I Don't Want to be Aloneby SonariaChaptersHuman EmotionsWatching the CloudsHuman TearsUntil DuskHuman Emotions"I can't," a young, seemingly harmless girl spoke quietly to herself, "do this on my own." This young girl, appearing to be around 16 or 17, sat on a bench on top of a tall hill overlooking the city she was staying in. It was a place she discovered years ago with her two companions while exploring. At the time, she didn't care about the view, or how isolated it was, all she was worried about was revenge and power. Now, on the other hand, it's a place where she came when she felt alone and sad-feelings she had never had before-or when she just wanted to think or be alone. She still had her two idiots of course, but they had each other above all. The two shared a bond, and cared deeply for each other. They cared for their used-to-be leader as well, but they cared more about each other it seemed. It was her own fault. Back when the three still had their magic and power she pushed them around and pushed them closer. She never cared to coddle them or be a comforting figure to them. She was their leader, and that was that. Now, she regretted it. She sat alone on a cliff watching over the city, only wishing she could have a bond with themor anyoneas warm and strong as the one they had already. Now, she had no one. At least that's how it felt. Sure, she had those two to keep her company, even if she felt lonely in theirs, they were there. And she could say they understood the way she felt. They had all gone through the same thing, with the battle of the bands and all. Each of them lost their power, their magic, their whole identity. She could say they understood, but she wasn't sure they truly did. "Maybe I have them," she spoke again to no one in particular, "but where are they now?" Her question was asked in short and her tone had morphed into bitterness. The question remained open for a period of time as she thought about them and the answer. They were home, where she left them, more than likely sleeping in each other's arms, comforting each other. Adagio let out a sigh as she looked up into the summer night sky. She reflected on her past, and thought about how it was effecting her now. All of those terrible comments, and every time she didn't care how they felt.. Each one of those moments pushed her into this world without a single soul she could run to. She had only pushed Aria and Sonata into each other's arms with her coldness. They had always had that special bond because of Adagio. She didn't have a special bond with them, aside from the big Battle. As she looked over the city, a realization hit her. In this giant city, her reputation had been destroyed, no one in Canterlot would talk to her or her friends. And without her powers, she was unable to leave to another city, which meant she was stuck here. At least in another city she would have a chance to find someone, anyone, that would give her the time of day or attention and comfort. With one last glance over the city, Adagio stood from the bench. It must have been late by now, but it was hard to say. She didn't have anything on her that would tell her the time. It didn't matter, though. Whatever time it was was useless to her considering she had no curfew and didn't attend school. The three had tried returning to Canterlot High after the events that took placeCelestia told them they were allowed if they wishedbut, to put it simply, it just didn't work out very well and they stopped after the first day. Sonata, on the other hand, went a full week before she gave up. Adagio found the trail that lead her up this small mountain and began her journey down it. It was a short trip down, the look out wasn't far from where she was staying and she was grateful for that. She found herself half way down the trail when she heard foot steps. This threw her off guard since she never saw anyone else at the look out. For some reason, it never had visitors. At least, not when Adagio visited it. Part of her didn't mind. It was nice being alone. A different part of her wished another lonely soul came to the look out. She could talk to them, and everything would go downhill from there. And tonight could be the night. Curious, she continued walking and rounded the curve of the trail. Then, she and the person froze as their eyes met. Adagio's surprise immediately changed to anger and she narrowed her eyes. Her insides boiled with hatred as she stared into the eyes of the girl that ripped everything away from her. Sunset Shimmer Sunset stared back at Adagio. Her surprise stayed longer than Adagio's, and she appeared much more nervous, but she held herself together and composed. "Uh," the flamed hair girl started. "Uh?" Adagio asked shortly. "What are you doing out here?" she asked slowly as if she wasn't sure what she was asking. The ex-siren scoffed, "oh please, like you really want to know." "Well, I do." Sunset's answer took Adagio off guard. She expected anything besides a friendly response from her. Trying to compose herself, she quickly shot out, "okay, well what are you doing out here?" "Oh, um," Sunset started. Her eyes made a curved motion from the sky, to the trees, then to the ground trying to find a way to answer. Adagio remained quiet and waited for her. Honestly, she wanted to know why Sunset would be all the way out here all alone. "Wait, you definitely don't care, so," the fiery haired girl's voice trailed off as she turned her head and gave a sideways look. She was right. Or would have been. Anytime before the Battle, Adagio wouldn't have cared why Sunny was up here so late. However, ever since then, she's had new feelings, emotions, and thoughts, and tonight, she did care. She hated Sunset and her friends, but Adagio knew that if anyone in this god forsaken town would spare her a second glance it would be Sunset, and she was going to work with it. "Well, if we're done here, then I'm just going to," Sunset said as she pointed past the former leader of The Dazzlings and stepped forward, only to be cut off by her, standing just a hair from being uncomfortably close. "No," she said with a smirk and that sultry voice of her's, "I do care, Sunset." Sunset took a step back and crinkled her brow in confusion at the ex-siren. She studied Adagio and her expression. It was hard to read, and it was even harder to tell if she was sincere or not. She continued on anyways. "I like to get away from the noise." "The noise?" she cocked a brow. "Yes, the noise. The noise of the city, of my friends, of my own thoughts." Adagio scoffed again. The "of my own thoughts" part sounded too dramatic. Who comes to a place alone to get rid of their own thoughts? Well, actually that was the exact same thing she was doing. Something inside the former leader clicked: Sunset knows what it feels like. She understands! Sunset groaned, "if you're just going to scoff at me, then why did you say you cared?" She was pulled from her thoughts and looked back up to Sunset. The words were heard but they took a few seconds to register that she was asked a question. "It's," the sultry tone in her voice was gone now and her expression was more serious, "I can sort of relate." "Oh," Sunset scratched the back of her head, "can I ask what you're doing then?" The former leader looked back at the bit of the bench she could still see then turned back to Sunset, "I was doing the same thing." There was a silence between them. Sunset stared at Adagio, possibly taking in her words, trying to wrap her mind around the idea that former siren, big, bad Adagio, needed time away from herself. Adagio stared back, she stared into Sunset's eyes. They were warm, caring, and, most importantly, understanding. For the first time since the big event, Adagio felt something other than hatred, anger, sadness, and loneliness. What was it? She couldn't quite say. All she knew was that one of the people that ripped everything away from her, was here, showing her kindess. Not much kindness, but it was better than none at all. "Are you going home?" Sunset finally broke the silence. "I was about to." "Do you need to be home?" Adagio gave a short, but pained laugh, "no, I don't." "Would you.. Like to go up there with me?" Sunset took the ex-siren off guard once more. She stared back at her flame haired enemy, or used to be enemy? She stared back at her, into her eyes again, studied her face, searched for any sign of a lie. Nothing. As far as Adagio could see, everything in Sunset was sincere. But, regardless, she gave the question and answer serious though. Sunset and her friends stole everything from her, she wanted to hate her. She wanted to go with her too, though. This is exactly what Adagio had been waiting for, and she wasn't going to let it slip by because of who it was. "I can," she finally answered, making sure she sounded indifferent. "Great!" Sunny responded with a smile, then gestured towards the bench, "let's go then," she said as she walked passed Adagio. They sat on the bench, a fair distance away from each other. They did the same thing Adagio did only moments ago. Sat in silence, watching over the city, only now, she wasn't alone. And, though she would never admit it, she loved every second of it. Her eyes moved to the sky and watched the stars twinkle, her mind wasn't lost in her old, sad thoughts. Now, she wondered what Sunset was thinking. What was on her mind? Was she wondering the same thing? And would they talk? or only sit in silence? "How are things?" the former she-demon finally spoke while giving her used-to-be enemy a side long glance. Adagio looked to Sunset, then out to the city before giving her an answer. "They've been better," she said trying her hardest to keep the bitterness out of her voice. "Yeah, I've been there. It doesn't last forever." The Dazzling looked back at Sunset, but remained silent, waiting for her to continue. "That night, Fall Formal I mean, everything changed. I changed. I had everything, power, social status, two underclassmen that did what ever I said. I started drama, split everyone apart, and relished in the hatred everyone had. Princess Twilight came, and tore down every thing I built up," Sunset paused, "They blasted me with a rainbow, too, and that's when everything came crashing down on me. Everything hit me at once. Shame, loneliness, guilt, sadness, anger-you name it." Adagio remained quiet, she took in everything Sunset was telling her and related to. It was spot on, really. Their eyes met, and the ex-leader noticed tears had formed in Sunset's eyes. She almost asked why she was crying, but stopped herself, knowing obvious answers. It was worth a bet that she didn't have anyone to talk to about all of this either. At that moment, Adagio felt something for Sunset. She didn't know what, but she knew it wasn't hatred. It doesn't last forever. Sunset had said that just moments ago. It was a weird thought, knowing Sunset went through the same thing. It almost made Adagio hate the Rainbooms more for putting her through it too. Almost. She said it didn't last forever, and she was obviously right. Here was Sunset Shimmer, trying to help someone going through the same thing. She was alive, and well. Whatever she went through, she made it out of it fine. And she's in a much better place now. Mainly because of the Rainbooms. They gave her friendship and helped her get through it. From what Adagio saw, they sucked at helping Sunset with anything other than friendship. Even with that, they were still sort of bad at it. It was funny. Adagio had been waiting for this, not someone to relate to, but to meet with one of those Rainbow freaks one on one. She just wanted to let them know how much they took from them. Their magic, the only connection they had left to their old home. If she couldn't use her magic against them, maybe she could at least make them sick with guilt. It was petty and pathetic, but the siren turned human would take what she could. But now, here with Sunset, she had both that she had been waiting for. Only, she didn't want to make Sunset sick with guilt, or tell her how much they ruined the Dazzlings' lives. This understanding and caring girl sitting beside Adagio already was sick with guilt and knew already how it felt to have her life destroyed. Back in the hallway, before the big showcase, The Dazzlings had circled Shimmer, and they had made her feel terrible. That was the goal. They succeeded, of course. "Uh, hey," the fluffy haired girl finally spoke, drawing in Sunset's attention, "I'm sorry. When the girls and I circled you like sharks in the dim-lit hallway, I mean." Teal eyes widened slightly. Right then, as Sunset looked into the siren's eyes, Adagio knew no one had apologized to her, not sincerely anyways. How many times had she apologized to someone, or everyone? How many times was she accepted or rejected? Besides her friends, had anyone accepted her apologies? When Adagio went to Canterlot High, the students treated Sunset about as bad as they treat the ex-sirens now. "Oh, um. Thanks, Adagio," said Sunset, "that means a lot." "It's all right?" Adagio asked, "Apology accepted?" Sunset let out a soft laugh, "yeah, apology accepted." Another silence found its way between the two again. This time, Adagio sat and studied Sunset's profile and her features. The moon wasn't very bright, but it was bright enough to illuminate the night so that they could see each other. She wondered how someone so caring and kind could go and dominate a school. Well, scratch that, she knew. When a person wants something, there's the option to get it, and then there's the option to make sure you get it. "So, why di-" Adagio started but was cut off by Sunset's phone ringing. "I'm sorry," she said as she pulled her phone out of her pocket, "can I..?" Adagio gestured with her hand to let her know that she could answer it. The flaming haired girl stood from the bench and walked a few feet away from it. The former siren tried to listen, but she was unable to make any words out. Instead, she looked back out over the city, like she did before. Before she could get lost in her thoughts, Sunset walked back over to the bench, but she continued to stand rather than sit. "That was Rainbow Dash, she says that there's some sort of emergency, and I need to rush over to Pinkie Pie's," Sunset explained bluntly. Adagio turned to look at her, disappointment settling into her stomach and sadness returning to her chest, but it didn't show on her face. "So, you're going?" "Yeah," she rubbed the back of her neck, "maybe I'll see you around sometime," she gave an apologetic smile. Adagio stood, "I'll need to be getting home to my idiots soon anyways." "All right, see you then!" Sunset said with a small wave before she ran off down the trail. "See ya," the former siren said softly as she sat back on the bench. She had no where to be and no one to see. That was where she and Sunset differed. Sunset had friends, and she had places to go. Adagio gave a soft sigh and looked up at the sky. Author's Note Well, for some reason, this came to mind while I was writing a chapter for Where'd You Go?. I decided to just go ahead and write chapter one for this story, see how that goes. Add more to my plate, you know, fun stuff. I need an editor or a pre-reader, if anyone is interested, message me c: Don't forget to comment! Good, bad, helpful, rude, I wanna hear 'em all! Watching the CloudsAdagio walked into her living room through the front door. She looked around at her tiny living room, observing the little possessions that were there. Being home was more depressing than being alone on that hill. Having to come home, a place that is usually safe and warm, and see nothing. Their home used to hold plenty of objects and decorations, but now most of the rooms were empty, save for some furniture. The ex-sirens had to sell their belongings in order to get extra money. Knowing that everything was gone, and knowing that she had to actually pay and work for food and living made her sick. If it wasn't for the Rainbooms and that Sunset Shimmer she wouldn't be here, standing in her emptied apartment living room. Of course, if it wasn't for that same Sunset Shimmer, Adagio wouldn't be feeling as warm and her loneliness was less perfervid. The apartment was dark, and you would assume it to be abandoned if there wasn't faint giggling coming from an upstairs bedroom. Adagio grimaced at the sound. She removed her boots and made her way up the stairs. As she made her way down the dark hallway she stopped in front of a door with a slit of light at the bottom of it. On the outside, muffled voices and giggling could be heard. Night after night, Adagio heard her friends' laughter and late night talking. And she hated it. Of course, it wasn't their fault, she couldn't hate them for it. She felt that maybe she was too dramatic about it, but she couldn't erase her feelings. She stood at the door, and almost considered going in there with them. Sunset Shimmer had mentioned earlier that evening that she wouldn't be where she was with out her new friends. Maybe Adagio should try to become closer to her friends and strengthen the relationship between them. Her hand, now formed into a fist, lifted as she prepared to knock on the door. Just as her knuckles were about to impact the door, Aria shouted, "Jesus Christ, Sonata," and fell into a fit of laughter, followed by Sonata joining in. It sounded like they were having a really nice time. Adagio pulled her hand back and decided against interrupting them. She fell onto her bed face first. She laid there and inhaled through the blankets, listening to the barely audible voices and her own breathing. Eventually she rolled onto her back and stared into the darkness of her room. Her little talk with Sunset lifted her, but she was still far from standing. Why did you have to go? Her eyes closed and she inhaled through nose and exhaled through her mouth, letting out an audible sigh. As much as she hated to admit it, and she really did, Adagio wished that they could have talked longer. Her eyes stung. Being alone was her least favorite thing. But here she was, once again, laying in her big bed alone. The ex-siren grabbed a pillow and hugged it tight to her chest. Adagio awoke the next morning and leaned up to a sitting position. It wasn't bright outside, but the sun had already came out to make it's appearance, only to be hidden away by clouds for the day. The messy haired teen got out of bed and glanced at the digital clock hanging on her wall as she passed it. 8:47 The former siren gave an annoyed sigh and made her way down the hall. Sonata bumped into her as she left the bathroom. The blue siren was dressed and wide awake, which was odd. "Good morning, Dagi!" she greeted her messy haired leader, "why are you up so early? "Why are you up so early?" "Oh," Sonata gave her usual smile, "Ari and I are going to the zoo today, it's free all day." "Ah," Adagio said with disinterest. It wasn't like the two didn't invite Adagio, they did, but she turned it away. Like mentioned before, their company usually made her feel worse in some situations. They didn't consider themselves a couple, but they acted as one. Anyone would assume they were one. And Adagio was left to be the single. She just felt more lonely around them. "Yeah, then we're going out for tacos," she said as she tried to contain her excitement, "do you want us to bring you anything back?" "I'll be fine," Adagio said as she walked passed Sonata, "thanks for the offer." Her bubbly, blue friend continued with her routine and went into her room. Adagio made her way down the stairs and to the kitchen, only to be greeted by Aria sitting at the kitchen table. The purple teen was looking at the comic strip from the paper. Aria didn't look up from the paper, and she didn't pay any mind to her poofy haired friend. Adagio opened the cabinet above the counter. It was empty. She wasn't sure what she expected, the three didn't have jobs so why would they have food? "It's empty like always, dumbass," the girl sitting at the table said lacking emotion and not looking from her paper. Adagio closed the cabinet door and held in an irritated sigh before she turned to face her purple haired friend. "Oh really?" she asked sarcastically as she sat at the table. "Don't give me that bullshit, Adagio." The orange haired teen let her friend's words go. She wasn't in the mood for an argument, and she didn't care enough to reply back anyways. The two sat in silence and the only noise that could be heard was the crinkling of paper when Aria turned pages. Adagio watched Aria, and she studied her. She was wearing her usual clothes; she seemed to be all ready to go. And one thing was running through Adagio's mind: when are they leaving? It was a question that left her with mix feelings. It was hard to say how she felt really, because she herself didn't know. She hated being alone, but she hated when they stayed home. Part of her wanted them to leave as soon as possible, the rest of her hoped something would happen and they'd stay home. Either option would leave her feeling alone. Aria sighed and closed her eyes. She put her paper down and opened her eyes to look at Adagio, "what is it?" The said teen was taken back slightly. She hadn't expected Aria to say anything, and she hardly noticed that she was staring. A smirk crossed Adagio's face as an idea danced through her mind. She rested her chin in the palm of her hand and put her elbow on the table to hold her head up, "Love you, Ari." Aria's usual purple skin color turned to a shade of pink and immediately darkened into a deep red. Shock replaced her usual grumpy facial expression causing Adagio to giggle. No matter how she felt around them, she still loved making Aria flustered. It always made her feel better. The used to be purple girl slumped back into her chair then held her paper up to hide her face. This action made Adagio giggle again and only harder this time. "Sonata!" Aria shouted with tinted cheeks, "come on! Let's go!" Sonata shouted back from upstairs, letting her know that she was coming. Aria stood from her chair and pushed it back in as Sonata came into the kitchen. "You're all flushed," Sonata pointed out to Aria with curiosity. "I know, now let's go," Aria said as she walked passed her and out of the kitchen. Sonata looked over at Adagio, whose face held a proud smirk, "are you sure you don't want to come with us?" The ex-siren's smirk faded, "I'm sure." "All right then, see ya later, Dagi," the blue teen said with a wave as she followed Aria out of the apartment. The front door closed leaving silence through out the apartment. Raspberry eyes glanced around the kitchen in thought. What could she do with her day? She figured her idiots would be gone all day, and she didn't want to sit around with her thoughts all day. Sunset crossed her mind, and she wondered what her flamed haired acquaintance would be doing today. More than likely she would be hanging out with the Rainbooms. What was she doing now though? Was she sitting around alone, wondering how Adagio was and what she was doing? Doubtful. She turned her head to look out the window. So far, the sky was still painted dark and grey with clouds. Gloomy, dark days never helped with the former siren's depressed state, but staying home and inside was even less help. She stood from her chair and walked up to her room. Her room was still dimly lit. The former siren lied down in her bed and pulled her covers over her. Adagio figured she would get another hour or two of sleep and just try to speed the day up. A mass of orange hair covered the former siren's face when she woke a couple of hours later. She pushed her hair out of her face and moved from her bed to her closet. Her closet was empty aside from her few outfits. She had the outfit she wore to the Battle of the Bands, her everyday jumper with tights, and her sweat shirt and jeans, along with a few other items. Since the options weren't diverse, she didn't have a hard time choosing her jumper shorts and tights. Once she had gotten her clothes, she went to the bathroom to take a shower. She finished getting ready and headed out the door, locking it behind her. The former siren walked along the sidewalk and observed her surroundings. Not many people were out on this gloomy summer afternoon, making her walk quiet. Her mind wandered, but stayed on Sunset. She thought back to her, and what she said the night before, about escaping the noise. And here was no noise, only her own thoughts. It sounded dramatic, and it made little sense, but it still meant a lot to the former siren. Adagio wanted the Rainbooms to know how she felt and how Sunset felt, but she didn't want Sunset to feel that way. Not since she was the only one kind enough to reach out to the former siren. If she was with those Rainbow freaks, she was having fun and laughing. The thought of the Rainbooms made Adagio sick, but the thought of Sunset laughing and her smile brought her a small smile of her own. Her eyes moved to the ground near a patch of bushes as she caught sight of part of the hidden trail that lead to the over look. No one was out, so, there probably wouldn't be anyone at the bench either. It was a quiet and gloomy day, and the orange girl had nothing to do. She pushed aside the bushes and walked down the trail. Since she had nowhere to be and no one to see, she figured she would visit briefly and then try to find something else to do. There was more noise on the trail, with the sound of rustling leaves and bird songs. It was nice, a lot nicer than being home. She rounded the last stretch of the trail and came to a halt. Her stomach flipped when she saw the red and yellow streaked hair of Sunset Shimmer. She was all by herself, and her back was turned to Adagio, but she could tell that she was staring up into the grey sky. Adagio was more nervous than she would admit, but she knew for sure she was excited to see her flamed haired acquaintance once again. However, she wasn't sure that Sunset would be as glad to see her. It took some deciding before she composed herself enough to start walking towards the bench. Author's Note Okaaayy, here we go! Chapter 2! Woohoo! Haha, well, here you guys go. Sorry if it seemed too predictable Chapter 3 will be out soon, though, so no worries. Oh, and also, I'm not putting a lot of logic into this since the movies and show don't either. If something just doesn't seem to make sense, then whoops. And Adagio and the girls live on the edge of Canterlot, so they're closer to forests and mountains or whatever. Human TearsAdagio stepped closer to the red head sitting on the bench, who still didn't notice the ex-siren's presence. Her teal eyes and her attention were fixated on the grey sky. As Adagio rounded the bench, she saw wet streaks down Sunset's face. Something in Adagio urged to grab Sunset, wipe her tears away and hold her. She wanted to make her hurt go away even for just right now. But Before Adagio could say anything or react, Sunset noticed her and quickly wiped her face clean of tears. Her eyes remained puffy, though, and her nose was still pink, but her face was dry at least. "Oh, hey, Adagio. What are you up to?" The said girl stared at Sunset for a moment, "just out for a walk." Adagio sat down on the bench, some what closer to the girl than the last time they were here. She considered asking Sunset what was wrong and if she was all right. That was something friends did, right? Or humans in general? She wasn't sure if Sunset would even want to talk about it if she did ask. "What about you?" Adagio asked. "Mmm," Sunset thought aloud. Her gaze fell over the city. Adagio's followed, then returned to Sunset. "I didn't have much going on, I figured I'd come here and kill time." "Mm," Adagio said unconvinced with a nod. It didn't feel appropriate to press Sunset with more questions or for the truth. Adagio assumed that if Sunset wanted to tell her what was wrong, if she wanted to talk about it with her former enemy, she would. They didn't speak, but even in the silence she felt comfort. Adagio, recently, felt cold and empty, except when she was next to Sunset. That was the only time she felt all right. "Sometimes I wonder," Sunset said, with her eyes still on the city, "sometimes I come here, and I think about why I'm here. I had everything I could ever want. Probably even more, but I was alone. Then, I had nothing, and no one came to me to give me the world, the girls came to me-" she paused and wiped her eyes once more, "-but only because Princess Twilight Sparkle told them to." That settled that. It was relieving that Adagio didn't have to choose between seeming too nosy or just uncaring. It was startling, too, in a comforting way. The two weren't close, and they haven't talked much at all, but Sunset trusted her and shared her feelings with her. "They didn't want to be your friend?" "Twilight asked them to show me the magic of friendship. It was a favor she asked of them. They are here for me now." "But?" "But they still talk about what I did and who I was. I've let them know I'm bothered by it still, but they keep going." Adagio wasn't sure what to say. No one came to her with their feelings, not feelings like this. She was used to dealing with Sonata's dramatics, or Aria's moods, but not the truly serious kind of feelings. Something in the back of her mind was slowly making its way up front. A bit of anger was forming inside her. Birds sang their songs and the leaves rustled in the summer breeze. The sun was still hidden behind a layer of clouds and the city below continued to bustle. Sunset had her hair pulled back into a pony tail, and her bangs fell from either side of her face. Adagio opened her mouth to speak, but Sunset spoke before her. "I'm sorry, you probably don't want to hear all of this." "You aren't bothering me with it," the former siren half-lied. "I understand you, Adagio." Adagio crinkled her eyebrows in confusion. Her building anger fizzled away and her heart sped up. It was an odd thing to say. However random it was, it still caught her attention, and she wanted to know more. "What?" "Oh," Sunset's cheeks tinted, "I didn't mean to say that out loud." "You did though." Adagio tilted her head slightly. Sure, she had a good idea of what Sunset meant, but she still wanted Sunset to elaborate. She leaned forward as if she would be trying to hear her better and waited. "I know how it feels to keep everything bottled." Adagio's eyes narrowed slightly, then returned to normal. It was true, she did keep it all bottled. Aria and Sonata would make fun of her, so she couldn't go to them with anything. Sunset continued, "I love my friends, and I can talk to them with my problems. I can't talk to them about the ones that really bother me though." Adagio stayed quiet. "The only other person I can talk to about all of this, is Twilight, and she isn't replying to my letters," her voice was soft and wavered. There was a short paused that quickly ended when Sunset cleared her throat. "Anyways, I know that you have those girls, but I don't think you have them to go to since you come up here sometimes." It was pretty spot on. In fact, it was scary how accurate it was. Sunset must pay more attention to things than she lead on. "That's right," Adagio answered, still unsure of where the former she-demon was going with this. Sunset sighed, "what I'm trying to say is that I'm here for you, because I know how you feel and what you're going through. I'll be by your side." Sunset's words had a bigger impact on Adagio than either of them had thought. She was breaking and she wasn't ready for it. Tears streamed down her face with out warning and she quickly came to a sob. Her face fell to her hands and her shoulders shook. It wasn't long before she felt Sunset right beside her on her left and an arm that wrapped around her to rub her right arm. Sunset gave her a reassuring squeeze. "I'm right here," Sunset whispered. She rested her head on the sobbing girl's shoulders. "I don't want to fall apart," the ex-siren said between sobs. She really didn't. Not in front of Sunset. It was humiliating enough, but Adagio couldn't stop herself.. "It's not an option to cry sometimes," Sunset paused and started playing with a strand of Adagio's hair affectionately, "we're only human. It's natural." Adagio pulled from Sunset, and looked back at her with puffy eyes, "I am not human. At least I wouldn't be if it wasn't for you. I wouldn't be in this situation at all if it wasn't for you." Sunset, startled, stared back at the former siren in her sudden burst. It wasn't expected at all, and Sunset wasn't sure what to do. Tears still flowed down her face as she let her anger explode on her new friend, "If it wasn't forif it wasn't for you, I would have everything I wanted." "You'd feel even more alone." Ignoring Sunset's comment, she continued, "I wouldn't be in this god forsaken hole. I'd be the one in the 'better place'," she used her fingers to gesture quotation marks in the air. Adagio wiped her eyes and stared at Sunset for a moment. She was obviously startled, but she was holding her ground. Her eyes held concern and warmth, but her face was stern. "Do you have any idea what you took from me? From us?" Adagio yelled her question, already knowing the answer. She wasn't sure why she asked to begin with. Of course Sunset knew how much The Dazzlings had lost. All of her anger was coming out, and she was blaming it all on Sunset. All on Sunset Shimmer, even though her friends did most of every thing. Sunset stared back at her, with an unchanged expression. She sat and stared up at the now standing Adagio, and she waited for her to finish. "I want my magic. I want to be able to sing again. I want you to hate yourself for what you did." Adagio paused after she said that. She knew she didn't mean it, but it was out already. She didn't care that much anyways. "I want to hate you." Sunset's stern expression disappeared, and it changed to surprise. She crinkled her brows, trying to understand. "I want to hate you and be angry at you. I want to tell you how badly you hurt me, how much you took from me." Adagio started to tremble again and her voice lost it's rage. It wavered, even though she tried to control it. Tears streamed her face once more. "I want to hate you," she said softly. "Why don't you?" "I can't. I can't, and I don't know why." The former siren slumped back into the bench and stared out at the city with watery eyes. Her lower lip quivered, and she bit it in hopes to stop it. Her attention was drawn to Sunset when her hand was taken and held tightly. Sunset had positioned herself on the bench to be facing her body towards her. Big, teal eyes stared back at Adagio. They were soft, and welcoming. Sunset didn't say anything, she only held Adagio's hand in both of hers. "Adagio, you're stronger than you were before.I know you won't believe me, but you are. You're not alone, and I won't leave you. You actually have to believe me when I say that. You'll see that it gets easier with time, and it will, you just have to hold on." The orange haired girl stared back silently with wide eyes. Why was Sunset saying all of that? Why was she being so caring and patient? Adagio just put everything on Sunset, and yet she was still holding her hand. Tears built back up in her eyes but didn't fall. "You're scared aren't you?" Adagio nodded without noticing. Sunset exhaled audibly through her nose and gave a side smile in sympathy that said 'I am too'. They sat in silence, it was a warm silence, and stared into each other's eyes. I want you to hate yourself... "I-I.. I didn't mean it when I said I wanted you to hate yourself," Adagio said softly "I know you didn't," the way Sunset said it made it sound fake, but Adagio didn't pay it much mind. She looked down at their hands. It was nice to see, and even better to feel. Sunset's hands were soft. A small smile formed on Adagio's lips. There was still a small thing of guilt that rested in her stomach. Sunset was crying, and Adagio didn't help her. Instead she yelled at her. A frown took place. Surely Sunset wanted to be coddled too. And surely she wanted someone there to tell her everything was okay. Of course she did. She's just as alone as the former siren, she wants attention and comfort. Adagio was more than willing to give that to her. She looked back up, "what were you crying over?" Sunset looked back at her, with a small bit of surprise. She exhaled quickly through her nose again and looked down. She fiddled with their fingers and gave a small smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. It seemed like she was putting a lot of thought into her answer, and it seemed like she was on the verge of tears again, even if they never formed. "Sometimes, crying isn't an option." Author's Note Wow! Am I terrible at updating these or what? Haha, many apologies for that. Hopefully this was worth the wait, and if it wasn't, I tried. Anyway, I wanted this to be an emotional chapter for the two but it seems a bit early for it, doesn't it? Ah well, tell me what you think about it regardless! In other words, don't forget to comment. Until DuskAdagio sat at her kitchen table. Sonata and Aria were still in bed. They usually slept in if they didn't have to go to school, but still it was odd for them to sleep in so late. Adagio envied them, she was lucky if she could sleep at all. She rested her chin in her hand and stared in no particular direction. She assumed they stayed up all night, again, talking or playing games. They were awake when she came home last night. Just having fun. Earlier that day with Sunset crossed her mind briefly. She had almost forgotten about it, it was like a dream. A horrible, embarrassing dream. She was ashamed of herself. Just don't do it again, she thought to herself, simple. Adagio rubbed her eyes and then eventually her whole face. She remembered their good bye, simple and short. Adagio was the first to leave, and Sunset stayed though. Adagio assumed Sunset didn't want to deal with her own friends, so she didn't think twice about it. Humans are so frail. With a heavy sigh, she lazily rested her head in her hand again. She stared out the window. She watched as the low clouds quickly rolled in the distant sky. Each day feels more and more like a chore. Everything is so boring.And yet another sigh escaped her as she stood from her chair. She glanced around the kitchen. A sense of dread passed over her as she took in the emptiness and silence. "I need to get out of here," she stated softly to herself. And it was decided again. She was going to walk through Canterlot, because being at home was torture. Her goal this time was to stay out until she had to come home. She stopped near the stairs and stared up them before climbing them. She made her way to the girls' room and opened the door as quietly as she could before peeking into the dim room. Sonata and Aria were both in there. Asleep. They slept in the same bed, wrapped under a mess of blankets. Adagio rolled her eyes before closing the door back. She leaned against the door, as much as she envied them, she was a little glad that they weren't suffering like she was. Being out of the house was nice, but she still felt so detached. Walking around town could only help so much. Her mind was still trying to process, let alone grieve, the fact that she lost her magic. And as her mind wandered the past, she remembered Sunset. A wave of mixed emotions hit adagio. She sat down on the curb of the sidewalk, "life couldn't have been sweeter.." She closed her eyes, a took in a slow breath. She looked up to the sky, and sighed once more. She's doing the same thing she was doing at home. The point of leaving the house was to get away from that, she scolded herself. She made a fist and thumped her forehead with it, just as it smacked she noticed Trixie across the street. A smirk sneaked across Adagio's face. She wasn't happy to see Trixie, but it was nice to finally have some sort of distraction. Adagio crossed the street and caught up with the great and powerful one. "Trixie," Adagio said. Trixie jumped and spun around. "Oh, Adagio.." Trixie placed a hand on her hip and looked Adagio up and down causing Adagio to feel some what vulnerable, yet comfortable all at once. She held her composure as Trixie continued, "..it's you." "It's me," Adagio said with the same smirk. "What do you want, Dazzle?" Adagio stepped closer to Trixie, noting the way she tensed and the satisfaction she got from it. She reached her arm around Trixie, "I'm a changed," Adagio stopped for a moment, unsure what to refer to herself as, "..person." "So?" "So," she moved Trixie to face her, leaving her hands on her shoulders, "let's be friends." Trixie looked at adagio, she was obviously suspicious, "what is this?" "What is what?" "Please, Dazzle, The Great and Powerful Trixie can smell a game a mile away." Adagio rolled her eyes, of course. "What are you talking about?." Trixie laughed, "you might not be evil with magic anymore, but you certainly aren't a better person with out it." It was an honest and fair thing to say. It wasn't like she was trying to be a better person. Of course she didn't know how to be, but still it was fair how ever harsh it may have been "Well, no, I wasn't saying I was." Adagio was finding it harder and harder to ignore her feelings of consternation, but she continued to show nothing but confidence. Her smirk fell, however. "I-" "Look, Dazzle," Trixie interrupted pointing her index finger at Adagio, "I'm not interested in whatever you're trying to sell." Adagio searched Trixie's face as she stepped back. She glared at the amateur magician. They continued to glare at each other for a moment, before Trixie straightened out her shirt and walked away. Adagio pursed her lips together and brought her hand up to her collar bone. She felt for her gem, but to her dismay, it wasn't there. With a huff of defeat, she walked in the opposite direction of Trixie. It was just another sunset over the city. The sky glowed golden, and the clouds were an assortment of dark and light orange. She took a deep breath. The end of the day always felt like a victory. It was just the end of another day. Just getting through another day, just like yesterday, and tomorrow will be no different. The end of the day always felt like a victory, and the sunset her prize. Unfortunately, she couldn't help but think of Sunset while watching the sun set. How could she not, though? It was Sunset's name. The sunset was in her hair and her voice. It was in her eyes and her touch. Adagio shivered thinking of Sunset. It was overwhelming almost. Adagio wanted to hate Sunset so badly, everything inside of her screamed it. Even if she did hate Sunset, how could she have done that in front of her? How could she have acted that way? How could she have been so weak? The sky had already lost its glow and started to turn a darker blue. The base of the sky was still an assortment of yellows and oranges, and the clouds were losing their pink tints. Adagio tried to lose herself into the sky. She wanted a moment that she wasn't stuck in her thoughts as she was tired of thinking of, of dwelling on, the past. She couldn't help it though. There were too many reasons why she couldn't let it go. Adagio couldn't understand why Sonata and Aria didn't feel the same way. Why weren't they mad? The stars were dotting the sky now, and the sky was mostly dark blue. The sun was out of view, but its light still lingered. It left the bottom of the sky a deep orange, almost red. It was hard to believe how fast the sky has changed in such a short amount of time. Or maybe more time had passed. It was hard to say. Adagio leaned back and stretched. She rested her arms on the back of the bench and looked up to the darker part of the sky. She tried not to think about the bands, or sunset. She tried not to think about the kids at school, or how much she dreaded going home. With out all of the pain to dwell over, what was left to think about? Sunset constantly tried to make her way into Adagio's thoughts, however Adagio wouldn't allow it. She refused it, afraid that she'd have to deal with even more pain to dwell on. Adagio looked to the sunset, well, back to the area the sun had set in. The light of the day was completely gone now, and the sky was completely dark. She didn't look forward to going home, or laying in her bed. She didn't look forward to another sleepless night, but there wasn't anything left to do. With that, Adagio stood and made her way back to the trail leading down to the city. Author's Note Well, I stopped writing for so long that I kind of lost track of the story. Luckily I had a few notes left over from the last time I worked on this chapter. Anyway, if it seems a little different that's why. (plus I've really grown as a person too.) Sorry about taking so long, I had to get back into the swing of things This is a rather short chapter compared to the others, only because I found it kind of difficult following Adagio and not having any way to incorporate other characters without it seeming too forced. Enjoy! Feel free to leave any criticism and let me know what you think.
Human Emotions"I can't," a young, seemingly harmless girl spoke quietly to herself, "do this on my own." This young girl, appearing to be around 16 or 17, sat on a bench on top of a tall hill overlooking the city she was staying in. It was a place she discovered years ago with her two companions while exploring. At the time, she didn't care about the view, or how isolated it was, all she was worried about was revenge and power. Now, on the other hand, it's a place where she came when she felt alone and sad-feelings she had never had before-or when she just wanted to think or be alone. She still had her two idiots of course, but they had each other above all. The two shared a bond, and cared deeply for each other. They cared for their used-to-be leader as well, but they cared more about each other it seemed. It was her own fault. Back when the three still had their magic and power she pushed them around and pushed them closer. She never cared to coddle them or be a comforting figure to them. She was their leader, and that was that. Now, she regretted it. She sat alone on a cliff watching over the city, only wishing she could have a bond with themor anyoneas warm and strong as the one they had already. Now, she had no one. At least that's how it felt. Sure, she had those two to keep her company, even if she felt lonely in theirs, they were there. And she could say they understood the way she felt. They had all gone through the same thing, with the battle of the bands and all. Each of them lost their power, their magic, their whole identity. She could say they understood, but she wasn't sure they truly did. "Maybe I have them," she spoke again to no one in particular, "but where are they now?" Her question was asked in short and her tone had morphed into bitterness. The question remained open for a period of time as she thought about them and the answer. They were home, where she left them, more than likely sleeping in each other's arms, comforting each other. Adagio let out a sigh as she looked up into the summer night sky. She reflected on her past, and thought about how it was effecting her now. All of those terrible comments, and every time she didn't care how they felt.. Each one of those moments pushed her into this world without a single soul she could run to. She had only pushed Aria and Sonata into each other's arms with her coldness. They had always had that special bond because of Adagio. She didn't have a special bond with them, aside from the big Battle. As she looked over the city, a realization hit her. In this giant city, her reputation had been destroyed, no one in Canterlot would talk to her or her friends. And without her powers, she was unable to leave to another city, which meant she was stuck here. At least in another city she would have a chance to find someone, anyone, that would give her the time of day or attention and comfort. With one last glance over the city, Adagio stood from the bench. It must have been late by now, but it was hard to say. She didn't have anything on her that would tell her the time. It didn't matter, though. Whatever time it was was useless to her considering she had no curfew and didn't attend school. The three had tried returning to Canterlot High after the events that took placeCelestia told them they were allowed if they wishedbut, to put it simply, it just didn't work out very well and they stopped after the first day. Sonata, on the other hand, went a full week before she gave up. Adagio found the trail that lead her up this small mountain and began her journey down it. It was a short trip down, the look out wasn't far from where she was staying and she was grateful for that. She found herself half way down the trail when she heard foot steps. This threw her off guard since she never saw anyone else at the look out. For some reason, it never had visitors. At least, not when Adagio visited it. Part of her didn't mind. It was nice being alone. A different part of her wished another lonely soul came to the look out. She could talk to them, and everything would go downhill from there. And tonight could be the night. Curious, she continued walking and rounded the curve of the trail. Then, she and the person froze as their eyes met. Adagio's surprise immediately changed to anger and she narrowed her eyes. Her insides boiled with hatred as she stared into the eyes of the girl that ripped everything away from her. Sunset Shimmer Sunset stared back at Adagio. Her surprise stayed longer than Adagio's, and she appeared much more nervous, but she held herself together and composed. "Uh," the flamed hair girl started. "Uh?" Adagio asked shortly. "What are you doing out here?" she asked slowly as if she wasn't sure what she was asking. The ex-siren scoffed, "oh please, like you really want to know." "Well, I do." Sunset's answer took Adagio off guard. She expected anything besides a friendly response from her. Trying to compose herself, she quickly shot out, "okay, well what are you doing out here?" "Oh, um," Sunset started. Her eyes made a curved motion from the sky, to the trees, then to the ground trying to find a way to answer. Adagio remained quiet and waited for her. Honestly, she wanted to know why Sunset would be all the way out here all alone. "Wait, you definitely don't care, so," the fiery haired girl's voice trailed off as she turned her head and gave a sideways look. She was right. Or would have been. Anytime before the Battle, Adagio wouldn't have cared why Sunny was up here so late. However, ever since then, she's had new feelings, emotions, and thoughts, and tonight, she did care. She hated Sunset and her friends, but Adagio knew that if anyone in this god forsaken town would spare her a second glance it would be Sunset, and she was going to work with it. "Well, if we're done here, then I'm just going to," Sunset said as she pointed past the former leader of The Dazzlings and stepped forward, only to be cut off by her, standing just a hair from being uncomfortably close. "No," she said with a smirk and that sultry voice of her's, "I do care, Sunset." Sunset took a step back and crinkled her brow in confusion at the ex-siren. She studied Adagio and her expression. It was hard to read, and it was even harder to tell if she was sincere or not. She continued on anyways. "I like to get away from the noise." "The noise?" she cocked a brow. "Yes, the noise. The noise of the city, of my friends, of my own thoughts." Adagio scoffed again. The "of my own thoughts" part sounded too dramatic. Who comes to a place alone to get rid of their own thoughts? Well, actually that was the exact same thing she was doing. Something inside the former leader clicked: Sunset knows what it feels like. She understands! Sunset groaned, "if you're just going to scoff at me, then why did you say you cared?" She was pulled from her thoughts and looked back up to Sunset. The words were heard but they took a few seconds to register that she was asked a question. "It's," the sultry tone in her voice was gone now and her expression was more serious, "I can sort of relate." "Oh," Sunset scratched the back of her head, "can I ask what you're doing then?" The former leader looked back at the bit of the bench she could still see then turned back to Sunset, "I was doing the same thing." There was a silence between them. Sunset stared at Adagio, possibly taking in her words, trying to wrap her mind around the idea that former siren, big, bad Adagio, needed time away from herself. Adagio stared back, she stared into Sunset's eyes. They were warm, caring, and, most importantly, understanding. For the first time since the big event, Adagio felt something other than hatred, anger, sadness, and loneliness. What was it? She couldn't quite say. All she knew was that one of the people that ripped everything away from her, was here, showing her kindess. Not much kindness, but it was better than none at all. "Are you going home?" Sunset finally broke the silence. "I was about to." "Do you need to be home?" Adagio gave a short, but pained laugh, "no, I don't." "Would you.. Like to go up there with me?" Sunset took the ex-siren off guard once more. She stared back at her flame haired enemy, or used to be enemy? She stared back at her, into her eyes again, studied her face, searched for any sign of a lie. Nothing. As far as Adagio could see, everything in Sunset was sincere. But, regardless, she gave the question and answer serious though. Sunset and her friends stole everything from her, she wanted to hate her. She wanted to go with her too, though. This is exactly what Adagio had been waiting for, and she wasn't going to let it slip by because of who it was. "I can," she finally answered, making sure she sounded indifferent. "Great!" Sunny responded with a smile, then gestured towards the bench, "let's go then," she said as she walked passed Adagio. They sat on the bench, a fair distance away from each other. They did the same thing Adagio did only moments ago. Sat in silence, watching over the city, only now, she wasn't alone. And, though she would never admit it, she loved every second of it. Her eyes moved to the sky and watched the stars twinkle, her mind wasn't lost in her old, sad thoughts. Now, she wondered what Sunset was thinking. What was on her mind? Was she wondering the same thing? And would they talk? or only sit in silence? "How are things?" the former she-demon finally spoke while giving her used-to-be enemy a side long glance. Adagio looked to Sunset, then out to the city before giving her an answer. "They've been better," she said trying her hardest to keep the bitterness out of her voice. "Yeah, I've been there. It doesn't last forever." The Dazzling looked back at Sunset, but remained silent, waiting for her to continue. "That night, Fall Formal I mean, everything changed. I changed. I had everything, power, social status, two underclassmen that did what ever I said. I started drama, split everyone apart, and relished in the hatred everyone had. Princess Twilight came, and tore down every thing I built up," Sunset paused, "They blasted me with a rainbow, too, and that's when everything came crashing down on me. Everything hit me at once. Shame, loneliness, guilt, sadness, anger-you name it." Adagio remained quiet, she took in everything Sunset was telling her and related to. It was spot on, really. Their eyes met, and the ex-leader noticed tears had formed in Sunset's eyes. She almost asked why she was crying, but stopped herself, knowing obvious answers. It was worth a bet that she didn't have anyone to talk to about all of this either. At that moment, Adagio felt something for Sunset. She didn't know what, but she knew it wasn't hatred. It doesn't last forever. Sunset had said that just moments ago. It was a weird thought, knowing Sunset went through the same thing. It almost made Adagio hate the Rainbooms more for putting her through it too. Almost. She said it didn't last forever, and she was obviously right. Here was Sunset Shimmer, trying to help someone going through the same thing. She was alive, and well. Whatever she went through, she made it out of it fine. And she's in a much better place now. Mainly because of the Rainbooms. They gave her friendship and helped her get through it. From what Adagio saw, they sucked at helping Sunset with anything other than friendship. Even with that, they were still sort of bad at it. It was funny. Adagio had been waiting for this, not someone to relate to, but to meet with one of those Rainbow freaks one on one. She just wanted to let them know how much they took from them. Their magic, the only connection they had left to their old home. If she couldn't use her magic against them, maybe she could at least make them sick with guilt. It was petty and pathetic, but the siren turned human would take what she could. But now, here with Sunset, she had both that she had been waiting for. Only, she didn't want to make Sunset sick with guilt, or tell her how much they ruined the Dazzlings' lives. This understanding and caring girl sitting beside Adagio already was sick with guilt and knew already how it felt to have her life destroyed. Back in the hallway, before the big showcase, The Dazzlings had circled Shimmer, and they had made her feel terrible. That was the goal. They succeeded, of course. "Uh, hey," the fluffy haired girl finally spoke, drawing in Sunset's attention, "I'm sorry. When the girls and I circled you like sharks in the dim-lit hallway, I mean." Teal eyes widened slightly. Right then, as Sunset looked into the siren's eyes, Adagio knew no one had apologized to her, not sincerely anyways. How many times had she apologized to someone, or everyone? How many times was she accepted or rejected? Besides her friends, had anyone accepted her apologies? When Adagio went to Canterlot High, the students treated Sunset about as bad as they treat the ex-sirens now. "Oh, um. Thanks, Adagio," said Sunset, "that means a lot." "It's all right?" Adagio asked, "Apology accepted?" Sunset let out a soft laugh, "yeah, apology accepted." Another silence found its way between the two again. This time, Adagio sat and studied Sunset's profile and her features. The moon wasn't very bright, but it was bright enough to illuminate the night so that they could see each other. She wondered how someone so caring and kind could go and dominate a school. Well, scratch that, she knew. When a person wants something, there's the option to get it, and then there's the option to make sure you get it. "So, why di-" Adagio started but was cut off by Sunset's phone ringing. "I'm sorry," she said as she pulled her phone out of her pocket, "can I..?" Adagio gestured with her hand to let her know that she could answer it. The flaming haired girl stood from the bench and walked a few feet away from it. The former siren tried to listen, but she was unable to make any words out. Instead, she looked back out over the city, like she did before. Before she could get lost in her thoughts, Sunset walked back over to the bench, but she continued to stand rather than sit. "That was Rainbow Dash, she says that there's some sort of emergency, and I need to rush over to Pinkie Pie's," Sunset explained bluntly. Adagio turned to look at her, disappointment settling into her stomach and sadness returning to her chest, but it didn't show on her face. "So, you're going?" "Yeah," she rubbed the back of her neck, "maybe I'll see you around sometime," she gave an apologetic smile. Adagio stood, "I'll need to be getting home to my idiots soon anyways." "All right, see you then!" Sunset said with a small wave before she ran off down the trail. "See ya," the former siren said softly as she sat back on the bench. She had no where to be and no one to see. That was where she and Sunset differed. Sunset had friends, and she had places to go. Adagio gave a soft sigh and looked up at the sky. Author's Note Well, for some reason, this came to mind while I was writing a chapter for Where'd You Go?. I decided to just go ahead and write chapter one for this story, see how that goes. Add more to my plate, you know, fun stuff. I need an editor or a pre-reader, if anyone is interested, message me c: Don't forget to comment! Good, bad, helpful, rude, I wanna hear 'em all!
Watching the CloudsAdagio walked into her living room through the front door. She looked around at her tiny living room, observing the little possessions that were there. Being home was more depressing than being alone on that hill. Having to come home, a place that is usually safe and warm, and see nothing. Their home used to hold plenty of objects and decorations, but now most of the rooms were empty, save for some furniture. The ex-sirens had to sell their belongings in order to get extra money. Knowing that everything was gone, and knowing that she had to actually pay and work for food and living made her sick. If it wasn't for the Rainbooms and that Sunset Shimmer she wouldn't be here, standing in her emptied apartment living room. Of course, if it wasn't for that same Sunset Shimmer, Adagio wouldn't be feeling as warm and her loneliness was less perfervid. The apartment was dark, and you would assume it to be abandoned if there wasn't faint giggling coming from an upstairs bedroom. Adagio grimaced at the sound. She removed her boots and made her way up the stairs. As she made her way down the dark hallway she stopped in front of a door with a slit of light at the bottom of it. On the outside, muffled voices and giggling could be heard. Night after night, Adagio heard her friends' laughter and late night talking. And she hated it. Of course, it wasn't their fault, she couldn't hate them for it. She felt that maybe she was too dramatic about it, but she couldn't erase her feelings. She stood at the door, and almost considered going in there with them. Sunset Shimmer had mentioned earlier that evening that she wouldn't be where she was with out her new friends. Maybe Adagio should try to become closer to her friends and strengthen the relationship between them. Her hand, now formed into a fist, lifted as she prepared to knock on the door. Just as her knuckles were about to impact the door, Aria shouted, "Jesus Christ, Sonata," and fell into a fit of laughter, followed by Sonata joining in. It sounded like they were having a really nice time. Adagio pulled her hand back and decided against interrupting them. She fell onto her bed face first. She laid there and inhaled through the blankets, listening to the barely audible voices and her own breathing. Eventually she rolled onto her back and stared into the darkness of her room. Her little talk with Sunset lifted her, but she was still far from standing. Why did you have to go? Her eyes closed and she inhaled through nose and exhaled through her mouth, letting out an audible sigh. As much as she hated to admit it, and she really did, Adagio wished that they could have talked longer. Her eyes stung. Being alone was her least favorite thing. But here she was, once again, laying in her big bed alone. The ex-siren grabbed a pillow and hugged it tight to her chest. Adagio awoke the next morning and leaned up to a sitting position. It wasn't bright outside, but the sun had already came out to make it's appearance, only to be hidden away by clouds for the day. The messy haired teen got out of bed and glanced at the digital clock hanging on her wall as she passed it. 8:47 The former siren gave an annoyed sigh and made her way down the hall. Sonata bumped into her as she left the bathroom. The blue siren was dressed and wide awake, which was odd. "Good morning, Dagi!" she greeted her messy haired leader, "why are you up so early? "Why are you up so early?" "Oh," Sonata gave her usual smile, "Ari and I are going to the zoo today, it's free all day." "Ah," Adagio said with disinterest. It wasn't like the two didn't invite Adagio, they did, but she turned it away. Like mentioned before, their company usually made her feel worse in some situations. They didn't consider themselves a couple, but they acted as one. Anyone would assume they were one. And Adagio was left to be the single. She just felt more lonely around them. "Yeah, then we're going out for tacos," she said as she tried to contain her excitement, "do you want us to bring you anything back?" "I'll be fine," Adagio said as she walked passed Sonata, "thanks for the offer." Her bubbly, blue friend continued with her routine and went into her room. Adagio made her way down the stairs and to the kitchen, only to be greeted by Aria sitting at the kitchen table. The purple teen was looking at the comic strip from the paper. Aria didn't look up from the paper, and she didn't pay any mind to her poofy haired friend. Adagio opened the cabinet above the counter. It was empty. She wasn't sure what she expected, the three didn't have jobs so why would they have food? "It's empty like always, dumbass," the girl sitting at the table said lacking emotion and not looking from her paper. Adagio closed the cabinet door and held in an irritated sigh before she turned to face her purple haired friend. "Oh really?" she asked sarcastically as she sat at the table. "Don't give me that bullshit, Adagio." The orange haired teen let her friend's words go. She wasn't in the mood for an argument, and she didn't care enough to reply back anyways. The two sat in silence and the only noise that could be heard was the crinkling of paper when Aria turned pages. Adagio watched Aria, and she studied her. She was wearing her usual clothes; she seemed to be all ready to go. And one thing was running through Adagio's mind: when are they leaving? It was a question that left her with mix feelings. It was hard to say how she felt really, because she herself didn't know. She hated being alone, but she hated when they stayed home. Part of her wanted them to leave as soon as possible, the rest of her hoped something would happen and they'd stay home. Either option would leave her feeling alone. Aria sighed and closed her eyes. She put her paper down and opened her eyes to look at Adagio, "what is it?" The said teen was taken back slightly. She hadn't expected Aria to say anything, and she hardly noticed that she was staring. A smirk crossed Adagio's face as an idea danced through her mind. She rested her chin in the palm of her hand and put her elbow on the table to hold her head up, "Love you, Ari." Aria's usual purple skin color turned to a shade of pink and immediately darkened into a deep red. Shock replaced her usual grumpy facial expression causing Adagio to giggle. No matter how she felt around them, she still loved making Aria flustered. It always made her feel better. The used to be purple girl slumped back into her chair then held her paper up to hide her face. This action made Adagio giggle again and only harder this time. "Sonata!" Aria shouted with tinted cheeks, "come on! Let's go!" Sonata shouted back from upstairs, letting her know that she was coming. Aria stood from her chair and pushed it back in as Sonata came into the kitchen. "You're all flushed," Sonata pointed out to Aria with curiosity. "I know, now let's go," Aria said as she walked passed her and out of the kitchen. Sonata looked over at Adagio, whose face held a proud smirk, "are you sure you don't want to come with us?" The ex-siren's smirk faded, "I'm sure." "All right then, see ya later, Dagi," the blue teen said with a wave as she followed Aria out of the apartment. The front door closed leaving silence through out the apartment. Raspberry eyes glanced around the kitchen in thought. What could she do with her day? She figured her idiots would be gone all day, and she didn't want to sit around with her thoughts all day. Sunset crossed her mind, and she wondered what her flamed haired acquaintance would be doing today. More than likely she would be hanging out with the Rainbooms. What was she doing now though? Was she sitting around alone, wondering how Adagio was and what she was doing? Doubtful. She turned her head to look out the window. So far, the sky was still painted dark and grey with clouds. Gloomy, dark days never helped with the former siren's depressed state, but staying home and inside was even less help. She stood from her chair and walked up to her room. Her room was still dimly lit. The former siren lied down in her bed and pulled her covers over her. Adagio figured she would get another hour or two of sleep and just try to speed the day up. A mass of orange hair covered the former siren's face when she woke a couple of hours later. She pushed her hair out of her face and moved from her bed to her closet. Her closet was empty aside from her few outfits. She had the outfit she wore to the Battle of the Bands, her everyday jumper with tights, and her sweat shirt and jeans, along with a few other items. Since the options weren't diverse, she didn't have a hard time choosing her jumper shorts and tights. Once she had gotten her clothes, she went to the bathroom to take a shower. She finished getting ready and headed out the door, locking it behind her. The former siren walked along the sidewalk and observed her surroundings. Not many people were out on this gloomy summer afternoon, making her walk quiet. Her mind wandered, but stayed on Sunset. She thought back to her, and what she said the night before, about escaping the noise. And here was no noise, only her own thoughts. It sounded dramatic, and it made little sense, but it still meant a lot to the former siren. Adagio wanted the Rainbooms to know how she felt and how Sunset felt, but she didn't want Sunset to feel that way. Not since she was the only one kind enough to reach out to the former siren. If she was with those Rainbow freaks, she was having fun and laughing. The thought of the Rainbooms made Adagio sick, but the thought of Sunset laughing and her smile brought her a small smile of her own. Her eyes moved to the ground near a patch of bushes as she caught sight of part of the hidden trail that lead to the over look. No one was out, so, there probably wouldn't be anyone at the bench either. It was a quiet and gloomy day, and the orange girl had nothing to do. She pushed aside the bushes and walked down the trail. Since she had nowhere to be and no one to see, she figured she would visit briefly and then try to find something else to do. There was more noise on the trail, with the sound of rustling leaves and bird songs. It was nice, a lot nicer than being home. She rounded the last stretch of the trail and came to a halt. Her stomach flipped when she saw the red and yellow streaked hair of Sunset Shimmer. She was all by herself, and her back was turned to Adagio, but she could tell that she was staring up into the grey sky. Adagio was more nervous than she would admit, but she knew for sure she was excited to see her flamed haired acquaintance once again. However, she wasn't sure that Sunset would be as glad to see her. It took some deciding before she composed herself enough to start walking towards the bench. Author's Note Okaaayy, here we go! Chapter 2! Woohoo! Haha, well, here you guys go. Sorry if it seemed too predictable Chapter 3 will be out soon, though, so no worries. Oh, and also, I'm not putting a lot of logic into this since the movies and show don't either. If something just doesn't seem to make sense, then whoops. And Adagio and the girls live on the edge of Canterlot, so they're closer to forests and mountains or whatever.
Human TearsAdagio stepped closer to the red head sitting on the bench, who still didn't notice the ex-siren's presence. Her teal eyes and her attention were fixated on the grey sky. As Adagio rounded the bench, she saw wet streaks down Sunset's face. Something in Adagio urged to grab Sunset, wipe her tears away and hold her. She wanted to make her hurt go away even for just right now. But Before Adagio could say anything or react, Sunset noticed her and quickly wiped her face clean of tears. Her eyes remained puffy, though, and her nose was still pink, but her face was dry at least. "Oh, hey, Adagio. What are you up to?" The said girl stared at Sunset for a moment, "just out for a walk." Adagio sat down on the bench, some what closer to the girl than the last time they were here. She considered asking Sunset what was wrong and if she was all right. That was something friends did, right? Or humans in general? She wasn't sure if Sunset would even want to talk about it if she did ask. "What about you?" Adagio asked. "Mmm," Sunset thought aloud. Her gaze fell over the city. Adagio's followed, then returned to Sunset. "I didn't have much going on, I figured I'd come here and kill time." "Mm," Adagio said unconvinced with a nod. It didn't feel appropriate to press Sunset with more questions or for the truth. Adagio assumed that if Sunset wanted to tell her what was wrong, if she wanted to talk about it with her former enemy, she would. They didn't speak, but even in the silence she felt comfort. Adagio, recently, felt cold and empty, except when she was next to Sunset. That was the only time she felt all right. "Sometimes I wonder," Sunset said, with her eyes still on the city, "sometimes I come here, and I think about why I'm here. I had everything I could ever want. Probably even more, but I was alone. Then, I had nothing, and no one came to me to give me the world, the girls came to me-" she paused and wiped her eyes once more, "-but only because Princess Twilight Sparkle told them to." That settled that. It was relieving that Adagio didn't have to choose between seeming too nosy or just uncaring. It was startling, too, in a comforting way. The two weren't close, and they haven't talked much at all, but Sunset trusted her and shared her feelings with her. "They didn't want to be your friend?" "Twilight asked them to show me the magic of friendship. It was a favor she asked of them. They are here for me now." "But?" "But they still talk about what I did and who I was. I've let them know I'm bothered by it still, but they keep going." Adagio wasn't sure what to say. No one came to her with their feelings, not feelings like this. She was used to dealing with Sonata's dramatics, or Aria's moods, but not the truly serious kind of feelings. Something in the back of her mind was slowly making its way up front. A bit of anger was forming inside her. Birds sang their songs and the leaves rustled in the summer breeze. The sun was still hidden behind a layer of clouds and the city below continued to bustle. Sunset had her hair pulled back into a pony tail, and her bangs fell from either side of her face. Adagio opened her mouth to speak, but Sunset spoke before her. "I'm sorry, you probably don't want to hear all of this." "You aren't bothering me with it," the former siren half-lied. "I understand you, Adagio." Adagio crinkled her eyebrows in confusion. Her building anger fizzled away and her heart sped up. It was an odd thing to say. However random it was, it still caught her attention, and she wanted to know more. "What?" "Oh," Sunset's cheeks tinted, "I didn't mean to say that out loud." "You did though." Adagio tilted her head slightly. Sure, she had a good idea of what Sunset meant, but she still wanted Sunset to elaborate. She leaned forward as if she would be trying to hear her better and waited. "I know how it feels to keep everything bottled." Adagio's eyes narrowed slightly, then returned to normal. It was true, she did keep it all bottled. Aria and Sonata would make fun of her, so she couldn't go to them with anything. Sunset continued, "I love my friends, and I can talk to them with my problems. I can't talk to them about the ones that really bother me though." Adagio stayed quiet. "The only other person I can talk to about all of this, is Twilight, and she isn't replying to my letters," her voice was soft and wavered. There was a short paused that quickly ended when Sunset cleared her throat. "Anyways, I know that you have those girls, but I don't think you have them to go to since you come up here sometimes." It was pretty spot on. In fact, it was scary how accurate it was. Sunset must pay more attention to things than she lead on. "That's right," Adagio answered, still unsure of where the former she-demon was going with this. Sunset sighed, "what I'm trying to say is that I'm here for you, because I know how you feel and what you're going through. I'll be by your side." Sunset's words had a bigger impact on Adagio than either of them had thought. She was breaking and she wasn't ready for it. Tears streamed down her face with out warning and she quickly came to a sob. Her face fell to her hands and her shoulders shook. It wasn't long before she felt Sunset right beside her on her left and an arm that wrapped around her to rub her right arm. Sunset gave her a reassuring squeeze. "I'm right here," Sunset whispered. She rested her head on the sobbing girl's shoulders. "I don't want to fall apart," the ex-siren said between sobs. She really didn't. Not in front of Sunset. It was humiliating enough, but Adagio couldn't stop herself.. "It's not an option to cry sometimes," Sunset paused and started playing with a strand of Adagio's hair affectionately, "we're only human. It's natural." Adagio pulled from Sunset, and looked back at her with puffy eyes, "I am not human. At least I wouldn't be if it wasn't for you. I wouldn't be in this situation at all if it wasn't for you." Sunset, startled, stared back at the former siren in her sudden burst. It wasn't expected at all, and Sunset wasn't sure what to do. Tears still flowed down her face as she let her anger explode on her new friend, "If it wasn't forif it wasn't for you, I would have everything I wanted." "You'd feel even more alone." Ignoring Sunset's comment, she continued, "I wouldn't be in this god forsaken hole. I'd be the one in the 'better place'," she used her fingers to gesture quotation marks in the air. Adagio wiped her eyes and stared at Sunset for a moment. She was obviously startled, but she was holding her ground. Her eyes held concern and warmth, but her face was stern. "Do you have any idea what you took from me? From us?" Adagio yelled her question, already knowing the answer. She wasn't sure why she asked to begin with. Of course Sunset knew how much The Dazzlings had lost. All of her anger was coming out, and she was blaming it all on Sunset. All on Sunset Shimmer, even though her friends did most of every thing. Sunset stared back at her, with an unchanged expression. She sat and stared up at the now standing Adagio, and she waited for her to finish. "I want my magic. I want to be able to sing again. I want you to hate yourself for what you did." Adagio paused after she said that. She knew she didn't mean it, but it was out already. She didn't care that much anyways. "I want to hate you." Sunset's stern expression disappeared, and it changed to surprise. She crinkled her brows, trying to understand. "I want to hate you and be angry at you. I want to tell you how badly you hurt me, how much you took from me." Adagio started to tremble again and her voice lost it's rage. It wavered, even though she tried to control it. Tears streamed her face once more. "I want to hate you," she said softly. "Why don't you?" "I can't. I can't, and I don't know why." The former siren slumped back into the bench and stared out at the city with watery eyes. Her lower lip quivered, and she bit it in hopes to stop it. Her attention was drawn to Sunset when her hand was taken and held tightly. Sunset had positioned herself on the bench to be facing her body towards her. Big, teal eyes stared back at Adagio. They were soft, and welcoming. Sunset didn't say anything, she only held Adagio's hand in both of hers. "Adagio, you're stronger than you were before.I know you won't believe me, but you are. You're not alone, and I won't leave you. You actually have to believe me when I say that. You'll see that it gets easier with time, and it will, you just have to hold on." The orange haired girl stared back silently with wide eyes. Why was Sunset saying all of that? Why was she being so caring and patient? Adagio just put everything on Sunset, and yet she was still holding her hand. Tears built back up in her eyes but didn't fall. "You're scared aren't you?" Adagio nodded without noticing. Sunset exhaled audibly through her nose and gave a side smile in sympathy that said 'I am too'. They sat in silence, it was a warm silence, and stared into each other's eyes. I want you to hate yourself... "I-I.. I didn't mean it when I said I wanted you to hate yourself," Adagio said softly "I know you didn't," the way Sunset said it made it sound fake, but Adagio didn't pay it much mind. She looked down at their hands. It was nice to see, and even better to feel. Sunset's hands were soft. A small smile formed on Adagio's lips. There was still a small thing of guilt that rested in her stomach. Sunset was crying, and Adagio didn't help her. Instead she yelled at her. A frown took place. Surely Sunset wanted to be coddled too. And surely she wanted someone there to tell her everything was okay. Of course she did. She's just as alone as the former siren, she wants attention and comfort. Adagio was more than willing to give that to her. She looked back up, "what were you crying over?" Sunset looked back at her, with a small bit of surprise. She exhaled quickly through her nose again and looked down. She fiddled with their fingers and gave a small smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. It seemed like she was putting a lot of thought into her answer, and it seemed like she was on the verge of tears again, even if they never formed. "Sometimes, crying isn't an option." Author's Note Wow! Am I terrible at updating these or what? Haha, many apologies for that. Hopefully this was worth the wait, and if it wasn't, I tried. Anyway, I wanted this to be an emotional chapter for the two but it seems a bit early for it, doesn't it? Ah well, tell me what you think about it regardless! In other words, don't forget to comment.
Until DuskAdagio sat at her kitchen table. Sonata and Aria were still in bed. They usually slept in if they didn't have to go to school, but still it was odd for them to sleep in so late. Adagio envied them, she was lucky if she could sleep at all. She rested her chin in her hand and stared in no particular direction. She assumed they stayed up all night, again, talking or playing games. They were awake when she came home last night. Just having fun. Earlier that day with Sunset crossed her mind briefly. She had almost forgotten about it, it was like a dream. A horrible, embarrassing dream. She was ashamed of herself. Just don't do it again, she thought to herself, simple. Adagio rubbed her eyes and then eventually her whole face. She remembered their good bye, simple and short. Adagio was the first to leave, and Sunset stayed though. Adagio assumed Sunset didn't want to deal with her own friends, so she didn't think twice about it. Humans are so frail. With a heavy sigh, she lazily rested her head in her hand again. She stared out the window. She watched as the low clouds quickly rolled in the distant sky. Each day feels more and more like a chore. Everything is so boring.And yet another sigh escaped her as she stood from her chair. She glanced around the kitchen. A sense of dread passed over her as she took in the emptiness and silence. "I need to get out of here," she stated softly to herself. And it was decided again. She was going to walk through Canterlot, because being at home was torture. Her goal this time was to stay out until she had to come home. She stopped near the stairs and stared up them before climbing them. She made her way to the girls' room and opened the door as quietly as she could before peeking into the dim room. Sonata and Aria were both in there. Asleep. They slept in the same bed, wrapped under a mess of blankets. Adagio rolled her eyes before closing the door back. She leaned against the door, as much as she envied them, she was a little glad that they weren't suffering like she was. Being out of the house was nice, but she still felt so detached. Walking around town could only help so much. Her mind was still trying to process, let alone grieve, the fact that she lost her magic. And as her mind wandered the past, she remembered Sunset. A wave of mixed emotions hit adagio. She sat down on the curb of the sidewalk, "life couldn't have been sweeter.." She closed her eyes, a took in a slow breath. She looked up to the sky, and sighed once more. She's doing the same thing she was doing at home. The point of leaving the house was to get away from that, she scolded herself. She made a fist and thumped her forehead with it, just as it smacked she noticed Trixie across the street. A smirk sneaked across Adagio's face. She wasn't happy to see Trixie, but it was nice to finally have some sort of distraction. Adagio crossed the street and caught up with the great and powerful one. "Trixie," Adagio said. Trixie jumped and spun around. "Oh, Adagio.." Trixie placed a hand on her hip and looked Adagio up and down causing Adagio to feel some what vulnerable, yet comfortable all at once. She held her composure as Trixie continued, "..it's you." "It's me," Adagio said with the same smirk. "What do you want, Dazzle?" Adagio stepped closer to Trixie, noting the way she tensed and the satisfaction she got from it. She reached her arm around Trixie, "I'm a changed," Adagio stopped for a moment, unsure what to refer to herself as, "..person." "So?" "So," she moved Trixie to face her, leaving her hands on her shoulders, "let's be friends." Trixie looked at adagio, she was obviously suspicious, "what is this?" "What is what?" "Please, Dazzle, The Great and Powerful Trixie can smell a game a mile away." Adagio rolled her eyes, of course. "What are you talking about?." Trixie laughed, "you might not be evil with magic anymore, but you certainly aren't a better person with out it." It was an honest and fair thing to say. It wasn't like she was trying to be a better person. Of course she didn't know how to be, but still it was fair how ever harsh it may have been "Well, no, I wasn't saying I was." Adagio was finding it harder and harder to ignore her feelings of consternation, but she continued to show nothing but confidence. Her smirk fell, however. "I-" "Look, Dazzle," Trixie interrupted pointing her index finger at Adagio, "I'm not interested in whatever you're trying to sell." Adagio searched Trixie's face as she stepped back. She glared at the amateur magician. They continued to glare at each other for a moment, before Trixie straightened out her shirt and walked away. Adagio pursed her lips together and brought her hand up to her collar bone. She felt for her gem, but to her dismay, it wasn't there. With a huff of defeat, she walked in the opposite direction of Trixie. It was just another sunset over the city. The sky glowed golden, and the clouds were an assortment of dark and light orange. She took a deep breath. The end of the day always felt like a victory. It was just the end of another day. Just getting through another day, just like yesterday, and tomorrow will be no different. The end of the day always felt like a victory, and the sunset her prize. Unfortunately, she couldn't help but think of Sunset while watching the sun set. How could she not, though? It was Sunset's name. The sunset was in her hair and her voice. It was in her eyes and her touch. Adagio shivered thinking of Sunset. It was overwhelming almost. Adagio wanted to hate Sunset so badly, everything inside of her screamed it. Even if she did hate Sunset, how could she have done that in front of her? How could she have acted that way? How could she have been so weak? The sky had already lost its glow and started to turn a darker blue. The base of the sky was still an assortment of yellows and oranges, and the clouds were losing their pink tints. Adagio tried to lose herself into the sky. She wanted a moment that she wasn't stuck in her thoughts as she was tired of thinking of, of dwelling on, the past. She couldn't help it though. There were too many reasons why she couldn't let it go. Adagio couldn't understand why Sonata and Aria didn't feel the same way. Why weren't they mad? The stars were dotting the sky now, and the sky was mostly dark blue. The sun was out of view, but its light still lingered. It left the bottom of the sky a deep orange, almost red. It was hard to believe how fast the sky has changed in such a short amount of time. Or maybe more time had passed. It was hard to say. Adagio leaned back and stretched. She rested her arms on the back of the bench and looked up to the darker part of the sky. She tried not to think about the bands, or sunset. She tried not to think about the kids at school, or how much she dreaded going home. With out all of the pain to dwell over, what was left to think about? Sunset constantly tried to make her way into Adagio's thoughts, however Adagio wouldn't allow it. She refused it, afraid that she'd have to deal with even more pain to dwell on. Adagio looked to the sunset, well, back to the area the sun had set in. The light of the day was completely gone now, and the sky was completely dark. She didn't look forward to going home, or laying in her bed. She didn't look forward to another sleepless night, but there wasn't anything left to do. With that, Adagio stood and made her way back to the trail leading down to the city. Author's Note Well, I stopped writing for so long that I kind of lost track of the story. Luckily I had a few notes left over from the last time I worked on this chapter. Anyway, if it seems a little different that's why. (plus I've really grown as a person too.) Sorry about taking so long, I had to get back into the swing of things This is a rather short chapter compared to the others, only because I found it kind of difficult following Adagio and not having any way to incorporate other characters without it seeming too forced. Enjoy! Feel free to leave any criticism and let me know what you think.
