her machination that led to Adagio forcing Sonata out. “She has joined them, so she’s one of them”, Adagio explained it more simply. “That’s all there is to it, and she will go down with the rest of them!” “Why not then trick her into causing them to break up?” Crescenda again asked. Adagio smiled evilly at that thought. “It’s been done before, but there is always something in destroying friendships”, she hissed with delight. “I like how you think. You might yet prove to be worthy of our group…” Then, she drew her face closer to Crescenda, “As long as you follow my lead!” Crescenda just stared back at her, still unmoved. “Sure. Whatever you say”, she finally replied without much emotion. Adagio drew back, satisfied. “I see we’re getting into some understanding”, she finally said, satisfied that Crescenda was at least playing her role. “Now, we come to the fun part, where we destroy their group…” Sonata was looking forward to Taco Tuesday, and now that day has arrived. After a rather mundane morning, Sunset went to the canteen to meet the group for lunch. After their run-in with Adagio and her pals, she’s more than they’d be back again to disturb them. Slipping into the canteen though, she couldn’t see a sign of them. Probably spending their time skulking somewhere else, she thought, though she pushed that away from her mind as she saw the group at their usual table. She went over and looked at them. Someone wasn’t with them. “So where’s Sonata?” she asked them. Applejack pointed at the line that has formed for the tacos. “She’s right there”, she motioned, and Sunset turned to see Sonata first in line for the tacos. I should have guessed, she told herself as she sat down with the group. While seated, she watched as Sonata eagerly took the first of the tacos, helping herself to two of them before going to their table. Her eyes were gleaming as she sat down and just looked happily at the couple of tacos sitting on the plate right in front of her. “I have to admit, they look tasty”, Rainbow Dash acknowledged as Sonata helped herself to one of them. She ate happily while the others talked. “So, any sign of Adagio or her cronies?” Applejack asked. The others shook their heads. She wondered about that. “Funny, I would’ve thought they’d show in one of our classes.” “I wonder about that as well”, Sunset said, though she also thought of the possibility that their classes would have been at a different time from hers. Still though, one of them should have seen Adagio or the other two in one of their classes. “Maybe they didn’t decide to go back here after all”, Pinkie reasoned. Doubtful, but possible, Sunset admitted to herself, though she also thought it was highly unlikely that they'd just drop out of school. “I think I’ll go and dig up what I can about it”, Rainbow Dash said, and the others agreed. Meanwhile, Sonata had already finished her first taco. She took the second one, and then surprisingly offered it to Pinkie. Her eyes widened at Sonata’s gesture. “Really for me?” she said, not knowing what to say. “For realsies”, Sonata said, beaming widely. “It’s for my ‘sister’.” Pinkie took it, still not knowing what to say. That moment was not lost on Sunset or the others. They could see Sonata learning more the true nature of friendship. Later, that night, Sunset wrote what happened in the canteen. She wrote that as much as Sonata was learning, she was in a way also teaching the others the value of friendship and the power of giving to others. She realized that it was much more than anything she learned in class that day, that one gesture could make all the difference on another. She knew that Sonata was on her way to becoming the real person she was meant to be. Author's Note Notes are now on my blog, so hope to look it up there... V. A Gym and An AlleywayPatiently, Adagio had been conceiving a plan to destroy the Rainbooms’ unity. She went through a number of scenarios in her mind, and it had occupied much of her time. So much, in fact, that she and the other Dazzlings didn’t even show up for either Tuesday or Wednesday classes, which was fine by Adagio. Though definitely it was irritating their newest member. “What is that plan again?” Clearly Crescenda was already annoyed. They had missed classes yesterday at Adagio’s insistence, and then today she asked them again to join her at their quarters. Adagio faced them as Crescenda and Aria sat at the sofa. “I have something in my mind—we send a fake text message to one of them and let it spread among them”, Adagio said with malicious glee. “So how are you going to do that?” Crescenda was asking the questions not out of any particular interest, but because she was still annoyed that she couldn’t go to class just because of Adagio’s obsession over the Rainbooms. “With this”, Adagio held up her own smart phone. “We just send out a text message to one of them…” “You do realize that they know each other’s numbers, right?” Crescenda cut her off. “And that’s why I’ll send that fake message saying I lost my phone and need her help”, explained Adagio calmly. “Now who would be dumb enough to fall for that?” followed up Crescenda, but Adagio merely gave her a wicked smile. “Ah, you mean her?” Crescenda answered her own question. “My, you catch on real fast”, said Adagio with a bit of sarcasm, though she was clearly proud of her as well for such a fast learner. “Don’t forget that I still have that twerp’s number with me!” “But wouldn’t she know it’s you?” Crescenda pressed on. “I’m way ahead on that”, countered Adagio as she took something out of her pocket, “with this!” She held up a new SIM card for them to see. Aria gave her usual blasé clap, complete with an expressionless face. Crescenda just sat there without much emotion. Adagio went on, ignoring their non-expressions. “Dual SIM phones are a wonder”, she said, half in admiration for the technology, and half grateful that such a thing existed. She took off the back cover, put in the new SIM into the other SIM slot, then replaced the cover. After a few taps on her smart phone, she triumphantly held the phone back up for them to see. “Now we’re in business!” she said, giving them again that evil grin. “So what happens next?” This time it was Aria who asked the question. “I’ll send that message to her, posing as one of her friends, and send her over to a secluded spot”, Adagio now began to reveal the rest of the plot. “There we will be waiting for her, and I’ll tell her some things about her so-called friends.” She looked at them, waiting for some reaction from any of them, but she noted that Crescenda was only irked. “That’s it?” Crescenda said, now greatly annoyed. “You had us absent for two days just to tell us of that silly plan of yours?” Adagio’s rage began to boil over at what she perceived to be a challenge to her. “Why, you have a better plan?” she snapped back at her. “I never did hear any of you give me suggestions while I am agonizing on what to do to them!” “You’re too obsessed about it”, Crescenda remarked. Now that really brought Adagio to the tipping point. “Listen, I will not let any of them take what should have been mine!” she now almost screamed. “We could have won if it weren’t for them! We were so close, and they have to get in the way! I want to see them break up, and one by one I will get them!” “Don’t forget, that little tramp will be the first”, Aria added quietly, though inwardly she was just as much relishing what would happen. “She will be the first”, vowed Adagio. “Mental torture would be much more fun than anything else! Casting doubts to sow the seeds of betrayal—now wouldn’t that be exciting?!” she asked, though she wasn’t actually waiting for them to answer a rhetorical question. “Wonderful and dramatic”, deadpanned Crescenda. “But I hope it will work.” “Oh it will”, Adagio now said, imagining how things will be. “So when will we make this happen?” Aria asked. “Very soon, this Friday in fact at the school’s first assembly in the gym”, Adagio replied. “While people are busy we will spring this plan into action…” She gave them a wicked grin after saying it, her eyes now glinting with much malice. The week went by quite fast, and already Friday came. Sunset was already at school early, but didn’t go in just yet as she waited for the others to arrive. She saw Rainbow Dash coming, hurrying up a bit as she approached school. “Glad to have found you”, she said when she reached her, panting a bit since she had hurried. With a questioning look, Sunset faced her. “What is it all about?” she asked her. “Well, I found out that they still haven’t left school. They’re..” before she could finish, both of them saw the three walking together in formation, their faces smug as they walked. “Looks like they’ve decided to show up”, Sunset said, eyeing them carefully. The two groups were silent as the Dazzlings passed them by, though with a glint in her eye Adagio eyed Sunset as she passed. Sunset didn’t react too much, though she was wary of them. “Creepy”, Rainbow Dash shivered when they were gone. “I don’t like what I felt when they passed, either”, admitted Sunset. Then she turned to walk in. “Come on, let’s check out what Pinkie and Sonata did to the gym”, she invited, to get the chilly feeling off. They walked towards the gym. It was still rather early, so there were few people. Sunset kept her guard though, just in case any of the Dazzlings, or even all of them, suddenly showed up, but they haven’t encountered any of them as they headed towards the gym. Finally they arrived. Sunset opened the doors and gasped with what she saw. Rainbow Dash as well marveled at the sight. The gym had balloons all over, plus brightly colored paper as well as other ornaments on display. The gym had been decorated in such a way as to give a real feeling of cheerfulness. The two can feel the personalities of the two at the sight—it was clearly the work of two lively, cheerful people. “So they did all these, just the two of them?” Rainbow Dash said, unable to stop being impressed. Even Sunset couldn’t stop smiling. It was truly a welcome sight, something that would cheer anyone coming in. “They really deserve congratulations”, she said as she took out her smart phone and began sending messages to them. “Real neat that they worked hard for this. No wonder they said they’d be late going home the past few days”, Sunset said after sending the messages. “I wonder if they had any help”, Rainbow Dash wondered, still gaping at the sight. “If ever that would be Rarity, but I doubt since the way it is decorated don’t seem like the way she would put it”, observed Sunset. “But certainly someone helped them do this”, she continued. “Well, it is still lovely”, Rainbow Dash said, and Sunset agreed. She looked at her watch. “Assembly here would be 2 hours before lunch”, she remarked, “so we only have about an hour for classes. Guess that’s enough time for lab.” “I can’t wait for it”, Rainbow Dash said as her excitement began to build up. “You must be looking forward to this year’s sports program”, Sunset looked at her, seeing how much excited her friend already was. Dash nodded. “It’s time to show them who’s the best!” she said with a yell. “The others must be outside by now”, Sunset said as she looked at her watch again. She looked around some more, then turned around to head out. “Let’s go and wait for them at the school entrance”, she said to Rainbow Dash. Dash nodded, then followed her to the entrance. The hour dragged by more slowly than she imagined it to be, observed Sunset as she was in lab. Normally she wouldn’t have minded it, as lab was her getaway, where she can go over the experiments and equipment and whatever else was inside it. Now though she can’t wait for the assembly to start, as it would kick off not only the school year, but the sports program as well. Dash would be very excited by now, she thought as she tried hard to get into what she had to do. It wasn’t working out, though she had to concentrate real hard just to make it work. While working though, her mind was as well already on her friends. She also thought of Pinkie and Sonata, who worked hard decorating the gym. And as well, Rarity would most likely be waiting for this, if only to look at how the decoration turned out. Mercifully, the time came for the students to go to the gym after a brief announcement from Principal Celestia. She followed the students who trooped toward the gym. She thought of waiting for any of the group to pass her class, but with the many students going there it was almost impossible to see any of them, so she simply went ahead. Or behind, as the case may be. She saw that most of the students were already inside when she arrived. Most of them were standing in the middle of the court, while others were seated on the bleachers. Too many people seated already, she figured as she scanned both for a seat and for her friends. She was tempted to take out her smart phone, but she thought that the others might have had their phones on silent mode. She then did what she had to: she steeled herself and waded into the crowd, going to a spot that she felt would be where they were. As the students gathered inside the gym, three figures quietly slipped away and went outside. Besides the gym was the soccer field, and the three stood there to map out their next move. Adagio quietly motioned that she would go to the top of the building adjacent to the gym, while the two went away to go outside the school to the designated place where they would meet. With the campus deserted, since most of the students and faculty were in the gym, it wasn’t hard for her to get into the building. Adagio climbed the stairs until she reached the topmost floor. It was an open space, which gave a very good view of the whole campus. She could see the gym just across, and spy whoever would go in or out of it. Quickly she put her plan into action. Taking out her phone, she began to tap and then send the fake message to Sonata. She then waited. A few minutes passed by and she was getting impatient. She kept looking at her phone for some message on it. That tramp probably has her phone on silent, she realized, and was about to go down and call it off when she saw Sonata’s reply. She exalted silently, then sent a message to the two Dazzlings now waiting at the alleyway to get ready. A few more seconds passed before she saw Sonata come out the gym. She hurriedly went down the building, careful not to let anyone see her, especially not Sonata. She went to a shortcut towards the alleyway so she could be there ahead of her. Before Sonata went out, she sent a message from her phone to Sunset, telling her that one of the group needed her help in looking for her phone, which she said must be around the alleyway near school. Luckily at that moment Sunset put her phone out to check if anyone has sent a message. She read it, and was about to put the phone back into her pocket when she realized something. Wait a minute, everyone should be here, she thought. Dreading the worst, she sent a group message to the others, asking them if anyone lost her phone. I hope they read it, she said to herself as she waited nervously for their replies. One after another they replied, all saying they have their phone, though she really didn’t need to know that the moment their replies came in. She then told them what transpired, and then said that she’d be going out to tail her. Hopefully I’m not too late, she thought glumly. She had to fight her way out the crush of people, which ate up precious minutes. She knew every second would count, especially in a case like this. Finally she got out. She stood for a second outside the gym, realizing she hadn’t the faintest idea where Sonata went. She checked again her phone to find out for a clue. She said something about an alley, she noted, reading again the message. She thought for a moment about it, then remembered about an alley just near the school, which was rather deserted and lonely. After firing off a quick message to the others, she ran as fast as she could toward the place. Sonata walked at a fast pace, almost sprinting, as she went to the place that the message said she should go to. Ever since she had met the group, that willingness to help, to really belong with them, came to her. It must be Pinkie, or Dashie, or anyone of them, she thought, trying to figure out who among them could’ve lost her smart phone. She didn’t recognize the number, though that wasn’t unusual, she thought, since the person must have used another one’s phone to send the message. At last she came to the place. She looked around. The alleyway was a narrow place between two buildings. It was just at the back of the school. Actually the fastest way to get there was to climb the wall at the campus’ end, at which that alley would then be directly at the other side of it. And there, standing and waiting for her, were the Dazzlings. When she saw them, she was shocked. She began to tremble, especially at the sight of Adagio. “Finally, it is nice to see you again, ‘sister’”, Adagio said with a snide. Sonata was rooted to the spot where she was standing, unable to get away, even though at that moment every fiber in her body was already screaming for her to flee. Somehow though, she couldn’t do it. But her eyes were wide with fear, for she knew what Adagio can do. Adagio sensed her fear, and she laughed evilly when she sensed it. “What’s the matter, aren’t you glad to see your ‘friends’ again?” she said, still taunting her. Beside her stood Aria and Crescenda, also giving out menacing grins. She took a step forward, just a small but calculated step, enough to see what would Sonata’s reaction be. She again gave out that menacing chuckle. “I am not here to frighten you, Sonata”, she declared as she took another step. “I have something to tell you; no, actually to show you”, she said as she now stood much nearer to her. Despite her fear, or maybe because of it, Sonata didn’t turn or run, but she stood there, even though she was trembling. “You really want to know your new friends?” Adagio said, more of a statement than a question really. “Well I have something to show you.” She stood, took out some photos, and threw them on the ground. They were the pictures of Sunset, before she met and befriended Twilight Sparkle and the Rainbooms. “That’s your friend right there”, she said, still tauntingly. “Charming, isn’t she? You want to know more?” Sonata just stood, her gaze partly at the pictures and partly at Adagio. She didn’t reply though to any of what she said. “What if I told you she’s every way just like me, that she’s just as bad as I am, or even worse?” She now laughed at that. “You’re thinking that I’m bad, right? For kicking you out of our group? But your new friends have no need for you anymore than we do. And you might even be better off with us.” She laughed again. In any other time Sonata might have run at that point. She might have gone as far as she could. She didn’t want to listen anymore to Adagio. But she stood there. And at that moment, she found her true self. Whatever it was, she found a resolve that she never knew she had. She stood her ground, her eyes suddenly taking on a determination it never had before. “No Adagio”, she said firmly. “You’re wrong about something: Sunset isn’t like that at all. She never showed herself to be like that.” That declaration stunned Adagio. She didn’t expected that. She had always tagged Sonata to be the dim one, to be easily manipulated. For so many years she made sure that she would play by her hand. But what was happening was all unexpected. Aria and Crescenda weren’t prepared for it as well. They looked at Adagio, unsure what to do. Crescenda spoke up. “Looks like your little plan failed”, she said to Adagio. “Guess we need to be more drastic.” Adagio nodded at her, then turned her attention again to Sonata. “What did you just say, you little tramp?” She could feel her grip on her loosening. Just a little perhaps, but she could feel a change. And slowly, she could feel panic rising. Just a little, but it was there. She stepped forward, but Sonata just stood there. She could see her stance wasn’t what she was accustomed to—it was a different Sonata that stood before her. “What was that again you said?” she repeated. “You now have the courage to defy me? I was hoping to have this settled in a more peaceful manner, maybe let you run away after shattering your spirit, but I see I now have to do it the hard way.” She made another step, and the other two at both her sides also began to step forward. Sonata saw this and began to back away. “Don’t you make another step”, a voice said, and Sonata turned to see Sunset standing behind her. Her eyes were like steel, hard and cold, fixed intently on Adagio. For a moment Adagio snapped out of her demeanor, shaken at the sight of Sunset before her. Her panic began to grow now. But she held on and got a grip of herself, locking her eyes with Sunset. “My, you arrived just in time”, she said, finding her rhythm once again. “I was just introducing you to your new friend here”. At the mention of the word ‘friend’, she spat it out with disgust. “Let her go”, Sunset said, her voice hard. “It’s me and the Rainbooms you’re after, not her.” She spoke with measured pace, just enough to keep the sound of a threat without actually saying one. While waiting for Adagio to say something, she addressed Sonata without turning around to her, keeping her gaze fixed at Adagio. “Back down, Sonata”, she said. Sonata nodded, stepping aside and going right behind her. “Brave”, Adagio said. “I’ll give you that. But let’s see if you’re a match for me.” She then took a different stance. Now she was ready to fight. “I never did want to do this”, she said to Sunset. “I could always do this if I wanted to, but I’d rather use my pendant to do the work for me. But you broke our pendants. Now thanks to you and your little friends, I might have to show you what I can do.” She lunged forward at a fast pace, her hands now clenched. She was fast, but Sunset was faster. She made a quick move, evading Adagio’s lunge. Adagio almost fell forward as her momentum got her off balanced. She grunted with rage for missing Sunset, then turned and charged again. And again Sunset made a quick sidestep to avoid her. Yet again Adagio almost fell down from her own move. She was now clenching her teeth, mad at Sunset for evading her so far. She tried to do it again, quickening her pace a little bit to keep Sunset off guard. But yet again she missed as Sunset stood aside to avoid her. While all of that was happening, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Fluttershy and Rarity arrived. They saw what was happening, and went over to Sonata’s side. They wanted to help out, but quickly saw that so far Sunset seemed to be holding her own very well. Adagio made several more lunges, but all of them failed. Each time she almost got Sunset, but not quite. And at each miss, she was getting more and more frustrated. This never happened to her before. Her rage, her anger, was slowly unbalancing her. Aria noticed it, too. She had never seen Adagio in so much rage. She saw that with each frustrated attempt, she was losing her balance and getting even more blinded with rage. Adagio was now more and more becoming a wreck. She was frightened for Adagio, frightened at what was happening. She could feel that at any moment she could snap. It was as if nothing else was fueling Adagio other than pure, blind rage. “Come here, you!” Adagio was now screaming. She was getting tired and frustrated, each swing, each lunge taking more and more of her energy. But what was tiring her was her anger, as she could not lash out at the person in front of her. She was tired, and she was at the breaking point. It went on for a few more minutes until she finally collapsed on her hands and knees, spent from both chasing around Sunset and he own rage. Sunset now just stood above her. She looked up, seeing her tower over her. She knew that she had her. “Come on, hit me!” she screamed at her, looking up at her. Now tears were falling down in her frustration. “Get it over with and hit me!” She began to sob and looked down, head bowed. “We were so close…we could have had it…” she said, sobbing. Sunset just stood there, looking down on her. Her eyes were still hard. She gazed at her like that while she spoke. “No, I don’t have to. You’re broken, Adagio. There’s no need for me to hit you.” She spoke with measured words, her voice cold and hard. The Rainbooms were transfixed with what they were witnessing, awed at the calmness of Sunset. Sonata looked at Adagio, still on her hands and knees and sobbing. She felt pity for her. She went over standing beside Sunset, then gently lowered herself until she was almost level to Adagio, at the same time stretching her hand to reach out to her. Adagio turned, her gaze still wild, her face twisted with rage. “You!” she screamed at her. “Get away from me! Don’t you ever touch me!” She then stood up, and still sobbing ran away. Aria and Crescenda looked at each other, looked at Sunset, then ran after Adagio. Sonata was still in that position, shocked from Adagio’s reaction. Pinkie went over and hugged her. Sonata wept, very much sad at what had happened. Sunset’s eyes softened. She looked at Sonata, reaching out for her. Sonata took her hand and stood up, hugging her. She let Sonata weep and let her emotions flow. Later they went back to school. Classes after all had not yet ended. Principal Celestia met them and wondered where they went since she wanted to thank Pinkie and Sonata about the decorations, but she decided to just do it some other time when she saw how they looked. She didn’t inquire anymore what happened, but let them go to their classes. Before the school day ended, Sunset was at the music room. She had taken out her guitar and now was strumming, her mind wandering to what just happened. She realized she had done something she hadn’t done in a long time: she stood up to someone. She let a part of her she thought had been gone come back. But she wasn’t frightened. Somehow, she realized that she could put that part of her do good, to help others if the situation called for it. It was an older part of herself, yet at the same time a new thing. She didn’t understand much of it yet, but perhaps in the coming days she will. She was still lost in the moment when the door opened. She looked up, and there was Sonata. She smiled when she saw her. Sonata went over to where she was. “I would just like to say, thank you for what you did”, she said, a little bit shyly. “That’s nothing”, she replied. “You’re our friend, and we’re here to help you out.” She then motioned for Sonata to sit. After sitting down, she continued talking to her. “I’ve been meaning to tell you this”, she began, “but I can see that you’re really a kind, brave, and intelligent girl.” Sonata looked at her and gave her a sheepish smile. “I think you’re just being silly because you don’t think anyone would like your serious side, that you’re afraid that people might take not see you for who you are.” Sonata didn’t speak at once, considering what Sunset just said. “I’m just being silly because I don’t want to get hurt”, she said. “I guess you could say that it’s my defense, my way of trying to shield myself.” Sunset nodded. “But”, Sonata went on, “that’s just between the two of us. Don’ tell anyone, not especially Pinkie.” Sunset smiled. “I won’t.” Sonata smiled, then got up. “Pinkie’s out waiting for me. She said that she’d treat me out.” She beamed. “I think we’ll hang out a lot, for realsies!” She waved then went out the room. Sunset just sat there for a moment, tucked away her guitar, and headed out. Adagio stumbled into their quarters, not bothering to turn on the lights. She went to the chair, flinging herself wildly. She was still sobbing, pounding the table in anger. She was beaten, much more so than what happened at the Battle of the Bands. She couldn’t accept her helplessness, her inability to just even as much as sneak a punch at Sunset. She was losing it, her mind now filled with nothing but hate and revenge. Then she began to laugh. A laugh that she never did before. Aria and Crescenda came to the door and heard it. They heard the laugh. Aria trembled with fright. She had never seen Adagio like that before. It was like she had lost all sanity. From within she could hear her talk. “Oh, I will get you, Sunset Shimmer! You just wait and see! I will have my revenge!” She raved like that. Aria and Crescenda backed away from the door, running far from the place. They knew something had changed in Adagio, and they weren’t in the least bit comfortable with it. That night, Sunset wrote again on her notebook. She described what happened, how things went. As she was closing it, she realized that, in a way, Sonata had forgiven herself and accepted who she was. She saw that she has grown in just a short time. But she also realized there was still much to do. Adagio was still out there, as well as Aria and their new member, Crescenda. Maybe she and the Rainbooms wouldn’t be able to reach out to them just yet, but sooner or later it might change. She’s not certain of anything yet, but at least the one thing that’s certain was that Sonata’s on her way to the path of redemption, and it was a path that leads to healing.
I. SummerSunset Shimmer looked around, flustered as to what she would do next. She sighed as she sat at the foot of her bed, notebook and pen in hand. Thinking early in the morning wasn’t exactly going as smoothly as she thought. She sighed again as she stared down her notebook. She was about to write something in it—more of a journal entry really, but she couldn’t even figure out where to begin. Finally, with exasperation she closed it, got up and put the notebook and pen back into her drawer. It was summer, and Canterlot High wouldn’t be open for another week. Like most students, she had been looking forward to summer, but now all she could think of was what to do with her boredom as summer winded down. “As if it’s not easy enough to adjust to being human”, she spoke out loud to herself. She just stood there, musing for awhile. Sunset Shimmer came from Equestria, a land where magical ponies lived. There she was a unicorn, and a promising student of Princess Celestia, until darkness fell on her and she left her former mentor. Now, after running into Twilight Sparkle and The Rainbooms, she had a change of heart, and has gone to mend her ways. Twilight Sparkle is like her, who came into the human world to retrieve the crown she herself has stolen. Eventually the two became friends, though Twilight since then has returned back to Equestria. “And now I’m stuck here”, she again said loudly. When she came into the human world, she took on a human form though she retained some aspect of herself such as her red and golden hair. “Well, can’t stay like this for long”, she decided, and then she picked up her cellphone and called Pinkie Pie. Pinkie is one of the Rainbooms, a band in Equestria High. High spirited, with pink hair, Pinkie has become one of Sunset’s closest friends. “Oh hi there”, Pinkie answered cheerfully. “I’m going to school”, Sunset announced. “Meet me there.” “School?” Pinkie wondered out loud to her. “It’s summer, Sunset. There’s lots of fun things to do!” Pinkie is not one to be left out when it comes to something fun. The drummer of the Rainbooms, Pinkie has been known to be active, though at times quirky. “I’m bored with summer already”, Sunset explained to her. “I’m going over to the lab to work on something.” Actually she had no idea what to do; it’s just that she’d rather go to school than stay in her room with nothing to do. “All right, I’ll go right with you”, Pinkie said cheerfully. “Great! Meet you there then”, replied Sunset. She put down her phone, then took one look in the mirror before grabbing her jacket and heading out. As she walked to Canterlot High, she reflected on what transpired the past few months. After facing the Dazzlings together with Twilight and the Rainbooms, life has never been the same for her. She mused on that further—life has never really been the same for her, at least not in a normal way. Having come from Equestria, as a unicorn no less, she found the human world to be fascinating. She shook her head at what she had done before, especially before meeting Twilight. She had been mean to people, but that’s because deep down she realized all she really wanted was for people to accept her and look up to her. Which was not the right way to go about things, she thought to herself. She realized that being mean to people only made them fear and resent her. Since that time though much has changed. She has spent much of it repenting and reflecting. Some might call it inaction, since many have noticed she has become a different person, not anymore intimidating or bullying others. In her musing she didn’t notice she’s near the school. She looked up at the building—imposing, yet at the same time lovely. She turned and strode right in. Normally Canterlot High would be brightly lit, but since it’s summer and school’s out, most of the lights are off. A dim light or two lit the hallway though, and she made her way to the lab. Pinkie’s not yet here, she observed as she opened the door. She went right in, closing the door carefully. She began to set up the things she would need, then stopped herself, as she realized she’s not even sure what she’s supposed to be doing. “Hey there!” a cheerful voice cried out. She turned around and saw Pinkie walking right into the lab. “Just in time”, she said to Pinkie as she smiled. “I was about to set up, but I’m not sure what to do.” “So you just went here?” Pinkie asked, still smiling. Pinkie has this unusual way of being perky even when it’s not exactly called for, though Sunset appreciates her ever present good mood. “Bored”, she replied to Pinkie. “Nothing to do at home so I just decided to drop by here. But then I’m not sure now what I’m doing here as well.” Pinkie looked around. Although not the scientific type, she can get busy if she wants to, and in fact she’s always busy. Even when it’s not necessary. And presently she began to make herself busy. “So what are you going to do here?” she asked while she began to tinker at things. Not that she knew exactly what they’re for, but she just held whatever what’s near her. Sunset didn’t mind though, as she went to the lab just to keep herself occupied as well. “Don’t know yet”, Sunset admitted as she went rummaging about the room. She began to take out some lab instruments, arranging them about the table, trying to keep herself distracted and busy. Pinkie went over to look at what she’s doing. “Honestly, I can’t figure out what to do today”, Sunset went on as she stopped and stared at the instruments at the table. “Must be something on your mind then”, Pinkie observed. Sunset nodded. “Could be”, she said. “I can’t figure it out yet, but it might just be boredom.” She just stood there as she continued to look at the table. “So where are the others?” she finally asked Pinkie. “Oh, they’re on vacation”, Pinkie replied. Sunset looked at her strangely, at which she went on, “I mean, their families went away some place to have a vacation.” “All of them?” Sunset asked. “Yeah. Didn’t you know?” Pinkie asked her. Sunset grimaced and mentally wanted to kick herself for not even trying to text them, but the past few days have been so busy for her in the house that she wasn’t able to send even a greeting to any of the Rainbooms. “I’m sorry”, she apologized to Pinkie. “I guess I’ve got too caught up with things to even try and contact them.” Not that I did a good job at doing it, she glumly thought to herself. “Not to worry”, Pinkie said, still cheerful and perky. “I’m sure they didn’t notice it, either.” “Remind me to get some of that perky mood of yours sometime”, Sunset said to her. “Now, let me just figure out what to do with these things…” She started arranging all of the things on the table and worked on it. Pinkie helped out in whatever she could, mindful not to get too much in the way. For a few moments they worked silently. Sunset concentrated while she set up the flasks and test tubes, putting the tubes onto holders so as not to tip them over. She stepped back a bit when all of have been done. “Okay, ready to work”, she said. Pinkie took a chair and sat while Sunset began to work. Again there was silence as she began mixing chemicals up. After a few minutes though she spoke up. “You know, I’ve been thinking about some things lately”, she began. “What is it?” Pinkie asked, her voice serious for once. It’s not usual that Pinkie goes into serious mode, but when she does she will take the time to really listen. “You know how I turned into a she-demon before”, Sunset said carefully. Pinkie nodded, not saying anything. “Well, what if that happens again?” Although she didn’t turn around, she could feel Pinkie silently mulling things. “You know that’s long gone”, she replied to Sunset. “Pinkie”, Sunset said, “all people have their good and bad side. There is good in all of us, and we also have our own faults. What if I lose control all over?” “You just have to believe in yourself”, Pinkie replied in a very natural way. Now that’s a practical response, Sunset thought. She smiled without looking at Pinkie. “Yeah, I guess you’re right…” she simply said in reply. For a good two hours they were in the lab. Sunset wanted to continue on with some of the experiments she anticipated they would do at the start of classes, but she figured she had enough for the day. Besides, Pinkie has her own ideas about science, she thought, smiling as Pinkie began to mix some more chemicals. She laughed gleefully as a small pop came out of the test tube. “I didn’t know science can be so much fun!” she declared as she happily bounded over to Sunset’s side. “Would love to do some more, but I think I’m done here”, Sunset announced as she went over to the sink to wash the test tubes and flasks that she got out. “Would you play with us when the band gets back?” Pinkie called out from across the lab. “Of course”, Sunset replied as she washed the last of the flask. She gathered them all up and went to the drawer, stashing them all in. Pinkie went over to hand her some of the other things still out. “I always would love to jam with you guys.” Pinkie smiled happily. “Then I’ll tell them when they get back”, she said. Sunset was about to tell her that texting them would probably be just as fast, but she stopped herself. Maybe it would be better if Pinkie told them; it would be much more personal. From that point they parted ways, Pinkie bounding happily, as she always does, towards her home. Sunset trudged along towards her own home, quiet but feeling more relaxed. Being in the lab gave her something to do, and she’s glad Pinkie has been there with her. She would have remained like that when she heard someone sobbing. Yeah, that’s definitely someone crying, she thought, even though the sound was muffled. She was presently coming up to some hedges, which were high enough to hide someone sitting on the other side of it. Carefully she went over, mindful not to be too intrusive, just in case. She hesitated though. It’s none of my business really, she thought, but then curiosity got the better of her. Deciding to act more naturally, she pretended to walk right over and turn around. She gasped when she saw who was crying. Sonata Dusk! She thought as she stood rooted to where she’s standing, her mind reeling. Author's Note A work in progress...might be a long one...
II. The Sadness of a SongShe wanted to turn around and walk away as quickly as she could, but another part of her compelled her to stay. Cautiously, she went to the sobbing figure seated behind the hedges. Sonata’s face was buried in her hands that she didn’t even notice Sunset approaching her. “Hello there”, Sunset greeted. The spot, she observed, was perfect for hiding: aside from the hedges, there’s a tree nearby as well to provide shade. The shade it gave made the place cool amidst the summer heat. Sonata looked up. Her sobs stopped, though there were still tears on her cheeks. She just stared at Sunset, though from her posture Sunset could see that she’s ready to back off. To where, Sunset’s not sure as behind her was the hedge. “I’m sorry to have frightened you”, she apologized to Sonata. “I was just passing by and heard you crying.” Sonata just sat, her eyes wide. Sunset bent down, extending her hand. “I’m not here to frighten you”, she reassured Sonata. She went to her side and sat. “So what happened?” she asked as she gently sat beside Sonata. Sonata just sat there, not sure at all what to say. Sunset noticed that quickly. “I’m sorry if I am bothering you”, she began. “If you don’t want me here…” But she was surprised when Sonata grabbed her arm. She didn’t expect that. “I…I need someone to talk to…” Sonata’s pleading eyes convinced her she’s in trouble. She nodded for her to go on. “They…they’re horrible to me!” she blurted out, ready to burst out crying again. “Wait, you mean…” Sunset wanted to say more, but one look at Sonata made her realize that saying something might only cause her to cry even more. Sonata understood though what she’s trying to say because she nodded at that. “Adagio and Aria kicked me out!” she said as she hung on to Sunset’s arm. “Aria is especially horrible to me!” Sunset could imagine how bad Aria could be to her; Aria never did like Sonata to be with their little group, that she was aware of, though she wondered what she could do to help her out just now. “Wait, aren’t you guys supposed to be still in Canterlot High?” she inquired. Sonata nodded weakly. Well that’s a relief, sort of, she thought. At least I could help her when school lets in, though that’s still a week away. She then put her hand and patted Sonata’s hand. “I’ll see what I can do”, she said to her. “You’re always welcome to be with us, though I am not sure yet about the others.” Then she thought of Pinkie. She looked Sonata over and nodded. She just knew she and Pinkie would get along. But then she also wondered how the others would feel. Especially AJ and Dash. Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Although overall they’re friendly, they could be outspoken and frank as well. Too frank at times, she thought, sighing a bit. She then looked again at Sonata then spoke up. “I’ll walk you home”, she volunteered. Although she wanted to talk to her more, she also needed to get home, and walking her home would be a good way to get to talk to her more. But Sonata shook her head. “I can get home fine”, she said. She looked at Sunset and smiled. “You’re nice to talk to me.” “Well, it’s the least I can do to someone in need”, she said. Ever since she has decided to change for the better, she had been looking for a chance to be of help, and now she seemed to have found that chance. “But we were mean to you…I was mean to you”, Sonata said, genuinely surprised that Sunset could be so casual in talking to her like that. “Hey, you don’t know what I’ve been through”, she said, half jesting and half serious. Sonata just stared blankly at her though. She stared back, then smiled a bit. “Long story”, she said to her. “But you’ll tell me”, Sonata said. “I will, but that’s for another time”, she promised. She looked up. The sun was high, and she realized it’s nearly lunch. She got up, and Sonata stood up together with her. “You sure you don’t want me to walk you home?” But Sonata shook her head again. “I’m fine”, she repeated. Sunset decided to drop it then. Whatever Sonata’s going through, she will speak out in time. She took out her smart phone. “I’ll get your number, in case we need to talk”, she said. Sonata smiled broadly, the first time she ever did that day. “Sure thing”, she said, and gave out her number. She also brought out her own phone and took Sunset’s number, which she happily gave. After that they parted ways, and Sunset went towards her home. The incident left her reflective again though. Just a few months back she needed friends herself, and now she’s on the verge of helping out one. That night, in her room, she began reading her text messages. Pinkie texted and said that the rest of the band might return from their vacation. She also received a text from Rainbow Dash confirming what Pinkie just announced. She took out her notebook, opened it, and prepared to scribble her thoughts into it. Definitely what’s on her mind was what happened today, especially the one with Sonata. She shook her head a bit to clear her thoughts, and then she thought on how to exactly write her thoughts. She began writing, pausing every now and then to think what to write, then continuing on. When she was finished with her entry, she read it over. Satisfied, she closed her notebook and put it back into her drawer. Before going to bed, she thought of the big day ahead of her as she began to anticipate the group coming back home… Morning, glorious morning! That’s the first thing that came up on Sunset’s mind as she woke up. She got up, looked out the window, and saw the sun already out. She looked at the clock beside her bed and saw that it was 7 a.m. As she dressed for the day, she thought of the things that might happen, but quickly pushed them aside. She doesn’t want to get her hopes too high. She’s not even sure how the group will react to Sonata. As she prepared to go down for breakfast, her cellphone rang. She checked and saw that it’s Sonata sending her a message. She read a little bit loudly what she sent. “Please meet me where I was yesterday”, she read. Now what could it be? she wondered. She replied that she’ll have a quick breakfast and be on her way. She went down, got her breakfast, and quickly got out for her meeting with Sonata. She went to the place at a fast pace, making a short sprint every now and then until she got there. She saw Sonata seated at where she found her yesterday. “So, what’s up?” she asked as she went towards her and sat down. Sonata looked down, visibly worried. “I’m afraid of Adagio…you know what she can do…” she sounded as worried as she looked. Sunset nodded. In the time she saw Adagio, she saw what she’s capable of. She saw that she’s manipulative, and had no remorse in whatever she did. She’s worried about that one—it’s one thing to do wrong. It’s another thing to own up to it and admit to what happened. Adagio doesn’t seem to be the type to just surrender and admit to her mistakes. She’s merely retreated to make another plot, she concluded. But right now she couldn’t be sure of that. She just looked at Sonata, who looked helpless and dejected. She knew one thing: her work’s cut out for her, she decided. She has committed herself and she’s going to see Sonata’s case through. “I’m with you on this one”, she declared to Sonata. Sonata looked up, her face brightening. “You really mean it?” Sunset nodded at her question. She smiled, and Sonata smiled back. “I’ve never met someone like you before…” Sonata’s voice trailed off, not sure of what else to say. “The group should be back home today…well, most of them at least”, she said as she mentally counted on who would be coming back home that day. “And Pinkie’s here, too. You really have to meet her.” Of all the people in the Rainbooms, Pinkie would be the most accepting. Pinkie never had much of a reservation about anyone, which could be both a good and a bad thing. This time though it might be good, Sunset was thinking. “I’ll tell her to go here”, she said, whipping out her smart phone and texting Pinkie. She decided to just tell her to get to the spot they’re in, purposely leaving out any mention of Sonata just yet. “Do you think she’d welcome me?” Sonata asked, unsure of the situation. “Pinkie’s cool”, she assured Sonata. “In fact, I think you’ll get along with her real well.” Presently Pinkie Pie came along. One can see her even from a long distance: pink, curling hair with matching dress to boot. Her personality comes out through and through even just by looking at her. Today was no different as she came up and smiled. “Oh, hi there!” Pinkie waved even from a distance. Sunset waved back. Sonata merely smiled and gave a small wave. Pinkie came up to them much faster now, briskly walking as she covered the last distance towards them. “I see we have someone”, she said excitedly as she sat down in front of Sunset and Sonata. Sunset cleared her throat to get Pinkie to quiet down a bit. “I think you met Sonata already”, Sunset told her, skipping any formalities. Pinkie took Sonata’s hand and shook it. “Oh, you’re with the Dazzlings, right? You sing real good”, Pinkie said. Sunset looked at her oddly, wondering if Pinkie already forgot about what happened, though she thought of it better. Knowing Pinkie, she can see that she’s trying to be as optimistic as she can be. And it seemed to be working, as Sonata became more warm and open to Pinkie. While all this was happening, Sunset took the time to study her more closely. Of the Dazzlings, Sonata’s personality almost closely matches Pinkie. Outwardly both of them were bright and sunny, though they can be introspective and actually think things through when they wanted to. That’s what she saw in Pinkie, and she’s also seeing that in Sonata as she sat there, being quiet and reserved. It was a different Sonata that she’s seeing then. After a few pleasantries, Sunset finally thought of getting down to business. “Well, maybe it’s time we learn more of what happened”, she then, looking directly at Sonata. She sighed, again looking dejected, though now Sunset noted that it wasn’t as deeply as yesterday. “It’s not going to be long”, Sonata began, “but I always thought that they were my friends…” She began her story, as Sunset and Pinkie listened in careful attention… Author's Note More about this chapter--initially I wanted to show a different Sonata here, one who has more depth and a different, more pensive and caring side. I realized though that it might go overboard and make a Sonata that's barely recognizable, so I held back just enough to still show her plight without making it look like she's one clueless girl.
III. Of Tests And Exams“It happened just after we were defeated”, Sonata began. Sunset listened attentively, but although Pinkie was also listening with attention, she seemed ready to burst out. Pinkie has always loved a good story, and she can never listen long enough without adding some of her own comments. This just happened to be one of those moments. Hardly anything has been said yet, and Pinkie excitedly commented, “I knew something happened after it!” Sunset looked sideways at her but decided not to speak up yet. Sonata went on. “We went to a small room, sort of like our quarters, and that’s when things started”, she continued. “Adagio was raving mad, very much angry. She wanted revenge. I didn’t mind it. I knew it was over, and at least I could get some rest. That’s when Aria went over to her, pulled her aside while I sat down to rest.” She stopped a bit to control her emotions. Pinkie quieted down a bit, for which Sunset was grateful. “I closed my eyes, feeling real tired, when I felt Adagio and Aria standing over me”, she continued on. “They both had their arms crossed, and Adagio looked down on me…” Here her voice trailed off as she began to lose words. Sunset felt sorry for her. She knew what she’s going through, in a way. Pinkie wasn’t smiling now. She put her hand on Sonata’s shoulder. Sonata just sat there, looking terribly sad. “I..I can’t believe what she just said to me…” her voice was quavering now, tears again falling down. “She…she said that it’s all my fault…that if it’s not for me, we could’ve won…” “She’s mean”, Pinkie commented. Although Pinkie was trying to be sincere, the way she said it was quite funny. At any other time it would’ve made Sunset laugh, but she held back as she could see how down Sonata looked. “I’ve been with them for so long…I followed Adagio so much…” Sunset put her hand on hers to comfort her. She looked at Pinkie. Pinkie looked back as her hand was still on Sonata’s shoulder. “Dear, we’re here for you”, Sunset said to her. “Adagio may not care for you, but you can count on us to be there when you need us.” “It’s not just Adagio”, Sonata stammered. “It’s more Aria…she never did like me from the start…and now she has found reason to take me out of their group…” “You never did belong there”, Sunset said without hesitation. “You deserve better than them. Trust me. There are a lot more people out there who cares for you.” “Dashie would be back here this afternoon”, Pinkie said, now starting to perk up again. Sunset nodded in acknowledgment. “I think we should wait for them and let them hear her out”, she decided. “I’m sure they’ll like her!” exclaimed Pinkie, although Sunset wasn’t quite sure yet about that one. She knew though that it’s test for her as well as for Sonata with what she’s going through. At that point though she looked at Sonata. She realized that beneath her cheerful exterior lay a caring person, and she can see it the way she expressed her sadness over what happened. Perhaps there is hope in her… The three of them decided to get something to eat while waiting for Rainbow Dash to come. Pinkie texted her, as well as the others. She reported that Rarity as well was on her way home. Applejack was still on her family’s farm but should be arriving soon as well, while Fluttershy said she’d be coming over tomorrow. They walked along to one of the canteens near the school. During school days it’s usually full of students, but now because of summer only a few were inside. They got a table without any problem. Sunset looked around to see anyone familiar, but she didn’t see anyone. Which might as well be, she thought. She wondered what would people’s reaction be if they saw her and Pinkie with Sonata. Not that she really mind what others thought. She looked at her watch. Rainbow Dash would be arriving at 1 p.m., and so they still had an hour to go to get some lunch. While eating Pinkie talked with Sonata, and both began to realize that they’re almost alike in personality. Sunset smiled. She knew that Pinkie would get along with her very well. She hoped that the others would as well, considering that Sonata had been one of the Dazzlings. Pinkie snapped her out of her reverie when she began to tap her hand with her finger. “We both like parties!” Pinkie gushed. She could see Sonata now getting to be how she was before—very much like Pinkie, Sonata can be perky as well. Some thought that she’s an airhead, but now Sunset could see that she probably used her perkiness as a means to hide her true self. But she would have to know more about that later. “Pinkie, text and ask her where she is, and tell her we’re here at the canteen near school”, she advised. She turned her attention to Sonata then. “So how are you now?” “Much better”, an appreciative Sonata said. Pinkie gave a thumb’s up as she sent the message through, and then waited for a reply. “That’s great”, Sunset said simply. “Dash’ll be here soon, and I’m sure she’d want to meet you as well.” Although she hoped so, she’d not totally sure as Rainbow Dash can be so direct, and sometimes this rubs off on other people the wrong way. Still, she really think that the group would eventually come around to becoming her friends. Pinkie’s phone rang and she looked at the message. “She’s on her way here”, she said to both of them. Sunset could see that Sonata was a bit nervous, though Pinkie was there to keep her occupied. A few more minutes passed by before Rainbow Dash arrived. She went in, looking radiant after a few days out with her family. Rainbow Dash can be described as flamboyant, and it shows: her hair has the color of the rainbow, from red, blue, orange and all the other rainbow colors. And hence her name as well. “So how’s it going?” she asked them as she went in, then stopped dead when she saw Sonata with them. “What’s she doing here?” she asked pointedly. Sonata sank back into the corner, but Sunset beckoned Dash to sit. “That’s why you’re here”, she said to her. “Sonata has something to say, and it’s good if we could listen.” She nodded at her, and Sonata told the story again for Rainbow Dash to hear. After her story, Sonata looked at the group. “Well, I don’t know about that”, Dash said, still unsure about it all. “Listen, Sonata’s the least problematic for us even then”, Sunset came to her defense. “I was actually hoping sooner or later she’d turn around.” That was partly true; she never saw Sonata as really mean, unlike either Adagio or Aira. “I only joined them at the time because I was fooling around with that pendant, and Adagio asked me to join”, she explained. “Well, I guess two magical types around isn’t such a bad thing”, Dash conceded. “So you don’t have any plans to get back to Equestria, or whatever you call that place?” she turned to ask Sonata. She shook her head in reply. Dash seemed satisfied. She took her drink and sipped on it. “I’m cool with it then”, she said, contented. Sunset was glad things turned out well. She began to think of her only other hurdle, Applejack. She doesn’t foresee any problem with Fluttershy, and Rarity would more likely give her own fashion advice to Sonata than anything else. Applejack though was the only other one who can be vocal about her dissent. For now though it was a small victory. “So, when will band practice?” she asked, changing the subject a bit. “Maybe when everyone gets back”, Dash said. “I think most would be here tomorrow since classes start next week.” Sunset’s face became serious when she heard that. Dealing with the group was one thing, but she couldn’t imagine how it would be once Adagio and Aria saw Sonata with them. Sonata must have felt it as well because she then shot a glance at Sunset. Although Sunset noticed it, she continued on, partly to ease Sonata’s fear. “I think we can bring Sonata along for the jam”, she said as she looked at her. Sonata seemed excited, and Pinkie joined in. Sunset could see they’re turning to be close friends. “Why not?” Rainbow Dash agreed. Sunset looked pleased. “It’s settled then. You’ll join us for band practice this Saturday, right?” she said to Sonata. She hesitated, but Pinkie egged her on, until she relented. “You better tell the others about Saturday”, Sunset motioned to Pinkie. Pinkie had been the designated messenger of the group, throwing back and forth text messages. Not that the others don’t want to do it themselves, but Pinkie simply loved the job she’s asked to do. “Aren’t you going to meet them tomorrow?” Dash asked curiously, but Sunset shook her head. “Too much meeting. I think Saturday’ll be fine. Besides, they’re still tired from their trips.” But in reality Sunset was just holding it off, just in case things get heated with Applejack. “Guess I’ll go home and rest then”, Rainbow Dash said as she slid off the chair. The others stood up as well, ready to leave. “Thanks again”, Sonata said to Sunset. “Everyone deserves a second chance”, Sunset said, taking her hand. “I got a second chance, and I’d like others to have that as well.” Sonata beamed at that. Pinkie came up from behind and joined them. “I’ll take you home”, she offered to Sonata. From the canteen they parted ways, each one walking to their home. Sunset walked home alone. She loved to walk home alone, giving her time to reflect, which was what she had been doing for the most part, making her at times introspective. Now she had to ready herself for the group’s meeting the coming Saturday. That night, before going to sleep, Sunset checked her smart phone for text messages. Pinkie sent a message saying that Sonata will sleep over with her for a few days. She smiled, knowing that the two will get along real well. She also saw a greeting from Fluttershy as well as Applejack and Rarity. Rarity apologized for not being able to show up, while Fluttershy and Applejack said they’d be arriving tomorrow. She put her phone by the stand beside the bed. Saturday seemed so far, and yet so near. Friday brought nothing much in activity. Sunset mostly stayed at home, cleaning the house for a change in pace. Every now and then she would receive messages from the others. Pinkie and Sonata have gone out to the mall. She wondered how would people react seeing her with Sonata, but then Pinkie wasn’t the sort to worry about other people talking. Rarity also went shopping, as she always did, looking for clothes to wear for the coming school year. As for Rainbow Dash, she was out on the school field with the soccer team as they prepared for the coming school year as well. Last she saw Flutterfly and Applejack’s messages, they were on their way back to Canterlot. After checking on her phone, she went back to house cleaning. Every other day she makes sure that the house would be clean, going about the living room and vacuuming the carpet there. While she cleans the house she had her mp3 player hook up to the speakers and music playing. Her musical taste was eclectic, ranging from rock to pop and even 80s music. She didn’t know why she liked music from the 80s, but she just listened to it. Every now and then she also listens to classical music and jazz. Music also served as her distraction—she didn’t want to think about the coming day, so she just let music distract her thoughts, at least for the day. She paused for a moment, listened to the music, which happened to be her favorite song. She let herself be moved by it, and soon she was dancing to it, letting the moment take over. She just let herself get lost into it, not letting worries get to her. It’s a moment she wished would go on forever. When it ended, she was tempted to repeat the song, but then realized there was much more to be done. She just smiled, and humming the next song that played, continued her work. Saturday finally came. Sunset woke up early, and then texted Pinkie to confirm if everyone would come. Nobody objected or gave any reason not to go, so she told everyone to go to the school’s music room. Her favorite song was still in her head as she dressed. She stood for a moment, unable to decide what to wear. Finally she took her jeans, a black shirt and then she put on her boots. Although she could still hear the song in her head, she focused more on what needed to be done. For one, they do need to rehearse. She wanted to have them rehearse during summer but relented when most of them said they had other plans. She also wondered if anyone had seen Pinkie with Sonata yesterday. Most likely some saw them together. No doubt Adagio is fuming right now, she thought, but she didn’t let that bother her just yet. She needed to settle the matter about Sonata and what to do with her situation, though she could also see that Pinkie had already made up her mind and had formed a friendship with her. She got to school and immediately headed for the music room. She had left her guitar there, thinking that she’d be able to use it with the band for summer. Going in and turning on the lights, she took her guitar, found her small amp nearby, and plugged it in. She tuned it while waiting for them. Sunset had told Pinkie to come in last together with Sonata, so she wasn’t expecting them to be there early. The first one to come in was Fluttershy. She greeted Sunset in her quiet, gentle way. “Hi there”, she said, “I brought you a present.” She handed to Sunset some chocolate she had bought. Fluttershy was much like her name—quiet, almost shy, but can also be fierce when she wanted to, which Sunset thankfully thought wasn’t that often. Fluttershy also played the cymbals for the band. Next to come in was Rarity, who immediately went and hugged Sunset and Fluttershy. The band’s keytar player, Rarity was also very much into fashion, and it shows not just in her clothes, but even in her manners. “Missed you, darlings”, she said to them as she sat down. “I’ve had the most fabulous time in New York! Lots of places to buy from. Would love to get back there again.” “I’m glad you liked it there, Rarity”, Sunset commented. “Very much”, she nodded. “If it weren’t for school I would’ve stayed there longer, but at least I got new clothes.” “Oh my, I would love to see your new clothes”, Fluttershy said in her usual quiet way. “You will when school opens, dear”, she promised to Fluttershy. While she was talking, Rainbow Dash arrived. “I’m so ready to practice!” she said. She then looked around. “Where’s Pinkie?” “She’s on her way here”, Sunset replied. Rainbow Dash took her guitar and found her amp, then sat down to tune it. Sunset got hers as well and joined in, tuning their guitars together. “What will we play today?” Dash asked as they finished tuning. “Something heavy? I’m not sure. I have my favorites…” Sunset paused as she thought of what might be a good song to play. She then began to play a few notes on her guitar, softly strumming it. Rainbow Dash nodded her head in time with the beat. “That’s a nice song”, she said approvingly. “It’s an 80s song. You probably wouldn’t know it unless you really search for it. I found them on the internet while searching for videos”, Sunset explained. “You have class, dear”, Rarity also approved. “Most people only go for what’s on, but you took more effort in discovering your own music.” “Thanks. I try to find the music that’s for me”, Sunset replied. “And as it should be”, agreed Rarity. Applejack came in at that time, smiling at them in her own, simple way. The group’s bassist, Applejack can be stubborn at times. She liked to wear her cowboy hat, which she kept clean often. People mistake her for being too rural, though that’s far from the truth. “So, how’re you all doing?” she boomed. Applejack can be loud at times, but that’s what the group likes about her. At times as well she and Rainbow Dash had some friendly competition among themselves. “You’re late”, Rainbow Dash said as a joke. “I am not!” AJ retorted. “And where’s Pinkie? She’s supposed to be here now.” “She’ll be here soon, she just fixed some things in her house”, offered Sunset. “I’m here!” A cheerful voice just called out. Applejack put a palm on her face. “I spoke too soon!” she said in mock dismay. I hope this mood lasts, she thought as she saw Pinkie’s pink head poke through the door. “Hello everyone!” she called out, excited to see them all back together. She waved at everyone in the room. Applejack stood a bit far off, adjusting her bass guitar when she heard Pinkie’s voice. Turning, she saw Pinkie, and someone else with her. The room turned a bit quiet as everyone stared at the person with Pinkie. “Everyone, I guess you know who she is”, Sunset said as a way of introduction. “You know darn right we do!” AJ said, her voice a bit thick. “So what in blazes is she doing here?” “That I can explain”, Sunset said, and she recounted to them the day she found Sonata. When she finished, Applejack was scratching her head. “I don’t know…” she said, still skeptical. She went forward and shoved her face near Sonata’s. “I have some questions for you…” Rarity though went to her before Applejack could ask any further. “I’m welcoming you, darling”, she said, taking Sonata’s hand. “We have so much to talk about fashion.” “Oh, she likes clothes so much!” Pinkie chimed in. “Do you now, dear?” Rarity asked her. Sonata nodded. Rarity clapped her hands in delight. “Then we really have to talk together!” Shyly, Fluttershy also went to meet her. “It’s so nice to meet you”, she said. While they were around Sonata, Applejack approached Sunset and took her aside. “You buying any of this?” she pointedly asked her. “She sounds sincere enough”, was all Sunset said. “I guess we need to quiz her some more”, Applejack said to her, and Sunset just shrugged. Applejack turned to Rainbow Dash. “You with me Dash?” she asked. “Hey, she’s cool, don’t worry”, was all she said to Applejack. “We will see”, she said, then went over to Sonata. “Will you mind if I ask you some questions?” Sonata’s smile disappeared, though her eyes were much more joyful now than they were the day before, noted Sunset. “Oh yes”, was the short reply of Sonata. “So why did you leave the Dazzlings again?” she asked her. “I couldn’t take Aria anymore. She’s just mean to me. And I thought Adagio would come to my side, too”, she answered. “You sure that’s all?” Applejack pressed on. Sonata nodded, though Applejack wanted to find out more. “I heard you’re not a good fit for them”, she went on. “What does that exactly mean?” “It means I don’t belong with them?” Sonata said, unsure of what to exactly say. “I do wish it weren’t so, though…” She again looked downcast as she said that. “Well, why don’t you go ask them then?” “But they’re so mean to me, especially Aria!” she burst out, objecting to the thought. “She can always be with us here”, Pinkie suggested. “I suggest that she does stay with us, at least for awhile”, Sunset spoke up, partly to settle the matter and partly to stop Applejack’s interrogation. Applejack looked around. She realized that the group seemed made up about her, or at least she could tell Sunset was as well as Pinkie. She also knew that Fluttershy would accept her without hesitation. Rarity looked to be that way as well, and though she’s not too sure about Dash, she could see it was only a matter of time before she would join them. She realized that she had to drop the subject, for now. “All right, guess you all have made up your minds”, she finally said, “but I’ll be keeping an eye on her, just in case.” She took one last look at Sonata, then went back to her guitar. “Oh, you’ll really like it here with us”, Pinkie said cheerfully at Sonata. She then went to her drum set, taking out her drumsticks which she brought along. Sunset just stood there, thinking about what happened. She knew that AJ’s not going to let up on her, unless she’s convinced of Sonata. For her part, Sonata took one of the chairs nearby. Sunset went over to her. “Can you sing?” she asked her. Ever since their pendants broke, she didn’t know how she was or what else happened to her. Sonata wanted to shake her head, but Sunset had thought up an idea. “I got it—I’ll give you some voice lessons. It will be fun. You don’t have to worry about it”, she told her. “That would be nice! Thank you!” Sonata hopped with glee. Sunset smiled at her, then went to her place in the band. Pinkie signaled for them by tapping her drumsticks together, and then they began their jamming. They jammed for an hour. Sunset was glad to have the Rainbooms back together. She had recently tried her hand at composing, and can’t wait to share with them her work. But that had to wait just yet—school was just a day away, and she wondered how things would be. She also had not heard from Sonata if Adagio and Aria would be back at school. Sonata did affirm that she’d be studying there again, and Sunset told her she could stay with the group for as long as she liked. “Well, see you guys on Monday”, she told them as they packed up their instruments and got ready to go. “I can’t wait for school to start!” Rainbow Dash said. “And why would that be?” Pinkie asked. “I’m gonna get to as many sports as I could, and then we’ll show Crystal Prep what we can do!” declared RD with a stomp. “Oh good! I can get the party planning committee together to plan for events!” Pinkie said with excitement. “Excuse me, but who are you with in that committee again?” Applejack asked. “I have someone with me now—she is!” Pinkie pointed at Sonata. Applejack groaned, but Sonata raced up to Pinkie and they began bouncing up and down. Sunset just shook her head, smiling at the sight. After leaving Canterlot High, they called out to each other to say their farewells as they went to their own homes. That night, Sunset opened her notebook and began writing. She sighed. I really have to get that tablet I saw in the store the other day, she thought. She tried to figure out what she could do though to buy it. She shook her head and then went back to what she was writing. She sank back to her chair when she was finished, then took the notebook and hid it inside the drawer. Monday. School would be starting again. She wondered how things would go from the start until the rest of the year. Author's Note The longest chapter I've made so far. There is a portion here as well where, while listening to A-Ha's "Take On Me", I had an inspiration and made that part. Spot where that part is...
IV. Lessons To LearnMonday came so fast that Sunset almost never made it to school. She looked at the clock: 6 a.m. She was still sleepy, and the bed wouldn’t let her get up. Not that she wanted to. She was about to go back to sleep when she realized it’s the first day of school. Startled, she immediately got up, and tried to take the few steps to the bathroom. It was total agony for her, but thankfully she managed to somehow make it. How could I even forget this day? She thought as she fixed her hair up and brushed her teeth. She then went out and opened the cabinet, looking for something nice to wear. She got a black pair of jeans and a blue shirt. Walking down towards the kitchen, she thought of the day ahead. Of course, there would be classes. That’s a given. She wondered who will the teachers be. Naturally as well she’d see the group. And Sonata. She wondered if Adagio and Aria would be around, since she hasn’t heard from Sonata if they’d be back at school. She drank her coffee while waiting for the bread to toast. All things considered, she reasoned, things had worked well so far, though Applejack still had reservations about Sonata. It will straighten itself out, she figured as she ate her toast and then went out to walk towards school. A couple of buses passed her, headed towards Canterlot High. She didn’t notice them as she walked on, lost in thought. A few more minutes passed before she looked up and saw the school. Unlike last Saturday, now the campus looked busy with people either milling about or else walking straight in. The group agreed to meet at the school canteen later, so she didn’t expect to bump into any of them unless they’re going at the same time she did. She did see Flash though. Flash Sentry, one of the boys at school, had become one of her friends as well. Perhaps not as close as the Rainbooms, but still they had been more than just mere acquaintances. “Nice to see you”, Flash greeted. Flash looked especially handsome that day, his blue hair neatly done. “Hey there”, she greeted back. “So how was summer?” he asked as she stopped to chat. “It was mostly so-so”, she replied. “I did a few things, but then got bored.” “That’s too bad”, he said. “I didn’t get to see you back then.” She was about to comment that Canterlot’s a big city when she heard an excited voice greet her. “Hey there!” Pinkie greeted. She was smiling broadly. Sunset made a little wave, then saw that she was with Sonata, who smiled and also waved at her. “Hey, I see you made a new friend”, Flash said as the two walked towards them. “She’s really nice, once you get to know her”, was all she said as Pinkie and Sonata came over towards them. “I can’t wait for tacos!” Sonata said excitedly. “Tacos don’t happen until tomorrow”, Sunset remarked. Sonata’s excitement died down a bit. “Oh”, she said, a bit disappointed. “Don’t worry, we’ll get busy like we planned, and you won’t notice that it’s Tuesday already”, Pinkie assured her. Taco Tuesdays were something of an event in Canterlot High, which most of the school looked forward to. Sonata beamed at Pinkie when she said that. “So, you guys ready?” Sunset asked them. “Yes, oh yes!” both Pinkie and Sonata yelled, clapping their hands as they did so. “Well, looks like it’s time to go in”, Flash announced, and they all went together inside. “So, what’s your committee’s plans?” Sunset asked Pinkie as they went inside. “Oh, we have lots of things in store”, Pinkie said simply. “It’s going to be great, that’s for sure!” “We’re going to decorate the gym with balloons later this week”, Sonata added. “Sounds like a plan”, Sunset nodded. “Well, see you guys later.” She waved at them as she went to her class. The others waved back as well as they headed off to theirs. For the most part the group never had much of a chance to talk between classes as they rushed about going from one class to the other. Every now and then Sunset would catch a glimpse of some of them, but there wasn’t any chance for any of them to just as much as stop and chat since all of them were more focused on getting to the next class. And besides, we’ll meet at lunch anyway, she reasoned as she went to her next class. The whole morning passed uneventfully, though some moments in her class had some sort of excitement. Sunset was looking forward more to lunch than anything else though. And it’s not like there’s much to do at first day of school, she observed dryly as most of her teachers simply gave the introductions for the class and what to expect for the rest of the year. As soon as lunchtime came she headed quickly towards the school canteen. She already saw them seated at a table. Pinkie and Sonata were laughing and chatting, while Rarity was discussing something to Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash and Applejack were just seated, listening to them when Sunset approached them. “Sit over here darling”, Rarity motioned to her as she went near. There was a place just next to Rarity. Sunset took it and sat down. She was seated just across Pinkie and Sonata, who were still busy chatting. “I was just telling Fluttershy here about that lovely skirt I found in New York”, Rarity said, turning to her. “I’ll bring it tomorrow so you can see it as well.” “So how did your day go?” Sunset asked her. “Oh, the usual first day”, Rarity casually remarked. “First days aren’t exactly exciting, just boring introductions.” “Same for me, too”, Sunset agreed. “Glad the day’s almost coming to an end.” She was about to turn her attention to Pinkie and Sonata when she caught sight of three people coming towards their seat. She quickly motioned to both Pinkie and Sonata. They stopped talking as the trio neared their place. “Well, well, look what we have here”, the voice said, dripping with sarcasm. Pinkie, Sonata, and Applejack turned to look at the one talking. There, standing near them, were Adagio Dazzle, Aria Blaze and a new girl they haven’t seen before. “So, looks like you found a new friend”, Adagio continued, smirking at them while looking pointedly at Sonata. “Just be careful about your new friend—she might be a snake as well.” Her voice was dripping with malice as she continued to taunt them, especially at Sonata. Rainbow Dash stood up and addressed her. “We don’t want trouble with your group, Adagio”, she warned her. Sunset also stood and motioned for Dash to back down, and then looked at Adagio. “What do you want?” she asked. “I just heard you have a new friend, so I went to check it out”, Adagio shot back, her smirk still on her face. She turned her attention back to Sonata, who still looked at her. “And just so you know, we have a new friend as well. Meet Crescenda Beat.” Crescenda grinned, but it was with the same malice that Adagio had. “So we don’t need little tramps like you!” she went on, drawing her face close to Sonata. At that Sunset went over her to get some distance between her and Sonata. “Back off, Adagio”, she warned her calmly. “You know you’re outnumbered here.” Adagio’s smirk came off, and now she was just seething at them. “Your little group won’t get away with what you did the last time”, she gave her own warning to them. “We may have lost our powers, but we can still hurt you in many ways.” “Just try”, Sunset said coldly, her arms folded. Adagio gave once last contemptuous look at them, then turned and stalked away. The two followed her as she went off seething with rage. Sunset went back to her seat and sighed, putting a hand on her forehead. Although she expected it, she still didn’t relish having to meet Adagio and her group on the first day. “Looks like trouble”, Applejack commented as the trio went out of the canteen. “Don’t you worry, we’re here to protect you”, Pinkie said, smiling at Sonata. “How in blazes are we supposed to do that?” Applejack retorted. She still had some mistrust over Sonata, although with what she just witnessed she’s slowly coming around to at least having her near their group. “We’ll just have to do it, whatever it takes”, Sunset said, still rubbing her forehead. “Well, if I’m any sort of trouble…” Sonata began, but Rarity quickly cut her off. “Nonsense darling”, she said as she patted her hand. “You’re safe here with us.” “I’m here to watch over her”, Pinkie added cheerfully. “Good call, Pinkie”, Sunset nodded. “I think it’s best you’re near her, just in case Adagio tries anything funny.” “Oh, she can’t do that, I’m the one who’s funny”, Pinkie continued to smile as she said that, and the others just groaned at that. Except Sonata. She smiled back at Pinkie. “I can be funny, too”, she said to her, and they slapped their hands together. “Looks like this is going to be one long year”, Applejack just sighed as Pinkie and Sonata giggled silly. The rest of the day went back to being uneventful, and Sunset was just glad when her last class was over and she could finally slide off her seat and get home. She saw the group waiting for her at the hallway. “Been waiting for you, darling”, Rarity said as she came over to them. Sunset looked around, pleased that everyone was there. “I don’t think Adagio would try anything with us around”, Rainbow Dash said. “She does threaten, but I don’t think she’ll be foolish enough to move with many people around”, agreed Sunset. “When we had powers, she would probably still try”, commented Sonata. “But now that it’s gone, you might be right that she won’t.” “Of course she won’t”, Pinkie chimed in. “I’m right here!” “It’s like you’re my sister”, exclaimed Sonata. “Hhmm…now that’s a nice idea”, Pinkie grinned happily. Sunset smiled. She could see that the two were bonding along nicely, and that Pinkie seemed to have a good influence over Sonata. She didn’t see any problem about her—for a long time Sonata had the unfortunate luck of being with the wrong people. With the right people with her, she reasoned to herself, Sonata can truly shine on her own. They parted ways at a corner near Canterlot High, each of them going to their own homes. Pinkie as usual volunteered to take Sonata home, and both Fluttershy and Rarity went along with them. As her usual routine, Sunset went home alone to gather her thoughts for the day. Although they held off Adagio and her pals, she knew that they’d bump into her more often. In their quarters, Adagio still fumed at the incident earlier at lunch in Canterlot High. Silently Aria and new member Crescenda just watched as Adagio continued to vent her anger out. “I have been humiliated by them!” she raged while pacing about. “They don’t realize what Adagio can do to them! And that little tramp—wait until I get my hands on her!” Crescenda just yawned. “Yeah, you did boot her off in the first place”, she casually said. Adagio stopped pacing, turned and then calmly went towards her. “My dear Crescenda”, she began, “if there’s one thing you should learn in this group is to never, ever contradict me!” Crescenda though was unfazed. “I didn’t even contradict you—you said so yourself that you took her off your group”, she corrected Adagio. That drove her totally mad, for a moment turning her rage over to Crescenda before controlling it. She breathed hard as she regained her composure. “I think that little tramp should be taught a lesson before anything else”, she declared. “What for? You don’t want her around anyway”, Crescenda stated. Adagio shot a glance at Aria. Aria just shrugged. “Listen, we work as a team”, Adagio lectured at Crescenda. “Don’t even try to think that you can act like that around me.” “Hey, I never did ask to be in your group”, Crescenda objected. “She was the one who invited me.” She pointed at Aria. “I’m only returning the favor”, explained Aria. “I had to put up with that tramp for years; now you have to deal with what I put up through all that time.” Adagio shook her head. She knew she had to get a grip on the two before their group fell apart. “Okay, let me again lay it down to both of you: I am in charge here”, she told them, facing them and slamming her hands on the table. “You will do as you’re told, or it’s the boot for the both of you!” “We’re still talking world domination here, right?” Aria said, just to make things clear. “Right now that’s not on my mind”, Adagio clarified. “All I want is to get back at them, and I am including that tramp along on my revenge!” “I still don’t get that part of including her in your plans”, Crescenda said. “It’s because she really hasn’t contributed much to our past plans”, Aria responded. “She’s just there with us, if you get my point. And she’s the reason why we were defeated.” Aria managed to add the last one to put the blame on Sonata, as she never felt that Sonata belonged with them and it was a mistake for Adagio to include her. As well it was her machination that led to Adagio forcing Sonata out. “She has joined them, so she’s one of them”, Adagio explained it more simply. “That’s all there is to it, and she will go down with the rest of them!” “Why not then trick her into causing them to break up?” Crescenda again asked. Adagio smiled evilly at that thought. “It’s been done before, but there is always something in destroying friendships”, she hissed with delight. “I like how you think. You might yet prove to be worthy of our group…” Then, she drew her face closer to Crescenda, “As long as you follow my lead!” Crescenda just stared back at her, still unmoved. “Sure. Whatever you say”, she finally replied without much emotion. Adagio drew back, satisfied. “I see we’re getting into some understanding”, she finally said, satisfied that Crescenda was at least playing her role. “Now, we come to the fun part, where we destroy their group…” Sonata was looking forward to Taco Tuesday, and now that day has arrived. After a rather mundane morning, Sunset went to the canteen to meet the group for lunch. After their run-in with Adagio and her pals, she’s more than they’d be back again to disturb them. Slipping into the canteen though, she couldn’t see a sign of them. Probably spending their time skulking somewhere else, she thought, though she pushed that away from her mind as she saw the group at their usual table. She went over and looked at them. Someone wasn’t with them. “So where’s Sonata?” she asked them. Applejack pointed at the line that has formed for the tacos. “She’s right there”, she motioned, and Sunset turned to see Sonata first in line for the tacos. I should have guessed, she told herself as she sat down with the group. While seated, she watched as Sonata eagerly took the first of the tacos, helping herself to two of them before going to their table. Her eyes were gleaming as she sat down and just looked happily at the couple of tacos sitting on the plate right in front of her. “I have to admit, they look tasty”, Rainbow Dash acknowledged as Sonata helped herself to one of them. She ate happily while the others talked. “So, any sign of Adagio or her cronies?” Applejack asked. The others shook their heads. She wondered about that. “Funny, I would’ve thought they’d show in one of our classes.” “I wonder about that as well”, Sunset said, though she also thought of the possibility that their classes would have been at a different time from hers. Still though, one of them should have seen Adagio or the other two in one of their classes. “Maybe they didn’t decide to go back here after all”, Pinkie reasoned. Doubtful, but possible, Sunset admitted to herself, though she also thought it was highly unlikely that they'd just drop out of school. “I think I’ll go and dig up what I can about it”, Rainbow Dash said, and the others agreed. Meanwhile, Sonata had already finished her first taco. She took the second one, and then surprisingly offered it to Pinkie. Her eyes widened at Sonata’s gesture. “Really for me?” she said, not knowing what to say. “For realsies”, Sonata said, beaming widely. “It’s for my ‘sister’.” Pinkie took it, still not knowing what to say. That moment was not lost on Sunset or the others. They could see Sonata learning more the true nature of friendship. Later, that night, Sunset wrote what happened in the canteen. She wrote that as much as Sonata was learning, she was in a way also teaching the others the value of friendship and the power of giving to others. She realized that it was much more than anything she learned in class that day, that one gesture could make all the difference on another. She knew that Sonata was on her way to becoming the real person she was meant to be. Author's Note Notes are now on my blog, so hope to look it up there...
V. A Gym and An AlleywayPatiently, Adagio had been conceiving a plan to destroy the Rainbooms’ unity. She went through a number of scenarios in her mind, and it had occupied much of her time. So much, in fact, that she and the other Dazzlings didn’t even show up for either Tuesday or Wednesday classes, which was fine by Adagio. Though definitely it was irritating their newest member. “What is that plan again?” Clearly Crescenda was already annoyed. They had missed classes yesterday at Adagio’s insistence, and then today she asked them again to join her at their quarters. Adagio faced them as Crescenda and Aria sat at the sofa. “I have something in my mind—we send a fake text message to one of them and let it spread among them”, Adagio said with malicious glee. “So how are you going to do that?” Crescenda was asking the questions not out of any particular interest, but because she was still annoyed that she couldn’t go to class just because of Adagio’s obsession over the Rainbooms. “With this”, Adagio held up her own smart phone. “We just send out a text message to one of them…” “You do realize that they know each other’s numbers, right?” Crescenda cut her off. “And that’s why I’ll send that fake message saying I lost my phone and need her help”, explained Adagio calmly. “Now who would be dumb enough to fall for that?” followed up Crescenda, but Adagio merely gave her a wicked smile. “Ah, you mean her?” Crescenda answered her own question. “My, you catch on real fast”, said Adagio with a bit of sarcasm, though she was clearly proud of her as well for such a fast learner. “Don’t forget that I still have that twerp’s number with me!” “But wouldn’t she know it’s you?” Crescenda pressed on. “I’m way ahead on that”, countered Adagio as she took something out of her pocket, “with this!” She held up a new SIM card for them to see. Aria gave her usual blasé clap, complete with an expressionless face. Crescenda just sat there without much emotion. Adagio went on, ignoring their non-expressions. “Dual SIM phones are a wonder”, she said, half in admiration for the technology, and half grateful that such a thing existed. She took off the back cover, put in the new SIM into the other SIM slot, then replaced the cover. After a few taps on her smart phone, she triumphantly held the phone back up for them to see. “Now we’re in business!” she said, giving them again that evil grin. “So what happens next?” This time it was Aria who asked the question. “I’ll send that message to her, posing as one of her friends, and send her over to a secluded spot”, Adagio now began to reveal the rest of the plot. “There we will be waiting for her, and I’ll tell her some things about her so-called friends.” She looked at them, waiting for some reaction from any of them, but she noted that Crescenda was only irked. “That’s it?” Crescenda said, now greatly annoyed. “You had us absent for two days just to tell us of that silly plan of yours?” Adagio’s rage began to boil over at what she perceived to be a challenge to her. “Why, you have a better plan?” she snapped back at her. “I never did hear any of you give me suggestions while I am agonizing on what to do to them!” “You’re too obsessed about it”, Crescenda remarked. Now that really brought Adagio to the tipping point. “Listen, I will not let any of them take what should have been mine!” she now almost screamed. “We could have won if it weren’t for them! We were so close, and they have to get in the way! I want to see them break up, and one by one I will get them!” “Don’t forget, that little tramp will be the first”, Aria added quietly, though inwardly she was just as much relishing what would happen. “She will be the first”, vowed Adagio. “Mental torture would be much more fun than anything else! Casting doubts to sow the seeds of betrayal—now wouldn’t that be exciting?!” she asked, though she wasn’t actually waiting for them to answer a rhetorical question. “Wonderful and dramatic”, deadpanned Crescenda. “But I hope it will work.” “Oh it will”, Adagio now said, imagining how things will be. “So when will we make this happen?” Aria asked. “Very soon, this Friday in fact at the school’s first assembly in the gym”, Adagio replied. “While people are busy we will spring this plan into action…” She gave them a wicked grin after saying it, her eyes now glinting with much malice. The week went by quite fast, and already Friday came. Sunset was already at school early, but didn’t go in just yet as she waited for the others to arrive. She saw Rainbow Dash coming, hurrying up a bit as she approached school. “Glad to have found you”, she said when she reached her, panting a bit since she had hurried. With a questioning look, Sunset faced her. “What is it all about?” she asked her. “Well, I found out that they still haven’t left school. They’re..” before she could finish, both of them saw the three walking together in formation, their faces smug as they walked. “Looks like they’ve decided to show up”, Sunset said, eyeing them carefully. The two groups were silent as the Dazzlings passed them by, though with a glint in her eye Adagio eyed Sunset as she passed. Sunset didn’t react too much, though she was wary of them. “Creepy”, Rainbow Dash shivered when they were gone. “I don’t like what I felt when they passed, either”, admitted Sunset. Then she turned to walk in. “Come on, let’s check out what Pinkie and Sonata did to the gym”, she invited, to get the chilly feeling off. They walked towards the gym. It was still rather early, so there were few people. Sunset kept her guard though, just in case any of the Dazzlings, or even all of them, suddenly showed up, but they haven’t encountered any of them as they headed towards the gym. Finally they arrived. Sunset opened the doors and gasped with what she saw. Rainbow Dash as well marveled at the sight. The gym had balloons all over, plus brightly colored paper as well as other ornaments on display. The gym had been decorated in such a way as to give a real feeling of cheerfulness. The two can feel the personalities of the two at the sight—it was clearly the work of two lively, cheerful people. “So they did all these, just the two of them?” Rainbow Dash said, unable to stop being impressed. Even Sunset couldn’t stop smiling. It was truly a welcome sight, something that would cheer anyone coming in. “They really deserve congratulations”, she said as she took out her smart phone and began sending messages to them. “Real neat that they worked hard for this. No wonder they said they’d be late going home the past few days”, Sunset said after sending the messages. “I wonder if they had any help”, Rainbow Dash wondered, still gaping at the sight. “If ever that would be Rarity, but I doubt since the way it is decorated don’t seem like the way she would put it”, observed Sunset. “But certainly someone helped them do this”, she continued. “Well, it is still lovely”, Rainbow Dash said, and Sunset agreed. She looked at her watch. “Assembly here would be 2 hours before lunch”, she remarked, “so we only have about an hour for classes. Guess that’s enough time for lab.” “I can’t wait for it”, Rainbow Dash said as her excitement began to build up. “You must be looking forward to this year’s sports program”, Sunset looked at her, seeing how much excited her friend already was. Dash nodded. “It’s time to show them who’s the best!” she said with a yell. “The others must be outside by now”, Sunset said as she looked at her watch again. She looked around some more, then turned around to head out. “Let’s go and wait for them at the school entrance”, she said to Rainbow Dash. Dash nodded, then followed her to the entrance. The hour dragged by more slowly than she imagined it to be, observed Sunset as she was in lab. Normally she wouldn’t have minded it, as lab was her getaway, where she can go over the experiments and equipment and whatever else was inside it. Now though she can’t wait for the assembly to start, as it would kick off not only the school year, but the sports program as well. Dash would be very excited by now, she thought as she tried hard to get into what she had to do. It wasn’t working out, though she had to concentrate real hard just to make it work. While working though, her mind was as well already on her friends. She also thought of Pinkie and Sonata, who worked hard decorating the gym. And as well, Rarity would most likely be waiting for this, if only to look at how the decoration turned out. Mercifully, the time came for the students to go to the gym after a brief announcement from Principal Celestia. She followed the students who trooped toward the gym. She thought of waiting for any of the group to pass her class, but with the many students going there it was almost impossible to see any of them, so she simply went ahead. Or behind, as the case may be. She saw that most of the students were already inside when she arrived. Most of them were standing in the middle of the court, while others were seated on the bleachers. Too many people seated already, she figured as she scanned both for a seat and for her friends. She was tempted to take out her smart phone, but she thought that the others might have had their phones on silent mode. She then did what she had to: she steeled herself and waded into the crowd, going to a spot that she felt would be where they were. As the students gathered inside the gym, three figures quietly slipped away and went outside. Besides the gym was the soccer field, and the three stood there to map out their next move. Adagio quietly motioned that she would go to the top of the building adjacent to the gym, while the two went away to go outside the school to the designated place where they would meet. With the campus deserted, since most of the students and faculty were in the gym, it wasn’t hard for her to get into the building. Adagio climbed the stairs until she reached the topmost floor. It was an open space, which gave a very good view of the whole campus. She could see the gym just across, and spy whoever would go in or out of it. Quickly she put her plan into action. Taking out her phone, she began to tap and then send the fake message to Sonata. She then waited. A few minutes passed by and she was getting impatient. She kept looking at her phone for some message on it. That tramp probably has her phone on silent, she realized, and was about to go down and call it off when she saw Sonata’s reply. She exalted silently, then sent a message to the two Dazzlings now waiting at the alleyway to get ready. A few more seconds passed before she saw Sonata come out the gym. She hurriedly went down the building, careful not to let anyone see her, especially not Sonata. She went to a shortcut towards the alleyway so she could be there ahead of her. Before Sonata went out, she sent a message from her phone to Sunset, telling her that one of the group needed her help in looking for her phone, which she said must be around the alleyway near school. Luckily at that moment Sunset put her phone out to check if anyone has sent a message. She read it, and was about to put the phone back into her pocket when she realized something. Wait a minute, everyone should be here, she thought. Dreading the worst, she sent a group message to the others, asking them if anyone lost her phone. I hope they read it, she said to herself as she waited nervously for their replies. One after another they replied, all saying they have their phone, though she really didn’t need to know that the moment their replies came in. She then told them what transpired, and then said that she’d be going out to tail her. Hopefully I’m not too late, she thought glumly. She had to fight her way out the crush of people, which ate up precious minutes. She knew every second would count, especially in a case like this. Finally she got out. She stood for a second outside the gym, realizing she hadn’t the faintest idea where Sonata went. She checked again her phone to find out for a clue. She said something about an alley, she noted, reading again the message. She thought for a moment about it, then remembered about an alley just near the school, which was rather deserted and lonely. After firing off a quick message to the others, she ran as fast as she could toward the place. Sonata walked at a fast pace, almost sprinting, as she went to the place that the message said she should go to. Ever since she had met the group, that willingness to help, to really belong with them, came to her. It must be Pinkie, or Dashie, or anyone of them, she thought, trying to figure out who among them could’ve lost her smart phone. She didn’t recognize the number, though that wasn’t unusual, she thought, since the person must have used another one’s phone to send the message. At last she came to the place. She looked around. The alleyway was a narrow place between two buildings. It was just at the back of the school. Actually the fastest way to get there was to climb the wall at the campus’ end, at which that alley would then be directly at the other side of it. And there, standing and waiting for her, were the Dazzlings. When she saw them, she was shocked. She began to tremble, especially at the sight of Adagio. “Finally, it is nice to see you again, ‘sister’”, Adagio said with a snide. Sonata was rooted to the spot where she was standing, unable to get away, even though at that moment every fiber in her body was already screaming for her to flee. Somehow though, she couldn’t do it. But her eyes were wide with fear, for she knew what Adagio can do. Adagio sensed her fear, and she laughed evilly when she sensed it. “What’s the matter, aren’t you glad to see your ‘friends’ again?” she said, still taunting her. Beside her stood Aria and Crescenda, also giving out menacing grins. She took a step forward, just a small but calculated step, enough to see what would Sonata’s reaction be. She again gave out that menacing chuckle. “I am not here to frighten you, Sonata”, she declared as she took another step. “I have something to tell you; no, actually to show you”, she said as she now stood much nearer to her. Despite her fear, or maybe because of it, Sonata didn’t turn or run, but she stood there, even though she was trembling. “You really want to know your new friends?” Adagio said, more of a statement than a question really. “Well I have something to show you.” She stood, took out some photos, and threw them on the ground. They were the pictures of Sunset, before she met and befriended Twilight Sparkle and the Rainbooms. “That’s your friend right there”, she said, still tauntingly. “Charming, isn’t she? You want to know more?” Sonata just stood, her gaze partly at the pictures and partly at Adagio. She didn’t reply though to any of what she said. “What if I told you she’s every way just like me, that she’s just as bad as I am, or even worse?” She now laughed at that. “You’re thinking that I’m bad, right? For kicking you out of our group? But your new friends have no need for you anymore than we do. And you might even be better off with us.” She laughed again. In any other time Sonata might have run at that point. She might have gone as far as she could. She didn’t want to listen anymore to Adagio. But she stood there. And at that moment, she found her true self. Whatever it was, she found a resolve that she never knew she had. She stood her ground, her eyes suddenly taking on a determination it never had before. “No Adagio”, she said firmly. “You’re wrong about something: Sunset isn’t like that at all. She never showed herself to be like that.” That declaration stunned Adagio. She didn’t expected that. She had always tagged Sonata to be the dim one, to be easily manipulated. For so many years she made sure that she would play by her hand. But what was happening was all unexpected. Aria and Crescenda weren’t prepared for it as well. They looked at Adagio, unsure what to do. Crescenda spoke up. “Looks like your little plan failed”, she said to Adagio. “Guess we need to be more drastic.” Adagio nodded at her, then turned her attention again to Sonata. “What did you just say, you little tramp?” She could feel her grip on her loosening. Just a little perhaps, but she could feel a change. And slowly, she could feel panic rising. Just a little, but it was there. She stepped forward, but Sonata just stood there. She could see her stance wasn’t what she was accustomed to—it was a different Sonata that stood before her. “What was that again you said?” she repeated. “You now have the courage to defy me? I was hoping to have this settled in a more peaceful manner, maybe let you run away after shattering your spirit, but I see I now have to do it the hard way.” She made another step, and the other two at both her sides also began to step forward. Sonata saw this and began to back away. “Don’t you make another step”, a voice said, and Sonata turned to see Sunset standing behind her. Her eyes were like steel, hard and cold, fixed intently on Adagio. For a moment Adagio snapped out of her demeanor, shaken at the sight of Sunset before her. Her panic began to grow now. But she held on and got a grip of herself, locking her eyes with Sunset. “My, you arrived just in time”, she said, finding her rhythm once again. “I was just introducing you to your new friend here”. At the mention of the word ‘friend’, she spat it out with disgust. “Let her go”, Sunset said, her voice hard. “It’s me and the Rainbooms you’re after, not her.” She spoke with measured pace, just enough to keep the sound of a threat without actually saying one. While waiting for Adagio to say something, she addressed Sonata without turning around to her, keeping her gaze fixed at Adagio. “Back down, Sonata”, she said. Sonata nodded, stepping aside and going right behind her. “Brave”, Adagio said. “I’ll give you that. But let’s see if you’re a match for me.” She then took a different stance. Now she was ready to fight. “I never did want to do this”, she said to Sunset. “I could always do this if I wanted to, but I’d rather use my pendant to do the work for me. But you broke our pendants. Now thanks to you and your little friends, I might have to show you what I can do.” She lunged forward at a fast pace, her hands now clenched. She was fast, but Sunset was faster. She made a quick move, evading Adagio’s lunge. Adagio almost fell forward as her momentum got her off balanced. She grunted with rage for missing Sunset, then turned and charged again. And again Sunset made a quick sidestep to avoid her. Yet again Adagio almost fell down from her own move. She was now clenching her teeth, mad at Sunset for evading her so far. She tried to do it again, quickening her pace a little bit to keep Sunset off guard. But yet again she missed as Sunset stood aside to avoid her. While all of that was happening, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Fluttershy and Rarity arrived. They saw what was happening, and went over to Sonata’s side. They wanted to help out, but quickly saw that so far Sunset seemed to be holding her own very well. Adagio made several more lunges, but all of them failed. Each time she almost got Sunset, but not quite. And at each miss, she was getting more and more frustrated. This never happened to her before. Her rage, her anger, was slowly unbalancing her. Aria noticed it, too. She had never seen Adagio in so much rage. She saw that with each frustrated attempt, she was losing her balance and getting even more blinded with rage. Adagio was now more and more becoming a wreck. She was frightened for Adagio, frightened at what was happening. She could feel that at any moment she could snap. It was as if nothing else was fueling Adagio other than pure, blind rage. “Come here, you!” Adagio was now screaming. She was getting tired and frustrated, each swing, each lunge taking more and more of her energy. But what was tiring her was her anger, as she could not lash out at the person in front of her. She was tired, and she was at the breaking point. It went on for a few more minutes until she finally collapsed on her hands and knees, spent from both chasing around Sunset and he own rage. Sunset now just stood above her. She looked up, seeing her tower over her. She knew that she had her. “Come on, hit me!” she screamed at her, looking up at her. Now tears were falling down in her frustration. “Get it over with and hit me!” She began to sob and looked down, head bowed. “We were so close…we could have had it…” she said, sobbing. Sunset just stood there, looking down on her. Her eyes were still hard. She gazed at her like that while she spoke. “No, I don’t have to. You’re broken, Adagio. There’s no need for me to hit you.” She spoke with measured words, her voice cold and hard. The Rainbooms were transfixed with what they were witnessing, awed at the calmness of Sunset. Sonata looked at Adagio, still on her hands and knees and sobbing. She felt pity for her. She went over standing beside Sunset, then gently lowered herself until she was almost level to Adagio, at the same time stretching her hand to reach out to her. Adagio turned, her gaze still wild, her face twisted with rage. “You!” she screamed at her. “Get away from me! Don’t you ever touch me!” She then stood up, and still sobbing ran away. Aria and Crescenda looked at each other, looked at Sunset, then ran after Adagio. Sonata was still in that position, shocked from Adagio’s reaction. Pinkie went over and hugged her. Sonata wept, very much sad at what had happened. Sunset’s eyes softened. She looked at Sonata, reaching out for her. Sonata took her hand and stood up, hugging her. She let Sonata weep and let her emotions flow. Later they went back to school. Classes after all had not yet ended. Principal Celestia met them and wondered where they went since she wanted to thank Pinkie and Sonata about the decorations, but she decided to just do it some other time when she saw how they looked. She didn’t inquire anymore what happened, but let them go to their classes. Before the school day ended, Sunset was at the music room. She had taken out her guitar and now was strumming, her mind wandering to what just happened. She realized she had done something she hadn’t done in a long time: she stood up to someone. She let a part of her she thought had been gone come back. But she wasn’t frightened. Somehow, she realized that she could put that part of her do good, to help others if the situation called for it. It was an older part of herself, yet at the same time a new thing. She didn’t understand much of it yet, but perhaps in the coming days she will. She was still lost in the moment when the door opened. She looked up, and there was Sonata. She smiled when she saw her. Sonata went over to where she was. “I would just like to say, thank you for what you did”, she said, a little bit shyly. “That’s nothing”, she replied. “You’re our friend, and we’re here to help you out.” She then motioned for Sonata to sit. After sitting down, she continued talking to her. “I’ve been meaning to tell you this”, she began, “but I can see that you’re really a kind, brave, and intelligent girl.” Sonata looked at her and gave her a sheepish smile. “I think you’re just being silly because you don’t think anyone would like your serious side, that you’re afraid that people might take not see you for who you are.” Sonata didn’t speak at once, considering what Sunset just said. “I’m just being silly because I don’t want to get hurt”, she said. “I guess you could say that it’s my defense, my way of trying to shield myself.” Sunset nodded. “But”, Sonata went on, “that’s just between the two of us. Don’ tell anyone, not especially Pinkie.” Sunset smiled. “I won’t.” Sonata smiled, then got up. “Pinkie’s out waiting for me. She said that she’d treat me out.” She beamed. “I think we’ll hang out a lot, for realsies!” She waved then went out the room. Sunset just sat there for a moment, tucked away her guitar, and headed out. Adagio stumbled into their quarters, not bothering to turn on the lights. She went to the chair, flinging herself wildly. She was still sobbing, pounding the table in anger. She was beaten, much more so than what happened at the Battle of the Bands. She couldn’t accept her helplessness, her inability to just even as much as sneak a punch at Sunset. She was losing it, her mind now filled with nothing but hate and revenge. Then she began to laugh. A laugh that she never did before. Aria and Crescenda came to the door and heard it. They heard the laugh. Aria trembled with fright. She had never seen Adagio like that before. It was like she had lost all sanity. From within she could hear her talk. “Oh, I will get you, Sunset Shimmer! You just wait and see! I will have my revenge!” She raved like that. Aria and Crescenda backed away from the door, running far from the place. They knew something had changed in Adagio, and they weren’t in the least bit comfortable with it. That night, Sunset wrote again on her notebook. She described what happened, how things went. As she was closing it, she realized that, in a way, Sonata had forgiven herself and accepted who she was. She saw that she has grown in just a short time. But she also realized there was still much to do. Adagio was still out there, as well as Aria and their new member, Crescenda. Maybe she and the Rainbooms wouldn’t be able to reach out to them just yet, but sooner or later it might change. She’s not certain of anything yet, but at least the one thing that’s certain was that Sonata’s on her way to the path of redemption, and it was a path that leads to healing.
