When it's cold outside

by Luna-la

Rating: everyone
Tags: Slice of Life, Sonata Dusk, Romance, Drama, Original Character, Aria Blaze, Comedy, Equestria Girls, Main 7 (EqG)
Length: 20470

Winter looms in the horizon sending Sonata and Sugarcoat to enjoy a festival a city over and Delz with plan to finally relax. But it was too good to be true when he and a friend come across and unexpected yet familiar face.

It's been awhile since Sonata and Sugarcoat moved in with Delz and this time of year winter silently made it's presence known. After much discussion, both of them decide to visit the a Christmas festival in the next city over leaving Delz to finally believe it would be the perfect time to kick back and relax. However, life says otherwise when he come across a unexpected yet familiar face.

Part of the Sirens with luck trilogy

Published 2016-07-17 19:30:02 UTC
Last updated 2016-10-03 02:21:21 UTC

Chill and relax

"Delz please come with us?" Sonata sat at my feet literally begging on her knees for me to join them to a Christmas Eve festival in the next city over. The festival was in a two days on Christmas Eve and these two know I despise the cold, that doesn't stop from trying though. I sighed and shook my head as she gave a trademark puppy dog face. "Delz come on, it won't even be that bad."

"No."

"Please?"

"No."

"Pretty please?"

"No Sonata."

"Do it for me?"

"Sonata, you know as much as I do that I hate the cold. I'm not going out there if I don't have to."

Out of the corner of my eye I could easily see Sugarcoat getting frustrated. "You'd pass up hanging out with us just to stay warm?"

"Pretty much."

"You are infuriating. A man should be willing to do anything to make his girl happy."

"His girl?" With that Sonata slipped on her coat and scarf and walked out the door. 'Wait a minute, we're not even dating, I'm just letting you live here." Looks like my words struck a cord as Sonata stood, snapped in my face and proceeded out the door. I walked to the door and shut it watching as their taxi pulled away. "I'm starting to think those two actually think we're married. Oh well, my plan worked to perfection. Two whole days to myself with no seduction, arguing, and especially no surprises. Delz you are free to do whatever you want." My plan was perfect with two whole days to waste. In the morning, Catch up on tons of anime, noon, head out to my favorite hang outs and thankfully catch up with friends including some R&R with my best friend Danny but that's only the first day. The next day I would get the house decorated for Christmas and get the presents. Sounds pretty boring which it is but that's not the fun part. Around 5:00, I'll get to help set up for a party going on that night. Sort of like a before Christmas Eve party that'll blow everyone away. A party so big that it will at least attract a couple of cops. "This is going to be epic but first a shower, then Rwby." I must've watched the entire first season cause before I knew it, it was 6:00 AM when I started and now it's 4:00. My phone went off on cue in which I answered "Hello."

Danny's voice came through impatient as ever. "Yo bro where are you?"

"Binge watching can kill alot of time."

"Well get your butt down here, you had me waiting out here for like three hours and it's freaking cold."

"Be there in a minute." I pressed the end button and rushed into the back of the house. I wasted no time getting ready. Within seconds I had already made my way back into the living room and threw on my biggest coat, locked the door, and headed out. I turned around back of my house and opened up the garage on the side. Inside sat my pride and joy, a Scion FR-S. Cost me alot to buy this baby after Sonata and Sugarcoat cleaned me out. I hopped in and took off towards my destination. I arrived within minutes, parked and literally jumped out of my seat. Danny stood outside the door to a famous restaurant. "Yo Danny!

"Hey man, you ready?"

"Let's get inside." We payed up front and took our seats quickly scouting the menu. We made our decisions and folded back up the menu. "Danny man, it's too good to see you."

"Likewise, haven't seen not one glimpse of you this year. Where have you been?"

"Take a wild guess."

"Those two girls who moved in with you? What do they have to do with it?"

"Well you remember the first time we tried to hang out around February. No matter what I told them, they wanted to tag along to everything. I mean I couldn't even go to half the places because of them. The club, the bar, that party at Sarah's house. Really it's just good to get away. Two whole days man and i'm going to spend it having fun with my best bud."

"Delz, I can't imagine being tied down like that. I know what a girlfriend is, those two are just plain clingy."

"Right. Weird thing now is that they're a year out of highschool and it just feels weird to have them making all these sexual advances towards me."

"How's that bad?"

"Dude I'm 21, they're 18."

"Point well made."

"Thank you. What about you man, how's your life going?"

"Dude have I got something for you. So I got a new girl, her name's Megan, don't worry I'll introduce you later. Anyway she's cute and caring and your basic things but when it comes to other women, she can not spare me even an ounce of trust. Like yesterday, me and her went shopping at that new sports store downtown. Here I am trying on some new running shoes and I guess the shoe was defective or something because the tongue of the shoe came off. I went off to inform the nearest employee about the shoe which so happen to be a woman and without a moment to spare."

"She freaking did not."

"Right on the money. Not only did she start the biggest argument with the employee and attack her but we're banned from the store until Megan can formally apologize to the employee."

Both of us were chuckling to ourselves careful not to draw attention. "Dude you draw some of the most extreme and crazy women."

"Tell me about it."

"Remember Lacy breeze."

"How could I not, she almost set my car on fire."

"And Andante."

"If she wasn't the craziest I don't know, she tried to tie me up."

"And Nicole tame. Actually we should ignore that one, we both know who that is." We both shivered from the thought. "Hey here comes the waiter."

"Welcome to Saffron's Spice of Life, may I take your order? Oh! Well if it isn't Delz."

"Rarity? What are you doing here?"

"Even as good as my designs are, there are slow days at the boutique so I come down here to help out my good friend Saffron. My vision on the culinary arts helps her out of tight spots."

"Rarity you're a bit of amazing at everything aren't you?"

"Oh you. Are you ready to order?"

"Yes mam, I would like the Chicken curry please."

"And you sir?"

"Same for me."

"It'll be right out. I'll make it taste extra amazing for you two."

"Thanks Rarity."

Danny tapped my shoulder and whispered, "Who's the fox?"

"Oh her, that's Rarity."

"She available?"

"She's 18 yes."

"Crap. How do you know her?"

"Well I probably never got a chance to tell you since I've been occupied but here's the story." I then began to explain to him the reason they moved in. The sirens, the stalker, how all six of the girls came to my house, even what happened afterwards. "And while they attempted to do some very....inappropriate things...I escaped and locked myself in my room."

"So that's why you called me that day. Just thought you were helping her move."

"Nope Stalker times two."

"Well glad you got them out of there. Even if you don't like them like that, still gotta do the right thing."

"Yep, Parent's raised me right unfortunately."

Out of the corner of my eye I noticed Rarity carrying a platter of plates and food. I drew Danny's attention to her allowing him to clear the table of anything on it. "Hello dears, two chicken currys?"

"You bet."

She set the plates down and began to walk off suddenly stopping in her tracks. "Oh dear, I'm terribly sorry. I forgot to ask for your drinks."

"It's ok, Sprite for me."

Danny looked over the menu one more and noticed one particular thing he wanted to try. "May I get what's called...a...Iced Chrysanthemum Tea."

"Well certainly. I'll take your menus." Minutes later she returned with the drinks and bowed. "I hope you enjoy the meal and thank you for spicing up your life. She turned to leave but then made a complete 180 towards me. She pecked me on the cheek and smiled. "It was quite nice to see you Delz. Call me if you're free later, I would love to hang out." She waved and walked away as I made a fist and began smashing my head into it.

"Delz you have a curse and a blessing."

"This blessing is gonna wreck my morals beyond belief. Let's eat before anything else happens." We happily took a first bite and our eyes shot wide open. "Danny..."

"This.."

"Is freaking.."

"Amazing."

We began indulging faster than what looked humanly possible. Afterwards we talked for a couple of hours but unfortunately the spices began setting in. "That couldn't have been better."

"Delz, we reached heaven. Whew, a little hot though."

"Yea just a little though."

"I mean it's kinda getting hotter but it'll go away right?"

"Yea yea, just gotta wait it out."

"...........Dude my mouth is on fire."

"The drinks, the drinks."

Both of us basically just opened as wide as we could and like a black hole sucked down every last drop of our drinks. Danny started catching his breath as the put his drink down. "Wow that tea is good. There was a flower in it for some reason."

I breathed in and out just to feel the cold air rushing in and out. "Think there's supposed to be one in it."

Rarity rushed over and patted both of us on the back. "Heavens, are you ok Delz?"

"Yea, that curry was hot so you know."

"I could have told you that. Are you ok Danny dear?"

"I'm fine too just gonna need the biggest bag of ice you got."

"Right."

We exited the restaurant with Rarity waving bye. I waved back and we hopped in my car. "Well Danny it's already pitch black out here, what's our next stop?"

"Well that curry did it for me but i'm up for one more thing if you are."

"What do you got in mind?"

"Know that abandoned neighbor hood outside of town? It sounds childish but hows bout we go explore it."

"You just had the best idea you've ever thought of."

"Hey, I make good ideas."

"Not often." I laughed as I pulled out onto the street. Danny had me make a U-turn at his house before we made our way just south of the city to where lay a small abandoned neighborhood. Earlier this year the mayor attempted to build another small suburbs outside the city but met resistance when Natives claimed the land. They were only able to finish construction on four houses before being chased off by natives. The natives have long since left but the mayor is scared they'll come back so he leaves the land alone which works in our favor. We arrived just outside the city and stopped the car. Just over a hill about 5 yards away were 4 houses along with a single road built only for them. Everything else around the area was grass and rocks. "It's pretty creepy down there."

"You should see this place, some say that the street lamps still light up even though there's no power going to this area."

"Really? Oh man this is going to be one hell of a evening. Let's get down there."

We locked my car and hoofed it over the snowy hill. Our feet touched the concrete road and suddenly we felt a chill. It was much colder then anywhere else. I mean the outside temp was about 20 degrees but inside the square of houses, it felt like -20. We made our way into the center of the street where two houses sat on left and right side of the street. "Which one looks good to you Delz?"

The houses were arranged like any suburb. The houses looked exactly Identical and sat about 2 yards away from each other, each had it's own fence and backyard. "They all look the same, how bout the one the left side of the street."

"Which one on the left side?"

"The left one."

"Yea I know the left side of the street which one though."

"Danny, for god's sake the left house."

"Oh."

"They approached the front door and attempted to open it. "It's locked."

Danny's eyes shot open with surprise. "What how? No ones been here in since they left how could it get locked?"

"I don't know but I got the key."

"The key? What key?"

I took a step back and prepared my foot lunging forward and kicking the door in. It flew open as a wooden plank fell to the ground just a few feet away. I noticed the plank and had to collect myself. "Danny someone was trying lock the door with a plank. It's over there."

As Danny made his way in and picked it up, I observed the the house. It was your basic set up for a suburban house. One doorway on the left lead to the dining room and kitchen while another doorway on the right lead to the living room. Directly in front of us were the stairs leading to the upper floor and another dark hallway alongside it. The door to the backyard was clearly visible as the moonlight illuminated the glass. Danny finally stood up and tossed the piece of wood. "Someone was obviously trying to hide out here. By the smell of the wood, seems like it could be an alcoholic. He could still be here so hold on." Danny ran all the way back to the car and grabbed a bag out of my trunk. He ran back and opened it up. I sighed as I saw what he pulled out. "Here."

"What the hell is this Danny?"

"Hey calm down Delz, it's not a real, Just a BB gun.

"Why do you have these and why were they in my trunk?"

"I have them for subtle protection when I'm up here. I put them in your trunk when we left the my house. At least if we meet somebody crazy in here we can fight back or at least stun him."

"You really need to grow up sometimes."

"Would you rather it be a real gun?"

"...Fine."

He handed me a clip and I shoved it in, pulling back and reloading the BB's. He did the same and slung the the bag strap over his head. "Alright let's move out."

He made his way into the dining room taking up your classic at the ready military stance. I just sighed and shoved the gun in pants as I followed behind. We slowly creeped through the house, the silence doing more than darkness ever could. Danny took cover behind a wall and peeked into the kitchen. "Danny would you get serious and just walk please?"

"You sure like to ruin the fun don't you?" He slipped the gun into his pants as well and turned the corner into the kitchen. "This is a nice kitchen."

"These houses would've been perfect to live in. How much were they selling for anyway?"

"About 150,000$."

"Are you kidding me? A house this nice usually soars over 200,000$."

"Yea that was the unbelievable part about the housing. Would've been great to get one of these babies."

"No kidding." We made our way around the kitchen opening cabinets and observing the fine craftsmanship until a big pot on the stove caught my attention. "What's this pot doing here? A moving in present?"

"Yeah right."

"Well what's in.....God!....that's nasty."

"What happened?" Danny peered into the pot to notice the soft and mushy brown paste inside which did not give off the most pleasant of smells. "What in the world is that?"

"I don't know but it's plain disgusting." I slammed the lid down and back away quickly. "Come on let's go look at the living room." We returned through the hallway next to the stairs and entered the living room. It was nicely furnished with a suede couch sitting the center, lots of wool rugs all over the place and white curtains. "Man Danny, to think I could've afforded this back in the day."

"You could?"

"Yea before Sonata and Sugarcoat showed up that is. They practically robbed of like 90,000 dollars."

"What! dude how? Just how?"

"Let's just say designer clothes and lots of scientific experiments not to mention food, bills, and all the other wonders of the world."

"That's insane. Hey is this a suede couch?"

"Looks like it."

"Dude I've always wanted to sit on suede."

"Then let's." We planted our butts in the couch and after a few shifts in position we let out the biggest sigh of relaxation we could muster. "Damn the rich this is amazing."

We sat for a while to take a well earned break until a small thump coming from above us got our attention. We shot up and drew our guns aiming up at the ceiling. "You heard that Delz?"

"Clear as day."

We waited one moment longer just to clarify what we heard. No sound came for what seemed like ten minutes. We sighed letting our guns drop back to our waist until a hellish feminine scream caught our attention. We quickly retreated back the front door and began watching all our corners. "I think this might've been a bad idea Delz."

"I'm starting to think that too. Why did I think this was a good idea?"

"Why do you even listen to me?"

"I don't know, best friends do stupid stuff when together."

Another soft thump near the top of the stairs drew our guns like a magnet. The stairway was extremely dark not allowing light to pass through for anything. Another thump ensued this time one step down and another one more step down. Something was coming down the stairs ready to do whatever it planned. I slipped my figure around the trigger and pressed it slightly ready to fire. The thumps continued until they reached the last step. Whatever it was was directly in front of us not even five feet. Something began to emerge from the darkness, something with fingers, a pale hand. A loud moan echoed through the house prompting me and Danny to take action. "I'm out!

Danny bolted out the door and into the street with me right behind him. As I look back to see what was chasing us, a young girl suddenly lit up through the moonlight and fell to the tile floor shivering. "Danny Danny, it's not a crazy person. It's a girl."

"A girl?"

I made my way back into the house and slowly knelt beside her. I felt her skin and jumped in shock. "Holy crap, she's ice cold."

I picked her up and exited the house. "Danny looked at me with an annoyed look. "What are you doing?"

"Um...taking her somewhere warm."

"Dude this is exactly the situation that got you in trouble in the first place."

"Well I can't just leave her here to die. We need to get her warmed up."

"Alright don't call me if you end up getting into another intimate moment."

"Shut up and get your butt in the car."

We quickly piled into the car and sped down the road back to town. I flipped the heaters on full blast as we made our way back into town. As we drove through the streets, Danny's phone suddenly went off. He answered it and began to speaking. "I'm out with a friend.....You know my best friend Delz?......We were at Saffron's Spice up your life......We're driving back right now, we just saved this girl."

"Danny no!"

"Crap.....well see you don't understand.....Megan let me explain......Alright I'm coming. So it's possible I might have to head back home."

"Really....couldn't think for a second before saying that one huh?"

"Shut up. I'll work it out trust me."

"If you say so. So you want me to take you home?"

"Nah drop me off at Saffron's. My car's parked in the lot."

"Wait what? You drove there and then made me drive you around."

"Hehe..yea."

"You....evil genius."

"One of the best."

A couple of minutes later I parked my car into the lot and let Danny out. We said our goodbyes and good lucks and were on our ways. As I drove back to my house, the faint sounds of moans and groans caught my attention. I adjusted my mirror to see in the back and noticed her moving and adjusting. "Looks like someone's finally warming up."

She slowly lifted her head and rubbed it. "Where am I?"

"Finally you're awake. You feeling warmer?"

"Yea but a nice steaming shower would actually do the trick."

"Well it's not usually what I do but you can use mine until you're back up on your feet."

"Thanks." With she put her head back down. I began to question myself though as her hair looked weirdly familiar. We soon arrived at my house and entered. I guided her back into the shower making sure not to peep on accident which usually gets me hit. I made my way into the kitchen and began messing with some leftovers in a pot my back clearly turned away from the back of the house. After five minutes she finally stepped out slipping on the last of her clothes. "So really thanks for shower. I can't express how thank.........ful...I...am....you...You?!"

Holding one of those giant spoons in my hand, I slowly turned to face the girl who seemed so panicked. "Me? What about me......Oh you have got to be kidding me."

"You're that annoying Delz guy who saved Sonata."

"And you're that jerk of a sister.......Aria Blaze."

What happened to being enemies?

"Well you're welcome for the bath but now you gotta go."

Aria just stared with an annoyed look on her face. "Not like I wanted to stay in the same house with the same person who ruined our plans."

"Then madam," I said as I motioned to the door. "I bid you farewell."

She angrily stamped her foot and stepped towards the door. Upon opening the door she was almost instantly shoved back by the strongest gust of wind i'd ever seen. The sudden change in weather drew me to peer outside where I finally realized exactly what was going on. "I can't believe that I'm stuck here.....with you. I'm going to need all the aspirin I can get to get through the night but even as a Siren, really isn't anything I can do about the weather. Guess I'll just wait this out here....unfortunately."

I stared into the endless abyss of white, a blizzard that had only taken seconds to completely cover us. She watched as I shut the door and dropped to my knees muttering something and only getting louder with each word. "Oh no."

"Yo loser you alright?"

"Oh no no no..."

"Look if you're gonna break down do it over there away from me."

"Oh no no no no...no..no!..no!..no!..no!!"

Two minutes later I returned from a slight temper tantrum in the bathroom and breathed a sigh of relief. "You cool now dude?"

"Yea....I'm cool..now. So since we're snowed in now it'd be best to lay down the ground rules."

"Not a surprise that a friendship freak like you has rules for everything."

"Shut it. First the basics, my TV's yours to watch until the storm clears. What I have in the kitchen is yours to eat and the bathroom is in the back. If the storm goes on for longer than we thought, there's a guest room in the back. Don't touch anything else."

"What you think i'm gonna steal something or maybe even trash the place?"

"I wouldn't put it past you seeing as how I was the sole reason for stopping you and cliche evil sister."

She angrily growled at my comment and got right in my face. "If it weren't for you, we could've easily crushed those stupid Rainbooms. Bunch of soft and mushy push overs."

I just stared with the chillest expression ever while she angrily glared in my eyes. Taking my index finger, I put it against her forehead and gently pushed her back onto a couch. "So hows bout you mind my personal space and calm down. No need to get so worked up about it considering you'll probably try again soon."

"You son of a......" She sighed and began rubbing her temples. "Well...actually..."

'I'm listening Siren."

"It's Aria Blaze stupid..and...Adagio is a cold blooded jerk."

I began to speak in a sarcastic tone. "Oh really. Please elaborate."

"Can you get serious for a second, you are the worst. After we finally got down from that stupid Ferris wheel, Adagio went completely insane. She locked herself in her room and was wither constantly crying or hysterically laughing to herself. Not like I wanted to help but it was getting pretty weird to hear her doing one or the other all day so I offered to talk to her about it. Then she finally snapped without a moment's notice. Like dropping a bomb, she said it as calm as ever."

"What, let's try again?"

"No idiot...Get out. She just kicked me out without a second thought."

"Adagio seems to be the ringleader in this group huh?"

"The worst leader ever."

"Hell it's been a few months since that day, how have you survived?"

"Disgusting hotels, staying with friends, and eventually staying in those house outside the city, of course that changed when winter rolled around."

"I imagine, you were ice cold when I found you."

She brought her legs up on the chair and assumed the fetal position as she placed her face into her knees, something I thought i'd never see from a girl so punk rock and stubborn. "I.......don't know what's wrong with me, why I'm so stuck under her, why...I can't seem to stand up to her. I know sometimes I may joke about doing my own thing but I never follow through with it. Sometimes I....just..." She began to ball up her fist and shake with anger prompting me to grab the most durable pillow from the floor and toss it to her. "I just!.." She took two ends of the pillow and literally ripped it in half. "Hate her!" I guided her back onto the couch to which it seemed like she calming down until latched her arms around me and began crying into my shirt. "You tell no one about this or I will personally break every bone in your body, capiche?"

"I've had enough injuries caused by women already."

"I can't believe i'm showing this side of me to someone I can't stand but all my friends think I'm some kind of hardcore punk rock chick. You're practically the first person who actually listens and doesn't suggest that I punch her in the face all the time."

"Well why don't you?"

"Because I...." Before she spoke again she sat up, wiped her eyes, and looked at me. Quick as a bullet, she nailed me in the arm. My arm felt like pure torture as I held it in pain. I swear I saw flash when she punched me. "That's for making that comment...and I don't because....It's stupid to say..but I'm not that kind of girl."

"Ow, I'm sorry what?"

"Were you even listening...I said I'm not that kind of girl."

"You're kidding. What about the clothes, the punk rock music?"

"Dude it's all for show. Why am I still talking."

"I was asking the same thing considering you went from hating me to confessing your innermost secrets but hey you know what, I don't mind."

"Oh don't worry I still hat....Wait you don't?"

"No I've sadly learned to listen to women's trouble, no thanks to your sister."

"What problems could she possibly have? she's as dense as a rock."

"You could not begin to imagine. Anyway I'm all ears if you're willing to tell."

"Alright.....wait a minute, what game are you playing here?"

"A game? what are talking about?"

"You're just trying to butter me up so you can get some aren't you?"

"I'm so confused, what are you talking about?"

"You just want sex don't you? Don't you?!"

"What?! No no no, that's not at all what I meant."

"How do I know you're not lying?"

"Because, why would I jump into sex and we've seriously only known each other for what, an hour all together."

"Oh..good point. I guess that's the reason."

"Did I miss something besides the fear I feel?"

"Stupid I thought it would be obvious. I'm tired of being taken advantage of."

"Really I felt like you would intimidate most guys."

"That's what I want them to think."

"So why not be nice and intimidating?"

"Because it didn't work. Back in Equestria, the guys who seemed so nice and caring would always hit on me at some point or time. So I decided when I got banished not to let anyone ever think they can just make a move on me again. My perfect reasoning for being a cold and heartless punk girl."

"So why did that not apply to Adagio?"

"She knows who I really am on the inside and uses it to her advantage."

"In the form of making you and Sonata do whatever she wants you too. Doesn't sound like a sister to me, more like a oppressive warden which would make you her oppressed henchmen."

"Exactly..oppressed henchmen. Can't do a damn thing about it because she knows I wont. I was soft so I changed."

"I don't see why."

"What do you mean? You weren't there, you didn't see all the disrespect I got."

"Yea but I see all the disrespect you get right now. She kicked you out of the house you guys pay rent on. I wouldn't be surprised if she was out on the streets right now. Doesn't that say enough?"

Her expression became blank as she stared off into space. She was so lost in thought that I could literally wave a hand in front of her face and nothing would happen. Without warning she latched her hands onto my shoulders with a look of nervousness on her face. "Then...I...would like to ask you a....favor..I guess."

"Depends on what it is."

"It's going to be loads of weird for me and I feel like it may end me back in my vulnerable state but..."

"Come on spit it out."

"I know we're enemies and all but if it won't be too weird, I would like to show my...true self around you...as kind of a start."

"Wait what does that mean?"

"I'm going to start acting like how I really am. I'm not all punk rock and mean." Her accent began to switch to that of a royal and formal voice. "Actually I'm rather nice on the inside."

"........Ok maybe it's a little strange to see you change from one personality to another but I'll get used to it."

"Thanks hon." Not gonna lie, it's a bit awkward to see how she was suddenly become such a sweet and innocent girl. Everything about her began to change, the way she spoke and formed sentences, the way she sat suddenly became a formal position with one leg over the other, her attitude became sweet and innocent, the atmosphere around her was so much calmer. "Delz was it, how's bout we get to know each other officially."

"Like what exactly?"

"You know the basics, like our likes and dislikes, favorite food, crushes..I mean, sports, you know."

I refused to do much reading into what she tried to erase from her sentence. "Alright then you first."

"Well my name is Aria Blaze nice to meet you."

"And I'm Saitoh Delz."

"Oh so you're Japanese?"

"Half actually. You speak?"

"Fluently actually. I found their culture to be very intriguing so I took up some lessons."

"Well then. Onaka ga hettemasuka?"

(Are you hungry?)

"Hai, Onegaishimasu."

(Yes please)

With that we moved our conversation the kitchen. I grabbed the big pot out of the cabinet and placed it on the stove. "My world famous Spaghetti fine?"

"World famous?"

"That's how Sonata treats it anyway."

"Oh certainly."

With that I began cooking and we continued our conversation. "Well now that you know me and my culture how about you?"

"Would you even know where I resided?"

"Probably not, good point. So let's move on to other things shall we. how about interest?"

"Oh I could go on for days. It's been a while since I was in Equestria so I kinda forgot those interest but here things seem so much more detailed. Some of my more interesting hobbies include singing, basketball surprisingly, reading, and maybe writing.

"Writing? I'd never see you as someone who likes that kind of thing."

"Yea the darker side of me would never admit it. I actually have alot of interest but never really got into them."

"Like what?"

"Oh you know, cooking, fashion, and...cars."

"Did you say cars?"

"Yea..I don't give off that impression but I'm actually a pretty hardcore gear head."

"Wow, you speak fluent Japanese, you love to read and write and you love cars. You little overachiever."

"Oh stop you."

"So it'll be about another ten minutes for the food. Anyway my hobbies include my lovely Scion FR-S, men's fashion of course, and gaming. Of course I don't have alot of time nowadays to really get out so my interest are a bit short."

"Well why's that?"

"Take a wild guess. Your sister and Sugarcoat have had me tied down since they got here.

"Sugarcoat? Oh that lovely girl from Crystal Prep."

"Yep found her on the side of the street trying to escape a stalker. Tried to beat them up for her and got double teamed then went to the hospital. After that came back and found my house infested with high schoolers. After telling me thank you for doing the right thing they left me alone with your sister and Sugarcoat and...."

"And what?"

"I'd rather not say..."

"Come on Delz, please?"

I really didn't want to say anything about the...incident but how could I say no to her now adorable smile. "They attempted to...have their way."

"Oh dear..I never thought Sonata would be capable of such a..inappropriate thing."

"Upside though, I got away and locked myself in my room. They still try here and there but I'm kind of immune now."

"Well where is my sister anyway?"

"The next city over at some Christmas festival till Christmas eve. I'm actually glad to be free of the seductive nightmare those two are for two days."

"Well aren't you lucky. And judging by this list you left on the counter you have everything planned out."

"That may change unfortunately."

"Why?"

"My friend Danny who was supposed to be available got sort of...yanked by the chain. He's dating this new girl who is a bit jealous beyond belief. She heard we found you in the snow and instantly flipped out."

"Oh my, I'm so sorry about that."

"No, it's not your fault. We made the choice to go up there and honestly I'm glad I did. We would never found you had it not been for him mentioning the abandoned neighborhood."

"I'm flattered. I should really thank him if I meet him."

"I'll introduce you as soon as he finds a way to break that chain."

"Hehe." Her laugh changed as well. It suddenly became a complete polar opposite of her old laugh which sounded like a tomboy. Now her laughs and giggles sound as if they were coming from a young schoolgirl. I began to think hard on how much more likable she was as turned back towards the pot. I slipped the glove on and began to take the top off but suddenly I stopped. My body froze up with a complete inability to move it. I wondered what was stopping me until I began to notice my thoughts slipping towards...her. "Delz are you ok?"

I nervously couched and rubbed the back of my neck. "Oh..fine...i'm fine just making sure I was cooking this right."

"You sure, you seem flushed all of a sudden?"

"Um...the pot burned me you know."

"Oh no, do you want me to take a look at it? I do know to some degree a bit of first aid."

"No no, I get burned all the time, i'm fine trust me. Anyway the food's ready." I prepared our plates and sat them down on the counter which is technically the dining table. I retrieved two forks from the drawer and placed one in mine. The other I started to hand to her until the tiniest touch from her hand turned mine completely limp in which clumsily dropped the fork to the floor. "Oh crap, let me get you a new one."

"Oh no let me pick that up while you get another."

"Trust me I got it."

"No no I'm the guest." We both slowly made a grab for the fork and that's when it happened. We both touched the fork simultaneously making us both look up. She stared into my eyes and I stared into the now innocent and suddenly cute violet eyes. It was easily apparent now that the blush on my face reached a whole new level. "Are you blushing Delz?"

I grabbed the fork and jumped up. "No way."

"I know blush when I see it. Are you, as they say in the country, catching feelings."

"Don't even joke like that, I just met you, there's no way. The heat from the food just made my face hot."

"If you say so." I handed her another fork and we began eating. There's absolutely no way I like her. We technically just met. I don't even think someone that nice is my type. What if she's just acting like this to get some free food. I mean so what if she's so sweet it's downright adorable. So what if her eyes not mention her body are just so mesmerizing. She could faking it for all I know. She could.....what if...she isn't. I jumped up from my seat and bolted into the back. "Delz what's wrong?"

"Oh nothing just gotta check something in my room real quick." I quickly slammed the door and slid down to sit on the floor. "I don't have feelings for a highschooler let alone a pony. I don't have feelings...I don't....I don't...I do..don't...do.....Crap....Why do I have to attract the pretty ones?"

Author's Note

Well isn't that surprise, Aria Blaze is a complete polar opposite of what she appeared to be. I think it's a nice twist if I do say so myself. And to boost the effort I put into this chapter, Final Fantasy offers some of the best music for these types of stories. Who would've thought music meant for a game would fit so well into my writing.

If there wasn't a friendzone, there's definitely not now

"Delz are you ok? You've been in there for at least 10 minutes. Should I call someone?"

"No no, I'm fine just had a bad memory came to mind is all. It's a bit traumatizing you know."

"Um...I understand I guess. Please come out soon or it'll seem like you're avoiding me."

"No worries there." I heard the soft taps of her feet against the tile trail away as I let go of the thousand year old breath I was holding. "No promises. What is wrong with me?" I anxiously paced back and forth growing even more frantic at even the thought of this...sensitive situation. "What the hell is my problem. Here I've tried to avoid any and all situations with these just teenagers just out of highschool and here I am in that exact situation. What even is it about her that makes me so nervous. It can't be her sudden change can it? I mean she's obviously faking just to win her food....right? How can I even sure? Maybe...." I reached into my pocket and whipped out my phone immediately dialing Danny's number. The phone rung for a couple seconds before switching over to voicemail. I ended the call and dialed it again. It rung for a few more seconds this time and finally Danny picked up his end. "Danny you there?"

"Yea sorry about that. It was like ten times harder to get my phone from her than I though it was. Did you know she knows Judo?"

"Freaking really? Nevermind that, I need your help."

"With.....You like that girl don't you?"

"Well see...about that....what had happened was....look fine yes but for a very good reason.

"Oh this should be grand."

"Shut up. You can't tell anyone you hear me."

"Yea yea, just say it."

"Ok so that girl we saved was actually....wait for it....Aria Blaze."

"Aria Blaze?!"

"Keep your voice down."

"Sorry, Aria Blaze? As in evil Siren that tried to kill you Aria Blaze?"

"Exactly the one."

"Dude you're hate the enemy not make a move on her."

"I didn't stupid. Actually...I might've locked myself in my room."

"Wait why? That just screams awkward."

"Well...she changed."

"Changed? Clothes or something."

"No, like changed everything. Turns out that whole punk rock theme she had going on was a complete and utter ruse. She's seriously forever nice. Good attitude, cute laugh, regal voice, I swear she has to be perfect girl."

"But didn't you make an argument earlier that the whole 18 and 21 thing wouldn't work?"

"Don't play dumb Danny, you know why I say that."

"Oh..right. She found out about it yet?"

"Not even my own mother has a clue. Anyway what do I do to get rid of her."

"Why would you wanna make her leave. Dude you've been out of the game way too long, I say you get to know her."

"No way."

"Fine you big baby. Listen if you want.....Megan, how long have you been there?...I'm talking to Delz....you can even ask him over the phone."

"Hey Megan."

Apparently she wasn't having any of that as moments later a wrestling match between him and her ensued. Through his struggle he was able to keep control of the phone for another second. "Dude you are on your own for now."

With that the phone call ended and my hope dropped into the pit of my stomach. I returned my phone to my pocket and walked out of my room. Not bothering to wipe the sweat from my forehead. I made my way back into my seat and continued eating my now cold food. Of course this solicited concerning looks from Aria. "Delz are you ok? You look quite pale and sweaty."

"Um..yea, I was just killing a spider."

She retracted her feet from the floor in fear. "Ew! Please tell me you got?!"

"Don't worry we're fine, it's dead."

"Oh thank Celestia but who were you talking to?"

"Oh that...I do that when I'm scared, that's right."

"Oh everyone has their quirks."

"Yep."

Suddenly her gaze dropped to her lap as she began to mutter something quietly. "Lies....lies....lies....lies........Delz, I have to ask you something."

"Um...sure what's uaauo!" Without warning she tackled me out of our chairs to the ground. As I open my eyes I realized that now she sitting on top of me completely pinning to me to the floor. "Aria what's going on here?"

"We need to talk..."

"I'm about to get raped aren't I? Ow!"

Aria responded to that comment with a very hard slap to the face. "Such unprofessional behavior, no that's not it you weirdo." Twas then that she suddenly became the quietest thing on earth and then she spoke. "Did you think I wouldn't hear you?"

"Hear what?"

"Don't play dumb. I was...listening the whole time."

"I didn't mean to tell anyone I swear."

"I could care less about who you tell. That wasn't the part that got me." She put her hands around my upper arms and gently squeezed. "What got me was......the fact you were nervous around the real me."

"I'm sorry?"

"Delz.....have you actually noticed something about us Sirens? Why do you suppose Sonata flocked to you so suddenly when she had plenty of chances to leave?" She began tightening her grip around my arm. "It's because....we're alone Delz. Thanks to Adagio's stupid plans we have been utterly alone. Sonata can pull off that super cute charm, I on the other have been cold and heartless to protect myself. Before, everyone used to approach me without a care in the world about how I feel. Now, no one even gives me a second glance. They're always nervous to be anywhere near me. Nervous not because they think I'm out of their league but out of fear. Scared that i'm going to turn them into some kind of beast or ruin their lives with my singing."

"But you're changing right. You just need to ease your way into acting like this around everyone."

"You're right but that's not what....what i'm talking about. Delz.....I....like you...alot. I don't think I've fallen in love so quick."

"Love? We just met though."

"It doesn't matter. I don't care....Even as quick as it seems, I fell in love the moment you accepted me as me. Not just that.....you....actually got nervous around the real me....like a nerd drawn to the prettiest girl in school you tried to avoid me and figure things out. No one's ever done that before." She brought her head to rest on my chest soaking my shirt in tears. "All my life, I've either been taken advantage of or people are to scared to give the time of day. You were the first person to ever give me the chance to love. Most only want my body but from what I heard, you went completely limp at the thought of my personality."

"Aria I know where you're going and I just wanna say.....it's not gonna work."

Suddenly she sat up with even more tears in her eyes. "What do you mean?....I poured my heart out to you and this is what I get."

"Well it's just that i'm 21...and you're 18...."

".........what kind of excuse is that?"

"Well the age....."

"Don't you dare give me that.....you're hiding something aren't you?"

"........Aria, it's not something I like to talk about."

"...................."

"Aria?"

With that she hopped off me and proceeded towards the door. "Fine...I'm leaving..."

I felt something inside welling up as her hand slowly reached for the doorknob. My conscience was screaming at me to tell her but my pride wouldn't allow it. She turned the doorknob and the door creaked open. I shut my eyes and grinded my teeth as the oncoming truth was about burst out. "Oh Sweet Celestia It was Adagio ok!.....please don't leave."

She shut the door and proceeded to sit back on top of me which was a bit weird to say the least. "What do you mean it was my sister..."

"I'm going to regret bringing it back up but.....I dated Adagio at one point."

"Dated? She only had one boyfriend.....wait...that was you? That was a century ago so that means...You're from Equestria? how?"

"I...lived in the pony equivalent of Tokyo back then. I left when I was 17 with a goal to see the world. It was then that I met a pony named Adagio. We dated for a year and everything seemed great until her certain visit to canterlot. After that visit, she returned back with a different outlook on life. One that was so nice and sweet became mean and distrustful. That was around the time that I found that she was a Siren and was using her power to feed off the negativity of our relationship. The best relationship I ever had was the biggest lie I'd ever lived and so we broke up. That was around the time star swirl banished her and both you and Sonata. Everyone soon came to find out that I dated the supposed Siren. Thinking I had some kind of Siren magic on me, everyone began avoiding little ol' me. Soon I found myself at the portal in which star swirl used to travel between the two worlds. Without looking back, I went on through and started life all over. I just wanted to get away long enough for those who see me as a outcast to get over it, that's why I brought a very potent youth spell. I've been living here ever since.

"Delz...I never knew you had it as bad as us....I'm sorry..I." We sat in silence watching as the time passed by. It was that I began laughing uncontrollably. "Hey what's so funny?"

"I really am an idiot. After hearing the words come out of my mouth, I just realized that what I did was the stupidest thing I ever thought of. What a pathetic person I look like back home."

"Stop it...You're not pathetic. If anything I'm the pathetic one. I changed my entire life just to get the respect I could've earned by having the courage to stand up for myself. Adagio gave me that false courage and what did it do, get all three of us banished......"

"No you're not pathetic. All this...hatred we have built up all stems from one person. Thanks to Adagio, we missed valuable moments in life to fix our mistakes."

"I hoped long ago that I would've figured this out."

"Trust me we both did. Unfortunately those mistakes are way out of our time, I regret not going back to at least go say goodbye to my family....my friends."

"I don't know how but.....I wanna fix my mistake....I want to help you fix yours too."

"I don't how but I guess one can hope right?"

"Indeed." With that she laid her teary but overall happy face back against my chest. I wiped the tears from her eyes and we and her both enjoyed a deserved rest. For about 10 minutes we enjoyed the bliss the silence gave us. When I felt it necessary I shook her slightly to snap her out of falling asleep. "Oh dear, I was this close from drifting off."

"I'm guessing my body is just that comfortable."

"Yes indeed. Say do you workout?"

"Not on a regular basis. I'm don't have abs or rock hard pecs like most guys but I'm fit to say the least."

"Nice to see someone who isn't completely obsessed with their image."

I checked my phone and was surprised at the time. "It's only midnight?!"

"Midnight? Heavens that little situation didn't last as long as I thought it did."

"Well even after that little episode, I'm not entirely sleepy. Half the things I planned aren't until tomorrow night."

"Can I hold you?.....I mean...it would be nice if we could just...."

"Well I broke my insecurity a long time ago so why not."

Her face lit with as much joy as she could muster as I flipped the TV on and sat down. She downright teleported next to me throwing both her arms around me as if to hug and cuddle at the same time. We didn't last more than five minutes before our minds gave into the sleep. I woke up slightly to the sound of the TV and grabbed the controller to switch it off. As I placed the controller on the arm of the couch next to me, I took one last glance at her. I didn't think it possible but as much as I tried to avoid it, this girl broke me out of a century old shell and for once I wasn't disgusted at the thought of someone trying to get close to me, In fact I was the happiest i'd ever been. To make things even better, she had just the slightest amount of blush on her face and smile that could kill me in a second. This planted a smile on my face as I closed my eyes and followed the lure of sleep.

Author's Note

Don't you dare think this is over yet. We still have alot of story to get through and i'm just getting started.

Getting over haunting mistakes

I woke up to the sound of soft moaning originating from Aria's soft slumber. The soft beams of light shone through the window just begging the world to look outside. I was almost immediately eager to do so but as things had happened last night, Aria's arms were still firmly wrapped around me and that smile still stuck upon her face. I was cautious removing her arms being as careful as possible not to wake her up. After about two unsuccessful attempts in which she would regain her hold around me I finally found myself free and able. I removed my phone and checked the time. "6:00 huh? I was expecting to crash much longer but I guess this gives me time to get some things done early especially now that Danny is unavailable. Seems like a nice and sunny day today compared to that massive blizzard last night." I walked over and hauled my blinds out of the way to let the sunlight in. With a somewhat magical feel, the sun instantly made it's way into the room. The warmth emanating from the rays of light felt like absolute bliss compared to facing the cold outside. "Man I could stand here forever."

"On days like this, the sun feels simply divine."

I turned to face the now upright Aria basking in sunlight as well. "Good morning miss clingy."

"Miss clingy....what does that mean?"

"Well you were so latched onto me last night, I had to adjust myself quite a few times."

She turned her head to her lap to nervously play with her fingers. "What!....um..sorry you were just so comfortable."

"Haha I'm just messing with you. It's actually really fun to see you embarrassed you know."

She smiled at my comment but still nervously played with her fingers."Knock it off jerk. What time is it by the way?"

"Just a little past six in the morning."

"My my, what a surprise. I expected us to sleep much longer after that little episode last night."

"I thought the same thing. Unfortunately, any plans I had as of day time are screwed thanks to Danny's new girlfriend."

"So what now?"

"Well fortunately, now I have a bunch of free time to go Christmas shopping."

"You haven't gone shopping yet?!"

"Well no, I was planning that for tomorrow. I have time now however so it would be the best option."

"I guess I'll get going then."

"Wait what? Why would you leave?"

"Well I'm sure your plans didn't include me correct? Might as well get out of your way for now."

"You're kidding right? After you put me through hell and back last night, no way I'm just going to ignore all that, you're coming with."

"Really? Well ok."

"Besides, I live with two women remember? I could really use another opinion on decorating the house."

"Then you sir have come to the right person. But if it's not too much, could we drop by a store?"

"A store?"

"A clothing store to be precise. I really am not fond of such dark colors."

"Trust me, thanks to my job it's well within my budget. We can stop by a friend of mine's boutique."

"Thanks a ton Delz."

"Alright let's go then."

"Um......." She slowly began to giggle and point to my clothes. "You might want to change. I deeply apologize for roughing up your clothes."

She wasn't wrong, my shirt was stretched in three different places and for some odd reason the were spots still wet with tears. "Right be back." I returned moments later with my change of clothes and we strolled out the door. We made our way around the corner to the Scion in which she jumped at the chance to quickly examine the entirety of the car. "So what do you think?"

"You did a outstanding job souping up the car, of course by the look of things, it's not exactly perfect yet. There were a few adjustments I saw needed to be made just in case or else your car may have some issues with engine."

"Here I thought I was the expert on cars. You really know your way around a car don't you?"

"I aim to learn everything I can."

We hopped in the car and took off towards the friend of mine. After about three blocks we came to a stop at the light just down the street from the boutique. We had noticed something up with my car the few times we came to brake. The car would slowly begin to shake only when I applied the brakes then stop just as suddenly when I took my foot off. "What in the world? I just took this car to the shop, what could be the issue."

"Apparently this shop of yours may have gave a bad brake rotor."

"A bad brake rotor? I examined the parts myself, there's no way it's bad already."

"Unfortunately your brake rotor is warped. I would easily but sadly advise against using the car until you can replace the brakes."

"How are we going to do that in the middle of traffic?"

"Get out and push I guess."

"Dear Celestia, the days that were supposed to go right."

We risked all the prying eyes from passing drivers and I turned off the car and we hopped out. We started pushing the car up the street getting plenty of angry grunts and comments from other drivers. "I still find it both fascinating and mysterious that you were from Equestria this whole time."

"How so?"

"Well it's that the only person to ever travel through the portal was Twilight Sparkle. Not a single pony in Equestria seems to know about it besides the princesses and her."

"Star swirl wasn't that great at keeping secrets to tell you the truth. Where do you think I got that youth spell?"

"No wonder he lived as long as he did."

"This is her place up ahead, just a couple more feet." We finally pushed the car into a spot out of the way and put it in park. As I shut the door, I was stunned at the sight of Aria who was completely frozen at the sight of the name plastered on the boutique sign. "You ok?"

"Um...well you didn't...exactly tell me this was.....Rarity's boutique."

"If you want the best designs, fashions, and the finest work then Rarity's the girl."

"You really didn't do your research did you? Siren...Rainboom....Take over the world and all that."

"Oh....oh boy...I completely forgot about all that. I know that you guys aren't exactly fond of each other but maybe she forgave you."

"After all the trouble we put them through?"

"I mean as far as I know, they are very understanding and probably would forgive even the most evil of people. Look you need clothes don't you?"

"Yes..but.."

"Come on what's the worst that could happen?"

"I guess you're right."

"Don't worry I'll be right by your side the entire time."

We approached the door and stopped as she started building the courage to go inside. With a big sigh she pushed door open listening as the bells rang just above. A elegant voice echoed from the back of the shop. "Welcome to my boutique, I shall be with you momentarily darling." As we waited, I examined the shop. Direct center stood a circular clothes rack showcasing some of the amazing handmade dresses. On the sides of the shop stood straightened clothes racks. On these racks hung a different dress with multiple copies for each. I guess she makes more detailed and different dresses on request." Behind us were the store windows with mannequins modeling the outfits. I turned back towards the back of the shop to see the purple haired fashionista walking towards us. "Well hello Delz. It's quite a surprise to see you here. Come here to take me up that offer?"

"Well yes and no."

"Hmmm?"

"Well I came here for some clothes actually."

"Really? did you need something tailored or resized."

"Oh no no, not for me. Actually it's for a friend."

"You mean the one attempting to conceal herself in my clothes rack. Please come out of there darling, I won't bite." Aria slowly revealed herself from the clothes soliciting a small but faint growl from Rarity. "A siren....come to cause more trouble have you? Well I just want you to know that i'll do anything to protect my fashions and I do mean anything."

Aria quickly cowered behind me. "Rarity calm down a second, it's not like that."

"Then please inform me why she is in my shop. She used her voice to hypnotize you didn't she?"

"Rarity I'm shocked, you're usually the last person to hold such a grudge."

It was then that she noticed Aria cowering like a little kid behind me. "Oh dear, I am terribly sorry. I'm might've had some built up aggression from talking to a customer yesterday, please forgive me."

That apology finally forced Aria from behind me. She stepped closer to Rarity and nervously stared the ground. She looked back to me for support in which I motioned her to go on. "Rarity...I would..like to formally apologize on behalf of the Dazzlings. We didn't mean to try and take over the world.''

"My my why the sudden change in tone."

"We didn't know what we were doing, we only wanted to be accepted."

Rarity looked at me for confirmation obviously confused. "Turns out that Adagio was the one pulling all the strings. Aria's so called sister provided both her and Sonata with false courage and hope to make them do her bidding."

"What a monster." She pulled Aria into a hug with utmost understanding. "I always had a feeling that you two weren't exactly in control of your actions. I do apologize for all the hatred I've ever put against you."

Aria looked and smiled. "Thank you Rarity. I am forever joyful that finally accept me."

"Oh that's adorable."

"I'm sorry?"

"When did you start talking so elegantly? Even your posture and sentence structure have changed."

"Well I kinda always talked like this."

"I'm guessing you two have a rather nice story to explain to me don't you?" We sat down and explained the events of last night in their entirety. "Unbelievable. You're from across the portal?"

"Yep, born and raised."

"And you've been here for over a century, it seems unreal to say the least especially since you're so devilishly handsome."

"Yea..youth spell I got from over there kinda helps."

"And it's nice to see that you finally broke out of that hardcore shell Aria darling. It really didn't suit you."

"Well it only temporarily helped but of course I ended up with Adagio shortly after."

"Do me favor and never return to such a nasty attitude. I really find the real you pleasantly adorable, cute even." Aria's blush painted her cheeks red as he turned away. "Calm down dear, I'm only joking. So what brings you to my shop on such a cold day."

"Well I was hoping you could make me some new clothes."

"Well certainly. I'm guessing to replace the uncouth clothes you're wearing already."

"I was looking to ditch such a hideous outfit."

"Well you have my support then."

I grabbed my wallet out of my back pocket just to have it ready. "I'll pay whatever it costs."

"Oh heavens no. For a friend like you this is on the house."

"Are you sure? I mean I'm not broke, I could easily pay you."

"And let that weigh on my conscience for the next week, I don't think so. You just sit there and act surprised when you see her new outfit."

"You're serious? Thanks Rarity."

"You're ever so welcome. Now come along Aria, we have much to discuss." I took an empty seat in the middle of the room and waited it out. Hour upon hour rolled by before I finally payed attention to the time. "8:30? And here I thought clothes were easy to make. 2 hours and they're still not done." I sat upside down on the chair as if a child to continue waiting. I felt myself slowly fall asleep until Rarity busted out of the back room making me fall straight on my face. "Ow! Rarity?"

"Sorry to take so long darling but fashion is time consuming hobby. Now introducing the new and improved Aria Blaze."

I rubbed my head and turned myself upright again just in time to see Aria nervously take on large step out of the back and turn towards me. "Well what do you think...is it...nice enough."

"Nice enough...are you kidding me? you're beautiful..i mean it's cute and all."

Her blush peaked at that point as she tried to avoid any and all eye contact as she walked passed me. Rarity walked over and held out her arms. I really had no choice but to give into her embrace. "I'll have to pay you back somehow Rarity, thanks really."

"It wasn't a issue trust me. It was also nice to see a budding relationship at it's finest."

"Yea don't point that out will you."

She giggled at my comment and handed me a slip of paper with a phone number on it. Listen darling, if you need any advice whatsoever, don't hesitate to call. I put the number in my phone and proceeded to walk out obviously scarred by how she was still trying to get me alone. As my foot neared the door I instantly realized our situation, the reason Aria still sat inside the store. "Oh man I forgot."

"What's the matter you two?"

"Well we had some car trouble on the way here, a warped brake rotor I found out. All the snow out there makes it really dangerous to drive without brakes."

"My my, that is a dilemma."

"I could have someone tow the car but we also have stuff to do today."

"Hmm......Ah yes, tell you what." She picked her car keys and tossed them to me. "You can borrow my car."

"Wait wait wait, borrow your car? Rarity I know you made me a dress but don't you think letting someone else touch your car is a little much."

"Nonsense. I will literally be here all day working on requests. As far as I know it's just collecting dust." It was amazing to see just how generous she was with something so valuable. "Let me just remove the rest of materials from the trunk and she's all yours."Box after box she brought in and set in the back until finally she was finished. "I sure stuffed alot of boxes back there. Alright Delz you're good to go."

"Now I really am going to have repay you."

"No trouble really."

"No way. I insist, just you wait."

"If you really want to, I wouldn't be against it I guess. Have a nice day dears. Oh and please do bring it back as soon as you can."

"You got it." We walked out and around the side of the shop to get a look at the car to which our jaws dropped to the fresh snow. "How is she even able to get one of those?"

Aria's was in more shock than me. "A white and purple Mercedes Benz?"

"What kind of money does this girl make?" We bolted inside the car and were greeted by a smooth leather interior. "This could not be any nicer."

"Just make sure not mess the car up."

"Oh i'm being extra careful with this baby." I turned the car on as we strapped ourselves in. I eagerly whipped onto the road and took off towards our destination, the mall. You think people would get their Christmas shopping done early but nope, here we are driving around in circles looking for a spot to park. "Come on already......There!" I whipped into the nearest spot I could just as another car was making it's way down the lane. "Almost lost this spot but thank the princesses for helping us outcast out."

We stepped out of the car and proceeded down the lane to the crosswalk. "So Delz what are we shopping for anyway?"

"Christmas decorations. Since I decided to stay home and all, I was given the job of decorating the house. Figured I'd get it done early."

We entered through the electronic front doors and made our way into the mall. "Delz..Do....do you miss Hearths Warming Eve? With all the ponies back home?"

"Missed all my life. There's something magical about this time of year that brings people and ponies alike together as one." As we stepped onto an escalator going down, I kept my hands at my sides. It was then that her hand nervously but firmly grabbed mine. "If you wanted to hold hands, you could've just asked."

Just like that her hand retracted back to her person and a little blush returned to her face. "No no no no, that's not what I was trying to do at all I...just..."

I chuckled to myself and and focused on getting off the escalator. Just across from the escalator sat the prime example of Christmas heaven, not to mention the store was actually named Christmas heaven. "Alright there it is."

"Christmas heaven? I've never heard of such a store."

"Well they only show up during the holidays and to top it off, only in select locations. This year I was lucky enough to catch them close enough to my house. I still hope I can count on your opinion though."

"Right. I'll do my best to tell you what's looks good. Of course if you want to ignore anything that sounds wrong then feel free."

"Don't worry, if you say it's good then it's good."

We didn't even get to a single step before a familiar voice made itself known to me. "Well I'll be..Delz is that you Sugar?"

I motioned Aria to stay turned around as I turned to face the voice. "Applejack? Long time no see, and I see you brought Rainbow Dash too, what's up dash?"

"Howdy to you too."

Rainbow Dash walked up and proceeded to fist bump me. "So what's up? You come here to get some things for a awesome Christmas party like us?"

"No actually, I just came for decorations."

"Just decorations? What kind of guy doesn't celebrate Christmas with a party?"

"Well me of course."

As Rainbow Dash dragged me into a conversation about parties, I noticed Applejack peer around us to examine the girl behind me. "And who's the beauty over there?"

"Um...just a friend."

"Well howdy over there."

Aria's body tensed up at the greeting given to her forcing her to stay turned around. "Sorry bout that AJ she's very shy around new people."

Rainbow Dash, as much as I tried to stop her, bolted around me to the girl's side. "No one's that shy around a friendly face. Don't worry, we don't bite. Come on show us that pretty face of your's."

Rainbow Dash as gently as she could but still forcefully turned Aria around. The moment their eyes met, both Applejack and Rainbow Dash just froze in shock. "Guys I can explain. Please just calm down for sec."

Applejack grabbed me by the shirt and pulled me in close. "There's a food court round the corner where we can talk. I reckon you make your explanation good."

"Oh crap...."

The mall can be fun

I nervously rubbed the back of my head, a single drop of sweat trickling down the side of face. "And that's what happened."

After ten minutes of explaining, Applejack and Rainbow Dash stared both Aria and me down to the point where we were easily cowering behind our emotions. We jumped back in our seats as Applejack sighed and shook her head. "Ah don't want believe you, ah really don't....but your story is more solid than my sturdiest barn."

"So you believe us?"

Applejack nodded with a smile, of course Rainbow Dash didn't offer the same understanding. Instead, she proceeded to get up from the table and walk away. Within seconds, Applejack jumped and stopped Rainbow, pulling her off to side and have a very low key conversation. Both Aria and I just looked at each other and back to the whispering friends. I tapped her and motioned to the stairs just opposite of the two friends with my head. We silently got up from our seats and began sneaking away until a loud grunt from Rainbow Dash stopped us in our tracks. We turned like two guilty convicts to the staring girls. Applejack pushed Rainbow a little then motioned to us. "Go on then, say it."

Rainbow held on to her annoyed expression as she sighed then opened her mouth to speak. "I want to get to know you."

Applejack nudged her. "Louder."

"I want to get to know you alright."

I rubbed eyes as if to break myself from a dream. "I'm sorry what?"

The blush began to paint her cyan colored cheeks. "I judged to fast ok. Reform is possible so I would like to get know her."

She growled at your dumbstruck expression. "You...you want to forgive somebody?"

"Well yea...what's the issue?"

"It's just...you know."

"I know what? Are you saying I hold grudges or something?"

I'm probably stupid for continuing this topic. "Well yea actually, there was that whole incident with applejack before the fall formal and then the friendship games and let's not forget that little problem with Sunset two weeks ago where.."

I was suddenly cut off by a lack of air. It took me a while before I finally noticed the boot to my gut. I must have flipped over two tables before crashing into a nearby wall, feeling as if my life was slipping away as everyone watched a small ghost version of me start to float into the air. Aria became concerned, frantically shaking me as I lay there. Finally, after about three minutes, I was able to stand up, pop any bones back into place, and dust my self off. I approached Rainbow who kept her gaze slightly averted from mine but that didn't seem to hide the blush on her cheeks. "I'm sorry for kicking you Delz."

"It's all good." I said as I began to stretch.

"You're not hurt?"

"Yea no."

"But I kicked you pretty hard didn't I? You hit that wall like rock."

"Yea after living with people who literally end up doing that everyday, you learn to resist it. So what was that part about wanting to get to know Aria?"

"W...well after the Sunset incident with the whole she-demon thing, she became a really great friend. So after alot of convincing and...possibly a bribe, I'm willing...to try and accept Aria...even though she tried to control the whole school."

The response politely asked for a smack to the back head which Applejack happily and swiftly provided. She rubbed her head and pouted a little making both Aria and me chuckle silently. After much thought, Aria finally gathered up what little courage she could and took a step towards Rainbow Dash. "So....you want to know me?"

'I said it didn't I?"

She jerked back at the response but struggled to hold her ground. "Yes I believe you did. Well if you would like to know the real me. I...suppose I should tell you the whole story." We all nodded in agreement, getting up from our table and dumping our food into the nearest trash can. As we walked around the mall and Aria began to spin her tale of getting from Equestria to this world, I couldn't help but admire the three girls. Rainbow Dash, her awesome multi-colored hair, that absolute kick-ass attitude, she's any man's dream. Applejack however, she could knock a man dead with that beautiful accent, those freckles just make you want to stare. Aria though, simply wonderful. nice and silky smooth skin, eyes that could mesmerize for hours, and so shy, it'd be downright murder to be so cute. "Delz, are you ok?" Aria said as she looked up at me.

Finally I realized my mistake and turned away scratching my nose in embarrassment. "I..I'm fine just...fine." What an idiot, I was just staring like a freaking idiot. Keep it together Delz. I attempted to keep myself occupied by checking out the many stores as Aria continued talking. It was when I heard a loud gasp that I turned to face Rainbow and AJ in shock. Simultaneously they blurted out, "You're from Equestria?!"

Quickly I shushed them and brought them in close. "Yes I'm from Equestria but I would appreciate it if you didn't blurt it out to the world."

Rainbow, like a giddy school girl, jumped up and down. "You guys have to tell us everything, I'm dying to know."

"I really don't want to.....fine, just let us get what we came here for first."

Applejack rubbed the back of her head and nervously chuckled. "Sorry sugar."

"About what?"

"Well ah knew you had things you were looking to do and even with that thought, ah still dragged you fellas away from that. Sorry if we wasted your time."

"No no, you didn't waste out time at all." Aria said as she took hold of Applejack's hand. "If anything, this was glorious meeting of fate, a chance for me to repair my mistakes and make new friends. Delz if it's ok with you, I would like hang out with Applejack and Rainbow for a little while."

I shrugged and checked my watch. "You're your own person now Aria. No need to ask me for permission. There are a couple other things I can take care of while i'm here as well as the Christmas shopping plus it's only 10:00. I got about two hours to kill so let's meet up at the center of the mall at 11:00. That give us time to get the decorations home and set up." They all nodded and we separated without a look back, Aria taking AJ and Dash to explore the mall and me to do the work. Just like with Sonata and Sugarcoat. I made my way past an escalator and aimed for a pet store. As I approached, there appeared to be a sign on the front door. Please close the doors quickly upon entry. I shrugged, opened the door and shut it quickly as possible. When i turned to face the store I was greeted by an onslaught of barks and licks. I could hear faint giggling in the background under my own as the dogs continued their wet onslaught. "Ok, hahaha, please make them stop."

Two claps ensued and the dogs backed off. I stood up and wiped the slobber from my face as I peer to the origin of the claps. "Well hello there Delz. It seems my friends liked you."

"Fluttershy...Fluttershy!" I ran up and hugged her without warning, spinning her around as if she were my daughter."It's so great so see you again."

"My my, what lovely greeting. Could you perhaps put me down though?"

"Oh sorry." I let her feet touch the ground again and she patted herself down. Before you ask, no we're not dating. Actually I see her as more of a mother figure to me. Believe it or not I actually knew the Rainbooms long before I met Sonata and well at that time, I was in a pretty bad situation. For sometime I had been living with foster parents who just so happen to be Japanese in nature but after I left, things didn't go so well. Almost evicted, no job, no food, basically the definition of a bum. It was Fluttershy who came across me wondering the streets and took me into her home. As if I were a little kid all over again, she fed me, clothed me, and eventually would go to help me get my job at the clothing store thanks to Rarity, and even buy the house I live in now. Any normal man would be in crush central right now but not me. I could even go as far as to call Fluttershy mom, that would be hell of weird though. "So how have you been?"

"Oh i'm doing fine really."

"Oh come on, there's more than that Flutter."

"I...well I suppose that I've been looking forward to Christmas this year."

"What's up?"

"Well you know that animal shelter four blocks down."

"Local Paws animal shelter?"

She brought her arms to her chest in this cute fashion, her fist sitting just below chin and a smile locked upon her face. "That's the one. Well tonight, there's something going on that i'm hosting."

"You're hosting?"

"Yea, a Christmas party for the animals. All of my friends are gonna be there."

"It's nice to see someone as amazing as you care enough to even throw them a party."

"They are my weakness I admit, but the true weakness would be if you weren't able to make it."

"Fluttershy I don't think I can....unfortunately...actually."

"Well why not?"

"Well see, I got invited to another party already."

"Oh that's too bad. I would've really loved to see you there. Well either way, I'm going to stay happy about this."

"There's the Fluttershy I know and love. I actually came to give something."

"Oh really?"

I began to remove a small box from my jacket pocket I had concealed before leaving the house knowing full well that I would see some of the Rainbooms today. I handed it to her, watching the blush rush to her face as she opened it up. She slipped one finger under a chain and lifted it up. "You like it?"

She feasted her eyes upon the custom made silver Angel, the bunny she carries around all the time, necklace. Inside the silver bunny was her name engraved. Tears began to rush to her eyes as she tried to utter any words she could. "Delz....I..don't know what to say....I'm....this..is."

I opened my arms as she rushed in for hug. "I know I've been...distant these past year and I just wanted to say that I still love you, mom."

"Oh honey, that word is just so weird when it comes to us. But right now, it's perfect....son."

All the animals seemed to let a slight sound that seemed to sound like awww. Finally we broke our hug and she began to wipe the tears away from her eyes. "Sadly, I do have other things to do today."

"It's quite alright Delz. You just made my day." I smiled and gave her a smaller hug before exiting the store. She happily waved and almost immediately starting admiring the necklace. I looked at my watch to check on my progress. "10:05, making good time." I proceeded up the escalator and began searching for a certain store. "Where is it...um.....maybe around the corner..ah ha, there it is, Pegasus." I walked inside and was instantly greeted by, "Sunny Flare?"

"Hello there Delz. So you're the new eye-candy that Sugarcoat has been staying with."

"Eye-candy? Is that what she's been saying about me to the Shadowbolts?"

"Not at all. I just assumed the way she talks about you, you were downright gorgeous. Man, was I right." She said she started checking me out.

"Um...In order to avoid anything that may happen in the next few seconds, can I pick up the things I had on reserve?"

"Right away." She said in a sensual tone as she turned to walk to the back, swaying her hips in a sensual way. She appeared a moment later with a couple of dresses Sonata and Sugarcoat had been drooling over the last time we were here and set them on the counter. I ripped out my wallet and handed her my debit card. She swiped it and handed it back. After she folded the clothes into a bag and handed it to me, she put a finger on m chin and brought me in close. "Say, if doesn't work out with your two new roomies then just give me a call." She said as she slipped a piece of paper into the bag. "I'm always available."

My face instantly turned red, finally I began to realize her intentions. "I'll be sure to take that into account. And i'm walking this way now." she laughed as I quickly rushed out of the store. Desperately, I wiped my forehead and let out a sigh of relief. "I got find a better way to deal with this, seems like every glamazon in the city is looking to get me alone." I made my way across the mall to many other stores finally ending up at the entrance to Christmas heaven around 10:30. Even with all the bags I was already holding, I had the drive to get this done. I strolled inside and picked up all the decorations I needed. "Lights..check..blow up reindeer..check..tree..check..alright that's the outside of the house. Now let's see inside..actual christmas tree..I will get someone to drive it over..three huge teddy bears..check..candles, lights, ornaments, food, table cloth..check, check, check, check, and check. Alright then that should do it.Wait a minute? How am I going to get any of this home?"

"We may be of service sir."

To my surprise the voices did not sound familiar. I turned, expecting someone at my height only to look and see three little girls. "Oh well hi there cuties. And what are your names?"

"I'm Applebloom."

"I'm Scootaloo."

"And I'm Sweetie belle." I became confused as they took a cheerleader pose spelling out CMC as they yelled in sync, "And we're the Cutie Mark Crusaders."

"Cutie Mark Crusaders?" They couldn't be talking about an actual Cutie Mark could they? "So who exactly are the Cutie Mark Crusaders?"

Scootaloo stood up nice and tall with her eyes closed, and a cocky smirk on her face. "An ingenious name If I do say so myself. We, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, are destined to do anything and everything we can to help out the people of the fair city."

Applebloom jumped up with excitement just about almost toppling me. "And Christmas just so happens to be the most rootin tootin time of the year where we can shine. That just so happens to be the store we're working out right now. Christmas heaven is the central hub for all your Christmas goods and at the center of all, the Cutie Mark Crusaders."

"So let me get this straight. You three little girls...are here to help all the customers...with these heavy boxes of decorations and trees."

Scootaloo immediately grabbed me by the collar and reeled me in, her eyes only centimeters away from mine. "Don't underestimate us just cause we're short. We're gonna help you carry all this stuff back to your car and you're gonna like it."

"But...I have a christmas tree...and I..."

She finally let me go and motioned her two friends to her side. "No buts, we're doing this mister let's go!"

"Aren't you gonna need some help?"

"Nope!"

"Do you want my help by chance?"

"Alright girls lift the tree on three....one." Scootaloo said as they placed their hands under the tree.

"Are you sure you want do this?"

"Two."

"Can anyone please help me out here?!"

"Three."

"Oh no." The loud sound of a tree smacking against tile filled the mall as three loud cracks could be heard. "I told you."

"Ow that hurt, I think we popped our backs." Sweetie Belle said as all three of them rubbed their backs.

"Either I find someone to help or I'm going to be here a while."

Author's Note

I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Literally, my favorite part to write had to be the mother to son relationship Delz has with Fluttershy, so sweet :3

The mall was fun

"Look you three, I feel like you're gonna cause serious damage to yourselves if you keep this up."

All three of them of continued to lift the tree but spoke simultaneously none the less. "But we can do this, we know we can."

"Oh boy..If there is such thing as a miracle, then let it happen now."

And so spoke the voice of my miracle. "Girls, when I told you help the customers, this isn't what I meant."

I turned to face the fiery haired girl waving at me in her excellent beauty. "Sunset? What are you doing here?...And what are you wearing?"

"I work here and this is just a simple santa suit."

"Since when does a Santa suit include short shorts and stockings?"

"I added my own style...what do you think it's too much?"

"No no, just a bit revealing don't you think?"

"I attract those pervy boys all the time. I figured I'd use that to my advantage to get people in the store."

"Well it's working...I mean not on me you know i'm not a creep."

"Hehe sure you aren't. Anyway I'm guessing that my three little helpers decided to help you."

"They've been lifting that tree for the last twenty minutes, I think they took to far."

"Yea they are an ambitious bunch, take lots of pride in that whole Cutie Mark Crusaders thing which...would explain the tree I assume?"

"Bingo."

"Well i'm sure you don't want to be here until after christmas so let me take care of them."

"Thanks."

Sunset walked over as they were resting and rubbing their backs and squatted down to their level. "So how's this going so far."

Applebloom attempted a smile but just winced in pain as she rubbed back. "It's going just fine...just..ow, need a few minutes to rest."

"Girls, I don't think this is something you can lift, It's better you better you try to be helpful in other ways. Applejack nor Rarity would be happy if you guys got hurt."

Wait a minute.....Applebloom....Applejack...Oh my god how did I not see that before...."Say you probably can't lift that tree but I do have a bunch of stuff in those two boxes behind me that you could help me with."

The girls jumped up as if their injuries never happened, I myself wasn't surprised at their sudden burst of energy, being friends with Pinkie Pie really prepares you for it.

"I got the decorations!" Scootaloo yelled out.

"I got the presents!" Screamed out Sweetie belle.

"I got the teddy bears!" Applebloom yelled out as she attempted to pick the three huge teddy bears.

They're not that big but you average person could only hold two at a time. Sunset walked over and caught the third one as it fumbled out of Applebloom's hands. "How bout I get this last one kay bloom?"

"Thanks miss Sunset."

I removed my wallet and paid the other worker at the register, not a cheap price for all this but it's worth it as I grabbed the rest of my bags. As we walked through the mall, three girls seemed beyond happy, walking, talking, laughing, and even singing a little song. It was catchy to be honest, even I whispered the words to myself. "We got hearts...as strong as horses."

I stopped when I heard Sunset chuckle at my attempt to silently sing. "Nice to know there's a good heart in there."

"Well the song is catchy ok..don't judge me."

"haha I wasn't, it was just cute is all."

"So Sunset, do they really volunteer as young as they are?"

"Well yes and no. In reality, Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash ask me to watch them for this day every year. It gives to set up for parties and anything alike."

"I'll be honest, I had no idea they were their little sisters."

"Really? I thought Applebloom would be obvious."

"I'm easily oblivious."

"Hehe got that right."

"Thank you for agreeing....hey!"

She laughed at her successful trick and flipped open her phone. "So can I ask you something?"

"Sure..wait....where did you keep that phone?"

"Where do you think I kept it?"

"......Never mind..."

"That's what I thought. Anyway, is it true?"

"What true?"

"That you're from the other side of the portal?"

"Wait how did you know about that?!"

"Rainbow Dash texted me."

"Of course she did. Yes it's true."

"Why keep it a secret?"

"Well I had no idea that there were other people from the other side besides the dazzlings, figured everyone would kinda freak out if they just heard me blurt out I'm from another world. Wasn't until maybe I met Sonata that I found out that not only did you come out of the portal but the freaking princess of friendship. By the way, I've heard that she looks just like the Twilight here, that true?"

"Seriously the spitting image."

"Wonder if there's another me here that I didn't know about."

"That wouldn't be the weirdest thing I've seen while here. Hey there's Applejack and Rainbow Dash...hey gu......" She stopped when she laid eyes upon who Rainbow Dash was chuckling with. "Is that...Aria Blaze?"

"Sunset please, I can explain."

"That's..........awesome."

"Please don't kill her......I'm sorry?"

"It's seems that the whole evil siren business went out the door and she's ready to be reformed right?"

"Wow....you were one of the last people I thought would take this so easily."

"I'm not that Sunset anymore. This one is trusting and friendlier than the she-demon I turned out to be."

"Thank Celestia."

"You really are from the other side. I thought I was the only one who still says that."

"Yea it's something I've been saying for the last couple years all of a sudden and I just never stopped. People question it and I just say it's a childhood thing."

"Good excuse I suppose. Anyway let's go greet our friends."

Applejack seemed the most confused when the crusaders greeted them first. "Applebloom? What're you doing here sugar?"

Applebloom set her box down and gave her sister a big hug. "Helping out at the christmas store. We're just carrying a few boxes for this nice man."

"And who's this nice man?"

"We didn't get his name but here he comes right now."

I waved to Applejack who let out a sigh of relief and waved back. "Why the sudden tension Applejack?"

"Because ah love my little sister and would kill anyone to make sure she's safe."

"Whoa...a bit overprotective there Applejack."

"Um..sorry..it's a weakness ah know. Who's that there behind ya?"

Sunset peeked out from behind me and waved. "Heya AJ."

"Hey there Sunset. These three aren't giving you trouble are they?"

"Not even a little bit. By the way I noticed Rainbow Dash didn't even get up to come greet us."

"Yea...she's got Aria locked in pretty deep. Not even me standing in between them stopped them."

I looked over at watched as they talked and giggled to each other. "They really can't hear us can they? Rainbow Dash?" No response. "Aria?" Still nothing. "I bought you guys what you wanted for christmas, do you wanna know what they are?" Not even a glance in this direction. "Wow you're right AJ."

"It wasn't a problem but ah even had to push them all the way here."

"Well get ready to push again we have to get back to house to put all this stuff up."

"I'm beat but ah guess it wouldn't hurt. Question though, how we gonna get that tree you're carrying back to your house?"

A deeper voice came from the distance but none the less was recognizable. "Ah think I can help."

"Big Mac? What are you doing here brother?..Granny Smith made you do the shopping again didn't she?"

"Eeyup. I heard you needed some help though so I'm offering. I got a truck in the parking lot that carry that thing."

Big Mac looked to me for confirmation which was a bit surprising to be honest. "Well if you really want to, I'm not saying no. That cool?"

"Eeyup. Hand me the tree, ah'll get it strapped in and wait near the exit to the lot."

I did just that and watched he effortlessly carried the tree out the nearest exit. "How does he do that? That tree hurt my shoulder."

Applejack laughed and extended her hand. "He's a big guy for a reason. Now hand me some of those bags, they seem heavy."

"Thanks." I felt my body relax as the weight dropped off of it. "Finally some relief. Shall we head out to the car?"

The three girls responded simultaneously with a salute. "We shall!"

We happily parked the car a bit closer than most and that made the trip a bit easier. "Alright people decoration and the bears in the back, ornaments and presents up front." They slipped everything into place as I closed the trunk and wiped my hands. Sunset gave everyone a hug which seemed to mean alot more for me as it was an extra long hug. She interrupted Rainbow somehow and they began talking as I knelt down to Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. "You guys were a great help today. You may have not been able to lift that tree but you did help me with all the other stuff, even those big bears. You, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, have succeeded in helping someone out today and so.."

I ripped out my wallet once again and handed 20$ each. Their smiles almost gave me a heart attack as looked at each other for confirmation. I was downright frozen at how cute it was to watch them jump up and down and say in sync, "the Cutie Mark Crusaders are helpful."

Sunset finally said her goodbyes and escorted the three back into the mall. We hopped in Rarity's car and made our towards the exit of the lot. I rolled down the window and motioned to Big Mac to follow. We made our way down the streets and finally in front of my home. Big Mac dropped off the tree and waved goodbye to all of us. "So is everyone ready to get decorating?"

The three girls responded with a, "you know it!" We all stepped out of the car as and began to grab decorations. I locked it soon after stopped them all before entering the house. "Alright let's assign roles people. Who take the cold for the longest?"

"Me!" Applejack and Rainbow screamed as they raised their hands and immediately looked at eachother with competitive looks.

"Whoa you two, this isn't a race. Let's just focus on getting the decorations up. So you two will take the outside decorations and me and Aria will take the interior decorating, cool?"

They both nodded but Aria just hugged my arm and purred. "I hope we both have the same taste in decorating."

Everyone watched as my cheeks instantly switched red like a light switch. i nervously coughed and just patted her head. "Yea...me too."

Rainbow and AJ simply laughed with annoying little, "Awww."

Quickly I sped up the stairs with everyone else in tow and proceeded to unlock the door. As it opened however, "Alright let's sort through what I got real quick and...aaaaaa.a.aa.a..a.a.and...." My entire life flashed before my eyes as I stared at the two figures sitting on the couch.

"Hello Delz." She said as she scowled and adjusted her glasses.

"What you been up to lately?" The other one said as her eyebrow twitched with her scowl.

I dropped the bags on the floor and whistled a tune as I began to slowly make my back down to the car.

Both the figures shot up in blinding speed and screamed out, "Get back here!"

I bolted to the car and proceeded to try and unlock but the key just wouldn't go into the hole. Like a classic anime, I turned to see a wave of bright colorful energy coming straight for my face. I sighed and accepted was about happen as the my vision instantly turned black.

Love is a virtue, no matter what form

Author's Note

I really love writing romance stories, this one is testament to that. There is however one more story connected to this and that one will be even more emotional then this one.

Stay tuned.

I apologize for not uploading this chapter, I really thought I did until I started going back through them.

Love is a virtue, no matter what form

"Sonata, please just let me explain?"

"I can't believe you....would do this...." She screamed from behind my bedroom door.

I can't believe I let those two lock themselves in my room. "Just let me explain..it's a funny story actually." Suddenly I felt the door unlock and without warning, I was on the floor. I looked over to one of my shoes and felt where it had impacted. "Was that really necessary?" I hopped up and proceeded back into the living room where Aria, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash were anxiously awaiting my update. "I don't think they took too well."

As I sat down, Aria handed me a bag of ice. "Do they really disapprove of our connection?"

"If they were superheroes, we'd be the villains."

"This is unacceptable. I thought my sister would be more understanding. I mean you atleast told her you didn't like her that way right?"

".........Um...ok...listen.."

Rainbow stood up slowly, her facial expression that of the "You screwed up" look. "You at least gave them signs right....a clue?"

"Well......s..see what had happened was...I tried to get rid of them as nicely as possible but...I'm a nice person at heart, my morals don't allow me to be the bad guy. Before I knew it, they were moving in."

The sound of the door opening echoed throughout the house and into the living room strolled Sugarcoat. "Can we borrow you for a second." She said pointing to Aria.

"Um...well..you're not gonna hurt me right?"

"Oh not at all, we just want to talk. It's not like Sonata crying up a storm is the back, actually she's laughing uncontrollably."

Aria looked to me for confirmation and I nodded for her to go. "Don't worry, I'll be there in a second if things go south."

We must have waited for another hour, anxiously wondering what happened. Finally, the door to my room swung open and the three girl strolled out. Tears stained all three of their cheeks but nonetheless, they seemed happy. All three of us jumped up, me the most concerned out of all. "Is everyone ok? Did you guys work thing out?......Am I going to have to make a hospital run?"

"No." Sonata said. "Everyone is fine. We had a talk and figured some stuff out...but.." Sonata and Sugarcoat took their seats on the carpet next to Applejack and Rainbow while Aria took hers next to me. "We'd like to hear the story from you."

"The story?"

"About how you two suddenly came to this sudden burst of love."

"Oh that one...do I have to?" Everyone, even Aria, stared at me with evil curiosity. "Alright alright, just don't burn a hole in me with those eyes. While you girls were out at the festival....by the way why did you come home so early?"

Sonata adjusted her glasses. "My senses were tingling."

"Ah....ok...so while you girls were out, me and Danny decided it'd be good to hang out after so long. So we met at a place, ate, and left. It was then that he had the sudden idea to go and explore those abandoned houses outside of town, and as his best friend, I agreed, so we did. We only got to explore one before Aria almost scared us off. That was when I noticed that she was almost a complete victim of hypothermia and frostbite so I brought her home and got her warm. At first, we were ready to split ways as soon as we figured out who each other were but a blizzard blocked us in. We went at it like a couple of animals before we finally came to understanding about something. Adagio Dazzle is a jerk. She also kicked Aria out after having her stamped under foot for so long."

I looked to Aria who suddenly interrupted me. "That was when I decided to show the real me, one that wasn't all punk rock and mean."

"After she revealed her real personality, that's when I became crazy attracted to her, even tried calling Danny to help ease my options. After talking with him, I came back to reality, rejoined her in the living room and then we had a little heart to heart."

Sonata and Sugar coat scooted closer to me as if to solicit more. "We want to hear everything."

"I don't think this something I'd like to tell just anyone."

Suddenly I felt Aria wrap her arms around my one of mine. "It's ok, I'm here."

I let out a nervous sigh and began. "When you two came around I was.....out of the dating game....or..I didn't really want to date anyone."

I began to tell them what took place all those centuries ago with Adagio. Sonata stared in shock. "So your were that guy...all those centuries ago."

"Yep."

Sugarcoat shakingly adjusted her glasses. "And you're from the other side of that portal, like that Sunset girl."

"Exactly."

Sonata shook her head as to cope with what she just heard. "I definitely...was not expecting that....But even so, how does that make you two in love?"

"I thought you were listening Sonata. I.."

Aria cut me off with a finger. "I did it. I opened up to him, because he actually listens. I told him about how my new and improved attitude as Adagio calls it, and how it was affecting me. I thought that it was giving me confidence, that it was giving me a chance to not be taken advantage of." She said as started to tear up. "All it was doing was running off everyone I wanted to be friends with on the inside, the guys I wanted to date.....At first I thought Delz was another one, but after opening up to him, he was willing to accept me as me, no tricks included. Like pressing a button, that was the instant trigger but I wasn't sure if he felt the same. Until he fled into his room and I heard him talking."

"...You two really made a connection that night?" Sugarcoat said as she stood up. We both nodded. "Well I understand now."

I gasped at the sound of those words reached my ears. "You're kidding right?...Right?"

"Nope. Logically, You two really made a connection and I'm ok with that."

"How bout you Sonata?"

"I'm not ecstatic trust me, but I completely understand."

"Glad we got that sorted out."

"Now if you'll excuse us, me and Sugarcoat have to go freshen up. Shall we?"

They both nodded and shut themselves in their room. The sound of zippers could heard making Applejack wonder out loud. "They looked about fine to me."

Two minutes later they emerged....with suitcases. I stood up immediately after realizing what they were doing. "hey hey hey, what're you guys doing with those."

"Me and Sonata are going to hit the road."

"But why the suitcases?"

"Hit the road permanently."

".....You're leaving?"

"You're a good man Delz, you helped us with our problems without even a second thought."

Sugarcoat finished as Sonata continued. "But we feel that we can get back on our feet just fine thanks to you giving us some newfound confidence."

"It's only best that we don't intrude on what you and Aria have." Sugarcoat said as she adjusted her glasses.

Everything seemed to be thrown into slow motion that moment but my mind raced 100x faster. What do I do? I don't want them to leave do I? Helping them was only a moment of being a upstanding citizen....... "You do what must be done...."

Who said that?

"You know full well who I am or have you forgotten our more than recent time together?"

You're the one who helped Sonata right. One of the little princesses."

"I am aware of your long kept secret Delz, know that I am little no more. As fate would have it, I was drawn by a strong sense of emotion to come and aid you in life once again."

What possibly could I need help with?

"Your two friends there, about to leave your life forever."

I don't know what to do Celestia, they make my life here so worth living but...if they leave...I might be alone with Aria from now on.

"Ask yourself this...Love may be a need but friendship is a must...do you really want to see those who make you so happy leave."

I......no..

"Then speak out against their action, make it count my boy."

My boy?

"We'll have to talk about that some other time..you know what to do?"

Yes princess. My body flew like a rocket towards the door stopping them dead in there tracks. "I..I can't let you go."

Sonata and Sugar both jumped back in shock, not from just my sudden movement but the general idea that I would choose to stop them. "But didn't you want Sonata and me to go!"

"Didn;t you want and Sugar to find our own lives."

"I did.....at first." I said as a single tear streamed down my cheek. "At first, I felt as if helping you was just the right thing to do. So maybe I was hoping that you would get out soon, maybe I was hoping that this whole romance novel our lives are would just pass.....Something changed. I learned about how important our friendship is, one that can last a lifetime. Even if Aria is my love and I couldn't live without her, i couldn't go on without you guys backing me up. Each and every one of you. Twilight, Sunset, Applejack, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Rarity...All of you are something I can't risk losing..."

Every single person within my apartment jumped up and gathered quickly into a hug. Both Sonata and Sugar responded, "That's all we needed to hear."

The res of that morning went smoothly after that, nothing seemed to draw in even more drama. We assigned the roles and were able to string up the decorations nice and fine. Aria seemed to be getting along better than ever with her sister despite the sisterly arguments they would get into here and there. Finally we regrouped back inside the house, prompting Aria to check her phone. "Oh Delz honey, that party you planned on going to will be starting if I remember you telling me correctly."

"Really?" I checked my phone and realized that we had spent ten times longer with the drama then we had with decorations, It was about 2:30. "Oh yea, they're expecting that I help the set up and get some things for the party." I threw on my jacket and was about to step out the door until an memory of a certain shy, pink haired, woman flashed into my mind. "You know what?...I think that a party is great and all but...I feel guilty for not taking part in something else sooner."

"Like what?"

"Hey Rainbow, you and Applejack are heading to Fluttershy's animal christmas party right?"

"Yep, gonna be the most rockin party ever."

"Text her and say that an extra guest is on the way soon."

Applejack jumped up in excitement and damn near crushed me with a hug. "You mean you're going?"

"Yes...please stop killing me."

She released me and both her and Rainbow cheered like giddy school girls. "Ah believe Fluttershy will more than excited to know it's you."

"No. Don't tell her it's me, in fact tell her I'm still going to the party. I want this to be a surprise."

"Ah see what you're doing."

Rainbow flipped open her phone and texted exactly that. "Alright, me and AJ have to get going. We still got some things to pick up for the party."

They said their goodbyes and exited my house allowing me to motion towards the three girls. "We, ladies, are doing some more shopping."

"Wait why?" Sonata stared in confusion but eventually realized what my plan was. "Oh, I'm like so dense."

We hopped in Rarity's car and headed for boutique where we officially returned it. Apparently she had had gone through the trouble of taking my car to a mechanic, replacing the warped part, and returning it to the spot she found it, good as new. I must've hugged her for more than what was considered normal as my car is my baby, besides Aria. We made our stop at the mall an must've stayed in there in for at least two hours before heading back to my house. When I was asked by the three what we were doing just sitting at home now, I'll I would say was, "We wait." Hours and hours passed, we found ways to entertain ourselves, Aria and Sonata took the moment to rekindle their sistership even more until finally, 7:30 rolled around. I stood up and began shaking everyone awake who had fallen asleep during our prolonged waiting time. "Alright people, this is the time that Rainbow gave me to surprise Flutters the most."

Sonata yawned and stretched. "Like why did we do that so early?"

"Because I wasn't sure if stores would be open at this time. Now everyone in the car, let's make someone happy." We arrived at the animal shelter and turned off the car. Rainbow texted for us to stay in the car as they were still trying to get Fluttershy in position. After about ten minutes passed the planned time, Rainbow finally shot me a text saying, "Sorry about that, she was worried about a fight going on between two animals, go now!"

Quickly we hopped out of the car and entered through the already open door. Fluttershy was standing there in front of me, hands over her eyes as she hummed a quiet tune. After the three girls joined me in front of her, I put one of my arms around Aria's waist and sat there smiling. Finally Rainbow and AJ returned next to Fluttershy and whispered, "Open them."

Her eyes widened and her mouth lay agape. The sight in front of her was something that she needed at this time of year. "De...Delz.."

"Hey mom, merry christmas."

Her eyes turned to waterfalls and instantly she was all over me. Her tears stained my shirt and she was hugging me with all the force she had. "I can't believe you came."

"I wouldn't miss something like this for a stupid party."

She looked up at me with a smile that could light an entire galaxy. "I love you."

"Me too."

We could both hear nervous coughs coming from beside me, Aria glowing with bright red blush. "And who are your friends?"

"Oh well you know who these two are, Sonata and Sugarcoat."

They both gave the peace sign. "And who is that beauty shying away from the conversation over there?"

"Another you may know, Aria Blaze."

"Oh well nice to meet you officially Aria, you know without the crazy siren business." Fluttershy said extending her hand.

Aria returned the handshake and greeted her as well. "It's very nice to meet you officially too. I do feel rather nervous for the others inside however."

"Oh! She talks so proper. That's truly adorable."

Aria blushed a hard as she could and hid behind me. Sonata appeared next to me and began looking back and forth. "So is there any particular reason you called her...mom?"

Fluttershy giggled and explained the story. "When Delz was just growing up here, about his teen years it looked. Life was not so happy, I took him in and helped him get on his feet. You could say our relationship is more of a mother and her son type of thing."

All three of them sighed in relief and and Aria finally appeared from behind me. Both Rainbow and AJ motioned for us to come deeper into the shelter as well as Fluttershy. Everyone proceeded...except for Aria. "Aria, you ok?"

"I can't do it."

"Do what?"

"I can't face them. I know one of them will still hate me."

Without even thinking I cupped her face brought her in close. "Look at me Aria, look at all the friends you've made already. Everyone has to learn to forgive and forget at some point in time. You can make them forgive you, I know you can. If fluttershy can forgive you, then everyone else can. If I could forgive you even after you blasted me, then everyone else can. If you didn't forgive yourself, I wouldn't love you so much."

"Oh...Delz." Without warning her lips touched mine of her own power. She placed her hands on my chest as our tongues danced like tiny snakes. Her lips tasted so sweet like honey, both of our passions flowing outward like a blazing fire. Finally we broke the kiss and stared into each other's eyes. "That's the first time we've kissed huh?"

"Yep...I gotta say...going down."

"Going down?" Suddenly my legs felt like jelly colliding with the floor, she struggled to keep me up but failed as we both fell to the floor, her on top of me. "Judging by that, I guess you really do love me."

"To the ends of the earth."

"Excuse me." Applejack's voice said. "You two lovebirds want to come join us?"

"Y..yea..sure. Just let me get the rest of the presents."

"What do you mean by presents."

"After you left, our mall trip represented by two hours of shopping was to get presents for each and everyone of you."

"Ooooooowe!"

"I'll get the present Aria, you go introduce yourself. Don't worry you'll be fine."

She nodded and got off of me. I originally went to go and get presents but secretly watched from down the hallway the led to the animals earning me clear view of Aria building up the courage, with AJ's help, to confront her past enemies. She opened the doors and stepped inside. Everyone but AJ and Rainbow gasped at the sight. "H..hello everyone. I do hope you can accept me as a friend, the things I did in the past were all for Adagio. I would like to make amends."

I watched her face change from nervousness to confusion and Sonata jumped up from within the group of girls. "Hey sis, you guys sure took your sweet time out there."

Sunset and Pinkie, the only ones who needed making up to got on either side of the her and put their arms around her in an inspiring hug. Pinkie laughed uncontrollably as she spoke. "Silly girl, Sonati over there already explained everything."

Sunset spoke next. "That Adagio Dazzle is a real jerk making you guys do her bidding all this time."

"So so so we accept you as one of us, a friend. Just know I don't give discounts on party cannons though."

Aria began to slightly move in levels of laughing. First a giggle, then a slight laugh, then before anyone knew it, she was laughing to the point of crying. After her outburst she wiped the tears from her eyes and spoke. "I can't believe how understanding you guys are. It's....absolutely amazing."

"Well Ari."

"Ari?"

"My little nickname for you, you'll get used to it. I know one person who doesn't know a single thing about the sirens." She said as she pointed to Twilight.

Sunset gently motioned her that way. "Make a good first impression." I watched as Aria went and began to converse with Canterlot High's Twilight as if she was never a siren in the place. letting out a slight chuckle of happiness, i returned to the car and began unloading presents. The night went on and everything was great. We ate, we sung, and eventually me and Aria ended up continuing our kissing session in the lobby of the animal shelter. This was about most memorable christmas ever, why? Because at the end of this christmas, I officially asked Aria out. The words that made my heart melt, "Yes."

It's been about four years since that christmas night. In those four years, not much has happened. I got a job promotion, one that pays big bucks and so I have your heart set on a humungous, and conveniently unreal, ten bedroom house. You might ask why do I plan getting and ten bedroom house. Because suddenly, every single one of the Rainbooms is talking about moving in with me ever since I told them I was looking for a bigger place to live. That's ten people, including me living in the same place. I had to make something happen. February is next month, when I plan to buy to the house but before that can happen, there's still one thing that needs to be done. "Aria." I said as I knelt down in front of the all of the people inside the restaurant. "These last four years have been magical. When I first met you, we were more than ready to leave each other's lives. I glad we never did. That christmas was worth remembering but these last four years are something that I must act upon. When I almost lost my job, you were there to give me the confidence to get back and get a promotion. When Fluttershy was sick with flu, you helped me take of her. Every little thing that's gone wrong, you've been there and I won't deny this fire building up within any longer." I removed the case from behind my back and opened it up to reveal the ring. "Will you make this make man the happiest man on the planet...and marry me?"

Without warning, she tackled me to the ground, kissing me uncontrollably and crying. "Yes yes yes!"

Forgiveness is a virtue, had I not forgave Aria, This would've never happened. There's a moral to this story I hope you noticed it.