> Three Sirens at Christmas > by Fabulosity > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Three Sirens at Christmas > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The events that had happened at Canterlot High School had finally made things clear. That just about anything could happen within those walls, magical or not. Everything just seemed to be attracted to those seven special girls. The last confrontation that had happened was against three unique girls that had been sent into the human world; straight from Equestria itself. These three girls had tried to take over the entire school using their strange powers. Using the power of music and song to take over the minds of all those that were present and having plans to go further again; possibly taking over the entire world if they couldn’t be stopped. Too be adored and never ignored. Those seven special girls; Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Sunset Shimmer these were the girls that in this new world, combined together to make the elements of harmony. It was there on their own ground, that they stood together and with the help of afew selected others; they fought back against the sinister plans of The Dazzlings. Having suddenly realized that their own power was dwarfed by the sheer amount of power emitting from those special girls, they lost control of their audience and all power of their unique ruby amulets; which was responsible for their ability to gain complete submission over anyone who had listened to the sweetness of their voices as they sang. As the performance was over, the three sirens had lost the battle of the bands and their once adoring audience had begun booing them off the stage. All three girls scampered between each other, fleeing as quickly as they could. One of the girls known as Adagio Dazzle had picked up the pieces of her own broken amulet before leaving, exit stage left. The battle was won. Those girls had beaten the Dazzlings and prevented a real problem that could have resulted in their entire school, the city and even the world itself being taken over against its own will. Though after the battle of the bands, no-one had seen those girls again and it was then that people often wondered, what really happened to the Dazzlings? No one knew. Months had passed from Canterlot Highs battle of the bands, but surprisingly the siren sisters hadn’t left the city nor moved on to another home after the events of what happened. Luckily for them no-one would have remembered exactly what happened, unless those seven girls told everyone of the plan that was in place. Otherwise it would have solely been them and afew selected others that would have remembered everything that took place during the event itself and those few days leading up to the battle of the bands event itself. The three siren girls had moved further into the city, finally finding a place to call their own after many weeks, even months enduring long hours and hard work and painfully putting up with each other as the stress continued to build among them. The leader of the trio Adagio, especially, was losing her cool of the two younger sirens with each passing day. It was true that each girl had difficulty getting along with the other, except for the youngest; known as Sonata Dusk, even if she often bickered with her elder siren, Aria Blaze more than the other Adagio. Tonight was their first night together in the new apartment located deeper into the city, as far as possible from Canterlot High and from most of the students that attended that school. Infact they seemed closer to that of the Crystal Prep Academy campus, that school was filled with complete polar opposites compared to that of Canterlot High. Adagio did her homework and well aware of those attending that prissy school; it was a potential target for their magic, but was called off when they found out that Canterlot High had possessed the Equestrian magic that they so desperately needed; but as we know, things didn’t quite work out in that respective. Once the three girls reached the apartment, they crowded around the front door and sighed with what seemed somewhat content, slight teeth chittering in the winter-season cold and Adagio slipped the key into the keyhole, turning a gaze toward her two siren sisters and smirked with a pleased and confident grin. “This is it girls. Our new home; it took some hard work and having to save up just about everything we could, but here we are. ~” While those words were absolutely correct, it didn’t stop the shivering or the cold in any way. It was then that Aria perked up with an irritated response to that of Adagio. “Just hurry up and open the door will you. I’m freezing my buns off out there, jeez!” “No-one likes cold buns!” Sonata would quickly declare with a comment of her own, once again joining in the conversation in her usual and distracting way. With another sigh, one filled with annoyance and regret; Adagio would turn the key and push open the door after removing the key from the slot within the door itself. Aria and Sonata quickly moved into the cold, dark apartment and sought around for lights as Adagio simply stood there – gazing into the darkness that lay within. It was depressing. It was cold. It wasn’t a place she wanted to call home. Not yet atleast. This… this was just a place that she’d be sleeping in with her only friends and family. It was then that the honey-haired siren would turn within the doorway, and gaze out over the street where they now lived. Looking toward the other apartments, those happy homes filled with happy people and saw those Christmas lights in windows, on doors, hanging under window sills and other fancy decorations hanging from various locations and places. This made the siren angry. They never understood why people here would celebrate such a ‘joyous’ holiday; of course it was the same back in Equestria. Even there they never understood why ponies would celebrate winter. Adagio squinted her eyes and gave it alittle thought. The teenager wanted to be happy for once, especially after the miserable defeat they suffered at Canterlot High. Perhaps this year things would be different. Perhaps it was finally time to make a change and fit in for once, rekindle the fiery spirit of a defeated girl. The lights soon came on and that apartment seemed alittle less dull and depressing; of course this made Adagio blink and come back to her senses almost immediately. “Alright, listen up girls.” Adagio would clap her hands together, slamming the door shut behind her. “We’re doing things alittle different this year, we’re getting involved.” Adagio further added. Aria was too busy rubbing her hands together to get some feeling back into those dainty hands. However it didn’t stop her from rolling her eyes and ignoring the honey-haired siren for the moment, as she ventured off and started switching on the electric heaters that were mounted upon the walls. It was time to get some heat flowing into the rooms, thus she was gone and focusing on getting heat going into the other rooms too and not just the living room. Of course Sonata was listening with that cheerful smile spread directly across her face; she was cute when she wanted to be. This was all the time really. However it didn’t stop the bluenette from piping up and asking Adagio what she meant. “What do you mean, Dagi?” “Ugh, what do you think I mean idiot? I’m talking about the Christmas holiday thing they always do here, like… every year. This year we’re getting involved. I don’t want us to be ‘those’ three girls that live in the city and don’t get involved with anything. I’m pretty sure we’ll direct more unwanted attention to ourselves by doing that. Not to mention… with our new jobs it won’t exactly be normal to sit around during the holiday and do nothing with ourselves.” Adagio paused. “So tomorrow we’re going out and we’re getting holiday stuff. Like the tree and… decorations. I don’t know… stuff!” She finished. It was at this time Aria had returned from switching on the heaters on in every room. They’d been fortunate in obtaining this place. It had a living room, a kitchen and bathroom and three bedrooms aswel as storage space. What more could three girls, living together ask for, in terms of housing? “Seriously Adagio… I don’t know about this. Why do we even have to get involved?” The middle siren stated. “I just told you. Weren’t you listening? Don’t question me Aria, I’m the leader here don’t forget that!” Adagio snapped back toward Aria. “Yeah, some leader you turned out to be. We totally left you in charge of finding us a decent meal and look what happened.” Aria rolled her eyes, rubbing her hands together as she took a seat as they were still in the living room. Of course things went silent for a moment. Aria was once again rubbing in the fact that Adagio cost them more than a free meal this time. The honey-haired siren would turn around, walking toward the living room window and gazed out toward the darkened street, the night sky at the top and those millions of lights that dotted the tall buildings around them. Sonata looked between both sisters, concerned with a frown placed upon her cute face. The youngest of the three clearly didn’t like it when they fought, but she didn’t know what to say. Infact anything that she could have said, might make the situation worse and she didn’t want that. Sonata took a seat too, between both girls and clapped her hands together gently as she started to enjoy the heat that was filling the room; atleast it was quick. Adagio reached for the cord belonging to the blind, as she twisted it and allowed the blind to fall down over the only window this side of the apartment. Releasing the cord and standing strong for the moment, she faced down and gripped both hands into fists as she shook her head. “I-It wasn’t my fault… I didn’t know… I just wanted for us…” She trailed off. “Yeah, well. You screwed us over big time Adagio and because of you, not only are we stuck here… but we don’t even have our magic. So now we gotta do these stupid jobs to actually earn money to buy food and survive. Atleast when we had our magic we could force people to give us what we wanted… so yeah, well done.” Aria would sigh, crossing her legs and falling back into that seat she’d been seated upon. “…” Sonata remained still, saying not a peep as she was still unsure of what could be said to aid the situation. “I’m sorry… I… I messed everything up.” Adagio would then comment after a moment of long pause. “I didn’t think this over entirely… I just saw that magic and wanted it so badly. But instead I cost all of us our only chance of keeping something of our old lives.” The leader was finally breaking up after months of holding it back. Aria saw this and noticed what was happening. The younger siren felt alittle bad about what she said; afterall she was speaking from equal frustration and started to regret that she had even opened her mouth to even talk about it. Adagio continued her mumbling, shaking her head in annoyance and feeling upset over the results of the last few months. “I know… I feel horrible about what happened. If I knew this is what would have happened, I wouldn’t have even went near that school. Those girls… they cost us everything and I’m sorry… I’ve failed you girls, I’ve let you down.” Adagio sniffed gently, weeping was the next to happen. “…I just wanted something better for us, ever since we got banished from Equestria. Please… please forgive me. I… I just wanted…” Adagio then began to sob. Sonata remained seated, the frown upon her face only worsened and she’d look from the crying Adagio toward Aria. The youngest of the group wanted to do something, but looked toward Aria for non-verbal assistance. To her surprise however, she watched as Aria stood upright and stood her own ground for a moment. The weeping Adagio was still heard in the room, things were getting much warmer however and their moods would be improving seeing as the room wasn’t ice-cold now. “…” Sonata opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. “Adagio…” Aria spoke out softly. The younger siren teenager was already making her way toward Adagio, as she stood there against the window. Aria moved up behind her and slowly wrapped her arms around that of her older sister, embracing her for the moment and simply holding her; allowing Adagio to see that she was actually caring about the well-being of their leader. “Listen… to us Adagio, it’s all over okay? It’s done. We all made mistakes in the past, Especially Sonata…” “Hey…!” Sonata piped out. “…But you gotta remember, it’s just us here now and we’ll always be here for each other. Amulets or not, whatever… we all got jobs now. You’re working as that fashion assistant, Sonata’s working down at the Taco-Belle and I’m doing maintenance. We’ve all got stuff to do now and we’re making money, so… let’s just do what we can until something comes up that we can finally go home.” Aria would finish speaking, sighing deeply as she nodded toward Sonata and coaxing their younger sister to come join them in the hug. Naturally Sonata would smile and immediately push herself up from the seat and move over to join both her sirens sisters in that loving and embracing hug. “Thanks… you both are so amazing. I appreciate you both forgiving me… I promise we’ll really try to make this work. I won’t let you both down again.” Adagio sniffled, reaching up to rub at her teary eyes. The older siren was tired, she was still alittle cold and just felt horrible about the recent events that had happened during their stay in this new world. Things would change, she knew things would change but it would take time; especially with the loss of their singing voices, it would take time to get back naturally of course. But for now they’d simply focus on surviving. “We know you won’t. Let’s just get something to eat… then get some sleep and tomorrow, we’ll go and do your idea or… whatever.” Aria sighed, releasing them both and stepping back with arms folded along her chest. The very moment that food was brought up, Sonata would spring from the hug also and immediately clasp her hands together and stare toward them both with the face of champions as she repeated basically of what Aria said. “W-We can order food, seriously!?!” “Yes, Sonata… we can order food.” Adagio would simply reply, her tummy grumbled alittle as the thought of food passed within her own mind. Turning from the window, she’d move over toward afew pamphlets that were resting on some of the furniture, while still clearing away afew tears from her eyes. Scanning through the multiple flyers she’d hold them up in hand and raise an eye toward both her siren siblings and switch her view between them. “What shall we feast upon this night, hm?” “Oh, I know! Tac-!” “Tacos… Yeah, we get it Sonata. You always want tacos.” Aria smirked. “Hm, how about we try something else tonight. Oh, this looks good. ~” Adagio would drop the rest of the flyers back upon the table, holding up a single flyer which was red in colour and decorated in gold and fancy font. It was Chinese. “Peking duck special… with Peking sauce, fried vegetables and boiled rice.” Adagio paused for a short moment, already she could feel her mouth drooling with desire. Pure want and once more her tummy would growl with obvious approval. “Well, I guess it’s settled then. I’d hate to argue with Adagio’s stomach.” Aria snorted. “Yeah, I mean… it’s a good thing Dagi’s tummy can’t bite or we’d be in trouble!” Sonata followed up. The honey-haired siren would stare toward them both, raising an eye and placing her hand upon a hip as she smirked. “Yeah, very funny you two; I’m calling for a delivery. I don’t want to go back into that cold, not right now. I’m just enjoying this heat too much.” It was true too. The heat within the apartment was quickly building up and starting to thaw out the cold air that was lingering within the furnished house. Moving toward the television, switching it on – she’d then toss the remote over toward Sonata as she removed her phone from her jacket pocket. Punching in the number, she’d hold the phone to her ear and wait for someone to pick up on the other side. The rings continued for afew seconds and suddenly someone picked up. “Yeah, I’d like to make an order… for delivery of course. ~” Pausing for a moment longer, she’d nod and smirk. “Ahuh, yes that’s right. 13 Elms Street. That’s the one. Yeah… can I order three courses of Peking duck with the Peking sauce, with vegetables and the boiled rice too?” Adagio remained on the phone as she looked toward the television, watching what Sonata was doing as the younger siren was scanning through the channels. Though as Sonata flicked through to one channel that was showing nudity, the older of the three would blink twice quickly and blush deeply as she turned away; listening to Aria argue with Sonata about whose fault it was for landing on such a channel. “Eh. Yeah, okay… that’s fine. See you soon” Adagio finished the call, placing the phone back into her pocket and turning back around to seeing both sisters squabble over the remote. “Okay, stop! Sonata no nudity on the TV and… Aria no fighting with Sonata! I’m getting a migraine.” The leading siren would trail off, grumbling to herself as she took a seat beside Sonata and Aria, whom all three were now sharing the same couch. “They won’t be long.” Adagio said. “Good. I’m pretty hungry too and I don’t want to become victim to that appetite of yours Adagio.” Aria would tease. “Dagi wouldn’t even eat you Aria, you probably taste like butt or something.” Sonata laughed out, only to whine suddenly as Aria locked her into a headlock. “I’m sorry! I’m joking, stop!” She then cried out. “You little bitch; I’ll kick your ass!” Aria grinned as she started noogy Sonata. “Owie! Owowowowow!” Sonata cried out alittle more. “I said I was sorry!” “Mhm.” Adagio simply stated. It didn’t take long however for the doorbell to ring and immediately Adagio would stand from the couch and walk toward the door, allowing Aria and Sonata to continue play fighting on the couch together. The moment she reached the door, she’d open it and smile toward the delivery boy who greeted her and stated the price of the food. Reaching for her purse, she’d remove the given amount and gave the money over to the delivery boy and after she took the food; she’d slam the door in his face. “Thanks. But sorry, no tip. ~” With a confident smirk spread across her face, she’d make her way toward the table located in the middle of the living room, between both the television and the couch. Placing the bags down onto the table, she’d smile and look between the others. “Listen up. There are three bags here… one for each of us, so no need for stealing food… Sonata.” Adagio would simply state, squinting her eyes toward the greediest of all three girls. “Hey, but… what if you guys don’t want any?” Sonata said in her own defence. “Then we’ll give you ours then.” Adagio replied. “Yeah, you seriously gotta stop eating so much Sonata. Your boobs are like… getting bigger everyday. I swear if you keep this up, we’ll hire you out as a dairy cow.” Aria joked. Sonata would frown slightly, and then suddenly smile. “Oh! I get it, ha-ha! You’re a total bitch Aria.” Many smirks and snickers were heard as each of the girls started digging into their given bags for their desired food. The smell was thick in the air and lingered of delicious cooked duck, the smell itself would have been enough to attract wildlife at this very moment if it were possible for them to breach the safety of the apartment walls. As each siren teenager pulled apart the paper, opening the tin containers and some plastic containers too, the food was practically begging to be eaten. The sauce was thick and the aroma intoxicating, the very smell wafting into each girl’s nose; enough to send shivers down each of their backs. The television was playing a movie comedy, a movie that they hadn’t seen before most likely. Though they spend the entire movie eating their food and by the end there wasn’t much, each girl was lying lazily upon the couch and almost lying atop of each other at this very moment. One person still wasn’t done however and as one could have guessed, it was Sonata. The youngest teen of the three was busy nibbling, chewing happily upon the remains of both Aria’s and Adagio’s food. Both Aria and Adagio just sat and watched both Sonata and the television, observing how interesting both were to watch at this given moment. Though when Sonata was finally done, the bluenette would sit back and smile happily and even stretching alittle. “Wow that was good!” She’d say. “Oh, I bet… you just about ate everything as usual.” Aria replied. “Now girls… it was a treat. So it was best for us all to enjoy, even if one of us seemed too have enjoyed it more.” Adagio would follow up with a comment herself. “But… it just tasted so good! Tacos would have been nice too, but… I like duck!” Sonata blurted out. “Yes, yes dear. I don’t know about you both, but I am going to go and get some shut-eye. So, glad you enjoyed the meal. But for now, I need my beauty sleep.” Adagio would announce, slowly lifting herself from the seat as if she were indeed drunk and not filled with food. “Okay Dagi!” Sonata piped up, heading immediately off to bed herself. Aria merely smirked, shrugging her shoulders and rolling her eyes as she would follow the other two sisters down the hallway, which was leading into their separate rooms. Though Adagio stopped and stood within the doorway of her room, watching as both her siren sisters moved past her. “Remember, tomorrow we’re leaving to go to the mall. We’ll make this year count for the others.” The honey-haired siren would smile, watching as the other two agreed and moved into their rooms, closing the door. Entering her own room fully now, closing the door behind her she would remove her clothing and strip down into her undergarments and sigh alittle; staring at herself within the bedroom mirror she’d had moved over with some other items. Squinting her eyes, she’d check over her figure and eventually go and climb into bed; pulling the sheets up and around herself as she then got comfortable and rested her head back into the pillow. “Mm. We can do this.” Adagio would murmur to herself before closing her eyes and finally drifting off into a gentle slumber, fetching herself some well-deserved rest. Darkness had already fallen upon the land, stars littering the black quilt that had swept overhead and now all three rested within the busy, bustling city that never slept. Things had become relaxed. The only part of the day where anyone could sleep soundly within their bed and listen to the gentle flow of traffic that continued to line the streets outside, truly this world was much different than that of Equestria. Many hours had passed and it was running very close to that of midday and neither siren had arisen from their slumber. Gentle snores could be heard and thankfully it was the weekend, Saturday, a day off for the more-than busy teenagers. An alert tone sounded on Adagios phone and thus roused the sleeping beauty from the depths of her unconsciousness. One eye opened weakly, tiredly as did the other and she’d lean from her bed, swatting for the phone to hopefully succeed in turning off the annoying alert that woke many a country in the early stages of morning. “Ugh… what time is it?” Adagio would mumble in a cute, yet confused manner. It was then that the siren beauty would reach for the phone yet again, after having just turned the phones alert off. Adagio grasped the device within that dainty hand and thus she’d roll over onto her back, holding the phone up infront of her, and now staring toward the screen with tired and strained eyes. “Mmn?” She’d mutter. As the honey-haired teenager allowed her eyes to focus, she’d soon be able to see the digits clearly upon her phones screen and she’d then release a loud, annoyed groan. They’d all slept in this long? Adagio paused for a moment, deliberately holding her breath to listen to anyone that would be walking around in the apartment. Maybe one of the other girls had awoken already? “…” Nothing: It seemed that neither girl was awake. With that the older teenager would sigh deeply and reach over toward her bedside table and place the phone back upon it. With an added push of effort, Adagio would swing herself up and finally sit on the side of the bed – curling her toes and stretching her legs alittle and staring toward the wall; allowing her bearings to finally adjust. Once she was done stretching, she’d stand from her bed and stretch alittle more before going and getting herself changed into her usual attire, with an added jacket of course. It was chilly outside no doubt. When Adagio was changing, afew stumbles could heard further down the hallway as Sonata had finally come around too. The ditzy teenager had fallen asleep while wearing her clothes as she was straight up from her bed and waving to Adagio as the older siren was just leaving her room. Raising an eye in surprise, Adagio was honestly shocked to see that Sonata was the first to leave her bedroom. Usually it was always a mission to get the lazy and ditzy girl up from her bed, but this time it was the complete opposite. Aria was the only one that had remained curled up in her own bed. “Sonata make sure you’re ready to go. We’ll get some breakfast in the mall. I’m going to get Aria up from her bed.” Adagio would say. “Okay!” Sonata simply replied. Sonata skipped off toward the living room, waiting for both sirens to turn up so that they could get going. Adagio however knew that this was going to take some effort, as Aria wasn’t exactly the most friendly of people at any given time. Not to mention, she was a total bear in the mornings when she was woken up by anyone else but herself. It was with that that Adagio finally approached the bedroom door and knocked upon it. “Aria… are you awake yet?” She paused. “…” There was no answer. Adagio would simply sigh and roll her eyes, running her tongue upside her teeth checking them. That reminded her, she’d need to brush her teeth before stepping out of the house; who knew what type of person they’d meet or what type of situation they’d get themselves into next. Either way, she wanted to look her absolute finest. “Sonata! You better make sure you brush your teeth and wash your face or I swear…” Adagio would trail off, grumbling. “Already doing it!” Sonata’s reply echoed faintly throughout the hallways. Atleast Sonata was already washing up; it meant there was less complications when they needed to go. However there was still no response from within Arias room, the grumpy teen was most likely still fast asleep; hiding under the sheets of her bed to shield herself from the sunlight that would be beaming in from the window, located at the rear of the building. This wouldn’t stop Adagio however, oh no, infact the honey-haired siren was already knocking upon the door a second time. “Aria, hey… c’mon. It’s time to get up. We need to be leaving soon. If you don’t get up you’ll leave me with no choice.” Adagio threatened. “…” No reply for afew short moments, then suddenly. “Fuck off, Adagio…” There was life indeed within that bedroom, as rude and vulgar as it was; there was still wonderful life present. Naturally the leading siren wasn’t amused and she’d squint her eyes while facing the others bedroom door. “Aria I swear to god… if you don’t get up, right now.” Adagio replied. “Okay! Fine… fuck me.” Aria would snap back in a unhappy, annoyed tone of voice. “That’s a good girl.” The leader would smirk, chewing her bottom lip slightly. Having won that little skirmish, it would take Aria afew moments to gather herself and wash up as she usually would. Adagio took the time to do the same; getting cleaned up before heading out was next on the list. Thus she’d move toward the bathroom, grabbing afew things and washing herself up while Aria dressed. Once she was done, she’d meet Aria outside the bathroom with that usual pissed off glare in her eye, accompanied with that precious scowl. “Good morning, bitch-tits.” Aria would rudely greet her older siren sibling. “Aw. Aren’t you precious? Get cleaned up because we’re leaving soon.” Adagio would declare, before reaching back and smacking Aria’s ass nice and hard as it was her turn to enter the bathroom. “Ow! Oh, you’re so fucking dead I swear!” Aria growled, slamming the door behind her. Another small battle had been won this day. Adagio was on a winning streak and they hadn’t even left the household yet. Perhaps this would turn out to be a good day, hopefully it would. Upon her arrival back in the living room, she’d raise an eye and watch as Sonata merely sat there and was currently rocking her head back and forth gently as if she were listening to music; patting at her lap too, with both hands. “Sonata just what are you doing?” Adagio would quiz the youngest member of their group. “Oh. I’m just humming a tune in my head. Why?” Sonata smiled innocently, looking back toward her glorious leader. “Nevermind, it’s nothing. It’s just for a moment; I finally thought you’d lost your mind. But that’s a good girl, you keep being… well… you.” Adagio smiled sweetly, even petting Sonata gently on the head. “Oh. Okay!” Sonata chirped up. Adagio couldn’t help but roll her eyes the moment she turned her head away. Sometimes she really did think Sonata would lose her mind, enter a fit of unending rage and go crazy. Releasing all tension and oppressed emotions upon her and Aria for years, upon years of abuse the ditzy siren had endured from them both. It was one of the reasons why Adagio had slightly improved her behaviour with the younger, more naïve of the three. Thankfully Aria had turned up into the living room and seemed that she was ready to go. Adagio nodded toward them both, checking them over and decided to ask once more before they’d go and set out on their journey for the day. “Okay, are you both ready to go?” “…” Aria didn’t even reply and instead simply flipped Adagio off. “Yup, I’m ready to go!” Sonata cutely responded. Adagio raised an eye toward Aria and soon squinted them, obviously she was unamused by her younger sisters’ antics; but atleast Sonata had the decency to reply to her normally. “Thank you Sonata. Atleast you’re not a huge bitch like your sister.” Adagio smiled sweetly toward Sonata, before shooting a glare toward Aria. It was as if Adagio were the mother, scolding and praising one daughter over the other. As all three girls moved toward the door, Adagio would open it and allow both Aria and Sonata to pass through before she’d slip out and close the door behind them; locking it and putting the key into her pocket, alongside her purse. It was finally time to go and get those decorations, gifts and tree to help celebrate the occasion in which these humans did. Moving down afew sets of steps, they’d finally reach the roadside thus on the street itself. Unfortunately for them, it was a long walk to the mall and they would most likely have to carry back all the things they bought; which wasn’t looking to favourable right now. None of them had a car yet, it was something that Aria was working toward but hadn’t quite reached the moment in her new life yet. Sonata simply wasn’t trusted due to obvious reasons and Adagio didn’t like the idea of having to drive around both girls when they needed something. However when Aria volunteered for the driving job, it relieved so much stress and worry from the leaders mind. The only thing that Sonata was happy about was the fact that she could finally go and enjoy drive-thru food instead of having to wait in line. While the sirens were doing well for themselves, they hadn’t quite reached that moment of pure comfort; not yet. Next was the car. However that would have to wait until after the season, as Aria was still preparing herself for the test and then to actually buy the car itself; all in due time of course. For now they’d have to deal with taking the bus or hailing a taxi, so with those methods of travel available; Adagio would raise her hand and yell “Taxi!” But none stopped. “What the…?” Adagio would blink, obviously confused by the lack of service. “What’s the matter Adagio? Pissed off that our great leader can’t even get a taxi to stop?” Aria teased. The honey-haired leader would narrow her eyes. “Shut up, Aria. This usually works. As you can see there are plenty of taxis but yet none want to stop, gr… I really still hate this world sometimes. Taxi!” Adagio would call out again, but none stopped. “Haha! That’s hilarious, like seriously. Maybe you should show alittle more skin, Adagio. ~” Aria would tease further. “Oh, you mean like this?” Sonata simply stated as she leaned out from behind both her siren sisters and pulled her skirt up just alittle, revealing the thicker part of her cyan-coloured thigh; and the moment she did, a taxi halted suddenly right beside them, with an audible screech of the tires in the process. The sudden reaction made Adagio drop her jaw open alittle, looking back toward Sonata and then toward Aria. “…Whatever.” Was all Adagio would say in terms of what just happened. All three girls climbed into the back of the taxi and closed the door, instructing the taxi-driver to take them to the Twin-Pines Mall. The three teenagers chatted among themselves, though it was mostly Sonata giggling about that had just happened. Aria was still teasing Adagio about the lack of skin and comparing how easy it was to the likes of Sonata, whom had just showed alittle more leg that usual to stop traffic itself to get the cab they needed to get to the mall. While the mall was too far away on foot, getting there by car was so much easier and the distance covered was nice and swift. Already they were approaching upon the large shopping complex and their faces all pushed to one side of the car as they gazed out toward the Twin Pines Mall. The building was layered in Christmas lights, there was a huge tree outside the front of the building and it was covered in buzzing, sparkling and colourful lights. The effort that had gone into creating this scene was most impressive and even though Adagio or Aria would have lied about how they truly thought about the scene, their faces would have spoken the truth. They were very impressed. Not even in Equestria had they saw such displays, not even in Canterlot. Once the taxi stopped outside the front of the building, Adagio would pay the driver while the other two scrambled out and into the chilling weather. Thankfully they’d both taken coats before leaving. As the lights sparkled and lit-up the entire building, the theme of the holidays had always left such a powerful feeling in their hearts; it reminded them of home, but this year they were actually getting a chance to enjoy the season instead of hating it. “Aria… it feels so magical.” Sonata gently said, emotion building in her heart. “Yeah, I know that dork. Just… don’t start crying on me or something okay?” Aria retorted. Sonata could help but smile widely, as her eyes scanned over every little detail and her spirit ate up every emotion that was being passed around through vibes given off by other people. It was positive energy, yes. It was something new and she adored it so much. They didn’t have their amulets anymore and thus couldn’t soak up the energies they needed, like what they once could do. But it didn’t matter anymore, this was more than enough and it felt better too. Adagio soon joined them, closing over the taxi door and allowing the driver to pull off back into traffic. When the older siren moved up behind them both, she’d push herself in between them and wrap an arm around each of their shoulders and pull them in close. With a confident, yet smug grin upon her expression she’d use her fingers to knead their coats collars alittle. “This is it girls, time for Christmas shopping. Who knows… maybe we’ll even be ready for Black Friday next year. Think of this as practice. ~” Adagio snorted playfully. Aria simply rolled her eyes and nudged back against her, deciding not to say anything. This was evident enough that she was partly enjoying herself even though they just got here; it was plenty different for Sonata however, the younger member of their group was almost hyperventilating with excitement. Adagio saw this and squeezed them together alittle more, before releasing them and leading the march onward; heading through those revolving doors and thus into the Christmassy mall. If one thought that the outside of the mall was bad for Christmas decorations and theming for the holidays, it only took one glimpse of the inside to put all that was previously seen to shame. The moment they stepped through from those doors, Sonata nearly fainted. It actually took both Adagio and Aria to hold her up for a moment. They never approached places like this during the holidays, thus trying to avoid the holiday altogether; but now they were here and experiencing it directly for the first time. “There are so many lights! Everything is bright and it feels warm, please! PLEASE! Can we live here, Dagi… PLEASE!” Sonata begged the oldest of the trio, literally grabbing Adagios arms as she said it. “Wh-What? No! You can’t live here! What are you, an idiot? Nevermind… but seriously, no Sonata, you can’t live here.” Adagio looked alittle worried; maybe this was a bad idea. “Get a grip you dork. Aren’t we here to get things to take home and make it look like this?” Aria asked. “Yeah, that’s what we’re here for Sonata; so just calm down okay?” Adagio added. “Okay… I’ll try. I promise I’ll try… but there is so much… it’s so beautiful!” Sonata whimpered and stood gazing around herself. “Grab her hand and let’s go Aria, before she starts a riot or something.” Adagio grumbled. “Yeah, yeah – fine.” Aria agreed with faked interest. Both Adagio and Aria would reach forward, taking a hand each of Sonatas and thus headed off into one direction; first on the list were the Christmas tree decorations. All three sirens walked together and headed into the first store they saw, thankfully it had afew things that they needed which was thankfully convenient. It seemed to specialize in lights for various things, such as trees, housing and other methods of installation such as inside and out. Adagio released Sonata’s hand and allowed Aria to keep an eye on her as she’d go around searching through the different sets of lights. She wanted something nice and sparkling for the Christmas tree, though Sonata was having trouble standing still so she’d set herself free from Aria’s hand and start following Adagio through the store. Aria just shrugged and folded her arms, looking as disinterested as ever; merely watching the two children as they walked around store, as if they were in a candy shop. “What do you think Sonata, blue or red?” Adagio asked. “Both! Let’s get the lights that shine all different colours!” Sonata declared. It was war in the lighting store. “That’s a good idea. Okay, let’s get these lights then. This is for the tree, which we’ll get before we leave – it’s best to leave the heaviest for last afterall. These lights...” Adagio paused for a moment, as she read over the product information. “Yeah, blue and red, green and purple with some gold and white; I think these will work perfectly.” The golden-haired siren would smile in glee. “They’re going to look amazing, I just know it!” The bluenette would squeal in sheer excitement. Adagio reached back and took Sonata’s hand and thus led her over toward the counter and placed the lights upon it, she actually took two boxes. Just in case. The face on the shopkeeper was hilarious; he seemed interested in the excitement of the two girls. Though keeping an eye on Aria possibly thinking that she was capable of shoplifting something, due to that casual look the girl sported. He didn’t think to ask Adagio or Sonata while they were smiling like idiots, though it was that time of the year and they were both girls so the question didn’t really need answering. Instead he simply chuckled and handed over the bag with the boxes of lights inside to that of Adagio and finished with a simple. “Merry Christmas, happy holidays girls.” Giving them a smile and releasing a cheerful chuckle as they left the store. On the way out Adagio grabbed Aria’s hand and tugged her firmly out with them which resulted in Arias suddenly reply. “H-Hey!?” “Okay we got the lights. Next up is the tree and apartment decorations.” Adagio declared. “Yes! We go the lights, now we get to get stuff for the tree – so awesome!” Sonata summed up second. Another sigh escaped from Aria’s lips as she deadpanned alittle; still being forced around the shops with her two siren siblings. As those three girls continued their jolly adventure around the mall, it was indeed such a nice feeling and the atmosphere was mostly relaxing. Despite the amount of people that was shopping around with them, there was a lot afterall. But these girls were used to crowds and had little effect on their overall season morale. Spotting the second stop, the store that was dedicated to housing and seasonal decorations those three girls continued forth and entered the selected store without remorse. Adagio once again released both their hands, leaving Aria to continue pouting in the middle of the shop floor. While Sonata was hot on her tail. The golden haired siren was quickly being followed by the bluenette that was already grabbing boxes of decorations, as was Adagio. It didn’t take long for them to find all the things they needed either. The boxes they picked up contained various tree decorations and some of the apartment itself. Different strands of coloured tinsel ranging from gold and silver, to blue and green. Not only that but they had differently shaped tree ornaments. Some looked like bells, others looked like angels and even some looked like stars and reindeer and even alittle Santa Claus shaped decoration which was picked out by Sonata. Both of the sirens had their arms, hands stuffed full with tree and housing decorations to fit the season of course. Now they were debating finishing in this store or picking up afew other things, though it was decided among them that they probably had enough. Going to the counter to pay for the large amount of goods that they had selected it was time to pay. Once more the shopkeeper, who was a woman this time was staring wide-eyed at the amount of goods that these two girls had brought to the counter. “Oh my.” She’d simply say as she began running them through the scanner. “Are you girls planning to have a big holiday?” The shopkeeper would ask. “Yeah, I guess you could say that. We’re REALLY looking forward to it; aren’t we Sonata?” Adagio would ask. Sonata would nod her head rapidly and smile with the biggest grin ever. “Yeah! I’m totally looking forward to it, like… for realzies!” “Well that’s sweet. I hope you girls enjoy your holiday. It’s good to see young teenagers these days taking the time to actually enjoy the season.” The kind shopkeeper stated, waiting for Adagio to pay once the scanning was finally complete. “Yeah, well you know… we just wanna have a good time and all that. ~” Adagio smiled sweetly as she paid for the items upon request. Once the items were all placed within bags, they’d be handed over toward both Sonata and Adagio whom would take them back toward Aria, who was standing there still and not having moved from when they first entered. She had also been keeping an eye on the bags from the last store while Adagio and Sonata continued scurry around like mice, picking up anything they could carry. Dumping most of the bags with Aria, they left and continued onward to the next store. The poor siren, Aria, was stuck carrying a multiple load of carrying bags stuffed with seasonal décor and she wasn’t one bit happy with it and thus displaying that Scrooge McDuck face as she walked around with her two siren siblings; acting as a baggage handler. It seemed that next on the list was a normal everyday items store. Once again both Adagio and Sonata left Aria at the door, keeping a close eye on their collected goods. Little did the middle siren know what either of them where doing, instead she’d flick from the goods to her phone on occasion. Adagio took this moment to scan through a catalogue used within the store to purchase items, seeing as it was a warehouse like store. It was time to get her sisters something nice for Christmas. Pushing Sonata away, she’d grump alittle. “Sonata go ahead and look through the books for something you might to get Aria, just don’t tell her okay?” Adagio suggested. “Sure, okay!” Sonata simply replied. Atleast now the oldest siren could find the time to look through the catalogues for something for both Aria and Sonata. It wouldn’t take long however, she knew exactly what each girl wanted or could be doing with and when she selected an item each; she’d go and pay for it the selected goods. Too her surprise however she had already found Sonata at the counter paying for some goods, even getting them bagged. That was quick. With a continued surprised blink, she would go up and collect her own items and even pay for them, making sure they were well hidden from the prying eyes of a certain bluenette siren and a grumpy twin-tails siren. “Okay, did you get everything Sonata?” Adagio would ask. “Yeah I totally got something for you and Aria, like something nice for realzies!” Sonata smiled happily. “Aw. You’re a total sweetheart you know that?” Adagio would smile equally as happy. “You didn’t need to get me anything you know.” “Yeah, but I wanted too. I mean you guys have done so much for me. So I wanted to get something nice for you both, y’know?” Sonata would further say. “Heh… well alright sweetie.” The older siren would say, nodding toward her. When both girls came back toward Aria, Adagio would hold tightly to the bags she had recently obtained in this very store. “Hey, Aria do you want to go and get anything?” Adagio would ask. “Nah I’m good. Did you guys get what you wanted?” Aria plainly said. “I did!” Sonata blurted out. “Well, yeah… I guess I did. But didn’t you want to get something you know… for the holidays?” Adagio asked again, keen on getting a positive response for once. “As I said, I’m good Adagio. Let’s just get going okay?” Aria said while rolling her eyes, picking up the bags. “Yeah okay sure…” Adagio trailed off as she watched Aria leave the shop with the bags they’d picked up so far. It seemed that Aria perhaps wasn’t too keen on the holiday, or perhaps it was all these positive emotions that were getting her ticked. It didn’t matter to Adagio right now; she was making the best attempt at this as she could. Little did they both know however, Aria was soaking in all the good feelings, positive energy and actually enjoying herself while her exterior was showing something off completely different. The next and possibly final stop was getting the tree. This was something that Adagio had to make sure that they got. It was something that she had seen everyone having in their windows during the seasons they spent in this new world. Why did they have a tree inside their own homes? Weren’t trees supposed to be an outdoor thing? And here she thought that ponies were strange creatures. The tree sirens continued toward the Christmas tree store and when they arrived, Aria once more decided to stay outside the store. Adagio wasn’t having it this time. Instead she decided to let Sonata stay outside with the bags and have her keep an eye on things for once, allowing Aria to come inside and take a look around. When both girls entered the shop, they’d look around and there were many different shapes of trees, which was surprising. A tree was a tree afterall. They had different colours too and it was actually quite interesting to see the selection that they had. “What do you think Aria?” Adagio asked. “I don’t know. Does it matter?” Aria replied. “Yes, it does Aria. This is important. Don’t you want to make this important for Sonata too?” Adagio said, placing her hands upon her shapely hips. “Ugh, fine. Let’s go for that one.” Aria suggested as she pointed toward one of the trees in the corner. The tree that Aria had selected was impressive. It had such a natural beauty about it. Even though the tree itself was artificial, it still looked amazing and something that they hadn’t seen before; not even in their own homeland. The tree was tall, standing roughly at seven feet in height with a wide waist. The branches stood out evenly and the bristles were coloured a pure snow white, not a pick of green upon the tree at all. It was completely white, suiting the wintery season itself. Adagio would raise both eyes in bewilderment and nodded her head gently. It seemed the oldest of the trio was attracted to the very sight of the tree itself. Well it was impressive. “Oh wow. Yeah okay, I agree with you Aria. Let’s take that one.” Adagio happily agreed. Fetching the store owner both girls talked things through with the owner and the same person boxed up the tree and tied it tightly to make sure that it wouldn’t snap open or break apart. Once that was completed Aria decided to take charge of the boxed tree, hoisting it over her shoulder while they now left the store after paying for the beautiful tree. They met Sonata on the way out, while she’d address them with a warm smile and typically a question to boot. “Did you guys get a tree?” “Yes, Sonata. It’s a nice tree, you’ll love it – trust us.” Adagio replied. “Yeah, trust us you dork. ~” Aria smirked, nudging Sonata playfully. “Okay I trust you guys, but like… it better be really pretty!” Sonata then stated, rubbing her arm. It was settled now. All the girls had gotten what they needed and thus started to make their way toward the exit. It was then that Sonata felt her tummy grumble and she’d whine alittle, speaking out and making her intentions perfectly clear. “Hey guys, when are we going to get something to eat? My tummy is going crazy for food.” “Oh, I totally forgot about that. Listen Sonata… here is the deal. When we get home, I’ll totally order some more Peking duck. How’s that sound?” Adagio asked. The siren wasn’t sure, but she gave it some thought atleast and thought about the food from last night and how it tasted. Soon she would reply. “Yeah, okay!” Typically Aria would roll her eyes again. Continuing to carry the items they’d picked up toward the exit of the mall. Adagio and Sonata followed behind of course, carrying their fair share of the goods – it was a team effort afterall. Once all three stepped outside into the open, it was dark already. Just how long were they inside the mall, hours had passed and literally too. It was cold too with a gentle chilling breeze that blew down the street, against them too as they stood there. “Holy shit… its freezing!” Aria announced. “Brrrrr… yeah. I’m totally calling a taxi.” Adagio declared. Luckily for Adagio, there was no need to flash any skin this time. It probably would have been difficult for the taxi driver to even see it in the darkness of the winter season. So when Adagio called out, waving her hand, a taxi luckily stopped and she’d smirk with a sense of victory – looking back toward her sisters while doing so. Once more Aria rolled her eyes, even shaking her head as she had a sly smirk upon her face. “You got lucky.” She’d state. Sonata merely laughed and followed Aria around to the trunk of the car, opening it and tossing all the bags inside and while having trouble getting the hatch closed, she did manage it. Taking this moment to tie the boxed tree to the roof of the cab, only to finally get inside and finally make their way home toward their new apartment. Once again it wasn’t long seeing as they got a taxi, provided to that of walking. Could one imagine three girls carrying stupid amounts of bags down the street, walking blocks upon blocks until they finally got home. The sight itself would have been comical surely. Soon however they reached home and while Adagio was busy paying the taxi driver, Sonata and Aria were already removing their bags of paid for items from the trunk of the car aswel as removing the boxed tree from the top of taxi and placed it aside as they waited for Adagio to finish up. Yes the golden haired siren had paid for everything today, but she was the one wanting to put in the effort for this family holiday and she was determined to make sure it was worth it. “Okay girls; let’s get this stuff inside.” Adagio said. “Yeah, okay.” Aria replied. “Kay!” Sonata quickly piped up. As all three girls grabbed what they could, Adagio had already taken afew bags and had made her way up those few sets of steps. Heading toward their apartment door; fighting with the lock to get it opened. Once the door swung open, she quickly made her way inside and dropped the bags into the floor and wiggled her fingers alittle. Behind her came Sonata with the rest of the bags, aswel as Aria whom of which was carrying the boxed winter tree over one shoulder and bags clenched in her other hand. Both the younger siren teens would place the bags onto the floor and relax for a moment, enjoying the peacefulness of their quiet apartment. Adagio grabbed afew bags, stuff she’d got for them two and scooted off around the house, turning on the electric heaters once more; while going to her room to hide away those personal gifts for her two dazzling sisters. She was sure Sonata was doing the same, which she was. Once the heaters were turned on, she’d come back to the living room with all the bags and Aria, whom was just closing the apartment door. A confident smile crept along Adagios face. It was time to decorate. They’d literally only been inside the apartment ten minutes and already Adagio was on the war path, declaring war on the living room and just about anywhere else in the house that could fall victim to seasonal decorations. Diving upon the Christmas tree box, tearing away at the duct tape that was used to keep the box closed tightly shut; it didn’t take long for the leading dazzling to fling open the box and thus reveal its contents. The tree looked pristine and just had that feeling upon it that would draw most into its merry presence. It was as if it were alive and seeking for someone to put it up for everyone to see. Adagio was already on the scene however, she had the tree up and out of the box with little problem. She was pretty peppy and strong for such a short and thin girl. Sonata was still out of sight, still hiding away in the bedroom probably up to something; but luckily for her, both her sisters were still busy with the newly obtained decorations. Adagio placed the new tree in the middle of the living room and started fixing at the bristles, those branches and fixing at them so they’d stick out evenly and look prim and proper. Naturally she’d swat at Aria, getting the middle siren sister to help out instead of standing there and gawking with that little lost girl look. “C’mon Aria, help out will you. This tree isn’t going to decorate itself.” Adagio sneered. “Yeah, okay fine. Just stop giving me that goofy look, it’s fucking terrifying.” Aria would reply. Both girls worked at the branches, fixing the rest of the bristles until there wasn’t any more left to fix. Now it was time to assort the decorations and ornaments and begin to dress the naked tree; give it a nice merry look. Adagio tossed Aria a box of tinsel and allowed the grumpy siren to decorate at her own leisure. Adagio herself however, had already opened a box of bells and had begun to place afew around the tree, in different and random places; while working around Aria of course. Eventually Sonata would show her face, poking out around the corner of the hallway; which would lead down into their rooms and watch as Adagio and Aria worked together to fix up the tree. It was nice to see both of her siblings getting along together for once, even if they were taking and poking jabs at each every so often. The youngest of three, Sonata, would skip out and bust open a box of angels; thus starting to help with the decorating as she worked around both her older sirens sisters. “This is really fun. The tree looks so good already and we haven’t even finished yet!” Sonata happy stated. “It does look good, doesn’t it?” The honey-haired siren would reply. “What do you think Aria?” “Bite me. I’m just helping… but I guess it does look pretty and whatever.” Aria snorted. “Aw, come on Aria… you don’t gotta be such a bitch all the time.” Sonata cheerfully declared. “If you wanna see a bitch Sonata, I’ll put you on top of the fucking tree. You can be our star.” Aria scowled. “Girls, this really isn’t the time for messing around.” Adagio spoke out. “Let’s just finish the decorating and then you both can maul each other as much as you want.” She added. “Fine!” Both Sonata and Aria said together, before snickering. The decorating continued and soon all the decorations and ornaments that were bought for the tree had been placed upon it. It looked amazing and stood out so nicely within the lightly furnished room. Clicking her fingers, Adagio signalled for Aria to give her a hand with moving the tree over toward the single living room window, which was large enough luckily for the entire tree to be displayed fully and allowed the tree to now rest there. “So who wants to do the honours?” Adagio asked, looking between both sisters. “You should probably let Sonata do it. She might wet herself if she doesn’t get too.” Aria teased, folding her arms. “Shut up Aria. That was like… one time, okay?” Sonata stated in an annoyed tone. “Alright, Sonata you get to plug in the lights and switch them on.” Adagio happily declared and thus gave Sonata the plug to the lights. The bluenette would move toward the socket and gently popped in the plug and stood upright for a moment, taking her time to check over the tree and make sure that everything was fine and that there’d be no problems. Perhaps Sonata should have sought this out for a career instead of working at Taco Belle and become a glorified Christmas tree inspector. Once everything was double checked, triple checked; Sonata would then lean forward and with a flick of a switch the tree started to glow majestically, lights begun flickering throughout the tree and the soft glow from the lights shone onto the walls. Though more importantly it would shine its light for those outside that would walk past, look up and spot the sirens newly obtained Christmas tree. All that was left now was the putting up of those few interior decorations. Aria was surprisingly already upon this task, as was Adagio. Sonata however just stood there and smiled as she admired the beauty of the pristine white tree with those lights blinking around it, and shining off that soft lighting onto the walls and ornaments upon the tree already. “Wow.” Sonata would quietly mumble, swaying on the spot as she took in their own Christmas display; instead of having to enjoy ours when the season came around every year. It didn’t take long for the household decorations to be put up and finally they were done. The tree was up, the decorations and house ornaments were up and everything looked much better than how things were this morning when they got up from bed. “Hey Dagi?” Sonata as asked out. “Yes, Sonata?” Adagio replied, pondering what kind of question Sonata would now ask. “When is Christmas day anyway?” The youngest siren sounded confused. “Well according to these humans… it’s on the twenty-fifth of December.” Adagio would reply, answering her sister. “Oh. So… when is that?” Sonata then would ask. “Ugh.” Aria rolled her eyes, face palming. Adagio removed her phone, tapping at the screen as she raised an eye having checked the calendar on her phone. “It seems that’s tomorrow. This is technically the eve of Christmas. Huh. That would certainly explain the crowds outside.” She’d further state, tapping her lower lip with afew fingers. It seemed that the siren sisters had just gotten involved in time. “Oh, wow. We were kinda cutting it close, huh?” Sonata giggled. “Indeed we did. But we managed to get things done on time.” Adagio stated. “Who wants something to eat? I’m ordering.” “I do!” Sonata piped out. “Yeah, I guess.” Aria followed up with a reply. It was already running late into that of Christmas Eve. The siren sisters had everything up, their home now looking ready for the season and an inviting light glowing around that of the living room. However it was now time for something to eat. Adagio was ordering another selected course of Peking duck, much like the night before; as it was voted for by all three. As the three sisters ate happily upon their food, they watched the television together and enjoyed various silly movies until the night got much later. Now it was the time for bed, full of good food and tender company; the three sirens ventured onwards to their beds. Each slipping into their nightwear and getting comfortable; snuggling under those sheets and sighing with much content, the day in which this world celebrated would soon be upon them in only a matter of afew hours. The clock ticked onward and as time passed, each of the teenagers fell asleep; one by one, until the entire apartment was fast asleep. During those slept hours it had begun to snow. Dabs of snowflakes falling from the sky, beginning to coat everything it touched. The night was black, the sky littered with brightly lit stars and each of them blinked and twinkled. It was almost eerie, but yet it brought about a unique calm and only something that could ever be experienced during a certain time of the year. It was beautiful and a time of the year, where it brought people together. Traffic still flowed through the city, though it was much thinner and lacked volume compared to that of the usual evening. It was a time for family and friends, keeping those one cared about close and holding onto the important things in life. Though as the morning grew near, it was getting closer to that moment, that every child waited for one once per year, Christmas day. When the time finally came for the siren sisters to arise from their beds, it was Sonata up first as per usual. Nothing new about that; then followed with Aria and then Adagio. It seemed that the leader was the year up this morning, most likely due to the day before and the amount of effort she had put in to make this season count. During the night however, the leading dazzling had already wrapped those gifts she had got the day before and had placed them under the tree for both her sisters. Sonata was the first to notice of course and was on the tree like a dog on steak; while she had begun to open her gift first, adoring the present that Adagio had got her – she’d hold it up and then squeal upmost delight. “Oh Dagi, thank you! How did you know, how did you know?!” Sonata said excitedly. “Let’s just say I had a hunch. I know you liked chocolate, so a fondue set to go with it? Perfect, right?” Adagio sneered and looked toward Aria. “Go ahead Aria.” The grumpy siren would reach for her gift and open it slowly. Once the paper was off, she’d open the box and laugh alittle, shaking her head upon seeing the gift inside. “Heh, thanks Adagio. Swiss-army knife… fuck yes.” It seemed Aria was very impressed with her gift, something that the siren could no-doubt find a use for. “I’m glad you like it. Just promise me you won’t actually kill someone with it, okay?” Adagio said jokingly. Sonata and Aria were both impressed with Adagio’s gift toward them, now it was Sonata’s turn and the sneaky little siren had managed to wrap up her gifts the night before; that’s why she was gone for most of the decorating. Using that time to make sure she wrapped her gifts up nice and snug. Giving a box to both Adagio and Aria, smiling widely like an idiot and waiting for them both to unwrap their gifts and see that they had got. First up was Aria. Opening the box after removing the paper, she’d open the box and snort gently. “Oh jeez, really Sonata?” Aria would state. “You got me those Christmas hair bangles… they’re pretty nice, thanks.” The grumpy sister would say, removing her own hair bangles and replacing them with the new ones that Sonata had got for her. They were a mixture of holy and red berry, giving the sirens hair that much more seasonal look. Next was Adagio, whom of which was already opening her gift. Peeling the wrapping paper from the item in question and when it was free, she’d smile and observe the little gift that Sonata had gotten her. “Thank you Sonata. It’s beautiful.” The leading dazzling was genuinely delighted with the new item she had received. It was a long red, amber and green scarf with red berries and Christmas symbols decorated along the sides. It was a very festive item and as Adagio wrapped it around her neck, she’d sigh with content. “I’m glad you guys like your gifts! Aria was complaining of her hair bangles getting old, so new ones! Then Adagio was complaining about the cold, so I got her a scarf. It makes you guys look really cute.” Sonata would quickly compliment. However one person was left and that was Aria, both sisters didn’t expect anything from Aria and had already got busy cleaning up the wrapping paper; they didn’t seem angry or annoyed about Aria’s lack of gift-giving. Afterall this was Aria. Though the middle siren piped up and made her intentions known. “Hey you guys… I wanted to get something for you guys too.” Aria would remove two small boxes from her pockets, handing one to each of them. “I uh… I already had these for a while and wanted to wait to now, because… why not I guess.” Aria averted her eyes, blushing alittle as she waited for them both to open their newly obtained gifts. When Sonata and Adagio opened their little boxes, inside was a small finger-ring. The ring itself was silver and on top was a small emerald gem that sparkled in the rooms light. It looked impressive, expensive and completely out of character for the likes of someone like Aria. “Aria… it’s beautiful.” Adagio simply said, completely gob-smacked at the gift she had received. “Yeah… it’s really pretty, Ari.” Sonata would pause, using that small nickname for her big sister for once. “Heh, yeah… I’m just glad you like them and all. There’s also an engraving around the ring too.” Aria would further add. Adagio would squint her eyes, as would Sonata. Both sisters attempted to read the engraving. “Let me see. It says… ‘Together Forever’.” Adagio would pause for a moment, feeling her hands trembling and her body shaking. Even now her bottom lip was quivering, the emotions they had began to stir up within her. Sonata didn’t even say anything, instead she moved over toward Aria and quickly wrapped her arms around that of her big sister, holding her close. The youngest dazzling was overwhelmed with joy. Happiness surging through her body, resulting in her arms squeezing harder around that of Aria’s thin body. “H-Hey… your hurting me dork!” Aria grunted, trying to do her best to resist Sonata’s death grip. When Sonata had Aria pinned like this, Adagio quickly joined in on the family hug. The leading siren would start wrapping her own arms around that of Sonata and Aria, cuddling herself in tightly against the other two. Right now it was a cuddling group of sisters, which truly cared for each other and wanted to protect one another from the new world that they were now forced to now endure. It was a joyous moment for the three, being close together like this was something that rarely happened. While they did care for each other on the inside, showing it on the outside like this was extremely rare. “I love you guys, like for realzies.” Sonata whimpered in a quiet, bashful tone. “I love you both, so much… we’ll always be together… forever.” Adagio would follow up with her own teary-eyed confession. “…Yeah I know. I love you guys too… always have, always will. ~” Aria would say quietly, resting her head against them both, while they stood there and enjoyed that close moment together. After afew moments, they’d gently separate and everyone was smiles, tears and feeling the love between themselves. It was then that Adagio would wipe her eyes clear of tears, smiling toward them both and finally saying. “Okay, let’s go get Christmas dinner. I’ve a craving for something smothered in gravy. ~”