Sunset is caught when attempting to steal Twilights crown. She is shown friendship and returns to the human world. Determined to make friends she attends a party, unaware it is hosted by The Dazzlings, powerful vampires banished centuries ago.
Sunset is caught when attempting to steal Twilight's crown. They show her friendship and she learns the error of her ways. Upon returning to the human world Sunset is determined to make real friends. She attends a party hosted by The Dazzlings, unaware they are the legendary Vampire banished by Starswirl the Bearded. Human world AU. FIM mostly Canon. AdagioXSunset. Vampire Dazzlings.
The guardsponies patrolled the quiet torchlit halls of the Crystal Empire, each door guarded closely as within slept an Element of Harmony. Twilight Sparkle and her friends were visiting for her first royal summit following her coronation as the Princess of Friendship. Lurking within the shadows was Sunset Shimmer, her sinister demeanor hidden by the cloak she wore. Quickly, Sunset's eyes set upon the door she was after. There were two pegasi guards keeping watch, so she knew getting past them was going to be difficult. If she wasn't quick enough, it could all end there. First was getting to the door, but she needed a plan. She was outnumbered, she didn't know swordsmanship and magic would lead to high alert.
Coming to a decision she continued down the hall, sneaking past several guards on the way. She rolled her eyes at their incompetence, slipping into a room she remembered from the previous day, when she first came here to learn the grounds and figure out where the Element of Magic would be kept. She looked through the familiar alchemy room, a plethora of ingredients sitting on the different shelves. Quickly she began picking and choosing what she needed from memory alone. Passionflower, Tart cherry, Magnesium Chelate, Tryptophan, Hops. One by one she added the ingredients into a grinding bowl, mashing them together into a fine powder. She grabbed a nearby pouch with her magic, slowly pouring the powder into it before tying it tightly shut.
Returning to Twilight's door she carefully opened the bag with her magic, utilizing a simple wind spell to carry the particles across the hall and into the faces of the two guards watching over the princess's door. She watched for several seconds, the two beginning to sway, fighting to stay awake before falling unconsciously to the ground. Sunset grinned at her handiwork, slipping past the sleeping bodies and into the room where she saw Twilight's crown, the Element of Magic, sitting on a nightstand next to the princesses bed.
Sneaking past the snoring baby dragon she snatched the element within her magic, catching the nearby lamp she mistakenly bumped before it managed to hit the floor and shatter. She internally scolded herself. She couldn’t imagine the plan failing over such a trivial mistake. Quickly she placed the crown into her cloak, setting the lamp back down and turning to make a hasty retreat. To her dismay, the dragon must have moved in his sleep, as his tail moved out in front of her at the last second, tripping her. She let out a startled cry, slamming onto the cold and unforgiving floor with a loud thud.
The baby dragon, Spike, was the first to awaken. Startled, he looked at the unexpected unicorn in surprise as she slowly got back to her feet. Twilight likewise looked her way, yawning softly as she spotted the sparkle of her crown within the inner pocket of Sunset’s cloak.
“My crown! She’s got my crown!” Twilight yelled, now fully awake. Sunset cursed under her breath. She was so close, but it wasn't too late. She just needed to make it back to the human world, where she could use the crown's magic immediately and begin her takeover. Quickly she swung open the door, bolting down the long hallway as quickly as legs would carry her, caring little for the countless guard ponies who now knew of her presence and began to pursue her. She didn’t bother to look back, hearing the sound of hooves clacking against the crystal floor after her.
She took a sharp turn, Twilight yelling for her to stop as several doors at her sides opened immediately, the guards of those doors quickly drawing their weapons in preparation to take her down. She spotted several colorful ponies watching her in confusion and surprise. They didn’t immediately react but jumped to aid Twilight and the guards as she announced that she had stolen her crown. Inside, she wanted to panic, as she now had the Elements of Harmony and countless guardsponies charging after her. Shaking her head of those thoughts she instead tried to remain positive, all she needed to do was reach the mirror! Just a few more turns and she would be there!
Chancing a look back she nearly screamed as the rainbow maned pegasus slammed into her, causing the crown to fly from her cloak pocket and back toward the rushing ponies. Twilight was quick to grab it with her magic, offering it to Spike, who began running in the opposite direction to prevent Sunset from possibly reobtaining it somehow. Seeing this Sunset felt her stomach drop, that ever familiar feeling of deep dread and failure encompassing her entire being.
“No!” Sunset screamed, her voice a mixture of sorrow and rage. She was so close! She just needed to make it a little further, but now the crown was being taken away by that damned dragon! She could attempt a teleportation spell, but then what? She knock the dragon down and run in the opposite direction of the portal? What about the guards? They were now surrounding her, weapons pointing in her direction as the cyan mare held her firmly to the ground.
“Who are you and why did you try to steal my friend's crown?!” Rainbow Dash yelled, tightening her hold on Sunset as she glared down at her. Was that hatred she saw in the mare's magenta eyes? That look, she recognized it, it haunted her.
"Now, Sunset Shimmer, for your final test, you shall need to wow us. Give us the best you've got" an older grey unicorn said, glaring down at the younger mare. Beside him sat two more ponies, the three of them judges for the final exam of Celestia's school for gifted unicorns.
All around her other students sat, staring at her with looks of envy or disdain. Pushing their stares out of her mind she instead focused on the judges, the second of which began to speak.
"As princess Celestia's own pupil, we expect big, big things today"
Of course they did. The teachers and adults hardly cared about her as a pony. No, all they cared about was her power, what they expected a student of the Princess to achieve.
Her fellow students were no better. Most were jealous of her position as Princess Celestia's pupil. Others who did pretend to care about her slipped up rather quickly, revealing that they only ever cared about what perks they could gain from her position.
Pushing the loneliness from her mind she instead focused on the pot of soil in front of her, her horn lighting up as she began to cast her spell.
"Oh! It looks like she's going to do a growth spell. A classic, but is it enough?"
"I suppose we will see, won't we?"
She grit her teeth, focusing every ounce of power she had into casting this spell. Oh, they will see, alright. Suddenly, several vines sprang forth from the soil, growing ever larger as they smashed into windows and broke through walls. She didn't mean to do this! The students screamed as debris and shattered glass flew in every direction.
"What are you doing?! Is this the way the pupil of Princess Celestia should act?!"
"She's so full of herself, just look at her flaunting her power in front of us, like she's special"
"I should be the one by the princess's side! Not you!"
"After all our princess has done for you, this is how you thank her?"
"Freak!"
Sunset felt moisture form in her eyes. She felt so truly alone, and no matter how hard she tried she couldn’t fill that gaping hole that continued to grow as more and more ponies rejected her.
Rainbow’s eyes widened as she looked down at the unknown unicorn, the other Elements of Harmony now closer and watching her with what looked like pity. Twilight even stared in disbelief, all semblance of anger gone from her visage. Why were they looking at her like this? Slowly, as Rainbow released her, she reached to her face, feeling the moisture of freshly shed tears trailing down her cheeks.
“Sunset Shimmer, I’ve heard that you’re not getting along well with the other students. We’ve talked about this before. Friendship is important. You need ponies in your life who you can trust and open up to” Celestia said aloud, causing Sunset to look over to her as if she’d been stung.
“I’ve tried! Why can’t you believe that?!” She cried, her voice cracking from the stress and anxiety. She continued to follow the princess as she led her to a large door. Celestia turned to her as they reached their destination, eyeing her sharply.
“You can’t stop trying, Sunset”
“So I can fail again? So others can use me for my position?” She bit out, causing Celestia to sigh.
“I don’t think anypony’s incapable of making friends”
Behind the six ponies, Spike returned, followed closely by Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. The Princess of the Sun stared down at the trembling unicorn in surprise, rendered speechless by her presence here alone.
“Look into the mirror and tell me what you see”
Sunset nodded, leaving Celestia’s side and standing before the crystal mirror. At first, she saw nothing but her own reflection, however after only a short time she saw another pony standing by her side. Then another, and another. Looking to her left and right she saw she was alone, yet in the mirror, she saw something she most longed for.
Friends.
The image shifted, a pair of brilliant wings extending from Sunset's sides. She now stood alone, beautiful and regal. An alicorn, much like her teacher. Her eyes widened as she took in this possible future, and it was now that she understood its message.
She could become an alicorn princess, just like Celestia. When she did, she would hold such power and respect the other ponies would have no choice but to do as she wished! She could make them be her friends. She wouldn’t be alone anymore.
She knew what she needed to do.
"Sunset…"
That broken voice snapped her back to the present, looking up to see the Princess of the Sun hovering over her with a look of grief. She tried to back away but was quickly engulfed in the princesses' wings. She pulled her into a tight embrace, startling the unicorn at the unexpected action.
"W-what are you…"
"I'm sorry, Sunset Shimmer. I truly have failed you, haven't I?"
Her heart raced as she stared into Celestia's purple eyes, the two orbs filled with a great deal of regret and despair. Slowly she felt a pair of hooves wrap around her as well, holding her tightly against the regal Alicorn's body. Sunset couldn't comprehend just what was going on.
"I should have gone after you. I should have listened to your plight. There are a great many things I did wrong, and I am so deeply sorry. I never meant for you to feel so lost and alone"
Sunset's breathing became rapid, her mind working a million miles a minute to try and calculate just what her previous mentor's angle was. There was no way Princess Celestia of all ponies would be genuinely apologizing to her, could it?
Sunset sat, nose buried in a book within the deepest rooms of the Canterlot Castle Library. After learning what needed to be done, Sunset began sneaking into the restricted area and learning spells the princess refused to teach her, believing she wasn’t ready for them. Her power had grown substantially and she knew she was ready to become an alicorn.
Tossing aside her most recent tome, she picked up another book, scanning the contents and stopping as she spotted information on the mirror princess Celestia had shown her weeks ago.
“The crystal mirror...every thirty moons, a portal will open to another world for three days. Thirty moons… that's 840 days if my calculations are correct. 2 years, 3 months, and 18 days to be precise, not counting the minutes or seconds” She whispered, eyes scanning the page for any further information she could gather, unaware of the presence approaching behind her.
“What are you doing here?!”
Sunset yelped, tossing the book and spinning around to face a very angry princess Celestia, flanked by two of her royal guard.
“I have made it very clear that you are not allowed here, yet you have disobeyed me,” Celestia said, her voice stern. Sunset only frowned, feeling a wave of anger in her heart alight like a burning flame.
“How dare you keep this kind of magic from me! This is what I need to become great, to become an alicorn like you!” She spat, grinding her teeth as Celestia stared back in disappointment.
“You’re being selfish, you need to step back and reflect…”
“I’m being selfish? You're the one keeping me from the power I need to make friends!” Sunset yelled, causing Celestia’s eyes to widen in surprise.
“Friends? This is no way to make friends, Sunset! What you need to do is follow my lessons!”
“I tried everything you told me! Don’t you get it?! Nopony wants me! Nopony will ever want me until I command the respect I deserve!”
“That’s not how friendship works!”
Sunset slammed a hoof on the ground, the sound echoing off the walls of the library. Celestia stared in shock, noticing the look of pure hatred written across her crying student's face. When she replied, her voice was filled with thick venom.
“How would you know? You don’t even have any friends!”
Before she could muster a reply Sunset vanished in a flash of brilliant green, exiting the teleport in the hall and rushing for the crystal mirror.
Twilight looked to the unicorn sobbing and shaking in Princess Celestia’s hold, half listening as Princess Luna recounted the events her sister shared with her about her past. Any semblance of anger left within her wilted as she heard the tragic story, realizing all of this was a desperate attempt at companionship. Sunset was alone, and she just didn’t want to be alone anymore.
She approached the two, both Celestia and Sunset turning to face her, one smiling down while the other trembled. With her own smile, she slowly reached out to Sunset, placing a hoof on her shoulder, an action the fiery maned unicorn clearly didn’t understand. As Twilight spoke, her eyes widened in disbelief, a fresh set of tears trailing down her already moist cheeks.
Sunset paced frantically, mind racing as she tried to figure out why Twilight and her friends were being so nice to her. They didn’t punish her for attempting to steal the Element of Magic, instead putting her in a guest room and explaining that they would join her shortly. She couldn’t understand why. Twilight claimed she wanted to be her friend, which Sunset immediately concluded must mean she wanted to use her, but use her for what? Her position? She was no longer a student to princess Celestia, Twilight hardly knew her, she had no position to use. Her power? Twilight was a Princess of Equestria, an Element of Harmony, and was close with the other princesses; she had little need for her power.
Then what? Sunset couldn’t think of a single reason the lavender alicorn would forgive and forget so easily. Was she lying for the sole purpose of getting her hopes up and then shattering them like glass? Or was it a lie to keep her complacent while they prepared a punishment for her crimes? Or maybe, just maybe, she was being genuine? That last thought brought a small smile to her face, but she immediately shook it off. That couldn’t be the reason.
Before she could ponder further the doors to her room burst open. Twilight was the first to enter, followed closely by the other Elements of Harmony. The pink one quickly broke off from the group, bouncing over to Sunset excitedly, shoving a cake in her direction while offering her the brightest smile she’d ever seen in her life. Her eyes widened, darting between the cake, the overly happy pink mare, and Twilight.
“W-What’s this?” Sunset stammered, surprised by the unexpected action. The pink one only giggled in response, her friends finally catching up to her.
“Pinkie here insisted on throwing you ah ‘congrats on making six new friends’ party” the farmpony answered, “We all agreed to turn it into a slumber party. We’re all anxious to get to know ya, sugarcube”
“You are?” Sunset replied, looking lost and confused. The reaction brought small frowns to the elements, but Pinkie quickly smiled once more.
“Of course we are silly! We even baked a cake for you!” She said, reaching into her puffy mane and pulling out confetti, which she threw into the air with a cheer.
“But...why?” Sunset asked, still visibly unsure what to make of all this. The purple maned unicorn stepped forward and replied.
“Because you're our friend, darling. Or we’d at least like you to be"
"We know how all those mean ponies treated you. Nopony deserves that" the buttercream pegasus added. The rainbow maned pony nodded along to her words.
"Yeah! If I were there I'd have given them a piece of my mind!"
Suddenly she took to the air, punching an invisible opponent with her forelegs. Twilight rolled her eyes at her friend's actions. Sunset however still watched them all with obvious skepticism.
"I just can't figure you out. What could you possibly want with me? Why would you care about my problems or my past? Why would you care about me?" Sunset asked bluntly, causing Twilight to suddenly look determined as she replied.
"Sunset, my friends and I represent the Elements of Harmony. Honesty, Laughter, Generosity, Kindness, Loyalty. These elements represent the magic of friendship. The elements wouldn't choose ponies who don't represent those qualities. How could we possibly ignore somepony in need of a friend?"
"You can trust us, Sugarcube. I'm nothing if not honest" Applejack added.
"I want to make you smile all day!" Pinkie agreed.
"We all just want to help you, please won't you let us?" Fluttershy begged.
"We know you're new to this whole friendship thing, but it's okay. We'll help you through it" Rarity said.
"Come on, Sunset! You'll be at least 20% cooler with me as your friend! How can you possibly turn that down?" Rainbow Dash boasted, grinning at the fiery maned unicorn.
Sunset squirmed under their stares, looking between each of them with less and less uncertainty. She couldn't think of any other reason behind their actions. It seemed they were genuine, but even so, Sunset found it hard to trust them. She eyed the cake in Pinkie Pies hoof, then back to the smiling and hopeful faces of the elements. Biting her bottom lip she slowly nodded, the room erupting in cheers.
Sunset took a bite of her strawberry vanilla cake, deeply invested in the stories her new friends excitedly shared about themselves. Rainbow Dash was currently telling her how they defeated Nightmare Moon together, swinging her hooves in the air as she explained the fight in great detail.
"So there I was, all alone. My friends were defeated and needed my help. With no other choice, I bravely took on Nightmare Moon in hoof to hoof combat, using my superior speed to avoid magical blasts from her horn"
With every swing of her hoof she would make a sound, such as bam or blam, while her friends all stared at her with unamused expressions. Sunset considered herself relatively intelligent, but it didn't take a genius to understand those stares. Rainbow was clearly boasting and over exaggerating the situation, if not outright making it up.
"Ahem" Twilight cleared her throat, causing the cyan mare to stop mid-sentence. Seeing her friends glares she blushed softly, chuckling nervously and giving Sunset a sheepish smile.
"Okay, so maybe it didn't happen exactly like that. But it was close!"
"Close my tail, Rainbow Dash" Applejack huffed, crossing her forelegs and rolling her eyes. Twilight giggled, turning her attention to Sunset as she explained what really happened.
"When Nightmare Moon destroyed the elements I thought we were done for, but then I heard them calling out to me. I felt the spark inside me when I realized they were my friends. When I realized how much I care about them, and that they cared about me. That spark created the sixth element of harmony, Magic, and together we purified Nightmare Moon and saved Princess Luna"
"Wow, that was quite a story. You six are truly interesting ponies" Sunset complimented, allowing a soft smile to grace her features. Rarity was the first to respond.
"Thank you, darling. I must admit I was absolutely delighted when my tail grew back. Speaking of which might I say your mane is absolutely divine"
"Oh?" Sunset replied with a blush, "Thank you so much, Rarity"
"Think nothing of it. Perhaps I could convince you to model for me sometime, hm?”
“I’d love to, but tomorrow is the last day the mirror will be open. I’ll have to leave before it closes again” Sunset explained.
“You’re planning on leaving?” Fluttershy asked softly, frowning at the information. The other ponies seemed saddened as well, Twilight getting up from her seat across from Sunset and approaching her, placing a reassuring hoof on her shoulder.
“I thought for sure you’d want to stay now that you have friends. You know you’re welcome here, right? No matter what you may have intended to do, we forgive you and understand why you did it. You don’t have to go back there” Twilight explained, offering the unicorn a reassuring smile.
Sunset couldn’t help but to return the smile, placing her hoof over Twilight's as she attempted to explain her feelings. She only hoped they would understand.
“It’s hard for me to be here, in Equestria. I’ve felt so alone here for so long, and nopony ever cared enough to help me until I met all of you. Even Princess Celestia, though unintentional, left me alone when I needed somepony the most. There are too many memories here. The teasing, the hatred, the jealousy. The world beyond the mirror is lonely too, but at least I don’t have to deal with the memories there. And who knows, maybe I can make some friends there too, now that I know it’s possible without the power of an alicorn princess”
“So you’ll never come back to Equestria?” Pinkie Pie asked, her mane less puffy and her demeanor much less energetic and happy. Sunset turned to her quickly, shaking her head.
“No, no, of course I will. I’m just not ready right now. This friendship thing is all new to me, and I need time. Maybe one day I can come here to stay, but not right now. Please, I still want to be friends with all of you, but I just can’t stay here yet”
One by one the ponies around her nodded, small smiles coming back to their faces as they tried to reassure her of her decision.
“You do what you have to, Sugarcube. You will always be my friend, no matter what!” Applejack said.
“She’s right. If you’re not comfortable being here yet then we will be waiting for you when the mirror opens again” Rarity agreed.
“If Sunset’s leaving tomorrow then I say we make tonight's party the bestest party ever!” Pinkie yelled, jumping to her hooves and grinning as her hair seemed to poof up once more, “I’ll get the party canon!”
“I agree with Pinkie Pie, let's enjoy the time we have together,” Fluttershy said.
“Then what are we waiting for? Let's Party!” Rainbow cheered.
Sunset looked between the six ponies in the room and felt a warmth in her heart that she hadn’t felt since Princess Celestia first took her on as her student. Had she really felt so cold for so long? Getting to her hooves she couldn’t suppress the giggle that escaped her lips as she watched Pinkie Pie pull a literal canon from out of nowhere, blasting confetti all over the room before anypony could stop her.
Sunset placed a hoof over her chest, fresh tears falling from her eyes and she looked between the Elements of Harmony. She finally had friends, she wasn’t alone anymore. She would never be alone again.
It had been a week since the portal closed and Sunset wasn't any closer to finding new friends. She wasn't used to socializing, she didn't know the places to go and meet people. She deeply missed her friends back in Equestria, but despite the loneliness, she didn’t regret her decision to return here. No matter how far apart they were she knew she’d never be alone in her heart. Using her laptop she searched for local events, coming across a post about a costume party being hosted by a local band, The Dazzlings.
According to the information she found online parties like this were normal. Every year around Halloween, the human world's equivalent to Nightmare Night, plenty of people would host them. Sunset decided to go with a simple costume this year, considering it was her first party and all. She went dressed in the clothes she normally liked to wear. Her favorite leather jacket, a simple blue top and jean combo, and her heeled boots. What made this a costume were the pair of fake fangs poking out from her lips, and the red contact lenses she bought at a Halloween store. Sunset had always been interested in vampires since she read about the deadly vampire sisters banished by Starswirl the Bearded many centuries before she was even born. Those were some of her favorite lessons.
Sunset held a slip of paper in her hand, looking at the address she’d written to ensure she came to the right place. Glancing up from the paper she found herself standing before a rather large mansion, the sounds of music and laughter coming from inside. Many cars were parked on the side of the road, more sitting in the parking lot leading to the mansion’s garage. This had to be the right place. Hoping off of her motorcycle she stepped through the front gate, approached the home as a young woman opened the door for her and gestured for her to come inside.
As she stepped through the doorway she immediately felt a chill run down her spine, though she couldn’t quite place a finger on why. Half the guest's eyes shot up, eyeing her with what appeared to be a hunger she couldn't quite explain. One of them took a step toward her with a grin, a young red haired woman dressed as a nurse, before faltering and stepping back to her previous spot. Sunset didn't have much time to consider the reasons behind these actions as she felt a warm breath tickle the back of her neck. Spinning around she came face to face with a young woman, her hair an orange blond mix. She wore a purple kimono, complete with a red gem around her neck. Her eyes wandered from Sunset's lips, up to her currently red eyes.
"Hello there, that's an interesting...costume" She spoke softly, grinning at Sunset in a way that could best be described as playful. "Do you come to parties like this often?"
Sunset stared blankly for a few moments before the reality of this situation hit her. This was her chance to make a friend! "Oh, um...Thank you! Normally no, this is my first one. I'm not used to public get-togethers"
"Then you should stick with me, I'll protect you" The woman replied with a wink, grabbing her hand and leading her past the party-goers who originally took an interest in her. Only now they seemed to be avoiding looking in her direction, for some reason.
Sunset followed, not pulling her hand away as the young woman brought her to the nearby snack table aligned with small sandwiches and other finger foods. She reached down and took a small cup of punch, sipping on it as she looked back toward her new potential friend.
"Thank you. My name is Sunset Shimmer. I came to the party hoping to make some friends" she explained excitedly, offering the other woman a kind smile. She smirked at that, bringing her hands to her hips as she replied.
"Well look at you, all ready to go. This is a good place for that. Tell me, my dear, what made you decide to come as a vampire?"
Her eyes lit up with excitement as she asked Sunset the question.
Sunset shrugged "To be honest I've always found them fascinating. I remember reading about them when I was a foa...a child" She coughed, trying to mask her slip up. "The stories I found most interesting were the ones I read when I got older. About three powerful vampire sisters whom all other vampires and... humans feared. My teacher at the time wanted me to read about them and many other mythical creatures"
"Interesting subjects for a teacher to give to a student" The woman replied, a devious grin returning to her face. "Mind if I ask which of the sisters you found most interesting? I’ve never heard these stories before"
"They aren't locally known stories. Just something I brought with me from home. My teacher taught me a lot of different subjects beyond just that. Mathematics, History...Magic" She whispered that last part as she sipped her punch again, more so just to herself and so low there was no way her company could have heard it. However, Sunset was sure she saw a reaction from the other woman as if her grin grew just a tiny bit. "As for which sister I found most interesting? I suppose I would have to pick the leader. She was known as the Queen of the Vampire by some. Her name was Adagio. The most powerful of the vampire, only followed by her sisters Sonata and Aria in terms of strength"
The woman nodded at that "A queen does deserve love and recognition. It makes sense that you found her the most interesting"
"A queen deserves love and recognition when she has earned it from her followers," Sunset replied. "Adagio did not earn recognition through kindness or love for her followers. She earned the title through fear and raw power. While I hate to admit this, I was like her once. I suppose that's why I found her so interesting. I had this lust for power... It's something I'm rather ashamed of" She looked down at her cup in shame as she spoke.
"And what's wrong with that? Wanting power?" The woman asked. She reached out, her hand grasping Sunset's jaw, pulling her head up so that their eyes would meet. Sunset found herself looking into the other woman’s eyes for a long moment before breaking contact.
"What's wrong is the way I went about it. I believed power was the only way I could ever make somebody care about me. I was so desperate for friendship I would have forced everyone to accept me if I’d had my way. I'm happy to say I have friends now, and they showed me that the path I chose was wrong. I would like to be your friend too, miss"
"Gladly" The woman responded immediately. "You have this irresistible charm about you, Shimmer. Tell me, these friends of yours. Are they local? You mentioned the stories coming from home. I assume you hail from somewhere far away"
"I do, but I'd rather not get into that right now" Sunset deflected, knowing she couldn't go into detail about Equestria. "As for my friends, yes they are back home"
"So you're here all alone then? What a shame." The woman licked her lips before continuing. "During these parties, the hosts usually put together a little dance for all the guests. Would you dance with me, Sunset?"
Sunset smiled a little, nodding. "I don't mind, however, you still haven't told me your name."
"A surprise, for after the dance" She replied with a wink, offering her hand to Sunset as a soft melody began to play throughout the room. The woman took her to the center, one hand resting upon her hip, the other continuing to hold her hand, their fingers interlocking. Sunset placed her free hand upon the woman's shoulder and the two began to gently sway to the music. It became clear in seconds that Sunset had never danced before.
"Sorry" She embarrassingly whispered, trying her best not to stumble or throw off the rhythm shared between them. She felt bad enough for stepping on the poor woman's foot just a moment ago, her cheeks staining crimson from the humiliating action.
Her partner just chuckled, her hand sliding from Sunset's hip to her lower back. Slowly she pulled the two of them together, holding her there firmly as she softly spoke. "Relax dear, it's quite all right. Just follow my lead and enjoy yourself. You don't have to be perfect" she leaned in and rested her head on Sunset's shoulder then, continuing to sway to the gentle melody.
As the two danced, Sunset looked out at the rest of the party-goers. At first, everything seemed fine. But then she noticed several of the dancing couples had stopped in the middle of the song. One of the two having gone limp in their partner's arms. The color of their skin was much paler than she saw previously. In little time Sunset found that only she and her partner continued to dance, alarm bells screaming in her mind. Eyes flicking between the other dancers in an obvious panic, she noticed one duo, the woman's lips pressed to her limp partner's neck, blood trickling down from that very spot.
"I promised you my name, Shimmer" The woman whispered, her hot breath hitting Sunset's ear. She immediately tried to pull away as she felt the unexpected warmth but found herself held firmly against her partner's body. It was as if she was held by some unexplained force. The woman was holding her very gently, but despite this, she could barely move in her grasp.
Things started to click in Sunset's mind. Centuries before she was born Starswirl faced the vampire sisters and learned he did not possess the ability to defeat them. So using his magic he instead sent them to another world. Afterward, he sought out several other smaller vampire and also sent them away. This world, the human world, must have been where he sent them. Sunset's eyes once more darted around the room of vampires and their now dead partners.
Not only that, it explained many other things. The band's name, The Dazzlings. Adagio Dazzle was the leader. It explained why this woman was so excited by Sunset's costume. Why she asked Sunset her favorite of the sisters after she shared the story. Why she asked if she was alone here. Sweet Celestia Sunset told this woman her only friends were back in Equestria!
"Putting it together, Shimmer? I can feel how tense you are. Relax." She giggled, leaning her head into Sunset's neck, giving it a soft kiss. Sunset again tried to break free from the woman's grasp but to no avail.
This entire party was a trap! To lure in unsuspecting humans for the vampires to feed. And now Sunset was in the grasp of one. Even if she could break free, the room was filled with them, including the sisters. There was no way she could make it to the exit before she was swarmed.
Sunset could feel the woman's breath on her neck as she whispered her name. Her blood frosted in her veins as she heard it, and before Sunset could even respond she felt the fangs pierce her skin. This was Adagio Dazzle, Queen of the Vampire.
Sunset slowly opened her eyes to find herself snuggled under the sheets of a large and very comfortable bed. Daylight seeped in through the nearby windows, illuminating the spacious and unfamiliar room she currently occupied. It didn't take long for last night's events to slam into the forefront of her groggy mind.
She was alive? That surprised her, all things considered. As far as she could recall vampires only ever kept someone alive after biting them to force them into bringing more victims to their nest. After a vampire bite, the victim would be forced to do as the vampire ordered, often forced to bring family or friends to their doom. Sunset wasn't sure how the process worked, but she always imagined the idea of being enslaved to a vampire to be terrifying.
Ironic, Sunset thought sourly as she slowly reached up from under the sheets, placing her hand on the spot Adagio had bitten her. She could feel the unevenness of her skin where the fangs pierced her. She cursed inwardly, knowing not only that she was enslaved but also that she was marked, and that no matter how far she ran she couldn't escape Adagio's grasp. Being marked meant she could run halfway across the world and still be found if Adagio wished it. The only possible refuge she could find was a world away, back in Equestria. A world she couldn't reach for over two years.
Slowly Sunset sat up, looking around the large bedroom. The floor was made of granite, a brown patterned throw rug sitting at the foot of the bed. Across from her a large TV sat on the wall, with an elegant dresser directly beneath it. To her right, she saw three large windows, each with something sitting underneath. Beneath the middle sat a small desk with a laptop. The right held a small bookcase, filled with a plethora of leather-bound books. To the left there was a simple small table with a lamp. On the ceiling between the bed and TV hung a chandelier. On her left, she saw a small table and chair, where on top sat a silver tray covered by a lid and a glass filled with what appeared to be orange juice.
Looking down at herself Sunset felt the blood in the veins turn to ice once more. She wasn't dressed in the outfit she wore last night. Instead, she wore a set of blue silk pajamas. She took several deep breaths, trying to push aside the idea that Adagio or some other vampire changed her in her sleep. Instead, she got out of bed and walked over to the nearby table, lifting the lid to see what was underneath. She found two eggs over medium, pancakes, and hash browns. Looking at her reflection in the lid she could see that her skin wasn't pale like she assumed it would be. Instead, she had all her color, as if Adagio didn't drink enough to cause her any harm. Next to the tray was the glass of juice and a small note, folded in half that she didn't notice before. She picked it up, opening it and looking inside.
I hope you enjoy the breakfast I had prepared for you. When you are finished feel free to explore the manor if you wish. Aria and I will likely be asleep but Sonata is known to be awake during the early hours. If you need anything please go to her. My sisters have been informed of your stay and will treat you like family.
-Your Queen
With a sigh, Sunset set the note back down and looked at the tray of food. She was hungry and the food looked like it was safe to eat. If Adagio wanted to harm her she would be dead already. Picking up the utensils Sunset bit into the egg and saw it was still warm. She ate the food in silence, looking around the rest of the room. She saw two doors, each on different walls. One must lead out into the rest of the manor, the other leading to a bathroom or closet most likely.
Finishing her breakfast she stood and approached one of the doors, which indeed did open to a small bathroom. Stepping inside she could see a set of clothes folded atop the sink. A band t-shirt with the Dazzlings logo across the chest and a pair of shorts. As well as fresh undergarments and socks. All things considered, she did want a shower.
Slipping off her current attire she put them in a nearby basket she assumed was for dirty clothes. She then stepped into the shower, turning on the warm water and just letting it hit her, soothing her tense muscles. Eventually, she did wash her body and hair, stepping out and grabbing a nearby towel to dry off. As she put on the clothes that were left for her she found that they, just like the pajamas, fit her perfectly.
She left the bathroom and opened the other door, entering a small yet elegant hallway. Across from her door was another door, then a small gap that lead to a second-floor balcony. Sunset kept straight, seeing two more doors across from each other and a staircase leading downward. Following it down lead her back to somewhat familiar territory. While she hadn't come down this hall during last night's party, at the end of it sat the living room and kitchen area where the party was thrown.
The room was cleaned of all the previous night's party supplies. A couch sat in the middle of the room, facing a large TV mounted to the wall. Behind the couch, there was a small kitchen area and to the left of that a small Dining room table. Sitting on the couch was a young woman with blue hair, sipping from a cup as she watched television. Her eyes moved to take in Sunset as she entered the room, an innocent smile growing on her face.
"Sonata Dusk?" Sunset asked cautiously, recognizing her color pattern from the stories she’d be told as a foal.
"Mhmm, It's nice to meet you Sunset. Well nice to meet you when you're awake." Sonata giggled before continuing "You must be really special for Dagi to take a liking to so quickly! She's never kept anyone before. I wonder if its because you’re from Equestria like us! It is kind of refreshing"
"Hold on" Sunset responded quickly, "You said Adagio never kept anyone before. I would have imagined she used her ability to control bite victims to her advantage"
"Well duh," Sonata replied with a giggle "Almost all vampire have done that. But Dagi was clear to me and Aria that you were not to be harmed, and we haven’t controlled anyone like that in centuries anyway. She said she thought you were special and that we should treat you like family. I guess that makes us sisters!"
With that Sonata jumped up and ran to Sunset, wrapping her arms around her tightly. Sunset gulped nervously, despite the joyous smile spread across Sonata's face. She seemed almost harmless, an innocent and sweet woman to those who were naive. But Sunset knew the other side of that coin. To survive as long as she has she drank the life away from many innocent ponies and humans.
Sonata took Sunset's hand and lead her to the couch, sitting down and motioning for her to sit with her. Sunset did just that, looking to the cup Sonata had in her other hand.
"Leftovers from last night?" Sunset asked, feeling sick as the words left her mouth.
"No, not quite! This is pig and cows blood. We purchase it in large quanities from the local butcher!" Sonata replied as she sipped from the cup, either not picking up on how uncomfortable Sunset was or simply not caring.
"So you say Adagio said I was special?" Sunset changed topics, curious as to why Adagio did decide to keep her around.
"Mhmm, though I don't know anything more than that. What did you say to her?" Sonata asked with a bit of her own curiosity.
"I mostly stroked her ego" Sunset answered, grumbling as she did. "I wonder if that's why."
"Probably" Sonata agreed "Dagi loves complements. Just how thick of an ego-stroking did you give her?"
"Well.." Sunset began, squirming in her seat as she recalled the events from last night, "I didn't know who she was when we first met and I was desperate to find a friend. I was rambling about my past and about history lessons I learned back in Equestria. About you and your sisters"
Sonata nodded, motioning for Sunset to continue.
"In the history books, Adagio was nicknamed the Queen of the vampire. I also mentioned how she was the most powerful of her kind, and that I came to the party dressed as a vampire because I found her so interesting"
Sonata couldn't help but laugh as Sunset shared her account of the previous night. A mischievous grin spreading across her face.
"Oh my God, that's just great. You called her a Queen, praised her power, and told her she was your inspiration for last night's costume. No wonder she kept you! I can't wait for the wedding" She teased, sticking her tongue out playfully.
Sunset's eyes widened as she heard the words, her body going rigid. "Wedding?" She whispered, her voice filled with fear.
Sonatas grin fell from her lips as she watched Sunsets reaction, rolling her eyes. "It was a joke, relax. If Dagi is interested in you then she'll probably want to get to know you better, not jump into something like marriage. You're too tense"
"Can you blame me?" Sunset bit back "I didn't exactly choose to become Adagios slave! I just wanted to make some friends! I didn't want to be alone anymore.."
Sunset stopped talking as she scolded herself in her mind. She should’ve just stayed in Equestria, the horrible memories be damned, where she’d be safe and surrounded by her friends. She snapped back to the present as she felt Sonatas arm snake around her shoulders, pulling her closer. A warm and compassionate smile on her face.
"You're not alone, Sunset. You're my sister now. Even if things don't work out between you and Adagio I'd still like to be your friend. But let's try and think positively. I've never seen Adagio interested in anyone before. So it's nice to know that she might have found someone to call her own"
After their small conversation Sunset sat in silence, trying to watch the TV and get her mind off of everything. Sonata sat beside her with a smile, seeming to enjoy the company.
The next few hours flew by. Suddenly footsteps could be heard coming from down the hall, a young woman entering the room. Her hair a moderate purple with light aquamarine streaks. She gazed at Sunset with a small frown.
"Are the clothes comfortable?" She asked with an almost bored tone. Her arms crossed across her chest.
"Yes," Sunset answered, turning to look at her. "Are you the one who left them for me?"
Aria nodded "Yes, Speaking of which, when your finished goofing off with Sonata I left some outfits out for you on your bed. Adagio made it clear she'd like you to be ready when she wakes up"
"Wait, ready for what?" Sunset asked, causing Aria to raise her eyebrow.
"Adagio said you were smart. Think about it, Sunset. Why would she want you dressed before she wakes up? She plans to take you out for lunch."
"Like a date?" Sunset asked, feeling the nerves she managed to tame return to the surface.
Aria sighed, her face returning to a neutral expression. "Yes, like a date. I put out three outfits for you to select from. I'm sure at least one of them will match your style"
With that, she began to walk past the two of them. Sunset stood abruptly, keeping her eyes on Aria as she did.
"Wait!" She called out with a raised voice, causing Aria to stop and turn back to her. "I didn't agree to any of this! Why does Adagio want to take me on a date? Why did she keep me? All I can do is speculate, and even then I don't know enough to know if my assessment is correct. I need answers!"
The vampire rolled her eyes, her voice full of indifference as she replied. "I'm sure many bite victims didn't care for the things we made them do. Be grateful for Adagio's kindness. I've never seen her keep anyone after biting them. Let alone put them in a guest room and offer them expensive clothing."
"Just because she's pampering me doesn't make me any less her slave!" Sunset bitterly replied, squeezing her hands into fists. She felt anger bubble in her chest at Aria's clear disinterest. "Besides, she can easily change her mind at any second and kill me if she wanted"
Aria looked less than impressed, walking over and poking Sunset's chest. Leaning in close as she replied. "Yes, she could. But I doubt she will. Adagio hasn't told me much, however, it's clear to me that she is genuinely interested in you. Even Sonata sees it. Not to mention the fact that we haven’t killed anyone in centuries. So go upstairs and pick an outfit for your date. If you have questions then ask the source. I only know as much as Adagio told me"
With that, she swiftly turned and walked away, leaving the two alone as she slammed a door behind her. Sunset stood in silence for a moment before taking a deep breath in an attempt to relax. She opened her hands and turned around, jumping back with a startled scream as she came face to face with a concerned Sonata.
"Sweet Celestia! I didn't know you were standing that close" She said, putting her hand to her chest as she tried to calm her racing heart. Sonata giggled, a smile returning to her face as she replied.
"Don't worry about Aria too much. She's always been a sour puss"
"I heard that!" she yelled from the other room with a hint of anger.
"You were supposed to!" Sonata shot back.
“Wait a moment...Aria just said you haven’t killed anyone in centuries, yet I saw your friends murder all of those innocent victims at last nights party!” Sunset yelled, pointing at Sonata with a look of certainty. The blue haired girl just waved her off, giggling softly.
“None of them died, Sunset. We just feed from them, then hypnotize them and send them home. Most wake up the next morning with no memory of the feeding. We don’t take enough to cause any lasting damage.”
Before she could reply Sonata took Sunset's hand in her own, leading her back towards the staircase. "Now come on, I want to see the different outfits Aria picked out for you!"
As the two entered the bedroom it didn't take Sunset long to select an outfit. Aria was right when she said one of them would most likely fit her style. She stepped out of the bathroom in a light blue form fitting short dress with dark blue leggings. She had her heeled boots back, as well as her leather jacket, which complimented the attire. Sonata sat on the edge of Sunset's bed, watching her as she entered the room.
"Wow," she spoke softly, looking Sunset up and down as she brought her hands together in wonder, "you look stunning. I know Adagio will be pleased"
"Great" Sunset replied with little enthusiasm. Sonata gave her a sad smile.
"Give her a chance," she begged, standing and walking over to the redhead and taking her hands into her own. "Dagi is really great when you get to know her better. Why not try and enjoy yourself?"
"Because this whole thing is being forced on me," Sunset replied, raising her head to look Sonata in the eyes. "I came to the party to make friends, not to be enslaved to a vampire. Ponies and humans value our freedom. We don't like belonging to someone else. How would you feel if you were told you belonged to another person, and you were forced to go on a date with them?"
"You're being too negative" Sonata replied with a grin "you got what you came for because I'm your friend. You told me yourself you didn't want to be alone anymore. Well, now you have me, Aria and Dagi. Plus if you're as lonely as you claim to be wouldn't it be nice to go out on a date, maybe get yourself a girlfriend? Besides, while you may belong to Dagi she has been nothing but caring thus far, and if after the date you two don’t hit it off I am sure she will release you."
She gave her a wink, giggling as a small blush stained Sunset's cheeks.
"Why does she even want to date me? Aren't I just food to her? Aren't I just food to you?" Sunset asked.
Sonata shook her head "Dagi wouldn't have kept you if she thought you were just food silly. She even told us you were special, remember? Not to harm you and such. Also, I wouldn't call you sister or friend if you were just food to me"
"But why? Why am I so special? She doesn't even know me. You don't even know me. It can't just be that I complimented her, there's more to it all." Sunset said quietly.
"Why am I so nice to you despite barely knowing you? You're important to Adagio, so you're important to me. And I can see what she may have seen in you. Your kind of charming you know" Sonata replied.
"Adagio said the same thing at the party" Sunset said low as a whisper.
"See? You wear your heart on your sleeve. I can tell what kind of person you are right away, as I'm sure Dagi did too. She must have seen something she liked. Maybe that's why she kept you. We can't know her reasons unless you ask her. Besides she's just wanting to take you on a date, get to know you better. Nothing too extravagant. Just relax and try to have fun!"
Sunset sighed again, turning from Sonata and hugging herself. The argument was pointless, though she already knew that. No matter what she said or did they would continue to push her to give Adagio a chance. Again she knew that. They were Adagio's sisters, they were vampires, of course they would side with her.
Sunset was afraid. Afraid of what Adagio planned to do with her. Afraid of why she kept her and if this was all some ploy. Afraid she would never truly be free again.
But what scared her the most was that, deep down, some of Sonata's words made sense to her. If she had the Dazzlings in her life she wouldn't be alone anymore. She would have sisters, and a girlfriend, both something she never experienced before.
What was it that scared Sunset the most? The fear of being enslaved to a vampire, of having her freedom ripped from her and not knowing the real reasons why? Or was it that deep down maybe, just maybe, she wanted to get to know Adagio too.
As her fangs pierced through Sunset's smooth skin she could feel the young woman struggling in her grasp like a fly trapped in a spider’s web. She could smell the terror radiating from her every pore, moisture forming in her eyes as she released a labored breath. She truly believed she was going to die, although Adagio had no intention of harming her.
Pulling back she gave the bite mark a gentle lick. Sunset's breath hitched, her hands shaking and her body growing tense. Looking at her it was clear she was on the verge of a full blown panic attack. Unable to bear this any longer Adagio leaned closer to her ear, humming a soft melody. Slowly Sunset's body began to relax, her heart rate slowing to normal as she calmly leaned against her.
"Looks like your under my spell," Adagio said with a giggle, reaching up and running her fingers through her partners fiery red and yellow hair. Sunset staring back with empty eyes, unaware of anything going on due to the hypnosis.
Adagio rested her hands on Sunset's back once more, just holding her for a while. It felt nice, she had to admit. She never held someone like this before. Sunset just continued to lean against her, staring mindlessly ahead.
What was it about Sunset that made Adagio not want to hurt her? What made her want to stay here and hold her like this?
She certainly was attractive, Adagio couldn't deny that about her. It was cute how she came in enthusiastically looking for friends, sharing information that shouldn't be shared with complete strangers because of nerves or inexperience.
Sunset's interest in her was nice too, as was the adorable vampire costume. To think someone found her so interesting that they decided to dress as her species. She called her queen too, that was quite lovely.
Perhaps it was because she also came from Equestria. She could smell the difference about her the moment she walked into her home, as could the other vampires no doubt. It had been a long time since she saw another Equestrian besides her sisters and the others. She looked around the room to see most of the vampire sending the bitten and hypnotized humans on their way. Her eyes eventually landed on Sonata, who seemed to be watching her with a big goofy smile. Bringing her focus back to Sunset she continued to think to herself about why this girl felt so special to her in such a small amount of time.
How had she gotten here from Equestria anyway? She mentioned a lust for power, had she been banished? She also mentioned friends. Did she redeem herself only to still be banished due to her wrongdoings? This was something Adagio knew she needed to ask.
A queen deserves love and recognition when she has earned it from her followers. Adagio did not earn recognition through kindness or love for her followers. She earned the title through fear and raw power. While I hate to admit this, I was like her once. I suppose that's why I found her so interesting. I had this lust for power...
And what's wrong with that? Wanting power?
What's wrong is the way I went about it. I believed power was the only way I could ever make somebody care about me. I was so desperate for friendship I would have forced everyone to accept me if I'd had my way. I'm happy to say I have friends now, and they showed me the path I was on was wrong. I would like to be your friend too, miss
Ah, now she was getting somewhere. As she replayed the words Sunset spoke not five minutes ago that same feeling deep within her heart resurfaced. Looking at Sunset now made her feel like she was looking into a mirror. She'd lived for centuries and the only ones she cared about were Sonata and Aria. Sunset was right, the other vampires only respected her due to her power over them. Because they were afraid of her. They weren't sisters, weren't friends. She didn't have any friends.
For centuries the only love Adagio ever felt was from her sisters. Never the love a friend could give, or even better the love of a girlfriend. Placing a hand on Sunset's cheek she began to realize just how badly she wanted to experience that.
Thinking back this wasn't a new feeling either. Having been alive for so long these feelings of loneliness began to eat up at her centuries ago, but she never stopped to think about what those feelings meant, nor did she share this information with her sisters. However, by some stroke of luck or fate, she didn't know which, Sunset came to this party and said the right words to help her realize what those feelings were.
She knew what needed to be done. She and Sunset were both lonely, they could fill in the holes the other felt in their heart. Of course, she would need to get to know Sunset better, she barely knew her. However in the short time they spent together Adagio could tell a lot about her, and it was all things she liked. If anything the idea of getting to know the real Sunset Shimmer excited her.
"A date," Adagio said aloud, grinning at the redhead in her arms. She placed a finger under Sunset's jaw, raising her head so that they would be looking at each other. "A lunch date to be exact. It will allow us to get to know each other better. You really charmed me, Shimmer. That's something to be proud of"
Taking Sunset's hand in her own she lead her across the room, approaching her sister. Sonata was still smiling at her, her hands clasped behind her back as she waited for the two of them to arrive. Once there she looked around the room for Aria, waving her over once she spotted her.
"Sonata, Aria, I need you to do a few things for me" She spoke softly, squeezing Sunset's hand. Something both sisters noticed, causing the smile on Sonata's face to grow larger. A small smirk came to Aria's.
"This is Sunset Shimmer. She's very special to me and she is not to be harmed. Sonata, I want you to go make the guest room for her. Aria, would you go out and buy her some clothes? Specifically sleepwear and something for tomorrow, including some options for a lunch date."
"Ma'am yes ma'am" Sonata replied playfully, putting on a serious look and saluting Adagio before turning and heading upstairs.
Aria simply chuckled, looking from Adagio to Sunset with curiosity. "She's from Equestria, I can smell it. I wonder how she got here"
"I plan to ask her tomorrow, on our lunch date" Adagio replied.
"Why not ask her now?" Aria questioned.
It was true that as long as Sunset remained under Adagio's hypnosis she would answer any questions asked truthfully. She could use this to get to know everything about Sunset now. But it didn't sit right with her. If she was to potentially be her girlfriend she shouldn't take advantage of her like that.
Technically due to the bite, she could order her to tell her outside of hypnosis as well, but again the idea didn't sit well with her.
"I don't want to treat her like some mindless drone. I'd like to get to know her, the traditional way" Adagio answered, pulling Sunset closer.
Aria's grin grew a little more, her hands moving to her hips. "Are you telling me our fearsome leader finally found someone she's interested in? After all these centuries?"
"Maybe I have," Adagio began, looking into Aria's eyes "which is exactly why I want to make her comfortable"
Aria stared back, nodding "I see. Well, the guests should be leaving soon. Once they are gone ill go out and get her something"
"Pick up some food as well, so she can have breakfast when she wakes up. No red meats, remember she's from Equestria. If she found bacon or ham on her plate I think it would make her sick"
"I've got it Adagio, stop worrying so much. Now if you'll excuse me" Rolling her eyes Aria stepped away, approaching the other guests and escorting them from the party. Sonata returned then, informing Adagio that Sunset's room was ready. As the final guest left, Aria turned to walk into the three-car garage, which could be entered from a doorway at the end of the hall.
For the time being Adagio sat Sunset on the couch, working together with Sonata to clean up the remaining party supplies that lay scattered about. While they didn't do these parties often, every time they did no vampire left hungry. Thinking of Sunset she put the remaining punch and finger foods in the fridge.
As they were finishing up Aria returned with a handful of bags. She immediately went into the kitchen, pulling out several different foods to place in the fridge and freezer. Adagio walked over, taking the other bags and looking inside. She saw several different sleeping outfits and other clothes for a long term stay.
"When I returned I noticed a lone motorcycle sitting in the driveway. I figure it must be Sunset's so I pulled it into the garage for her" Aria said "It has a custom made decal on the back, a red and yellow sun. I wonder if it's her cutie mark. It matches her hair"
"I'll have to take a look later" Adagio replied "Thank you for getting these"
With that she turned from Aria, signaling for Sonata to follow her as she returned to Sunset. The three went upstairs and entered the guest room, Sonata taking some of the bags and folding the clothes, putting them into the drawers across from the bed.
Adagio took one set of clothes and put them into the bathroom. She figured Sunset may not check the drawers upon waking up, and seeing the clothes in here signified she could use the shower at her leisure. She returned to the bedroom, laying a set of blue silk pajamas out on the bed.
"Sonata" Adagio began, looking over to her as she spoke "I know you wake up earlier than Aria and I. Would you cook breakfast for Sunset?"
"No problem" Sonata replied with barely contained excitement. Adagio couldn't help but smile at her younger sister's obvious glee. She didn't expect Sonata or Aria to care as much as they seemed to when it came to her love life, especially considering she never had one before. Both seemed willing to accept Sunset, Sonata specifically seemed overjoyed by the whole thing. It touched her heart how much her sisters cared about her.
Once the two finished putting up the clothes Adagio turned to Sunset, who had been sitting quietly, staring into space the whole time. She approached her, kneeling in front of her and taking her hand into her own.
"Sonata and I are done and it is getting late." she said softly "Once we leave I want you to change and get some sleep. Fold what you're currently wearing and leave it outside your door. I will come back later to collect it."
"Yes, mistress" Sunset replied robotically.
Adagio couldn't help the small playful grin that came to her lips, wanting to tease Sunset a little. "I think 'my queen' sounds better than mistress, don't you?"
"Yes, my queen" Sunset replied without a second thought.
Adagio giggled softly, turning to leave beside Sonata. She walked to the doorway, turning to Sunset one more time before leaving.
"Goodnight Sunset" she spoke softly, winking as she closed the door behind her.
The buildings, trees, and passing scenery flew by as Sunset sat quietly in the passenger seat of Adagio's car. While she tried to focus on them her mind was far too distracted by the events of the last few hours. Even now she found it hard to process it all. She sat with the long time banished Queen of the vampire, Adagio Dazzle, on a date of all things. While she enjoyed the stories about her she never expected to meet the vampiress, let alone to survive the encounter if she did. Yet here she sat, and worst of all a part of her mind liked the idea.
She turned her head to take in the driver, her eyes wandering across her purple dress, up to her hair. She clearly put some time into her appearance for this date. She wondered how Twilight would feel, knowing she made friends with at least one of the legendary sisters, and would possibly become the girlfriend of another.
Adagio's gaze turned to her, a feral grin spreading across her face as she caught Sunset watching her. Quickly averting her gaze she turned back to the window, squeezing at the hem of her short dress with nervousness.
"Something on your mind, Shimmer? Me, perhaps?" Adagio spoke with an air of clear playfulness in her voice.
"I noticed you seem to really like the color purple. Your dress is purple, as was the kimono you wore last night" Sunset answered, turning back to her. She would face this head-on, she decided. Who knows, maybe something could work out between her and Adagio. As much as she tried to deny what Sonata told her, a part of her did want to try.
"I suppose I do," Adagio replied, her gaze drifting back to the road.
They lapsed back into silence, much like most of the drive into town. When Adagio finally awoke she simply told Sunset that she hoped she had slept well and complimented her on her dress. But beyond that, the two hadn't spoken much. Sunset decided to break that silence. This had been bothering her since she woke up.
"Adagio, I have to know. Did you change me in my sleep?"
There was a hint of clear discomfort in her tone, Adagio noticed. Though she would expect nothing less, considering the situation.
"No, I used hypnosis on you. While you were under I brought you to your room, told you to change, and to get some sleep." she replied, putting up a hand as Sunset opened her mouth to reply, cutting her off. "And don't worry, I do not plan to hypnotize you again in the future. I simply didn't want you to have a panic attack"
Sunset seemed to relax at that, a small bit of tension leaving her body. Adagio smiled, hoping by the end of the date she would feel completely relaxed around her.
It didn't take long to reach the intended destination from there. A small cafe in the middle of town, surrounded by other small local businesses and the park which housed the portal to Equestria, which made Sunset feel a little nervous.
"I thought you would enjoy this place, seeing as you're a pony I know you likely don't eat the meats offered in most dishes. I hear the salads here are quite large and filling. I admittedly don't know much on vegetarian diets, so I hope this was a good selection for you." Adagio offered, getting out of the car and walking over to Sunset's side, opening the door for her.
"I've eaten here before, the food is good. I actually live right down the road" she replied, getting out of the car. Sunset knew due to being marked Adagio would find her no matter where she ran, so she might as well be honest about where she lived. The two sat outside at a small table, Sunset ordering the Greek Salad.
Once alone Adagio leaned in, her eyes gazing into Sunsets with interest. "I know we both have questions, so why don't we get started. You said you studied magic, so I assume you're a Unicorn?"
"I am," Sunset answered, biting back her nerves. "My magic is what I miss most about Equestria, besides my friends."
Adagio nodded "You mentioned having friends, but you also mentioned a lust for power. Were you banished?"
Sunset became stiff, her eyes darting to the park and then back to Adagio. Her body language made it clear she did not want to answer this question. With a soft sigh, Adagio leaned forward in her chair, reaching out with her hand to place it over the back of Sunsets. She hesitated a moment, slowly lowering it until the two touched. She heard Sunset swallow hard, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze.
"Listen, I want you to be honest with me. I have no desire to harm you, or anyone else. I am genuinely interested in you, Shimmer. Don't be afraid to answer me. My sisters and I have mellowed out quite a bit over the years. We feast to survive, not because we enjoy hurting others, and we even make sure not to take enough to cause them lasting harm. Besides, if I really wanted to I could simply order you to tell me everything, or hypnotise you once more. I am making a genuine effort here"
Sunset appeared apprehensive, seeming to debate with herself if she should take Adagio at her word. She gave Sunset time, smiling a little as she spoke softly after a few minutes.
"I was the student of Princess Celestia. I betrayed her in search of power, believing I needed it to make friends. In reality all power would have given me was the ability to force ponies to stay by my side. You can't force friendship, which Twilight and our friends showed me when I tried to steal her crown. Ultimately I chose to come back here, I have too many bad memories in Equestria. Although it's a lot more lonely"
Adagio's eyes widened at this. If she understood Sunset correctly she had come and gone more than once.
"Are you telling me there's a way back and forth between the two worlds?"
A meek nod from Sunset answered that question. Adagio was stunned. To think there was a way back to Equestria this entire time. Not that she cared to use it now, however centuries ago she likely would have returned in search of revenge. That fear was painted clearly on Sunset's face. It seems despite Adagio's earlier attempt to appease her fear, it hadn't completely worked.
"Relax Sunset, I meant what I said. My sisters and I are not interested in returning to Equestria. We quite enjoy it here"
A small nod was what she got in return. At this time the salad was brought out to Sunset, so she slowly began to eat. Her eyes remained on Adagio as she did.
"So" Adagio began, grinning at her "the student of a princess. How lucky I am, to be on a date with someone so famous"
Sunset shook her head "I'm not her student anymore, so it doesn't matter"
"It does too" Adagio shot back "She picked you, Shimmer. You must have shown great potential. You're clearly intelligent, and I'm sure you are very skilled with your magic. I wonder if you could have defeated me, had we been in Equestria"
She grinned again, her playful tone returning as she watched Sunset. Sunset herself couldn't help the small smile that graced her features, looking up from her food to fully take in Adagio.
"I wouldn't go that far, but thanks. Um, why are you so interested in me? I've theorized about it since I woke up. First, I thought you'd keep me around as food, but then Sonata and I talked and I began to believe there was another reason. Was it because I complimented you, called you a queen?"
Adagio's grin grew as she responded "That was rather nice, but no. There are many things about you that I like, such as the fact that you're also from Equestria. I find you rather attractive too. But the real reason I wanted to get to know you better was that you helped me realize how lonely I am. Seeing as you're lonely too I had hoped we could be there for each other. Help each other fill in the others gaps. If we don't work out in a relationship then maybe we can do the same as friends. Whatever your comfortable with, Shimmer"
A small blush stained Sunset's cheeks as she listened to Adagio talk. It hadn't been because of something as selfish or vain as simply enjoying her compliments. She found her attractive, she wanted them both to feel less lonely. She finally sat back, letting go of the last bit of tension and fear. Sure, maybe Adagio wasn't telling the truth, but something was telling Sunset that she was genuine. If Adagio wanted to hurt her, to force the truth from her, she would have done so. Instead, the two sat, Adagio giving her time to answer the questions and taking them as honest. Finally, a genuine smile spread across Sunset's face as she turned her hand around in Adagio's grasp, taking her hand in her own. She would give this a try, for both of them.
Sunset squeezed Adagio's hand as the two walked down the familiar street, a soft blush staining her cheeks. Having just finished her salad at the cafe Sunset decided to show Adagio her apartment, the latter paying for the meal and following after the fiery redhead. Her blush grew as Adagio laced their fingers, tightening her hold of Sunset's hand.
"We're here" she announced, nodding to the small apartment complex in front of them. Adagio frowned, looking thoroughly unimpressed as she followed her upstairs, the two soon stopping in front of the third door on the right. Reaching into her bag Sunset procured her keys, sliding them into the lock and opening the door so the two of them may enter.
The apartment was small and clearly cheap, Adagio noticed with growing disdain. The living room consisted of a couch, a tv, and her personal laptop which sat on the coffee table. The laptop was currently closed, with a decal of a red and yellow sun sitting proudly on top. It was the same one Adagio saw on Sunsets bike before they left this morning.
"Your cutie mark?" Adagio asked, gesturing to the laptop with her free hand. Sunset turned to regard it for a moment, then nodded.
"Oh, yeah. I had them custom made"
That answered that question. Looking around the rest of the small space she found the living room was connected to the kitchen, which housed a microwave and a small corner table, as well as a few cabinets for storing food or dishes. How did Sunset live in this cramped apartment for so long? She spotted another doorway, one that likely led to the bedroom with a connected bath. Or at least she hoped it had a connected bath.
"This is barbaric" Adagio hissed, soon turning to face Sunset who unlaced their hands and approached her laptop. She turned to her as she sat on the couch, shrugging her shoulders.
"This is all I can afford. I only work as a waitress down at the malt shop. I don't make nearly enough to live as lavishly as you and your sisters" Sunset replied honestly. Adagio scoffed at the idea.
"Well, it's a good thing you're dating someone with more than enough money and space in her home for you to stay too. Pack your things, Shimmer. I refuse to let you sleep in this competition for a cardboard box for another night"
"It isn't that bad" Sunset defended weakly, "I mean, it has heating at least"
"It has heating? Never mind then, this place is clearly fit for royalty" Adagio replied with obvious sarcasm, gesturing around the room with her hand. Sunset rolled her eyes.
"I'm not royalty" she stated bluntly.
"You are a student to Princess Celestia-"
"Former student" Sunset quickly corrected, cutting Adagio off. The woman pressed on regardless.
"Semantics. Besides, you are currently dating a Queen. That certainly makes you royalty in my eyes"
Sunset sighed, a small smirk coming to her lips.
"You sure love calling yourself that"
"Because it's the truth" Adagio playfully responded, finally walking over and taking a seat next to the fiery woman with whom she hoped she could make a lasting relationship.
"And if things don't work out between us?" Sunset asked softly.
"Then I'd still rather you stay with my sisters and me. As I said before, if things don't work out romantically I'd still like to be your friend. Come on, Shimmer, I'm already here to help you, and my sisters are just a call away. Won't you let us?"
Sunset's mind harkened back to Equestria, to her friends offering to help her in a similar way. She had let them, so how could she possibly turn away Adagio and her sisters now?
"Fine," She reluctantly agreed, "But we won't need the others. I don't have much"
Sunset stood from the couch, making her way past Adagio, and through the doorway, the vampiress assumed lead into her bedroom. She waited for only a moment, opening her mouth to ask if Sunset needed assistance, but closed it as she soon returned with the items she went to collect. She set them on the couch next to her, reaching over and grabbing her laptop along with her small collection of movies, stuffing them into her bag. Adagio glanced down at the handful of items Sunset brought from the bedroom, first picking up a book and reading the title with interest.
"Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone?"
"It was a gift from Rainbow Dash. She wanted me to read it, so we could talk about it when I return to Equestria in two years" Sunset answered, "She promised to have the full set for me by then"
"You should tell her about Indiana Jones," Adagio said, noticing the DVD collection in Sunset's hand before she placed them in her bag. Sunset chuckled and nodded her agreement.
"If I can get them to come over to this side I'll have a watch along with them"
Adagio grinned, turning back to the small pile of items. First, she picked up a scarf, its colors matching Sunset's hair. Then a half-empty bottle of apple cider. More gifts from her friends back in Equestria, she assumed. Next, she picked up a small picture frame, inside sat a photograph of Sunset and six colorful ponies, along with a baby dragon. The ever regal Princess of the sun sat off to one corner, smiling down at all of them with obvious pride.
"You look so happy," Adagio said, smiling down at the picture as she felt a warmth in her heart. Sunset sat beside her once more, placing her now overly stuffed bag and the few items she grabbed beside her.
"I was. For the first time in my life, I didn't feel alone anymore. I had friends, and I made up with Princess Celestia. I knew that at least in one world I didn't have to rely on nobody but myself"
Reaching over Adagio took both of her hands in her own, meeting her eyes as she leaned in, pulling the two of them closer together, prompting another blush from the redhead.
"I promise you, Sunset. No matter where you go, be it this world or Equestria, my sisters and I will always be here for you too. You will never be alone again"
