//------------------------------// // Chapter Nine // Story: Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer // by ConningOfficer //------------------------------// “Slow down, Fluttershy!” shouted Sunset Shimmer as the van’s wheels squealed around a corner. Both hands wrestling the steering wheel, she squeaked, “I’m sorry! Are you okay?” Aria Blaze grumbled, “I’ll live. I didn’t need that shoulder anyway.” After being tossed from one end of the back seat to another, she massaged a bruised deltoid. “All this excitement must be distracting me,” Fluttershy said, brushing a lock of pink hair out of her face while dodging a jaywalking pedestrian. While concentrating on the street and maintaining the van’s speed, Fluttershy involuntarily allowed a sliver of her tongue to escape the corner of her mouth. Sunset cried, “No vehicular homicide today! I’m sure that wasn’t in my plans when the sun came up!” She braced herself against the dashboard as the vehicle went airborne over a set of train tracks. A series of loud bangs from the back of the van indicated that Sunset Shimmer’s belongings had shifted while in flight. Canterlot was a sizable city and the aquarium was on the opposite side of town from Sunset Shimmer’s apartment. The three girls had been cooped up in the ancient van for about a half-hour, spending most of the ride in silence. Over the past five minutes, it became clear that the closer they got to the Sirens’ no-longer-hidden lair, the more erratic Fluttershy’s driving became. Following Aria’s directions, they made their way around the aquarium. They passed two curious television news vans that were parked at the front entrance. Fluttershy crookedly parked the lime green van in a loading dock behind the huge building. “Aria? Um, do you think she’s here?” Fluttershy asked, obviously inquiring about Adagio Dazzle. Aria centered herself on the bench and squeezed her voluminous pigtails between the driver and passenger seats. She proposed a plan to Fluttershy and Sunset Shimmer. “How’s this? I’ll go in first, and you both follow me a little way behind. One corner behind should be enough,” she said. “I want my stuff back,” Sunset Shimmer said angrily, clenching her fists. “I have a score to settle with Adagio. I’m not going to let her hurt me again.” “Um, I’m not so sure that a fight is going to solve anything right now, Sunny,” advised Fluttershy. Sunset Shimmer’s been all over the map today. We’ve got to get her to calm down before she makes this worse, Aria thought. Aloud she added, “She’s not worth it. If we surprise her, we need to get her to slip up so we can learn something about what she has planned. If I see her alone, I’ll do the same. Adagio doesn’t know about my change of heart so she might tell me more if I ask.” Sunset Shimmer continued to fidget with her leather jacket. She clenched and unclenched her fists several times. Noticing the nervous energy, Aria nearly climbed into the passenger seat to look Sunset in the eyes. She said, “Sunset, we all need you to calm down. I need you to calm down. The most important thing is to get what’s left of my pendant, get out of here, and wait for Twilight’s friend to arrive.” “Okay,” she grudgingly replied, crossing her arms. The three girls exited the van, which Fluttershy carefully locked before following Sunset Shimmer and Aria to the loading dock’s entrance. “Remember, stay at least one turn behind me. My hearing is better than yours and I can see well in the dark. Adagio can, too.” Even in the middle of the day, the bowels of the building were eerily quiet. The lights were on in the shipping and receiving office, but there was no sign of any work being done. Aria opened a door to a narrow, damp maintenance corridor and disappeared inside. Fluttershy hid behind Sunset Shimmer, who watched the pigtails disappear into the dim, flickering passageway. They leapfrogged one turn at a time, not encountering a single living soul. Aria Blaze’s body language changed substantially as she led the trio deeper into the aquarium. She crouched close to the ground, treaded silently despite her fashionable boots, felt the walls and floor with her hands, and frequently cocked her head in the direction of every faint noise she heard. Sunset Shimmer could hear Fluttershy’s breathing, but was pleased that she had gathered some courage and walked on her own, without being draped all over the expensive leather jacket. The air was humid and smelled of salt. Stained concrete created illusions, and pumps clanked and whirred without warning. Her mind wandered, thinking of Aria’s former Master. The image of black tentacles infused with evil magic reaching for her formed in her imagination. Sunset’s heart began to race. “Psst!” Aria hissed, returning Sunset’s mind to reality. The Siren’s purple eyes faintly glowed from a deep shadow thirty yards ahead. She motioned for the other two girls to come forward. “I don’t think Adagio’s here,” she whispered to Fluttershy and Sunset. “Just to be safe, we’re taking the back way in. Hold my hand. There’s no light in this last part.” Single file and gripping one another, they squeezed past machinery and thick pipes until suddenly they found themselves in a cozy circular room with a small camping lantern burning on top of a used kitchen table. The Sirens’ lair was surprisingly well-appointed. It held an easy chair, two bedrolls, the kitchen table and chairs, a few books, many blankets, a camping stove, and plenty of non-perishable food and drink. Brightly colored, hand painted bed sheets hung on the walls. Each one depicted a shoreline, seascape or an underwater scene, presumably from places the three songstresses had visited in the past. “I can guess who is responsible for the decorating,” said Sunset Shimmer, pinching the fabric of a sheet that showed majestic cliffs, crashing waves, and a sun just above the horizon. The painting was skillfully crafted, despite the relatively inexpensive fabric and paint used. “I think you’re in for a surprise, Sunset. Adagio made all of these with a little bit of help from Sonata.,” Aria replied. “That girl made something so beautiful?” asked Fluttershy. She looked closely at an underwater scene depicting an enormous building surrounded by a jagged fence. “They’re pretty, but this one gives me chills,” she continued. “That’s the palace where Adagio grew up,” said Aria and then quickly shifted subjects. “Listen, if we’re going to stop her, you need to understand her a little bit. Adagio must always be in charge. The fact that your magic broke her confidence and took that sense of control from her probably explains a lot of what’s been going on. Adagio’s ruthless, she’s manipulative and she’s often horrible to me and Sonata. But all this,” she waved a purple-tinted hand, “always made me think she just wanted to get home and go back to the way things were before we were changed.” Sunset Shimmer nodded, sneering at the homemade art and angrily spat, “Yeah, she’s homesick for all the slave labor and expendable flunkies you told me about. What I wonder now is what Adagio is willing to do to get herself home. Let’s take a closer look around.” It didn’t take long to discover that Sonata’s meager possessions hadn’t been disturbed since she fled after Adagio’s assault on her. Aria walked over to her bedroll and began to gather her small pile. As Sunset Shimmer orbited the room with Fluttershy, they didn’t find any evidence of Adagio’s presence. There wasn’t a third bedroll, nor was there a separate stack of personal possessions. Fluttershy continued to be skittish. She whispered to Sunset, “Slave labor? I don’t understand. This is really starting to scare me, Sunny.” “I can’t tell you everything right now, but I learned that the Sirens come from a very different Equestria than I did. Twilight told me that things are much better now than they were when the Sirens first came here,” Sunset said, not able to calm her timid friend. Zipping up her leather jacket as protection from the damp chill, Sunset Shimmer looked closely at the lantern glowing on the used kitchen table. Something seemed wrong about it. “It’s sitting crookedly on the cloth,” Sunset said to herself. She moved the lantern and removed the sheet that was being used as a makeshift tablecloth. Sunset shimmer growled softly in surprise and anger. Sitting on the table were two of the three disposable cell phones from her apartment, two small stacks of hundred-dollar bills and two notes from Adagio. Sunset Shimmer called across the room, “Aria, could you please take a look at this?” Stuffing some clothes in a rucksack, she replied, “I’ll be right there!” The trio unfolded the first note and read together: Aria, Where are you? I need to find you. I know that farmgirl couldn’t have been too much trouble, and you’re far too smart to get caught. I’ve found some unexpected help, but I can’t write about it here. We might be able to get home after all, but you might need to get me out of what I’ve stumbled into. Use the phone, compliments of Sunset Shimmer, to contact me. My number is in it. I also relieved her conscience of some ill-gotten gains, which I’m sure you can put to good use. I worry that I need you to guard me again, just like before we crossed the sea. My new friend told me that the Master continues to wait for our return and I want to believe her. Adagio Frowning at the note, Aria said, “I don’t like this. Hold on. I need to know what she told Sonata.” Aria unfolded the second note and she, Sunset Shimmer and Fluttershy read it together. Sonata, All is forgiven. Come back to me and we’ll paint a new picture together. I’ll even let you try on my crown while we work. My number is in the phone and use Sunset Shimmer’s money to buy a gift for yourself. Don’t displease the Master. Adagio Aria refolded Sonata’s note and put it back in place. She added the note and the phone to her rucksack, then frowned and placed her hands on her hips. “Something is very wrong,” said Aria Blaze, drumming her fingers. “The note to me is straightforward enough, but she has never said nor written anything like that to Sonata. It’s way too nice for Adagio.” “She’s scared,” said Fluttershy, tapping the folded note on the table. “What?” asked Sunset Shimmer and Aria Blaze in unison. Brushing a lock of pink hair away from her turquoise eyes, Fluttershy explained, “I know all about being scared and wanting to run. I don’t think this new friend of hers is really a friend at all.” “I can buy the scared part. The difference between the note she left me, which is what I’d expect from Adagio Dazzle, and these two notes is huge,” said Sunset. “Assuming you’re right, what frightened her?” Aria was also confused and added, “If we were on the verge of being discovered, we’d pack up and move on to another place. Adagio would figure out where to go. The loss of our powers must have screwed her up worse than it did Sonata and me. Come to think of it, we’ve never spent this much time as individuals making our own decisions since becoming Sirens.” “No wonder she seems frightened. I almost feel sorry for her,” said Fluttershy. “I wouldn’t go that far, Flutters. I can’t feel pity for her right now, not after what she did in my apartment,” replied Sunset Shimmer. “Let’s get out of here and capitalize on your hot beverage plan,” said Aria with a tiny smile at Fluttershy. “Cocoa for you and coffee for me.” She walked over to her bedroll to get a couple final items. Sunset Shimmer moved to follow her, eager to help and more eager to get out of the aquarium. Something still just felt off about this room, like a bad smell that lingers no matter how much cleaning is done. She kicked something soft and squishy. “Oh, yuck! A rat!” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed, disgusted. “Let me see,” said Fluttershy, rushing over to the shadowy corner. She was careful not to touch the rat but examined it thoroughly. Sunset Shimmer itched all over. She thought, When was the last time I felt like this? “It’s dead, and there are four more back in the dark corner,” said Fluttershy, standing up. “But, I can’t tell what killed them. It just feels so wrong.” Wrong. Dark corner. Dead. The itching grew worse. Sunset Shimmer’s heart rate increased again, and she suddenly remembered. I felt something like this at the Fall Formal, but much stronger. My magic pulsed like a heartbeat or bolt of lightning. This is a flatline. Oh no! We have to run! ”Sweet Celestia! Dark magic. Death magic!” Sunset Shimmer whispered to herself, terror starting to overtake her as Aria finished her packing and approached. Aria Blaze handed a small metal cigar box to Sunset Shimmer. A purple-tinted finger tapped the top. “Here you go. Make good use of it with Twilight’s friend. Remember, I want a weapon to defend us from whatever is happening. I won’t allow He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness to touch me ever again.” Sunset Shimmer nodded, barely keeping her composure. She said, “Thanks, but we need to go right now. I’ll explain later. Is there a quicker way out of here?” Confused, Aria said, “Yeah, of course, but what’s…” “Fluttershy, let’s get out of here!” Sunset Shimmer called. Aria’s faster route took them into through the aquarium exhibits. Ignoring Fluttershy’s pleas to watch the fish and marine mammals play, Sunset Shimmer urged Aria to make a beeline for the van. But their path was blocked by a small press conference in the aquarium’s atrium. As they reversed course, they heard a disturbing exchange between the facility’s director and the reporters: “...we will thoroughly investigate what happened here and make sure that it’s not a mechanical problem or result of human error,” said an authoritative voice near one of the exhibits. “How many did you lose, again?” came a loud question. “This morning, we found a nurse shark that was already sick and about two dozen of our more exotic tropical fish floating belly up in their tanks. As I’ve said before, the only commonality between the accidents is that the tanks are close to one another, and all the dead fish had fragile constitutions for one reason or another.” The sound of repetitive questions slowly faded. Sunset Shimmer was now jogging through the exhibits in an effort to escape the aquarium. “Slow down, Sunset!” huffed Aria in exasperation from beneath the heavy rucksack, with Fluttershy close behind. “What’s wrong with you? You’re going the wrong way!” “I’ll tell you in the van,” answered the former unicorn. Three minutes later, the rucksack had been added to the stack of stuff piled on the shag carpeting in the back of the ancient vehicle. They sped away, heading towards Fluttershy’s home. Aria was angry, her purple eyes flashing and teeth clenched. She demanded, “Okay, Sunset Shimmer, will you finally tell me what in Tartarus that was all about, now?” “Alright! Someone, somepony, or something used powerful dark magic recently in your little room!” Motioning to Fluttershy, who was trying to concentrate on her driving, Sunset Shimmer continued. “She’s seen me use dark enchantments. I know more than I should about hypnotism, charming and control spells. What I felt was necromancy. Death magic.” “Eeeep!” Fluttershy squeaked as the van skidded to a stop in the middle of a city block. Flipping her purple and teal pigtails out of her face and making sure she was all right after the sudden halt, Aria gave a low whistle and finally replied, “No wonder you wanted us to get out of there.” “No wonder Adagio is scared! I’m t-t-terrified!” stammered Fluttershy, hands tightly gripping the steering wheel. Horns began to sound behind the van. “Just drive, Fluttershy,” directed Sunset Shimmer. The van continued its trip. “Evil magic must have killed those rats and those fish. But, considering what happened at the Battle of the Bands, that doesn’t seem like something Adagio could do, even before the pendants broke.” “No, that’s not our speed,” replied Aria, shaking her head. “We fed off of negative emotions, which are awfully tough to come by from anything that’s’ not alive. What did Adagio get herself into? What found her?” Sunset Shimmer gulped and turned backwards toward Aria. She answered, “I don’t know, Aria, but I sure hope that the others are keeping Sonata close to them.” As the van clattered its way across Canterlot, the wind grew in intensity, and the sun struggled to shed its light through iron-gray clouds. ---- “You’re so nice and warm, Big Macintosh!” squealed Sonata Dusk as she squeezed next to the pickup truck’s driver, seeking shelter from the chilling breeze outside. The temperature had dropped throughout the day, and Sonata’s light sweater, while it had seemed like enough clothing that morning, was no longer adequate. Apple Bloom’s bow smashed itself into Sonata’s blue-hued nose. “I am not sitting on your lap, Applejack!” she complained, as the three Apples and one Siren packed themselves into the single bench seat of the family pickup truck. Sonata twirled a blue lock of hair around her finger. She looked at Big Macintosh with a broad smile and said, “Thank you so much for coming to get us. It’s soooo cooold out there!” “You’re welcome,” answered the farmer simply as he popped the truck into gear and Applejack fastened her seatbelt. “Sonata’s going to help us with some of the farm chores and stay with us again tonight!” declared Applejack cheerfully. “You don’t mind, do you?” “Nope,” came Big Mac’s brief reply. Apple Bloom’s squeaky voice broke in. “Remember, Granny Smith had to make a trip to Appleoosa for the next few days to help Braeburn negotiate prices for the next harvest!” “Well, then I’ll have to cook and Sonata will have to work,” decided Applejack. “You’ll have to do what my brother tells you to. Are you okay with that, Sonata?” Lilac eyes shining brightly, Sonata smiled and answered, “Oh yeah! I’m so happy that I get to spend time with you all again! Getting a little dirty is no problem at all.” During the drive, the farming family pleasantly talked about the weather, the orchard, and school. They are all so happy, Sonata thought. None of them are afraid of anything. I want them to be a part of my plan so much. Others will do this hard work for them, I’ll see to that. Sonata shifted a couple more inches to her left, laying all of her leg against Big Macintosh as he drove. With four people sharing the front bench, it was a tight squeeze. Sonata then crossed her legs, forcing the young man to brush his forearm against her knee as he worked the truck’s manual transmission. The Siren suppressed a smile as she felt the strong muscles in his leg tighten nervously as he tried to give her more room on the seat. Such a gentleman, Sonata thought deviously. I’ll have to keep that in mind. “Sonata, what’s this I heard about you acting in class? Where did you learn to do that? If Sweetie Belle finds out, you’ll find yourself on their homemade stage faster than you can say ‘curtain call’! Flash Sentry couldn’t stop talking about you in Cranky’s class,” said Applejack, unknowingly coming to her brother’s rescue. Not wanting to talk about her past, Sonata answered a question with a question. “Homemade stage? What do you mean?” Apple Bloom jumped in, enthusiastically answering, “Us Crusaders, that’s me, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, built a clubhouse out in the woods near Sweet Apple Acres with some stuff that Big Mac let us have from the farm. Last fall, Sweetie Belle wrote a play, so we built a little stage with help from Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Um, it didn’t go so well, but the stage is great! We’ll try again once it warms up!” Apple Bloom tuned the radio to a country station, and the quartet sang the rest of the way to Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack expressed surprise at how strong Sonata’s singing voice had become since the Battle of the Bands. Sonata complimented Big Mac’s singing, lightly patting his leg as they turned towards the farmhouse. Upstairs in her bedroom, Applejack tossed Sonata a pair of working blue jeans and a long-sleeved flannel shirt. She said, “I know you spent last night at Rarity’s, so I’d expect her to saddle you with clothes. But, take these because your fancy new duds would get ruined out in the barn.” Shaking her head, and eyeing the blue-skinned girl up and down with a smile, she set a thick leather belt on the bed, adding, “Girl, I need to feed you better than what you’ve been getting. My pants are going to fall right off of you.” Applejack left the room, shutting the door behind her. Sonata immediately heard her yelling at Apple Bloom, ordering her to finish her homework. Twisting her long blue hair into a bun, she quickly changed into the work clothes and slipped into a pair of rubber boots. Noisily clomping downstairs, Sonata did a double take when she saw Applejack in the kitchen, without her hat and wearing an apron. The farmgirl was furiously mixing ingredients in a massive bowl on the table. Something resonated from deep in her memory: Coral Symphony furiously mixed the family’s dinner on the kitchen table and called to her daughter, “Sonata, tell your brother to finish his schoolwork and get ready for dinner!” “Yes, Mama,” replied Sonata, swimming behind the partition where her twin brother’s bed and belongings were placed. She called out, breaking his studious concentration, “Coral Aegis! It’s time for dinner!” The chilly, windy spring afternoon jolted Sonata Dusk to the present as she made her way over to the barn housing the farm’s vehicles and specialized equipment. She looked down at herself, frowning, and undid the second button on the borrowed flannel shirt, exposing a little more blue-tinted skin. As Sonata entered the barn, her eyes were drawn to Big Macintosh giving orders to two older farmhands. His forehead was covered with sweat, and his work shirt was rolled above his elbows, exposing his powerful forearms. The two men nodded respectfully to the young farmer as he sent them on their way with few words. Sonata’s pulse quickened and her cheeks flushed as Big Macintosh approached with a smile. Running a hand through his reddish-brown hair, he said, “I reckon it’ll storm later, so I sent the hands home early. We’ll need to pick up the slack. Do you remember what AJ showed you about mucking out the livestock barn?” “Eeyup,” replied Sonata, returning the smile. Big Macintosh raised his eyebrows, obviously trying to decide whether the girl was mocking him or not. He followed up with another question. “Do you think you can handle feeding and watering the animals, too?” The girl nodded her head, blue-streaked bun bobbing along, and declared, “I sure will! For you, I’ll get it done way before dinner. Your sister taught me well.” “Good. I’ll handle this building, then. Let’s get to it,” he replied simply. Sonata, without Applejack’s watching eyes and her earlier injuries, didn’t need to or want to conceal the physical gifts that came with her transformation into a Siren. While cleaning the barn and caring for the livestock was still strenuous work, she was able to work without any sort of break. Today, Sonata shouldered huge hay bales that she and Applejack had carried together on Monday. The physical labor felt good to Sonata and reminded her of the chores she did around her tiny house when she was a filly. She wiped the sweat off of her brow with a flannel sleeve and surveyed the barn. The manure and other animal waste had been removed. All of the animals had been fed and watered and were eagerly enjoying their dinner. The tools were clean and properly stowed, and the barn’s central aisle between the stalls was freshly swept. “Now, for the next step,” Sonata said to herself. She undid the bun, freeing her blue-streaked hair, and arranged it in front of her shoulders in a poor imitation of Cheerilee’s hairstyle. As she walked towards the vehicle barn, Sonata stopped and gasped, hearing the deep voice she had been dreaming about since Sweetie Belle’s revelation last night. She hid out of sight near the open barn door, her right hand going to her throat, searching for a pendant that was no longer there. Big Macintosh was loudly singing a sad song of separation as he finished his work, his strong baritone echoing from the rafters: I'm going across the deep blue sea In this country tell me I'm all alone so sad and blue My every thought is just for you In these long years that I spent here I only wish that you were here To the dizzy fog and a mist of rain I can see you strolling right down the lane Someday darling I will return Then our hearts will no longer yearn Things will be just like before Just you and I forever more Sonata couldn’t contain herself any more. The combination of Big Macintosh’s singing and the cool air on her sweaty skin had raised goosebumps and produced chills that had little to do with the weather. She strode into the barn as soon as the final note trailed off into the early evening. “That was amazing! Big Mac, I never knew you could sing so well!” The young man blushed in embarrassment, sheepishly smiling and scratching the back of his head. He could only muster a polite reply. “Thanks, Sonata. That’s mighty kind of you to say so.” Sonata Dusk continued to close the distance between the two of them. She asked innocently, “What’s that song about? I like songs about the sea.” “Well, it’s tough to explain.” Winking at Big Macintosh, Sonata placed a hand on her hip and challenged him. “Try me.” “Okay. This song is sort of like a... what did she call it? A role reversal,” said Big Mac, struggling to find the correct words. “The girl I liked left for a long time, so she’s the one at sea. She’s really the one singing. I stayed here.” Moving another step closer and meeting the young man’s eyes, Sonata asked, “So what happened to the two of you?” Eyes widening, the farmer answered too quickly, “Um, she’s my girlfriend now. You probably know her. It’s Cheerliee, the CHS librarian.” Extending her lower lip in a pretty pout, Sonata Dusk said, “It’s a pity she didn’t notice you right away. It’s terrible to have such strong feelings for someone and not have her accept you.” The ringing of the wrought-iron triangle rescued Big Macintosh from having to respond. Applejack, looking almost matronly in the apron, yelled from the porch, “Dinner in five, you two! Get in here and wash up!” Without a word, the farmer obeyed his younger sister and walked briskly to the house. Sonata grinned to herself and admired Big Mac’s stride as he brushed past her. To his credit, he politely held the front door open for her. As Sonata walked into the house, she was blasted with pleasant sensations. The smell of freshly baked bread, a homemade apple pie and a macaroni and cheese casserole filled her nose. Apple Bloom and Applejack’s happy laughter tickled her ears. The warmth of a fire in the living room’s hearth was an unexpected delight, and her eyes were drawn to Big Macintosh washing the oil and grime from his hands in the deep kitchen sink. The whole thing felt like home to her. It wasn’t the home she remembered, nor was it any home she’d shared with Adagio and Aria, but Sonata took delight in the home she had always wanted. After Sonata cleaned up, the group of four sat in the kitchen together. Sitting at the head of the table, Big Mac said a simple blessing over the dinner Applejack had prepared, and they dug in with all the enthusiasm that the group of young people could muster. The conversation consisted of back-and-forth between the three girls, with an occasional question or comment from a smiling Big Macintosh. Over huge slices of apple pie, with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top, Sonata and the Apples enjoyed each other’s company as the sun set outside. “…so then Rainbow Dash tells him, ‘I think you’re moving a little fast, considering she doesn’t even know your name, rookie’! What is it with all these new students who try to ask me and my friends out on their first day of school at CHS?” said Applejack. The whole table exploded with laughter. Wiping away a tear of mirth, Big Macintosh announced, “I think that does it. I reckon none of us can do better than that! AJ, I’ll give you a hand with the dishes.” “Oooh, Sonata, come with me, I have something that I want to show you!” blurted Apple Bloom. She grabbed Sonata Dusk’s hand and pulled her towards the family room. The fire continued to burn in the brick fireplace. Apple Bloom put another log on top of the coals, went to the bookshelf and pulled out a thick photo album. She sat on the sofa and patted the cushion next to her. “Sonata, I want to show you some pictures. Granny does this all the time, but with you here, I get a chance to pick for once,” she said excitedly. “What are you going to show me?” Sonata asked. She smiled pleasantly and sat next to the younger girl. “My family, of course!” Apple Bloom replied. She opened the book and set half of it on Sonata Dusk’s lap. Sonata soaked in the warmth of the fire and enjoyed the silly second-hand stories that Apple Bloom told about Granny Smith’s youth. While she had lived nearly as score of lifetimes, Sonata was still surprised to learn that the full-time farmer and part-time lunch lady was once a champion high diver. The sky outside turned to night. The sounds of water running and cookware clanging started to give way to the silence of dish towels at work. Apple Bloom turned a page in the album and her torrent of narration came to a sudden stop. “What’s wrong, little one?” asked Sonata, patting the younger girl’s hand. The book on her lap was opened to a full-page picture of two proud parents holding a newborn on the porch swing where Apple Bloom and Sonata had sat just two nights ago. The mother, with scarlet hair, a pretty freckled face and green eyes, looked adoringly at the baby in her arms. The baby’s face was barely visible because it was blocked by an enormous red bow. The father, a strong, handsome man with bright blonde hair and hazel eyes, wrapped his powerful arms around both of them and smiled at the camera. “That’s my Ma and Pa,” said Apple Bloom sadly. “They’re up in heaven, now.” Sonata began to tear up after hearing the teenager’s childlike choice of words. All she could ask was, “What happened, Apple Bloom?” “Ten years ago, they were in a head-on car accident. I cried and cried until I didn’t have any tears left. All of us did,” she answered. “Granny came back from Appleoosa and raised us after they were gone. She used all of these photo albums to try to tell us that Ma and Pa’s story isn’t done yet. Mac, AJ and I are still writing it.” Sonata exclaimed, “That’s so terrible! I don’t know what to say.” She remembered her mother’s voice: “Just don’t forget about us, Sonata, and don’t be afraid. You are my daughter and I will always love you and be proud of you.” Apple Bloom looked at the older girl with her hazel eyes and asked hesitantly, “Sonata, can I tell you the worst part?” “Of course, Apple Bloom,” she replied. “The accident killed Scootaloo’s parents, too. We met at the funeral and have been friends ever since. She didn’t have any other kin, so she’s had a rough time. Scoots blames herself because she got out of the house and her parents were driving all over trying to find her. I’ve tried to be strong for her, because she feels guilty every single day, but it’s just so awful sometimes.” Apple Bloom began to cry and curled up against Sonata. Applejack, her trademark hat back in place, poked her head into the living room. Sonata put a finger to her lips, and then pointed at the photo album. Applejack wiped a tear of her own away, nodded and moved away. After the tears subsided, Sonata said, “Let me tell you a secret, Apple Bloom. I lost my parents a long time ago, but I still think of them, too. But, I have a question for you. Since your parents left you so suddenly, are you ever afraid of being alone?” “Sure! But AJ, Big Mac, Sweetie, and Scoots do a great job of making it go away. I can be brave for them, because they’re all depending on me, and we all depend on each other,” responded Apple Bloom, her confidence returning. A low rumble of thunder came from outside. “You’d better get upstairs, little one. Get comfortable before this storm hits,” directed Sonata Dusk. “Okay, Sonata. Thanks for a great night. Oh, one more thing,” she said. Stretching herself as tall as she could, Apple Bloom poked a finger into Sonata’s shoulder and added, “I see the way you’re looking at my brother. I don’t want you getting all heartbroken. You need to know that he’s taken.” “Thanks for telling me, Apple Bloom,” she replied. Internally, she thought: Of course she’d look out for her big brother. Children see things their elders don’t. Apple Bloom gave Sonata another hug and departed. Sonata realized that it had become late and that she was a little sleepy herself. Before she could go upstairs, she noticed the door to the basement cracked open. She heard the sounds of an acoustic guitar playing and the unmistakable deep voice of Big Macintosh singing. Beyond the night dear as I lay sleeping I dreamed I held you in my arms But when I woke, dear, I was mistaken And I hung my head and I cried You are my sunshine, my only sunshine You make me happy when skies are gray You'll never know dear how much I love you Please don't take my sunshine away Sonata smiled sweetly, listening attentively. Another rumble of thunder penetrated the walls of the farmhouse. Sonata thought, I know this one from that mining town about seventy years ago! She rebuttoned the flannel shirt and said to herself, “I'll make him forget Cheerilee and help me dethrone Adagio, but not tonight. They’ll all thank me when I’m in charge, but I don’t want to mess up what just happened.” Sonata started down the stairs and sang in a strong, clear soprano: I'll always love you and make you happy If you will only say the same But if you leave me and love another You'll regret it all someday Big Macintosh, stunned at Sonata’s appearance and stage presence, joined in during the chorus: You are my sunshine, my only sunshine You make me happy when skies are gray You'll never know dear how much I love you Please don't take my sunshine away The two sang happy songs together for a little while. The farmer couldn't take his eyes off of Sonata, barely blinking each time she carried the tune. Sonata kept her distance and simply enjoyed the pleasure of making music with Big Macintosh. Despite the fun, a huge yawn soon escaped Sonata’s blue tinted lips. She smiled at Big Macintosh and said, “I’m sorry, but I need to get some sleep. Thank you for everything. This was a perfect evening. Good night, Big Mac.” She patted him affectionately on the shoulder and walked up the stairs. The thunderstorm was now raging, with horizontal rain and gusty winds buffeting the house. Not wanting to disturb Applejack, Sonata threw another log on the fire and curled up under a quilt on the family room sofa. The light of the flames and the shadows they cast danced over the numerous photographs of the Apple family. Sleep was about to claim the former Siren, until she heard heavy footfalls crossing the room. Barely cracking an eyelid, she could make out the silhouette of Big Macintosh in the entrance. Sonata heard him murmur to himself, “Cheerilee, I’m just making sure she sleeps all right. Nothing more.” Sonata feigned sleep as the young man gently rearranged the quilt over her. She expected him to go, but suddenly felt his breath on her cheek. Big Macintosh leaned down and gave the blue-tinted cheek a kiss, just like he had done to Apple Bloom thousands of times before. “Good night, Sonata. I hope we can sing again soon,” he whispered. Sonata was reconsidering her decision to stay well behaved that evening. Preparing to throw off the quilt and give chase, she was interrupted by loud banging and shouting at the front door. “Quit your hollering, I’m coming!” boomed Big Mac at the same time Applejack rushed downstairs. The door opened, revealing an angry, soaked and embarrassed Rainbow Dash. “Awesome! A welcoming committee!” she said sarcastically. “Are you going to let me in or do I have to sleep on the porch swing? The power just went out at my place.” “Come on in, sugarcube. Looks like we have a full house tonight,” said Applejack invitingly. Neither Applejack nor Rainbow Dash noticed Big Macintosh and Sonata Dusk looking nervously at one another, with Sonata’s hand touching her right cheek. ---- Adagio Dazzle pushed the empty plate away and said, “What a delicious meal, Ms. Raven. Thank you very much!” “Just ‘Raven’ is fine, Your Highness. May I call you Adagio?” replied the banshee respectfully. Flattered by Raven’s use of the honorific after all these centuries, Adagio cordially answered, “Of course. Given your unusual nature, how did you learn to cook so well?” “I had plenty of time on my hands and no way to satisfy my magical hunger. I think you can sympathize with that fact now that your pendant has been shattered,” said Raven matter-of-factly. She added, “Providing good hospitality to such an honored guest is merely a bonus.” After Raven revealed herself to Adagio at the aquarium last night, they returned to a large luxury apartment located in the center of Canterlot. The dwelling’s size combined with its impressive furniture and eclectic art collection put it far out of reach of a mere high school teacher’s salary. Adagio surmised that Raven, like Sunset Shimmer before her reformation, must have applied her unique talents and encyclopedic knowledge to boost her disposable income. Adagio slept in until mid-afternoon, lounging in an obscenely comfortable guest bedroom. Adagio had stepped out to complete some errands after waking. She, ironically, purchased some clothing at the Carousel Boutique while slipping a nondescript envelope into the owner’s mailbox. Fortunately, the proprietor, Elegant Ensemble, didn’t recognize Adagio and provided several outstanding recommendations to modernize her dwindling wardrobe. Since returning early in the evening, Raven had catered to Adagio Dazzle’s every need. But there was an edge to their interaction. The excessive formality and practiced friendliness reminded her of her mother’s court. Adagio knew that the banshee was developing an opinion of her capabilities, strengths and weaknesses. Adagio could almost hear her mother’s commanding voice. Daughter, watch closely. She will expose her weakness and then use what you learn to bring her strengths to serve me and the Empire. We must remain strong or the other families and other sea creatures will destroy us. Raven returned from the kitchen with two cups of tea. Setting them on a large glass coffee table, she motioned for Adagio to take a seat in a throne-like black leather recliner. Shrieking Raven took a seat across from her, and Adagio met the woman’s flat black eyes. The Siren clasped her hands to keep her fingers from shaking. “Now, Adagio, we will discuss how you will take your rightful place as Queen of the reborn Aquastrian Empire,” declared Raven. She took a sip of her tea, and then rose to retrieve an exquisite marble chessboard. She set the board on the coffee table. “This, my dear, is you,” she said, holding up a black rook. “The king is your Master.” The undead creature set the two pieces on the board two squares away from one another. “You were once connected, but something has severed that connection. I think we both know what is responsible for that,” said Raven. Adagio sipped her tea. It was delicious, with an exotic cinnamon taste. She replied, smiling conspiratorially, “The magic conjured by the Rainbooms, of course.” Raven smiled, and asked, “We will just have to fix that, won’t we?” “How?” Placing three white pawns next to the black rook representing Adagio, the banshee continued. “Since you have already been changed by Leviathan, you will have to provide your Master something to quench his thirst and wake him from his long slumber. You will have to give him tribute in the fashion that your mother, your grandmother, and a score of other mermare queens have done in the past. He doesn’t have the vitality to transform them after such a long hibernation, but by consuming three young females, he will immediately regain much of his former power.” “Of course!” exclaimed Adagio Dazzle. “Fortunately, for you, I know of a place that is ideally suited for this ritual and would like to suggest three candidates that would re-establish your bond to your Master and cause you to be crowned as Queen at last!” Raven finished grandly. Suspicious, Adagio raised an eyebrow and asked, “What do you have to do with any of this?” She sipped her tea again. Raven placed a black bishop on the board to the side of the pawns, the rook and the king. She mysteriously replied, “I will help your Master take notice of the offering before him and rouse him from his dreamless sleep. My Master will be able to nudge him, as one brother waking another.” Something is wrong about all of this, thought Adagio. I wish Aria and Sonata were here to talk with her to give me time to watch and plan. Aloud, she said, “I would be grateful for your help. What do you get from all this?” The pale woman gave a throaty laugh. “I provide you a way to get home and to remove the interlopers from Nautilus Hall. Seeing you in league with your Master and crowned as Queen is a reward in itself. But, who would you make war upon once you restore the Empire?” “Celestia,” Adagio hissed. “So, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. With your taking bold initiative to disgrace Sunset Shimmer and demoralize her friends, my Master need not be wary of the power of Harmony. He would have free reign to spread his magic in this world. You have your Empire. I will have mine.” Adagio was finding it hard to concentrate. What’s wrong with me? I’m practically sinking into this chair. She said diplomatically, “You offer me a mighty gift, and we both desire the downfall of the Sun Princess. It’s something I will certainly consider. Would you tell me who you believe these sacrifices to be?” Raven stood, and counted each name on her fingers, “Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. Three girls of the proper age who are as close, maybe even closer, than sisters. They will fuel my magic.” Isn’t it our magic? Adagio weakly thought, eyelids drooping. “Your Highness, you need your rest. Let me show you to your room,” Raven said, cruelly smirking at Adagio Dazzle’s nearly-unconscious form. She helped the Siren to her feet and laid her in the guest bed once again. Adagio mumbled, “Wait! I have more questions!” “There will be time for that later, my dear. I have to keep you safe. You can’t go running off when your victory is so close,” replied the banshee. Adagio furiously thought, A sleeping potion! How could I have been so stupid? The last sound Adagio heard before dreamless sleep claimed her was the loud click of the bedroom door’s deadbolt. She was securely locked in her room. Human disguise fading from view, Shrieking Raven returned to the chessboard. Her skeletal fingers placed a black knight next to the black bishop. With a voice like dry leaves upon the wind, she said remorsefully, “It’s a pity that I will have to repeat that conversation. The draught is effective, but causes a loss of memory. Leviathan’s power will belong to Vecna, and I will use it to snuff the life from this world. Then, with Harmony defeated, I will breach the portal and my Master will take his revenge!” The banshee toppled the white pawns, the black rook, and the black king. She replaced the black bishop, representing herself, with the black queen. She surveyed the chess board and said, “I hope you will enjoy your short reign, Queen Adagio Dazzle. You will suffer an eternity of enslavement for it!” Outside, lightning flashed and thunder boomed as the thunderstorm struck Canterlot. ***** Lyrics to “Across the Blue Sea” and “You Are My Sunshine” found on www.bluegrasslyrics.com.www.bluegrasslyrics.com