Chapters A boy sat on the edge of a bridge, his white hair swaying from the wind. He moved his purple hair away from his teal eyes as he looked down. It was a long way down and if he jumped, he would surely die. It was dark and isolated so if he did, no one would notice until it was too late. His breathing was shaky as he looked down thinking about the decision he was about to make. Was this the right choice? Was he really about to do this?
The boy closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He was about to push off until he felt a buzz from his jacket's pocket. Taking out his phone the boy realized that his Mom was calling. The boy stared at his phone and then back down at the ground below him. He quickly got off the edge and back to safety. Shaking his head the boy dusted off his grey jeans and started to make his way home. 'Maybe another day.'
The boy opened the door and locked it from behind, sighing to himself. He was about to do it... he wanted to do it, but he couldn't go through with it. Taking off his blue shoes and his jacket to show off his purple shirt with a snowflake on it, the boy started to make his way to his room.
"Arctic? Is that you honey?" The boy, Arctic, looked over and saw his Mom. She gave Arctic a small smile with a bowl in her hand. "I tried calling you earlier but you never answered, I guessed you were out with friends or at work."
Arctic rolled his eyes. 'Friends? Yeah right, what friends?' But at the same time Arctic couldn't tell his Mom the truth about what he was actually doing, or was about to do had she not called him. "Yeah, sorry Mom. I was just busy with something, that's all. No need to worry about me." Arctic smiled at his Mom and she smiled back at him.
"Okay, well I made you some dinner for when you came back. It should still be hot, it's your favorite!" Arctic looked down at the food and smiled, it was his Mom's famous stew. It was starting to get cold and his Mom's stew always helped him warm up. It was things like this that made Arctic not want to take the jump.
"Thanks, Mom, I'm going to go to my room." Arctic took the bowl and started to make his way to his room.
"Oh, Arctic dear." Arctic turned around. "Don't forget to pack your things, we leave tomorrow." And that was part of the reason why he did want to jump.
"Mom, do we have to leave? Why can't we stay? I'm in my final year of school, can't we just stay until Senior year is over?" Even though he asked, Arctic knew the answer already. This wasn't the first time he had asked the question, but he hoped, just once, that he could convince his Mom to stay. They had lived in the very house they were in his entire life, and he didn't want that to change.
Arctic's mom looked at him and sighed. "Arctic, you know that I want to stay here too but I can't pay the bills for this house by myself. You know your father was the one who paid for most of the bills but now without him..."
"Then why can't I help you? Let me help pay for some of the bills around the house, I have a job and if I have to I'll get another to help you out. C'mon, Mom let me do this." Arctic pleaded with his Mom. He wanted to help, he wanted to stay, but the chances of his Mom saying yes were low.
"I'm not going to let you help me Arctic. You need to put your focus and attention on school. It's your final year and I don't want you doing school and trying to help with paying the bills, you'll stress yourself out and I don't want you falling behind." Arctic sadly looked away from his Mom. She walked over to him and put her hand on his cheek making Arctic look at her. "I'm glad that you want to help me son, but you're already behind as it is. You're lucky you even passed your Junior year."
It was true that Arctic was lucky that he had just barely passed Junior year with the skin of his teeth. He had struggled greatly but not because of the work he had been given, school had always been easy for Arctic. What made things hard was the loss of his father. A car crash, coming back from home Arctic's dad was involved in a deadly car crash thanks to a drunk driver running a red light killing both himself and Arctic's dad.
"Okay... I'll start packing now." Walking to his room, Arctic's mom could only sadly watch her son head to his room and close his door, something he had done more of ever since the death of his father. It took a toll on both of them but more so Arctic. She had tried to talk to him and be there for Arctic but he only pushed her away and stayed locked up in his room so she decided to keep her distance and hoped that doing this would help Arctic with his emotions.
Sighing to herself, Arctic's mom looked around the house looking at all the moving boxes. There was still a lot of packing to get done and just based on looking around, there was a lot of work to be done and with not much time left, Arctic's mom got to work.
Taking a seat by his deck, Arctic placed the bowl of food on his desk and started to eat. The stew tasted just as good as always, putting a smile on his face. Arctic thought about everything while he ate. He understood why his Mom was doing what she was doing, she was right. Ever since the loss of his Dad, Arctic wasn't in the right head space. He had just barely passed with a 2.6 GPA which was just enough to get him past the Junior year and to his Senior. And as much as he wanted to stay and help his Mom pay the bills, he knew he would be giving himself too much to handle. With school, working two jobs, and still grieving the death of his father.... the chances were that he would most likely stress himself out, and this time he might actually take the jump.
The only thing that was stopping Arctic from not jumping in the first place was his Mom. As much as Arctic wanted to pain to end and to see his father in the afterlife he knew he would be leaving his Mom, and when she found out what he did if he did it... she would be devastated and broken beyond repair. Arctic was staying strong for her stake, and as much as it hurt him to have to move from the place he had lived his whole life, he knew it was the right thing for the family. Finishing his food, he looked around his room. He hadn't even started packing and had done everything he could to prevent it, but now, he had to.
Looking out his window Arctic looked up at the sky. It was darker than it was when he was about to jump and the stars were sparkling. Seeing the stars Arctic imagined one of them being his Dad looking down at him. "I wish you were still here with me and Mom, Dad. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about you. And now because you're gone we have to move away... away from the place where we made so many memories together." Thinking about the memories put a smile on Arctic's face. From spending holidays together, playing games, watching TV and movies, all of those memories were in this very house. But unfortunately, all of that would be nothing but be put in the past. Looking up at the stars once again Arctic sighed. "If only you were here with us Dad. I know at these hard times like this you would want to hit harder, but I don't know if I can."
Taking a glance at his room Arctic got up from his seat and started getting his things ready. 'These boxes aren't going to pack themselves... I better start packing, I don't want my Mom to worry any more than she already has to.' Looking at everything in his room Arctic groaned. 'This is going to take forever, guess I'll have to pull an all-nighter.' Picking up one of the many moving boxes in his room, Arctic started the journey of packing his things.
It was a long and hard night but after many hours Arctic finally finished packing his things. Although it indeed did take him the whole night to finish packing and he was exhausted. Thankfully, however, he would be able to get some sleep during the car drive.
Arctic was currently lying down on the floor looking up at the ceiling. The moving people had already taken the boxes and his furniture so he was left to sit on the floor. Now that Arctic was thinking about it, his Mom never did tell them where they were moving. Was it far away? What was the weather like over there? Where they were from it was also cold so Arctic normally always had to wear a scarf and a jacket to stay warm would it be the same at the new place?
"Arctic! It's time to get going." Sighing to himself, Arctic got up and looked at his room, or rather was his room, for one last time.
"It was nice knowing you room, hope to see you again one day. I'll never forget you and the memories we had with one another." With a shake to his step, Arctic walked out of the room and closed the door from behind and out of the house. Stepping outside, Arctic looked at his Mom who was making sure everything was good with the car before they took off. Arctic looked back at the house he grew up in, for what would be probably the last time. "I'll never forget you, goodbye."
Seeing her son walk over, Arctic's mom smiled. "Everything's all ready to go. We've got a five-hour drive ahead of us so I hope you're ready."
"Yeah, I guess." Arctic and his Mom got into the car and took their seats. "Oh, by the way, Mom. Where are moving to anyways?"
Arctic's mom started the engine and smiled. "Canterlot City, it's a wonderful place, I'm sure you'll love it."
As the two of you started to drive away you looked at the house get smaller and smaller. "Canterlot, hmm? Yeah, we'll see." Arctic's eyes started drifting off and before he knew it, he was asleep thinking about what Canterlot City would be like.
Arctic peered out of the car window, his eyes wide with anticipation as the cityscape of Canterlot City unfolded before him. Tall buildings and bustling streets replaced the familiar sights of his old town. This was a new beginning, a fresh start, and Arctic was ready for the adventure that awaited him.
Once they arrived at their new home, Arctic's mom, smiled warmly as she pulled up the driveway and stopped the car turning her attention over to Arctic who was looking at their new house. "Welcome to Canterlot City, sweetheart. I think you're going to love it here."
Arctic got out of the car and walked around the house. The house was very beautiful and looked fairly new and when Arctic got to his new room, he couldn't help but smile. His room was already perfectly made, and it was much bigger than his old room. "I think I am going to like it here."
"Arctic, dear?" Arctic turned around to see his Mom at his room's entrance. "I know we just got here and this is on short notice but you'll be starting school tomorrow at Canterlot High." Arctic merely nodded his head and went over to his bed while his Mom left his room to do her own thing.
"Great, I'll be starting school tomorrow. Can't even get a bit of a break." It wasn't that Arctic was upset, he was looking forward to starting school to occupy his mind from... that. Plus, after what seemed like a never-ending car drive Arctic was exhausted regardless of the four-hour nap he had in the car. Arctic wouldn't realize but the sleepiness overcame him and he fell asleep.
The next morning, Arctic found himself in front of Canterlot High School, a mix of excitement and nerves bubbling within him. His mom handed him a piece of paper and gave him a reassuring pat on the back as he stepped out of the car. "You'll do great, Arctic. Just be yourself." Arctic nodded his head and waved as his mom drove away most likely to her new job that she had gotten.
'Just be yourself, Arctic. You've got this, just make a good first impression on everyone and everything will be just fine.' Arctic looked down at the piece of paper his mom had given him. He was to make his way to the front office where he would meet up with the Principal and there she would give him directions around the school, show him his classes, and a good understanding of what the school was like.
As Arctic navigated the crowded halls, a friendly voice called out to him. "Hey there! You must be the new guy. I'm Sunset Shimmer." A girl with vibrant red hair and a welcoming smile stood before him.
Turning his attention to the girl, Arctic gave her a warm smile back. "Yeah, I'm Arctic Ace." Arctic put his hand out and the two of them shook hands. "My mom and I just moved here yesterday," Arctic replied, feeling grateful for the friendly face.
Sunset nodded her head. "Principal Celestia wanted me to show you around. She would've introduced herself to you personally, but she had to handle a situation with Pinkie and AJ." Arctic just nodded his head, not knowing who Pinkie or AJ was but he understood that Principal Celestia was just doing her job as Principal. 'So Principal Celestia is her name, I have to remember that.' It wasn't that Arctic had to meet the Principal anyways, now that Sunset was there and she seemed to know what she was doing."C'mon, I'll show you around the school and where your classes are."
Sunset quickly became his guide, showing him around the school and showing him where his classes were at. She was going to introduce him to her group of friends but the bell rang signaling the beginning of school. Sunset led Arctic to their first class, a class they both shared, something Arctic was glad about. The day continued on a positive note as Arctic entered his first-period class where the teacher introduced him to the class, and he exchanged friendly nods with his classmates. As he took his seat next to Sunset, he smiled to himself. 'I'm going to enjoy myself here.'
As the bell rang, signaling the end of Arctic's third period, Arctic packed his backpack and walked out of the room and to lunch which he was looking forward to. Thanks to his classes it had caused Arctic to become hungry, and Arctic was looking forward to eating some lunch to quench his hunger. "Arctic!" Turning around to see who called his name, Arctic spotted Sunset in the crowd heading toward him. "How's classes been so far?"
Arctic smiled as he continued to walk with Sunset by his side. "Classes have been good, nothing too out of hand for me. Everyone's so nice and friendly here, very different from my old school. Everyone has made me feel welcome here."
Sunset returned his smile with a smile of her own. "I'm glad you're enjoying your time here so far, and I'm glad you're here, Arctic. We'll make sure you feel at home in Canterlot City. So what do say about joining my friend and me for lunch today? Don't want you to be eating lunch alone on your first day, now do we?"
Arctic pretended to think about it to give Sunset suspense, but he already knew his answer. Who wanted to eat lunch by themselves on their first day at a new school? Arctic sure didn't. "Sure, I'll enjoy that a lot."
Sunset smiled once again. "Okay then it's settled, let me show you where my friends and I normally eat lunch every day." Arctic nodded his head as Sunset led him to where she and her friends ate lunch.
They gathered in the courtyard during lunch, sharing stories and laughter. It wasn't weird or awkward, the girls made Arctic feel right at home, almost as if they had known him their whole lives. It didn't take long before Arctic found himself immersed in the lively chatter and warm camaraderie of Sunset's friends. Sunset was kind enough to introduce Arctic to all of her friends, and he had to admit, they were all unique in their special way.
There was Twilight, the bookish one, or as Rainbow called, a bookworm. Rarity, with her impeccable fashion sense; Rainbow Dash, the spirited athlete, and team captain of all the sports team; Pinkie Pie, the perpetually cheerful one and the ultimate party planner; and Fluttershy, the gentle animal lover. There was another one, AJ also known as Applejack, a farm girl who could be trusted greatly, but she had to go home earlier because of a certain someone.
"Wait, so Pinkie. Let me get this straight. You thought it would be a good idea to mix candy and apple sauce?" Rainbow asked Pinkie as she bit into her apple. Twilight nodded her head agreeing with Rainbow as she pushed her glasses up.
"Well, yeah? I thought by mixing them I could make apple candy sauce." Pinkie pulled the sauce out of her hair which surprised Arctic and ate it. "It tasted good so I wanted Applejack to try some." Pinkie's hair then seemingly lost its color and drooped. "I didn't think it would cause Applejack to get sick, I feel terrible."
Yep. Pinkie thought it was a good idea to mix candy and apple sauce and got Applejack sick. Arctic who was eating his lunch looked over at Pinkie. 'I'm sure she's a good person.' Arctic looked down at the cupcake that Pinkie had given him as a welcome to the school and then back at the saddened Pinkie. 'But it seems her hyperness can be a bit too much at times.'
Fluttershy and Rarity went over and hugged Pinkie. "It's okay, Pinkie. We know you would never purposely cause any harm to Applejack, and I'm sure she understands that too." It seems Fluttershy's words got to Pinkie because the color came back to Pinkie's hair and she smiled as she hugged Fluttershy and Pinkie back.
As they enjoyed lunch together, Arctic couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging. Sunset and her friends welcomed him with open arms, making the daunting task of starting a new school surprisingly pleasant. The seven of them continued to enjoy their lunch talking and enjoying their time together. When the bell rang, Sunset led Arctic to their next class the two of them talking to one another. Even though it was his first day, Arctic felt a genuine connection with his new friends.
The final period, which just so happened to be Math, was coming to an end. Arctic sighed to himself, because he had moved in during the middle of the year, he was a bit behind in his studies. The good news was that he shared Twilight and Rainbow in that class, something he could get past. Well, maybe Twilight who seemed very organized and taking very top-of-the-line notes while Rainbow was... pretending to be reading her math book but was secretly taking a nap unbeknownst to the teacher who was focused on the lesson.
Just then the bell rang, signaling the end of the school day, shocking Rainbow and making her fall out of her chair. The class laughed while the teacher glared at Rainbow who nervously chuckled while rubbing the back of her head. Twilight rolled her eyes but still helped Rainbow up as Arctic laughed to himself and packed his things to go for the day. As he walked out of class Arctic cheered on the inside, glad that not only math but school was done for the day.
Upon entering the outside finally out of the school, Sunset who was talking to her friends noticed Arctic walking out of the school and called out to him. "Hey, Arctic!" Arctic who was about to make his way home, turned around and saw Sunset and her friends and made his way over to them. "I hope you had a good first day, Arctic. Hope to see you again tomorrow."
Arctic smiled. "I did, thanks. I think I'm going to have a ton of fun here. I'll see you guys tomorrow, have a good rest of your days." Arctic waved goodbye to Sunset and her friends and started to make his way back home. His mom was working late so he had to walk home, something he was used to doing since... the incident. Not that he minded though, Arctic enjoyed as he used this time to embrace everything that had happened today. From beginning a new school in a new city where he knew no one, to meeting a bunch of cool friends and new people. It was safe to say that Arctic's first day went as well as it could've gone.
With newfound confidence, Arctic headed home, grateful for the friendships he had formed on his first day. From meeting Sunset and her friends, Arctic couldn't wait for what tomorrow would bring for him. Little did he know, his journey in Canterlot City was just beginning, and exciting adventures awaited him in this vibrant new chapter of his life.
As Arctic navigated the bustling hallways of Canterlot High, he couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging that had been absent in his life for a long time His newfound friends, including Sunset Shimmer and the group, had welcomed him with open arms, and helped him with everyday problems that he needed help with.
After a week of shared laughter, supportive conversations, and navigating the intricacies of high school life, Arctic found himself saying his goodbyes to his friends walking down the stairs, and waving to his friends as he made his departure back home for the day. The sun dipped below the horizon as he stepped out into the cool evening air, his breath forming misty clouds.
As Arctic began his walk home, he readjusted his scarf. "It sure is getting cold nowadays. I better get home, the last thing I want is to get sick." Arctic rubbed the back of his neck as he continued his way home. "I know it's only been a week since I got here but do the teachers really need to give this much homework? I swear, sometimes they forget that we're humans too and have lives just like them."
When Arctic turned the corner, a serendipitous encounter awaited him. As he was walking past an alleyway, something caught the corner of his eye. Looking back Arctic looked in shock, three girls that looked about his age were sitting in the cold alleyway going dumpster diving. Pulling out his phone he looked at a photo that Sunset had once shown him. Looking at the photo and then at the pair of girls down the alleyway, Arctic was sure they were the same. Not to be seen, Arctic quickly hid behind a wall while peeking his head back down the alleyway every so often.
He had stumbled upon unfamiliar territory, he had run into the Dazzlings. Adagio Dazzle, the leader of the Dazzlings with her bundle of yellow hair. Aria Blaze, the fierce one of the group with her glare that could melt ice. Sonata Dusk, the goof of the Dazzlings and known for being a typical airhead and supposedly very into tacos? Who knows, the way Pinkie described things certainly was a mystery to Arctic despite him being at Canterlot for a week now but like Sunset had told him before, it's just Pinkie being Pinkie Pie.
Arctic watched as the Dazzlings' radiant presence seemed to illuminate the otherwise dimly lit alleyway. 'Okay, what do I do? Obviously, the girls told me stories about the Dazzlings but I never thought I would actually meet them. I thought they weren't even in Canterlot anymore. Have they come back to cause trouble?' Looking at the situation, Arctic noticed the purple one, Aria he was pretty sure, was limping in pain. He also noticed the yellow one, Adagio most likely, was holding her stomach in pain. Whether that was from pain or hunger, he wasn't sure. Then there was the blue one, Sonata had found some leftover pizza and handed it to her sisters who gratefully ate the food while Sonata just watched. Arctic smiled, even though Sonata was in the same situation, she cared for her sisters and wanted to help them. 'Even though they're the enemy, I should still help them out. It's clear that they need help!'
Walking out from his hiding stop and into the alleyway, Arctic started to slowly make his way to the Dazzling to not scare them with a friendly smile on his face to show he meant no harm. "Hey! You're the Dazzlings, aren't you?"
The Dazzlings jumped and turned to the new person in the alleyway with them blocking their entrance to leave. Adagio, Aria, and Sonata exchanged glances, a hint of weariness in their eyes. That was until Adagio, the charismatic leader of the trio, spoke up, "We are. Who are you and how do you know about us?" Adagio looked at Arctic suspiciously, to her, he was an outsider, and that made him dangerous. but he raised his hands to show he meant no harm.
"Y-You're not going to hurt us, are you?" Sonata asked, clinging to Aria who continued to stay quiet but her glare spoke louder.
Arctic put his hands up to show he meant no harm. "I go to Canterlot High, no offense but you guys are kinda like legends there." Arctic watched as the girls grimaced at hearing that name. Adagio looked down and tightened her fist, most likely probably thinking about the horrid past they received from that school. Arctic could sense their desperation from them, they needed help. Instead of turning away from them in a time of need, he decided to extend an invitation, "Why don't you come with me? At least until you can get on your feet. I mean no harm, and I don't want nothing in return, I just want to help."
The three sirens looked at each other in surprise, unsure of the stranger's sincerity. "No thanks." Arctic looked at her in surprise. "We don't need a stranger to help us, we're doing perfectly fine without anyone's help. We have each other." Adagio then pointed at Arctic who stared at her and took a step back when she started to walk toward him. "We don't need you. We don't need anyone! We are the Dazzlings and we can do anything without the help of anyone!" Adagio's yell caused nearby birds to fly away.
Arctic just stared at Adagio in surprise but then he sighed. "Okay, I'm sorry. I just thought you guys would need some help. I won't bother you three anymore." Arctic turned and started to leave until he heard a scream.
Quickly turning around he and Adagio turned back to see Aria who had collapsed onto the floor with Sonata kneeling beside her with tears in her eyes. Adagio quickly rushed over and bent down to Aria and Sonata. "What happened?" Adagio checked and felt a pulse in Aria which made her sigh. "She's still alive but her pulse is weak. It's probably because of these conditions we've been in lately."
"Um, excuse me?" Adagio and Sonata turned their head to see Arctic who was rubbing the back of his head nervously. "I know you said you didn't need my help, but your friend looks like she needs some help. If you don't need my help then that's fine but your friend looks like she needs the help, do it for her."
Adagio gritted her teeth seeing the conditions of Aria. They couldn't just leave her like this, if nothing was done and fast then Aria could... she could...
"Dagi..." Adagio looked up to see Sonata who was crying. "Please, we need his help. Aria's in pain... I don't like seeing her in pain like this. This guy seems nice, and I think he can help us. Can we at least stay with him until Aria gets better?"
Adagio looked at Sonata, and then at Aria. She knew that Sonata was right, they needed help and fast. She turned to Arctic as much as she hated to say it they needed him. There was a warmth and genuine demeanor that somewhat reassured her. With a shared glance with Sonata, the two girls nodded their heads in agreement.
"All right then. Please help us, our sister needs it." Arctic looked at Adagio and nodded her head with a smile. Adagio got up and helped Sonata pick up Aria who was out for the count. "Show us the way."
It took a little bit longer to get to his house due to Arctic having to wait for Adagio and Sonata who had to carry Aria the whole way there. He would've helped them but Adagio didn't want him touching his sister which was fair. They didn't trust him, and if Arctic was being honest with himself, he too didn't fully trust them. He still wasn't even sure why he was letting some villains enter his house like this, but from what Sunset said they were no longer a threat after Sunset and her friends stopped them.
Yes, the girls had told Arctic the truth about their magical powers and how Sunset was actually a pony who came from another world named Equestria where everyone was ponies. It had taken a while for Arctic to believe them but over time he came to realize it wasn't just some prank they were pulling on him, it was the truth. But Arctic didn't see the girls any differently, if anything it made him appreciate them more for everything that they had done for the school and to keep the people they love safe. It also showed just how cool those girls were, and it made Arctic proud to call them his friends. The girls had told him everything even back to when Sunset was a tyrant at the school who used to bully everyone. At the time Sunset was afraid Arctic would think differently of her, but he understood. Sunset wasn't the same person she once was, and Arctic was hoping it was the same case for the Dazzlings.
Entering Arctic's humble abode, the atmosphere shifted. Arctic felt a responsibility, determined to help the Dazzlings find their footing. Just like how Sunset's friends helped her after her bullying faze. Just like how the girls were there for Sunset, and for him when he first started, Arctic wanted to be there for the Dazzlings and help them in any way he could. Turning on the lights he noticed that his Mom wasn't there. Something that didn't surprise him given how much she had to work. Arctic hated seeing his Mom work so hard but after what happened to his Dad... Arctic still wanted to help his Mom but she kept declining his offers, she was stubborn like that.
"Make yourselves at home. You two can take a bath and use some of my spare clothes to sleep in. I'll take care of your sister while the two of you take care of yourselves." The girls looked at Arctic and he smiled. "Don't worry, your friend will be okay. All she needs is some food and some rest. I'll order a pizza while you guys get washed up."
"For realsies?" Arctic nodded his head and smiled as he showed the two girls where the bathroom was. "Thanks for all your help, it means a lot." Sonata gave Arctic a warm smile which he couldn't help but blush too.
"You're welcome." As Arctic watched as Adagio and Sonata walked into the bathroom to wash up he went over to Aria who was lying on the couch. He looked over her injury, it didn't look like she had broken anything. "Well that's good, it's most likely a sprain, it shouldn't take too long to heal. She probably just needs some food and some rest and she'll be as good as new." Arctic went over to his phone and called in the pizza, a typical pepperoni, something that he hoped the girls were alright with. He then went to his room to retrieve some clothes for Adagio and Sonata to sleep in, hopefully they would be fine with the clothes he had.
As Arctic waited for the pizza to arrive he sat at the living room table to do some homework he had to deal with. As he listened to the sound of the shower running and looking deep at his math equation trying to figure out the answer, he was distracted by the fact that he now had the big responsibility of taking care of three girls. He still didn't know as much as he wished he did about the Dazzlings, but the good thing was that he had some friends who did. Tomorrow while the girls rested at his house he would go to school and get some answers from the gang. The only thing Arctic hoped was that he could help the Dazzlings to the best of his abilities, and be a good host while they settled in until they got back onto their feet.
Arctic couldn't shake off the nervous excitement as he stepped into his room for the night. The idea that the Dazzlings, once his friend's fierce enemies, were now under his roof was surreal. He found himself staring at the ceiling wondering about their intentions, their motives for seeking refuge with him. Were they truly seeking redemption, or was there something else at play that he wasn't aware of at the moment?
As he settled in, Arctic realized the enormity of the situation. It wasn't just about providing them with a place to stay; it was about rebuilding trust, healing old wounds, and forging a new path forward. He made a mental note to talk to the Dazzlings, to understand their perspective and reassure them that they were safe here. Arctic felt his eyelids getting heavy as the darkness engulfed his vision.
The next morning, Arctic woke up to the sound of voices in the kitchen. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes, he made his way downstairs to find Adagio, Aria, and Sonata already up and about, chatting animatedly as they brewed coffee and prepared breakfast.
"Morning, Arctic!" Sonata chirped, her cheerful demeanor infectious.
"Good morning." Arctic replied, offering a small smile. "Did you sleep okay?"
Adagio nodded, a hint of gratitude in her eyes. "Yes, thank you. Your hospitality is appreciated." Although she was acting nice Arctic could tell she was keeping her guard up.
Aria remained silent, her expression guarded, but Arctic could sense a glimmer of curiosity beneath her stoic facade. He decided to broach the topic gently. "I know things have been... complicated for you guys in the past. But I want you to know that I'm here to help. We can talk about anything you need."
The Dazzlings exchanged glances, a mixture of surprise and uncertainty flickering across their features. Adagio spoke first, her tone cautious yet hopeful. "We didn't expect you to be so... understanding. After everything we've done."
Arctic shrugged, trying to convey empathy. "We all make mistakes. What matters is how we choose to move forward. And I believe everyone deserves a chance to change."
The conversation shifted to more mundane topics as they enjoyed breakfast together. Arctic couldn't help but notice the worn-out clothes the Dazzlings were wearing, a stark reminder of their current situation. He made a mental note to take them shopping later, to get them clothes and other essentials they needed.
After breakfast, Arctic excused himself to make a phone call and arrange for the day ahead. He called his friends, the Rainbooms, asking for them to meet him up somewhere soon as he had some big news to tell them. With a plan in place for the day, Arctic felt a sense of determination settle within him. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but he was willing to put in the effort to help the Dazzlings find their footing again and the first step was getting help from his friends. As he headed out to meet up with his friends he couldn't help but feel hopeful for the future, for a chance at redemption and reconciliation for the Dazzlings.
Arctic's heart raced with a mix of nervousness and apprehension as he approached the cozy café where his friends, the Rainbooms, usually hung out after school. He had something important to share with them, something that had taken him by surprise and left him feeling both bewildered and responsible.
Pushing open the door, Arctic was greeted by the familiar sight of his friends gathered around a table, chatting and laughing. Rainbow Dash waved enthusiastically as he walked over, her vibrant energy infectious as always.
"Hey, Arctic! You look like you've got something big on your mind," Rainbow Dash said, eyeing him with curiosity.
"Yeah, I do," Arctic replied, taking a seat and glancing around at his friends. "It's about the Dazzlings."
The mention of their musical enemies from their past immediately caught the Rainbooms' attention, their expressions shifting to concern. Sunset Shimmer leaned in closer, her eyes narrowed slightly. "What about them? Are they back to cause trouble again?"
Arctic shook his head, holding up his hands in a calming gesture. "No, no, nothing like that. Actually, I ran into them yesterday in the middle of an alleyway, and we started talking and I saw how bad their situation looked, but then Adagio started saying they didn't need anyone because "they're the Dazzlings" so I was about to leave, but then Aria collapsed to the ground! And I just had to help them so now they're... staying at my place for a while, at least until things look better for them."
His friends exchanged gasps and surprised glances, clearly taken aback by the unexpected turn of events. Rarity was the first to voice their collective concern. "Arctic darling, are you sure that's wise? After everything they've done?"
Arctic sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I know it sounds crazy, but they're not here to cause trouble. They're hurt, physically and emotionally. They need a place to heal and figure things out."
Fluttershy's gentle voice cut in, her concern evident. "But Arctic, what if they try to manipulate you like they did with us and everyone else? We don't want you to get hurt."
Arctic appreciated his friends' worries, knowing they came from a place of love and protection and because they had actually dealt with the Dazzlings in the past. "I understand your concerns, really. But I want to believe they can change, that they deserve a second chance. And besides, I couldn't just leave them out there in their condition."
Sunset Shimmer nodded slowly, her expression softening. "We trust your judgment, Arctic. Just be careful, okay? And let us know if you need anything."
With a grateful smile, Arctic thanked his friends for their support. It was true he was going to need all the help he would need to take care of the Dazzlings until they were able to take care of themselves. Arctic hung out with his friends for a bit longer eating a bite to eat with them before deciding to head back home to check up on the Dazzlings.
As he made his way back home, thoughts swirled in his mind. The Dazzlings staying with him meant he needed to make some arrangements to accommodate his new roommates. They would need some clothes, toiletries, and other necessities to make their stay as comfortable as possible. Arctic made a mental list of things to do, determined to make their time with him as smooth as possible.
As he unlocked the door to his house, Arctic couldn't help but wonder how this unexpected turn of events would unfold. He hoped for the best but knew that navigating this situation would require patience, understanding, and perhaps a touch of magic from his friends.
Entering his house, Arctic walked into the living room where Adagio, Aria, and Sonata were already settling in. They looked tired but relieved to be in a safe place. Arctic smiled at them, feeling a sense of responsibility and determination.
"Hey, how are you feeling?" he asked, kneeling down beside them.
Adagio looked up, a faint smile gracing her lips. "Better, thank you. Just tired."
Arctic nodded. "I'm glad you're here. I'll make sure you have everything you need."
That night Arctic cooked up some dinner for all of them and as the four ate dinner together Arctic smiled to himself seeing the girls happily eat and talk to themselves. As the girls washed up, Arctic couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and hope. Maybe, just maybe, this unexpected turn of events would lead to something positive for everyone involved. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Arctic sat on the porch, a mug of hot cocoa in hand. Adagio joined him, leaning against the railing and gazing out at the colorful sky.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?" she murmured.
Arctic nodded, taking in the tranquil scene. "Yeah, it is. And it's moments like these that make me believe in second chances, in the power of change."
Adagio smiled softly. "Thank you for believing in us, Arctic. We're trying to be better, for ourselves and for those who care about us. We always wanted to change, but we didn't have anyone to help us. We only had ourselves to rely on. When Sunset and her friends defeated us we just ran off. Had we stayed maybe we could've gotten the help we wanted, but we-I was scared. Being the leader of the group, I tried doing what was best for us, even if most of the time it wasn't."
Arctic listened to what Adagio was saying. "I can understand that. Being sent to another world where you know nothing and nobody besides yourselves would be scary to anyone if put in that situation. You tried your best to help yourself and the others, that's the best that you could've done given the circumstances you were put in. But now you have that chance. No more running away, you're with me now. And I'm going to do all that I can to help you three out, no matter what. You three aren't alone anymore."
Looking at Arctic in surprise, Adagio's eyes slowly filled with tears. "Yeah." It took everything in her to swallow back her tears and not look weak in front of Arctic. Arctic smiled to himself, he knew Adagio was holding back her emotions, but he kept it to himself. To him, that was her showing her wanting to change for the better and he was going to help her, as well as Aria and Sonata.
Arctic and Adagio sat in companionable silence, with Aria and Sonata joining them later on. The four of them watched the stars emerge one by one lighting up the night sky. In that moment, Arctic felt a sense of peace and acceptance, knowing that despite the challenges ahead, they were all in this together, embracing change and the possibilities it brought.
The Dazzlings and Arctic ate breakfast that morning. Today, the four of them planned on going shopping at the mall to get the girls some things they needed. Ever since the Dazzlings started staying at Arctic's, they had been using his clothes and essentials like shampoo and toothpaste. It was fine for the first few days but the girls, especially Adagio, had been asking to get some of their own things so they didn't have to borrow Arctic's. As the four of them finished eating their breakfast, they got ready and started making their way to the mall.
The Dazzlings and Arctic walked their way toward the sprawling Canterlot Mall. The idea of a shopping spree was already thrilling, but having Arctic—ever the gentleman—offer to treat them made the day even more special. Adagio, Aria, and Sonata exchanged glances, each already plotting out the items they’d look for. It had been a long time since the girls were able to get clothes for themselves and they were looking forward to getting a lot of them. As well as any other essentials they needed, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, makeup, etc.
Once they arrived, Arctic led them into the mall and toward some trendy clothing stores the mall offered. The girls were amused at how huge the mall was, they had never gone into Canterlot Mall before now and they were impressed. Not as impressed as Arctic was when the girls quickly disappeared into different sections. Adagio made a beeline for the racks filled with sophisticated dresses and blouses, her eye for elegance in full force. Aria gravitated towards the grungier section, rifling through graphic tees, jackets, and distressed jeans with an approving nod. Meanwhile, Sonata practically skipped over to a vibrant display of pastel sweaters and playful skirts, humming cheerfully as she sifted through the selections.
Arctic watched them with a warm smile, happy to indulge in their interests. He didn't need to do any shopping so here he was waiting for the Dazzlings to do their shopping while he lounged around on his phone killing time. After a few minutes, Adagio came over with an armful of clothes that almost made Arctic's eyes shoot out of their sockets. “Arctic, what do you think of this dress?” she asked, holding up a fitted, deep blue dress with intricate lace detailing.
“It suits you perfectly,” Arctic replied, giving her a sincere nod of approval. “Elegant and confident—definitely you.” A bead of sweat rolled down his cheek. 'I know I said I would pay for their things but I hope they show me mercy.' Arctic glanced at the clothes in Adagio's hands. 'I can already feel my wallet crying.'
Adagio’s eyes sparkled with pride. “Thank you. I knew you’d appreciate good taste.”
Meanwhile, Sonata bounced over with a pastel pink hoodie and a denim skirt, holding them up with a grin. “What about these? They’re cute, right?”
Arctic chuckled. “Very cute, Sonata. You’ll look great in them.”
With their selections in hand, the Dazzlings continued exploring the store and then moved on to others, each discovering more pieces that suited their unique styles. Aria even managed to find a studded leather jacket that instantly became her new favorite item. As promised, Arctic covered the costs at each checkout, waving off the girls’ attempts to protest. However, he almost took up their offer when he saw how big the bill was. 'By the time this is all over, I'm going to be in debt.' When Arctic paid for the bill and then turned to the girls who were talking and smiling at one another, it made Arctic smile to himself. 'If it's for them then it's okay.' However, looking down at his wallet which was looking dangerously low made him sigh. 'The things that I do for these girls.'
“It’s my treat, besides, you all deserve it.” He would assure them with a smile each time. And each time it became harder and harder to hold it together with how low his money was getting. 'I hope this ends soon.'
After a couple of hours and several full shopping bags later, they took a break to wander over to a beauty and self-care store. Adagio picked up some luxury skincare products, while Sonata and Aria stocked up on some essentials like makeup and haircare items. Arctic was glad to see them treating themselves, encouraging their choices along the way.
Finally, with their arms full of bags and smiles on their faces, the group headed to the food court. They found a table near the window, where Arctic pulled out chairs for each of the girls before sitting down himself, silently crying to himself, the money in his wallet now gone forever. The Dazzlings eagerly scanned the menus, debating between different options.
“This place has the best tacos!” Sonata exclaimed, her eyes wide. “We have to get some!”
Adagio smirked. “Of course you’d want tacos, Sonata.”
Aria shrugged. “I’m with her on this one. Let’s just order a bunch of stuff and share.”
Soon, they had a spread of pizza, tacos, fries, and milkshakes laid out in front of them. The group chatted and laughed as they ate, recounting the day’s highlights and trying on different accents just for the fun of it. Arctic found himself genuinely enjoying every moment, glad to be surrounded by their infectious energy and friendship.
As the day drew to a close and they headed home, the Dazzlings thanked Arctic profusely, their voices filled with gratitude and joy. He gave them each a warm smile, assuring them it was truly his pleasure. After they finished eating, the four of them made their way to the exit and headed back home.
That night, Arctic was in his room winding down for the night when his phone buzzed. Seeing it was his mom, he picked up quickly.
“Hi, Mom!” he greeted, smiling. Though they didn’t speak daily, he was close with her, and they often shared updates about their lives. She had been so busy at the hospital ever since the two of them had moved to Canterlot that she often stayed the night sometimes or stayed over at a coworker's.
“Hello, sweetheart,” she replied warmly. “Just wanted to let you know I’ll be home tomorrow. It’s been a while since we caught up properly.”
“That’s great, Mom!” Arctic replied. “Looking forward to it.”
“Oh, and don’t forget about the offer I mentioned,” she added gently, her voice curious but understanding. “Take your time, of course. Just thought I’d bring it up.”
Arctic stayed quiet for a minute, thinking about the offer. “I know, I’m still thinking about it,” he replied, feeling a bit of weight in his words. He knew his mom was just looking out for him, but the decision she’d brought up wasn’t an easy one. It lingered in his mind as something he needed more time to sort out.
“Alright, honey. Just wanted to remind you. Have a good night, and see you soon!” she said warmly before hanging up.
As he put down the phone, the reality set in—this would be the first time his mom would meet the Dazzlings. A mix of excitement and nervousness washed over him. The girls were incredibly important to him, and he wanted his mom to see them as he did: friends who brought light into his days. She didn't need to know about their past, but she was going to have to know that they lived with him. The only question was: how would he tell her that?
After a moment of thought, Arctic headed to the living room where the Dazzlings were watching a late-night movie. He approached them, and they looked up, sensing he had something to say.
“So, I just got off the phone with my mom,” he started, taking a deep breath. “She’s coming back tomorrow. And… this will be the first time she’ll be meeting you.”
The Dazzlings exchanged curious glances, a bit of apprehension crossing their faces.
Adagio spoke up first, giving him a confident nod. “We’ll be on our best behavior. She’s important to you, so it's only fair we treat her with respect.”
Aria leaned back with a smirk. “We can handle it. Meeting moms is easy.”
Sonata, on the other hand, looked slightly nervous but gave him a determined thumbs-up. “Yeah! We’ll make a great impression. We promise.” She then looked down, hugging Adagio. "But what if we don't and she kicks us out? She doesn't even know we've been living here."
Arctic smiled at their reassurances, feeling a bit more at ease. “Thanks, girls. I know you’ll be amazing.” He then turned to Sonata. "And Sonata I'm sure there's nothing to worry about. We'll just be honest with her and tell her that you guys are friends from school and I found out you were homeless, simple." Sonata smiled and nodded her head while Arctic turned his head so she didn't see his face. 'I hope.'
Once the conversation wound down, the Dazzlings headed to their rooms to prepare for bed. Arctic lingered in the living room, feeling an urge to talk to someone else, someone who might have insight into the situation or who might ease his nerves. He picked up his phone again and dialed a number.
As it rang, he felt a familiar rush of reassurance. The person he was calling always had a way of grounding him, offering advice that felt clear and supportive.
Finally, the call connected, and Arctic spoke in a low, cautious tone. “Hey, it’s me. I need some advice… My mom’s coming back tomorrow, and she’ll be meeting the Dazzlings for the first time. I think it’ll be fine, but... you know how much I want it to go well.”
The person on the other end replied, their voice soft and understanding. Though their words couldn’t be heard, Arctic’s expression softened, and he nodded, grateful for their support. They continued talking for a while, with Arctic growing more reassured and ready to face the upcoming meeting.
After he hung up, he headed to his room, feeling a renewed sense of calm. Tomorrow was going to be an important day, and though there were unknowns, he knew he wasn’t alone. With the Dazzlings by his side and the support of his loved ones, he felt ready for whatever came next.
That morning, Arctic cleaned up the house for his mom's return. Today was the day when his mom would meet the Dazzlings, and he wanted things to go well. Perhaps he should've told her about them on the phone so his mom was at least aware that the girls were there in the first place. Maybe it was the nerves that were making him make dumb decisions, he wasn't sure. But what he was sure about was that he wanted his mom to like the girls.
Unlike him, she didn't know about the girls, also known as the Dazzlings, and their past mistakes. A once group that tried to take over Canterlot and have people adore them and make people want to fight with their magical singing voices. She didn't need to know about that, mostly because one it was in the past, and two, if she did know the girls would be kicked out faster than the Flash.
Arctic had already thought of a foolproof lie that was sure to work... at least he hoped. It wasn't that he liked the thought of lying to his mom but he had already gone over the pros and cons of telling the truth and there were far more cons than pros. The plan was like this, the three of them were sisters that he went to school with and shared some classes with. One day, he found out that they were homeless while walking back home and because he felt bad he decided to let them stay at his place. Hopefully, his mom would feel bad for the girls, and if he and the girls asked nicely enough, she would let the girls stay and live with them, at least until they could move out.
Just then the sound of keys jingling was heard. Arctic looked at the girls who got in place as he made sure to calm himself. The door opened and in came Arctic's mom who upon entering the door saw Arctic and three girls behind him. "It's so good to see you again, Arctic. I'm sorry for being gone for so long, work has been intense, but that's the job of a nurse." Arctic's mom hugged him.
Arctic smiled and hugged her back. "You don't have to be sorry, I understand. What you do is hard work, being a doctor is stressful."
Arctic’s mother, a warm yet sharp-eyed woman with a presence that commanded respect, had arrived a little earlier than expected. As Arctic welcomed her in, the Dazzlings stood close by, exchanging glances. They were prepared for this, but the weight of telling her their story made Sonata fidget in place. Arctic’s mom took one look at them, taking in their postures, the way they stood just a bit too closely to each other as though seeking support. "And who are these lovely girls?"
“These are my friends from school, Mom,” Arctic began, gesturing toward the girls. “Adagio, Aria, and Sonata.” The Dazzlings offered tentative smiles, albeit Aria's was a bit forced, trying to appear as polite and composed as possible.
“It’s very nice to meet you, girls,” his mother replied warmly, though her eyes lingered on them with a hint of concern. She could tell something wasn’t quite right.
Arctic took a deep breath, ready to share a piece of their truth. “Mom, they’ve been…going through some tough times. They’re, um, homeless with nowhere else to go. I found them in an alleyway when I was heading back home and I couldn't just leave them after finding that out, so they’re here with me for now.”
Arctic’s mom blinked, her expression shifting to one of shock, then softening. “Oh… I see.” She took a moment to process the information, then turned to the Dazzlings. “I’m so sorry to hear that. You’re very fortunate to have such a caring friend in Arctic.” Her tone was gentle and sincere. "Tell you what, since I'm gone a lot with my job my room and the guest bedroom are free to take. You can stay here as long as you'd like, that is until you three can get on your feet."
The girls nodded, relieved by her understanding. Adagio stepped forward and, carefully choosing her words, added, “Thank you for letting us stay at your house, it means a lot. And we’re really grateful for your son, Arctic. He’s been… a huge help to us.” Adagio and Arctic made eye contact, a small smile on both of their faces. "He didn't have to do what he did for us, but he did it anyways."
Arctic's mom smiled at Adagio's words. “Of course he did,” his mother said, reaching over to squeeze Arctic’s shoulder. “He’s always been one to help those in need.”
With the heavy topic now out in the open, the tension in the room lessened. The Dazzlings managed to smile, feeling a sense of security they hadn’t felt in a long time.
After his mom had gone to the bathroom to take a bath, Arctic gathered the Dazzlings for a conversation. His voice was serious but kind. “I’ve been thinking for a while and I know you girls may not be up to it… but I want you to try and make things right with the Rainbooms.”
At the mention of the Rainbooms, the Dazzlings’ expressions soured immediately.
“Are you serious?” Aria snapped, crossing her arms. “After everything we’ve been through with them?”
Adagio’s eyes narrowed. “Why would we even consider it?”
Arctic held up his hands. “Hear me out. If you want to have a fresh start, going back to Canterlot High would be a huge step in the right direction. Besides, I did tell Mom you were friends from school. She finds out you three don't go to Canterlot then what will you do?" The Dazzlings looked at one another, not seemingly having an answer. "I know the Rainbooms are a sore subject, but if you talk to them, maybe they’ll understand. Sunset came from Equestria just like you three and had a whole villain redemption arc, she can help you out more than anyone. And if they’re on your side, it’ll make things easier for you.”
Sonata looked down, uncertainty in her eyes. “I don’t know, Arctic… they didn’t exactly welcome us with open arms last time. But I guess then again we didn't exactly deserve it after what we did.”
Arctic sighed. “I know it’s hard, but trust me. They might surprise you. And if not… well, at least you’ll have tried. Just meet them at Sugarcube Corner and talk things out. I won’t be there with you, but it’s something you all need to do on your own.”
“Wait, you’re not coming?” Adagio asked, frowning. “Where are you going?”
Arctic gave her a reassuring look. “I’ll explain another time. It’s… something I need to handle on my own.”
With a few reluctant nods, the Dazzlings agreed to go to Sugarcube Corner. They left the house a bit later, heading to the café with mixed feelings. As the girls left, Arctic pulled out a piece of paper with an address on it. He sighed to himself as he put on his shoes and made his way to the location. Where was he going instead of going to Sugarcube Corner with the Dazzlings? Well, Arctic had made up his mind and decided to take up his mom's offer.
Meanwhile, Arctic was sitting in the lobby of a cozy office, waiting for his appointment. Today was the first time he was going to speak to a therapist, and as he thought about it, a memory came back to him—a conversation with his mom on his first day of school at Canterlot.
Flashback
That morning, he’d been gathering his things when his mom approached him, her gaze soft but firm.
“Arctic,” she began, “I know this has been a hard time for you. And with your dad… gone, I don’t want you to keep all of those feelings inside. I know you're going through a lot, I can see it all over your face. I think talking to someone could help.”
Arctic had glanced away, his face tense. “I’m not sure if I’m ready for that. Would talking to a therapist even help?”
“Just think about it, okay? I don’t want you to carry this alone. When you’re ready, we’ll make it happen.” Arctic's mom gave him a small smile as she looked down toward her son's arms still scared from the horrifying sight she witnessed weeks ago that made her bring up the offer to her son.
End of Flashback
Remembering that morning, Arctic felt a pang of gratitude. Taking a deep breath, he walked into the office when he heard his name called.
"Hello Arctic, nice to meet you. Please, take a seat." Arctic nodded and sat down. He still wasn’t entirely sure he was ready for this, but he knew he couldn’t keep everything bottled up forever.
Across town at Sugarcube Corner, the Dazzlings had arrived and found the Rainbooms already there, waiting in tense silence. The air was thick with unresolved tension, as both groups took their seats, casting wary glances at each other.
Sunset cleared her throat, trying to break the ice. “Thanks for coming,” she said, her tone neutral.
Adagio nodded slowly, crossing her arms as she spoke. “We didn’t come here to make nice. Arctic… he thinks we should try to sort things out.”
“Same here,” Sunset replied. “I don’t think we’ll ever see eye to eye, but… maybe we can at least understand each other a bit better.”
As Sunset spoke, Rainbow Dash crossed her arms and leaned back, her gaze on Aria. The two exchanged hard stares, neither one willing to break first.
Sonata, sensing the awkwardness, spoke up, her tone uncertain. “I… I know we did some bad things before, and I’m sorry. We just… we didn’t know another way.”
Fluttershy nodded, her voice was soft but sincere. “It takes a lot of courage to admit that.”
Adagio took a deep breath, glancing at Sunset with something close to respect. “Look, I don’t expect you to forgive us. We just… we want a chance to move forward. That’s all.”
Sunset nodded, offering a small smile. “I think that’s a good place to start.”
Back at the therapist’s office, Arctic was slowly opening up. The therapist listened patiently, allowing him the space to share at his own pace.
“It’s just… I feel like I’m supposed to be strong,” Arctic admitted, his gaze downcast. “Especially now, for my friends and my mom. But sometimes, I don’t know if I can. I can't just forget about my dad, you know? But I also know I can't have it affecting me because, at the same time, it affects my loved ones around me.” Arctic looked down and thought back to when he almost jumped off the bridge but stopped. He then put a hand to his arm, grimacing at an unwanted thought.
Flashback
Finals were coming up at school and with how bad his grades were he needed to do good. He was still depressed about his father's death just a few weeks ago and it felt as though things kept piling up. Arctic was in a bad spot and his mindset was anything but good. He had taken a knife from the kitchen a while ago and had been cutting himself anytime he felt stressed or depressed, which was every day.
That day he had forgotten to lock his door and when he started to cut himself the door suddenly opened, giving him no time to hide the knife or the cuts. "Arctic, sweetie, it's dinner- OH MY!" Arctic was like a deer in highlights as he stared at his mom with the knife still in hand, and blood trickling down his arm. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" The look on his mom's face would haunt his dreams for a long time.
End of Flashback
"I hurt my mom a lot when she found that out. I only did it because I thought it would help, but I was mistaken. All I did was cause more pain and worry. I just felt like not bothering my mom with my issues, after all, she was devasted after Dad's death as well, if not more than me. So I tried being strong for her, but I failed." Arctic looked down doing his best not to break down.
The therapist nodded, her voice gentle. “It’s okay to feel that way. You don’t have to be strong all the time." The therapist put her arm on Arctic's shoulder, making him look up. "You don’t have to carry this pain alone anymore.”
Her words resonated with him, and for the first time in a long time, Arctic felt a flicker of relief. As they continued talking, he realized that there was more to healing than just hiding the pain.
Back at Sugarcube Corner, the conversation between the Dazzlings and the Rainbooms had calmed, with Sunset and Adagio slowly finding common ground.
Adagio extended her hand to Sunset. “Maybe we’ll never be friends, but… I think we can try to let things go.”
Sunset shook her hand with a small smile. “Agreed. Thank you, Adagio.”
Meanwhile, Aria and Rainbow exchanged grudging nods, agreeing to a truce, if nothing else.
As Arctic wrapped up his session, he shook the therapist’s hand with a newfound sense of hope. Walking out, he felt a lightness he hadn’t felt in a long time, knowing he was no longer alone on this journey.
In their own way, he and the Dazzlings were finally starting to heal.
Author's Note
FInally back, and boy does it feel good. This is only the beginning, more chapters are to come real soon.
After his therapy session, Arctic felt a new sense of clarity. It was strange and even a little uncomfortable, having opened up about his dad and the weight he'd been carrying. But somehow, that hour of talking had left him lighter. His Mom was right, it did feel nice talking to someone about how he felt. He had gotten a message from Sunset earlier that the Rainbooms had left while the Dazzlings stayed behind to wait for him. As he made his way to Sugarcube Corner to meet the Dazzlings, he took a deep breath, preparing for whatever the next chapter of his life would bring.
Looking through the window to see the inside of Sugarcube Corner, Arctic saw that the Dazzlings were waiting, each looking a bit tense from their encounter with the Rainbooms. Adagio sat with her arms crossed, her usual confidence somewhat dampened; Aria looked irritated, while Sonata fidgeted nervously, glancing around. Judging by their body language he wasn't sure if the meetup with the Rainbooms had gone well. Arctic decided to walk in with a smile on his face, hoping to make the Dazzlings feel a bit better. Even if things didn't go well, at least he could say they tried.
When Arctic walked in with a smile on his face, the girls perked up, visibly relieved to see him. Sonata smiled brightly, waving him over.
“Hey, Arctic,” she greeted, her voice a bit chipper. “How was… whatever you had to do?”
“Not bad,” he replied, managing a small smile. “How did things go with the Rainbooms?”
Adagio sighed, rubbing her temples. “It was… tolerable, I suppose. I still don’t like them, and I don’t think they like us either, but… maybe there’s a chance we won’t try to tear each other’s heads off this time.”
Sonata nodded in agreement. “Yeah, we even… kinda promised to try being… friendly-ish?”
Aria scoffed but gave a slight nod. “Yeah, whatever. It’s a start.”
Arctic chuckled softly. “That’s more than I hoped for. Look, I know it’s hard, but at least you’re taking the first steps. Proud of you for that.” Arctic nodded to himself. 'Good, at least it's a start. One step toward the right direction, that's good for now.'
As they left the Sugarcube Corner, Arctic led them back to his house for the night. The Dazzlings were a little quieter, each seeming lost in thought after their conversation with the Rainbooms. They were also nervous, Arctic could tell by their faces. They were probably nervous about this new life, about being part of a family again, and especially about going back to Canterlot High. Sonata looked like she was about to cry from the nerves, while Aria tried to look calm but Arctic could tell she wasn't looking forward to going back to Canterlot. Arctic looked over at Adagio who looked to be thinking, as the leader of the group she was most likely trying to figure out a plan once they went back to Canterlot High. But Arctic knew that they felt a little more hopeful now, with him by their side he would help them in any way he could.
When they arrived home, the smell of cooking wafted through the air, warm and inviting. Arctic’s mom was in the kitchen, finishing up a delicious-looking spread. As they walked in, she turned around, beaming at them.
“Welcome back, everyone! I thought we’d have a little celebration meal,” she said, setting down a platter of lasagna on the dining table, alongside a salad, freshly baked bread, and a fruit pie. “Consider this a ‘welcome home’ dinner!”
The Dazzlings exchanged surprised looks, their expressions softening. It had been a long time since anyone had prepared a home-cooked meal just for them. Sonata’s eyes widened as she took in the sight of the food, a bright smile appearing on her face.
“Wow, thank you, Mrs. Ace! This looks amazing,” Sonata said, eagerly taking a seat.
Adagio and Aria joined her, still a bit reserved but grateful. Arctic sat down beside them, giving his mom an appreciative nod. “Thanks, Mom. This is… really nice.”
As they ate, laughter and conversation filled the room. The Dazzlings slowly opened up, sharing stories from their past, though keeping things vague about their time at Canterlot High and being sirens from another world. Arctic’s mom listened attentively, happy to see her son surrounded by friends. Even Aria seemed to relax, the hard edges of her personality softening under the warmth of the meal and company.
“This… this is really good,” Aria admitted, glancing away as she spoke. She wasn’t used to this kind of comfort or kindness, but a small smile tugged at her lips.
“Thank you,” Arctic’s mom replied, smiling back. “I’m glad you like it. You girls are welcome here anytime. This is your home now too.”
The words hit them all deeply, the idea of a home, a real home, stirring something in each of the Dazzlings. They were no longer alone, fending for themselves. They had someone who cared, and the knowledge was overwhelming but comforting.
After dinner, the Dazzlings excused themselves to head to their room, feeling the weight of the day’s events settling on them. They had school the next day—a return to Canterlot High—and the thought alone made them feel a magnitude of different emotions. But as they headed upstairs, Arctic stayed behind with his mom.
“So,” she asked softly, turning to him, “how was the therapy session?”
Arctic leaned back, shrugging slightly. “It was okay. Weird, I guess. I didn’t think it’d be that hard to talk about… things.”
His mom gave him a gentle look, reaching out to squeeze his hand. “It’s never easy, but I’m proud of you for going. It’ll help, I promise.”
Unknown to them, Adagio had paused just outside the door, overhearing the conversation. Neither she nor her sisters knew anything about Arctic's past as he kept it to himself but hearing that he was going to therapy made her worried. Hearing this now added another layer to her understanding of him. She quietly slipped away before she could be noticed, heading back to her room.
Later that night, Arctic was sitting in his room, trying to wind down from the day. He was flipping through a book when a soft knock on his door startled him.
“Come in,” he called, surprised to see Adagio enter. She looked hesitant, which was unusual for her.
“Hey,” she said quietly, shutting the door behind her. “Can we talk?”
Arctic nodded, gesturing for her to sit. “Of course. What’s up?”
Adagio hesitated, glancing down before meeting his gaze. “I overheard you and your mom talking… about well, the therapy. That's where you went today, didn't you? I don't mean to pry, but you've helped my sisters and me a lot, so I just thought I'd repay the favor.”
Arctic looked away, feeling a bit vulnerable but knowing she meant well. “Yeah… it’s something I’ve been dealing with for a while. My dad passed away a few months ago in a car crash, right before the end of Junior year. It’s just been so hard to move on, I feel lost.”
Adagio softened, empathy flickering in her gaze. “I get it… I mean, I can’t imagine how it feels, but I know what it’s like to feel… lost.”
Arctic listened as she continued, her voice dropping to a near whisper. “After the Battle of the Bands, everything fell apart for us. We lost our powers, our purpose… no one wanted us around. We were basically homeless, wandering from place to place. But then we met you.”
Arctic smiled softly. “You’ve always got a place with me.”
A small, appreciative smile appeared on Adagio’s face. “Thanks. We… well, we’re not exactly used to having people care about us, but… we want you to know that we’re here for you too. If you ever need anything.”
Her words warmed Arctic’s heart. It was strange seeing Adagio, the once-intimidating leader, showing this side of herself. But it also meant so much more to him knowing that she and her sisters were trying to change, trying to find a new path. “Thank you, Adagio. That… that really means a lot.”
They exchanged a smile, the silence between them comfortable and understanding. Eventually, Adagio rose to her feet. “Good night, Arctic. And… thanks again, for everything.”
“Good night, Adagio.” Adagio smiled as she left, closing the door softly behind her.
Back in their shared room, Adagio found Aria and Sonata already preparing for bed. They looked up as she entered, sensing that something was on her mind.
“What’s up?” Aria asked, raising an eyebrow.
Adagio hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “I just… I was talking to Arctic. He’s… he’s been through a lot. And he’s still willing to help us. We really lucked out with him.”
Sonata smiled, her eyes softening. “Yeah, he’s really nice… and cute.”
Both Adagio and Aria glanced at her in surprise before chuckling.
“Of course you’d notice that,” Aria muttered, smirking. “But yeah… he’s a good guy.”
As they settled into their beds, their thoughts turned to tomorrow and the inevitable return to Canterlot High. The prospect was daunting, but having Arctic by their side made it seem a little more bearable.
“Think we’ll survive?” Sonata asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.
Adagio sighed, but her tone was hopeful. “Maybe. It’s time we make a fresh start… for real this time.”
They drifted off to sleep, feeling a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, this could be the beginning of something better.
The morning sunlight crept through Arctic’s bedroom window, casting a warm glow over the room as he finished getting ready for the day. Today would be different from most days at Canterlot High. Not only was it the Dazzlings’ first day back since the Battle of the Bands, but it was also a chance for them to prove they’d changed. Arctic hoped things would go smoothly, but he knew it wouldn’t be easy for the three girls who were once seen as villains.
Arctic remembered how Sunset told him about her past and how hard it was when she first tried making it up to everyone. It took a long time and people held grudges for everything she had done. She admitted she deserved some of it, with how she had treated everyone before that, they were getting back at her. It wasn't until the Battle of the Bands that she helped save the school from the hands of the Dazzlings.
When Arctic made his way downstairs, the Dazzlings were already waiting for him in the living room, each wearing a mix of nervousness and defiance on their faces. Adagio looked composed but tense, Aria seemed annoyed and defensive, and Sonata wore a smile that only partially masked her unease.
“You all ready for this?” Arctic asked, giving them an encouraging nod.
“As ready as we’ll ever be,” Adagio replied, trying to sound confident. “Let’s get this over with.”
The car ride to Canterlot High was quiet, the silence thick with unspoken worries. The Dazzlings hadn’t set foot in Canterlot High since they’d nearly torn the school apart with their hypnotic songs, and they knew many people still held grudges against them. They were determined to prove they’d changed, but they had no idea if anyone would believe them.
Once they arrived at the school, Arctic guided the girls through the bustling halls, his presence reassuring as they approached Principal Celestia’s office. When they entered, Principal Celestia looked up from her desk, her calm gaze landing on each of the Dazzlings before settling on Arctic. Vice Principal Luna stood nearby, her expression equally composed but slightly more guarded. The tension inside the office was so thick that the air felt different, it would take an idiot to feel it.
“Good morning, girls,” Celestia greeted them, a neutral expression on her face. “And welcome back to Canterlot High.”
“Thank you, Principal Celestia,” Adagio replied, her voice steady but respectful. “We know we don’t deserve it, but… we’re here to ask for another chance. We’ve changed, and we just want to move on from our past.”
Celestia exchanged a look with Luna, who gave a small nod. “I believe people can change,” Celestia said, folding her hands in front of her. “But given the harm you caused last time, I need to be certain. Therefore, I’ll be assigning some students to keep an eye on you, to ensure there won’t be any… incidents.”
The Dazzlings tensed, but they nodded in understanding. It was a fair condition, and they knew they had no right to argue.
“I’ve chosen a group of students who’ve agreed to help you readjust,” Celestia continued. “The Rainbooms, of course, and Arctic here, will be your guides. They’ll help you settle in and keep an eye on things. I’m sure you understand.”
Adagio nodded, trying to maintain her composure, while Aria clenched her fists, visibly irritated but holding back any comment. Sonata glanced at Arctic with a hopeful look, grateful for his support.
“Yes, we understand,” Adagio said, keeping her voice steady. “Thank you, Principal Celestia. We’ll prove that we’ve changed.”
Celestia offered a small smile, her expression softening. “Good. I hope you’ll make the most of this second chance.”
With that, Celestia handed each of them their class schedules and dismissed them, reminding them to reach out if they needed any help. The group left the office, and Arctic led them through the hallways, showing them the layout of the school and where their classes would be. Even though they had been there before they hadn't remembered the layout of the school, mostly because when they were there they were more focused on other things.
As they walked through the crowded corridors, whispers and harsh stares followed them, the students clearly remembering the trouble the Dazzlings had caused in the past. Some even muttered insults or glared openly, making it nearly impossible for Aria to keep her temper in check. It made things uncomfortable and it made Sunset remember how she was in the same spot as the Dazzlings once were a while back.
“Look who’s back. Guess they didn’t learn the first time,” one student sneered as they passed.
“Didn’t think they’d have the nerve to show their faces here again after what they tried doing,” another one muttered.
Aria’s fists clenched, her jaw tight as she shot a glare back at the students. “Say that again, I dare you,” she muttered under her breath, her frustration bubbling beneath the surface.
Adagio placed a hand on her shoulder, giving her a warning look. “Not now, Aria. We can’t make things worse for ourselves.”
Sonata tried to ignore the glares, forcing a nervous smile as she walked a bit closer to Arctic, finding some comfort in his presence.
“Just keep your heads up,” Arctic advised, glancing back at them. “It’ll take time for everyone to see that you’ve changed.”
The girls nodded, trying to focus on his words instead of the hostility around them.
Eventually, the bell rang, and they had to split up to go to their respective classes. Arctic gave them each an encouraging smile before heading off to his own class, promising to meet up at lunch. The Dazzlings exchanged uncertain glances before heading off in different directions, bracing themselves for the inevitable challenges they’d face alone.
Lunchtime finally arrived, and Arctic found himself scanning the cafeteria, searching for a familiar face. He spotted Sunset near the entrance, and they quickly found a table, deciding to save seats for the Dazzlings and the Rainbooms. As they sat down, Sunset gave him a curious look.
“How do you think they’re holding up?” she asked, a note of concern in her voice.
Arctic shrugged, his expression thoughtful. “It’s hard to say. They’ve been getting a lot of flak from the other students, and it’s not easy for them to just ignore it. I’m worried, honestly. I just hope they don’t do anything they’ll regret.” Arctic was sure that Sonata wouldn't do anything, she didn't have it in her to pull something off. Adagio was a possibility but cared about her appearance and wouldn't want to get her hands dirty. Aria on the other hand, well... there was a good chance she would but he hoped she could control her feelings.
Sunset nodded, glancing around the cafeteria. “I can’t imagine what it’s like for them. But hopefully, they’ll hang in there. I know they’ve got you looking out for them.”
Arctic smiled, feeling reassured. He was about to say something when the cafeteria doors swung open, and Adagio walked in, her expression tight with worry. Beside her was Rarity, who looked equally concerned. 'Well, that's not a good sign.'
“Arctic, Sunset!” Adagio called out, hurrying over to their table. “Something’s happened. It’s… it’s Aria and Sonata.”
Arctic’s heart skipped a beat, his worry intensifying. “What happened? Are they okay?”
“They’re fine, I think, but… there was some kind of commotion. I think they might’ve gotten into a confrontation with some other students.” Adagio explained, her tone urgent. "When I saw Aria, I was going to look for myself, but she made me come to you guys first." Adagio glared at Rarity who huffed.
Without a second thought, Arctic and Sunset stood up, following Adagio and Rarity as they led the way through the bustling cafeteria. Arctic’s mind raced with worry, wondering what kind of trouble Aria and Sonata had encountered. It was only their first day back, and already, things seemed to be spiraling out of control.
As they hurried down the hallway, Arctic thought back on the morning, how the girls had tried to ignore the glares and insults thrown their way. He knew Aria’s temper made her especially vulnerable to provocation, but he hadn’t expected things to escalate this quickly. He could only hope the commotion wasn't as bad as it sounded. 'Please, Aria, don't do anything you'll regret.'
The hum of noise in the hallway grew louder as Arctic and Sunset hurried to where Aria and Sonata were caught in a tense confrontation. Arctic’s pulse quickened, his worry for the girls’ first day back intensifying with each step.
When they arrived, a small crowd had formed, whispering and exchanging glances, some with judgmental smirks. Arctic pushed his way through, spotting Aria and Sonata standing in the center of the gathering, Sonata looking visibly shaken.
Aria was clenching her fists, her jaw set, and her glare directed at a tall boy who stood sneering at them. Sonata, meanwhile, looked as though she were on the verge of tears, glancing between her sister and the crowd with a mix of fear and determination.
“What’s going on here?” Arctic asked, his voice strong enough to silence the murmuring.
The tall boy scoffed, crossing his arms. “Just letting these ‘sirens’ know we haven’t forgotten what they did. They think they can just come back here like nothing happened?”
Arctic stepped forward, putting himself between the boy and the Dazzlings. “They’re here because they’re trying to make things right. Put the past in the past. If you can’t respect that, then keep your distance. If I find out you do something like this again you'll have to go through me.”
The boy narrowed his eyes but took a step back, muttering under his breath as he walked away. Gradually, the crowd dispersed, leaving only Sunset, Arctic, and the three Dazzlings. Sonata bent down and helped up Sonata who was shaking in fear.
Aria scoffed, crossing her arms. “I didn’t need you to step in to handle my business. I could’ve handled it myself.”
Arctic held back a sigh, glancing at her with a calm expression. “I know you can stand up for yourself, but we’re trying to avoid drawing any more attention to you guys.”
Sonata, still a bit shaken, managed a small, grateful smile at Arctic. “Thanks… for standing up for us.”
Adagio sighed and put a hand on Aria’s shoulder, speaking gently but firmly. “We’re not here to cause more trouble, Aria. We’re here to show that we’ve changed. Remember that.”
Aria huffed, rolling her eyes but giving a slight nod. “Doesn't mean if someone is being rude I'll tolerate it." Adagio glared at Aria who sighed. "Fine. But if anyone else tries anything, I’m not holding back.”
Sunset took a step forward, her expression understanding. “It’s hard, I know. I’ve been there. People will come around eventually, but it takes time. You’re strong enough to handle this. The good thing is you three have each other and Arctic.” Sunset put a hand on his shoulder and he smiled.
With a heavy sigh, Aria softened a bit, her eyes briefly meeting Sunset’s. She knew Sunset was right. The group continued on to lunch together, settling in with the Rainbooms, who greeted the Dazzlings cautiously but kindly. The girls exchanged a few words with their new classmates, mostly focusing on getting through the rest of the day.
The Dazzlings spent the rest of the afternoon in silence, enduring the whispers and occasional sneers from other students but managing to keep their tempers in check. Arctic stayed by their side whenever he could, lending them the quiet support they needed.
By the end of the day, the four of them were exhausted. When they finally made it back to Arctic’s place, the tension was almost palpable. Aria looked more agitated than ever, pacing around the living room while Sonata sat on the couch, trying to keep her spirits up despite the rough day. Adagio stood with her arms crossed, her expression troubled.
“It’s just one day, right? We’ll get used to it,” Sonata said, forcing a smile as she tried to comfort her sisters. “I’m sure tomorrow will be better.”
Aria snapped, her tone sharper than she’d intended. “Oh, please, Sonata. Stop pretending everything’s going to be okay! You saw how they treated us! We’re nothing but villains to them. Why do you have to be so naïve?”
Sonata flinched, her smile fading as she looked down. “I… I was just trying to help…”
Adagio glared at Aria, stepping forward. “Hey, there’s no need to take it out on her. She’s just trying to make us feel better, unlike you, acting like it’s the end of the world after one bad day.”
“Oh, so now it’s my fault?” Aria shot back, her voice rising. “Maybe if you actually stood up for us instead of playing nice, things wouldn’t be so hard!”
“Are you kidding me?” Adagio’s voice was laced with frustration as she met Aria’s glare. “You’re the one who keeps making things worse with your attitude! If you’d just control yourself, maybe we wouldn’t get so much attention.”
The tension between them grew, insults flying back and forth as they vented their frustrations. Sonata’s eyes filled with tears, the harsh words too much for her to bear.
“Stop it, both of you!” Arctic stepped in, his voice firm but calm. He positioned himself between them, glancing at each girl in turn. “This isn’t helping anyone. You’re all upset, but taking it out on each other won’t fix anything.”
Aria scowled, looking away as she crossed her arms. Adagio’s expression softened, and she let out a long breath, her shoulders slumping. Sonata sniffled, wiping her eyes as she tried to hold back her tears.
After a tense silence, Adagio was the first to speak. “I… I’m sorry,” she said quietly, looking at Aria. “You’re right. I could’ve done more. I just… I didn’t want to make things worse.”
Aria’s expression softened, her anger fading as she looked back at her sister. “Yeah… I guess I overreacted. I just hate feeling like everyone’s against us. It’s… hard.”
Sonata looked between her sisters, a small, tentative smile forming. “I know it’s hard for all of us. But we’re here together, right? We have each other.”
The three of them shared a moment of understanding, each realizing that they were in this together, despite their frustrations. They wrapped each other in a quiet hug, silently forgiving each other and drawing strength from their shared bond.
Arctic watched them, a faint smile on his face. He knew the day had been rough, but he also knew that this moment was a step forward. Giving them a nod, he turned and headed to his room, leaving them to have their moment alone.
In his room, Arctic let out a sigh, leaning back on his bed as he reflected on the day’s events. He’d known it would be tough for the girls to face their past and the resentment of the other students, but seeing the toll it took on them weighed heavily on his mind. The Dazzlings were determined to make amends, yet their every effort was met with hostility.
As he lay there, an idea began to form. Perhaps there was a way he could help ease their transition, to show the school that the Dazzlings were genuinely trying to change. But he couldn’t do it alone.
He pulled out his phone, his mind racing as he scrolled through his contacts. There was one person who might be able to help, someone who understood what it was like to be given a second chance. Sunset had been in the same position once, and she’d managed to turn things around. Maybe, with her help, he could come up with a plan to support the Dazzlings anonymously, allowing them to rebuild their reputations without attracting more attention.
He dialed Sunset’s number, listening to the phone ring as he rehearsed what he wanted to say. When she answered, he smiled, grateful for her familiar voice on the other end.
“Hey, Sunset. I have an idea, but I need your help. Think you’re up for it?”
Dinner at Arctic’s place was quiet at first, each of the four lost in thought. The day at Canterlot High had been rough, to say the least. It hadn't been a good return back to Canterlot High for the Dazzlings. Arctic knew that there would probably be kids who still harbored grudges toward the Dazzlings for what they did. But he didn't think someone would actually do what they tried doing to Aria and Sonata. As they sat around the table, the Dazzlings picked at their food in silence. Even Sonata who was normally always optimist, tried to brighten the mood by talking about how delicious the food was, but even she looked tired from the day’s events. She was probably still scared after what happened at school, and then again when Adagio and Aria got into that argument with one another.
Arctic glanced at each of the girls in turn, feeling the weight of their struggles and the determination they still held beneath the exhaustion. He didn't know why he was so nervous to bring this up to them but if there was a way to help the Dazzlings then... Finally, Arctic set down his fork and cleared his throat, catching their attention.
“There’s something I want to talk to you all about,” he began, his voice steady but a bit hesitant. “I know today wasn’t easy, and I can’t imagine how hard it must be to face everything you’re going through right now.” He paused, looking at each of them seriously. “But I’ve been thinking… about something that might help you feel better. I know how much you miss your singing voices, how much they meant to you, how they were a part of you, and I want to help you get them back.”
The Dazzlings looked up, their expressions a mix of surprise and disbelief.
“You… you’re serious?” Adagio asked, her voice soft, almost vulnerable.
Arctic nodded. “I am. I know your voices were a huge part of who you were, and losing them was like losing a part of yourselves. I thought maybe if you got them back, it could help you feel more like yourselves again.”
Sonata’s face lit up with a bright smile, and before Arctic could react, she pounced on him, wrapping him in an enthusiastic hug. “Oh my gosh, Arctic! You’re amazing! Thank you so much!” she squealed, hugging him tighter.
Arctic’s cheeks turned a shade of red as he returned the hug awkwardly, aware of Adagio and Aria smirking at the scene. He pulled back a bit, clearing his throat to hide his blush.
“You really want to help us get our voices back?” Aria asked, her usual tough demeanor softened with curiosity. "How would you even be able to do that? We don't have magic anymore and I doubt Sunset's group can just give our magic back to us."
Arctic nodded, his gaze sincere. “Yes, I do. It’s not something you can just forget about. I mean, if I lost something that made me feel like myself… I’d want someone to help me get it back too.” He then turned to Aria. "And don't worry Aria, I have just the plan to get your singing voices back."
Adagio, ever the one to notice everything, leaned forward with a playful smile. “That’s very generous of you, Arctic. But why are you doing this for us?”
Arctic hesitated, his mind flashing back to his conversation with Sunset earlier that day.
Earlier That Day
After the first day’s ordeal, Arctic had confided in Sunset over the phone, explaining his plan to help the Dazzlings. Sunset had listened thoughtfully, her expression curious and understanding.
“Arctic,” she’d said, “you’re putting a lot of effort into helping them. And don’t get me wrong, that’s amazing. But… is there another reason why you’re doing this?”
Arctic had hesitated, scratching the back of his neck. “What do you mean?”
Sunset raised an eyebrow, a teasing glint in her eye. “Oh, come on, Arctic. I’m not blind. You’re close to them, especially to…” She let her voice trail off with a knowing smile. “Do you have a crush on one of them?”
Arctic had felt his cheeks heat up, and he knew he couldn’t hide it. “Well… yeah, I guess I do,” he admitted, glancing away. “But it’s not just that. I care about all of them. They’re all struggling, and I want to help them in any way I can. They’re my friends, and they deserve to feel whole again, even if it’s in a way that doesn’t involve magic or causing harm. I want to see them smile again, without any regrets. You and I both know how much their singing voices meant to them, having that back will make them feel better, feel more like themselves.”
Sunset had smiled at his confession, her eyes warm. “That’s sweet, Arctic. And I know they’ll appreciate it. Just… make sure you’re ready to be there for them through it all. This isn’t just about getting their voices back—it’s about helping them heal.”
Despite her not seeing it, he’d nodded, his determination only growing after their conversation. Sunset was right, this was more than just them getting their singing voices back, this was to also help them heal. Heal from all the pain they had gone through, heal from losing something that meant so much to them, and heal from their past mistakes.
Back to the Present
Arctic cleared his throat, repeating the sentiment he’d shared with Sunset. “I… I do have feelings for one of you,” he admitted, looking away momentarily, his cheeks slightly pink. Adagio and Aria smirked at one another, knowing who it was while Sonata tilted her head wondering who Arctic liked. “But it’s not just that. I care about all of you. You’re my friends, and I want to see you happy. I don’t want you to feel like you’re missing a part of yourselves anymore. And if I can help you get your voices back, even without those pendants… then I’m going to do everything I can to make it happen.”
The girls exchanged looks, each of them visibly touched by his words. Aria was the first to speak, her usual sarcastic tone softened with gratitude. “That’s… actually pretty cool of you, Arctic. I didn’t think anyone would care that much.”
Adagio gave him a warm smile. “Thank you. Really, it means a lot to us. We’ve never had anyone go out of their way to do something like this for us before. We… we appreciate it.”
Sonata, still beaming, reached out to take his hand. “You’re amazing, Arctic! Thank you so much for doing this for us!”
Arctic felt his blush return but squeezed her hand, giving her a reassuring smile. “Of course. And don’t worry. I’m here for you all the way.”
“So… how are we going to do this?” Adagio asked, her eyes shining with excitement.
“Well, it’s going to take some work. Getting your voices back won’t happen overnight, especially without magic. But there’s a music therapist I know who specializes in vocal recovery. We’ll be working on strengthening your voices and finding new ways for you to use them. It may take a while but I doubt you care how long it takes, as long as you can sing again.”
The girls shared a glance, nodding in agreement. They were ready to put in the effort, no matter how challenging it might be.
“Thank you again, Arctic,” Adagio said, her voice filled with sincerity. “We’re willing to do whatever it takes.”
Arctic smiled, feeling a surge of determination. “Then let’s do this. We’ll start in a few days. I’ll make sure everything’s arranged, and we’ll take it one step at a time.”
For the rest of the night, the mood around the table was lighter, each of the Dazzlings filled with renewed hope. As they talked about their plans and shared memories of their singing days, it was clear they were ready to move forward, embracing this chance to reclaim their voices in a new way—one that would reflect who they’d become.
When dinner was over, Arctic watched them with a quiet smile, happy to see the spark of excitement in their eyes. He knew this was just the beginning, and the road ahead would have its challenges, but he was ready to support them every step of the way. As the Dazzlings hugged him goodnight, he felt a warmth spread through him, knowing that he was making a difference in their lives.
Arctic walked home from his therapy session with a thoughtful expression, turning over the therapist’s words in his mind. They’d spent the last hour talking about his feelings for the Dazzlings, particularly Sonata, who always brought out his softer side. The therapist had encouraged him to be honest, both with himself and with the girls, and to take things at a pace that felt comfortable for everyone. Relationships—whether romantic or friendly—couldn’t be forced, and showing kindness and patience would allow genuine bonds to flourish. Arctic hadn't told his therapist how the Dazzlings were from another world, but she didn't need to know about that, that would make things weird.
As he approached his house, Arctic noticed Sonata sitting at the kitchen table through the window. She was hunched over her homework, tongue sticking out in concentration as she tapped her pencil against her notebook. He let himself in quietly, trying not to disturb her focus.
“Hey, Sonata,” he greeted with a smile, setting his keys on the counter.
Sonata looked up, a bright smile breaking across her face. “Arctic! How was your… uh… you know, your appointment?”
“It was good,” he replied, pulling a chair out across from her. “It helped me think through a few things.”
“Oh?” Sonata tilted her head, curious. “Like what?”
“Just… how much I care about my friends, and how lucky I am to have them.” He smiled, glancing down before gathering his courage. “Actually, speaking of friends… would you like to go out tonight? Just you and me? You know, a… uh… friend date?” He cringed at his own wording but smiled through it. 'Why can't I just ask her out on an actual date and not some dumb friend date? Friend dates aren't even a thing... I think.'
Sonata’s eyes widened in surprise. “A friend date?” She paused, considering it, and then broke into an enthusiastic grin. “Yeah! I’d love that! Where are we going?”
“Anywhere you want,” Arctic said, feeling a bit relieved. “How about tacos?”
Her face lit up like a firework. “Yes! Tacos! I was just thinking about them!” Arctic deadpanned a small bead of sweat rolled down his cheek. 'You always think about tacos. You eat, sleep, and breathe tacos.'
Arctic chuckled, feeling his heart lift as he watched her excitement. “Great. Let’s get ready and head out in a few.”
Sonata quickly shoved her books back into her bag, dashing upstairs to change, not caring to finish her homework. Arctic meanwhile, changed into something a bit nicer than his usual casual wear. Fifteen minutes later, the two of them were walking down the sidewalk, the cool evening air crisp and refreshing.
They strolled to a taco joint not far from his house, the smell of freshly grilled food greeting them as they entered. Arctic ordered for them both, and soon they were seated at a booth, a spread of tacos between them.
Sonata wasted no time digging in, savoring each bite. “These are sooo good!” she said with a dreamy expression. “It feels like forever since I’ve had real, proper tacos.”
“You had tacos two days ago," Arctic whispered to himself. Sonata was too busy eating her tacos that she didn't hear. "Glad you like them,” Arctic laughed, watching her enthusiasm. “You’re kind of an expert when it comes to tacos, aren’t you?”
“Absolutely!” Sonata proclaimed, a playful grin on her face. “If there’s one thing I know, it’s how to judge a taco. And these are top-notch.”
They spent the next hour laughing and talking over dinner, sharing stories from school and memories of their favorite foods. Arctic found himself relaxing more than he had in a while, enjoying the simple pleasure of Sonata’s company. She had this infectious energy that made everything feel brighter, and her laugh brought a smile to his face every time.
After finishing their meal, the two decided to walk around Canterlot, not ready for the night to end. The cool night air was soothing and calm and the moon was full, casting a soft glow all over Canterlot. The two of them found themselves walking over a bridge, taking a stop to admire the moon that stood high, lightening up the night sky along with the rest of the stars.
“This was so much fun, Arctic,” Sonata said, her voice soft as they watched the moon. She glanced at him, her smile glowing in the moonlight. “Thanks for taking me out. I haven’t felt this happy in… well, a long time.”
Arctic felt a warmth spread through him. “I’m glad, Sonata. You deserve to be happy. I know things have been tough lately, but… I really care about you, and I want to see you smile.”
Sonata looked down, fidgeting with the edge of her sleeve. After a few more minutes on the bridge, they walked in silence for a few moments, the only sound being the soft rustle of leaves in the breeze. Then, as they reached the end of the block where Arctic's house was located, Sonata suddenly stopped, turning to face him with an earnest expression.
“Thank you, Arctic,” she said softly, her voice filled with sincerity. “For everything. For giving us a home, for… for caring about us, even when we don’t deserve it sometimes.”
Before Arctic could respond, she leaned in and gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek, her lips warm and light against his skin. The unexpected gesture left him momentarily speechless, his cheeks flushing a bright red.
Sonata stepped back, a shy smile playing on her lips, her own cheeks tinted pink. “Goodnight, Arctic,” she said with a small, nervous laugh, and then she turned, rushing up the steps to the front door. As she closed the door she held her hands to hide her cheeks that were bright red. 'Why did I do that?'
He stood there for a moment, watching her go, a dazed smile on his face. As she slipped inside, he could just make out her hurried footsteps and the faint sound of her muffled laughter as she disappeared down the hallway.
Left alone in the quiet night, Arctic glanced up at the moon, a soft smile on his lips as he thought about how much his life had changed since meeting the Dazzlings. He’d gone from being a simple high school student to being the anchor for three girls who, at one point, had been Sunset and her group's rivals. But now… they were his friends, and maybe, just maybe, something more.
Shaking his head with a chuckle, Arctic headed up the steps and opened the door, stepping inside to find the house quiet and still. He walked to his room, his thoughts racing with the memories of the evening. Just before he closed his door, he paused, catching a glimpse of Sonata’s light still beneath her door.
He knew things would get complicated, that helping the Dazzlings find themselves again—and maybe even fall in love along the way—would be anything but simple. But for the first time in a long time, he felt hopeful about the future. Smiling to himself, he closed his door and got ready for bed, wondering what adventures tomorrow would bring.
As Arctic sat at his desk, he flipped through the calendar on his wall, glancing at the date circled in bright red marker. Fall Formal. It was just around the corner, and he couldn’t help but smile, thinking about the journey leading up to this moment.
It had been a few months since he had offered to help the Dazzlings regain their singing voices, and looking back, he marveled at how much had changed. From those initial uncertain days of making new friends out of unlikely allies to the determination he’d seen from each of them as they worked tirelessly to recover a part of themselves, they thought was lost forever.
Initially, the idea of the Rainbooms giving the Dazzlings singing lessons had seemed… ambitious. There was so much history between them, and neither group had been particularly enthusiastic about spending time together. But slowly, Arctic had watched walls break down as each session passed. The Rainbooms, especially Sunset and Fluttershy, had gone out of their way to be patient and encouraging, while Adagio, Aria, and Sonata pushed themselves harder than they ever had before.
In the beginning, the sessions were rocky, as the Dazzlings tried to find their rhythm again without the magical assistance of their pendants. There were days when their voices cracked or hit notes flat, and frustrations would rise to the surface, especially from Adagio and Aria, who were used to being confident and commanding when they sang. But through it all, Sonata’s boundless optimism kept them going. Every time they stumbled, she would laugh it off and say, “Hey, at least we’re getting better, right?” Eventually, her positivity began to rub off on her sisters, helping them relax in the process.
Over time, their voices returned, clearer and stronger than before. And it wasn’t just a return of their vocal skills—Arctic could see how much this meant to them. They looked more happy than they had been, showing just how their singing voices meant to them. Singing had been an essential part of who they were, their way of expressing themselves and connecting to the world, and reclaiming it felt like reclaiming a piece of their identity.
The Rainbooms were impressed too, and they’d even formed a genuine respect for the Dazzlings. While they’d started as rivals and enemies, they were now working together, each group learning from the other. Fluttershy had been particularly moved by Sonata’s voice, remarking one day after a session, “You have such a unique sound, Sonata… it’s like listening to a memory.” Sonata had beamed at the compliment, practically floating on air. Even Rainbow and Aria were getting along with one another and not at each other's throats like they once were a few months back.
And today, Arctic was about to witness something he had been waiting for with eager anticipation: the Dazzlings’ first full song since they regained their voices. This would also be the first time the Dazzlings would sing since the Battle of the Bands. They had been practicing in secret, telling him that they had a “surprise” in store. He waited in the living room, clapping his hands together in anticipation, as the girls took their positions in front of him, exchanging a confident glance.
“Ready, Arctic?” Adagio asked with a glint in her eye. Her usual smugness was there, but Arctic could tell it was more than just pride—it was the confidence that came from finally feeling whole again.
“Absolutely. Knock my socks off,” he said, settling back and giving them his full attention.
Adagio nodded at Aria and Sonata, and the three of them began. They had decided to sing one of the old songs they played when they had their pendants. The first note they hit was breathtaking. Their voices melded together in perfect harmony, rich and powerful, yet delicate, too. As they sang, Arctic felt chills run down his spine, awestruck by the beauty of their voices. This was the first time Arctic was hearing the Dazzlings sing and he could say for certain that they were better than any artist that he knew. It was like watching an art form come to life, the months of hard work paying off in a flawless performance.
The song was one he hadn’t heard before, a ballad that sounded both haunting and hopeful. It was clear they had poured their hearts into it, channeling their struggles, growth, and resilience. As they sang, Arctic could see flashes of everything they had been through together, from their early days of frustration and rivalry to the genuine bond they had now.
When they finished, the last note hung in the air, filling the room with a sense of tranquility. Arctic was silent for a moment, absorbing what he had just witnessed. Then, unable to contain himself, he broke into applause, his cheers filling the room.
“That was… amazing!” he exclaimed, beaming at them. “I can’t believe how incredible you sound. I knew you’d get your voices back, but that was beyond anything I could’ve imagined!”
The Dazzlings shared a proud smile, clearly happy with his reaction. Sonata practically bounced over to him, grinning from ear to ear.
“Did you really like it, Arctic?” she asked, her eyes shining with excitement.
“Like it? I loved it! You were all fantastic,” he replied, glancing at Adagio and Aria, who both looked equally pleased.
“It feels good to be able to sing again,” Aria admitted, folding her arms but unable to hide the small smile creeping onto her face. “And it’s even better without those pendants controlling everything.”
Adagio nodded, looking thoughtful. “I think… we’re finally moving forward. We can be ourselves again.”
Arctic felt a wave of happiness, not just for their talent, but because he could see how genuinely content they were. For months, he had watched them struggle, slowly but surely finding a way back to their true selves. And now, they were shining.
After they finished their impromptu concert, Arctic wandered back to his room, where his eyes drifted to the calendar. The Fall Formal was coming up, and he felt a surge of excitement. It was his first formal dance, and he couldn’t wait to experience it with the people he had grown closest to over the last few months.
He started thinking about the upcoming dance, realizing it would be a perfect opportunity for the Dazzlings to showcase their new voices to the rest of the school. They could show everyone at Canterlot High who they truly were now, without the magic, just as regular girls with an extraordinary talent. But would the school let the Dazzlings sing at the Fall Formal? He would have to ask if they'd let them. He also thought about how he would plan on asking Sonata to the Fall Formal, he knew he was going to ask but how? And when? The thought stayed with him throughout the evening, and as the days drew closer to the Fall Formal, he couldn’t shake the feeling that it was going to be a night to remember.
As the Fall Formal approached, the excitement in the air was almost palpable. Canterlot High was buzzing with anticipation, and Arctic, along with the Dazzlings, could feel the thrill of it building up. They were all looking forward to the dance, especially because it was one of the first school events they’d all be attending together since the Dazzlings’ big return to singing. But with just a week left before the big night, it was time to sort out their outfits, and there was only one person they knew could handle the job perfectly: Rarity.
The four of them headed to Rarity’s boutique after school, where she greeted them with her signature enthusiasm.
“Darlings!” she exclaimed as she pulled them into a warm hug one by one. “What a delightful surprise! Let me guess— you’re here to discuss your Fall Formal attire?”
Arctic chuckled, glancing at the Dazzlings. “You got it. We were hoping you might help us look our best for the dance.”
Rarity’s eyes sparkled, and she clapped her hands together in excitement. “Oh, I would be honored ! I already have a few ideas for each of you, if you’d like to take a look!”
She quickly led them over to a small display of sketches she’d been working on, each design perfectly suited to their personalities. Adagio’s sketch featured a bold, glamorous gown that oozed confidence, while Aria’s ensemble had an edgy elegance to it. Sonata’s outfit was more playful, light, and colorful—perfectly capturing her bright personality. As for Arctic, Rarity had envisioned a sleek, classic look that was both sophisticated and modern.
The Dazzlings exchanged thrilled glances. “Rarity, you really outdid yourself,” Adagio said, her eyes shining with appreciation. “These are perfect.”
“Yeah, it’s like you know exactly what we’d want!” Sonata added, bouncing a little with excitement.
Rarity smiled proudly. “That’s my job, darling! Now, why don’t you all get into the fitting rooms so I can make any adjustments we need?”
As the girls headed off to try on their outfits, Arctic found himself alone with Rarity, who had her usual sly grin on her face.
“You’re lucky you asked for my help with these outfits,” she said, raising an eyebrow. “Because I happen to know that someone here has their eye on a certain someone else.”
Arctic’s face flushed as he stammered, “Uh, what? W-What do you mean?”
“Oh, Arctic, please,” Rarity said with a chuckle, patting him on the shoulder. “It’s written all over your face when you’re around Sonata. Why, I’d even wager you were planning to ask her to the Formal, hmm?”
He scratched the back of his neck, looking away with a shy smile. “I… yeah, you’re right. I was planning on it, but I’m still working on how to bring it up.” Arctic turned his head as he looked at some of the other dresses Rarity had around. 'She sure is a love expert, heck she could be a master. How did she know I liked Sonata? Am I really that obvious? I thought I did a good job on keeping it hidden, but Rarity read me like a book.'
Rarity smiled approvingly. “Well, I think it’s a lovely idea. And as for how—just be yourself. Sonata clearly likes you for who you are, so just let her know how you feel.”
Arctic nodded, thanking Rarity for her words, feeling a bit more confident as the Dazzlings returned to the main area, each wearing their dress. Rarity adjusted a few things here and there, beaming with pride as she looked over her creations at her friends. The girls admired each other’s outfits, sharing compliments and laughter as they took in how stunning they all looked. Arctic couldn’t help but stare at all of them, Sonata a little longer than he intended, his heart racing as he admired how her outfit highlighted her bright, cheerful spirit. He couldn't help but blush with how beautiful she looked, she looked like a princess. No. A queen. The most beautiful girl he had ever seen in his life. Arctic continued to stare while Sonata continued to look at herself. Unbeknownst to him, Adagio, Rarity, and Aria all saw him looking and smiled.
Once they finished with the fittings, Rarity promised to have everything ready by the day of the dance, and they all thanked her before heading home. As they walked, Arctic fell in step beside Sonata, his heart pounding as he worked up the courage to ask her to the Formal as his date.
“Hey, Sonata,” he began, trying to keep his voice casual, "Can I ask you something?”
“Sure!” she replied, flashing him her usual warm smile.
“So, I know we’re all going together to the Formal,” he started, choosing his words carefully while Sonata nodded, “but I was wondering if… well if maybe you’d like to go with me. You know, as… as a date?”
Sonata blinked, processing his words for a moment. “Oh, we’re already going together as friends, silly!” she said with a little laugh. “You, me, Adagio, and Aria.” Arctic, Adagio, and Aria deadpanned. Sonata could really be stupid when she wanted to be, and that was almost one hundred percent of the time.
Arctic’s cheeks went red as he realized how clueless she could be. He chuckled, gathering his thoughts before trying again. “No, I mean, just the two of us… like, as a couple. You know… if you’d want to.” He turned his head as he scratched the back of his neck, a clear blush on his face.
Realization dawned on Sonata’s face as it turned red. Arctic couldn't tell if it was from embarrassment she made a mistake or because he asked her to the dance as a date. Her eyes widened in surprise, and a slow, bright smile spread across her lips, as she looked up at him with excitement and a hint of shyness. “Oh! You mean… you want us to go as, like, a real date?”
Arctic nodded, his heart pounding as he waited for her response. Sonata’s smile grew even brighter, and without another word, she practically threw herself at him, wrapping her arms around him in a quick, joyful hug that once again made him blush.
“Yes! I’d love that, Arctic!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with happiness.
From behind them, Adagio and Aria exchanged knowing glances, each with a smirk on their face.
“About time,” Aria muttered with a grin. “I was wondering if he’d actually do it.”
Adagio nodded, a glint of satisfaction in her eyes. “And it looks like she finally caught on to what he was asking. They look good together, like an actual couple. Our sister has a boyfriend~”
Oblivious to her sisters’ amusement, Sonata released Arctic, her cheeks pink as she looked up at him. “I’m really excited now,” she admitted with a giggle. “It’ll be fun going with you as my date.”
Arctic couldn’t stop the smile from spreading across his face. “Me too, Sonata. I can’t wait.”
The rest of the walk home was filled with laughter and excitement as they discussed the Formal and all the fun they’d have. Adagio and Aria teased Sonata a little, making her blush, but she didn’t mind. Her excitement and happiness were too strong to be dampened by their playful jabs.
That day at school everyone talked about the Fall Formal later on that night. Everyone was excited, ready to have the time of their lives dancing and partying with their friends or with someone they liked, like a certain someone.
When Sunset and her group found out that Arctic had asked out Sonata to the dance they were happy for him. It was obvious to all of them that Arctic liked her. Knowing that his friends cheered him on made Arctic happy. When Arctic told his mom about bringing Sonata to the Fall Formal as his date, his mom almost hugged him half to death. She was happy for Arctic, but what was most surprising was that she knew Arctic liked her. As she would call it, it was motherly instinct.
The night of the Fall Formal had finally arrived, and Arctic was getting ready. Arctic smiled to himself as he checked himself out, making sure he looked his best for tonight. This would be his first time going to an event like this. The first three years he had skipped prom, after all, why would he go when he didn't have a date or any friends to hang out with? And he didn't want to be the loner who stood by the wall and watched everyone else have fun.
'I would what dad would think of me in this suit. I wonder if he would think I look good.' Arctic messed with his hair one last time and checked himself for the hundredth time that night. 'All right, looking good.'
Arctic was ready well before the others, dressed in a sharp, black suit with a classic bow tie. He checked himself in the mirror, adjusting his tie one last time as it was starting to lean to the side, and paced a bit as he waited for the Dazzlings to finish getting ready. They were taking longer than he expected, and he couldn’t help but worry that they might actually be late. He knew that the Dazzlings, especially Adagio, took a bit to get ready but not this long.
He called out to them from the living room. “Hey, are you all done yet? We’re going to be late if we don’t leave soon!”
From upstairs, he heard Adagio call back, “Hold your horses, Arctic. We’ll be down in a minute!”
Arctic chuckled, crossing his arms and leaning against the wall as he waited. True to their word, the Dazzlings finally appeared at the top of the stairs. They each wore dresses custom-designed by Rarity, each outfit a reflection of their personalities and sense of style. Adagio descended first, her gown a stunning deep red that highlighted her confident poise. Aria followed in a bold, edgy ensemble, a dark purple dress with asymmetrical cuts and silver accents that suited her perfectly.
And then there was Sonata. She stepped forward, her dress a shade of soft blue that matched her eyes, flowing gracefully around her as she moved. Arctic felt his breath hitch—she looked radiant, her natural joy amplified by the elegance of her dress. She noticed him staring and offered him a shy smile, her cheeks faintly pink.
“Wow, you all look amazing,” Arctic said, trying to keep his cool as he looked at each of them. “Especially you, Sonata.”
She blushed deeper and gave him a playful nudge. “Thanks, Arctic. You look pretty good yourself.”
With everyone finally ready, they headed out and made their way to the gymnasium where the dance was being held. When they stepped inside, they were awestruck. Pinkie Pie had gone all out, transforming the place into a glittering spectacle. Colorful lights flashed from the ceiling, the walls were adorned with streamers and balloons, and a massive table was set up with a spread of treats and snacks.
“Wow, Pinkie really outdid herself this time,” Adagio remarked, looking around in amazement.
“No kidding,” Aria agreed, impressed. “This place actually looks… cool.”
They took in the scene, smiling at the groups of students scattered around the room, dancing, laughing, and chatting. Arctic and the Dazzlings drifted apart to greet friends and explore, each excited to make the most of the night. Arctic sampled the snacks, appreciating Pinkie’s talent for baking, and chatted with a few friends. He spotted Sonata across the room a couple of times, laughing with her sisters or friends, her happiness making him smile. He decided he’d find her soon so they could share a dance.
However, before he could start searching for her, a group of classmates approached him with curious, smug expressions. He had a feeling this conversation might not go well.
“Hey, Arctic,” one of the guys greeted, a smirk on his face. “We heard some rumors about you and the Dazzlings.”
Arctic raised an eyebrow. “Rumors?”
“Yeah,” another one chimed in, “like, is it true you came to the Formal with one of the Dazzlings? And that they’re, like, staying with you? What’s that all about?”
Arctic felt his patience thinning but decided to keep it light. “Well, yes, they’re staying with me,” he replied, keeping his tone neutral. “And I came with Sonata tonight, yeah.”
A girl in the group shot him a skeptical look. “Aren’t they, like, super dangerous or something? Why would you even help them out? It’s not like they’re the nicest people around.”
Arctic’s expression soured as he sensed the judgmental tone creeping into their voices. He could tell these classmates were looking down at him for associating with the Dazzlings. The irritation rose, and he decided to take a sarcastic approach to throw them off.
“Oh, right, because obviously, I don’t care about them at all,” he said dryly, rolling his eyes. “I mean, I totally didn’t let them live in my house for months just to help them get back on their feet or anything. And I definitely didn’t put in time to help them regain their singing voices because I thought they had any potential. I just… did it for fun.”
They looked at him in confusion, exchanging glances.
“Yeah, you’re totally right,” he continued, voice dripping with sarcasm. “I didn’t actually come here with one of them tonight. I came with Sunset Shimmer.” Unbeknownst to Arctic, Sonata who had been walking up to Arctic to ask to dance had heard everything. From not caring about them, doing it for fun, and most importantly... going to the dance with Sunset and not her. She hadn't picked up on the sarcasm and believed what Arctic was saying was true.
"I thought he wanted to come to the Fall Formal with me..." Sonata looked down, holding back tears as she ran away from Arctic. Not wanting to hear the rest of Arctic's conversation.
Adagio and Aria were talking when they noticed Sonata run their way. "Sonata? What's wro-" Before Adagio could finish Sonata rushed past her and out of the gymnasium. Aria and Adagio exchanged glances before heading off to Arctic, to give Sonata time to herself, but also to see if he knew anything.
Back to Arctic, one of the guys frowned, clearly frustrated by Arctic’s tone. “Alright, alright, we get it. But you’re seriously saying you like them? You think they deserve this chance or something?”
Arctic’s tone grew serious as he looked them in the eye. “Yeah, I do. I know they’ve made mistakes, but they’re also good people who are trying to change. They’re not the same as they were before, and I actually care about them—especially Sonata.”
As he finished speaking, he glanced around, hoping to spot Sonata so they could finally enjoy their night together. But instead, he saw Adagio and Aria coming toward him, their expressions concerned.
“Hey, do know what happened to Sonata?” Adagio asked, looking worried.
Arctic felt a pang of worry in his chest. “No, I was actually about to find her. What’s wrong?”
Aria folded her arms, looking around the crowded room. “She looked pretty upset and left the Formal a little while ago. We didn’t catch why, but we thought maybe you’d know.”
Confusion mixed with concern as Arctic tried to make sense of this. “Upset? Why would she be upset?”
Adagio exchanged a quick glance with Aria before looking back at Arctic. “I don’t know, but she looked like she really wanted to be alone.”
Realizing that something must have happened—and that he was somehow connected to it—Arctic felt a jolt of panic. “I… I think I know why she might be upset. I need to find her.”
Without waiting, Arctic turned and dashed out of the gymnasium, his heart pounding. He raced through the hallways, searching every corner, growing more anxious with every second that passed. After a few minutes, he decided to check outside, hoping she hadn’t gone far.
Arctic’s eyes scanned the empty streets around him, the sounds of distant laughter from the Fall Formal drifting into the quiet night. He’d checked nearly every spot he could think of where Sonata might have gone. Anxiety stirred in his chest; he didn’t want her to misunderstand what he’d said back at the dance. Then it hit him—a sudden realization. There was one more place she might be, a place that held a special memory for both of them. The bridge. The same one they’d crossed together on their first date. Arctic set off toward it, his pace quickening.
When he arrived, his heart sank a little and lifted all at once. Sonata sat on the edge of the bridge, her figure silhouetted against the soft light of the moon, which shone over the calm river below. Her shoulders slumped slightly as she looked out over the water, and he could see the sadness in her posture. Seeing her like this, on the edge of the bridge, made Arctic reminded of himself and how he had been in the same situation just months ago before moving to Canterlot. He too had once been on the edge of a bridge, looking down at the ground below. But for him, he had been contemplating whether to jump or not.
Quietly, Arctic made his way over and sat down next to her, careful not to startle her. For a moment, neither of them spoke. The sound of the water below filled the silence, steady and calming. He looked at her, waiting for her to meet his gaze, but her eyes remained fixed on the river. 'Is she sad or mad? I can't tell. I've never seen her like this before.'
Finally, she broke the silence, her voice soft. "I heard what you said, Arctic. I know you don’t care about us…about me. I also heard how you actually came to the Fall Formal with Sunset instead of me. Do you like Sunset? I should’ve known you would. She's amazing. But then why would you ask me? To humiliate me? We've already been humiliated since coming back to Canterlot."
Arctic’s chest tightened. She had heard what he had said but she hadn’t picked up on his sarcasm—she’d taken everything he said as truth. Guilt flooded him. He took a deep breath, searching for the right words.
“Sonata,” he began, his voice gentle, “I was being sarcastic. Those guys were giving me attitude, acting like I couldn’t care about anyone but myself. They were saying things about you and their sisters. I thought they’d pick up on it, which they did but I guess…it didn’t come out that way to others that were nearby and overheard our conversation.”
Sonata turned to him, her eyes wide. “So… you don’t hate us? You don’t hate me? You helped us because you wanted to and you went to the Fall Formal with me and not Sunset.”
“Of course not!” He looked deeply into her eyes, making sure she could see the sincerity in his own. “I care about you, Sonata. About all of you. But you especially. I care about you a lot. There's no one else I'd like to go to the Fall Formal than you.”
A small, hopeful smile tugged at the corner of her mouth, and she looked away, her cheeks flushing under the moonlight. “You mean that?”
Arctic took her hand, his fingers wrapping around hers. “I do. I care about you more than I can put into words. I… I like you, Sonata. A lot.”
Sonata’s eyes brightened, and her lips curved into a shy smile. “I… like you too, Arctic. I’ve liked you for a while, actually.”
Slowly, Arctic leaned closer to her, their faces only inches apart. The moonlight bathed them both in a silvery glow as their eyes met. In that quiet moment, surrounded by the soft whispers of the night, they closed the distance, their lips meeting in a tender kiss. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them on the bridge under the vast, star-strewn sky.
When they finally pulled apart, Arctic felt his heart beating with a mix of joy and calm he hadn’t known in a long time. He took a steadying breath, gathering his thoughts.
“Sonata, there’s something I want to tell you. Something I haven’t shared with anyone here… besides my mom, my therapist, and Adagio.” He paused, looking down at the river below, gathering the courage to continue. “Before I moved here to Canterlot and met you and the others, I wasn’t in a good place. I lost my dad. It…it felt like a piece of me had been torn away. I was... depressed. And there were times when I thought about giving up altogether.”
Sonata’s hand tightened in his, and she watched him with a mixture of sadness and compassion. He continued, her presence giving him the strength to keep going.
“Moving to Canterlot was supposed to be a fresh start, but I didn’t know if it would work. Meeting the Rainbooms helped, but when I met you and the other Dazzlings…” He looked at her, his expression soft. “You guys were in a bad spot just like I had been just a few weeks ago and I wanted to help. And then something changed. You made me feel like I wasn’t alone anymore. I started to believe that I could be happy again.”
Sonata’s eyes glistened with unshed tears as she leaned her head against his shoulder. “I’m so glad you didn’t give up, Arctic. I can’t imagine my life without you.”
Arctic wrapped his arm around her, holding her close. “Thank you, Sonata. For being there, even when I didn’t realize how much I needed someone.”
They sat there in silence for a few moments, content just to be in each other’s company, under the watchful eye of the moon. Finally, Arctic pulled back, looking at her with a gentle smile.
“Ready to head back to the dance?” he asked, his voice soft.
Sonata nodded, a smile spreading across her face. “Yeah. I think I am.”
Hand in hand, they walked back toward the school, their hearts lighter and their spirits lifted. By the time they returned, the sounds of laughter and music filled the air, and the energy of the Fall Formal pulled them right back into the celebration.
At the entrance, they spotted Adagio and Aria, who looked relieved to see them. Aria crossed her arms, a knowing grin on her face. “Well, look who finally decided to show up. What happened?”
Arctic shrugged, glancing at Sonata, who still held his hand. “Just a big misunderstanding,” he said with a smile.
Adagio’s eyes flicked down to their joined hands, and she raised an eyebrow. “Looks like things worked out just fine, though.”
Sonata and Arctic exchanged a look, then smiled. “Yeah, I guess they did,” Arctic replied.
The four of them headed back into the gym, joining the rest of their friends. They danced, laughed, and enjoyed every moment, Arctic feeling a warmth he hadn’t experienced in a long time. As he twirled Sonata around on the dance floor, he felt the weight of his past lifting, replaced by a newfound happiness.
"Our next song will actually be performed by our very own Dazzlings! Come to the stage, girls!" There were a few gasps and murmurs throughout the crowd. Arctic and the Rainbooms smiled when they saw the shocked expressions plastered on the Dazzling's faces.
Sonata turned to Arctic, looking for answers. "Arctic, what's going on?"
"You have your singing voices back now, and what better way to show them off than by performing in front of a large crowd? Just like you three used to do. You want everyone to like you again, right? You can do that by giving them the performance of a lifetime. Make them adore you!" The Dazzlings looked at Arctic who smiled and pointed at the stage.
The Dazzlings made their way to the stage and grabbed the microphones. Adagio turned her head to her sisters with a smile. "You ready girls?" Aria and Sonata nodded their heads and with the count of three, they began singing in front of everyone.
The gymnasium was filled with beautiful music, and instead of falling under a spell like before, everyone smiled and sang to the beat of the music. The crowd began to cheer on the Dazzlings who continued to sing with smiles on their faces. Arctic smiled seeing the Dazzlings so happy, as well as the crowd of students who seemed to enjoy their singing. The smiles on everyone's faces were enough to tell Arctic that maybe, just maybe, when all of this was over, the students would start to light up to the Dazzlings. It wouldn't be overnight but Arctic had a good feeling this was just the beginning of the Dazzlings and their road to redemption.
Looking around the gym at the faces of his friends, Arctic thought about how much his life had changed. He hadn’t expected to find so much here in Canterlot, hadn’t expected to find love, support, or a group of people who cared about him. He looked back at Sonata, who was smiling up at him with such warmth, and he felt his heart swell.
In his mind, he thought of his dad, sending out a silent message. I miss you, Dad, but I’m okay. I’ve met some amazing people, and I’m finally happy after so long. Thank you for everything.
With that, he focused on the present, on the joy of the night, and on the future that now seemed brighter than ever.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed this book! It was a lot of fun making this book for a friend of mine. I can say with confidence that I'm glad with how this book turned out. Everything I wanted to happen went how I wanted to and I'm glad with how the ending went. I hope you guys enjoyed this book as much as I liked making it! I already knew how this book would turn out so I decided to work on this and finish it. Be on the lookout because there will be many updates to A Sunset Within A Darkness and A Dazzling New Life: High School to come.
