4th Siren

Chapters

Chapter 1: The Normal Life
Chapter 2: A Puzzling Mystery
Chapter 3: Blackbird
Chapter 4: Naughty by Nature
Chapter 5: Photograph
Chapter 6: Ascendancy
Chapter 7: Opposite Retracts
Chapter 8: Down for the Count
Chapter 9: Christmas Time is Here
Chapter 10: Grave Consequences
Chapter 12: Sly for a Hippie Guy
Chapter 13: Ocean of Uncertainty
Chapter 14: A Taste of a Siren's Fruit Punch
Chapter 15: Which Witch Would Watch Which Watch
Chapter 16: An Abysmal Surprise
Chapter 17: Expect The Unexpected
Chapter 11: Air on the G String

Chapter 1: The Normal Life

Fourth Siren

"To think that you monsters can get away with such calamity practice?!" As Starswirl the Bearded stood on shattered lands, with red skies above him filled with dark clouds. Three mythical sea creatures: Adagio, Aria, and Sonata floated amidst the air towards Starswirl the bearded with looks of insolence. The sea creatures surged to the direction of Starswirl the Bearded, and cycled around him while chanting their hypnotizing vocal tunes. "I will never adore you!" Starswirl shouted, "I'm surrounded by a protective spell, you will never have me under control!"

"Give it time, old man." Adagio grinned. Sonata and Aria followed up with a seductive chuckle as they continued to cycle around him. The sirens' tune became more distinct than the last.

"You will never rule Equestria!" Starswirl's horn materialized an illuminating spark with rays of light that shot out filling an empty space, forming a black hole. It continually expanded as he exerted his magic to his full potential. "If I can't defeat you, I can at least banish you all!"

"Banish us?" Aria's one eyebrow raised with sarcasm, "An old crippled stallion like yourself with such weak magic?" supervening another seductive laugh.

"You'll regret those words..." The black hole merged in by Starswirl's magic, forming a suction of hollow space, vacuuming every debris around from where they're positioned. "Let this banishment be your lesson, and don't ever show your faces here again!" The Sirens' cycling ritual diminished in speed, transmogrifying their figures when they're being consumed by the black hole. It was whirl-pooling in motion with their combined screaming. It was lasting minute after minute as he observed the three sirens.

"Nooooo!!" right after that last short sharp cry, the black hole had dissipated completely which made Starswirl's eyes widened in awe. That scream of Nooooo!! was out of place. He had accomplished his mission of banishing the three sirens, but had hope that he hadn't banished an innocent mare during the process. Starswirl glowered at the blank space where the black hole was. He sighed in relief, "If I see you all again, you'll die before you even start."

My sisters were banished to an unknown land. With my sisterly instinct, I couldn't leave them. So I went with them. My name is Clair De Lune, my friends call me Clair, and let me tell you my story.

Present Day

HUMANAVILLE
7:34PM; SATURDAY
MY APARTMENT

"Royal Flush!"
My friend Cuddle Bug and I usually hang out every Saturday night, sometimes we stay in my apartment to study for an upcoming exam or play video games and watch movies. Tonight, we had decided to play a card game. "With the luck you have, Cuddle Bug, I can definitely see you playing at the big casino." I flung my useless deck hand on the table with a sigh of impassiveness.

"Let's not get crazy now.. But C'mon Clair, poker is all about a game of hustle. The chances of getting the right hand is just a bonus." Cuddle Bug giggled with a wink.

"Whatever... Can we just play Marvel vs. Ponies instead?" As I took the full deck of cards and shuffled it.

"So you can kick my ass again? No thanks... Two can play at that game, nice try though."

"Not my fault that you don't practice."

Cuddle Bug stuck her tongue out and tucked both her palms under her chin. "Hey babe, been meaning to ask ya'..."

"Sure?.." While tossing the cards back and forth preparing for another round of poker.

"We've been friends for a while now, and I gotta ask..." Cuddle Bug with a quizzical expression.

"What?..." I retorted.

"That gem around your neck. Where did you get it?"

I finished tossing the cards to Cuddle Bug and I, picking up my cards, spreading each single card as I inspected it, "Why do you ask?"

"Oh... ya know.... That thing ain't that noticeable..." Cuddle Bug with sarcasm.

"Trying to be smart? Well, how about you don't look at it." I responded with a little temper.

Cuddle Bug paused for a moment, she then took her hand deck of cards, "Whoa... I woke the beast..." Cuddle Bug cleared her throat.

In my increased tone, "Can we just play this game? If this is a part of your technique, you're surely doing a cheap job on it."

Cuddle Bug rolled her eyes.

It's been thousands of years since I last saw my sisters. I was rejected as their sister because Adagio thought I was different. I've tried to persuade them that we don't necessarily need to feed off negative energy, rather, we can just do something different, something good rather than evil. Adagio begged to differ. Adagio had once said that it's natural for us creatures to feed off negative energy, making every little pathetic subjects adore us. But why does she have to choose that path? What good can come from it? That question made Adagio very angry which they all left me alone in despair. Adagio made a point that we are sirens. We're born to be the beauty of savages, to destroy, and to conquer. That being said, look at where it got us. But I have to say, I'm happy where it got me, at least. I can still hear Adagio's words echoing in my head: Clair, you're a waste of space, you're a coward, you're weak...

"Your go, Clair... I got a full house!" Cuddle Bug laid her card hand down ostentatiously followed by her poor performance of beat-boxing.

"Four of a kind." I tossed my cards face up with my eyebrow raised and a grin, "Not bad, eh?"

"Pffff... eh?... Trying to sound like a Canadian? Well, this game ain't aboot you, so don't be..."

I waved my hand to stop her sentence, "Please don't.. I beg of ya'.." Followed by my bark of laughter, "Anyway... I need more tea.."

Cuddle Bug smiled widely, "While you're at it, give me one too!"

I lowered my eyebrows, then she glanced back at me with puppy eyes, I groaned, "Fine..."

"Thankies!"

I briskly took my teacup from the dining table, then walked towards my kitchen to brew some more tea. I scrutinized through my tea box realizing that it's empty, I sighed in slight disappointment, "We're out of tea..."

"Aww!" Cuddle Bug pouted.

"Goodness grief Cuddle Bug, I'm gonna buy some more.."

"Can I come with you?"

"Cuddle Bug... It's going to be quick.."

"...Fine... Oh!.. While you're at it, can you get some.."
"Okay, now you're just being a pain... Really.." I cut her off with words, then continued as I fixated on the shirt Cuddle Bug is wearing, "Is that my shirt?"

Cuddle Bug with a wide squee smile, "Oh, this ol' thing?... Just noticing it now after about a couple of hours wearing it?"

With my sly grin, "Whatever... I'll be quick."

"Okaay!"

HUMANAVILLE
8:32PM; SAME EVENING
SUGAR CUBE MARKET

I lied that I was going to be quick after having passed by a couple of produce that were on sale. I filled my cart with fresh vegetables, meats, and dairies. This moment made me realize how independent I turned out to be, I'm not quite sure if it's a good thing. Sis Adagio had once told us that there will be a time that we can't depend on each other forever, and that we'll have to stand up for ourselves. As of growing up in Equestria, sis Adagio had always spoiled us, but at the same time gave us the tough love that we needed. She was more like the motherly figure than a sister, she made sure our vocal chords are in good health. For every little mistakes we made, we got scolded for it, especially Sonata. Aria on the other hand, she was the resilient one, thinking she's the best out of all of us, even more so than sis Adagio herself. I don't think it matters anymore, it's been thousands of years since we were banished to this beautiful world having lost contact with my sisters.

"Your total comes out to be thirty five dollars, sweetie." A lady employee at the check-out prompted the total on the cashier screen.

I pulled out my credit card, but stopped to notice a musical tune from afar outside of the store, followed by a big flash of rainbow colors dispersed from the area of sight which left me in a quizzical state.

"What was that?" I questioned.

The employee looked at the direction of where I was leering outside of the store window, "Oh, from the words on the street, Canterlot High School is having this concert... Something called Battle of the Bands..."

"Hm.." With my puzzlement expression. As I got done swiping my credit card in the card reader, I took my bag of groceries and exited out of the store.

"Thanks for shopping, have a great day!" The employee waved at me.

"Thanks.." I replied.

I haven't seen anything like it. In my inquiring mind, they were fireworks, but not even the most famous firework can spark immensely like that through the dark night sky. It must have been quite an event to pull off something like that.

HUMANAVILLE
9:01PM; SAME EVENING
MY APARTMENT

I opened my apartment door anticipating Cuddle Bug's reaction on my late arrival, I was slightly stumped to see my place dimly lit with a single night light plugged on the wall, adjacent to where Cuddle Bug laid to rest on my love seat for the night, covered with my favorite blanket. "What could she possibly have done to work herself out to this point?.." I thought to myself, "It's only 9 o' clock.." Nevertheless, I had situated my groceries by the kitchen, and began placing them inside the top cabinet and in the fridge. What would Adagio think what I've been doing with my life this whole time? A thousand year old siren as myself trapped in a seventeen year old human body living a normal life, having suppressed from my real reason of my goal, well, it's more so Sis Adagio's goal. Sure, I did hunger for Equestrian magic, but I think it's no different from smoking a cigarette. I don't need it. The gem around my neck looks all frayed and eroded, it has turned dark in coloration due to lack of power activity. The reason why I still wear it is because it's my only keepsake to remind me of my sisters. I like to think that wearing it gives me the courage, strength, and the love that I need.

HUMANAVILLE
8:06AM; FOLLOWING DAY
MY APARTMENT

*Birds Chirping*

The sun has risen, noticing vivid light that shun through my blinds of my own room window. I remain on my bed covered in my second favorite blanket. It took awhile for my blurry vision to sharpen. As I altered my position for comfort, turning my body slightly, seeing Cuddle Bug sleeping right beside me with her mouth gaped open and saliva dripping down the side of her mouth. With my act of suddenness, I yelped.

"Cuddle Bug! What the hell?!"

Cuddle Bug moaned in wakefulness, "What... Goodness... Go back to sleep, it's still early... Geez.."

"I will if you get the hell out of my bed!"

"Stop being so mean.." Cuddle Bug replied in a low voice.

With a moment of pause, "Oh, I'm the mean one? This is coming from someone who borrowed my shirt, my favorite blanket..." With my single eye brow raised, I fixated on the upper part of her body, "... And now you're wearing my PJs!"

Since that moment, I wasn't able to go back to sleep. I may as well start the day while it's young, and leave Cuddle Bug to rest in her eternal slumber. The things I do for love.

Chapter 2: A Puzzling Mystery

HUMANAVILLE
11:32AM; TUESDAY
HUMANAVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

It's my lunch hour, sitting with another friend. As rowdy as it can get at this some-what populated cafeteria, I don't know how Moon Dancer can tolerate all the noise studying at this time of the hour. Given that it's Taco-Tuesday, taco is exactly what I'm having for lunch.

"You know Moon Dancer, I have never saw you eat, like ever.." As taking a bite of my taco.

"Shhhhh... I'm studying..."

"Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't hear that because of all the noise..." I giggled.

Moon Dancer rolled her eyes then continued to focus on her opened text books. I continued with words, "You seem all more engrossed than usual, what's the occasion?"

"I have an exam tonight at nine, and I forgot to study."

"Ummm, that's unlikely of you... Besides, what kind of exam is it that you gotta take it at nine tonight?"

"Oh I'm sorry, it's not like I'm a student of advanced placement, and it's not like I had to study for eight upcoming exams for the last couple of days, having gotten less time with this particular one." Moon Dancer re-positioned her glasses.

"I tell you what, come over my place, we can help you."

"We?"

"Well, just me. Cuddle Bug won't know half the things anyway."

"No thanks, I do best when I study alone... You know that.."

I looked down with a sly grin, "Well that's too bad, cause I'm making homemade mac and cheese tonight..."

Moon Dancer suddenly paused between writing her notes when I mentioned about cooking her favorite food. She pursed her lips with a straight face as a sign of protest to not lure her in with temptation, "Clair... Can't you just cook something else?"

"Sorry, No can do, I've planned on making it tonight. Well, with you not being there, it seems like all that food will just go in Cuddle Bug's..."

"Alright fine!" She halted me with words, "I'll come over... But you gotta let me study first. Video games are not an option either..."

I smiled brightly, "Sounds like a plan!"

Moon Dancer is the smartest student in Humanaville High School, a complete book-worm. She was the first person I met when I stepped in this school, freshman year, and she introduced me to Cuddle Bug. Moon Dancer is very quick-witted, always passionate in her own ways and yet very caring when it comes to friendship. We became faithful friends ever since. We're seniors now, so she's more occupied in her school work and looking for colleges to apply for. On the contrary, Moon Dancer goes all out on weekends when I have other friends over. When I say that, I mean she knows how to have fun, with all the built up stress, it's natural to release a lot of the steam, but Moon Dancer is really something else, and that goes without saying she gets drunk in those days. I can only imagine.

"Ummm, Clair?" Moon Dancer re-positioned her glasses, lowered her eyebrows and focused on my gem around my neck, "Your gem necklace.."

I couldn't hear because of the loud crowded noise in the lunch room, which prompted me to make her repeat, "What?"

"I said your necklace! Look at your necklace!"

I looked down on my own gem, my eyes widened in awe. I was in a state of puzzlement to see my gem illuminating. It lasted for about five seconds right after Moon Dancer noticed it, "What the?..." I held my own gem and inspected it.

Moon Dancer placed both of her palms on her face, "Clair, please tell me I'm not seeing weird things, please tell me I'm not over stressed because of school!" Moon Dancer perturbed, thinking that she was experiencing visionary hallucinations due to being over stressed with school and such.

"No, Moon Dancer... I saw it too..."

"Really... But how is that possible?"

"I... I don't know.."

"Clair, that thing gives me the creeps, I think you should get rid of that thing."

"NO!" The noise in the lunch room turned silent. Completely dead except for an ambient of noise from outside the lunch room window, and everyone's eyes were on me. I looked around everyone with a grimace with words in a low voice, "..Sorry.."

A random guy from the crowd in a distance raised his voice towards me, "Hey! Can you keep it down there?! We're trying to have an enjoyable lunch here!"

It was another productive Tuesday at school, except for lunch time. I rode my bicycle home with Cuddle Bug, then we split ways at a certain street and I explained to her why Moon Dancer will be in my apartment tonight and that she should come over as well. My thoughts reverted back to my own gem. Through my inquiring mind, I can't seem to figure out how my gem illuminated like it did, It's not like I sang and tainted it with negative energy. My thought process maintained my legs in autopilot, continuously bicycling through the path of the street which made me crash onto another cyclist. I was on the ground, but he was able to recover on two feet a bit faster than I. He reached out his hand to help me, "WHoaaa... Are you okay miss? I'm very sorry..."

I shook my head to cure my slight vertigo from the minor trauma, then I looked up at him. He had long green dreadlocks and a flat cap, "Uhh, Yeah, I mean.. No... I should be the one apologizing, I don't know what I was thinking.."

"Hey, accidents happen, miss." I reached out for his hand, and he helped me up. We both dusted off remnants of dirt from our clothes from the fall.

"Well, thanks for helping me up." I said.

"No problem there." He looked at me trying to familiarize my face, "Say... Have I seen you somewhere before?"

"No, I don't think so... I go to Humanaville."

"Oh right on! I have some friends who goes to Humanaville. I go to Canterlot."

"Oh ok.."

"I swear you look so familiar, miss, are you not related to those three chicks who sang in our school?" I began to close in towards him with my quizzical squint, nodding along to have him continue with words, "From your looks, I think it's ringing some bells, right?"

"Well, I don't know. How do they look like?" I questioned.

"Well, one had a bushy hair style, another girl had a single pony-tail, and the third one had a double pony-tail."

I would like to assume that it's them, but I can't jump to conclusion unless I get some evidence, for all I know they can be some random singers who performed in a talent show. But still, my mind keeps reverting back to my gem. Did something happened to them or is this an adverse effect of some sort? Is it fate that I happen to crash into someone who might think that they're related to me?

"I'm sorry miss, you haven't spoke in two minutes, is everything... Okay?"

I snapped back into reality, "Oh! I'm sorry, I uhh gotta go..."

I hastily picked up my bike, and swiftly bicycled through my direction of the path. As the guy diminished in sight, his last words in a loud voice from a distance, "Ok! My name is Sandal Wood by the way, nice to meet you, hopefully I can get your name when we bump into each other again!"

Chapter 3: Blackbird

HUMANAVILLE
4:26PM; WEDNESDAY
HUMANAVILLE HIGH SCHOOL (AFTER HOURS)

"♫Nah to the Ah to the No, No, No

I'm feeling untouchable, untouchable

I'm feeling...♫"

"Oooook! That was great, Cuddle Bug! Would you care to tell us who composed it?" Miss Clever Trust interrupted.

Cuddle Bug in a cheerful tone, "Meghan Trainor!"

Miss Clever Trust with a blank expression, "... Next time, we'll just have 'Her' sing it.."

Awkwardness dwelled in this choir class of fifteen students, while some other delinquent students barked out with giggles. Every first of the month, Miss Clever Trust has us compose or sing a cover song of our choice as a part of the class curriculum. For this reason, I always hid my gem necklace in my locker whenever I come here, because the last thing I want to do is put everyone in mind derp for eternity. Creepy.

Miss Clever Trust in a cheerful tone, "Alright, well who's next on the line to sing a song?" She walked towards her music stand to obtain her single paper list of students' names that are in alphabetical order, she skimmed through it, she murmured in a low voice, leering over to Daisy's direction with exasperation, "Oh great... Daisy is next.." with heavy sigh. Daisy smiled brightly in excitement and couldn't wait to sing the song that she had composed by the mention of her name, but Miss Clever Trust waved her off, "Sit down. I wasn't calling you..."

Daisy frowned, "But miss I heard you called..."

Miss Clever Trust intercepted, "Oh c'mon, I didn't mean you..." Daisy blushed in humiliation, and sat back down on her seat.

Three months of me being in this class, it's safe to say that Miss Clever Trust is a bitch. At least Cuddle Bug doesn't think so. I've heard students who studied under her, became famous pop singers which I find it hard to believe. There's no denying that her style of teaching is so rancid. Adagio would've scolded her right from the get-go. It reminded me of my newly beginnings of my vocal training with my sisters:

890,000 years ago in Equestria

The four of us young sirens gathered around the coral reefs under the sea of Equestria. Adagio had very strict rules when it's time for vocal practicing. She even made sure our stances are accurate so the accent of our harmonizing sounds would sound perfectly tuned. Adagio being the oldest, the strongest, and the critical thinker of us all, it was natural for her to lead us.

♫ Ways of devotion turn to obsession open your eyes ♫

Adagio halted us, "No, no girls.. The pitch changes as soon as you get to the middle of that part, like this:
♫ Ways of devotion turn to obsession ♫ got it girls? As soon as the word 'obsession' comes, the pitch change occurs at --ssionnnn.. Obsessionnn." Adagio glared at Sonata, "Especially you Sonata Dusk, you're really jagging my nerves..."

Sonata with her sly smile, "Oh.. Sorry Dagi.."

"Don't call me that."

"Oops.. I mean, sister Adagio."

Adagio inhaled briefly, "Ok girls, from the top!"

We forged on with our vocal practice over and over until we were perfect, when I say perfect, I mean Adagio-perfect. I made sure every note I hit was in range, because the last thing I want to happen, is have my ear bitten off by Adagio.

"NOO!!"

We all paused to Adagio's grinding halt. She eyeballed at me and approached close.

*Slap*

She swayed her hoof across my muzzle which made me yelp.

Adagio with infuriation, "Hit that note one more time, I swear, it will be more than just a slap, got it?!"

I sniffled, "Ye...Yes sister Adagio Dazzle..."

Adagio's expression of infuriation turned into a smirk, "Good."

Adagio turned to Aria with a sullen expression as she heard her chuckle, "Aria, you're not perfect either. Keep this up and you'll be next." Aria disdainfully groaned and looked away.

Adagio observed us all and initiated an announcement, "Do not forget who you are. Singing is your main weapon. Without it, you are useless. Your ways to survive is feeding off negative energy. The gem ingrained on your chests are your main source of your power. So you sing. You sing until your power is absolute. You possess, you control, and soon you will rule all of Equestria." Adagio approached Sonata and held her chin groove up, "Am I clear?"

"Yes"

"Good."

"Is this your plan, sister Adagio? To sing?" Aria questioned.

Adagio turned to Aria with an intimidating look. Her gawk made Aria wish that she had never questioned. She gulped her saliva.

"You will soon see."

Sonata and I knew better that it was not in our place to question Adagio, nor were we allowed to share our conception of her plan. It was her plan or nothing at all.

"Clair De Lune!" I snapped back to reality by the calling of my name. I glanced at Miss Clever Trust. "Clair De lune... Well, I hope your singing can live up to the standards of your own name." She chuckled, "I'm kiddin' hun... But really..."

I knew she was going to say something fresh, I did nothing, but rolled my eyes. I held my guitar case up, then positioned it on my desk. I unlatched the case to unveil my acoustic guitar. One student prompted with words in a loud tone, "Oh hey! I can play guitar too! I know how to jam and finger 'A' Minor!" The small crowd barked out of dull laughter. I ignored the jerk, carried on to sit on a high stool in front of the class, ready to sing one of my favorite song composed by The Beatles: Blackbird.

A moment of silence filled the air, I was worried that my singing may have transmitted an enchanting spell in their minds. I stepped down from the high stool, then advanced towards my seat, unintentionally tripping over someone's foot in the process. I fell down on prone position causing the guitar strap to detach from my shoulder. My guitar fell over on an edge of another student's desk. I perked up then hastily inspected my guitar, a sizable crack is noticeable across the base. Half of the students in the class laughed hysterically. I glanced back at my teacher to observe her reaction, she was biting her bottom lip to restrain from laughing. A poor example of a music teacher she is, she's such a vulgar person. Cuddle Bug approached me with arm in arm. She helped me carry my guitar, and sulked towards the exit of the choir class room.

HUMANAVILLE
6:03PM; SAME DAY
MY APARTMENT

While Cuddle Bug is playing a game of Marvel vs. Ponies in the living room, I sat at my dining table with legs crossed where my acoustic guitar is laid. I sigh every time I look at it. How could I be so careless? It's a hand-made acoustic guitar given to me as a gift, knowing that I can never get it repaired, brings me down in the dumps.

Cuddle Bug initiated the conversation, "Could you not be butt-hurt with what happened today and just come over here and play with me, you're no fun when you're like this."

I sighed, "You're not helping..."

"Clair, you can just buy another guitar, what's the big deal?"

"I just can't buy any guitar, CB, this guitar was actually custom-made."

"Well... Ohhh, I got an idea! How about we make one!"

I swung around to face Cuddle Bug with a sarcastic smile, "I wonder what goes through your head sometimes."

"YOU WIN!"

"Yes! Did you see that?! I beat the boss, I beat Sombra, did you see that?!" As Cuddle Bug ascended from the living room couch, pointing at the TV screen.

I shook my head and smiled. There were times our conversations like this never made sense, but there was no harm in it, it was actually comforting and therapeutic. "Yeah." I said in a standard tone, "I'm going to take a walk outside for a bit."

Cuddle Bug paused her game, "Want me to come with you?"

"Nah, Moon Dancer is coming over. So be here when she gets here."

"Alright." Cuddle Bug resumed playing her game.

I grabbed my hooded coat from my coat hanger, slipped on my flip flops and left.

HUMANAVILLE
7:35PM; SAME EVENING
SUGAR CUBE CORNER

After a quick walk, I made an unplanned stroll to Sugar Cube Corner. I texted Cuddle Bug if she and Moon Dancer wanted anything from the bakery. Moon Dancer didn't care, but Cuddle Bug craved for a strawberry cake, as expected from Cuddle Bug. She owes me so much it's not even funny. As I made my entrance to this lowly-populated bakery, an immediate scent of freshly baked pastries dispersed through my sinuses. It was heavenly. I approached behind the pastry glass to examine the delicious baked goods. The lady at the front desk offered her assistance, "Hi there, how may I help you?"

"Yes, I would like to order three of your croissants and a strawberry cake please."

"Sure, coming right up."

The lady began unfolding the cake box container, and pulled a medium-size brown white paper bag for the croissants.

As I waited, there were two girls sitting at a booth by the window, whispering loudly, vaguely enough for me to understand. One girl had highlights of yellow and red, resembling a bacon, and the other one had a long pink and purple hair, and had a purple complexion. I slyly leered over to their direction and quickly turned back the opposite way hoping they didn't notice. But they did. In my peripheral vision, both of the girls stood up and walked towards me. The girl with a long pink and purple hair initiated with words, "You're one of the sirens, aren't you." She folded her arms, "I know what that gem can do to people, don't think you can get away with it."

I startled in words, "I... How do you know about my gem?"

The girl with bacon hair replied in a strong tone, "We know all about your curse... Who are you?"

I took a couple of steps back, as they got closer to my boundary. I held my gem around my neck to protect it, "I am... I'm just a normal girl who came in here to buy baked goods for me and my friends, that's all..."

"Cut the shit, we're not stupid, ya know... ... WHO ARE YOU!?"

I fear these girls are trying to stir trouble in this bakery for my gem, I couldn't step back anymore, I was trapped and helpless.

"Sunset!, Twilight!" The lady at the front desk yelled, "Leave her be, she is my customer!"

Sunset and Twilight took a couple of steps back to give me space for the sake of the lady's words.

"I'm sorry honey, here you go, that'll be twenty-three dollars and sixty cents." The lady prompted at the cashier screen while placing a large bag filled with a boxed cake and croissants on top of the front desk. I unzipped my purse, unveiling my debit card to hand over to the lady. On the other hand, Twilight and Sunset remain with their furious expression. How do they both know that I'm one of the sirens? Too much is changing. First my questionable shimmering gem, bumping onto someone who may know my sisters, and two random girls ruminating about my past. Perhaps taking a quick walk was a bad idea, I should've just stayed home.

"Thank You!" The lady ripped out the receipt that fed through the printer, then handed me both my debit card and receipt. I grab a hold of the medium-sized bag, I walked with slight apprehension as they both watched me walk towards the exit. Twilight in a standardized tone, "We're not really bad people, ya know... We should get together sometime."

Before I made my exit, I glanced at them with a low voice, "... You don't even know me."

"Yeah.. I don't think that's a good idea, Twilight." Sunset with a keen response.

"No, I mean it. She doesn't seem like the other sirens we defeated in the battle of the bands." She turned to Sunset, "Maybe she's the nice one.."

As I was about to exit, I couldn't help but overhear about the mentioning of the sirens being defeated in the battle of the bands, "Wait. What are you talking about?"

Twilight with an innocent smile, "Like I said, we can talk more if we meet up here again tomorrow, same time."

"How could I trust you?.."

"What have you got to lose?"

I paused to think, ".. .. .. I gotta go, my friends are waiting for the cake." I finally exited through the chimed door of the bakery.

I huffed and puffed running through the back roads and taking a couple of short cut turns, wishing that I should've brought my bike in this brief moment. Spoiling the cake, warm croissants being smooshed altogether are the least of my worries. I just wanted to go home.

Author's Note

Thanks for supporting my story. I plan on finishing it, and it's going to be a wonderful, long story. Stay tuned for more chapters.

Chapter 4: Naughty by Nature

HUMANAVILLE
3:23AM; THURSDAY
MY APARTMENT

I was wide awake in deep thought at this time of the night, plopped on a chair in front of the dining table sipping on my chamomile tea. If I don't sleep now, I'll end up being cranky all afternoon. If I don't sleep at all, I'd be a caffeine whore through out the entire day. The mess on the dining table is inexcusable. It is filled with Moon Dancer's and Cuddle Bug's half-eaten cakes and tiny pieces of croissants, or at least what's left of them. Due to my negligence of cleaning the table, my mind kept reverting back to those two strangers at the bakery. How can they know so much, let alone what my gem can do to people? Maybe it's a set up. My sisters might have sent two girls on a mission to hunt me down, and it's just a matter of time of what can happen next. The calm before the storm. But like what that Twilight person had said. What have I got to lose. I can't sleep now. This moment made me revisit my past:

764,000 years ago in Equestria

It was a gusty afternoon, and the blazed sun scorching through the clouds in the sky. It was right after the day of the great dragon migration. My three sisters and I settled on a very large rock in the middle of the strong current of the deep blue sea, about two-hundred miles away from Saddle Arabia. It was our very first mission, our true first test as a siren. Adagio positioned herself in a degree where she's facing the three of us. Adagio with a mischievous grin, "Sisters! To this day we hunger for magic. The gem in your chest calls out for you. Show the weaklings the truest power of the siren, and let them fear the almighty goddess within your voice." Adagio approached me, "Are you ready?"

I insidiously smiled with a huff of laughter, "I'm as ready as I'll ever be."

Adagio placed her hoof under my chin groove with a grin, "That's my sister."

Adagio's body swayed amidst the air from where she positioned with encouraging words to us all, "Lets move!"

The large rock from where we sat, collapsed into bits and pieces as we sprinted in mid air towards Saddle Arabia in unimaginable speed. Adagio was ahead of us. We were going at about eight-hundred miles per hour which only took us fifteen minutes to arrive to our destination.

We arrived at the nearest shore of Saddle Arabia to shake up a traditional celebration of ponies dancing, eating, and just having a good time. They were struck with terror just as they saw us four mysterious creatures floating above them with dreadful grins. The Arabian ponies trembled in fear as Adagio let out words in a terrifying tone, "Adore us!" Adagio vocalized a beautiful note, sending sound-waves to her area of sight, then Sonata and Aria followed after in harmonic tunes. I observed the helpless ponies succumbing to my sisters' aberrant rapture, one after another. I held myself back in apprehension, as I sensed a sudden change within the ponies' behavior by the influence of my sisters' powers: From joyousness to rage. I slowly watched them evolved into something different right before my eyes. They all turned onto one another with acts of violence, and it was affecting me greatly. "Clair! What are you waiting for?! Use your power now!" Aria shouted. I was pressured by Adagio and Aria. They glared at me to make sure that I unleash my true power. Sonata expressed her sympathy towards me that if I don't do what they tell me, Adagio would punish me for who knows how long. Nevertheless, after a moment of my short contemplation, I slowly gathered my intellect, then forced out a sustaining high note from my own vocal chords, sending sound-waves over the unaffected ponies. I couldn't bear to watch them being tormented, so I closed my eyes.

*Facebook Message notification pop sound*

My flashback of thought vanished. Often times I have the habit of recollecting my thought. It was a long time ago, but to this day, it was something that I will never forgive myself for.

I picked up my phone to check my facebook message, it was just a random user from a buy and sell local group, selling a useless table for twenty dollars. It is now 4 o'clock in the morning. I should at least try to get a little bit of sleep, because the last thing I want to hear from Cuddle Bug is "C'mon Clair, you have the energy of a ninety-year old woman." or Moon Dancer advising me to get professional help from a psychiatrist.

I ascended from the chair and walked towards my bedroom. As I got halfway to my bedroom door, I instantly begin to feel weak. I hobbled, struggled to stay on two feet, before I realize it, my body ended up on the floor. The air felt really heavy and I developed an increase of hearing sensitivity. I can literally hear the environmental noises miles away through out Humanaville.

My gem mysteriously levitated right before my blurry eyes, shining radiantly. In my current state, I'm unsure if I'm detached from reality. But I do hear an echoing of words repeating in pattern:

"What have you got to lose?"
"You can just buy another guitar, what's the big deal?"
"Your necklace, look at your necklace."
"My name is Sandal Wood by the way, nice to meet you."

Until I heard the last echo of words, "Go to sleep, my child..." my sight slowly faded into black, the repetitive of words finally disappeared, and my sense of hearing became normal again.

HUMANAVILLE
9:33AM; FOLLOWING MORNING, FRIDAY
MY APARTMENT

*Cell phone rings*

I woke up to my last cell phone ring before it went to voicemail and found myself lying on the floor. I sat up and wiped the drool off my face, then picked up my phone to check. I gasped to see the current time, and the amount of missed phone calls, voice mails, and text messages I received from Cuddle Bug and Moon Dancer. I hastily perked up from the floor, and made my way to the bathroom to brush my teeth and have a quick shower as well.

HUMANAVILLE
10:05AM; SAME MORNING, FRIDAY
HUMANAVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

Although I didn't make it to my first and second period, I was able to get to the beginning of my third. Cuddle Bug and Moon Dancer are in my same class. I couldn't think of a reason to tell them why I wasn't able to answer their calls and why I have arrived so late through out the day.

"Oh em gee, Clair!" Cuddle Bug's reaction was so predictable. No doubt that she was very happy to see me. She closed in a tight hug, so tight that both of my feet ascended a couple of inches off the ground, which made one of my flip flops slip off my barefoot.

I was trying to grasp for air, "CB, let me go, you're literally squeezing the life out of me..."

"Oh... Sorry, hehe."

As she put me back down from her bear hug, Moon Dancer looked bothered. She approached me and Cuddle Bug with arms folded, "Clair, where the hell were you?"

If I told them the real reason of my tardiness, our friendship will never be the same. I didn't want to risk it. "Well uhh..." I stammered in speech.

"It's her time of the month!" Cuddle Bug said loudly.

The class of eighteen students looked to our direction in complete deadpan. Who would've thought that Cuddle Bug would be the one to place me in such an embarrassing position. She jumped to that assumption wrongly. I lowered my eyebrows to Cuddle Bug, "CB... I'm really going to kill you.." Moon Dancer's frown slowly turned into smile.

Moon Dancer chuckled, "You girls are really something else."

*Bell Rings*

"Okay everyone, lets all be seated, third period has begun."

Cuddle Bug, me, and Moon Dancer sat next to each other respectively. Even though the teacher had announced us to sit down, there were still some teenage boys who didn't obey. One of them approached us, "Hey girls, we're having a party tonight at seven, thought you girls might want to come."

I raised my eyebrow at Cuddle Bug, then Moon Dancer. Moon Dancer replied, "Sorry, but I need to study..."

"Um, ok, Well how about you two girls."

I replied, "Well... Tonight I gotta meet up with..."
"I'll go!" Cuddle Bug cut me off with words.

I turned to Cuddle Bug, looking confused, "Wait, what?.. No! You're not going..."

"Oh yes I am!"

The teenage boy in a delightful tone, "Cool! It's going to be at Autumn Leaf's house, like I said, it's tonight at seven." He handed a business card to Cuddle Bug with Autumn Leaf's address on it, "There's going to be booze, food, and a swimming pool. Make sure not to forget your bathing suit. It's going to be a lot of fun. Hopefully you can persuade your two friends here." He winked, and walked back to his seat. Moon Dancer and I looked at Cuddle Bug blankly.

Cuddle Bug questioned innocently, "What?"

"I swear, I have not met anybody in this world stupider than you are."

"More stupid.." Moon Dancer quickly corrected me.

"Oh! Shut up, whose side are you on?!"

Moon Dancer covered her mouth and giggled.

Before I continued to explain to Cuddle Bug about her decision, I turned to take another glance at Moon Dancer, "Hey! I've been looking all over for that shirt, you had it this whole time?!"

"Hey! How would you know, we both could have the same shirt, can't just assume things.."

"That's my shirt! and you know it is! wanna know how I know?.. There's a noticeable rip on that sleeve!"

Cuddle Bug joined in, "... You girls really need new clothes..."

Moon Dancer and I looked at Cuddle Bug furiously, and she did nothing but toss back a squee smile.

HUMANAVILLE
4:01PM; SAME DAY, FRIDAY
MY APARTMENT

I sat on my own living room couch to a random tv show running in the background as I took another examine of my broken guitar. I shook my head knowing that it's something that I can't repair myself, and that I would have to take it to a music shop. Perhaps I'll take it early tomorrow morning to have it repaired. I can only imagine the cost of the repair. In words of Cuddle Bug, might as well just buy another guitar. After spending hours of cramming in my thought about tonight's plan, something tells me that I should take a quick walk to Sugar Cube Corner to meet up with Twilight and Sunset. They may probably know the reason behind my nights of unexplained events.

You ready for this?... James... You.. are not the father! I contorted at the tv show currently on and can't help how ridiculous these staged shows are. I huffed out of laughter.

HUMANAVILLE
6:05PM; SAME EVENING, FRIDAY
OUTSIDE OF SUGARCUBE CORNER

It was a quaint but breezy evening as I arrived just outside of Sugar Cube Corner. I peeked through the window, neither Sunset or Twilight were inside. I wonder if they forgot all about it, or may have better things to do than to be involved with me and my sisters. As I turned the opposite direction, I then see Twilight and Sunset with their book bags approaching from a short distance away. Twilight let out a grin with words in a loud tone, "Hey! We knew you'd come!"

I waved at them with a tremulous smile, "Uhh, hey there!"

Sunset remained silent with a straight face. I can already sense Sunset disapproving my existence. Twilight, on the other hand, was completely the opposite.

As they finally approached the entrance door of the bakery, Twilight smiled, "We never got your name.."

I responded with a single nod, "Clair.. Clair De Lune..."

"What a nice name, Pleasure to meet you."

I nodded with uncertainty. I didn't know why, but I felt really nervous. Nevertheless, Twilight held the door for me and Sunset, "Lets go in, I'm hungry." The three of us entered.

The lady at the front waved at the three of us, "Hey girls!.. Ooh.. I see you girls made a new friend!"

"Hello." I smiled and waved back.

"Yeah, Sunset and I felt bad that we bashed onto her the other day, and thought we would like to get to know her." Twilight with a grin, "Mrs. Cake, can we get the usual? Three orders please."

"Coming right up!"

"Thank You!"

Mrs. Cake brewed some fresh green tea, and began preparing green tea mochis for the three of us on a tray.

Twilight led the way towards a booth next to a window for a good view of the outside. I sat across both Twilight and Sunset. Twilight reinitialized a conversation, "So you came back to see us. There's something bothering you.."

I folded my hands on the table, and sighed, "Well... There are so many things going through my head, I don't know where to begin."

"Lets first cover the basis about your gem. It looks familiar. We knew some girls who have the same kind of gem that you have."

"I know..." I quickly retorted.

"You know?..."

"What, you didn't think I'd know that by now?"

"What I mean is.. You don't seem like the rest of them, you.."

I cut her off with words, "Stop... I know where this is going..."

A moment of pause filled between us, then Sunset stroked a response, "Well... Are you like them?? Give us a good reason why we shouldn't kick your ass right here.. Right now..."

Twilight intercepted, "Sunset, you gotta calm down... Lets give her a chance to explain..."

I stopped for a moment, then continued, "There's nothing for me to explain, you guys wouldn't understand anyway.." I stood up from my side of the booth, "If you excuse me, I have a party to tend to.."

"What if we told you that we're actually Equestrians?" Twilight followed up with a wide grin.

With my one eyebrow raised, I placed both my hands on my hips, "What?.. Impossible..."

"How else would we know all about you, the three girls, and the gems.."

I became infuriated with Twilight thinking she knew more than I do, "You don't know anything about me and my sisters!"

"Sisters?!" Twilight and Sunset were shocked by the discovery of us being siblings.

I banged my fists on the table with a strong tone, "Adagio, Aria, and Sonata. The three known sirens that fed off negative energy so that they can control the minds of the weak. I was one of the four siren sisters, but they never accepted me because I was so different!"

"Clair, you're not like them, you are a good person."

Mrs. Cake awkwardly came to our table to place down our orders, "Sorry girls, but could you please keep it down, you're scaring some customers."

"I'm sorry... I have to leave." I rummaged in my pocket to pull out a ten dollar bill, and tossed it on the table, "I got important things to tend to."

Sunset with a smart remark, "Yeah.. a party..."

I didn't think it was worth the effort to be angry anymore, so I then rolled my eyes at her, and left the booth. I turned around one more time before leaving the bakery to ask a raising question, "Oh.. Where are my sisters anyway?.."

They both cluelessly shrugged. Twilight replied, "You should stay here and talk to us. I think this is more important than a party." Twilight stood up from her side of the booth, "We can help you with your problem, Clair... But not if you run away..."

I seem to ponder to the matter. Part of me suspects that I shouldn't trust them, "I'll get back to you on that, bye.." I advanced towards the bakery exit and left.

Sunset with a brittle laugh towards Twilight, she took a bite of her mochi, "I told you she's a bitch."

HUMANAVILLE
7:54PM; SAME EVENING, FRIDAY
AUTUMN LEAF'S HOUSE

As I bicycled through the neighborhood, noticing only one house filled with vivid lights and crowded teenagers. I finally arrived at Autumn Leaf's bachelor pad. I pulled in on a curb of the sidewalk to park my bicycle on a lamp post, locking it with a secure combination lock. It is indeed a shady party. As I look to my right, there was a random couple making out on top of a car. As I look to my left, I see a couple of bullies giving one nerd a wedgie. This place is a mess. As I advanced towards the entrance of Autumn Leaf's house, it was filled with people. I looked around the vicinity of this spacious house, overseeing a beer pong game currently going on in another room from where I stood.

"Clair!"

I turned to a familiar voice calling out my name, and saw Cuddle Bug with a plastic cup of beer, approaching me from the kitchen.

"You came!" She pulled me in a hug, but I had to push her away gently because she reeked with alcohol odor.

"Whoa CB... and yes I did, but you gotta go easy on that alcohol, girl."

"What? This is my first cup!"

I raised a single eyebrow, "Really now.."

Cuddle Bug nodded with a smile, "Come sit down!" She took my hand, led me to a vacant couch, and we sat together.

"So, what made you change your mind?" Cuddle Bug questioned as she took a sip of her beer.

"Oh it's a long story..."

"Here, lemme get you something to drink."

"Ok, but I don't drink alcohol, CB, You know that.."

"Duhh! That's why I'm getting you rootbeer, hehe!"

Cuddle Bug ascended from her side of the couch and walked towards the kitchen. I remain seated on the couch with legs crossed, waited for Cuddle Bug to return with my drink. I looked around and waved at some familiar faces. Perhaps coming to the party wasn't a bad idea after all. It was another good way to release some steam, especially after my meeting with Twilight and Sunset.

"Hey, didn't expect you to be here."

I turned to the voice that was directed at me, surprised to see the guy that I crashed into a couple of days ago, also came to this party.

"Oh! Didn't expect you either, ummm, Sandal Wood, was it?"

"Yeahh! Surprised you remember my name, I never caught your name, miss."

"Oh, it's Clair."

Sandal Wood sat next to me and reached his hand out for a handshake, "Nice to meet you Clair, beautiful name, but for some reason it reminds me of eclairs." Sandal Wood with short laughter.

I wasn't sure if that was some sort of a pick-up line or what, but still made me blush, "Thanks, nice meeting you too." I smiled and shook his hand.

I purposely cleared my throat, "So, how did you know about this party?"

"Oh, I have a friend who goes to Humanaville. He invited me over, so I said why not, it's Friday anyway."

"Oh.. Yeah same here, I had quite a day..."

Cuddle Bug came out of the kitchen with two drinks. As she was about to return to her seat, she realized a stranger is now sitting next to me. Cuddle Bug hid behind a wall to eavesdrop, and slyly grinned.

"Whoa! That's awesome! how long have you been playing guitar?"

"A very long time. Lets just say I started when I was really really young." I cutely chuckled.

"You must be very talented. Would love to hear you play sometime."

I smiled brightly at him with a nod, "Yeah... I would love that.."

"Hey listen, I gotta go..."

"So soon?"

"Well, actually I was here quite awhile, I had to help set up chairs outside and some other stuff."

"Oh, alright."

Sandal wood with a shy grin, "Hey ummm, I was thinking that maybe we can hang out sometime... Perhaps, could I get your number?"

"Of course."

"Awesome!" Sandal Wood took his cell phone out, and dialed down the numbers that I dictated to him. After he saved my number, he shot me a text message so that I can save his number as well.

"Sweet, I'll give you a call sometime." Sandal Wood delightedly smiled.

"Yeah..." I blushed.

"Well, talk to you later, and remember to look both ways before bicycling." Sandal Wood with a joking remark.

"I can say the same for you too, silly."

We both waved a goodbye to each other, he exited the house.

Cuddle Bug then left her post, walked towards the couch and plopped on the couch next to me. She smirked, "Don't think I didn't see that."

"Oh be quiet, it was just a guy I bumped into a couple of days ago, and just so happens to be at this party, that's all."

"Oooooo, look who's trying to hide something."

I rolled my eyes, "Just.. Gimme my drink.." I swiftly grabbed the cup from her hand, and drank from it. Two seconds after realizing the bitterness taste in my palate, it was her beer that I drank, one with the alcohol. I spewed out the distasteful drink on Cuddle Bug's face instinctively. This caused some public laughter. Cuddle Bug looked at me blankly as she wiped the beer off the side of her face, "Uhh... Yeah... I totally deserve that..."

"Oh my god, CB, I'm so sorry!" I curled my lips to refrain from laughter.

Chapter 5: Photograph

HUMANAVILLE
10:03AM; SATURDAY
MY APARTMENT

I woke up to the birds chirping just outside my window, speculating the weather as I took a peek through my blinds. It was thick overcast skies. I stretched and remain lying down on my bed under the covers, staring at the ceiling. As I was contemplative about a couple of agendas that I needed to do today which includes taking my guitar to the shop, I rummaged through the drawer from my nightstand and pulled out a couple of random photographs of me and my friends. I fell into deep thought through memory lane:

764,000 years ago in Equestria

Adagio complimented us with such great work after the victory of our first test as sirens, mind controlling the poor ponies at Saddle Arabia. Adagio restricted us from singing for a week, allowing our vocal chords to rest. Sonata was just a glutton for punishment. She would always get reprimanded by Adagio as to how many times we've told her not to sing, much less to even hum a melody, during our time of rest.

After a week of rest from our triumph over the Arabian ponies, we all spent another couple of extra hours in restful slumber under the deep sea of Equestria. I remain awake during our time of rest, despondent with what happened in Saddle Arabia. I could still hear the screaming and the crying of the poor ponies. If this is the way of a siren, I can't bear witness anymore of this villainous practice. I knew best not to reason with Adagio, therefore took my risk to learn about the ponies on my own. I swam from my own area quietly, making sure I didn't wake up any of my sisters, and escaped the cave towards the surface of the open water.

I've exhausted about half an hour floating on air surveying on which direction to go, till my gem finally illuminated as an indication of a nearby pony. As I breezed through my direction from a high point, I've finally detected an object on a small island. It was a pony and he wore a brown hat. He had a strange tool that he would use to dig up soil from the ground. I approached the shore towards him in normal speed. He hadn't notice my presence until his tool made a loud beep detecting a big, pink siren right in front of him. He paused for a moment, his eyes widened, and his jaw dropped, "Oh my Celestia..." He then galloped around in circles like a helpless puppy. "Help me! Any pony out there, there's a monster on the loose that's going to eat me!"

I shushed him, "Stop, you're right in the middle of an island, I don't think anyone would hear you."

He was struck at the idea that I can talk, "Wha.. What?! You can talk?!"

"Yes... and I'm not here to harm you or anything.."

He sighed in relief, "Phew... But how can I trust you?"

"Because I would've done it already."

"Interesting.."

In this moment of time, I've never seen a pony up close, ever. He looked really pleasant, not to mention, very cute. I pondered at the tool that he used to dig up soil with, "Umm... What does that thing do?"

"Oh, this ol' thing? well... I made it myself!" He smiled, "It's a metal detector. It's a tool built to detect any forms of metal underneath the thick layers of soil."

In my quizzical expression, "Oh... ok... But why would you wanna do that?"

"Sweetie, you'd be surprised of what kinds of materials I dig up." He raised a quizzical eyebrow, "Say... You're nicer than you look... Just what are you? and what's your name?"

"My name's Clair, and I'm a siren."

"Oh... Well, nice to meet you Clair, my name is Jackpot Bristle. Howdy doo." He lifted his hat with a single nod.

I never met anyone so nice, it was comforting. I smiled, "What's with that diamond mark on your flanks?"

Jackpot Bristle took a glance at his own flank, "Oh, it's my cutie mark, every pony has their own cutie mark. They represent a talent. As for me, I have a diamond shape because I love to find rare stuff. Like what I'm doing now. Since I found you, would it make you a dime of dozen?"

I giggled, "If that's how you put it, then maybe?"

Jackpot Bristle chortled, "So Clair, tell me where you're from.."

"Oh, well... quite honestly... I don't know.. I live with my sisters underneath the deep blue sea.."

"Which makes sense, since you're a serpent of some kind. A beautiful serpent who can talk." Jackpot Bristle grinned coyly, "I'm from Ponyville. You should come visit sometime. I'll be more than happy to give you a tour."

"Ponyville?" I questioned.

"Yeah... It's my hometown. It's about twenty miles away from here."

Jackpot Bristle and I perplexed to the sound of a loud beep coming from his metal detector. As he re-positioned his tool on the ground, the sound transformed into a staccato of beats, "Uhoh, looks like I got something big here.." He placed his tool down, and began digging up the area with his hooves, "Whoa.." As he finally reached his jackpot underneath the soil, he dug out a beautiful pink sapphire. It shined radiantly. "Now this is what I came for.." Jackpot Bristle gazed on the sapphire in wonderment for a short while, appreciating the sparkling feature of the material.

I reinitialized, "Ummm, it does look beautiful..."

Jackpot Bristle turned his eyes on me astoundingly, "You kiddin' me?.. This thing is a definition beyond beautiful."

The gem ingrained on my chest began illuminating. It was a signal that my sisters are summoning me. Perhaps they have already waken from their slumber, but paranoid considering of what Adagio might say when I go back. I stuttered, "Hey Jackpot Bristle, I uhh, I'm sorry I have to cut this short, but I gotta go. It was nice meeting you." I swiftly spiraled my body around the opposite direction, preparing to return from where I came.

Jackpot Bristle halted, "Wait!"

I turned around with a doleful expression. Jackpot Bristle tossed the pink sapphire and flung a small photo of him, I then caught them with my hooves and dazed at him, "I don't understand."

"Keep them... Consider them your promise items that you and I will meet again." He smiled brightly, "You take care now."

I slowly grinned, "Oh... well thank you, Jackpot Bristle."

"Call me JB." He winked.

We both waved our goodbyes. I surged into the ocean deep, and swam away in great speed.

Within a few feet away from the underwater cave, there stood all three of my sisters. I gasped. Adagio and Aria stood upon me, scowling as ever. Sonata shook her head in a doleful manner, puzzled as to why I've left my post earlier. Adagio approached me with a fierce tone, "Where were you, Clair..." Adagio began circling around me.

I flinched as taking a step back, "I went to get some fresh air, Adagio..."

"Why would you need fresh air, you're a siren."

"I guess I wanted to see the sky, that's all."

Aria joined in with a huff of laughter, "You?... Want to see the sky? Don't you love nature, despite what it did to you?"

I gawked at Aria, "Go to hell, Aria.."

Adagio plunged in with words, "You're hiding something..."

"Geez Adagio, can your little sister at least get some alone time for herself?!" I immediately snapped.

Adagio growled in a deep, menacing voice, and gave me a stern glare, "Don't you EVER... EVER talk to me like that."

My eyes glossed with fear, with words in a low voice, "...Yes Sister Adagio..."

"Stop being a cry-baby. You're literally worse than Sonata." Aria grinned mischievously.

Adagio turned to Aria, "Aria, just shut.... Actually... Don't shut up... Keep talking until you say something intelligent."

Aria sighed and looked down angrily. Sonata remained silent throughout our argument, she was afraid to join in knowing that Adagio will just snarl at her.

Adagio made an announcement to the three of us, "We are now fully rested, sisters. Lets take this opportune moment to train our voices again... Because our next destination of target is Ponyville."

My eyes remain fixated at the ceiling of my apartment, photos scattered on my bed, and I turned to my nightstand noticing a flashing blue light notification on my top cell phone bezel. As I picked up to check, my eyes widened with happiness as I saw Sandal Wood's text message, "Hey Clair, I was wondering if you have anything to do today..." Seeing Sandal Wood's text message already made my morning, but still slightly bummed knowing that my time today is slim. Aside from going to the music shop to have my guitar repaired, I also needed to go to Moon Dancer's house to have a chat with her about my unexplained events with my gem necklace. I swiped through my cell phone screen to check another received text message. It was from Lyrica Lilac, urging me to go to an open mic bar tonight and sing. Obviously my guitar needs repair, so that plan is out. While the day is still young, I placed my phone back down on my night stand, I ascend from my bed, and walked towards the bathroom to brush my teeth.

HUMANAVILLE
3:46PM; SAME DAY
HUMANA MUSIC STORE

The chime above the door tinkled as I made my entrance to this small music store. There were two ladies working, one stood behind the front desk and the other lady was in the middle of polishing a particular viola that's hung on a wall. The lady behind the desk eyed on my guitar case. "Good afternoon, dear, how can I help you?"

"Yes, I would like to get a price estimate on a guitar repair?.."

"Sure, lets take a look at it.." She reached her hand out. I approached close to place my guitar case on the desk in front of her. I unlatched the case and removed the guitar and showed her the damage. She took a thorough inspection of the body and finally made her decision about the repair, "Sorry sweetie, this guitar cannot be repaired."

I was disheartened, "Ummm, there's gotta be another way, ma'am.... I really need this guitar tonight.."

"I'm sorry, this kind of crack is not something we can repair easily, and even if we did, you won't be getting the best sound from it. You have to buy a new one."

I sympathetically persisted, "This guitar is custom-made... It was given to me as a gift by someone I loved dearly. I promised her that I would take good care of it." I fold my hands over my heart with a frown, "Please..." I said in a low voice.

The lady gazed into my eyes with a moment of contemplation, till she finally agreed, "... So you're going to need this at the open mic tonight?"

"Yes ma'am."

She sighed, "I have never seen anyone so passionate about her own instrument..."

"Music is my life... Without it, I'm nothing..."

The lady slowly grinned, "Well... Leave the guitar here. I'll repair it for you." She ripped out a piece of notepad and grabbed a pen, "What's your phone number so I can call you when it's ready." She began writing down my phone number as I gave it to her, "Okay... Got it... And what time is the open mic tonight?"

I replied, "It's at seven."

As she concluded her notes, she stuck the notepad on my guitar, "Alright, consider it done. I'll give you a call around five or six."

I jumped for joy knowing that I'll be getting my guitar repaired tonight, "I can't thank you enough!"

She graciously smiled, "You are very welcome. Can I get your name?"

I cleared my throat, "Oh it's Clair... So how much will it be?"

"Don't even worry about it..."

"Are you sure?!"

"Yep."

I unexpectedly closed in a hug to the stranger behind the desk, accidentally knocking over some of the guitar picks that were displayed in a container, "Oh.. Sorry.." I began gathering all the scattered guitar picks, and placing them back inside.

She giggled, "It's okay, sweetie."

As I finished placing them all in the container, I waved a goodbye to the nice lady and told her that I would be expecting her call anytime. Knowing that half of my day is going great so far, put me in a jubilant mood. In consideration of the foregoing, I bicycled my way to Moon Dancer's place.

HUMANAVILLE
4:44PM; SAME DAY
MOON DANCER'S APARTMENT

"Moon Dancer, I swear I haven't felt anything like this about anyone before." I sat by Moon Dancer's counter-top, and took a sip of her finest tea, then a bite of biscuit.

Moon Dancer approached the table to sit across me and placed her chapter book on the table beside her. She took a sip of her tea, "Clair, Clair, Clair.. .. You still haven't learned..."

I raised a quizzical eyebrow, "Learn what... What are you talkin' about?.."

"Don't be senseless.. You can't just assume this guy you've only met twice is meant to be with you forever..."

I looked at her with a straight face, "What do you know about love at first sight?.."

"Enough to know that it's luck or just a coincidence."

"Ok?... then it's a coincidence."

"I say it's a scheme.." She took a bite of her biscuit.

"..Anyway... I didn't come here just to tell you about Sandal Wood..." I removed my gem necklace, then held it, "Remember that day at the lunch room?"

"Yeah, and I thought I was going crazy.."

I placed my gem down on the counter-top in front of her, "And remember that day I was late for school?" Moon Dancer nodded, and continued to listen. "Well... It happened again that previous night, but this time, it was different. I can't explain it, Moon Dancer... The only thing I remembered was that I fell unconsciously on the floor, and the next thing I knew, I was late for school the following morning."

She gazed at me in a brooding manner and heaved out a deep sigh, "Ugh.. Clair, you should've called me, you idiot."

"Oh, you didn't think I knew that? I was on the floor, Moon Dancer... I had sudden feels of coldness and chills down my spine."

She covered her face with one palm, and reached her other hand out, "Hand me that gem." I shifted the gem across the table. She then grabbed it, and inspected it, "What makes you think I can do something about it.."

Moon Dancer does not know that I'm a creature from another dimension, but right now I'm in desperate need of answers. Moon Dancer is the smartest person I know, so I thought maybe I can start with her. "Moon Dancer... Do you believe in paranormal stuff?"

"In some degree.."

"Don't you think that this gem has some supernatural powers of some sort?"

She looked at me with a fixed expression, and placed the gem back down on the table, "Clair, I'm flattered that you chose me to solve this mystery, but witchcraft, sorcery, and magic are beyond my knowledge." She shifted the gem back to my direction.

"Oh...." I looked down with downcast eyes and pondered.

She rolled her eyes, "Clair... You're killin' me with that face... Fine.. I'll go take a look at it.."

"YAY!" I raised both my hands with joy.

*Cell Phone Rings*

I quickly removed my cell phone from my pocket, and answered it, "Hello?"

The lady on the other end replied, "Hey Clair, I just would like to let you know that your guitar is ready for pick up."

"So soon? Awesome! I'll be on my way there... Thanks... Bye.." I turned my cell phone screen off, and hid it back in my pocket.

Moon Dancer leered, "So you have decided about going to that open mic tonight.."

I stood up from my stool chair and rummaged through my purse for my eye-liner to make a quick, finalizing touch-up in front of Moon Dancer's mirror hung on a wall, "Yup."

"Is Sandal Flip Flop going to be there?"

"Sandal Wood.." I corrected her.

"Whatever." She continued with words, "So you're just going to leave your gem here?"

"Yeah, is that okay with you?"

"I guess I don't have a choice.."

"Have you spoke to Cuddle Bug today?" I questioned.

"She's coming over. She said she needed help on her history project consisting of molding clay."

"Hmmm... Ok?.. You girls have fun." I giggled and gave her a peck kiss on the cheek, "Love ya, call me when something comes up, k?"

She sighed, "Fine... Love ya too. Please remember what I told you earlier." The door shut as I quickly made my exit from Moon Dancer's apartment. "Geez... Why is she such in a hurry for a guy she hardly even knows.."

HUMANAVILLE
6:02PM; SAME EVENING
GRIFFONSTONE PUB

It was yet another breezy night just outside of the pub. I've texted Lyrica Lilac back in short notice that I was able to make it tonight at the pub. Sandal Wood agreed to come tonight to see me play and sing. So tonight is a very special night for me, and I'm nervous. A huge line extended from the entrance of the pub. Griffonstone is famous for having the best open mic night, not to mention, awesome food. It was a go-to spot for entertainment of great singers. I don't consider myself a great singer, but Lyrica Lilac sure does think so.

I waited in the long line with everyone else, until Lyrica Lilac called out for me in a loud voice from the backdoor located at the side of the pub, "Clair, in here!"

As I held my big guitar case with me, I carefully scampered towards her and entered.

The backstage was packed with band members. Judging from their looks, there were acoustic pop singers like myself, rock bands, and rappers. I've come to perform here from time to time, but the backstage was never this packed before. Nonetheless, I unlatched my guitar case and removed my guitar to observe the spot where it was previously damaged. It looked perfect. Through my inquiring mind, how was she able to repair it so perfectly? I couldn't even spot one little blemish at all.

"Clair! you're up next, what song are you going to play tonight, and do you need any backups?" Lyrica Lilac rushed in with words, "Sorry that I'm in a hurry here, because things came on such short notice." She chuckled lightly.

I grimaced, "Sorry... My guitar needed some repair and..."

"It's alright, I'm just glad you showed up. We really need your voice tonight." She cut me off with words.

"But why me?"

"Do I need to explain now?"

"...Fine... I'll be performing a cover song: Photograph by Ed Sheeran... And I'm going to need someone to assist me with a tambourine."

"I got you covered, hun. The mic is ready for you on stage, go go go!"

The crowd noise diminished in volume as I approached the stage with my guitar. I then sat on a high-stool with the mic perfectly aligned with my jaw. The amount of crowd brought me in state of amazement, as I looked around the vicinity of this pub. If I had to guess, there were about hundreds of people looking right at me, anticipating me to begin. Sandal Wood was all the way in the back row and he waved his hand. My heart pounded out a jagged rhythm and I smiled broadly. Knowing that he's here to watch me perform, I have to make sure that every single key note counts. I took a deep breath, and counted with metronome of beats—one, two, three, four:

My audience remain silent for a short while. The first clap was heard within the crowd, the second followed, then it all accumulated as a whole. I peered through the crowds, and the continuation of claps got louder. I was overjoyed to receive such great support from the audience. I stepped down from the high-stool, and bowed. As I looked up, there stood Adagio Dazzle looking right at me from a distance within the pub, leaning against a pillared-wall near the exit. My eyes widened in perplexity. I took another glance at that same area, she was no longer there. Instinctively, I dropped my guitar, and knocked off the mic stand, causing a loud feedback noise from the mic as I hastily advanced towards to where Adagio was. I forcefully pushed my way through the crowd and finally made it at the exit. I quickly scanned around the area outside, asking a couple of people if they happen to see a girl with orange fluffy hair with a black hoodie pass by around here. No one saw. I'm not sure if my mind is playing tricks on me, but something tells me that my sisters are in trouble.

Author's Note

I would like to first thank you for reading up to this point. What do you think will happen next? Stay tuned for another episode of Dragon Ball Z. :pinkiecrazy:

By the way, if anyone needed to know who sang the first and the second song, click on the youtube link for the description. Thanks!

Chapter 6: Ascendancy

I've exhausted another five minutes outside of the pub in search for Adagio, until I heard Sandal Wood's ambled foot steps with voice echoing from a short distance, "Clair!" I turned to the voice, but looking flummoxed. Sandal Wood continued with words as he drew near, "What's wrong? Are you okay?" My mind is running like eighty miles an hour. I'm not sure what to think, or what I'm trying to do, but I feel like my world is turning upside down, even though I've already accepted the fact that my sisters have disowned me many years ago. "Disown you many years ago?.." Sandal Wood scratched his head in puzzlement to my unintentional answer to his question.

I retorted with a grin, "Oh, sorry... I have the tendency to say whatever's on my mind loudly.."

"Oh it's okay.. I was wond'ring why you left the stage like you did."

At this point, I couldn't think of an excuse to cover myself, but to unveil the honest truth, "I... Saw someone I knew, at least I thought I did.."

"Oh.. Well... You were great in there! You have such an awesome voice."

"Thanks.." My eyes wandered off in a distance thinking that Adagio might still be nearby.

Not even noticing that Sandal Wood held my guitar case the whole time, he grinned, "I thought you might've forgotten your guitar, so..." He placed the case down near me.

"Oh, yes... It's just.. It's been a derpy day." I giggled as I took the case and placed it near my leg side.

"Hey, we all have those days." We both nodded, "Well Clair, thanks for inviting me tonight, I'll let you go, seems like you have a lot going on."

I shook my head, "No I don't..."

"Yeah you do." He pointed at my guitar case, "The condition of your guitar would say a lot about it if you take a look."

"Oh no..." I looked down downheartedly.

Sandal Wood with an effort to cheer me up, "Hey... How about I'll fix it. I'm very savant when it comes to wood crafting and such. How hard can it be.."

"It's more than just patching up a hole in a guitar." I looked up with a grin, and blushed, "But thanks for the offer, that's sweet of you.."

"Are you sure?"

*Cell phone rings*

"Oh.. 'scuse me for a sec.." I pulled my phone out from my pocket, contorting at my phone screen to see Moon Dancer calling me. I answered it, "Yes MD..."

"Oh good you answered. Could you come over tonight?" She replied instantly on the other side of the phone.

"..Well yeah of course, is everything ok?"

"Yeah, I just need to talk to you about your gem."

I sighed on the phone, urging her to continue, "Yeah?..."

"I'll explain when you get here... Oh since you'll be over, wanna spend the night? Cuddle Bug is here."

"She better not be wearing my clothes... When I say clothes, I really mean my underwear and bra too!"

Sandal Wood blushed as I inadvertently said those words loudly in front of him during my conversation with Moon Dancer. I grimaced at him, "Oops, sorry." As hitting my forehead with the palm of my hand.

Sandal Wood scratched his head with a confused smile, "Uh, it's quite alright..."

Moon Dancer on the other side of the phone, "Sorry for what?.. Who are you talking to?"

"Just wait for me I'll be there in half an hour ok? Bye." I instantly hung up the phone, and looked at him with a beaming grin, "Sorry that you had to hear that, my friend can be a nag sometimes."

"Oh it's all good.."

We smiled at each other coyly for a short moment, I couldn't help how handsome he looked. His green eyes blended perfectly from the light of the moon. He re-initiated, "Uh.. Been wanting to ask ya.. Would you like to go out for dinner sometime, perhaps tomorrow, let's say around... seven?"

The feeling of delight radiated through my body, causing my eyes to sparkle with joy, "I would love to."

"Awesome, I'll text ya tonight for more info." He said, "I hope you find that person who you thought you might've seen, and don't stress a thing about the guitar, you'll get it fixed. You have a good night, and stay outta trouble."

I chuckled, "Likewise."

We both waved our goodbyes. I couldn't go home just yet, I had to explain to Lyrica Lilac about what happened. But having caught a glimpse of Adagio at the pub, still left me questioning as to why she showed up after my performance, and disappeared in a blink of an eye. I'm sure she'll show up again, but it's a matter of when and where.

HUMANAVILLE
8:01PM; SAME EVENING
MOON DANCER'S APARTMENT

After spending an hour discussing about my gem at Moon Dancer's place since my arrival, it remain a mystery. Cuddle Bug made no sense, but it was very thoughtful of her to contribute her theory of what may have caused the gem to illuminate. She thought that my gem probably came with a battery, causing it to light up like a Christmas tree. Moon Dancer couldn't bare to hear anymore of her nonsense, thus why she had invited me over for the night. While Moon Dancer and I sat across from each other at the dining table drinking tea, Cuddle Bug was playing a video game in the living room.

"So you're telling me there's nothing else we can do about it other than to destroy it.." I blankly looked at Moon Dancer intently.

Moon Dancer nodded faintly with sad eyebrows, "Yeah... Sweetie... Cuddle Bug and I worry about you lately.." She reached her hand out, and laid her hand on my arm, "But if you can just tell me where you got the necklace, I might be able to expand my knowledge on it."

For some reason, I sensed that Moon Dancer is trying to force an answer out of me. If I told my friends that I used to be a villainous creature from a different dimension known as Equestria, who tried to put every pony in mind derp for eternity, that would mean risking my friendship. So I dodged her question, "Just forget it... you can give me my gem necklace back. I appreciate you trying though, you're such a good friend."

"No." Moon Dancer with a definite tone.

"Sorry but... are you used to saying that?"

Cuddle Bug in a loud voice from across the living room, "What MD is trying to say is that she's not giving you back your gem necklace until you tell us where you got it... OH! DAMN YOU GOOMBA!" Cuddle Bug shouted at her game, losing to an opponent.

Moon Dancer folded her arms with a face betraying no sign of emotion, "You heard CB... So where did you get it?"

I squinted and shook my head in confusion, "Why do you want to know so badly?"

"Because, we're your friends, Clair. You mean the world to us... Right after you told me what had happened a couple of days ago, who's to say it won't happen again, you might end up in the hospital for all we know..."

I huffed out with laughter, "Hah! Oookay MD, let's not get crazy now."

"I'm glad you think this is a joke, Clair.."

I cleared my throat, then stood up from my seat, "Ya' know... I change my mind about spending the night." I grabbed my purse and my guitar case, "You girls have a good night. I have a date tomorrow anyway, plus, I gotta get my guitar fixed.."

"I thought you already had it fixed.."

"Unfortunately, It broke again.."

Cuddle Bug in a loud voice across the living room, "Really?! How?! Oh wait! This one should be free, right? You've already paid for the first repair, so you get this one for free."

I leered over to Cuddle Bug with slight annoyance, then back to Moon Dancer, "Just... Gimmie back my necklace, MD.."

"Fine.." She swung around to her accent table, then pulled out a single drawer, unveiling the gem. She picked it up and tossed it to me, "Clair, this conversation is not over."

"It is..." I said as I began wearing the gem necklace, "You've already done your part... I get it... This ain't your cup of tea."

Moon Dancer's tone increased in volume, "Look... Whatever it is that's holding you back from telling us, I'm sure it can't be that bad... I mean c'mon... It's us... What have you got to hide?"

Moon Dancer is right. Friendship is all about loyalty and trust. Now that I've thought about it, if it wasn't for Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug, who knows what kind of life I'd have. But I'm sure as hell I wouldn't be living my life the way I am now, "I'll think about it, MD. This gem has a lot of history that revolves around me..." I said in a low voice, "If you're a friend, you'd give me some time.."

Moon Dancer nodded with an expression of sympathy, "Okay."

I grinned, "Love ya."

"Love ya too."

I turned to Cuddle Bug, who is still engrossed with her video game, I said in a loud voice, "I love you Cuddle Bug!"

"Yeah, you too!"

Moon Dancer and I chuckled lightly.

*Text Message*

I temporarily placed my guitar case down to pull out my phone from my pocket. Sandal Wood texted me about where he and I would meet up tomorrow at seven. Moon Dancer peered at me quizzically, "Was that Sandal Flip Flop?"

I rolled my eyes and dropped my arms loose, "I swear, if you call him that one more time..."

Moon Dancer with a mischievous grin, "Or else what."

I grunted, "It's Sandal Wood! Okay?!"

"Yeah... Whatever.."

After texting Sandal Wood back, agreeing to the place he'd like to meet up, I waved at both Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug, "You girls have a good night, sorry I can't stay."

"It's ok Clair, we get it. We know what you're up to tonight anyway."

Cuddle Bug joined in while engrossed with her video game, "You guys will be smooching all night on the phone!"

I placed a palm on the side of my face and chuckled, "You girls are something else.." I headed towards Moon Dancer's apartment door exit, "If I don't see you girls tomorrow, I'll see you girls on Monday."

We all waved each other goodbye, and I finally exited the apartment door.

As the sun faded from the sky this evening, it was pretty difficult to ride my bicycle whilst holding my guitar case on my back. But I was able to manage. It was about an eight mile distance between Moon Dancer's place and mine. As I bicycled through the direction of my path towards my apartment, I brood about my last sighting of Adagio back in the pub. I want to see her again, I want to see my sisters again. But I don't know where to begin my search. In my deep thought, my mind reverted back with the two girls in the bakery, Twilight and Sunset. Having to revisit the words of Twilight a couple of days ago, left me in a state of aloofness, "We can help you with your problem, Clair... But not if you run away..." Needless to say, I may have to see them again. They're the only ones with the answer to my mystery, and this time, I will not run away.

HUMANAVILLE
10:10PM; SAME NIGHT
MY APARTMENT

I turned the lights on as I made my entrance into my apartment door, then flung my keys on top of my coffee table and sorted through my mail. I fixated on the clock hung on a high-wall, I was shocked to see how time just passed me by. I was debating whether I should visit the bakery tonight, but that's out of the question. As I turned the television on and tuned to one of my favorite TV series currently showing: Supernatural. I walked towards the kitchen to brew some tea. Feeling alone at this time of the night, I should've just spent the night over at Moon Dancer's place to keep my mind off of things. Now I can't help but dwell on my past. My memory pulled me in once again with my sisters:

713,000 years ago in Equestria

All four of us siren sisters hunkered down on a rock island in the middle of the sea of Equestria. Adagio floated amidst the air in a degree where she's facing us, announcing the plan of our next act of terrorism. "Ponyville." Adagio with a mischievous grin, "That place is filled with magic. More than you could ever imagine."

Aria with a hunger look in her eyes, "What are we waiting for?!"

Adagio teased, "Settle down, Aria, there will be plenty for every siren."

Adagio eyeballed at me with a suspicion of uneasiness in my deadpan expression, "Is there a problem, Clair?"

I recovered from my expressionless state, and replied in a standardized tone, "No."

Adagio drew in close to me, with her eyebrows lowered, "You and I will have a long talk later.."

I wasn't sure if Adagio read my mind, but she knew something wasn't right about me. Ever since our first invasion of Saddle Arabia, it gave away my true colors as I was hesitant to use my power against the poor Arabian ponies. Invading Ponyville, just made it more difficult for me to control my emotions.

Adagio gave forth our plan, "Sonata, you'll be with me. We will invade villages nearby Everfree Forest."

"Yes." Sonata with a serious nod.

Adagio looked over to Aria's direction, "Aria, you and Clair take cover the east side of Ponyville, leaving them trapped."

Aria with a malicious smile, "I got this."

Adagio floated on a high point from where they were positioned on a rock island, "Lets move, girls."

We all flew like the wind, and headed east. Adagio was ahead of us, but we were all steadily flying at the same speed, swiftly as ever.

As we all finally arrived the outskirts of Ponyville, Adagio and Sonata went separate ways, while Aria and I headed to an area where Adagio had commanded us. As we discreetly entered Ponyville, Aria led us to a large bush, where we can make a preemptive strike against the ponies. Aria in a very low voice, "Ok Clair, I want you to follow my lead. If you mess this up, I will tear that gem out of your chest, you hear?"

With my serious squint, "..You're not the boss of me.."

"No, but I'm still your big sister."

I sighed with no words of response.

Aria surveyed the area for a group of ponies, "Besides... What the hell is wrong with you today?.."

"Aria... can we not talk and just get this over with?"

Aria paused and looked at me with suspicion, "Were you even looking forward to this opportunity?"

I stuttered slightly in words, "I... Yeah of course I am.."

Aria with her eyebrow raised, "Lies!"

One little filly with a blank flank found us hiding behind a big bush, startled, and her hooves began to tremble in fear. She screamed loudly enough for every pony in the area to hear, "MONSTERS!!! HELP!!!" Every pony stampeded in every direction of the village with combined screaming. Aria hastily flew up and discharged her deadly musical note at her area of sight. Adagio and Sonata appeared from the opposite direction and did the same. They were all preoccupied in this moment of discord, mind controlling numbers of ponies. I discreetly left my post without them knowing, and headed to another side of Ponyville to warn the innocent ponies of an incoming act of terrorism.

I found a lowly crowded part of Ponyville, which appears to be a marketplace of some sort. Every pony cowered down in fear as I disembarked myself on the ground. In my loud voice, I informed every pony to escape while they can, "Every pony has to leave this place now! You must hurry before it's too late!"

"Clair?"

I turned to the familiar voice, seeing Jackpot Bristle with a puzzled look on his face, he continued with words, "What are you doing here, and why do you want us all to leave?"

"There's no time to explain, you have to leave, EVERY PONY MAKE YOUR ESCAPE NOW!" But it was already too late. Adagio, Aria, and Sonata appeared right before them. Every pony then began galloping away, with the exception of Jackpot Bristle, who was hiding behind my tail. Adagio and Aria sneered at me, but Sonata shook her head with a concerned look in her eyes.

Adagio letting out a grunt of smoke from her nose, "Clair! I knew it. It's you, it's always been you who is slowing us down!"

Sonata attempted to calm Adagio down, "Dagi... Please give her a chance to explain.."

"NO! I've had enough of her arrogance!" Adagio glide from amidst the air closer to me. The closer she got, the more I needed to shield Jackpot Bristle away.

Adagio lowered her voice in a standard tone, "I see how it is.." Adagio began advancing away the opposite direction, "If this is your way of life of a siren..." She then slowly swung her head around to face me, "You are not considered our sister!" A red beam shot out from her eyes, aimed at my heart. I quivered in pain, and faltered to the ground. My vision became blurry, I had no options but to regain my strength to protect Jackpot Bristle.

"Are... are you okay Clair?" Jackpot Bristle grieved.

My voice became weak, "You... have to escape... while you can..."

"No.. I'm not leaving you!"

Aria mimicked Jackpot Bristle's words, "I'm not leaving you." She followed up with a sinister laugh, "This pony is mine."

As Aria was about to release a high sound wave of notes from her vocal cord for an attempt to mind control little Jackpot Bristle, a sudden beam of light just missed Aria's head from a high point which caused her to stop. We all looked up in the sky, our eyes widened as we saw Princess Celestia and Princess Luna soaring down from a far, high distance.

Adagio rushed in with words as a protest to retreat, "Lets go girls, we have to leave!"

Adagio and Aria made their advance. But Sonata, on the other hand, with a noticeable teardrop down her face, calmly came to me with an attempt to help me up, but I was too weak to stand. Aria with a furious look, "Sonata, lets go! Leave her... She's no longer our sister."

Sonata ignored Aria, and persisted to help me up until Adagio muscled in with words, "Sonata! Do you want to join her?"

Sonata finally obeyed Adagio's tyranny words. But before she joined them, she had placed a toy size acoustic guitar by my side. She whispered, "Clair... This will protect you where ever you go... No matter what anyone says, you will always be my sister."

"SONATA!!!" Adagio shouted with a combined growl, "WE HAVE TO GO!!"

Sonata finally joined Adagio and Aria, swiftly made their move and surged under the ocean deep.

The two princesses progressed on following them, it was to my surprise that they even dove under the ocean. With my presence being frowned upon by the ponies, I thought it would be a smart idea to leave Ponyville before the princesses come back for me. But I was still too weak.

"Clair, you must leave Ponyville before Princess Celestia and Princess Luna come back." Jackpot Bristle said, "You can't reason with them. They are absolute, and they will destroy you..."

I tried to recover from the trauma, but whenever I try, my body always ended up faltering, "I... I can't... It's ok... I'm not afraid to die.."

"No! You have to escape, Clair, and you must do it now!" Jackpot Bristle battled his way on an attempt to help me up, but failed. He scrutinized his surrounding, and saw a couple of ponies still peering to our direction. Jackpot Bristle requested dire assistance, "Can any pony please help us?! She obviously needs help, Please lend me your hooves and bring her back into the ocean!" They all whispered loudly to each other questioning as to why they would help a mind-controlling monster. "C'mon ponies! She's a good siren, if it wasn't for her, who knows what would've happened to us!" Jackpot Bristle with an exhausting look on his face, and shouted in a demanding voice, "PONIES PLEASE! We have to help her before she dies!" A tear came down his eyes. Then the ponies finally realize how important I am to Jackpot Bristle. A couple of stallions drew near to lend their assistance to push me back onto the shore, "Don't worry Clair, everything will be alright."

"Th... Thank you, JB..." I replied in a weak voice.

After a couple of stallions finally moved my body near the shore, I finally gained my momentum. I was no longer weak, but still affected by Adagio's beam attack. I swam under the water like a serpent, and disappeared as I surged under the ocean.

"Sam! I know you're in there, you can beat this son-of-a-bitch of a devil, you're better than that!" I recovered back to my sense of reality, sitting on my living room couch with my feet tucked in, watching my favorite TV series. I picked up my cell phone to check the time, and sighed heavily to know that it is way past midnight. I found it unusual that my gem didn't light up tonight like it usually would. But I didn't care much for it, I was really tired and all I wanted to do was just tune in for the night.

HUMANAVILLE
8:46PM; SUNDAY EVENING
HUMANAVILLE POND

Right after my dinner date with Sandal Wood, he decided to take me for a walk to Humanaville Pond at this time of the night. It was just a stroll from the restaurant, so we didn't have to use our bikes. We took a stroll through the side walk that leads us through some pathway of trees. It was a beautiful night, and breezy. It was a perfect night for a couples date.

"That was a good restaurant, I gotta say." Sandal Wood initiated.

I smiled, "Yes, I loved their Chicken Florentine Crepes."

"Well thanks to you I'm hungry again."

We both giggled.

As we finally arrived within the vicinity of a trail leading directly to a pond, it was secluded. The pond was stagnant, but it was graceful. The night sky shined exuberantly with countless stars right before our eyes. No one was around but me and Sandal Wood. He gently took my hand, and held it. He faced me in close distance and held my other hand. I haven't felt so protected in thousands of years by his warm touch. He looked into my eyes with pure fondness, "You're... very beautiful.." And slowly ran his index finger through my hair.

I blushed and coyly looked away, "Thank you."

He held my chin and gently turned my head back to face him. For thousands of years during my lifetime, I've never felt anything like this before. A rush of heat started in my chest, and slowly spread throughout my body. From the slight twitch of my lip to the way my shoulders rose, and fell as I breathe. He leaned forward slowly, his hand brushing the hair out of my face and in an instant, his lips were on mine. They were rough and smooth, they were perfect. He moved them around in circles and my heart swelled. His breathing was deep. I moaned, and so did he.

"I love the way you kiss." Sandal Wood said in a low voice

I giggled, "I can say the same for you, silly."

When all wonderful short moments like these came to an end, my gem gleamed radiantly, much stronger than the last. It almost blinded me and Sandal Wood. Suddenly, that same feeling of vertigo struck me, which made my legs wobbled. Sandal Wood grabbed onto me as I almost fell to the ground. The gem remain gleaming throughout the entire area from where were stood. Sandal Wood baffled with words loudly, "What's going on?!... Clair... Your necklace!.."

I couldn't control the power, it's like it has a mind of its own. Through my awareness that I'm out of practice with Equestrian magic, but this was something different. It was something I've never felt before, like something is trying pull me in. As I forced my eyes to look up, there stood Adagio Dazzle right behind Sandal Wood. Sandal Wood turned around to see who was behind him, "Who the?.... Who are you?! What have you done to Clair?!" Adagio swiftly placed her index finger on Sandal Wood's forehead, causing him to collapse on the ground, and so did I. The brightness light of my gem finally dimmed down in seconds. Adagio took a couple of steps closer to me, she placed both hands on her hips, and looked at me with expression of impassiveness. It's been thousands of years since I last heard her voice, and it still trembled me to this day, "Clair." I was still recovering from the fall, and my eyes were still blurry.

Adagio progressed with words of aggressiveness, "Get up."

I huffed and puffed, trying to recover fast from the slight trauma.

Adagio with a raised eyebrow, she crossed her arms, "I don't remember you being this weak, now GET UP!" Adagio raised her voice.

I finally forced myself up on two feet for the sake of Adagio's command. But my body wobbled then fell onto her, gripping onto her waist side, and sobbed like a baby. Adagio was astounded to see me crying dismally on her waist side as a desperate need for someone that I can depend and lean on. Adagio quickly realized that she was the only one I've got, despite of what she did in the past. She lowered herself next to me, and comforted me with a hug.

HUMANAVILLE
10:31PM; SAME NIGHT
QUIET STREETS OF HUMANAVILLE

Since I couldn't bear to walk, Adagio decided to carry me on a piggy back. In spite of her looks, she is physically strong. We walked a long way from Humanaville Pond. Adagio promised me that Sandal Wood would be okay the next morning when he wakes up. It wasn't right to leave him back there, but I'm not one to question her. I initiated a conversation, "Adagio?"

"Yeah?"

"Where are we going?" I questioned.

"... Going to my place.."

"Oh... would Aria and Sonata be there?"

"Yeah..."

In my expressionless state, I called for her once again, "Adagio?"

Adagio sighed, "What?.."

"Why do you have such manly strength?"

"Want me to throw you down the lake?"

It's in my siren gene to ask senseless question, just like Sonata, but she's the worse. I remain silent for the time being, but I am very excited to see Sonata and Aria again in such a long time. As Adagio continually walked us through the hills, and a couple of turns, I fell asleep on her back shoulder.

Author's Note

I think you all are aware at this point that I will be posting one chapter a week. I tried to do two a week but keep in mind that I'm also a full time medical professional, that being said, time is limited. But I won't keep you guys hangin', stories like these take time with creativity.... So now let me play minecraft... :pinkiecrazy:

Chapter 7: Opposite Retracts

HUMANAVILLE
12:34AM; SAME MIDNIGHT
ADAGIO'S APARTMENT

After a long walk from Humanaville Pond, I was fast asleep on Adagio's back shoulder while she still had me on a piggy back throughout the time. We arrived at her apartment complex, took a couple of flight of stairs until we finally reached the front of her apartment door entrance. After Adagio unlocked her apartment door, we slowly entered. She switched the lights on, lighting up both her kitchen and her living room. Adagio hobbled to the nearest couch, and carefully laid me down. Adagio looked fixedly at me. She ruminated on how much I've changed in appearance. She noticed my pink hair bow, my off-shoulder top, and my cute a-line skirt. I spent almost the whole day trying on various of dresses just to impress Sandal Wood tonight, which should've turned out wonderful, until Adagio showed up in the middle of our romantic moment. Adagio approached and sat on the edge of the couch, near my legs. She carefully placed her palm on my forehead to check my temperature.

Adagio is known to be a cold-hearted siren because of her way of vocal teaching, and that goes without saying, her individuality as a whole. But it's understandable from where she's coming from, after all, we're born to be the savages of beauty, to control and manipulate the minds of the weak. But she does have a soft side, and it's her job to take care of us because she is our oldest sister. She was stunned when she felt my warm body temperature. She hastily got up from the couch, then walked towards her closet to grab a comforter, and carefully tucked me in. She sighed and shook her head in sorrow, questioning how I've gotten so weak. "Sirens never get sick." Through her inquiring mind, she was theorizing whether I wasn't training enough, or just strictly suppressed from my real reason of my goal.

Suddenly, a creak sound was heard from a bedroom door. A girl called out for Adagio, "Adagio." Then tiptoed slowly near us, and knelt down on the floor by my side. She looked closely, observing my facial features, "Is this Clair?" Then looked at Adagio quizzically.

Adagio rolled her eyes, "Yes Sonata, who else could it be?"

"Ohhhh ok." Sonata continue observing my facial features, and let out a bright grin, "She's very pretty, Adagio..." She giggled.

"Can you laugh a little louder, so she can wake up?"

"Oops... sorry."

"Why don't you go back to bed, Sonata, I don't want Aria to wake up... You creeping out here in the middle of the night is enough."

"What about you?"

"Don't worry about me.."

"Well then, can we have tacos tomorrow."

"Sonata, how many times do I have to tell you how much you piss me off when you get all random, you need to stop... Plus.. It's only Monday.. Geez.."

"Oh... Well... Macaroni Monday?"

Adagio sighed heavily, "... Fine, just go to bed already..."

Sonata whispered loudly, "Yay."

Adagio let out a menacing look to Sonata as a course of action to shut her up so I wouldn't wake up.

Sonata with a smirk, and in a low voice, "Ok.. I'll be going to bed now, good night." She slowly tiptoed back towards her bedroom, and closed the door behind her.

Adagio also decided to tune in for the night. She stood up from the couch, turned all the lights off, and casually walked to her bedroom.

HUMANAVILLE
9:00AM; FOLLOWING DAY, MONDAY
ADAGIO'S APARTMENT

I slowly opened my eyes in wakefulness to the sound of something being fried in a frying pan, and a wonderful scent of bacon and pancakes. I slowly scanned around the vicinity of the room. It was pretty spacious considering only the three of them living here. As I ascended my body slightly in an angle to observe who's in the kitchen, I suddenly perceived a mental image of Adagio, as an actual siren, cooking. It lasted for a second, then my perception suddenly snapped back to reality of her human form. As I observed her long, puffy orange hair, I was uncertain if she had forgotten to fix her hair this morning, or that's how she actually style her hair. But either way, it was unique. She and I both know that there are thousands of questions roaming through our heads, but it's best to start off with a good morning, but I stuttered.

"Good Morning, sister Adagio."

Adagio turned around showing no signs of emotion, and turned back to continue frying the eggs, ".. Morning."

To think that we haven't seen each other for thousands of years, my expectation of her reaction was totally the opposite: Dull. But that's the way she's always been, ever since our days in Equestria.

"Breakfast is almost ready, why don't you go brush your teeth. Aria and Sonata will be out in a few."

I got up from the couch then remain seated. I glazed at her while she was occupied in the kitchen, flipping pancakes, "Umm.. Okay."

Adagio directed me in words, "Bathroom is the second door to your right."

In my quizzical mind, I'm curious to know what's going through her head, but for the mean time, I got up from the couch, and walked straight to the bathroom to freshen up before the morning officially starts.

Half an hour later, as I got out of the bathroom, three of my sisters were seated at the table in the dining area, having breakfast. Sonata's eyes widened in awe and jumped for joy, "Clair!" She ran straight towards me with a pancake in her mouth, "You're finally back!" Then tackled me down. The syrup from the pancake began dripping on my face.

"Sonata!.. I just took a shower.."

"Oops, sorry!" Sonata stood up, then reached out her hand for assistance, and helped me up, "Let's have breakfast! We have so much to catch up on!" Sonata strolled to the dining area, and sat down. This moment of having breakfast with my sisters, was too good to be true. I pinched myself to check if I was actually dreaming, but I surely was not. Sonata patted a vacant seat, and let out words in a loud, but cheerful tone, "C'mon slow poke! The food is getting cold!" I casually walked towards the dining area, and sat on a vacant seat.

Aria wore a straight face, she looked at me with a serious squint, while cutting a piece of pancake with her fork on her plate, "Hey Adagio.."

"What, Aria.." Adagio took a bite of her bacon.

"Are you sure this is Clair? She can be an impostor for all we know."

I let out a sarcastic laugh, "Ha.. Ha.. Very funny, Aria.."

Aria still had her eyes on me, "So, where did you find her, Adagio.."

Adagio with a keen response, "I found her at the park. She was kissing some guy."

"Horny bitch.." Aria quickly retorted.

I wore a derisive look on my face to Aria's quick retort. After a short moment of pause, I noticed that none of them were wearing their gem necklace. As if it's rude that I'm the only one wearing it. Just what kind of joke are they planning? Nonetheless, I re-initiated a conversation, by questioning Adagio, "Ummm.." They all glared at me, "Ummm... All these years... Why now?"

Adagio with her mouth filled with bacon, "Why don't you take a bite of your pancake before it gets cold, hun."

I let out a puzzling look as to how that would answer my question. However, I did what Adagio told me. I coaxed a piece of my pancake with my fork, and ate it. I placed my fork down, and reverted back to my question, "So... Did something happen?"

Aria joined in, "As you can see, we no longer have our gem necklace and... GEEZ Sonata, would you like some pancakes with that syrup?!" Aria was distracted by Sonata when she persistently drowned her pancake with syrup, leaving the syrup bottle empty.

Sonata with a squee smile, "Nahhhh, I think this is good enough!"

Adagio finished Aria's sentence, "I'm not sure if you are aware, but there is Equestrian magic out there."

"Yeah, and?"

Aria with a raised eyebrow, "So you know?"

"Well, this gem has been acting up a lot lately on its own... It lights up, mostly at night... So, something is up..."

Adagio sighed heavily.

Aria turned to Adagio, "What do we do now?"

"It'll just have to run its course, there's nothing we can do about it since we no longer have our gems.."

"There's gotta be another way to control it before it's too late.."

I quizzically looked back and forth in between Adagio and Aria, and cut them off with words, "Wait, wait wait..." I huffed out with laughter, "I'm sorry girls, but am I missing something here?! You gotta fill me in..."

Adagio took a deep breath, with an attempt to explain, "Clair... Ever since we lost our gems..."
"Okay, Adagio, explain how you all lost your gems..."
"Dammit Clair, lemme finish!" Adagio quickly stood up and banged both of her fists on her side of the dining table, causing a strip of bacon to fly on Sonata's face. Adagio's hysterical behavior took us all by surprise, and it was me to blame for. She gathered her intellect, and lowered her voice in a standard tone, "Clair.. Let me just finish, ok?"

I shrugged, then took a bite of my eggs, "Ok."

Aria with an indignant expression, "Trying to be cocky, Clair? This is why we left you seven-hundred thousand years ago... It's because of your bitchy attitude. Have some damn respect."
"Aria, just SHUT.. UP.. So I can finish what I'm trying to explain here." Adagio intervene.

Adagio took another deep breath, "Our gems are broken, Clair... Our voices are gone."

I slack-jawed, "But how?"

"We were defeated by a mysterious Equestrian magic. The source of our voices were contained in those gems, and it's now gone. We're literally just humans now."

Sonata joined in with her mouth full, "But you could avenge us."

Aria snorted out a laughter, "Clair?... Avenging us?... That's a joke... Hey Adagio, remember that one time in Ponyville, she betrayed us?"

Adagio looked at me seriously, "I'm sure in this time of age, it would be different, right Clair?"

I took a sip of my orange juice, "Well... Time did change for better and worse. But what did you have in mind?"

"There are two girls you have to look out for.... Twilight and Sunset."

I choked, and spit the orange juice at Sonata's face unintentionally, "Oops... Sorry Sonata.."

Sonata remained a smile on her face, shook her head and waved her hand dismissively, "Nahhhh, it's no big deal, I was going to wash up anyway.." Sonata stood up, and ran straight to the bathroom.

Adagio rolled her eyes, and continued, "As I was saying... You are our only hope to eliminate these girls."

I laughed nervously, "Adagio, don't you think your asking a little too much?"

"Clair! When did you ever stick up for the family?!" Aria interrupted, then turned to Adagio, "Adagio, I told you this was a bad idea!"
I instantly stood up from my seat, "Aria! I know you're older than me, but don't you ever treat me like a child! I did stick up for you girls, and I've explained that there was another way for all of us, but you girls never listened to me! Now look at where it got us. More importantly, where are your gems now?!" I clenched my fists, dolefully looked at Adagio, and my eyes glossed with tears, "Thousands of years ago, you girls left me helpless. I could've been killed during the Ponyville invasion you know, but here I stand, forgiving you for all the negative things you've done to me because you are my sisters, and I loved you!.."

I cried a river. Adagio stood up, and pulled me in for a comforting hug. As Sonata got out of the bathroom, she wore a sympathetic look on her face. She walked over to us, and joined in as well. Aria sighed, and looked away with eyebrows lowered. She couldn't help but followed respectively with a hug. As we all withdrew ourselves from each other, we sat back down on our seats. Adagio knew that she couldn't argue with me, and so did Aria, although she hates to admit it. Adagio cleared her throat, "So... I'm sensing you know who Twilight and Sunset is?"

I wiped the tears off my face, "Not really... But I come across them from time to time, specially that one bakery..."

Just when Aria was about to respond, Adagio waved her off. Adagio re-initialized, "Clair, we're not going to hold you back on anything anymore. It's entirely your choice. But lemme tell you something you may already know... With the life we have now, I don't think we'll ever get our gems back."

"... I understand..." I said quietly with downcast eyes, "But lemme at least think about it, ok?"

"That's okay, hun. We're not rushing into anything, but I'll tell you this... It's just a matter of time when your gem can take over the best of you... I mean, it's happening already.."

"What do you mean?"

Aria took a sip of her orange juice, "The sparkles, the lights, that whole passing out thing you've been experiencing through out the night, is just the beginning of a bad storm. But only you can stop it."

"But What's going to happen to me?"

Adagio replied, "When our gems were shattered, the spirits within them were released."

Aria finished Adagio's sentence, "And we believe that the spirits from our gems are now contained in yours."

I placed a palm on the side of my face with a downcast expression, "So, what... Would I turn evil or something?"

They all faintly nodded.

I paused in slight disappointment, "Oook.. Lets not think about that right now... I just wanna enjoy our moment together, that we finally reunited through all these years.. K?"

Sonata with a cheerful tone, "Sounds like a plan!" We all sat and continued eating our breakfast.

After breakfast, Aria and Sonata went straight to work. Today was Adagio's day off so she stayed home to do a couple of chores such as cleaning the dishes, laundries, and etc. I stayed with her for a bit to catch up on things of what we have been doing for the last thousands of years since the time we were first banished into this world, we laughed and reminisced. Adagio changed a lot. She was not the vicious Adagio that I knew once before. I'm theorizing that maybe not having the gem anymore has something to do with her behavioral change.

*Text Message*

"Is that your phone or mine?" Adagio questioned while washing the dishes.

I replied, "Mine.."

I moved to the dining area from the kitchen, pulled out my phone to an immediate text message from Moon Dancer: "3rd period is about to start in 10 mins, where r u?"

I sighed and thought of a lie for the time being, I drafted back a text, "Home, not feeling well today.."

"Oh, want me and Cuddle Bug 2 come over?"

"No, that's not necessary, ill see u girls tomorrow."

"U sure?"

"Positive :twilightsmile: ."

After concluding my text conversation with Moon Dancer, I swiped my phone to check another message that came through from Sandal Wood: "Sorry about last night, I don't know what happened, it seems like I fell into deep thought and fell asleep... newayz, I just wanted to send you a good morning text and hoping everything is ok on your end, :pinkiehappy: you have a good day, hope 2 hear from you soon."

I raised my eyebrow in puzzlement. Did he not remember what happened last night when Adagio showed up? I slid my phone back into my pocket, turned to Adagio with an expression of heedfulness, and with arms folded, "Adagio?..."

"Yes, hun.." As she continued to stack the plates into a plating rack.

"So... Just what did you do to my boyfriend last night?"

"That guy was your boyfriend?"

"Well, you did see us kiss, right?.. He doesn't seem to remember what had happened last night when you showed up.."

Adagio finalized her last set of plates on a rack, and turned around to face me with a sly grin, "I cast a memory spell."

My eyes completely widened, "You what?!"

"Clair, I did what I had to do.."

"So wait.. Does that mean our kiss never happened?!"

Adagio with a grimace, "Well... I may have overdone it?. . . ."

"But how?! I thought you lost all your power?!"

"I still have... Well... Whatever's left of it..."

"But Adagio! You could've done something else like... I don't know, like.. Just tell him that you were my grandma or something and that I had to go home because it was passed my curfew."

"Excuse me?!" Adagio with a quick retort.

"Oh c'mon, who are you trying to kid."

"No one... I may be a thousand years old, but I still have feelings ya' know.."

I plopped onto a nearby dining chair with a feeling of dismay, "Whatever... Good Grief... Story of my life..."

Adagio wiped her hands dry with a kitchen towel, and sat next to me, "What's so special about him?"

"He's... He's a very sweet guy..."

Adagio with an attempt to prove her point in a serious tone, "You do know that most human male beings in this world only want one thing... And that's to get into your pants."

"How would you know?"

"Trust me..."

I took a glance at the time-clock on the microwave, then suddenly remembered an errand that I had to take care of, which is to have my guitar repaired. I stood up from my seat and headed to the living room then grab my purse, "Hey Adagio, thanks for having me over, it was so nice to see you girls again. I gotta head home and catch up on some school work and get my guitar fixed. Call me later?"

"Ok... Oh by the way, you were wonderful on that performance the other night. I trained you well."

I slowly smiled at her, "Thanks, Adagio... It means a lot coming from you.." As I was getting ready to leave the apartment, I scanned the area for my thong-sandals, but I was unable to find them. I asked, "Where are my sandals?"

Adagio held back from laughter, "You might wanna ask Sonata about that..."

"Really now..." I let out a deadpan expression. I already have Cuddle Bug, sometimes even Moon Dancer, borrowing my stuff, and now Sonata too?

HUMANAVILLE
5:03PM; SAME DAY
HUMANA MUSIC STORE

"Ok... But you can just tell me the truth... Did you or did you not break you guitar again..." The lady at the front desk questioned with an eyebrow raised.

I sighed, "Yes ma'am, I broke it again.."

"Ok.. Explain to me how you play your guitar?..." I detected a slight unpleasant tone within her voice.

I looked at her blankly, then explained to her with sarcasm, "Ma'am... I usually sit on a vacant chair, with a guitar on my lap."

"Ok, but you actually 'DONT' sit on your guitar, right?"

"No ma'am.. Why would I do that?..." I remain with the same expression.

The lady shook her head in disappointment and picked up my guitar that was placed in front of her, "You do know these kinds of wood are hard to come by..."

I nodded with a sympathetic look on my face, "I do, and I'm very sorry."

"That's quite alright. I'll repair it again for you, no charge."

"Yay!"

The lady quickly halted, "But, it won't be ready until next week."

I slack-jawed, "One week?! I can't wait that long.."

"Sorry sweetie, we have so much orders we have to take care of. Your lucky enough I'm not charging you. So be patient."

I pouted with my arms let loose, "I guess I can't complain... I'll come back in a week."

The lady took the guitar and placed it in the back storage room for repair, "It might be less than a week, but I'll give you a call..."

"Thanks." I waved goodbye to her.

As I headed towards the exit of the store, I unintentionally bumped into a girl as she was coming in, knocking most of her flyers down. I gasped, then apologized, and knelt down to pick up the flyers from the floor, "Oh goodness, I'm so sorry, lemme pick those up."

The girl called for me, "Clair?"

I looked up as I heard her call my name, and there stood Sunset. As I finally picked up all of the flyers from the floor, I stood up and handed them to her, "Hi.. Sunset.." A moment of silence filled between us, I continued with words, "I was just about to leave..."

Sunset blocked my exit with her arms, "No, wait, I want to apologize for my behavior a couple of nights ago at the bakery."

"Apologize for what?"

"Well... I was kind of.. ya know... off."

"Oh, it's okay..." I focused on the flyers that she had on her hand, "So... There's an upcoming concert?"

"Oh yeah! There's going to be a Christmas musical show in about two weeks, you should come! Everyone is rallying about it."

My eyes widened with delight, "Really?!"

"Yes! my band is going to be performing. Say.. By the way.. Since we bumped into each other here, do you play an instrument?"

"Yeah, I do acoustic sessions at Griffonstone Pub every now and then."

"Really?! Then you should share your talent at the Christmas musical show, we can use more performers."

"Ehh, I don't know."

"Oh, c'mon, it's gon' be great!"

"Well, alright." I grinned.

"Awesome!" She handed me a flyer, "The dates are on the flyer. The only things we can provide you at the stage is a stool, a mic, and an amp though."

"Oh, ok.. Then we'll have no problem."

As I was reading the flyer, she smiled at me widely and re-initialized, "Well, we hope to see you then."

"Oh... Gee, thanks." I folded the flyer, and slipped it inside my coat pocket, "It was nice seeing you again, you have a good night, say hello to Twilight for me." I waved goodbye to Sunset as I finally made my exit out the music store.

I walked through the streets of Humanaville on my way home, while Sunset still had her eyes fixated on me from inside the music store window. She then wore a mischievous grin. She bickered to herself with words, "Yeah... I really hope she shows up, so The Rainbooms can defeat this last siren just like we did the others. May the battle of the bands.. Continue..."

Author's Note

Thanks again for reading up to this point, so what might happen next through out the chapter? feel free to comment your thoughts or whatever.

Chapter 8: Down for the Count

Two days later...

Senior year has been stressful these days, frustrated on the amount of work that piled just by missing one day of school, it was to the point that I was up all night trying to catch up on what I've missed. I'm just glad Moon Dancer was able to help me nail down some of my important projects, which is a requirement for graduation. Additionally, Cuddle Bug contributed her assistance on helping me with an art project. Lesson learned never miss another day of school.

Sandal Wood and I have been exchanging text messages since our last date, I had brought up the subject if he had remembered anything else other than passing out that night, unfortunately, it is not to his best recollection. I sensed a remorseful behavior within his text messages, I told him that it was alright and things do happen out of the ordinary, and that we should go out on a second date, only this time, I suggested a place.

Adagio called me yesterday to check up on me to see how things are going since our last meeting and if my gem had been acting weird lately. I told her that everything is fine. I spent an hour on the phone dissenting with her theory about what a siren's spirit can do, and how it has an ability to just leak out and migrate to another. Albeit, my gem illuminating does contribute to my past unexplained nights, but still doesn't supply sufficient evidence as to why.

HUMANAVILLE
1:36PM; FRIDAY
HUMANAVILLE HIGH SCHOOL (FIFTH PERIOD: P.E)

*Whistle Blow*

"Hey!" The gym teacher halted in a loud voice, and pointed at a team player for pushing an opposing player down, he continued with the same volume, "One more time, you'll be sitting on the bleachers next to the mummy and that purple-haired girl, got me?"

"Yes sir! It won't happen again!"

"Good, lets continue playing ball!" The gym teacher blew his whistle as a signal to resume the game of basketball.

I remain seated on the bleachers next to a classmate who wore a cast on both arms due to an injury of a skate board fall, as he claimed. His casts were molded in a degree that both his arms extended out, depicting a mummified zombie, hence why he was called 'the mummy' as an insult. I drew art-hearts on a notepad just to kill time until the period ends. I'm not an athletic girl, the last time I partook in P.E, I nearly got myself knocked the soul out of me when a student football player unintentionally rammed my body to a wall, and that was that, I decided not to partake in it anymore, at least in this school. Suddenly I felt something touching my hair, for a second, my thoughts automatically went to Sandal Wood, remembering the way he touched it before he drew in a gentle kiss. But it was the guy with the cast next to me, trying to communicate, "Oh... Sorry that I touched your hair, I only have one more week until I can take these stupid things off."

"It's quite alright.." I went back to sketching my random art.

"So, why aren't you playing?"

"I don't like basketball..."

He inspected my notepad, his eyes widened and smiled, "From your drawings there, I can already tell what kind of person you are."

I looked at him with a raised eyebrow, "What?.."

"You're soft."

"..The hell's that supposed to mean?.."

"Wait, wait, I didn't mean it that way.. What I'm trying to say is that you are soft, perhaps too soft, but can be very ambitious, strong, and will-powered when you absolutely need to be... eh?" He let out a wink, and pointed both his index fingers at me.

I shook my head and grinned, "You got all that from my sketch?"

"Yeah, I have friends who like to draw stuff on their notebooks just like you, and I'm always accurate about it. At least I think I am.. Well.. My friends told me that I am.."

I smiled at him, and fortuitously looked at the casts on both of his arms, "Why are you in school?... Aren't you supposed to be in a hospital healing up or something?"

"No can do amiga, I have been told that I've missed enough school days, and that if I missed anymore, I'll never graduate."

I let out a sympathetic look, "Oh... Well that's too bad.."

"Eh.. It's my fault anyway, I never should've skateboarded from a two-story high building to attempt a three-sixty.."

"WATCH OUT, WATCH OUT, WATCH OUT!" A random voice shouted out to me as the basketball suddenly hit my head hard, causing me to slightly go off balance. The person who shouted, ran straight to me and apologized, "Sorry... I guess someone thought you were the basketball hoop.."

"Umm... Ok?.." I rubbed my head to ease the pain from the ball hitting my head.

The teenage boy picked up the ball, and ran back to the basketball court to resume the game.

The awkwardness filled the space between me and the guy with a cast. However, by taking the plunge, he re-initiated with words, "Ummm... Do you need a cast? 'Cause I can help you with that if you want.."

At dismissal time, Moon Dancer, Cuddle Bug, and I rode our bicycles together on our way home. Since today was Friday, I suggested that they should sleep over at my place, Moon Dancer refused and proved a point that we all should sleep at her place instead as a favor in return for helping me with all of my school work, plus, she's making fajitas tonight because of the whole Fajita-Friday thing that became viral, which came to my surprise because Moon Dancer never cooked her whole life. So with that, we all agreed to the plan to meet at her place at around seven. Until then, we all went separate ways. As I bicycled through the path, I analyzed my thoughts on what to do for the rest of the remaining day until seven. Sandal Wood is working with his dad to help a family friend build a tree-house, so I didn't want to bother him with a text message, besides, we're scheduled to see each other on Sunday, and I'm very excited about it. I'm still waiting for a phone call from the lady at the music shop for my guitar repair, as it has been a week since I dropped it off. I'm hoping the guitar would be ready by tomorrow. Since I have not seen my sisters in almost a week, making an unplanned visit wouldn't be a bad thing. I pressed on my brakes, and took a sudden turn towards the direction of Adagio's apartment.

I parked my bicycle by one of the tall lamp posts in front of Adagio's apartment complex. As I locked my bicycle securely, I walked straight to the complex, and took a couple of flight of stairs towards the apartment room. I knocked as I got to the door, and heard a familiar voice from behind it, "I'm coming!" I heard a couple of footsteps followed by a loud thud during the process, "I'm okay!" The door finally opened, seeing Sonata standing right in front of me with a bright smile, "Clair!" She jumped in for a hug.

My voice quavered, "S.. Sonata, you're too heavy, please let go!.."

"Oh, sorry, I just had cake." Sonata re-positioned herself, and placed both her hands behind her back, "Don't just stand there, come in!" She took my hand and pulled me inside the apartment room, and closed the door behind us.

"Who was at the door, Sonata?" Aria's voice was heard across her bedroom while Sonata directed us to the living room.

"Clair is here!" Sonata replied to Aria in a loud voice.

Sonata and I sat down on the living room couch to a video game currently paused on TV. She then reached out to the living room table to grab a plate of cake. I questioned, "Sonata, I thought you already had cake.."

"I did, and now I'm having another one."

I contorted, "Sonata, don't eat too much of the sweet things... You gotta remember, you're human now.. and it can be bad for you..."

"Says who?!"

"Well, says everybody..."

"I promise, this will be my last piece!" She took a big bite of the cake, leaving remnants of frosting all over her mouth.

Aria finally showed up. As expected of Aria, she always had the anguish look in her eyes, I didn't think I ever saw her smile, but if I did, hell might have froze over. But she did wear her hair down today. "Hi Clair.."

"Hi Aria, how are you today?"

"Crappy... And hungry..." She turned to Sonata with her eyes widened, "What the hell Sonata?! You ate all the cake?!"

With her mouth full, "Yeah, and it was good!"

"Did you at least leave some for me and Adagio?.."

"Sorry..."

Aria face-palmed herself, "You really are the worse.."

Sonata swallowed her cake, and thought of a come-back, "Oh yeah?! You're a big meanie!"

"That's not even an insult, dummy."

I grimaced at both Sonata and Aria, then stopped them both from quarreling, "Girls!" They both looked at me seriously, "Where's Adagio?"

"Adagio went to get some food ingredients." Sonata stood up and walked directly to the kitchen to place her empty plate in the sink.

"And none of you girls went with her?"

"Adagio told us to stay home and keep an eye on the Sheppard's pie that's currently baking in the oven." Aria sat on a sofa adjacent to me.

"Oh, ok... Well, I just wanted to come by and say hello."

Sonata walked back from the kitchen, and leaped onto the couch-seat next to me, causing my body to bounce up slightly, "Stay for dinner."

"I can't, I have plans with friends tonight. I promised that I'll be spending the night with them."

Aria, with her arms crossed, she gazed at me with words, "You didn't really change much, did ya Clair..."

"Me?.. I don't know, why?"

"You were always the goody two-shoes among the three of us... Which is why you rebelled against us?"

"I never 'rebelled' against you girls." I sighed heavily, "Aria, are we gonna talk about this now?"

Sonata once again sensed an uncomfortable conversation between Aria and I, prompting to her resume her video game. Aria answered me with a glower, "Fine..."

I took a deep breath, and forced a smile, "Girls, I'm going to be singing at the Christmas Showcase in about two weeks, and I want you girls and Adagio to come and watch."

Sonata paused her game, "Really?!"

Aria rolled her eyes and bickered to herself loudly enough for me to hear, "Kill me now... Just kill me now.."

I comforted her with words, "Aria, I think it will be fun. Live life normal for once, you might like it." I unzipped my book bag, revealing three tickets and held it up to Sonata, "Sonata, these are the tickets to the showcase. Do not lose these, alright?"

Sonata nodded, "Mmhmm!" I then handed the tickets to her.

I ascended from the couch, zipping my book bag then wore the strap on my right shoulder, "Wish I can stay girls, but I'm going to be late at my friend's sleep over."

Sonata stood up and gave me a hug goodbye, "Come back again, and please spend the night here sometime." We liberated ourselves from our hug, but continued with alluring words, "If you spend the night here, I'll give you my bed."

"Thanks Sonata, but you don't need to do that." I then turned to Aria, who remain seated at the sofa looking away with a disdainful expression. She should know better that being all negative her whole eternity will get her nowhere, of course it's not in my place to school her because she's older than me. Adagio is making progress, Sonata became more free-minded than before, but she still dwelled in the past thinking that she has another shot of conquering the world without the use of her gem. "Tell Adagio I'll call her later." I smiled at Aria. With the same expression, she faced me with no words of response. With my puzzled look I continued with words, "Ummm, okay?... Well... I'll see you girls again, love ya."

"Love you too!" Sonata in a delightful tone.

I walked straight to the apartment door, and made my exit.

HUMANAVILLE
7:02PM; SAME EVENING
MOON DANCER'S APARTMENT

An hour has passed since my arrival, laughing and telling each other random news stories about what had happened this week during school. Moon Dancer was in the kitchen making fajitas, I offered an assistance for any help necessary, but waved me off as she claimed that she got it all taken care of. As we waited patiently until dinner, Cuddle Bug thought of an idea to paint my toenails for fun. I was skeptical on how it would turn out because I've always went to a nail salon rather than having it done by a friend. We both sat on the floor, and didn't even bother offering me an option of colors for my nails as she frantically began painting one of them red. I giggled, "Cuddle Bug, you sure you know what you're doing? Your literally tickling me.."

Cuddle Bug with her serious face, "Hold still, Clair... I'm trying to concentrate.."

Moon Dancer from across the kitchen, "So how's everything coming along with Sandal Slip?"

I turned to Moon Dancer with a sigh of impassiveness, "Each time you mention his name incorrectly, it never ceases to amaze me... It's Sandal Wood..."

"Yeah him!"

"Y... Yeah, it's going great."

Cuddle Bug who remain engrossed with painting my right big toe, "He's a lucky guy.."

I raised a single eyebrow at Cuddle Bug, "Oh? And how would you think so?..."

"Let's face it. You're smart, sweet, talented, very pretty, and have cute toes!" Cuddle Bug chuckled as she dipped the nail polish brush into the red polisher container, "You're a hot commodity. I bet ya' fifty bucks I already know what's in his mind."

Moon Dancer and I exchanged glances. Moon Dancer let out a smirk and a shoulder shrug, "Don't look at me, ask her.." Moon Dancer continued to prepare the shredded beef on the side plate.

I crossed my arms and let out an etched smile, "Alright Cuddle Bug the mind reader, tell me what's in his mind then?..."

"Sex."

Moon Dancer let out a loud chuckle, "Please tell me you knew that, Clair!"

With my chagrined expression, I begged to differ, "Cuddle Bug... You're the second person who said that to me, and you know what?.. You're wrong."

"To each its own.." As Cuddle Bug continually began painting my second toenail.

I divulged in words to both of the girls, "Girls, you haven't even met the guy. Wouldn't it be fair to give him the benefit of the doubt, before assuming that he's one of the most wanted Humanaville's sexual predator?... I'm sure, you'd change your mind about him." I formed a mischievous grin, "Or maybe... You girls are just jealous?"

Moon Dancer began preparing the first fajita by tucking the shredded beef into the folded wrap, "Clair... We're not jealous, least I'm not... We're just looking out for you. I know what you're thinking, he is nice and all bla bla bla... But everybody is at the beginning.. Until they finally show their true colors. C'mon Clair, I shouldn't have to tell you this, even Cuddle Bug here knows."

Cuddle Bug paused from painting my toenails and quizzically glanced at Moon Dancer, "Really?.."

Moon Dancer turned around fully from finalizing her first fajita dish, "It's not rocket science." She followed up with a faint grin.

"Is that why you're still single?" Cuddle Bug replied.

I tucked my lip in and snorted out with laughter, and covered my mouth with my palms.

"No, it's called being smart." Moon Dancer turned back on preparing the fajitas, "Look Clair, what I'm trying to say is... Don't rush into things, let it marinate, truly find out who this guy really is before you give up your flower. Because if Sandal Wood did not turn who you expected, you'll be crying to me or Cuddle Bug how much of an asshole he would be... And we don't want that." As Moon Dancer finished preparing the first fajita, she moved on to start preparing the second, "Oh and Cuddle Bug.. To fully answer your question, I'm single because I need to be. I'm chosen to be the valedictorian at school, so my time is limited from all the lovey dovey stuff, not to mention, the colleges that I need to apply for and maintaining my scholarship... Yep... Education is always first."

Not realizing Moon Dancer giving us a bit of a pep talk, I fixated on my own toenails, making sure Cuddle Bug was painting it right, "Cuddle Bug, you better not mess this up, I have a date again this Sunday night."

"Could you stop whining? I got this."

Moon Dancer rolled her eyes as she finished preparing the final fajita, "Why do I even bother giving you girls inspirational advice if you're aren't even listening.."

Cuddle Bug and I paused for a moment. I then apologized, "Sorry... You're right, you're right.. I'll have to learn how to take things slow."

"Anyway... I'm going to need help bringing the food on the table, can you girls give me a hand?" Moon Dancer picked up one of the plates of mini fajitas that's all prepared and ready to be served, and brought it to the dining table. I inspected the artwork Cuddle Bug has done so far with my toenails, it was to my surprise that it's coming out beautifully and I would've never thought that the color red would look so cute. I contorted at the fact that we will have to stop for the time being, and continue painting the rest after dinner. Cuddle Bug and I ascended from the floor, and helped Moon Dancer bring the rest of the food to the dining table.

As we all sat together on the table, Cuddle Bug initiated a bite of her fajita, which made her eyes widened in delight. "Oh.. My.. Word... This stuff is amazing, MD!" She took another big bite, "You should become a chef."

Moon Dancer and I chuckled, then took a bite of our fajitas as well. "Mmm... It really is.. It's tasty."

Moon Dancer swallowed her food, and took a sip of her soda, "Thanks." She grinned, and took another bite.

I placed my fajita down on a plate for a moment to make a short announcement, "By the way, there's going to be a Christmas showcase that will be held in about less than two weeks, and I want you girls to come."

Moon Dancer ripped a piece of a fajita wrap with her fingers, and ate it, "Really?"

Cuddle Bug questioned, "Why do you want us to go?"

I took another small bite of my fajita, "Because I'll be performing too."

"Oh, ok, that's nice!" Moon Dancer with a smile, "Christmas is my favorite time of year, so I wouldn't miss it for the world."

"Me too." Cuddle Bug nodded along, "Consider us there!" Cuddle Bug amazingly devoured her whole fajita in one sitting after two bites.

"Damn little lady, you sure can put it away!" Moon Dancer with a grimace. Cuddle Bug did nothing but laugh.

Whether it was right or wrong introducing both my best friends to my sisters at the Christmas music show, but it's still a working progress. At least I know I'm starting somewhere to help my sisters regain the lost ground. I believe they will think of the world more differently, realizing the good in people if they would just give it a chance. I worry less about Sonata as she was born to be an innocent creature such as myself, but she's known to follow Adagio's footstep no matter what because she is, after all, the oldest sister.

I spent almost the whole productive weekend with Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug, contemplating on various types of dresses I should purchase from the mall for my date with Sandal Wood. It was actually the first thing on our agenda, but the rest of our plans were postponed due to the limited time we had, and most store business hours closing early on weekends, but we did go bowling. Cuddle Bug was frustrated that we we're unable to go on a sling shot ride that she's been rallying about the whole entire week. But we were so beat and couldn't stand on our feet any longer. We didn't arrived in Moon Dancer's place till ten o' clock, but we had quite a blast considering most of the time spent was in 'Forever twenty-one'.

It is now Sunday, and I Suggested to have a dinner date with Sandal Wood here at my place tonight. I'm not one to brag, but considering how tiny my apartment room is, I've always kept my house sparkling clean, and uncluttered. Thanks to Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug for helping me yesterday to pick out the right dress for tonight. It was cute and simple, I wore a simple graphic tee with words in writing: "PIZZA IS MY BAE" and a pleated pink mini skirt. I contemplated whether I should wear shoes or not, but since Cuddle Bug did a beautiful job painting my toenails, I may as well remain barefoot and show it off to Sandal Wood. I've prepared a delicious meal that would complement perfectly on our date, I made a cozy chicken piccata served with fettuccine alfredo receta. I've really overdone myself tonight for a guy I really like, despite of the warnings from Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug.

*Knock Knock Knock*

Just as I finished positioning my finest plates on the table, it was perfect timing for my boyfriend's arrival. I scampered along towards my apartment door, and daintily opened it. There stood Sandal Wood in front of me with a bouquet of daisies. He looked so handsome. He drew in close and granted me a kiss on the cheek. He relinquished a bright smile, "Hi Clair, these are for you." He handed me the bouquet of flowers, I then appreciated the heavenly scent dispersing through my nasal cavity.

I coyly smiled back at him, "Thank You, I love daisies. You're so sweet." I took his hand and gently pulled him into my apartment room, "Come in, come in!" Then closed the apartment door as he entered. "Make yourself at home, have a seat by the living room couch if you like, I'm just going to quickly place these daisies in a vase of water." I walked towards the kitchen table and began removing the plastic wrappings from the flowers.

Sandal Wood followed me into the kitchen, then gazed at my back while I began placing the daisies into the purple vase, he grinned, "You look really beautiful tonight."

As I finished placing all of the daisies into the vase, I turned around facing him, balancing back a smile with words, "Thank You." I then slowly walked towards the dining table, urging him to sit down, "Let's eat, I made something special that I hope you'll like."

"Of course, I'll eat anything you make, I'm not a picky eater, as you can already tell on our first date at that restaurant." He giggled, then took a seat by the table across from where I stood.

"Yep, but tonight, I made something extra special." I sat by the table across from him with legs crossed, then removed the plate-cover from the serving plate centered on the table, revealing my finest homemade food. The delicious scent circulated between me and Sandal Wood.

His eyes widened in awe, "Oh my, Clair... This looks soooo good!"

I laid my elbows on the table, then tucked both my palms under my chin, and let out a squinty smile, "I remember you devoured the pasta on our first date, so I figured I make pasta and chicken tonight."

"You're such a nice person, you know you didn't have to do all this just for me, I'm fine with something cheap."

"Aw It's alright, I was feelin' up for cooking anyway. Plus cooking soothes me.. So don't feel bad."

Another reason why I've chosen my own place for a date night instead of somewhere public, it's for the sake of Adagio not randomly showing up again during our romantic time together. We both served each other the delicious dish, and began eating our meals while engaged in our own peaceful conversation.

Two hours later, we were so immersed in our own conversation, having forgotten the time it is already passed Sandal Wood's curfew, but he didn't care. He desired to continue conversing, but I had to emphasize the fact that we have school tomorrow, and that we can't stay up too late. He pouted, and so did I. But there's always next time.

We both still remain seated, but I concluded our conversation, "Well, I really had fun!"

"Me too, lets do this again some time?"

"Of course, but next time you suggest a place." I relinquished a wink and a smile, "Surprise me, like you did with the daisies.."

We both steadily laid our eyes on each other for a long while, sensing each other's emotions. Sandal Wood re initiated, "I don't wanna leave.."

I felt my heart beating a little faster than usual, and swallowed my own saliva, "Yeah but... We have school Sandal Wood."

Sandal Wood sensed my instincts, "Clair, I know you don't want me to leave either. You can just say it."

I looked away, and nervously took a deep breath, "I.. I don't know what you're talkin' about..." My thoughts lingered.

Sandal Wood stood up from his chair across from me, then transitioned himself to another dining chair, adjacent to where I sat, which is much closer. I slowly ascended from my seat as he took my hand, and sat on his lap with my arms around his neck. My heart began racing again. Our emotions grew much hotter than the last time we were at Humanaville pond. His enchanting eyes locked into mine, and let out words in a very low voice, "Are you okay?"

I nervously nodded, "Mmhmm.."

Sandal Wood's forehead touched mine softly, and I could feel his soft, warm breath against my fluttering eyes. Hesitantly, I lifted my head, unsure of what to do. A cold, tender hand slid down the side of my neck, bringing me much closer. Seconds ticked and soon, his soft, fine lips pressed against my own. I jumped by his sudden action, but slowly gave in. I moaned and so did he. I'm an eight-hundred thousand year old siren, one would think that I would've experienced everything, but this is my first. I felt my body levitate on a mid-high point, realizing that he was gently carrying me while his lips were kept in tact with mine, towards the living room couch. We both comfortably laid on the couch. He was on top, and I was under him. As we were both still savoring the moment of our kiss, he brought his hand up to cup my cheek, his thumb running along the curve of my cheekbone. I nestled into his hand, feeling his warmth seep into mine. He then shifted slightly lower, softly kissing my neck. In this moment of time, Moon Dancer's words began roaming through my head about how not to rush into things with him, but at the same time, appreciating my alone time with Sandal Wood as I felt his hand slowly grazing up my breasts from under my shirt. I gasped in a very low brittle voice, "Sandal Wood..." It was difficult to resist the ecstatic sensation under my shirt as he finally reached the tip of my nipples, but I still managed to continue with words, "I... . . ." I then forged the third time, "I'm not ready yet.." Sandal Wood paused for the sake of my words. And slowly moved back in a sitting position in complete deadpan.

I then slowly sat back up respectively, "Sandal Wood, I'm very sorry.." I let out a doleful look on my face, and shifted my body beside him. He remain seated with both of his hands on his lap, and his eyes fixated on the ground. I drew in close, and wrapped my arms around his with the same expression, "Are you mad at me?.."

Seconds later, he answered in expressionless tone, "No, it's not you... It's me.."

"Sandal Wood... We can keep on going if you want to..."

He shook his head, with the same tone, "I don't want you to feel forced, Clair.. You're a nice girl, and you deserve respect."

My eyes began to gloss with tears, "You are mad... It's all written all over your face... I'm sorry I ruined your night.." I began sniffling.

Sandal Wood then let out a sympathetic expression and comforted me with a warm hug, "Clair... Don't worry about me, it's just one of those nights, that's all."

I looked up at him, and wiped some tears off of my eyes, "What do you mean?"

Sandal Wood sighed, "... I can't say. But I gotta go, it's getting late." Sandal Wood stood up from the couch, then began putting on his coat.

"Why won't you tell me? I'm your girlfriend..." Our thoughts lingered.

Sandal Wood concluded, "I gotta go, Clair.. You have a good night, and thanks for dinner." He stormed out of my apartment, and slammed my door.

It was that moment I knew I should've just kept on going, and it was all Moon Dancer to blame for, not to mention, even Adagio.

Author's Note

And that's 8... Thanks for reading!

Chapter 9: Christmas Time is Here

A week later...

The streets of Humanaville, more cluttered than usual, due to people planning their Christmas shopping the last week before Christmas day. Thankfully, I've already done my part of Christmas shopping last week. Even so, it's the jolliest time of year, where everyone is merry and joyful, including myself. The span of my time being here, Christmas is my favorite holiday, it's not because of the gifts, but it's the day that everyone spends quality time with their loved ones.

Sandal Wood apologized to me in person about his strange behavior on our last date night. He claims that whenever he becomes embarrassed, it's his adverse affect by acting sulky. I questioned him why he would be embarrassed to the conception that I wasn't ready to take our relationship to the next step. His answer to that was because he's a guy, and it's in their DNA for men to get all pissy if they don't get what they want. It wasn't an answer I expected, so I had to ask if he's ever going to change that delinquent part of him, and he agreed.

The Christmas music show will be in two days, it was doubly special for me knowing that my friends, my sisters, and Sandal Wood would be there to watch me perform. I've practiced everyday since I finally got my guitar back in good shape. The lady at the music shop made a joking remark when I went to pick up my guitar, informing me that she had placed a bet with a friend about me breaking the guitar for the third time. "So you're making a bet out of my misery.." She laughed at me with words, "Third time will be an unlucky charm." I guess she owns all rights to give me an insult, for all that, I've been getting my guitar repaired free of charge.

As excited as I am to perform, I'm interested as well finding out the performance Sunset and her friends will have that day. Sunset isn't that bad as I thought she would be, considering her audacious behavior a couple of weeks ago since my last meeting with her and Twilight, but I'm not one to hold a grudge on someone, besides, she did apologize.

HUMANAVILLE
4:32PM; TUESDAY
ADAGIO'S APARTMENT

Lately, I've spent a couple of nights at Adagio's place, sharing the same bed with Sonata, taking advantage of my one-week holiday break from school. Adagio, bossy as ever, gave us a list of things to do every now and then: Sonata was in charge of the Laundry, Aria was in charge of food shopping, and I was told to pick out a movie from the Redbox kiosk every night to watch after our usual dinner. After spending a couple of nights with my sisters, I've come to learn their way of life in this human world, it was conventional. I'm well certain they're now understanding how precious life can be. It only took them thousands of years to realize, after their gems were destroyed.

While Adagio was in the kitchen preparing dinner for tonight, Sonata and I sat on the living room couch, supervising me on a video game called 'Grand Theft Auto Five'. Aria was in her room, finishing up her work-related project on her computer. But when she finishes, she promised to come with us to Hobby Lobby and purchase some decorations for the Christmas tree.

"NOO!!! Look what you made me do!" I grunted at Sonata with disappointment, when my character in the game was suddenly sent to oblivion by falling off a ten-story building, "Just what was I doing up there anyway?"

Sonata placed a palm on her mouth, to refrain from laughter, "It's a part of the mission, you were supposed to snipe the guy from the other side of the rooftop."

Adagio in a standard tone from across the kitchen, "Girls, I need you both to keep it down please. Last thing I want to happen is the neighbor to come knock on our door..."

"Okay." Sonata and I replied to Adagio in unison.

While Adagio was chopping shallots on a cutting board, she appointed to me with words, "Clair, don't you have any homework to do?"

Sonata and I exchanged glances, then continued playing the game with a reply, "Adagio, I don't get any homework during winter break..."

Adagio paused halfway from chopping the shallots, "You're not just saying that so you can keep playing that game, are ya?"
"Wait, what the hell?... NOOO!!!" I attempted the same mission in the game, but rather than falling off a ten-story building, a gang member stabbed my character from behind. Sonata covered her whole face with a pillow, and laughed hysterically.

Adagio abruptly dropped her kitchen utensils, "Ok, that does it." She stormed out of the kitchen towards the living room with furious rage, "You girls have been playing that stupid game for eight hours! It's about time you girls go outside and get some fresh air." Adagio unplugged the 'PS4' then eyeballed at us once again, "Ya know, we still have to decorate our tree... And we can't decorate it because..." Adagio urged one of us to finish her sentence.

Sonata with a quizzical expression, "Umm... I don't know.."

"Because we don't have any decorations!" Adagio, loud and clear, had made an obvious point to both me and Sonata.

"I need you girls to get your asses up, get dressed, and take Aria with you to Hobby Lobby, RIGHT NOW!"

Sonata and I pouted, "Fine.." We said in unison. Sonata walked straight to her room to get changed. Since I'm already dressed and bundled up for the cold weather, I took my phone out of my pocket to read a text message reply from Sandal Wood.

"Clair, you're not going to die without a phone..."

"Adagio, can you please calm down?"

Adagio reached her hand out, "Nope... Just for that, hand over your phone..."

"What? Hell no!"

"Give.. It.. To.. Me.. Now."

"But what happens if I need to call you?"

"You act like you're the only with a cell phone here.." Adagio raised a single eyebrow and crossed her arms, "Ya know, if you don't hand over your phone, no dessert tonight... It's your call."

Aria from across her bedroom, "Oh my frickin' gawd, Just give her your damn phone, Clair!"

I sighed heavily, "Ughhhh, fine!" I handed her over my phone, "But I need it back as soon as we get home, though."

"I'll give it back when I want to, how's that..." Adagio slid my phone in her pocket, "You girls better get going before it gets late."

I guess some things about Adagio hasn't changed one bit. Being the oldest of us all, she's the undisputed matriarch of our existence as a siren, which she literally raised us like the children of her own. So it came naturally for her to be strict and protective over us, especially for Sonata.

I shouted, "SONATA! Lets go! The sooner we get things done, the sooner I get my phone!"

Aria walked towards me and Adagio from her bedroom, while tying her hair in a double pony-tail, "Let's just go.. She always slows us down..."

Adagio quickly retorted, "No, I need you girls to stick together like glue, and I need you both to keep an eye on her... She's always known to wander off.."

Aria huffed out of laughter, "Just like Clair back in the day when she just needed to get fresh air?"

I looked at Aria in hostility, "That's not funny..."

"I'm ready!" Sonata hastily walked out from her bedroom, all dressed up in her winter clothing. She jumped for joy, "Yay! Lets go! I love shopping for Christmas stuff."

"Hold on." Adagio approached Sonata, then rearranged her scarf that was placed around her neck, "Ya know Sonata, I can't keep lookin' out for you all the time..." Sonata then let out a squee smile.

Adagio with her arms crossed, "You girls better be here on time for dinner."

We all advanced towards the apartment door exit, "We got this, we'll be back on time, buhbye." I replied as Aria and Sonata went ahead of me outside of the apartment door, I then followed after, and shut the door behind me.

HUMANAVILLE
5:30PM; SAME DAY
HOBBY LOBBY

"This is why I hate shopping with Sonata.." Aria rolled her eyes.

I wore a faint grin in response to Aria's words, "Oh c'mon Aria, it's not that bad."

Aria raised her single eyebrow, "Not that bad? Take a good look at her cart again.."

We all sauntered through the long aisle where all various Christmas decorations were displayed. Sonata was leading us with a cart filled with a ridiculous amount of ornaments, wreathes and garlands, and Christmas stockings. She even took eleven tree toppers when we only needed one.

Aria in a standardized voice, "Hey Sonata, who's going to pay for all that?..."

Sonata in a cheerful tone, "Us! Silly..."

"You're not thinking of buying the whole store, are ya?"

Sonata continually hummed to herself, and inspected the small apple cinnamon scented Christmas candle from the candle rack display, "Wouldn't that be awesome?!"

"Oh c'mon!"

I giggled, "That's what you get for patronizing her."

"I don't know how you can deal with her attitude, Clair..."

"Well?... But have you wondered sometimes that the problem can sometimes be you? Not Sonata?"

"Excuse me?!"

"No, I didn't mean it that way.."

"Shut up, you're not helping... You can be a pain in my ass too."

"What I meant to say was.."
"I said shut up, this conversation is over." Aria cut me off with words, she grunted and looked away.

As we finally reached the end of the aisle, Sonata concluded the list of things we needed to get for the night, and led us to the check-out desk.

*Aria's cell phone rings*

Aria pulled her cell phone out of her pocket, then answered, "Yes Adagio."

Adagio's voice was heard from the other side of her phone, "You girls alright?"

"Yeah, stupid Sonata here almost bought the whole store..."

Sonata with her eyebrows lowered, she placed both her hands on her hips with a quick retort in a loud tone, "Hey!"

We were waiting for a long time at the check-out line, some people leered over our direction with grimaces on their faces. Aria has the tendency to talk loudly when she's on the phone, and hardly even notices it. Which therefore prompted me to halt her with words to lower her volume, "Aria, you're too loud... You gotta keep it down... I would like to come back here sometime.."

Aria waved me off, and continued speaking with Adagio on the phone with the same volume of tone, "We're at the check-out line now. People here are taking so frickin' long!"

Everyone in the store suddenly stopped in motion, then bore into us after Aria's loud words. That was that, I don't think I'll ever come back to Hobby Lobby again, at least not for a long time. Aria and I apprehended that Sonata would be the one to cause a scene, but alternatively, it was Aria.

An hour and a half later, Adagio slack-jawed on how much decorations Sonata had bought as we finally arrived at the apartment. Aria exclaimed as to never shop with Sonata again during the holidays due to that reason. As the moments pass, we all agreed to decorate the tree after dinner. Those two hours spent at Hobby Lobby, sure made me hungry. Adagio made her special honey baked ribs with a side of french fries, and a salad. We gathered around the table, and enjoyed our dinner as we conversed.

HUMANAVILLE
5:02PM; FRIDAY
CHRISTMAS MUSIC SHOW

There was still twenty-eight minutes left to spare before the introduction. I was astounded to see the amount of people showed up. The performance was held in an auditorium at the public library of Humanaville, the eighth largest library in the world. Even so, the place was totally packed. My confidence began to diminish whether I made the right choice to perform in front of this many people. If I only knew, I would have never came, but since I'm already here, I may as well wing it to the end and get it over with. "Clair!" I heard a familiar voice from where I stood on the side-stage, noticing both Cuddle Bug and Moon Dancer with their casual attire, approaching from a mid-distance. They both then gave me a hug, Cuddle Bug with a melodic tone, "♫There's like so many people here♫" Cuddle Bug with an expression of delight.

Moon Dancer joined in with a grin, "Are you nervous?"

I laughed nervously, "Are you kidding me? I've never performed in front of this many people before..."

"Aw c'mon, Clair, it's like you do this in your sleep. Just picture everyone naked when you're on stage."

Cuddle Bug barked out of laughter, "Remember that one time, Clair went to that little social group: Putting your foot down with Iron Will?"

I looked at Cuddle Bug blankly, "Yeah... That group was just terrible..."

As I surveyed beyond the front door of the auditorium, three of my sisters appeared from it, then stood by a nearby pillar. They looked a little confused and lost. "Hey girls, would you excuse me for a minute? I have some people I need to introduce to the two of you." I scampered from the side of the auditorium, headed towards my sisters. "Adagio, Sonata, Aria!" Sonata turned to my voice, then she gave Adagio and Aria a nudge, pointing to my direction. They were also in casual attire.

"Clair!" Sonata jumped in a hug as her usual sisterly greeting, with her weight that I can barely even hold for another second or two.

"Sonata, if you hurt me, I won't be able to perform tonight.."

She let out a squinty grin, "Oh, sorry again!"

Adagio crossed her arms, "So just how long is this performance going to take?"

"I'm not sure, probably two hours maximum?.."

Aria feeling annoyed, "If I still had my power, I can fast-forward time.."

Adagio chuckled, "Even if we had our powers, we wouldn't be able to anyway... So I don't know what you're talkin' 'bout..."

I looked at Aria with a single eyebrow raised and crossed my arms, "Aria, could you at least be prideful of your little sister for once?... I mean c'mon... I'm performing in front of so much people.."

Adagio deliberately gazed on my neck with words, "Where's your gem?.."

Suddenly Cuddle Bug and Moon Dancer verged upon us unexpectedly. Cuddle Bug reached out to Adagio for a handshake, "Hi! I didn't know if Clair had forgotten to introduce us, so we came here instead. I'm Cuddle Bug!" Adagio stared at her blankly, then me.

A moment of pause, I then began the introductions, "Oh, by the way, these are my sisters: Adagio, Aria, and Sonata."

Moon Dancer's eyes widened, and her jaw dropped, "Sisters?!"

"Hello there!" Sonata in a delightful tone, she then took the initiative to give Cuddle Bug the handshake instead.

I continued, "And these are my best friends: Cuddle Bug and Moon Dancer."

Moon Dancer let out a nervous laughter, then waved a hello, "Nice meeting you, Um, Clair has a lot to tell me about you girls, I had no idea she had sisters..."

Aria with her same usual expression, "Yeah... She doesn't talk about us much.." She fiddled at her own fingers.

Cuddle Bug leered over to Aria's direction, and made a random comment, but in a cheerful tone, "So uh, you must be the girl version of the grinch or something?"

Aria clenched her fist with teeth-grinding anguish expression. I knew Aria would be the first to implode, and I knew it would be at Cuddle Bug because she and Sonata are so similar in many ways. "Aria, please don't take it to heart, Cuddle Bug sometimes doesn't know how to use her filter." I lowered my eyebrows at Cuddle Bug.

Cuddle Bug shrugged and tilted her head, "What?!"

I face palmed through out this awkward moment, and wished that I could just rewind time and forget about introducing my friends and my sisters.

"Hey Clair." A familiar voice was heard behind me, I turned, and there stood Sandal Wood smiling right at me with a cute teddy bear and a box of chocolates for me. He approached in a peck on my lips, he held my hand, and we smiled at the girls. They all stared back at us in complete deadpan.

Another moment of pause, Adagio re-initialized, "So uh, are you going to tell us who this guy is, or just smile and look stupid..."

My thoughts lingered for a bit, then my brain finally clicked, "Oh! This is my boyfriend, Sandal Wood!"

Everyone in flat unison, "Ohh okay..."

Sandal Wood's eyes widened as he familiarized the three girls who tried to manipulate him, along with the other students at Canterlot High School a month ago. His grin began to deform to an irritable expression on his face, "You girls again..."

I was perplexed at Sandal Wood's words, "Huh? What's wrong, sweetie?"

"These girls... They were the ones who tried to control our minds a month ago!"

Adagio and Aria raised their eyebrows at Sandal Wood.

*Introductory fanfare music*

Sonata was amused by the sound of the medieval fanfare music, "Ooooo! This music brings me sooo much nostalgia!"

I hushed Sonata, then made everyone aware that the show will start right after the introduction, "Ok guys, the show is about to begin, ya'll better sit down."

Sandal Wood looked a little bothered at the fact that my sisters were here, which prompt him with words, "Clair, we got a lot to talk about..."

"I know, and I promise to talk to you after the performance, honey." I swung around, then ran towards the backstage of the auditorium, and permitted myself through the stage curtains.

Meanwhile, The Rainbooms had sat there instruments at a theater right above the crowd, across the auditorium stage where the music performance is held. The Rainbooms sneaked into the theater on a high-point just for one purpose, and that is to defeat me. All the members of the Rainbooms, with the exception of Twilight Sparkle, readied their instruments to prepare for an ambush of their melodic sounds. They waited.

Sunset fixated on me from up above as I walked towards the back stage, "There she is.." She pointed her out to The Rainbooms, "She's the fourth siren, girls."

Apple Jack, while tuning her bass guitar, "Are ya sure?.. She looks innocent to me, Sugarcube..."

"I'm telling you... She is the fourth siren, she has that gem around her neck... It's only a matter of time when she will plot her attack... Deja Vu, anyone?.." Sunset peered around her Mane five friends, trying to prove a point.

Rainbow Dash strummed a random note on her guitar in a low volume, "Well, if she is indeed the bad guy, our music will still kick her siren butt, isn't that what the magic of friendship is for?.."

"Right, but we gotta time it right." Sunset reputed.

Rarity fiddling her own fingernails, "Girls, it's getting really stuffy in here, if I sweat enough, these clothes will get ruined.."

Sunset looked at Rarity blankly, "Rarity, I don't think it would matter, no one knows we're here anyway..."

As the introduction fanfare ended, the stage curtains opened to an immediate music performer who sat on a high stool with a unique instrument that's made out of an actual vegetable carrot, an ocarina. She made a short speech of introduction explaining how the instrument was made, and why she made it. As she concluded her explanation, she played the rendition of a song called Chandelier by Sia.

An hour had passed, and there were numerous of performers before me, but I'm next in line. My thoughts lingered on Sunset and her friends. I could've sworn she told me that her band was going to perform tonight, or maybe I heard wrong. Maybe her organisation for this Christmas show had worn her out and decided to take a rain-check for tonight, I can only imagine considering the amount of people that are present.

"The next performer we have for tonight, is a high school student from Humanaville: Clair De Lune!"

The loud speaker that surrounded the auditorium had called out my name as the next performer, everyone eased in an introductory applause. I was very nervous. I took a deep breath, then slowly walked while I held my guitar with a shoulder strap on my right shoulder, towards the high stool positioned at the center. I sat on it without a quiver, hoping that I wouldn't have to break my guitar the third time. Otherwise, the lady at the music store wins the bet. I pulled the mic closer to me, and made an introductory of words, "Hi everyone, I will be singing a song I made up just for Christmas, it's called Christmas time is Here. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I enjoyed composing it." I counted with a metronome of beats; 1, 2, 3, 4:

The reaction of the crowd was predictable as always; a short moment of silence, then a single clap was heard from the large crowd, the second followed until it all developed onto a loud, but long round of applause. People began standing up, continuously applauding for my performance for a long span of time. I bowed in appreciation for giving me the moral support, and smiled brightly. Sunset's rage grew when she noticed that I didn't have the gem worn around my neck, she couldn't hold herself back so she finally revealed herself in front of the audience, then shouted out my name with an insult. The audience suddenly stopped clapping, and turned their heads around to the sound of the voice up above them, "Clair! Nice try, you know you can't get away with this, once a siren, always a siren, show us your true form!" Sunset drew in a little closer to the edge with confidence, "Stop trying to hold back!" The audience turned their heads back, quizzically gazing at me. I blushed, and my eyes began to gloss in humiliation. I was puzzled as to why Sunset would shout out those words of profanity in front of the whole crowd, as if I've done something so morally wrong. The loud whispers within the crowd was heard right before me. I wasn't sure how to react, but there was one thing to do, which I'm really good at: Is run away. I positioned my guitar to my backside, carrying it like a cross body backpack, and ran out of the exit through the backdoor of the auditorium. It was very cold and snowy out. The ground was all covered with thick layers of snow, so it took some effort to keep up on my own pace. As I was distanced away from the library, I stopped for a minute, noticing a little weight around my neck. To my complete horrific surprise, my gem magically appeared. "What the?! Impossible! I know I hid my gem in my jewelry box back at home!" I held my gem, and inspected it.

"Clair!" Sonata's voice was heard in a mid distance. I turned around and saw the rest of my friends and my sisters approaching near. "What happened back there?!" As my eyes were still fixated on my gem, the gem glowed instantly, sending rays of light haphazardly in every direction. The effect of this unknown magical power sent an indescribable pain through my heart, causing me to scream.

"Clair!" Adagio's voice was too soft. The light gleamed brighter and brighter, then seconds lapsed, the illumination had stopped instantly. Adagio drew near a couple of inches from me, and placed her palm on my shoulder, "Clair... What was that?... I've never..." Adagio's sentence was cut off short to a sudden thrust of my palm against her chest with incredible power, causing her body to knock back in a far distance. She faltered to the ground, covered in snow. She vomited blood and fell unconscious.

"Adagio!!!" Sonata cried out loud, then the rest of my friends and my sisters ran quickly near to provide aid.

Aria with a worried look on her face, she knelt down beside Adagio and cuffed both her palms on her face with trembling words, "Adagio, snap out of it." Aria's eyes shined with tears, "Adagio, tell us what we need to do, dammit, we still need you!" With no words of response from Adagio, she was completely knocked unconscious. Aria looked up at the rest of my friends, "We need to go to the hospital now."

Sonata sobbed heavily while hugging Adagio. Moon Dancer, Cuddle Bug, and Sandal Wood, had no clue on what just happened. But Moon Dancer was the first to notice my transformation. My eyes appeared glowing red, with no color separating from the pupil. After a minute or two, my transformation dissipated. My eyes turned back to normal once again, but my body collapsed on the ground.

Author's Note

Phew... I decided to take a break for a week of writing due to the holidays. I don't know about you but damn, I am beat!... My patients demand for their stupid viagra prescriptions right before Christmas... Ain't that a bucket of sunshine... Newayz, Oh btw! I know my writing needs a lot of work, but just so you know, I'm no avid writer, nor am I an avid reader. So I apologize in advance that the stuff I type in here is not as clear as I thought they would be, with that aside, I wish you a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! Cheers! :twilightsmile:

Chapter 10: Grave Consequences

HUMANAVILLE
3:33AM; MONDAY
MY APARTMENT

"Honestly. I think the world's going to end bloody. But it doesn't mean we shouldn't fight. We do have choices..." I screen binged on a TV show all night by my living room couch without any hint of sleep. Normally it would only take one chamomile tea to knock me out. But I've almost finished half of the second box of tea, yet still kicking through the night. I still can't seem to wrap my head around with what happened that night at the Christmas Showcase. Sandal Wood told me the rest of the untold story:

"Adagio! Wake up!" Sonata sobbed perpetually while she had her arms around her. As Aria attempted multiple times giving her a light slap on the face, Adagio still wouldn't budge. Aria glowered towards Moon Dancer and the rest of my friends, who were still mesmerized at that moment in time due to my strange transformation. Aria encouraged them to get a grip and that they have more medical emergent situation rising.

Seconds ticked, Moon Dancer finally came to her own realization due to an unforeseen event happening in front of her eyes, she finally agreed with Aria, "You're right... We gotta get her to the hospital now."

"What about Clair?!" Cuddle Bug quickly questioned with a halt.

Sandal Wood replied assuredly, "You girls should go, I'll take care of Clair."

Sonata and the rest of my friends, with the exception of Aria, agreed. There was no time to lose, therefore Cuddle Bug and Moon Dancer carried her by their shoulder, and Sonata went ahead of them towards the car parked in a parking-garage. Aria purposely left herself from the rest for a moment with Sandal Wood. She ambled towards him. Aria's lips tightened, and threatened Sandal Wood, "If anything else happens to her, I will kill you."

Sandal Wood's thoughts lingered, but gave off a relentful expression after Aria's threatening words. He faintly shook his head, and took a deep breath, "... I won't let anything happen to her... Clair has become a part of my life. I mean what I say, Aria..."

Aria lightly chortled, but still wore the same facial expression. She turned around and followed the rest towards the parking garage.

*Knock Knock Knock*

I startled at the loud knocks right outside my apartment door, thinking if I knew anybody who would come barging on my door this late in the night. I lowered the TV volume down, then calmly walked towards the door, and peeked through the peep-hole. I wasn't able to get a visual perception from behind the door well, because the person's eye was blocking my whole field of view. Besides, I already knew who it was. I unlocked the door for both Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug, who were still in their PJs. They both carried a sleeping bag.

Moon Dancer closed the door behind them as they entered, "Hey hun, Cuddle Bug and I are worried about you."

I blankly looked at Moon Dancer, then Cuddle Bug with an eyebrow raised, "Seriously girls, I'm alright..."

Cuddle Bug shook her head, "No you're not... Why else would you be up all night watching your stupid show."

I glared at Cuddle Bug, "If I had the energy to choke you, I would."

Moon Dancer replied, "Clair, you know that's not funny... After what had happened. . ."
I interrupted Moon Dancer, "Did you girls just come by to tell me how evil of a person I am? If that's all, you girls don't need to be here..."
Moon Dancer's raised her volume, "No, it's not that it's just..."
I interrupted again, "I'm well aware of my own doing." My facial expression slowly turned sour, and my eyes began to gloss with tears, "Everybody hates me... It's all because of this stupid gem necklace." I ripped my own gem off of my neck, and threw it on the floor, "Whatever I say to you girls, won't matter anymore. You'll never look at me the same..."

Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug exchanged puzzling glances, then turned their eyes towards me, "Clair... What on earth are you talking about?" Moon Dancer said, "It doesn't matter to us what you become; a monster, a lizard, an alien..."

"A serpent?!" Cuddle Bug added in a cheerful tone.

Moon Dancer raised a single eyebrow at Cuddle Bug, then continued again with words, "Whatever you become, we're still your friends... And we love you so much."

"So much!" Cuddle Bug joined in again.

Moon Dancer held my chin up, and wiped the tears off my face, "We all have a past that we're not proud of, and we're here to help you." Moon Dancer picked up the gem from the floor, and handed it to me while cuffing my hands together with hers.

Cuddle Bug threw her own body behind mine and bestowed a hug, causing me to fall slightly off balance, "I love my Clair. If you leave me, there won't be anybody else who I can beat in a game of poker."

I sniffled with a faint smile, "Thanks girls, it means a lot.."

"You're very welcome... Say, why don't we all get some shut eye around here, and tomorrow, we can go visit your sister at the hospital. Besides, you girl, are in need of some good sleep. I can literally hide my possessions in the bags under your eyes." Moon Dancer teased me.

Cuddle Bug giggled. I bounced back a reply, "This is coming from someone who is used to being awake all the time."

"At least I don't have bags under my eyes."

"Well excuse me, I guess that's why you're called Moon Dancer for a reason."

Moon Dancer barked out with sarcasm laughter, "Hah! Nice come-back, Clair, you literally roast me."

Cuddle Bug yielded our nonsense pestering, "Girls, seriously... The trash talk is embarrassing, and there's no one even here. Can we just go to bed? I'm beat..."

I rolled my eyes, "Whatever.." As we all walked towards the living room, I took another glance at both of the girls, and noticed that not one of them had any of my clothes on, which I found it convincing, "Wow, you girls are actually wearing your own stuff."

"Check again."

I took another glance, and noticed that Moon Dancer has worn my expensive bra that I purchased from Ponyoria's Secret when she lifted up her shirt to show me. "Oh for crying out loud..."

HUMANAVILLE
10:10AM; TUESDAY
HUMANAVILLE HOSPITAL

Adagio was kept in the hospital for a couple of days for full recovery due to the trauma. She's been well at this point, so being discharged from the hospital is the one thing she hoped for today. If she still had her gem, she wouldn't have to be cooped up in the hospital this long, she thought. Nevertheless, She was sitting up on a hospital bed, flipping through the channels on TV until she got to the weather channel. She contorted at the weather report about a snow storm starting this afternoon. "..Of all days.." But it could be worse.

*Knock Knock*

A middle-aged doctor entered to check on Adagio today to give her a rundown on her status of recovery, along with the other plans of treatment. This was rather rare for Adagio, even for the rest of us. We're not one to get nursed back to health by a medical professional. Even in our days of Equestria, it was unusual for us Sirens to seek for medical attention from a pony.

"Ms. Adagio Dazzle?"

"Yes?"

"Good Morning, seems like you're doing great today, how do you feel?"

Adagio rolled her eyes at the doctor's phony attitude. Apart from the two concepts of having pure siren blood with the power to possess and adjusting to normal life as a human being, she would've practiced sooner if she knew that it would come to this. It was beyond her belief. "I'm alright, I just feel this weird pressure in my chest."

"That's pretty normal. Give it some time to heal, you did sustain a great injury." He cleared his throat, "So... I got your X-Ray reports of your thorax here." The doctor pulled in a chair next to Adagio to show her a better view of the image. He pointed out certain regions, explaining to her what happened during the time of the trauma and how it will naturally heal over time with antibiotics. "...So after two more days, you'll be good as new. I'll order a hospital discharge today, so that you can go home tonight."

"Okay." Is all what Adagio can say. Adagio didn't understand half of the medical terms that the doctor explained, except for the part that she can finally go home tonight.

"Umm, You're welcome, Ms. Adagio." The doctor stood up from his chair, and filed the X-Ray report back in his chart folder. He took another glance at her, "Will someone come by to pick you up tonight?"

Adagio pondered for a moment, reverting back of the shocking incident that had brought her in the hospital to begin with. All what memory can serve is that she was knocked back with incredible force, and everything else faded to black. Adagio took a deep breath, "Yeah.." Adagio's thoughts remain lingering. After a short pause, she nodded back at the doctor with a faint smile, "I surely hope I can go home tonight. My little sisters need me."

The doctor smiled back, "Of course... You'll be hearing more information later, in case I don't see you, be careful Ms. Adagio. I heard there's going to be a big snow storm later tonight." He then made his final exit.

During her hospital stay for multiple days, and after many attempts of trying to take this opportune time to relax before she gets back on her normal routine of taking care of her sisters, she gets anxious over little things by calling Aria just to be sure that Sonata hadn't left the oven-stove on or the apartment door unlocked when leaving for work, despite of many close calls.

*Knock Knock*

Adagio lowered the TV volume, then peered by the door to check, "Yeah?"

It was the least of her expectation as I made my appearance. She raised both her eyebrows at me, then continued on watching the news report on TV. She sighed lightly, "What brings you here?.."

Even as a human, she still wore that same facial expression of anger that terrifies me to my very soul. Old habits die hard. I briskly walked near her, and sat on a visitor's chair, "Sister Adagio... I came to visit and see if you're ok..."

Adagio slightly chuckled to herself, feeling cheesy how I still sometimes call her 'Sister Adagio' and all. She replied, "You know... You don't have to call me that." As taking a glance at my gem necklace, she let out a disdainful look, and continued watching the TV. "So where's the rest of your friends?"

I can already sense Adagio's mood, which made me feel edgy, "They're downstairs at the waiting room."

"Why didn't you bring them with you?"

"Because... I... I felt that I needed to talk to you alone. Plus, knowing how intense things will turn out in between us, they figured that..."
Adagio snapped, "What do you mean intense?..."

I stuttered, "Well... After what happened that night..."

"Enough, Clair... It's not your fault." Adagio sighed, "For the record, I'm not mad at you, so relax. I'm just mad at the situation." She tuned the TV channel to a cartoon show.

I blinked twice in puzzlement, "So that's it? we're good?"

"Of course not..." Adagio responded in standardized tone.

My puzzled expression remains, "Well?... Am I missing something? I'm still not following what you're saying..."

Adagio feeling a little disappointed, "That gem is slowly turning you onto something. You have to get rid of it."

"Oh, You didn't think I tried?" I lowered my eyebrows, and drew near closer to Adagio, "You think I like having this gem magically reappear around my neck where ever I go? All this weird stuff happening is all because of you."

Adagio's eyes widened, and pointed a finger at me with a short-tempered tone, "Don't turn this back on me."

My voice raised, "If you listened to me years ago, we wouldn't have to be in this mess. The fact that I was also affected by it, just makes me more upset."

"Look, Clair... We all have our downfalls, and I know I messed up. But haven't you thought that if you would've listened to me from the get-go, your gem would have already been destroyed by The Raingoons, along with ours... But now you're stuck with that trying to figure out how.."

"Are you trying to get out of this from technicality?" I started to become agitated.

Adagio adjusted her tone in temperate manner, "I'm not trying to get out of anything..." She then switched the TV off, "I'm just proving my point of how things should have panned out."

I readjusted my tone to level with her, "Well, Twilight and Sun...."
Adagio cut off my sentence, "No. We can handle this alone..."

"Here we go again, not listening to me."

Adagio shifted her body to face me with an eyebrow raised, "Do you not remember what else happened that night during the showcase?"

"Yeah but, she and Twilight are all we got... Do you have a plan? 'cause I'm all ears, Adagio... I got nothing..." I took another deep breath to regain my intellect, and shook my head in perplexity, "... You're right though...Why did Sunset Shimmer react the way she did that night."

Adagio blinked, and lightly chuckled. She shifted her body back on her bed, and switched the TV back on. After a short pause, she replied, "That's another problem for another day..."

I drew in closer next to Adagio's side of the bed, and held her hand, "Adagio... I just don't want this to happen again. I dread about what may happen next, for all we know, it can just get worse." I slowly leaned my head against her shoulder.

Adagio took a deep breath, and softly placed her hand over my head, "You do know I hate these chick flick moments, but you got me... don't worry. I won't let anything happen to you, to Aria, and Sonata. Now that all four of us are all together, there's always hope."

I let the short moment pass, appreciating the bonding with my oldest sister, "Are either Sonata and Aria coming to visit today?"

She slowly nodded, "mhmm."

As I remain laying my head against my sister's shoulder, I inadvertently criticized her chosen style of hair, "Adagio... This is totally unrelated, but I just can't help it... umm, I really think you should try straightening out your hair sometime. I don't think that bushy hair-style suits you."

I felt a sudden nudge from her shoulder, which prompted me to put my head up. The sisterly bonding between her and I, has now dissipated. Back to her usual bossy way. But there was no harm in it, it was somewhat comforting. She gazed at me and poked the tip of my nose, "Do you want to end up in the same hospital bed next to me with a neck brace?"

Now that all four of us are all together, there's always hope.

HUMANAVILLE
12:18PM; SAME DAY
SUNSET'S APARTMENT

Couple of days after Sunset's victorious night at the Christmas Showcase, she felt so proud of herself that she accomplished an important task: Humiliating me in front of everyone. Some say she's a hero, others beg to differ. She hums a familiar melody repeatedly while preparing a quick lunch for the rest of her friends who are coming over to pick her up so they can all walk together to school for band practice. While she waits for the spinach quiche to bake in the oven, she grabbed her book that she uses to communicate with Princess Twilight, plopped on her living room couch, and opened the book to the page of where it was last written. She grabbed a pen, and began writing:

Dear Princess Twilight:

I have completed my first task of the mission. I'm a step closer to vanquishing the fourth siren. Thanks to you, I'm able to do anything. Magic of Friendship is indeed strong! Reply when you can.

Love,
Sunset Shimmer :heart:

Sunset placed the book down on the coffee table, and quickly went to check on the quiche.

*Vibrating noise*

Sunset turned to the vibrating noise coming from the coffee table, and stared at the reverberating book. She was blown away by Princess Twilight's speed of response. She walked back over by the living room couch, then opened the book, and read the message:

Dear Sunset Shimmer:

A step closer to vanquishing the fourth siren?... That's very noble, but I'm also a little worried... So.. may I ask what you did?

Love,
Twilight :facehoof:

Sunset grinned, and couldn't help herself to write back in long paragraphs explaining what she had done that night during the performance. While she wrote, she speculated in her head, predicting Twilight's reactions:

"Oh Sunset, you are a hero!"

"Ok Sunset... Let's get the preliminaries out of the way, you ma'am, should strap on some wings. You're literally a princess..."

"Yeah! You showed her!"
After done writing, she waited patiently for a reply.

*Vibrating noise*

She chuckled, and instantly opened the book and read the response. As she skimmed through the passage, her smile slowly turned into a frown. Twilight's reaction was merely nothing what she had predicted. She slowly placed her palm on the side of her head with a feeling of dismal, and quizzically shook her head wondering what she has done wrong. She continued reading carefully:

Dear Sunset:

You what?! I thought our feelings towards Clair was perfectly clear?... What you did is totally the opposite of Magic of Friendship. The fact that you set her up at the performance is totally uncalled for. What did the rest of our friends think? I surely hope you didn't brain wash them, because if you did, you and I will have a long talk. Sunset... You disappoint me. I thought you were reformed. But I guess I was wrong. I don't need your response at this time as I have very important royal things to tend to. Let this be a lesson to you. It isn't too late, Sunset.. Hopefully this letter will help you change, and I want you to think carefully what you've done.

Bye,
Twilight :twilightangry2:

After completely reading the disheartening message by Twilight, Sunset broke down in tears. She thought she was doing the right thing all along, clearly she has much to learn about friendship. One thing she has to keep in mind that being absolute doesn't necessary mean it's always the right choice, which can fairly lead to possible bad outcomes.

I am indeed a siren, but I believe we all have a choice like anybody or anypony. We can think about things, turn them over in our minds a million times, play out possible scenarios, but really when it comes down to it, you have to go with your heart and move forward. Maybe things will go well. Maybe they'll turn out poorly. Every decision brings with it some good, some bad, some lessons, and some luck. I'd like to think I made a good decision by choosing such loving friends, living a happy life, and helping people. It's a blessing. But did I have the choice possessing the gem around my neck? That's one question that has yet to be answered. I too, will need help from Princess Twilight Sparkle.

Author's Note

It was quite a long hiatus since my last story written. Now that work is slowing down a bit, I don't feel all stressed from it anymore, well... I don't want to jinx it. NO! I frickin' shook the pandora's box. Lemme tell you a quick story what happened at work recently...

I explained to my patient how to use an inhaler, which is basically just pulling back, releasing a trigger, and then inhale from the mouthpiece.

Her: “So, I just cock it and then suck on it.”

Me: “Well, I wouldn’t put it just that way, but yes.”

She realized what she had said, dropped inhaler in her purse, and left the clinic with no further comment.

lol.. Don't think she'd be coming back anytime soon. Which is pretty sad, because she was hot. Well, not the type who I would sleep with because I saw her medical chart... She's currently diagnosed with Chlamydia recently.

Chapter 12: Sly for a Hippie Guy

Aria's impatience prompted her to bang on my door once again, "Clair, it doesn't take ten frickin' minutes to just simply get dressed and open your door. It's just us for Pete's sake."

"I'm coming!" Things never went smooth when I hide things from my sisters. As a further matter, it's the only card up my sleeve. As I finally slipped on my off-the-shoulder shirt, I sauntered towards my apartment door, and opened it.

Aria and Adagio stared fixedly at me, while they held a bag of groceries. They were wondering why I took so long to open the door. Sonata, on the other hand, let out a teething grin, and jumped in for a hug, "Clair! my fourth big sister!"

I held my breath as barely managing Sonata's weight on me, "Sonata!... Oh my Celestia, please let go."

"Oh, sorry!" Sonata cutely chuckled, and liberated herself from her own bear hug.

I let out a gasp of breath, "Wow, Sonata, next time, a simple hug would be fine. Plus, we only live walking-distance from each other."

"If you think forty minutes worth of walking is considered walking-distance, you must be out of your mind." Aria thought out loud, "Can you please move? These groceries are not getting any lighter, Clair."

"Oh, sorry." I moved to the side of the apartment door, and they finally entered.

Aria and Adagio carefully placed the bags on my counter-top, while Sonata helped herself at the living room couch to switch the TV on.

"I need to pee." Aria said in a hasteful tone. She then ran across the living room, towards the bathroom.

"You don't need to announce the whole world, Aria.." Adagio retorted in a loud voice at Aria, while removing all the groceries from the bags. She paused for a second, then smirked at me, "Well now... look who decided to join me in a crazy hairstyle club. Coming from someone who always mocked me for my hair."

My eyes slowly closed to a quizzical squint, "What are you talking about?" I grabbed a hand-held mirror by the kitchen counter-top, and looked at my own reflection. My grimace produced a chuckle from Sonata. Adagio was right, I looked like I walked into a tornado, but survived. Or perhaps became a member of the mile high club. "I'll be right back, lemme just gussy up real quick."

"Please." Adagio requested in a light tone with a grin, then continued removing the rest of the groceries from the bags.

I scampered towards my bedroom, and closed the door slightly, leaving a fissure. I sat by my vanity table, and started combing my hair with acquired effort. I nonchalantly peeked through the fissure of my bedroom door, making sure Adagio wasn't looking at my direction.

I'm in a real sticky situation. If Sandal Wood gets caught hiding under my bed by anyway possible, only Celestia knows what Adagio would think. But I'm sure it won't be any good. Knowing Adagio, she has a strong sense of things, so I have to be careful how I act and what I say. I quietly whispered to Sandal Wood under the bed, "Psst, are you okay?"

Sandal Wood answered in a low voice, "No... Why didn't you tell me before that your sisters were coming?"

"Hey!... If we both had self control, we wouldn't have to be in this mess."

The bathroom door was heard shut, hearing Aria's footsteps towards the kitchen so that she can help Adagio prep for dinner.

Sandal Wood whispered once again, "... How long are they going to stick around?"

I grimaced, "Ummm... Three hours?..."

Sandal Wood snapped back, "I can't stay under here for three hours."

Adagio called out for me, "Clair, you should've fixed your hair before we got here, why don't you help us out."

I replied in a standardized tone from my bedroom, "Be right there." Then whispered to Sandal Wood, "I'll figure something out... I gotta go.."

I got up from my vanity chair, then walked towards the kitchen, ignoring Sandal Wood's loud whisper, "Clair!... Come back here!..."

Once again, as I nonchalantly approached the kitchen with an awkward grin, Adagio was in the middle of heating oil in a pan, and Aria chopped onions on a cutting-board. Sonata, is just in her own world playing a video game in the living room. There was a momentary pause as both Adagio and Aria stared at me vacantly. "Whatcha smilin' about..." As Adagio placed a hand on her hip.

I shook the grin off my face, "Oh ummm, ya know.. Just wond'rin' what you guys cooking."

Aria took the second sweet onion, and began chopping them julienne, "Adagio already told you, Clair. We're having Adagio's famous shepherd's pie."

Now that she mentioned it, I vaguely recall Adagio texting me about it. Since my thoughts were primarily on Sandal Wood, my mind was bouncing around like monkeys playing ping-pong, "Oh that's right! Mmmmm! That sounds delicious, I can't wait, Adagio." I smiled widely with my eyes closed, I sauntered towards the living room couch to join Sonata on her video game.

I'm very terrible with keeping a secret. As I heard what I said, I regretted it, and felt so stupid. I watched Sonata in the middle of her game, seeing Adagio's suspecting expression from my peripheral vision. I know she had already sensed something off about me from my phony attitude. Aria rolled her eyes, feeling the same way.

"...Well... You better be hungry, because Sonata can't eat this pie alone." Adagio had said while placing all the chopped onions in a hot pan.

Sonata, while engrossed with her game, "Yes I can!"

"Shut up, Sonata, we're talking to Clair." Aria snarled, "Just play your stupid little video game."

Sonata humphed, "It's not stupid!"

I took Sonata's side, "Yeah, it's not stupid!"

"Enough!" Adagio halted, "Clair... You're acting a little weird today. Are you okay? Is your gem acting up again?"

I went with the flow because I'm not one to be quick-witted with an answer to cover the truth, "Uhh, Yes?.."

Adagio crossed her arms, and faintly shook her head, "Don't worry Clair... We'll get through this, I can imagine what you're going through. That's why we're here to help."

"Thanks.. It means a lot."

Adagio smiled, then began sautéing the onions in a hot pan. Aria concluded her part of the job with the prepping, therefore helped herself on the living room couch next to Sonata, and snagged the controller from her, "My turn."

"Hey, give it back! I was in the middle of a mission!" Sonata cried as she struggled to take back the controller.

*Text Message Notification*

I quickly took my phone out, seeing a text notification from Sandal Wood. I sighed as I got to the middle of reading the text message, which read:

"Clair, I'm going to climb down the fire escape from your bedroom window. I promise I'll be really quiet."

My eyes widened, and quickly drafted back a text reply:

"NO! We're 3 stories high. It's too dangerous."

What was he thinking, climbing down the fire escape. One little slip on the ladder, game is over.

Adagio reduced the heat from the pan to medium-high, and began adding the ground beef. "So Clair, how's your boyfriend holding up through all this?"

I gulped in fear, "Umm, he seems to be okay. He and I actually met up today at the bakery."

"Oh really now... After what happened, that freak still wants to be with you?" Adagio paused from sautéing the ground beef to prove her point, ".. And I know what that dumb hippie is slingin'."

"Adagio, he's not what you think he is. I already told you."

Adagio's faint chuckle tangled with my words, "You may be right, but we all think you can do better." Adagio smirked, "I mean C'mon... He should at least pull off a decent look with a haircut." I bellowed after a short moment of pause, she continued again, "I'm sorry, honey. I guess we all have our weird tastes in men." Adagio turned her head to Aria with a grin, "Ain't that right, Aria?"

"Aria... Adagio is talking to you.." Sonata snagged the controller back from her.

Aria lowered her eyebrows back at Adagio, then crossed her arms, "I don't wanna talk about it."

Adagio chuckled then continued sautéing the ground beef. "Could I at least share our worse break-up stories to Clair? Only if you're ok with it."

Aria shrugged, "I don't care."

Adagio added minced garlic, black pepper and salt into the pan. The delicious aroma of the food dispersed throughout the room, which made me hungry. Then Adagio began with Aria's break up story. "Aria dated this one guy for half a year, and things were going at the right direction. But one day, he stopped returning her texts and calls. He told her he was having “family trouble” and couldn’t talk. This went on for a few days until she found out the real reason he wasn’t talking to her."

Aria placed a palm on her head, "Oh Celestia, I hate this part.."

Adagio Continued, "He was waiting for his breakup postcard to arrive in our mailbox. That’s right. He broke up with her via postcard. A POSTCARD..."

My eyes widened, and jaw-dropped, "Are you serious?!" Then turned my head to Aria.

Aria sighed, "Can't make this stuff up.."

I sat on the couch beside Aria, and held her hand to soothe her emotion, "I'm sorry Aria. That was a total jerk move on his part."

"Eh... It's alright. That was a long time ago. But I think Adagio's story is the worst."

Adagio giggled, "Quite honestly, I really don't know which is worse. But lemme tell you mine.." She poured a cup of beef stock into the pan, and lowered the heat. "Well, I've been dating this guy for almost a year. We were very serious, until one night. When I was about to jump in the shower, he texted me saying that he’s going to head over early, the night before we made plans to go out. A little while later, he pokes his head in the bathroom to let me know that he was there and that he’d hang out in my room to wait for me. When I got out of the shower, all wrapped in my towel, I opened the door to my room, and there he was, sitting on the edge of my bed with a piece of paper in his hand. I was still in my towel. I was like "You’re breaking up with me aren’t you?" He nodded, “I wrote you a letter. Do you wanna get dressed first?” Then I go, “A LETTER?! YOU’RE BREAKING UP WITH ME IN A LETTER?! WTF?!” then he says “Just read it.” Then I go, “Read it in front of you?!” So yeah... I read it. This jerk didn’t even rewrite the letter. There were words scratched out. Favorite one was

…I don’t love you anymore.

When the original line clearly said,

…I don’t love you as much anymore.

I read the whole two-page letter in my towel while he said absolutely nothing."

The melancholy silence that followed was broken by the sound of Sonata's victorious shout, completing a mission in her video game, "Yes!" Sonata stood up, and did her signature victory dance that made Aria and I frown upon. We raised our single eyebrow expressionlessly, urging her to calm down and that it is only a game. She gazed around us with a grimace, and sat back down on her side of the couch, "Oops... Sorry.."

I cleared my throat, and let out a dolorous look at Adagio with words, "... Oh Adagio... Must've been hell."

Adagio started peeling off the skin from the potatoes with a potato peeler, "Well... Considering that I dedicated my all to him, yes.. It was hell. But hey, I learn from my mistakes all the time." After peeling off the potato skins, she then chopped them into cubes. "That's why I'm telling you now, Clair. Aria and I have gone through the same path as you did. They're always sweet in the beginning, so sweet that you'll fall head over heels. Then when you least expect it..." Adagio suddenly cut the second potato in half clean with force that shocked me and Aria, "That son-of-a-bitch dumps you."

I gulped, "Ummm, what about Sonata?"

"I never had a boyfriend." Sonata retorted.

Aria chuckled, "You never had a boyfriend because you're the worst."

"Shut up!" Sonata growled, irritated by Aria's response.

I had no idea Adagio and Aria went through such terrible break ups. It was an eye-opener for me. But knowing Adagio and Aria, I'm only hearing one side of the story. I'm not implying that anyone deserves to be treated wrongfully, however, many times we complain about situations we allow ourselves to be in, nobody is forcing them to stay with a man who does not value them, they choose to be there women. That being said, I'm willing to give Sandal Wood a chance.

Adagio took all of the chopped potatoes, and placed them into the pan, letting them fry with the rest of the ingredients. "Clair, honey... We'd hate for you to fall in the same trap as we did. All I can say is, be sharp, be smart, and always be careful." She adjusted the heat again, and grinned at me with a sarcastic tone, "By the way, thanks for helping me prep for dinner, Clair..."

I scratched my head with nervous laughter, "Well, I can at least get the table ready..."

Adagio winked, "Thank you."

Half an hour later, when dinner is ready, we enjoyed our time together as family, while watching a movie. Having forgotten the real reason they came to my apartment to begin with: To discuss about my gem.

Hours later, it was already passed seven, and it was time for them to go home. Sonata and Adagio gave me a hug and a peck on the cheek goodnight. Aria, of course, was not one of those who acquire a character for sisterly, lovey dovey stuff, but I managed to get her to at least hug me for the night. Right before they headed out the door, I brought up the subject of my gem. Adagio didn't worry too much about it. She offered me to come over to their apartment sometime this week so that we'll discuss about it, which is mysteriously not like her. Adagio is usually keen about this kind of stuff. She changed, and her new personality has been making me wretched lately. The old Adagio would've been more aggressive and assertive. Unless she has a plan, which I doubt she does. Nevertheless, we waved our goodbyes, and out the door they went.

I ran towards my bedroom to check on my boyfriend, who was still hidden under my bed. I peeked under my bed and caught him playing a game on his cell phone, "Hey babe, they're gone, you can come out now, only if you want." I giggled.

Sandal Wood, with no words of response, he rolled himself out, and stood up. A frown slowly formed across my face as I watched his moody expression. I knew it was wrong of me to have him hide under the bed for hours, but I had no choice. "Sandal Wood, I'm sorry about all this..."

Sandal Wood sighed, and continued fiddling with his cell phone. I raised my voice slightly with irritation, "Sandal Wood, I'm talking to you!.."

"What?!" Sandal Wood snapped.

I shook my head with a quizzical squint, and crossed my arms, "What's wrong with you all of a sudden?.."

Sandal Wood turned his cell phone screen off, and hid it in his pocket. He let out words in a monotone, "..I gotta go, Clair.."

I softly took his hands, "Wait, wait... We don't have any school tomorrow, we still have a couple of days of winter break."

"Yeah?.. So?..."

"So.. Why don't you stay here a little longer."

"I can't."

I was getting perturbed by his short, vague response, "Why do you always act like this when we're together."

Sandal Wood leveled with my temper, "What are you talking about, that was only once."

"Second time today, Sandal Wood." I sat on the edge of my bed, "If there's something bothering you, tell me... I—am—your—girlfriend."

Sandal Wood fixedly gazed at me, and lowered his tone in temperate manner, "I heard Adagio telling you those stories."

With my single nod, I urged him to continue, "Yeah, and?.."

".. And.. That didn't scare you?.. Considering I'm just like any other guys out there?"

I shook my head, "Of course not, you're not like the other guys I've met. I've known you for almost three months now, and I like how things are going in between us... I Love You..." I said as I reached my hand out to him.

His expression slowly formed into a faint smile, then pulled me in closer for a hug, and gave me a peck on the lips. "I love you too." He then gently placed his arms around my waist and kissed my forehead. He whispered, "I love the way you moan too."

With my blushed smile, I playfully hit him on the arm, "Stop it, you're embarrassing me."

He slowly liberated himself from our closeness, pulled out his phone to check the current time, "Babe, I seriously need to go."

I sat back down on the edge of my bed, "Why?"

He slid his phone back in his pocket, "I gotta help my dad early in the morning with yard work. But I'll text or call you to let you know what my status is for tomorrow, whether I get done early or not."

I nodded, "Aw.. Ok, hun."

I walked Sandal Wood towards my apartment door exit, and we finally gave each other a kiss good night.

As Sandal Wood stepped his foot outside the apartment door lobby, he stealthily surveyed his surroundings to make sure no one was around. He took his phone out, and swiped through his contacts to call his friend.

After three rings, his friend finally answered, "Hello?"

Sandal Wood with an abrupt tone, "Hey Trenderhoof, it's me, Sandal Wood."

A huff of laughter was heard from the other side of Sandal Wood's phone, "I know... What's wrong?..."

"Dude, this is bad.. I just left my girl's place, and her sisters were there."

"Cool. Did you guys have some sort of an orgy party or something?"

Sandal Wood with an indignant tone, "No!" A random high-school girl who was just passing by, frightened by his sudden reaction. She started walking away fast. Sandal Wood continued speaking but adjusted his tone in temperate volume, "Why don't you and Zephyr Breeze tell me what really happened on your last break-up with your girlfriends."

"I told you... They weren't anyone special. They were strippers, okay? It had to be done. Besides, what made you bring this up all of a sudden?"

Sandal Wood shook his head, "They're not strippers, idiot." He sighed, "Adagio?.. Aria?... Ring any bells?"

Sandal Wood detected a momentary pause, sensing Trenderhoof's expression on the other side of the phone, "Bruhhh..."

"I can't believe this, you guys lied to me! The girls you guys broke up with, are actually my girlfriend's sisters!" Sandal Wood surveyed his surroundings once again making sure his girlfriend didn't come out unexpectedly this time of the evening, "Listen, Adagio told the story to one of her sisters about the one with the post card, and the stupid written letter?... The same familiar story you told me a couple of months ago. Deja Vu? Much?"

Trenderhoof questioned as Sandal Wood's story was a bit out place, "Told one of her sisters the story? Then where the hell were you during that time?"

Sandal Wood was a little hesitant on his words, "I... I was hiding under the bed."

Trenderhoof laughed hysterically on the other line, "You're joking... Right?"

"This is not a laughing matter!"

Trenderhoof with a short pause, then questioned again, "Ok... But how?.."

"I'll explain more later. But you and Zephyr Breeze better fix this, because apparently, they're not too happy about it."

"You think? It is a break up after all..."

Sandal Wood increased his tone again, "Figure it out, man!" Then hung up the phone.

Sandal Wood leaned his back against a lamp post that lit up through the evening, and took a deep breath. From this moment, Sandal Wood was getting anxious, thinking things out on how to approach me and my sisters about this situation, but nothing came to his mind. If my sisters ever find out that I'm dating a good friend of their ex, it would be a huge red-flag for Sandal Wood, and he knew that offering a simple apology wouldn't fix a difficult break-up.

Chapter 13: Ocean of Uncertainty

It was a dark and stormy day; the rain fell in torrents — except at occasional intervals, when it was checked by a violent gust of wind which swept up the streets. Rattling along the housetops, and fiercely agitating the scanty lamp posts that struggled against the darkness. I was outside the campus of my high school grounds and a sudden thunder-clap shook beneath my feet. I was alone. As I panned around with apprehension, a mysterious floating apparition appeared right before my eyes in a distance. It wore nothing but a long white transparent gown extending down longer than its body. It also had long, black hair. She pointed in my direction, though it's my guess she was pointing at the gem around my neck. Her lips were moving, but her voice was silent. As I comprehend this unknown object, her body shifted closer to me from where she levitated, increasingly in speed. Not knowing what to do, there were no options for me except to run. But something was holding me back. Like a dark magic spell was cast upon me. I was unable to move or scream. I could hear my voice attempting to scream but my mouth couldn't move. As the apparition finally caught up to me, I instantly woke up due to the fright.

I had realized that I was still in my bed, feeling relief that it was just a dream. Well, a nightmare. I squinted at the time on my alarm clock, it was 2:23 am. Since I'm up for a bit, I got up and walked towards the kitchen to get a cup of water. I didn't want to over think what my nightmare meant, but what's more important is that I need to wake up early in the morning because I promised Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug that I would meet up with them at the diner for breakfast.

HUMANAVILLE
7:47 PM; THURSDAY
HUMANAVILLE LIBRARY

A week has passed and the school winter break is finally over. Back to reality of a high school girl, back to searching for colleges with Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug. A little overwhelm at this point, considering my winter break wasn't technically what I would say blowing off steam, enjoying time with friends and family, candy in the sky type of deal. Instead, what I get is an ongoing drama of my never ending illuminating gem, Adagio being hospitalized because of my own uncontrolled stupidity, and hiding my boyfriend under my small bed to keep the damage control in check.

Moon Dancer urged me to go to a local pharmacy for an emergency contraceptive pill when she and Cuddle Bug heard my story about that night. I don't know, Cuddle Bug and I thought it was funny. But sure as Moon Dancer didn't think so, and she can be really scary sometimes. She warned me not to do anything stupid again then schooled me about the consequences that I'd be facing and all that shenanigans. Moon Dancer, just like Adagio, has the same low opinion about Sandal Wood: One who cannot be trusted, a womanizer. They can think all they want, but they can't take me away from him, no matter how hard they try.

Moon Dancer sat on the other side of the table from me and Cuddle Bug within this uncrowded, spacious library. "I'm hungry.." Cuddle Bug said quietly as she laid her head down on the table in front of a long print-out list of open college enrollments. She blinked and looked towards Moon Dancer's direction, then me and remain fixated at length as a protest to take a break. Cuddle Bug knew my soft spot, she knew I wouldn't say no to that, because of course, Moon Dancer would automatically turn her down. Cuddle Bug made a sad puppy face and raised an eyebrow directing at me to nudge Moon Dancer. But Moon Dancer looked so engrossed on her list, highlighting possible colleges that she would like to apply for. Nevertheless, I insisted.

I cleared my throat and lightly tapped my fingers on the table, "Ummm, MD... It's almost eight.."

Moon Dancer looked up and re-positioned her eye-glasses, "Yeah?" then continued looking through her list.

Cuddle Bug and I exchanged glances. I tucked my lips and delayed a response, "So... Should we get going and continue this some other time?"

"Are you stopping because of Cuddle Bug?.."

Cuddle Bug's stomach growled loudly as if a lion was stuck inside her stomach. She then let out a squee smile.

I raised an eyebrow at Moon Dancer, "Ya' know, I've been wond'ring how you girls treat each other when I'm not around. I'm curious..."

Moon Dancer chortled, "You really wanna know?"

I relinquished a faint smile with an attentive look, "..Yeah.."

"I make Cuddle Bug as my personal slave. Whenever I ask for things on demand, she would do it. Hell she would get a can of soda and open it for me while I relax on my own barcalounger."

My eyes widened, "Really?"

Moon Dancer popped the cap that was placed on the other end of her highlighter and covered it with slight irritation, "Uhh, Yeah... lemme first introduce you to my friend called sarcasm..." She then let out a sarcastic smile, then continued, "If you really believed that I would do something like that, then you're in trouble."

I sighed, "What the hell crawled up your ass?.."

"It's the opposite thing that crawled up in yours when you let him finished inside you."

Cuddle Bug sensed the heavy atmosphere between Moon Dancer and me. She tried interrupting, "Umm, girls, I don't feel hungry anymore..." Cuddle Bug's voice was too soft for Moon Dancer and I to hear, and couldn't care much for her as we both continued with our useless argument.

The tone of my voice began increasing in volume, "Is this all about Sandal Wood?"

Moon Dancer leveled with me, "Yeah, and hiding this whole mess from your family. It's just messed up."

"I have secrets of my own that they don't need to know about.."

"And it's alright to tell us?" Moon Dancer stood up from her seat while placing a hand on her own chest to convey her argument. She lowered the volume of her voice, "You're scared of something, Clair... And I don't know what it is." Moon Dancer faintly shook her head and continued, "They're your sisters for Pete's sake. They're trying to save you.. Least you can do is tell them what you've been up to."

I questioned, "How is that going to help me?.."

"Will you just trust me on this?..."

"So... What you're trying to make me do is... Confess..."

Moon Dancer is a very smart individual, perhaps too smart that sometimes she lets her sarcasm attitude take the side of her. She chose not to continue with the discussion or argument any longer. She began packing her stuff in her bag, "Clair, you're a smart girl, right? You figure this one out." She then zipped her bags closed, "I can't eat out with you girls tonight, perhaps some other time." She held her side satchel bag pack by her shoulder, and off she went towards the library exit.

Cuddle Bug and I remain seated for awhile. She gave an awkward grimace as if she expected me to say something. I rolled my eyes instead. She initiated, "Ummm... Maybe we should get something to eat?"

I let out a suppressed sigh, "Cuddle Bug?... Can I ask you something?"

"Sure!"

"Do you ever use your brain at times like these?"

Cuddle Bug's expression turned into a frown, and stuttered, "Oh... Well..."

I cut her off and gave her a hand signal to stop, "Just forget it... Don't need to answer that.."

Feeling slightly stressed, I slid my chair back then rubbed my aching eyes, down to the rest of my face and moaned in dismay. "Cuddle Bug, Cuddle Bug..." I then stood up from my chair, then began packing all of my stuff in my satchel bag pack, "I'm going home... I'll just see you girls tomorrow." As I packed the last text book, I zipped my bag closed and stormed out the exit without a courtesy to say goodbye to Cuddle Bug.

Cuddle Bug was left alone in the library feeling at fault that she had brought up the litany of problem to begin with when it was already dealt with. "If I wasn't hungry, all of this could've been prevented and all of us would still be here." She thought. She felt guilty, so when all hopes are lost, she would eat ice cream, and that's exactly what she will be doing tonight. She packed all of her things, left the library, and makes her way to Baskin Robbins before she heads back home.

HUMANAVILLE
4:02 PM; FRIDAY
TALL TALE FABRIC STORE

The discussion that Moon Dancer and I had the previous day in the library made me reconsider the decision of telling my sisters about Sandal Wood. I couldn't really find any logic reason, but nevertheless, what could be worse than Adagio dragging my ear down the sidewalk all the way home? Lots of things, I hope.

Adagio is a district manager at a big fabric company. She had mentioned to me multiple times to pay her a visit if I wasn't at all busy. I have never went inside a fabric store before, so this would be kind of a treat. I entered through the automatic doors to an immediate display of various rolled up fabrics on tall racks, aisle after aisle. There were wide varieties of different colors and patterns. They were beautiful. The store looked really small from the outside, but the inside spoke for itself, it's literally a warehouse. With this much space in a fabric store, I thought this place would be crowded. My guess is that such people tend not to spend time learning a skill that requires a lot of time with very meticulous work. From what I've heard, it takes a lot of passion and a good eye. As I continued examining through the vicinity of this store, seeing Adagio from a mid distance talking to an employee in her open office. I was a little surprised that she actually wore her hair different this time. Rather than her usual afro-like hair style, she had worn it down straight with a pony-tail. I guess she finally took my word for it. As I finally approached the office, I poked my head in with a grin, "Hi Adagio."

Adagio turned her head to a familiar voice, and her expression of exasperation turned into a grin, "Oh hey, Clair, what's up?" She pat on a nearby vacant seat in her office, inviting me to sit down.

I sat down, "Ummm, you seem busy today. Should I come back some other time?"

Adagio had a green, plain rolled fabric held on her right arm and she was flipping through the pages of what seem to look like a list of customers' names laid on her office desk. She skimmed through the list with her left index finger, "Well yeah, you caught me in a slightly busy time, but it's okay. What's up?"

I couldn't help but notice how pretty my sister looked with her hair down. So I complimented her, "Adagio, you look really pretty with your hair down... Why don't you keep it like that?.."

Adagio sighed, "Clair, hon.. I'm really busy right now, please make it quick.."

"Fine, but lemme take a picture of you first." I quickly unveiled my phone from my pocket, then snapped a photo:

Adagio, with no signs of emotion, "Clair... I swear to Celestia that if you post that up on facebook, I will make your life miserable."

I chuckled, and took another glance of my sister's photo, "Wow Adagio, you could've at least pulled a smile..." I then hid the phone back in my pocket. Adagio remain her eyes at me, waiting for the real purpose why I came here for. It only took me ten seconds to finally realize, "Oh ummm, it's about that night when you girls came to my apartment for dinner."

Adagio seemed puzzled, "Why, did you get a stomach ache?"

"No no no." I took a deep breath, and thought to myself that I should've at least prepared what I'm about to say.

As taking another deep breath, a nervous male employee abruptly popped in, waving at Adagio as a signal for needing urgent assistance about an incorrect order that he had placed in the company's computer for a customer. Adagio assured him that everything will be alright and that she'll be right over there momentarily to help him out. "Clair, could you just tell me later when I get home? I'm rreealllyy busy right now."

To my relief, I agreed upon Adagio's plan, "That's what I thought. I'll just tell you later." I stood up and paced the exit from Adagio's office.

"Hey Clair." Adagio called out for me.

I turned around, "Yes?"

"I'm serious... You will tell me later. I'll be expecting your call." Adagio's tone of her message gave me chills like a brisk, mountain wind. She had already sensed what was wrong, and she knew it.

"Yes, Adagio. I will call you later.." I turned back around, and walked towards the store exit.

After spending about fifteen minutes of walking, deep in thought about the nightmare I had a couple of nights ago. What could it mean? Most importantly, who the hell was that creepy lady, who levitated, on mid-air? This has gone way over beyond my knowledge of anything I have experienced my whole thousands of years of my life. I haven't said a word to anybody because I wouldn't think they'll take me seriously. Whoever she was, I'm sure she's bad juju. From here on out, I must keep my eyes peeled for omen.

"Clair?"

My eyes widened as I stumbled upon a person who I least expected at this time of the day. Sunset Shimmer, surprised as I am, stood right before me with a faint smile. She held a side satchel bag that looked identical to mine by her shoulder. She continued, "We can't keep bumping onto each other all the time like this." Sunset Shimmer let out an innocent smile and scratched the back of her head.

"Sunset Shimmer.... I have nothing to say to you... You humiliated me in front of everyone." I gave her an angry look, then continued to walk by-pass her.

"No Clair, wait." Sunset quickly grabbed my arm tightly to a halt, "I was actually hoping that I would see you somewhere.."

I glowered further at Sunset's hand on my arm, then looked at her with the same expression, "Get off me." I threatened.

"Clair, it's not a coincidence that we met up again."

"I said... GET OFF ME!" I pushed her away with force, and she finally lets go of my arm.

Sunset gasped, "Clair... I wanted to apologize for what I've done... I really mean it."

"Yeah... I've heard that before..." I was uninterested whatever words came out of her ass, so I went along and kept on walking. I've learned my lesson, after many mistakes of trusting her, not to deal with her anymore.

After about a few feet away from walking the opposite direction, she persisted again to draw my attention, "Clair... I can really help you with your gem."

"Bite me." I retorted.

Sunset watched me continue walking away, she attempted one last time, "Have you had any weird dreams lately?"

I paused for a moment, turned my head around with furrowed eyebrows and a head-tilt, "How do you know about that?.."

Sunset grinned, "Well.. Princess Twilight didn't choose me to be her student for nothing. I can tell you more only if we meet up tonight at Sugar Cube Corner.. Oh but promise me that you won't just walk away like you did before."

"How do I know if this is not one of your traps again..." I questioned.

"I pinkie promise that I'm telling you the honest truth."

"What the hell is a pinkie promise?..."

Sunset paused to smirk momentarily, "Oh... never mind that.. It's a word that one of my friends came up with. It's a long story."

I rolled my eyes, "Whatever, I still have some time to kill, do you wanna just walk there together?"

Sunset acted like she's really willing to help out, but like I said, I must keep my eyes peeled for omen. "Sure!" She responded with delight, "Cakes are on me, lets go." She was more enthused than when I last saw her. She probably changed for the better, or may have felt badly about the night when she humiliated me in front of everyone at the Christmas Showcase.

As planned, we both agreed on walking together to Sugar Cube Corner. I remain silent throughout the time while she was the one doing all the talking. It's just difficult for me to reclaim my trust towards someone who back stabbed me in the worse possible way. On the contrary, it wouldn't hurt to get a few bits and pieces of information, despite of what I have been warned by Adagio about not dealing with her anymore. But she may be on to something, maybe she can find a cure for my curse. One thing I fear is when all this is over, would my singing voice remain the same?

Author's Note

Sorry again, real life caught in the way. The drawing of Adagio in this chapter, all credits go to SkycatcherEquestria, and her deviantart site is here: SkycatcherEquestria

Chapter 14: A Taste of a Siren's Fruit Punch

Just a few minutes away before arriving at the bakery, the sound of thunder from the overcast skies brought me and Sunset's hands instinctively to our ears. The wind picked up, then the rain came down immediately. As we finally arrived, a wave of relief passed over us, but we were soaking wet. We entered the bakery to an immediate welcoming voice by Mrs. Cake, then gasped as she observed the current condition of our attires, "Goodness! You girls are soaking wet! You girls must hurry and dry up. Come quickly." Mrs. Cake invited us to the back room of the bakery. We scampered towards a small, latched entrance door that led us there, and Mrs. Cake draped both towels behind our backs. "I don't know what happened, it was pretty sunny just five minutes ago, but when I came back from the bathroom, out of nowhere, it suddenly got dark and began to rain..."

Sunset Shimmer softly grinned at Mrs. Cake, and began drying her own hair with the towel, "I'm sorry Mrs. Cake, we should've brought an umbrella if we knew that it was going to rain like it did."

".. Thank You for the towels." I added.

Mrs. Cake smiled, "That's no problem at all, girls." The sound of a chime from the entrance door was heard at the front, and a couple of voices followed after, bragging about Mrs. Cake's most famous chocolate chip cupcake. "Are you girls going to be okay here for awhile?" She looked at the both of us.

Sunset nodded, "Yes."

Mrs. Cake chortled, "Okay, once you girls dry up, the cakes are on me." She darted out of the back room to help the customers out at the front.

"That was my line..." Sunset mumbled.

"S'cuse me?" I replied with an eyebrow raised.

"Oh.. nothing.." Sunset said with no signs of emotion.

There were two vacant seats that we sat on, we both waited patiently. The room was silent, the expression on our faces didn't show much as we both steadily looked blankly on the ground. Sunset broke the silence, "..Wow.."

I looked up at Sunset, preserving the same expression, "What..."

Sunset glanced back at me, "Just our day, huh?"

I sighed, and looked blankly back down on the ground, "I guess so.."

Silence took over between us once again for a short moment, then Sunset re-initialized with words, "How do you feel?"

I shrugged, "cold.."

Sunset wished that I would elaborate more, she asked another question, hoping that she wouldn't get any more vague responses from me, "How are the rest of your sisters?"

I lifted my head and glared at her, "Like you care?.."

Sunset paused, and raised a concerned look in her eyes. "... I actually do.."

"Why?.."

"... Because I do.."

I exhaled a gleeful laugh, "That's not really a compelling argument.."

Sunset gazed into my eyes with an attentive look, "A lot has happened, Clair. You don't have to believe me. I understand you want one thing done, and that is to get you out of your curse. But I also want you to know that I'm here to help anybody not because I'm trying to win a spot of leadership over my friends or to become better than anyone else. I want to do it because I want to be a better person.... And I owe it to you as an apology..."

"Thanks, so.. What made you decide this path suddenly?"

Sunset let out a brooding expression, and looked down on the ground, "Well... Lately, I looked back of all the wrong things I've done..." She sighed deeply, "I wish life had a rewind button so that I can undo it all. I mean of course, my friends forgave me, but the challenging part is forgiving myself." Sunset sat glooming over her mistakes, I shifted my chair next to her showing empathy. She continued, "I fell into my desires leaving Equestria to come here. It was that time I thought I was powerful enough to overcome anything, hell I thought I was more powerful than Princess Celestia, herself. But I was so wrong..." I faintly shook my head, "I want to go back and apologize, but I don't think I'm ready to show myself after all I've done." Sunset's expression remain unchanged, but her tears were beginning to blur her vision, then a single droplet coursed down her cheek, "I've always hid these feelings from my friends, but there were moments they caught me staring off into blank space. I want to tell them how I really feel, but I just can't get myself to." Then the area vibrated due to the sound of a thunder-clap.

I rested a comforting hand over her shoulder, "Sunset... No matter how many mistakes you make, or how slow your progress, you are still way ahead of everyone who isn't even trying." I have said, "I'm like over a thousand years old trapped in this seventeen year old vessel. I've shared my experiences of all the rights and wrongs. But you are the first person I know who goes this far to correct your mistakes. We all make mistakes, Sunset.. But sometimes there's just no way to go back and fix them. But we can move forward wiser and more in control of our own lives. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it, and that is exactly what you're doing right now." Sunset wiped her tears with her own bear hands, and sniffled. I unzipped my bag, and took out a tissue and handed it to her, "Tissue?"

Sunset kindly accepted the tissue, and she wiped her tears, "Thank You.."

I smiled faintly at her, "Sunset you have nice friends. I'm sure if you tell them how you really feel, they'll be there to comfort you."

Sunset nodded with a sniffle, "Yes..."

I chuckled lightly as an attempt to cheer her up, "Ya know, it was fate that brought us here. It wasn't just a coincidence that we bumped into each other." Soon after I said that, the rain had finally stopped falling, and the sun shined through the window beautifully of the back room of this bakery. Sunset and I stared at the window in amazement. I continued with words, "Well, ain't that a bucket 'o sunshine.."

Sunset's eyes suddenly widened, "Wow!... Beautiful!.."

Observing the light through the window, we also realized that our clothes are finally dry. We both stood up and draped the dampen towels on the back of our chairs.

Mrs. Cake poked her head in to check in on us to see if we we're alright. She smiled, "You girls are okay? It stopped raining all of a sudden!.. I never seen anything like that in my life."

Sunset and I exchanged smiling glances, then we looked at her. Sunset giggled innocently, "It's one of those rare moments that we should cherish."

"I agree." I added.

Mrs. Cake laughed, "You girls are a treat!" She then observed our clothes closely, "Wow, looks like you both are all dried up! Come on out here, like I said, the cakes are on me!"

Sunset and I expressed our gratitude towards Mrs. Cake. We both came out of the back room, and sat by the window in the dining booth.

Exhausting an hour sitting within this bakery, with our half-eaten cupcakes, seemed so quick when you're having too much fun. Sunset and I talked about things what we like to do for fun and such, we had lots of laughter. She turned out to be a very sweet girl. I know there's lots of story behind her past, but we chose not to dwell on it. Sunset placed her satchel bag out, and pulled out an old book that looked like it was from the twentieth century. The pages looked torn, and produced an unpleasant musty smell. Sunset grinned, "After spending lots of time of research, I finally got it."

I let out a quizzical look, "Where'd you get that?"

She placed the book down on the table, "Equestria."

My jaw dropped, "Wow, but how?"

"Well, to make long story short, after hours and nights spent with little sleep, I've researched many books from this world, just to get this particular book from Equestria, after trials and errors of course. I finally found the cure."

"Impressive... But how did you get that book from Equestria?"

"Princess Twilight got it for me."

"Oh, okay?.." I still remain a quizzical expression.

"Uhuh! Ya see, the books we have here in this world are... Pretty different than the books we have in Equestria, but not so different at the same time... Since you're from Equestria, we have to grab this book."

"Oh.." My thoughts lingered for a moment, "Sunset... Did you really spend nights without sleep for all this?" I said, "You really didn't need to do that for me..."

She then opened the bookmarked page of the book, "Oh it's nothing, Clair. Don't worry about me. I wanted to do this."

I expressed my gratitude, "Thank You so much.."

Sunset smiled, "That's no biggy." She then skimmed through the page with her index finger, "Let's see here..." I tilt my head slightly to read the page what she was skimming through. She continued, "From what I've gathered here, supposedly there were five gems. But it was to our knowledge that there were only three, which are your sisters. Then when you showed up, it was to our surprise that there's a fourth."

I quizzically looked up at Sunset, "Then who is the fifth? I don't remember having a fifth sister..."

Sunset remain focused on the page, then turned to the next, "It doesn't mention anything about it. But it states something here..." Sunset read out loud, "The fifth witch of the four siren sisters: Thy fifth is unhampered, all gems must be shattered." She stopped reading, and pointed out a line in the book, "Then it explains here how we can defeat the witch, but the ink is blurred out..." She skipped a couple of lines within the book and read out loud again, "Thy witch may or may not appear in dreams, but your impending doom nears, my beloved. Sing now or never!" Sunset simply looked up at me with seriousness, "Clair... Have you had any weird dreams of this so-called witch?.."

My breath became short momentarily after hearing that one passage read which terrified me to my very soul. If it wasn't for Sunset, who knows where I'll be pend to. After months of trying to find an answer, we finally found it. Now explaining it to my sisters is going to be a hell of a ride.

Sunset nudged me one more time for my attention as I stared into blank space, "Clair, are you still with me?.."

I snapped into reality, and looked blankly at Sunset in a low voice, "... Yeah..."

Sunset sensed my nervousness, and my absent mind. It begged her a question of what caused me to express such emotion, "Clair, are you okay?" She placed her comforting hand on mine, and held it, "It's going to be alright Clair. We'll go through this together. Me, my friends, and your sisters."

I nodded, ".. Okay.. Thanks..."

Sunset continued comforting my hands with a concerned look in her eyes, "Do you want to go home, Clair? I can fetch a ride with you on the way home if you need me."

With the same expression, I delayed response, "It's okay, I can go alone.."

Sunset's concern grew, "... I'm sorry Clair, this was a bad idea..."

I sighed nervously, "No, you did the right thing of telling me sooner than later. Thank You.."

"Mmhm..." Sunset somewhat nodded, "Lets continue this another time... Lets take you home..." Sunset closed the book, placed it back inside her satchel bag, and zipped it closed. Sunset got up from her seat of her side of the booth, and helped me up. We both walked slowly, arm in arm, towards the bakery exit. Sunset turned her head to Mrs. Cake, who is currently helping three customers, and waved a farewell before we made our exit.

It's a sunny day as expected when the rain suddenly stopped. Sunset called a cab for us, and waited patiently on a nearby bench. Sunset made efforts to cheer me up by telling stories about how The Rainbooms were formed, and how Rainbow Dash thinks she's the epitome of the band. I thought it was pretty funny and cute. I also shared my stories about Cuddle Bug and Moon Dancer, how we all sometimes act loony in front of the public just for kicks and giggles. We also talked about music. She wanted to collab with me sometime when there's an upcoming event, and I gladly accepted that offer. Sunset does a great job on cheering me up, but I know it won't last long. The thought of the curse will always appear in the back of my subconscious mind.

The cheerful atmosphere suddenly turned really heavy. Adagio appeared right behind us. She stood there, with a sudden raging look in her eyes. We both turned around, shocked and horrified. "Sunset!..." Adagio had said in a very hateful voice, "You bitch." Adagio suddenly launched a critical slap across Sunset's face which made her falter to the ground.

"No, Adagio! What the hell are you doing?!" I jumped up and shoved Adagio away, "What was that for?!"

Adagio remain the same raging expression with her fist tightly clenched, "I did what I had to do."

I quickly knelt by sunset's side on the ground, and attempted to raise her head. Adagio's slap got her really good, causing her lips to bleed violently. I instantly took an extra tissue out of my pocket, and wiped her bleeding mouth.

Adagio's rage tangled in with confusion, as she absorbed this questionable involvement between me and Sunset. She couldn't believe what she was seeing. "I can ask the same for you, Clair..." She asked, "Why are you helping her?"

I can already feel the raging turmoil flowing through Adagio's veins, so I dodged her question for the mean time, and continue to aid Sunset. I'm aware of the things I've done, I know the consequences of my actions, which I'm prepared for. I know I shouldn't have went against Adagio's back, but like what Adagio had just said: I did what I had to do.

Chapter 15: Which Witch Would Watch Which Watch

It's one of those moments when the right person comes at the wrong time, and the wrong person comes at the right time. I was startled from Adagio's sudden act towards Sunset. I'm sure Sunset has done a terrible thing, but sure as hell did not deserve that kind of treatment, or anybody in particular.

"I'll be... I'll be fine, Clair..." Sunset signaled me to stop wiping the remnants of blood on her mouth. She slowly stood up without a quiver, and took a shallow breath with bitter expression at Adagio, "Adagio... I understand why you're really upset..."

Adagio's face once again contorted with rage, "Really now... Maybe I should explain a little more clearer."

Being in between two rivals, I surely hope I can hold them off. I'm quite uncertain how strong Sunset is, but I can say a lot for Adagio's manly strength. Predicting the outcome of this battle, Sunset would have no chance in hell. I put up both hands in a signal to stop Adagio from coming anymore closer to Sunset, "Adagio, you have got to stop."

Adagio's eyes remain fixated at Sunset, "You already won the game, what more do you want?"

"I want nothing from you, Adagio."

"Bullshit, why else would you be here with my sister."

Sunset shook her head, "... I'm only trying to help her, Adagio."

"We don't need your help." Adagio refuted, "We can handle this on our own, so just back the hell off."

Sunset replied, and went against Adagio's words, "No."

Adagio chortled in wrath, "S'cuse me?.. I don't think you realize how much danger you're facing."

After a moment's pause, Sunset begged to differ, "I do... But Clair is my friend, and I want to help her lift her curse: With the Magic of Friendship."

"You think you know us better than we do? I'll tell you what... You can take yours and your friends' puny little magic, and shove it." Adagio suddenly grabbed my wrist tightly, and dragged me along with her.

"Ow!.. Adagio, stop, you're hurting me!" I cried as I tried to pull away from Adagio's grip, but it was no use.

As Adagio continued to drag me down the path of the sidewalk, far enough, Sunset said in a loud voice, "Ya' know, some people are too prideful to go out and reach out to people to help them in a situation because it's just such a dark time."

In an instant, Adagio magically teleported in front of Sunset, grabbing on to her collar, pulling her up. "You're not in a position to say anything, you hear?... You destroyed everything I have."

Sunset, with her feet a couple of inches off the ground, she looked at Adagio's fiery eyes, with words in a low voice, "So... You still have your magic after all..."

"You know how they say you only hurt the ones you love? Well, it works both ways." Adagio threatened, "If I ever see you near Clair or any of my girls, I will kill you."

As Adagio still has Sunset on to her collar for a good amount of time, Sunset's pony ears magically grew out the top of her head, and her hair noticeably grew longer in length, extending down to her legs. With combined pixie dusts that dispersed from between them, she shoved Adagio away effortlessly, causing her to break away. I was greatly perplexed by Sunset's beautiful transformation right before my eyes. Now I understand why my sisters had lost. I take back what I said about Sunset, I never knew she was this strong, and I can only imagine if the rest of her friends were here. Sunset reached out her supporting hand to Adagio with a calming grin, "Adagio... Please let us help you girls. I understand how you feel, I've been through it all. Just because the plan did not turn out the way you wanted to, doesn't mean your future can't be better than you've ever imagined."

Adagio glared at Sunset, "How would you know?" Adagio had questioned, "Unlike you, I don't plan to change. Neither any of us will.."

"Adagio, you can't force people to remain unchanged because you want them to, even if you tried..." Sunset took her own hands back, "Sometimes the things we don't want changed, end up changing us."

Adagio took a moment to absorb Sunset's words, her thoughts lingered, "I.. I don't know what you're talking about.."

"Adagio... Don't act like you don't know..." Sunset said, "You and your sisters are living a normal life, working at a job just to maintain with all of the bills, and keeping food on the table... It's a change."

Adagio's facial expression changed, feeling lost and broken. Her fists became loose. She shook her head in silence, and hung her head low. Adagio knew she wouldn't get her gem back, but the least she can do was preserve her individuality as the leader. But even so, she fails. It was perhaps a rude awakening for her, least to say. She couldn't hide her emotions any longer, so she turned around and started walking away. I felt this overwhelming feeling of sadness within her, it's something that is a stranger to me. Nevertheless, I tried to get my oldest sister's attention, "Adagio..." I apologized with words in a low volume, "I... I'm sorry.."

Adagio's expression remain the same. She continued walking down the path the opposite direction, and replied to me in soft spoken words, "No, don't be... I should be the one apologizing.."

"No, Adagio, it's just..."

I couldn't finish my sentence because in those few seconds, Adagio cut me off with words, "Clair... Just let me be.."

Watching her walk away, though, still in her working clothes, I felt the pang of loneliness within her. When her presence became smaller in sight in a far distance, I soon realized, as my own emotions struck me, I needed to be there to comfort her. "Sunset... I have to go."

"Leave her be, she'll soon understand." Sunset refuted.

"No... I can't leave her... She's my sister..."

In a short moment of mindful pause, Sunset nodded, "I understand.."

"Thanks for understanding... I'll see you later." I nodded back, waved a farewell, and began walking the same path as Adagio.

HUMANAVILLE
2:58 AM; SAME NIGHT
SUNSET'S APARTMENT

It was yet another stormy night, Sunset sat by her dining table. Her area was dimly-lit by the illumination of her own opened laptop, a cup of half drunk coffee, and scattered paper documents haphazardly arranged in order. This was one of her nights spent, consumed by research. "Magic in this world is so much different than the world of Equestria... Why do I even bother collecting data from this world..." She questioned herself. She stared at her laptop screen for a long period of time, thinking about her confrontation with my sister earlier. As stubborn as Adagio can be, Sunset is not one to give up, she just has to try to find a way for Adagio to understand that she's only trying to help. Adagio is very strong willed. She tends to come off as cold or mean simply because she refuses to be taken for granted and mistreated. She learned that the hard way. Now given that Sunset is the reason for my sisters' downfall, it's understandable for Adagio to express such hatred towards her.

*Knock Knock Knock*

The sudden knocks from her apartment door gave her a sudden shock from her own absent mind. She thought a moment, and tilted her head in puzzlement. Who would come knocking on her door at this time of the night? Normally, she would've gotten up quickly to answer, but only this time, she did not. She had suddenly felt a strange presence the second she heard those knocks. Something terrifying was holding her back, and it was disturbing her.

*Knock Knock Knock*

In her contemplative mind, maybe she should at least get up and peek through the peep-hole to see who is behind it. She followed her instincts, and that is exactly what she did. She tip-toed quietly towards the door, and slowly peeked through the peep-hole. But there was no one visible in her view of sight. "Weird..." She made sure the door was locked, and latched. She took a deep breath, and exhaled in relief. She was hoping that it would be either Pinkie Pie or Rainbow Dash pulling a prank at this time of the night. She then giggled to herself, "Of course it is, those airheads always pulled a fast one on me." But Sunset finally remembered their conversation a couple of days ago that they both we're going to be out of town for the weekend. So it can't be them. Maybe it was someone who was lost or drunk, and had mistakenly knocked on her apartment door. She thought of these harmless possible things just to keep her mind at ease. But in the back of her mind, she knew something wasn't right.

*Knock Knock Knock*

The knocks were louder than the last, but seem different. It was then followed by a shrill laugh. The sounds did not come from the door this time, rather, it came from her dining table. Once again, Sunset's fear squeezed her stomach as she carefully observed the strange disturbances in her own apartment. Having no slightest idea what's causing such paranormal occurrences, but however, she could vaguely recall some fumblings in the night, not only around the doors, but around her windows also, upper as well as lower for the past couple of days. But she was never troubled by them. Sunset couldn't just stand there, but she was consumed by fear. She took a deep breath, and slowly approached her dining table whilst fancying her whole entire vicinity of her apartment room, each and every dark corner. When she finally got to her dining table, she examined it, but revealed nothing. She shook her head with a quizzical squint, combined with a shudder of terror. As she sat down, exhausting about a minute or two, she thought to herself, "Whatever it is, it probably has something to do with Clair's curse... The witch.." But this was all just her speculations. Maybe it is, or maybe the apartment is just plainly haunted.

The questionable knocks had finally stopped. But this had expanded Sunset's further research for the matter. As she sat by the dining table and drank the rest of her remaining coffee, she browsed through the internet in search for witches lore; Witchcraft in Folklore and Mythology, and began her deep research.

Author's Note

This was pretty short and sweet. What do you guys think so far? For those who have supported my story to this point, I would like to thank you. If not for you guys, I'd given up on this story long time ago.

Chapter 16: An Abysmal Surprise

HUMANAVILLE
1:00 PM; SUNDAY
PONYEVER 21

With the remaining free time Cuddle Bug and Moon Dancer have from all the studying on a Sunday, Cuddle Bug chose a place to kill some time. Poor Cuddle Bug, always been dragged from her bed just so Moon Dancer can have a study partner, despite of the little knowledge Cuddle Bug can only contribute. Cuddle Bug loved shopping for new clothes, but on the contrary, Moon Dancer didn't care about wearing the same thing over and over. Nevertheless, Moon Dancer thought it would be fair to let her have this one, after all, Cuddle Bug was always there to accompany her.

Cuddle Bug skipped along, browsing through from one clothing rack to another, while Moon Dancer followed her with her arms crossed. Moon Dancer couldn't get herself to wear any of the clothing she sees; fancy skirts, pretty blouses, and boots. There was one time I forced her to wear a skirt of my choice, it only took her three seconds, then she instantly removed it. She didn't really like showing her legs in public due to her insecurity, regardless of what Cuddle Bug and I say about it. I think if she dresses up nicely, she can be one of the sexiest girls in town. No pun intended on that.

"How does this look?" Cuddle Bug held a blouse against her upper body, presenting it towards Moon Dancer.

Moon Dancer in complete deadpan, "... Yeah, looks nice.."

"I know right?!" Cuddle Bug chuckled, "I'm soooo going to buy this one!"

Moon Dancer tapped Cuddle Bug's shoulder, "Pssst... Do you see that guy over there?" Moon Dancer said in a low voice as she discreetly pointed at a man who wore sunglasses, leaning against a wall. "I have a bad feeling about that guy..."

Cuddle Bug slyly looked at the direction where Moon Dancer pointed, "Hmm... How so? It's not like he's bothering us."

"Oh c'mon Cuddle Bug... There were times I caught him holding his phone up, taking photos of girls that walked by pass him." Moon Dancer said, "Now tell me... Do you see any other guys in this store but him?"

Cuddle Bug peered around the store, and found a male employee working at the cashier, "That guy over there." She pointed.

"Um, okay Cuddle Bug, but he's gay... So he doesn't count."

Cuddle Bug placed both hands on her own hips, and raised an eyebrow, "Hey! How would you know?"

"Look at his pink shirt, it says hashtag 'yes homo'. Also, can't you tell he's wearing make-up."

Cuddle Bug humphed, "Fine..."

Moon Dancer continued grimacing at the creepy guy. He wandered around mischievously. He waited for a random girl with a mini-skirt to walk pass him, then quickly, yet, slyly snapped a photo under her skirt. "You saw that?!" Moon Dancer proclaimed seeing the act.

Cuddle Bug paused from browsing through the dresses, "Could you please stop? If you keep up, you'll draw attention." Cuddle Bug sighed, "Now I know why Clair doesn't like shopping with you.... Because you do this."

"Cuddle Bug, explain to me why y'all even need to buy anymore clothes... Geez.. You girls still have some dresses in your closets that you don't even wear."

"Geez... It's always good to have a backup... Plus, I'm not that type of gal who wears the same clothes over and over, okay?" Cuddle Bug hinted, as she was actually referring to Moon Dancer.

"That's so not true..." Moon Dancer crossed her arms, and squinted with eyebrows lowered. As Moon Dancer noticed the creepy guy approaching near, she quickly nudged Cuddle Bug on her shoulder, "Shhh! Cuddle Bug, he's coming, he's coming!..."

The creepy guy with sunglasses and a calm, persistent, calculating expression on his face, ostentatiously approached us. He let out a sketchy grin, "Hey, I can't help but notice but your hot friend here keeps staring at me." The guy revealed his eyes as he shifted his sunglasses on the top of his head. He winked at Moon Dancer.

Moon Dancer grabbed Cuddle Bug by her arm, and gave him a grimace smile, "I'm sorry, we we're just leaving..."

"No wait, wait." The creepy guy halted, "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Zephyr Breeze, and I'm sorry if I scared you girls, but I'm an artist, ya' see, It's my job to stare at beautiful women."

"Okay? Well, that thing you did a moment ago, you call that art?" Moon Dancer questioned with irritation, "Didn't think I caught ya."

Zephyr Breeze laughed, "Oh, you mean photo snapping the girls? Of course it is!"

Moon Dancer moaned in disgust, "Ugh, get away from us you creep."

While Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug briskly walked towards the exit of the store, Cuddle Bug turned her head to look at Zephyr Breeze, and made lip movements inhibiting words, "I'm sorry."

Zephyr Breeze smirked with an increased tone directing at Moon Dancer across the room, "You'll soon grasp the way of the art, I don't want you to mistaken me as a pervert! I'm an artist!" Zephyr Breeze then snapped a photo of them exiting the store. He huffed out of laughter, and took another glance of the photo he had taken. "Yeah.. That's going in my collection. Good Job, Zephyr." He pat himself on the shoulder, and grinned.

Little do Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug know, Zephyr Breeze was Adagio's ex-boyfriend. Getting involved with someone who calls himself an artist, more like a scam artist, can lead to many problems and I'm sure Moon Dancer is smart enough to detect this. So walking out of the store was a smart move on their part, but this is just the beginning of a bad storm.

HUMANAVILLE
4:32 PM; SAME DAY
ADAGIO'S APARTMENT

After a few days since the incident between Sunset and Adagio, so much has happened in such a short time. For one major thing, Adagio made false orders in order to break my lease in the apartment I had rented for a very long time, and moved in with my sisters, which I was left with no choice but to make such a drastic decision. Secondly, she had forbade me to meet up with Sunset again. She overly stressed about how Sunset can't be trusted, and how she only wants one thing done: Destroying my gem. No matter how much I try to persuade Adagio otherwise, but she displays such a headstrong character. Having lived with her for thousands of years, that's one thing about her she'll never change. Sandal Wood got a new job a week ago at Home Depot, and has been busy since then. So with little time we both have, is only spent on texting. Nonetheless, we planned about going on a picnic this coming weekend on his day off. I can't wait to see him again.

Sonata and I sat by the dining table, and played a couple of games of poker. Aria didn't want to be bothered because she was really busy doing job-related things on her computer, so she stayed in her bedroom. But still, we all couldn't wait for Adagio to come home from work. She texted Aria that she was going to be late tonight, but will be bringing home tacos. Sonata jumped for joy as soon as she heard about it.

"So Clair, what do you think of the idea of having a surprise party for Aria's birthday?"

I grinned while shuffling the cards, "I think it's a great idea, Aria would love that."

"You really think so?!" Sonata leaned forward with cheerfulness.

"Yeah, but promise me you'll wear a helmet before doing so."

"Why would I need to do that?"

"To save you the trouble of Aria punching you in the face."

Sonata laughed in bewilderment, "Umm, that happened only one time, because I broke her expensive hair straightener."

My eyebrow shot up, "How much was the expensive straightener?"

Sonata shrugged, "I don't know.."

I chortled and shook my head incredulously, I took the deck of cards and began to lay them out for the both of us for the next round of poker. As Sonata hummed a melody, she waited patiently before starting our next round of poker. She cleared her throat with words in a low voice, "Ummm, by the way Clair... Don't tell Adagio and Aria what I'm about to tell you."

"What?.."

"I have a boyfriend, yay!"

To my sudden surprise, the cards have been shuffed and thrown all over the place. My eyes widened, and looked at Sonata again with anger and concern, "And you think it's alright to tell me?"

Sonata let out a nervous laugh and a grimace, "Uhh, yes?"

"Sonata... The answer is no. Break up with him ASAP."

"Why?!"

"Because, you don't know anything about love and relationship, making wrong decisions could hurt you."

"What do you know about love and relationship, huh?" Sonata questioned as she shook her head side to side with both hands on her hips.

"Enough to know that there are a bunch of perverts out there who just wants to get in your pants."

"Duh! That's why I wear skirts all the time. C'mon Clair, what kind of an idiot you take me for?.."

I blinked and stared at her blankly, "Ummmm... Uhh.."

"Exactly the answer I'm expecting, Hmph!" Sonata attested while crossing her arms.

I rolled my eyes, and sighed, "... I give up... But I'm telling Adagio."

"Why?!"

I leaned forward, then gave her the angry stare, "Listen to me, Sonata. You suck at hiding stuff, okay? Oh and if Adagio finds out that you're dating someone, you already know what's gon' happen. So you either break up with this guy, or I will tell Adagio myself, am I clear?"

Sonata's lower lip protruded in a sulky pout, "... What's up with you and Adagio not wanting me to make friends?.."

I leaned back on my seat, and my eyebrows went up in a concerned expression, "Well... It's just... With the way things are, I don't think it's safe to make friends right now, Sonata."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, with my gem and all... We don't know what may happen next, but it's always good to stay safe from all danger." I placed my hand upon hers, "Even as simple as making new friends."

Sonata understood what I strictly implied. She nodded, "... Okay."

I grinned, and gave her a comfort rub on her palm, "Atta girl. Now what do you do?"

Sonata sighed lightly, "I'll break up with him..." I looked at her intently, urging her to finish her sentence, "... Ughh!.. I'll break up with him tomorrow."

I let out a bright smile, "Thank You, Sonata. Now just because you made me happy, I'll let you pick out a game to play tonight."

Sonata suddenly perked herself up, a smile of debonair gallantry lit up her face. "YAY!" She paused for a second, "Wait... Are you sure it's okay for me to pick out a game two nights in a row?"

I nodded with a warm and glowing smile, "Seems fair, if you ask me."

I love Sonata so much. After all, she's the youngest sister, so she gets all the affection. At least from Adagio and me. Aria, on the other hand, shows her consideration by picking a fight with Sonata and making her cry. But I know deep inside Aria, she loves Sonata as much as I do. This treatment between them has helped me see this. Why I was so blind not to see it before is beyond me.

*Knock Knock Knock*

"I got it!" Sonata shouted. She suddenly got up from her seat, and ran towards the apartment door to answer it.

The voice was heard from Aria's bedroom, behind closed door, "Geez, Sonata! Could you shout more louder please?!"

"Sorry!" Sonata replied in a loud voice.

The second Sonata opened the door for Adagio, instantly, a searing pain branded the inner walls of my skull, causing my vision to blur once again, followed by a sustained ringing, supervening an echo of voices coming from both of my sisters, "Clair! What's happening? Are you okay?!" Everything felt so slow. I drew in a deep breath and squinted my eyes, willing myself to escape the vision. It was the same kind of attack I experienced that night at the Christmas Showcase, but worse. As I felt my shortness of breath approaching, I lost control, and fell from my chair unconsciously.

Sonata and Adagio came quickly by my side to provide aid. Sonata briskly elevated my head on her lap, and Adagio attempted to wake me up from my own unconscious state. When Aria heard the commotions from her own bedroom, she quickly opened her bedroom door, shocked by the thought of seeing three of her sisters by the kitchen floor. She joined in to contribute medical help. "What happened?!" Aria questioned as she felt the hot temperature on my forehead.

"I... I don't know, Aria!" Sonata stuttered with a scared look on her face, "When I opened the door for Adagio, I turned around, and saw her collapsed out of nowhere!"

"Aria, call 911." Adagio demanded in a rushed tone.

"Okay!" Aria walked outside of the apartment, instantly took her phone out, and dialed out for emergency.

As Sonata and Adagio gazed down on me, hoping in a minute that I would snap back to my conscious state, their faces suddenly flashed with illumination by countless bright rays of light from my own gem. They were cherry red, glittering in the light like glass marbles. It was almost blinding. They have never seen anything so beautiful, but deadly. It lasted about ten seconds, the intensity of the light diminished in brightness. Adagio and Sonata exchanged puzzling glances. "What... What was that?.." Sonata, with a blank expression, she was unsure how to react to what just happened.

Adagio carefully ran her fingers through my hair that was covering half of my pale face. I was still unconscious, but Adagio felt my temples throbbing, and my pulse beating normally once again. Adagio let out a reassuring smile, "I don't know, Sonata... But Clair is going to be alright."

Sonata looked up at Adagio, feeling relief, her tears seeped down her cheeks. "Adagio... I don't like what's happening to her..."

Aria walked in, "Okay guys, the ambulance is on their way in a minute!" Aria drew near, "How is she?"

Adagio replied, "She's going to be alright. But she really needs medical attention right now."

Aria nodded, "Yeah..."

Adagio looked up at Aria, giving her the concern look, "Aria... It happened again.."

Aria let out an attentive look back at Adagio, "Her gem lit up?"

Both Adagio and Sonata nodded. This moment made Adagio realize that if she doesn't do anything soon, my life will be in great danger. Adagio's truly scared to death, but she doesn't express it. She tries to stay strong only because she's the oldest sister, and it's her responsibility to take care of us. But she has to understand that she can't stay with us forever, they're considered human beings. Immortality is not all that it is made out to be; It is a myth. Nothing lasts forever.

Two men with paramedic uniforms entered the apartment room, both carried a stretcher. "ER Service for Clair De Lune?" One of the men had called out.

"Over here." Adagio signaled them to approach near my unconscious body.

The men quickly walked towards us, one of them opened a bag of medical supplies and took out a ventilator with a tubing connection. The same man inserted the breathing tube through my nose, then quickly placed me on the stretcher. They were fast. As they escorted me out of the apartment door, one of them confirmed the location of hospital where they were going to take me, "We're taking her to Humana Regional Hospital ER."

"Okay, Thanks. We'll be over there shortly..." Adagio nodded, then the paramedics made their exit out of the building.

A short moment of pause, the silence had brooded in betwixt the three of them. Usually Sonata would break it, but it never happened. However, Aria stepped in, "C'mon people, we gotta go."

Sonata agreed, "Yeah, I miss Clair already... Lets go."

Adagio nodded, "You girls go on ahead, I'll catch up in a bit."

As Sonata and Aria grabbed their coats, Adagio watches them rush out of the apartment door. She took one final peek, making sure they were completely gone. She then took her cell phone out, and placed an out going call.

A familiar voice was heard on the other side of Adagio's phone, "Yes, Adagio?"

Adagio replied, "Sunset.... It's about Clair... It happened again, they took her to the ER." Adagio sighed, "... We really need all the help we can get..."

Sunset gasped, "I'll.. I'll be on my way! Which hospital is she in?!"

Adagio couldn't think straight, so she stammered in words, "I... I don't think you can come, Sunset..." Adagio couldn't give her the hospital location because she wouldn't know how Aria would react to the situation if she saw Sunset there. She continued, "I gotta go Sunset, we'll talk more about it later." Adagio hung up and then took a deep breath. She was upset, ashamed, but then an overwhelming fear took over her. This wasn't the right time to think about what's right or wrong, but what's more important is that Aria and Sonata are waiting outside for her, so the three of them can finally head to the ER together.

Chapter 17: Expect The Unexpected

HUMANAVILLE
8:39 PM; SAME EVENING
HUMANA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL ER

Twenty minutes have been exhausted since the time my sisters left the apartment, arrival at the Humana Memorial Hospital ER. But then, more time was wasted as they checked in at the front desk, trying to get all the preliminaries out of the way, signing some stupid consent forms. It was to the point where Aria was ready to punch the administrative assistant, but Adagio and Sonata seized her from doing so.

When the hard part was finally done, the administrative assistant kindly gave them my room number. She verbally gave them directions upon taking an elevator to the second floor, and to take a couple of confusing turns.

As they got to the second floor, they followed the route which led them to a big hallway. Observing one room to the next, they finally reached the end, and my room is just on the right. The feeling of dread was felt in the pit of their stomach of what lies ahead when they see me in such critical state. Adagio took a deep breath, then motioned herself towards the entrance of my room, and so did Aria and Sonata.

They all had worried looks on their faces, seeing me lying on a hospital bed, with a vital monitor connected to my body.

"Adagio, will she be alright?" Sonata's mood was glum at this given time, and was hoping for a good answer.

Adagio sighed with a delayed response, "Sonata... I'd be lying if I say yes.. We'll just have to wait for the nurse to tell us..."

"... Adagio, stop acting like you know what you're saying." Aria gnarled.

Adagio scowled at Aria, and pursed her lips with irritation, "I'd watch my mouth if I were you."

"Come on Adagio, we were clueless awhile ago. What makes you think these stupid doctors or nurses know what's going on with Clair's gem, huh?"

"Oh! I'm sorry, okay?! I wasn't thinking straight, bringing Clair here was the next best thing we can do." Adagio's tone increased, justifying her cause, "What could you have done, Aria?... Let's hear it."

Aria, with no words of response, she rolled her eyes, then let out a disdainful expression, and looked away with arms crossed.

"Girls, this is not the time to argue." Sonata intervened with an attempt to break the argument, "Right now, Clair needs our help. We gotta think of something..."

Both Adagio and Aria gave each other the glare. Aria looked away, and sucked her teeth. Adagio raised both her eyebrows intently back at her.

*Sonata's cell phone rings*

"Hang on.." Sonata took her cell phone out, and answered, "Hello?"

A voice replied with a smothered shriek on the other side of Sonata's phone, "Sonata, it's me Moon Dancer. We're here, which room are you girls in?"

Sonata told her the room number, and warned her how puzzling it is to find their way here.

"Okay, thanks. Me and Cuddle Bug will be there shortly."

Aria and Adagio stared at Sonata fixedly as soon as she ended the phone call. "Who was that?" Adagio asked.

Sonata hid her phone back in her pocket, "That was Moon Dancer. She and Cuddle Bug are coming."

*Knock Knock Knock*

As we all turned our heads to the sounds of the knocks, a middle-aged nurse casually entered, "Evening ladies, did I come in a bad time?"

"Nope"
"Nope!"
"Yes..."

Adagio, with a scowling look, she pinched Aria's arm because of her affirmative answer, "Ow! What the hell was that for?" Aria rubbed her aching skin from the hard pinch.

Adagio stifled a retort, in a low voice, "Listen, you piece of crap, there's no room for negativity here and you're really pushing it, you know that? Why don't you act like a human for once, dammit."

Aria rolled her eyes, "Ugh!..."

Adagio and Sonata let out an awkward grin towards the nurse, Adagio chortled, "I'm sorry miss, my sister here had her period today, so pay her no mind."

The nurse smiled back nervously at them, "Oh... Of course, mood swings can flare up unexpectedly during menstrual cycle, so no offense taken here." She drew closer near the vital monitor to examine my current vital stats. She nodded, "Hmm... We're glad to know that her blood pressure and her heart rate is back to normal."

"Was that the reason why she suddenly passed out?" Adagio questioned worryingly.

"We don't know why she passed out. But her blood pressure and her heart rate were very low. Depending on what may have caused her illness, can be a multitude of things. The doctor wants her to undergo a couple of testings to find out what really happened."

"Would we be able to find out today?"

"No, right now what she needs is a good rest."

Adagio and Sonata nodded, willing to agree to anything if it meant saving my life. Aria has finally made peace within her as her attitude changed from grumpy to an expression of uneasiness.

The nurse let out a warm smile, and signaled an invitation to sit down with reassuring words, "Why don't you girls sit down, I'll get more comfy chairs here in a bit. Clair here will be fine, so don't worry. She's in good hands."

The comforting words gave Adagio a relinquished smile, "Thank you so much."

"Always a pleasure." The nurse pushed a couple of buttons on the vital monitor to reset my stats on the screen, "I'll be right back with more comfy chairs. If you girls ever need me, just let me know."

Adagio nodded, "Will do, Thanks again."

As the nurse excused herself out of the room. My three siren sisters looked at each other and didn't speak for a short period of time. Sonata initialized, "So Adagio... What now?.."

Adagio sat herself down on the edge of her seat, and hung her head low, "Sonata... Please stop asking me that.."

Aria, feeling sympathetic for Adagio, she began apologizing about earlier. "Adagio... I'm sorry I acted like a bitch. I know you're trying your best here, but I don't want you to feel pressured that you're the only with all the answers here." Aria sat on a chair next to her, crossed her arms, not sure if she should pat her on the shoulder, or just give her space, but she felt like she needed to give Adagio the comfort just as the way she did for all of us when we needed her.

Adagio looked up at Aria with a faint grin, "... Thanks Aria..."

"Yeah whatever.."

Sonata seeing this, it filled her heart with joy. "Awwww!"

Sudden sounds of flip flops rapidly tapping were heard just outside the hospital room, Moon Dancer and Cuddle Bug rushly entered, "Is she alright?!" Moon Dancer still trying to catch her breath, she examined the room and gasped as she sees me resting on the bed, "Oh my gosh..." Both my best friends drew in closer near my head side of the bed, and gazed at me fixedly. Moon Dancer faintly shook her head, "... Did it happen again?"

Adagio sighed lightly, "Unfortunately, Yes..."

Cuddle Bug turned her head to face my three sisters, "This has got to stop... If this keeps on, we don't know what will happen to Clair next. For all we know, she might end up dead."

Sonata gasped and covered her mouth with both of her palms, "Oh no.. I don't want that.."

In this given moment, Adagio, feeling overwhelmed with the urge to confess about this whole gem situation in front of everybody in the room. She struggled to narrow her focus to determine the best approach to the impending humiliation, but there was no other way. Nevertheless, she went along with telling them the honest truth, "I... I had a meeting with Sunset earlier..."

Aria stared down at her, obviously shocked and disappointed by what Adagio had just said, with the mention of Sunset's name. "You what?!"

"Aria, calm down. Give me a chance to explain."

"No!" Aria halted, "You've explained enough. Out of everyone, why her?"

"Because she is the only one who can help?..." Adagio replied, "You even said it yourself... I'm not the only one with all the answers here..."

"When I said we, I meant US sisters only." Aria exclaimed.

"Well... Do you?" Adagio raised an eyebrow, "I can speak for Sonata because sure as hell I know she wouldn't have the slightest idea... But do you?"

Everyone in the room eyeballed at Aria, long enough the air almost started to pulse with tension. As Aria's breath was fueled by anger, she couldn't bottle it up anymore. She rises up from her chair instantly and knocked it over, barely hitting Cuddle Bug's leg in the process. She stormed out of the room with rage.

"Ummm, is she going to be okay?" Moon Dancer said, still frightened and confused by what just happened.

"Just leave her, she just needs some space." Adagio rubbed her aching head, "Give her about an hour or so, she'll be good as new..."

Sonata sat near Adagio, and comforted her with an arm rub, "Ummm... Dagi... If Sunset and her friends are all we got, then I'm in for it." Sonata is not the brightest, but definitely not the dumbest. Even for her, she knows that it's the only choice they have of saving me. It's all or nothing.

Six hours earlier...

Barely after lunch, customers swarmed in as soon as they heard about Tall Tale Fabric Warehouse offering free swatches of any choice of fabric. Adagio was nearly holding the fort along with her three assistant managers, and fourteen employees trying to satisfy every customer. But of course, there were some unsatisfied ones, leaving a bad review. "I can't make everyone happy.." Adagio thought, "If I only knew it was going to be this bad, I wouldn't have held this event from the start.." Adagio literally runs the company. She handles the day-to-day management employing about hundreds of workers who provide, not just retail, but food services that are tied with the company at about almost all of East coast branches. Her Resumé is set.

A few hours later, the craziness had slow down for a bit, but they made tons of sales. After making a couple of rounds on every aisle of the store, she called out a couple of her employees to help restock some of the fabrics that have been sold out. Adagio thought this would be an opportune time taking another break, which is exactly what she did, besides, she needed to re-order some supplies and maintain the company's inventory for the week, and all this must be done through her own office computer.

In the middle of processing orders in her own office computer, she paused momentarily in a state of deep thought about that day when she showed up in front of Sugarcube Corner with Sunset and me. "What if Sunset was right all along?" She contemplated. Adagio spent all her time trying to find a way back home to Equestria, but all she's ever done was move further away from the goal. She kept Aria and Sonata reassured that she has a plan, and that she will get their gems back, but in reality, she doesn't have a plan. Telling them the truth hurts, but giving them false hope hurts more. It's a problem for another day for Adagio, but right now, she wants to leave work early and head off to Sugarcube Corner, hoping Sunset would be there to discuss about my flaring curse.

Few hours later, Adagio decided to take a cab instead of a transportation bus to keep her identity hidden from the people she knew. She wore a gray hoodie and sweatpants. She had her hood over her head, and a pair of large sunglasses on her face. As the cab finally arrived at the destination in front of Sugarcube corner, she was getting some stare from her surrounding strangers. Needless to say, that didn't bother her, so she entered the bakery like so, and peered around. She made sure of herself that no one in the bakery she knew hung out there so she can finally take her hood and sunglasses off. The bakery was pretty quaint, and there were only four customers. They were minding their own business, not caring about the girl with a bushy hair making her entrance. But the lady behind the desk did, she let out a welcoming smile with a friendly greet, "Hello there, Sweetie, Welcome to Sugarcube Corner where all our tasty sweets are made fresh!" It was a moment which made it difficult for Adagio to believe I actually lived the kind of life. She's still trying to understand why I chose to take the good side, rather to hypnotize the town to do my bidding is beyond her knowledge. After all, we are sirens, and we're born to do such things.

"..Hi.." Adagio said in a low voice. Adagio has never been inside this bakery before, but speaking from her retail point of view, it's not that bad of a service.

"Is this your first time here?" The lady behind the desk asked.

"Yes..." Adagio nodded.

"Well, you can either order something to take out, or sit anywhere you like if you decide to dine in here."

Adagio discreetly rolled her eyes at the lady's statement, but accepted her kindness of gratitude. "Thanks, I think I'll sit over there.." Adagio pointed to a booth near a window. She looked at the lady once again, "Ummm, would you happen to know a girl that goes by the name Sunset Shimmer?"

The lady's eyes widened, and let out an eccentric smile, "Why yes! As a matter of fact, she'll be here shortly. She always stops by to pick up a fresh loaf of bread."

Adagio nodded with a faint smile, "Thanks... I'll wait for her by the booth."

"Okay, Let me know if you need anything, but I will let her know as soon as she comes in."

She sat by the booth near the window, crossed her legs, twiddling her fingers as she waited patiently. She fancied the vicinity of the bakery and figured why I like this place so much. Not only is it a friendly atmosphere, the place presented perfectly for people who needed to blow off steam and enjoy a cup of vanilla shake or a slice of strawberry shortcake. This made Adagio crave for power again. This brought her moment that if she still had her gem, she'd be mind controlling the people in this bakery by now. She chortled to herself thinking about such things. The things she, Aria, and Sonata would do: Hopping from one restaurant to another just to stir up trouble. It was Adagio's master plan. But now, they're nothing more than self-serving, lying manipulator, and insecure-powerless beings: Humans.

"Adagio?"

She looked up to the sound, calling her name. There stood Sunset Shimmer right before her, with a satchel backpack. She sat across from her within the booth and asked worryingly, "Is everything alright?"

Adagio sighed deeply to indicate how profoundly she needed help. Sunset was the least person she would expect to call, but this has been a desperate time for her, me, and the rest of my sisters.

"...Yeah..." Adagio gave her a brooding look, "We really could use your knowledge on this subject. I don't think I have any other way..."

Sunset hearing this from Adagio, she looked at her with expression of sympathy. "I want you to know that you're not alone on this." She placed her satchel bag on her side of the booth, "But we certainly can't do this without you... So we have to work as a team."

Adagio gave a delay of response with her head thrown back, "... So what do you have in mind?"

Sunset explained as she was taking out that same rusty old book from Equestria she had shown me a couple of days ago, "I've done my fair share of research, trials and errors, comparing and analysis, it turns out the possible cure for this, is something called The Swan Song.." She dropped the rusty book on the table in front of them, and crossed her arms. "It explains it here." She opened to the penultimate chapter of the book, and began reading it to her.

"Lemme stop you there." Adagio cut Sunset off short from the opportunity of reading the possible answer to lift the curse which she was about to reveal, "Just stop..."

"Ummm, okay?" Sunset looking puzzled as to why she wanted her to suddenly stop reading.

Adagio leaned forward, and looked at her intently, "Is this a book about how to kill a siren for dummies?"

"Huh? Wha?... No!" Sunset replied without hesitation.

"You do realize that singing the swan song is the end of all siren kind..." Adagio attested, "Why can't you and your friends just use your so called friendship magic on Clair, and then we'll call it a day..."

"Would be nice if it was that easy, but our magic of friendship doesn't find Clair as a threat. So it's not going to work."

"Figures..." Adagio, losing hope, she put her head down on the table.

With short silence, Sunset thought of an idea, "... Although... There may be another way..." She held her own chin with her knuckles in deep thought, "Magic of Friendship can also save the weary."

Adagio, with her head still down, she squinted up at Sunset, "What are you talkin' about?.."

"I mean.. You said it, if the swan song is known to end all of siren kind, that's when we come in and use our Magic of Friendship to save the day, Hah!" She loudly tapped the table with both of her hands, and instantly rose up from her seat, "That's the plan!"

Adagio laughed in a breathy, gleeful way, "Don't make me laugh..."

Sunset squinted down at Adagio, "Funny... How you think this is a joke..."

"Because it is!" Adagio instantly stood up with a protest, "You think I'm going to risk our lives? And what if the friendship magic doesn't work? Then we're screwed!"

"Can you possibly stand seeing Clair like that?" Sunset questioned irritably, "Whenever her curse flares up, it's something that she can't control on her own, and it gets worse day by day."

"How would you know?"

"C'mon Adagio, No one is that stupid, we both know she's not doing too well, and it's just a matter of time that her gem will fully submerge her under her own dark magic. It's basic magic 101, Adagio..."

"I know, but I can't!..." Adagio realized that she needed to lower her volume. She reinitialized in a standardized tone, "I don't think I can do it... Okay?.." She then sat back down with downcast eyes.

As Sunset observed Adagio's emotion, she also sat down, and placed her comforting palm on hers, "Look... I know this is too much to take in. I know it is, without a question, a suicidal mission on your part, but this is our only chance of hope to save Clair." Adagio, with no words of response, she still preserved the same expression. Sunset continued, "All you have to do is sing your hearts out with Clair, and we'll handle the rest."

Adagio gained a little bit of hope, then gazed at Sunset, "I don't know... Least lemme just think about it... I need time."

Sunset respected Adagio's decision. She knew that it wasn't an easy choice to make right away. She nodded, "Sure, of course." She took her phone out of her pocket, "Lets exchange phone numbers. So when anything weird happens, we got each other's contact information."

"Fine." As Adagio verbally gave Sunset her phone number, she sent Adagio a text message. So all she needs to do is save that phone number.

Adagio stood up from her side of the booth, and put on her pair of sunglasses. "I gotta go. But we'll keep in touch."

"Absolutely." Sunset's single eyebrow raised, her mind questioned why Adagio had to wear such an attire.

Adagio read her mind through her own facial expression, "I have my reasons, Sunset. Don't look at me like that."

Sunset made hand gestures "Oh, no no no, it wasn't like that. I totally understand... You don't want to be noticed."

"...Yeah..."

Sunset smiled, waved a goodbye, and watched her walk towards the exit.

After Adagio spent ten minutes walking to a nearby bus stop bench, her mind boggled about the whole situation with Clair, that she had almost forgotten what to get for dinner. Off the top of her head, taco doesn't sound so bad after all. She took her phone out to draft a text message to Aria, letting the girls know that she's going to be running home late and that she'll be bringing home some food from Taco Bell.

"Well, well... If it isn't Adagio, then hell hounds must've broke loose."

As Adagio quickly hid her phone away, she scowled at the familiar voice, "... Zephyr Breeze.."

Zephyr Breeze motioned himself closer, then sat beside her on the bench with a smirk, "What's up?" He notices Adagio shifting away, pressing as far as she could into the corner of the bench. "Oh, what... You're not going to talk to me?"

Adagio did not want anything to do with him anymore because he did her wrong in so many levels when they were together. Plus, their break up did not end on a good note. "... What the hell you want me to say?"

"Aw, c'mon, at least ask how my life has been, or you might wanna ask that it's been quite a long time and what have you been up to kind of thing, yeah?" Zephyr Breeze got the silent treatment, but still attempted to elaborate with her, "Lets put the past behind us, it was a long time ago."

"It's only been six months, Zephyr." Adagio snapped back with irritation, "What do you want from me?"

"I want a truce..." Zephyr Breeze looked at her intently, "Lets face it, Adagio. We had something special. What we had was amazing, and it's a shame that we had to part. But I couldn't let that go. So I thought maybe we can at least remain friends."

Adagio's old feelings for Zephyr came rushing back in. As if she was under Zephyr's love spell. She already learned from her mistakes going back to that hell hole, but somehow, hearing Zephyr's voice, puts her in a state of confusion. Her thoughts lingered, "I... I don't know Zephyr.. I don't think it's a good idea..."

"Please, Adagio.. I missed you so much.." He placed a comforting hand on her leg, "I never realized I had something sooooo good until I lost it." Zephyr gently held her chin, and turned her to face him, "Why don't you spend some time at my place. We don't have to do anything. We can just talk... Whaddaya say.."

Adagio couldn't resist to say no, so she went with the flow, "Umm... Okay.."

"Come with me.." Zephyr took her by her hand, then started walking together to his own place, which wasn't that far away.

Adagio wasn't thinking straight, but she loved Zephyr as much as he did, to say the least. Also, Zephyr was Adagio's first love, but they broke up. Little does Adagio know, that moving backwards like that can open up a can of worms, and she knew it. But she just didn't care.

As they both finally arrived at Zephyr's apartment, the place was a total mess. Left over pizza boxes on his counter-top that only Celestia knows how long that's been, clothes are in complete disarray all over his living room. Adagio now realizing this after being with him for so long, it's disgusting. "Hmm.. I guess when they say love is blind, is indeed true after all." She murmured to herself.

"I'm sorry?" Zephyr begged her to repeat that last line again.

Adagio shook her head with hand gestures, "Oh nothing, I was just saying, umm... This place brings back memories." She then let out an awkward smile.

Zephyr smirked, "You're so cute, Adagio." He took her hand once again, and he led them both towards his own bedroom, "Come..."

Adagio's heart was beating fast. She knew where this was heading. Adagio hasn't had sex in so long, so this opportunity made it hard for her to resist. As she sat on the edge of Zephyr's bed softly, she looked up at him with a mixture of shyness and desperation.

Adagio gulped, "Zephyr... We're just going to talk, right?" She asked nervously.

Zephyr leaned down towards Adagio's ears and whispered seductively, "You can say that." Then gave her a sudden, long kiss on the lips. Gently at first but with a growing intensity. She reached one hand up around his back and the other in his hair, pulling him towards her. She could feel the fire starting to build inside her when he suddenly took a quick step back to gain a good leverage, and carried her to obtain a better position on the bed. He straddled himself on top of her to kiss her more passionately. Adagio decided that she wanted to be the dominant one, so she re-positioned herself to be on top of him, and continued to kiss him tenderly. As she fortuitously looked on the side of Zephyr's boxer drawer, there were four black fuzzy hand-cuffs. An idea flashed through her brain, relinquishing a smirk on her face. She pulled away from the kiss for a short period, and whispered in his ear seductively, "I love kinky stuff, remember that one night?"

With Zephyr's recollection to Adagio's question, he had let out a seductive smile, "Why yes, how could I forget?.."

Adagio giggled, "Why don't we lose these clothes of yours, and let's handcuff you to these bed posts just as how you did me."

"Seems fair to me." Zephyr Breeze carelessly took his clothes off, leaving just his boxers on, and tossed them on the ground. Zephyr Breeze reached both his wrists out to her, "What are we waiting for?"

"Look who's the impatient one here." Adagio chuckled. She reached in to the side of the bed and grabbed the handcuffs. Yawning, she glanced over at him. Judging by how he'd allowed her to shackle him to the bedpost with the fur-lined handcuffs, she narrowed her gaze at his body. She'd handcuffed only his right wrist, for comfort, and his arm angled up toward the bedpost.

"Oooh, Adagio, I forgot how rough you can get."

Adagio huffed out of laughter, "You've seen nothing yet." She took the rest of the remaining cuffs, then roughly cuffed his left wrist, and his two ankles. She walked towards the front of the bed, and stood there. "How does that feel?"

She shook her head at the radical change in Zephyr's behavior. This had made Zephyr feel strangely different. The road to a man's submission drove straight through his stomach. Zephyr jerked his cuffed wrist, "I, uh.. I feel... Really secured?" He jerked it once more, followed by a nervous laughter, "Is it really necessary to cuff me this tight, babydoll?"

"It's all a part of the play, baby." Adagio tilted her head with a scornful grin. She crossed her arms, "But the fun begins here."

Zephyr's eyes widened with fear as he attempts to break free from his secured position, "Damn you, Adagio. Let me go, you crazy bitch!"

"I love it when you talk dirty." Adagio instantly took her phone out, and snapped a bunch of photos of him, barely naked on the bed. "By the way, I'm not the bitch, karma is." She continuously snapped multiple photos.

"Is this all because of a stupid break up?"

Adagio stopped to glance at her own phone to see how many pictures she had taken, "Hmmm... I think twenty photos are enough to post up on facebook and all of the places in Humanaville, don't cha think?"

"I swear, if you do that, I'll make your life a living hell!"

Adagio raised an eyebrow, "Thanks to you, I'm half way there." She hid her phone back in her pocket, and waved an index finger wiggle goodbye to him, "Buh bye now." Adagio giggled whilst making her exit out of the bedroom.

"What the hell?... Come back here, Adagio! LET ME FREE!!!!!!!! I WON'T BE ABLE TO FAP TO DONKEY PORN IF I'M CUFFED LIKE THIS!" Those were Zephyr's final words in a loud voice. Adagio never knew that about Zephyr, which made her sick to her stomach. She hastily walked out, and finally made her exit out of the apartment door.

Author's Note

Hey ya'll.... Ummm, I got nothing to say here... Sorry to make you read this note. Bye now!

something random: SHARK SANDWICH FOR THE WIN!

Chapter 11: Air on the G String

HUMANAVILLE
6:14AM; WEDNESDAY
ADAGIO'S APARTMENT

As Adagio opened the curtains to lighten up the living room, the sun was still working its way up above the dark blue sky. She stood by the window and browsed outside to see the aftermath of a bad snow storm. The cars were all covered in snow and the snowy streets were being plowed by trucks. Adagio held a mug of coffee, and wore her usual graphic tee in the morning. She never wore pants in the morning because she didn't feel the need to since her shirt extended down just above her knees. As she continually feasted her eyes through the beautiful white snow outside the window, she heard a throat clearing behind her. She turned around.

"Morning Adagio..." Aria's raspy voice in the morning always made Adagio laugh on the inside.

Adagio smiled, and turned back around to continue gazing through the window, "Morning... You're up early." She took a sip of her coffee.

Aria rubbed her eyes in wakefulness, and sat by the dining table with legs crossed, "I had to go to bed early last night. Work was frickin' stressful."

It wasn't normal for Adagio to be up this early either and Aria already sensed what's going through her head, but Adagio kept herself quiet. Although she loves the peace and the quietness on Wednesday morning, she displays such extraordinary anxiety at the reality of their situation; The fact that it was herself to blame for the disappearance of their gems. Aria and Sonata fully understands, but Adagio never forgave herself for it. She tried every possible way to retrieve their gems back, but magic in this world is so much different than she had expected, and Aria badgering her about what their next course of action, just puts a lot of pressure on her. On the tip of that iceberg, she now has my gem to deal with. Adagio wishes she can just run away from the problem but it's her responsibility as the oldest sister to take care of us, whatever the circumstances are.

"I brewed some fresh coffee if you still need a little energy charge." She took another sip of her coffee, ".. You work today?"

Aria with an instant retort, "No.."

Aria and Sonata started working around a couple of weeks to a month, shortly after their downfall. Aria wasn't fond of working to begin with. Living a mortal life like any human being in this planet, dealing with customers at a fast food joint selling burgers, just irritates her. Sonata, on the other hand, worked at a retail store, but has difficulties coping with tasks when they're given. One time the manager called Adagio to tell her that she's been knocking down multiple display mannequins, creating a domino effect almost everyday. Which can be a health hazard to customers. But she still loves doing what she does.

Aria sighed and broke the silence, "So... How do you feel?"

"I've been better."

Aria is known to be the most stubborn sister compared to all of us, not to mention, the most despicable. But she does have a soft spot, only towards her sisters, and Adagio knows this. So Aria being stressed at work, and going to bed earlier than usual was just a lame excuse why she's up so early. She was actually up all night worrying about Adagio. The fact that she's not elaborating the discussion, made it more difficult for Aria.

"Well..." Aria tapped her fingers on the table, "Hey Adagio, you're not gon' believe what happened at work yesterday. A co-worker of mine brought an Easy-Bake oven, and then he uses it to bake beef patties rather than tossing them onto a grill. Ain't that messed up? And then he had the audacity to... "

Adagio merged in with words before Aria finishing her sentence, "You don't have to fill the silence, Aria."

Aria groaned and crossed her arms, "Fine..." She got up from her seat with an attitude, and walked towards the kitchen to help herself with a cup of coffee. She sighed and mumbled, "What's gotten your hair in knots this morning..."

Adagio paused herself from gazing through the window, and glared at Aria, "Don't think I didn't hear that?"

"Uh, I did say it out loud." Aria with a come-back.

Adagio rolled her eyes, and continued gazing through the window.

Aria detected the strong aroma from the coffee carafe as she poured the coffee into her mug. Aria didn't like her coffee too strong because it gives her the non-stop jitters that can last almost the whole day. On the contrary, Adagio couldn't stand weak caffeine.

Aria shook her head, and let out a faint smile, "Hmph... So you're at this again with this whole coffee thing... You gotta learn how to crank it down."

"If you don't like it, then make your own." Adagio snapped.

Aria mumbled, "Geez.. After a couple of days of recovery, she's now back to her old ways.. How reassuring."

"Scuse me?"

Aria chuckled, "Like I said. Back to your old ways... and I'm not being sarcastic either.. Not at all, if that's what you're thinking."

"... I guess I'll take that as a compliment.." Adagio took a sip of her coffee, "What do you want, Aria.. You've been filling the silence quite awkwardly. It's making me nauseous."

Aria poured generous amount of cream into her coffee to alter the strong bold taste. Aria's thoughts lingered whether to tell Adagio how she really feels, or rather just phase it out by changing the subject about how worse Sonata can be.

Adagio's the first to learn to barely accept reality. She can't stand to live normal. So when Aria tells her a story about her workplace, the nature of human ignorance and stupidity, only reminded her how their new life will pan out till the day they die. It drives her insane.

After Aria stirred her coffee, she walked back to her seat in the dining table, "Well... Don't get mad at me..." Aria sipped her coffee, "Sonata and I think you've gotten soft with Clair."

Adagio sighed without a reply, overseeing a person outside the window slipping and falling on black-ice. Aria continued, "I'm not saying it's a bad thing..." Adagio turned around to face Aria with an attentive look, urging her to continue, "I mean... Don't get me wrong, Adagio... I can feel myself changing too. Maybe it's a side effect due to not having our gems anymore.."

Adagio couldn't agree more. Being powerless, there's really nothing else they can do. Adagio may still have her magic, or whatever's left of it, but it's not enough to give them power that they need to get the entire world to do their bidding.

Adagio sat by the dining table across from Aria with an inscrutable look, "Have you been hungry lately?"

Aria didn't quite understand what she meant at first. She clarified, "You mean hunger for magic?"

"Yeah..."

Aria with a delayed response, "... No." She pursed her lips and raised both her eyebrows.

Adagio faintly chuckled and rubbed her aching head, "Ain't that a bucket o' sunshine." She then began drinking large gulps of her coffee.

"What about Sonata?"

Adagio placed her empty mug down, "What about her..."

"Well, it's just... even when we had our gems, she didn't seem to hunger for it at all like we did. It's like she never cared."

"Sonata will always be Sonata regardless of the circumstances, even when hell breaks loose, she'll be somewhere along the side playing around with the hell hounds."

Aria chuckled, "Why the hell hounds?"

"Because... She's Sonata."

Aria shrugged, and couldn't agree more with Adagio. There were times that they blamed Sonata for their loss at the battle of the bands because of her careless and bubbly personality. But when it comes down to it, it's really no ones fault. Magic of Friendship is just too strong.

"Adagio... I just need to know that you're okay with all of this.."

Adagio was unsure how to answer. If she say's no, it would just make Aria more worried than she already is. If she says yes, that would mean she's lying. Adagio just couldn't win, thus making her sick to her gut.

A door creak sound came up from behind them, Adagio and Aria turned their heads to see Sonata standing by her bedroom door, rubbing her eyes in wakefulness. She smiled and greeted in a low voice, "Good morning, girls." She walked towards the dining table, and sat down to join them. She yawned, "What's all of this commotion going on so early in the morning?"

Adagio and Aria exchanged glances, thinking of a clever way to hide the real subject of discussion. Aria initiated, "Nothing, we were just talking about you." Then awkwardly sipped her coffee.

"About me?"

"Yeah, about you causing havoc at where you work. Geez Sonata, we can't be there for you twenty-four seven. We have jobs too ya' know."

Sonata begged to differ, "No! It's not my fault, blame the mannequin!"

Aria with a puzzlement expression, "Huh?"

"Okay girls." Adagio merged in with a halt in between the two siren sisters, "Since we're all up, I'll be fixing us some breakfast. After that, I've got chores for you all to do."

Both protested:
"Awwww."
"I knew I should've said I had work today.."

She continued, "After we're all done, we're heading over to Clair's place for dinner later tonight." Adagio got up from her seat, and walked towards the kitchen.

Sonata was ecstatic to hear about tonight's dinner plan. Aria, on the other hand, remained passive. She was still kind of shook up about what happened that night at the Christmas showcase. So when Adagio made an impromptu plan for tonight's dinner, Aria cringed at the idea. Nevertheless, she knew she couldn't say no to Adagio, so she just had to suck it up and bear with it.

HUMANAVILLE
2:02PM; SAME DAY
SUGARCUBE CORNER

Sandal Wood sat by himself in the booth, waiting patiently for my arrival. I called earlier telling him that we needed to talk, and Sugarcube Corner is a perfect place to be, so I told him to meet up at one-thirty pm. I was half an hour late, and there was no excuse for my tardiness. The waitress had already approached him three times, offering him something small to hold our seats. But Sandal Wood declined. He had informed the waitress not to worry, and that I was arriving very soon.

*Entrance Bells Chimed*

I entered the bakery and panned around the dining area, seeing Sandal Wood sitting down inside a booth, waving his hand to me from a mid-distance. I took a deep breath, and walked towards him.

Sandal Wood stood up and took my hand to pull me in to give a quick peck on my lips. But I turned away before his lips touched mine. I said in a low voice, "No... Sandal Wood.. We need to talk... Lets sit down."

Sandal Wood raised a single eyebrow, "Ok?..."

We both sat down, opposite from each other. Sandal Wood was puzzled about my sudden strange behavior, and he's already sensing half of what might happen later throughout our discussion. But he's not one to jump to conclusion.

Sandal Wood questioned, "Is everything ok, Clair?"

If I only knew that breaking up with Sandal Wood was this difficult, I should've at least prepared what I needed to say before I came. Sandal Wood asked a simple question, and I couldn't answer it. The awkward silence filled between us, but Sandal Wood was able to notice my glum expression and that he was concerned. He tapped his fingers on the table to give me a little nudge, and asked again, "Clair... Are you okay?"

With my delayed response in a low voice, "I don't know.. Sandal Wood..."

"Clair... I'm no mind reader."

"Sandal Wood, with everything happening right now, with my gem and all..." I couldn't bear to look at Sandal Wood anymore, so I looked down with a sad expression on my face, "To keep you safe, I don't think we should be together anymore..."

Sandal Wood's eyes widened in shock. It remained open for the moment until I merged in again with words, "...I'm sorry Sandal Wood.."

Sandal Wood's emotion was triggered, and his rough, masculine behavior was slowly taking over the best of him. He stood up and narrowed his eyebrows at me, "To keep me safe?"

I slowly raised my head up, "Yeah..."

"Clair, I carried you back home when you we're lying unconsciously on the ground during that snow stormy night..." He raised a single eyebrow, and proved his point once again, "Keep me safe?..."

I sighed, "You'll never understand..."

"Understand what?... Look... I've seen magic like that before, and I'm fully aware what it can do to people."

I've never seen Sandal Wood become infuriated before, which hurts me. I can see it in his eyes that he's not letting the little things, such as my gem, be a hindrance. But what he doesn't understand is the consideration of the future consequences: Weighing immediate and distant outcomes.

"Clair, I like to think that we share something special..." Sandal Wood's emotion began to soften, and slowly sat down, "I don't think you understand how important it is for me to hear the sound of your voice everyday." He slowly took my hand, and cupped it with his own, "They say love hurts... But I'm ready to take that risk, if I'm going to be with you."

Sandal Wood's words took me by surprise, and brought me to tears. For thousands of years worth living, I've never experienced anything like this before. I know my fate hangs in the balance, but the choices are just not getting any easier. It's like the worse battle that I'll have to fight, between what I feel, and what I know.

Sandal Wood held my chin up, wiped the tears off my face, and looked deeply into my eyes, "... I Love You..."

After Sandal Wood said those wonderful words, my heart began to beat faster. I can literally feel the adrenaline rushing from my chest, sending goosebumps all over my skin. It was quite nice. My facial expression began to transform into a faint smile. I could care less what happens, but the fact that Sandal Wood loves me, I feel like I have what I only need in this moment in time.

HUMANAVILLE
3:04PM; SAME DAY
MY APARTMENT

It only took ten minutes max till Sandal Wood and I finally arrived at my apartment. As I blasted the front door open, he pushed me against the wall and kissed my neck. He stroked my cheek then his lips shifted onto mine. He raised his hands up to my hair and tangled his fingers in it, while his other hand pulled up to my face cheek, and cupped it. I raised up his shirt and slowly felt his hard body. I moved from his lips to his neck, while he thrust me onto his thighs. He placed his hands on my lower back, grazing one hand down the back of my jeans. I was in a total daze and all I cared about was how good it felt kissing Sandal Wood.

"I - Love - You." I panted through the hard kissing and touching. That did it for me. "Sandal Wood, lets continue this in my bedroom." Sandal Wood instantly carried me while his lips were in tact with mine. We walked towards my bedroom and laid on the bed. He was on top, and I was under him. He peeled off his T-shirt, and so did I. As I slowly ran my hand over his crotch, he started moving his lips onto my jawline, to my neck, down to my collar, and then my breasts. I giggled as he gently kissed my stomach, "Sandal Wood, that tickles." He unbuttoned my jeans and pulled them off. I sat up and unbuckled his belt with one hand, while using the other to run my fingers over his stomach. I moaned and looked at him with a squint smile. As his jeans were completely off, my eyes widened at the huge bulge on his boxer shorts. He looked at me with a naughty smile, then laid his body over me. He continued to kiss me once again while he reached down to his own front boxer hole to reveal his hard manhood. I momentarily paused from kissing him, and whispered in his ears, "Sandal Wood... Please be gentle."

He yanked off my bra and tossed it aside, then slid his hand into my panties, his fingers dipping between my legs. He felt my curls and fleshy folds wet with anticipation, and smiled to feel my readiness for him. I moved my pelvis upward, coaxing him wordlessly to stroke my needs as he recaptured my mouth with his.

I arched against him, tugging at his boxers, unable to reach far enough down to pull them any lower than halfway, then slid my fingers between the waistband and his buttocks, squeezing, pulling him towards me, pushing him to enter me.

Unable to control his need to have me, he slipped my silky panties off and tossed them, then yanked his boxers off and dropped them to the floor.

His painfully hard erection rubbed against my thigh, and he worked on my sensitive nub to bring me to climax. My breath hitched, my heart pounded wildly. I sucked in air, arching my body, exposing my neck, my throat, my blood calling to him, willing him to take me.

"Relax, Clair."

He pressed his manhood against my opening, entered slowly, stretching me. I moaned, I urged him deeper, wrapping my legs around him, encouraging him. Hoping beyond hope he could control the blood lust when he couldn't keep his sexual drive in check, he aimed deeper into the chasm, and gradually pounded me faster, I moaned, "Ah.. Sandal Wood, slow down.. You're kinda hurting me.." My hands clinging to his hair, my legs wrapped around him, my heels digging into his butt. He thrust and groaned, so close, so damned close. He felt the end coming, prayed it was only the beginning, and finally came to an end when he released his seed inside me.

We felt our hot steaming bodies rubbing against each other, our rapid breathing began to diminish, he then shift himself by my side of the bed. We cuddled throughout the rest of the remaining moment that I will cherish forever.

*Knock Knock*

The loud knocks were heard from my apartment door across the room, with the familiar voices behind it:

"Clair, we're here."
"Open up! I'm hungry! Oh and umm, we still have to finish that GTA game!"

Just as Sandal Wood and I were treasuring our moments together, I totally forgot that my sisters were coming for dinner tonight, "Shit!" I perked up, covered my body with a blanket, and advised Sandal Wood to quickly get dressed.

"Clair, calm down. I think your sisters already accepted me." As zipping his pants and buttoning it.

As I quickly slipped my panties and bra on, "If Adagio catches me naked with you, she'll kill me... And you!.."

"Why would she care?"

"Because, she's my oldest sister!..."

*LOUD MULTIPLE KNOCKS*

I couldn't think of a clever way to quickly think of a plan in such short notice. But I guess it will have to do, "Sandal Wood, hide under the bed." Almost fully clothed at this point.

Sandal Wood looked at me blankly, "Clair, you can't be serious."

I replied with sarcasm, "Oh, like you got a plan?"

*LOUD MULTIPLE KNOCKS*
Aria's voice was heard outside the apartment door, "Clair, open up!"

I shouted across the room, "In a minute! I'm just getting dressed!" I then lowered my eyebrows at Sandal Wood in a low voice, "You have got to hide now, we'll talk about this later, please..."

Sandal Wood sighed, "Fine..."