> Sand, sea and... Sirens?
>  by Cryogenii
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Strip or Wax?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Under the mid-morning sun, with the sky a brilliant blue dome arching above them, Rarity and Applejack stretched out on beach towels atop soft, golden sands. With the retreating waves gently lapping at the shore and a warm breeze dancing through the air, it was the perfect setting for a leisurely day by the sea.

Rarity reclined languidly on her back, her alabaster skin a stark contrast against the vibrant hues of the beach towel she lay on. She was adorned in a stunning sapphire blue bathing suit that hugged her curves elegantly, paired with oversized shades and a wide-brimmed sun hat adorned with a silk ribbon, providing her with just the right accents to accessorise her outfit.

Beside her, Applejack lounged on her side, propped up on one elbow, her gaze tenderly fixed upon her beloved girlfriend. She sported her signature cowboy hat, tilted back slightly to allow the warm sunshine to kiss her cheeks. Her attire was a unique blend of country charm and beach flair, consisting of a plaid patterned bikini top that accentuated her athletic frame and daisy dukes that showcased her sun-kissed legs.

"Rarity, darlin'," Applejack drawled, a playful grin tugging at the corners of her lips, "why do y’all go to the trouble of sunbathing? Ain't never seen ya so much as get a hint a colour on them cheeks o' yours? Reckon even the sand here's got more of a tan than you.”

Rarity chuckled lightly, her azure eyes twinkling behind the dark lenses of her sunglasses as she shifted slightly to face Applejack. "Applejack, darling, not everyone gets those delightful freckles that you have. I prefer to maintain my porcelain perfection, thank you very much.  This is as much about being seen, as it is getting bronzed.”

Applejack chuckled in return, her gaze softening as she reached out to gently trace her fingertips along Rarity's cheek. "Well, sugarcube, ya know ah love ya just the way ya are.  Just so long as ya don' end up with too many admirers."

Looking over her sunglasses, Rarity teased her paramour. “Surely I'm allowed to make you a teensy bit jealous?”

Applejack lay her head on Rarity's shoulder and sighed. “Only all the time.”

As Rarity and Applejack enjoyed their tender moment by the shore, they were soon joined by the energetic presence of Rainbow Dash. With her vibrant multicoloured hair pulled up into a high ponytail that poked out the top of a sun visor, she exuded an aura of athleticism and confidence. Rainbow sported a pair of athletic shorts and a Wondercolts vest, the emblem stretched  across her chest. In one hand, she effortlessly spun a soccer ball on her finger, showing off her agility and skill.

"Hey lovebirds," Rainbow Dash called out with a mischievous grin, striding over to join them on the golden sands. "You two gonna make us all blush with that PDA? Might need to start charging admission around here."

Rarity rolled her eyes playfully, a smirk dancing across her lips. "Rainbow, darling, jealousy doesn't suit you. Besides, if you're feeling left out, I'm sure we could arrange for a private viewing later."

Rainbow let out a boisterous laugh, her tomboy spirit undeterred as she plopped down on the sand beside them. "Ha! Thanks, Rarity, but I'll pass. I'd rather chillax than watch you two making out with each other all day."

As Rainbow Dash settled onto the warm sand, she caught sight of Fluttershy making her way towards them clad in a floaty white and green summer dress adorned with puffball sleeves. She carried an oversized bag filled to the brim with beach essentials. Fluttershy waved demurely as she smoothed down her wind-blown pink tresses, the fresh breeze making the fabric of her outfit stream around her slender figure.

Rainbow Dash made space for her friend as she gracefully knelt down beside her.  Fluttershy modestly tucked the skirt of her dress around her thighs and, smiling happily, began to unpack her heavy bag, pulling out two large towels. "Here you go, Rainbow," Fluttershy murmured softly, her voice as soothing as a gentle breeze. "I thought you might forget a towel. It's always good to have a bit of extra comfort, especially on the hot sand.”

The sporty girl offered Fluttershy a grateful smile, her heart swelling with affection for her kind-hearted friend. "Neat-o, you're the best ‘shy."

"That's what I've heard,” a clipped voice sliced through the group like a sharp knife. 





Adagio Dazzle, radiating menace and sophistication, stood tall on the beach flanked by her companions Aria Blaze and Sonata Dusk. She smirked down at the girls laying about on the sand, seeming to suggest a mixture of contempt and mockery.

Her beach ensemble suggested wealth and refinement that wouldn't have been out of place on Rarity, with every piece appearing to be handpicked from the finest designer collections. The base was a purple swimsuit adorned with golden embellishments, its craftsmanship evident in its flawless construction. Over it, a sheer white cover-up billowed gracefully in the ocean breeze, its delicate fabric whispering of opulence as it trailed behind her.  Adagio's signature spiked hairband held back her mane of luscious blond curls, adding a touch of edgy glamour to her ensemble. Each curl seemed perfectly coiffed, framing her fully made-up face.

As she moved closer, it was clear that Adagio spared no expense when it came to the other aspects of her appearance. From her designer sunglasses to her manicured nails, every detail spoke of luxury and sophistication, making her a vision of beauty amidst the sandy shores.

Rainbow Dash sprang to her feet, her fists clenched in anger as she prepared to confront the unwelcome intruder. But before she could speak, Fluttershy's soft voice cut through the tension like a ray of sunshine breaking through storm clouds.  "Oh, Sonata, I'm so happy you're here," Fluttershy murmured, her voice warm and genuine as she turned her attention to her friend. "I've been looking forward to spending time with you and your friends."

The shock on Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack's faces was palpable as Sonata knelt down beside Fluttershy, her expression softening as she enveloped her in a warm hug. Despite the tension that hung in the air between the others, the closeness between the two was obvious.

“Well this is a surprise.” Sunset Shimmer's distinctive twang echoed across the beach as she expressed her shock at seeing her friends and the Dazzlings together.  With her distinctive red and yellow hair streaming behind her in a loose ponytail, Sunset Shimmer strode purposefully up to the group, her gaze steely and determined. Despite the exposed look of beach wear she exuded an aura of confidence and strength, her black halter-neck bikini adorned with studded details and a striking sunburst motif showing off strong shoulders. Wrapped around her waist was a sarong in shades of sunrise, adding a touch of flair to her look.

As she positioned herself defensively between the Sirens and her friends, Sunset's posture spoke volumes of her protective intent. Her arms folded and jaw set in determination, she stood as a barrier, shielding her companions from any potential assault. Though her expression remained composed, there was a fire in her cyan eyes, a silent warning that she wouldn't hesitate to defend those she cared about.

Adagio Dazzle responded with a casual shrug, her tone betraying a hint of amusement as she spoke. “I do enjoy a day by the ocean," she remarked, her gaze sweeping across the group with a smug smile. "And when Sonata mentioned that Fluttershy had organised a beach day, I couldn't resist the opportunity for a little... entertainment."

There was a malicious twinkle in Adagio's eyes as she turned her attention to Sunset Shimmer, her words dripping with sarcasm. "Of course, Fluttershy didn't happen to mention who else she'd invited, did she?"





The air crackled with pent-up tension as the remaining ex-sirens squared up against the Canterlot High School students, their gazes locked into each other, unwilling to look away. It seemed as though the slightest spark could ignite the powder keg of animosity that simmered just beneath the surface.

Sunset's brow furrowed in confusion, her mind racing as she tried to piece together the puzzle before her.  Had Fluttershy invited all the Dazzlings, or had Adagio and Aria invited themselves just to cause mischief?  Although the former sirens no longer fed off negative emotions, it seemed that Adagio still enjoyed stirring up trouble for no reason but her own satisfaction.  

Whether or not Fluttershy had neglected to disclose the full guest list for their beach day,  Adagio obviously wanted to use that to drive a wedge between the friends. Sunset exchanged a wary glance with the others, deciding she wouldn't let this cause any friction between them.  She took a deep breath and prepared to try her best to diffuse the situation. But then, as if by magic, the tension was shattered by the tinkling sound of happy giggling. 

Dressed in a mint green bikini that perfectly complemented her vibrant blue hair, Sonata exuded such a playful charm that was impossible to hold any ill will towards her. The colour of her swimsuit seemed to mimic both the serene hues of the ocean and accentuate her own complexion with its soft, pastel tones.  A silky sarong was wrapped loosely around her hips, its fabric fluttering in the gentle sea breeze, and a bulging bag made from colourful recycled fabrics hung from her shoulder.

With a radiant smile gracing her lips she kicked off her slides, relishing the sensation of the warm sand between her toes as she sat beside Fluttershy.  Soon the friends were chatting away with a sense of innocence and joy that seemed oblivious to the face-off between Adagio and the rest of Fluttershy's friends.

The icy barrier that had divided the two groups melted away, as if the effort of maintaining such animosity was too much effort under the bright sunlight.  Sunset glanced towards Adagio, one eyebrow raised.  The lion-maned girl gave the barest of half shrugs and with a nod of her head directed Aria to unroll the beach towels she was carrying.

At Adagio's command, Aria carelessly rolled out a towel next to the others, her movements lacking any enthusiasm. While Adagio settled comfortably on the soft sand, Aria remained aloof, choosing to distance herself from the group. Perching on the nearby dunes, she sat with her arms tightly folded across her chest, a stark contrast to the relaxed postures of her companions. Aria's signature bunches of streaked hair gently brushed over the sand in the fresh sea breeze, their vibrant hues standing out against the golden grains. With each gust, wisps of her hair danced in the air, casting fleeting shadows on the sun-kissed shore.

Her attire, a vibrant fluorescent green and black athletic swimsuit, mirrored her defiant spirit, its bold colours standing out against the serene beach backdrop and her own pink hued skin. With a sullen glare, she sneered at the bustling activity on the beach, seemingly disconnected from the joyful scenes unfolding around her. Despite the inviting atmosphere, Aria's choice of solitude showed that she had no desire to be any part of the day.

The other girls, both former sirens and Wondercolts found themselves drawn together, scattered on their towels and mats in a loose group on the beach.  Sonata's laughter echoed across the beach as Fluttershy showed her something on her phone, washing away the lingering traces of tension. It was clear that her friendship with her shy friend had the magic to bring a fragile truce to the whole group.

With a soft thud Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle dropped a coolbox into the midst of the group. The odd atmosphere of the prior moments had been so consuming that nobody had noticed their arrival until the moment they were on top of them.

"What's going on?" Twilight's voice carried a note of concern as she scanned the group, her gaze lingering on Sunset Shimmer for a moment before shifting to the former Sirens. 

Pinkie, sporting a playful pink ruffled swimsuit with white corseted accents, looked around uncertainty, her eyes wide with a mixture of curiosity and trepidation. Next to her, Twilight’s tall figure looked striking in a blue nautical-themed swimsuit, the horizontally striped cups on the bustier adding a touch of sophistication to her beach attire that was further highlighted by the tiara shaped hair clip holding her ponytail up. Observing their friends sitting with the Dazzlings, their expressions reflected worry and puzzlement.

Pinkie, her uncertainty evident in her tone, chimed in, "Um, this seems... fun?" Despite their apprehension, both girls seemed willing to go along with whatever was unfolding, their loyalty to their friends outweighing their unease at the unexpected gathering.





As Sunset Shimmer observed Fluttershy and Sonata engaged in conversation, a feeling of awkwardness settled over her. She racked her brain for any topic of conversation that could bridge the gap between her and the former sirens. Since the tumultuous events of the Battle of the Bands, the only other encounter she'd had with them was at that one music festival, and that had also been confrontational.

Her thoughts turned to their activities beyond their occasional appearances at festivals. Did they perform elsewhere? How did they support themselves? Sunset realised with a pang of guilt that she knew very little about their lives outside of those brief encounters. Sonata's job at Taco Loco was the only detail she could recall, but even that felt like a scant piece of information in the larger puzzle of their existence.

As Sunset pondered these questions, she felt a twinge of regret for not making more of an effort to understand the Dazzlings' circumstances. It was clear that she needed to rectify this oversight if she hoped to establish a more meaningful connection with them. With determination in her heart, Sunset resolved to find a way to broach these topics with the former sirens, despite the lingering uncertainty that weighed on her mind.

Sunset's voice carried genuine curiosity as she inquired about Adagio and Aria's well-being, her gaze lingering on the former sirens with a mix of concern and interest. "Hey, Adagio, Aria, it's been a while. How have you two been? I haven't seen you since the Sunswirled Festival."

Adagio's expression darkened at the mention of the festival, a scowl forming on her lips as she cast a disdainful glance towards the sea, the rhythmic crashing of the waves echoing in the background, before turning back to Sunset with a curious expression. "I could ask the same of you, Sunset. Last time we met, you were trapped in some kind of enchantment," she remarked, her voice tinged with curiosity. "What happened to that?"

Sunset took a moment to gather her thoughts before responding. "It wasn't an enchantment," she began, her voice gaining a pained timbre. "It was the effect of a lost Equestrian artefact."

Adagio's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "An artefact?" she exclaimed, her interest clearly piqued despite her efforts to seem insouciant. "How did that get here?"

With a sigh, Sunset shrugged her shoulders. “Wish I knew… but now it seems like Equestrian magic just keeps popping up.”

Adagio's eyes narrowed as she absorbed the revelation that there were Equestrian artefacts in the world of her exile. A mixture of frustration and curiosity flickered across her features as she pondered the implications. "All these centuries," she muttered, a hint of annoyance in her voice, "and I had no idea there was any Equestrian magic here before I saw your little light show of shame." Her gaze drifted back to the distant horizon.

Sunset's expression grew solemn as she watched Adagio's reaction. “Don't start making plans," she cautioned, her voice tinged with concern. "Every artefact has a way of corrupting those who come into contact with it. They promise of power and control, but there's nothing in the end." She glanced out to sea, a haunted look briefly crossing her features as she remembered her own experiences with the memory stone. "Sometimes," she continued, her tone softer now, "the cost of wielding such power is too high.”

Aria scoffed dismissively, a derisive smirk playing on her lips. "Oh, please," she retorted, rolling her eyes. "We're sirens, loser. We know a thing or two about giving up everything for power.”

Adagio's eyes narrow slightly as she leaned in, a trace of curiosity mixing with her usual disdain. "But enough of your do-good platitudes," she said, her tone sharp. "I still want to know about this time loop. What happened there?”

Sunset's gaze drifted to the horizon as she recalled the events of the past. “Somehow the band Post Crush had got hold of something called the Time Twizzler,” she explained, “They got completely caught up in performing their perfect show.  It created some sort of… time loop, and I guess I just got caught up in their mess.”

Adagio spoke to herself, absorbing Sunset's words. "Interesting," she mused, her expression thoughtful. "Perhaps those has-been K-Pop wannabes had more than I gave them credit for. How did you escape?”

Sunset's expression turned serious as she recounted her ordeal. "I was stuck in the same day, over and over again," she begins, her voice tinged with a hint of lingering anxiety. "It was like I was trapped in a never-ending cycle, reliving the same events endlessly." She pauses, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "At first, I didn't understand what was happening. But as time went on, I started to piece it together and I managed to destroy the artefact. It was... terrifying though, to say the least.”

“We know a thing or two about being trapped in an endless hell,” Adagio replied, her tone dripping with bitterness. "And we nearly didn't go to that festival. It's name is nothing but a painful reminder of the unicorn that trapped us in this world.”

Applejack addressed Adagio, the sincerity clear in her voice. "Y'know, it would've been a real shame if y’all had skipped out on that festival. I caught some of your performance, and I gotta say, it was real good."

Aria's lips curled into a small smile, her gaze softening as she nodded in appreciation of Applejack's words. "Thanks, Applejack," she murmured, her tone tinged with a hint of vulnerability. "Performing hasn't been easy since we had to learn to really sing instead of relying on magic."

Pinkie Pie chimed in, her curiosity piqued by Aria's revelation. "Wow, you were really bad after we broke your magic gemstone thingies. That must've taken a lot of practice, huh?"

Adagio's smile took on a wicked edge as she responded and her words were laced with a sense of irony, a reminder of the challenges they had faced in adapting to their new reality. "Oh, it took practice alright," she remarked, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "And a healthy dose of auto-tune, of course."

Fluttershy's gentle voice added a touch of warmth to the conversation as she shared her own perspective, her gaze turning towards Sonata with a fond smile. "I would've never made friends with Sonata if you hadn't gone to the festival."

Sonata's smile widened at Fluttershy's words, her eyes lighting up with genuine affection. "Aw, Fluttershy, I'm so glad we met there!" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm bubbling over. "I love having a buddy to go to rock concerts and pick up one night stands with."

Fluttershy's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as Sonata's words caught her off guard. "Oh, um, Sonata, I-I think you meant... uh..." she stammered, her voice trailing off as she struggled to find the right words.

Sonata tilted her head in confusion, her brows furrowing slightly. "Huh? What did I say?" she asked, her expression one of genuine puzzlement.

Rarity's eyes widened in shock at Fluttershy's unexpected revelation, a delicate hand flying to her chest in surprise. "Goodness gracious, Fluttershy, I never would have imagined you had such a... wild side," she exclaimed, her voice tinged with good natured disbelief.

Fluttershy's cheeks burned even brighter at Rarity's reaction, her embarrassment reaching new heights. "Oh, um, I-I mean..." she stammered, her words trailing off into an awkward silence.

Adagio gave a predatory smile, her eyes alight with mischief as she subtly teases Fluttershy. "Oh, Fluttershy, darling," she purred, her tone dripping with innuendo, "we've all heard about your... adventurous side. I'm sure those late-night escapades of yours will be the talk of the town." Her words hung in the air, leaving Fluttershy blushing furiously and stammering in protest, while Adagio continued to revel in embarrassing her.

Sunset Shimmer tried to diffuse the tension with a gentle chuckle, her expression sympathetic. "I think what Sonata meant to say is that she appreciates having a buddy to go to rock concerts with and make new friends," she interjected, casting a reassuring smile in Fluttershy's direction.

Fluttershy nodded eagerly, grateful for Sunset's intervention. "Y-Yes, that's definitely it," she confirmed, her voice a little shaky but earnest.

Sonata nodded vigorously. “Yeah, new friends we only see for one night and f-”

Sunset Shimmer quickly spoke over Sonata, her memory jogged by what she'd said. "Oh… I remember you mentioning something about going to see a band we ran into each other over lunch a while back," she remarked, “Was that the first night out that you two had?”

Sonata's eyes light up with fond memories as she recalled her first time socialising with Fluttershy. "Oh yeah, it was awesome!" she exclaimed, a smile spreading across her face. "We had this epic night out, just jamming and having fun. And you know what? It had the happiest ending ever!  Well, that and a hangover breakfast, and those are the best kind!" Her voice is filled with excitement as she reminisced about the joyous occasion spent with her newfound friend.

Pinkie's boundless enthusiasm filled the awkward pause as she rummaged through the chiller, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "Oh, I almost forgot!" she exclaimed, her voice cheerful and bright. "The mention of food reminds me that I brought snacks!"

With a flourish, Pinkie began to pull various treats from the chiller, tossing them over her shoulder with seemingly impossible accuracy. Cakes and cookies landed in neat piles on a tablecloth that had miraculously appeared, its surface perfectly flat against the soft sand.

As Pinkie glanced over at Adagio and the other former sirens, her smile widened. "And I brought plenty for everyone! You should totally have some too," she chirped, extending an invitation to join in the impromptu feast.

Sonata's eyes sparkled with excitement at Pinkie's offer, her grin widening as she nodded eagerly. "That sounds great!" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious. "And guess what? I brought a picnic to share too!"

Turning to Sunset, Sonata's smile softened with genuine warmth. "I remembered to include some vegan dishes for you Sunset," she added, her voice gentle and considerate. "I always make vegetarian stuff for Fluttershy anyway, so I made sure there's plenty that both of you can enjoy."

Sunset's expression softened with gratitude as she turned to Sonata, her voice filled with sincerity. "Thank you, Sonata. I really appreciate it," she said, her words carrying a warmth that made the former siren let out a happy squeak of delight.

Fluttershy's eyes shimmered with fondness as she looked at Sonata, a soft smile gracing her lips. "Sonata is a wonderful friend," she declared, her voice gentle yet filled with conviction.

Rarity raises an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Sounds like it, darling," she commented, her tone laced with gentle teasing. "Now do tell.. Do you often indulge in festivities that result in, hmm, having hangovers?"





After a quick bite to eat, Fluttershy's gentle voice carried a hint of excitement as she pulled out goggles from her beach bag, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I can't wait to make friends with some fishies!  Does anyone want to go for a swim with me?" she asked, extending the offer to her friends.

Rarity graciously declined, offering her thanks with a smile. "Oh, thank you, Fluttershy, but you know beach hair isn't really my style," she replied, her tone not at all apologetic.

Fluttershy laughed softly as she began to peel off her floaty summer dress, the fabric falling away to reveal a shiny black, thong backed swimsuit underneath. However, her laughter faltered as she noticed the surprised stares of her friends.

Applejack was the first to articulate the group's shock, her voice tinged with disbelief. "Well, I'll be darned," she murmured, her gaze lingering on Fluttershy's outfit until her girlfriend shoved her in the ribs.

Rainbow Dash couldn't help but chime in, her tone laced with amusement. "Whoa, Fluttershy, you're really showing off those butterfly tattoos on your butt," she remarked, her grin widening mischievously.

Fluttershy's cheeks flushed pink with embarrassment as she mumbled in response, "It's not that outrageous..."

Adagio's gaze flicked over Fluttershy's figure with a sardonic smirk, her tone laced with a hint of mockery. "Well, well, Fluttershy," she remarked dryly, "it seems you've been quite meticulous with your grooming. Is that a landing strip or a full wax?" Her words leaving Fluttershy flustered and at a loss for words as she stumbled over her response, while Adagio watched, relishing the discomfort she caused.

Before the conversation could continue, the girls were startled by an angry shout from nearby surfers. A passerby had accidentally tripped over a stack of boards, causing a commotion that drew their attention away from Fluttershy's swimsuit.

Twilight's voice stuttered slightly as she asked the question that hung on everyone's minds. "Uh, Fluttershy, where did you get it?" she inquired, her curiosity getting the best of her.

Fluttershy's blush deepened as she responded, her voice soft but steady as she nervously smoothed and adjusted the clingy black fabric. "Oh, um, I saw it on a website that was linked from where I buy my ballet equipment," she explained, her words coming out in a rush.

Applejack, ever the pragmatist, seized the opportunity to change the subject, her voice light and cheerful. "Well, that's mighty interesting, Fluttershy. How about I splash around with ya?" she suggested, slipping her daisy dukes off as she prepared to join her friend in the water.

Adagio leaned in towards Sunset, her voice lowered to a whisper as she posed a question tinged with amusement. "Do you think Fluttershy realises that it's a pole dancing outfit?" she asked, her tone laden with curiosity.

Sunset shook her head, her expression reflecting genuine uncertainty. "Honestly, I don't know," she replied, her voice equally quiet. "Fluttershy can be… full of surprises recently."

Twilight's voice joined the conversation, her tone thoughtful as she added her perspective. "You know, I definitely saw another side of Fluttershy during the festival weekend," she remarked.

Sunset nodded in agreement, her gaze drifting towards Fluttershy with a newfound curiosity. "Yeah, she really seemed to come out of her shell.  I think Sonata's really been an influence on her since then" she mused, her tone not entirely approving.

Fluttershy's laughter echoed across the water as she splashed around with Applejack, her carefree demeanour a stark contrast to the shy and reserved girl they knew. It was clear that recent events had brought out a different side of her, one that was bolder and unafraid to embrace new experiences.

Adagio chuckled softly at Sunset's response, a smirk playing at the corners of her lips. "Well, it's not exactly uncomplimentary on her," she remarked, her gaze drifting over to Pinkie, who was bouncing about with her usual boundless energy. "Especially not next to Pinkie, whose swimsuit looks like it's ready for a burlesque show."

Sunset couldn't suppress a laugh at the comparison, finding it both amusing and oddly apt with the ruffles and corseting of Pinkie's swim costume. Despite the slightly mean-spirited banter, she couldn't deny the truth in Adagio's observation. With Pinkie's boundless energy and penchant for theatrics, she wouldn't have looked out of place in a cabaret bar, splashing about in an oversized champagne flute amidst a flurry of glitter and confetti.

Sunset's gaze swept across the beach, a thoughtful expression crossing her features as she contemplated her friends' newfound boldness. With a hint of determination, she reached down to untie the wrap around her waist, letting it fall to the sand in a soft heap.

Rarity, always one to appreciate style and confidence, understood Sunset's gesture and offered a supportive nod. "There's no reason to hide your cutie mark now, darling," she remarked, her voice filled with encouragement. "Especially not when Fluttershy has stolen everyone's spotlight."

Adagio's surprise was palpable as she turned to Sunset, her curiosity piqued. "Why did you feel the need to cover that up?" she inquired, her tone sharp and inquisitive.

Twisting around to look at where the V of her swim pants curved above the distinctive sunburst marks, Sunset shrugged. "It wasn't exactly in keeping with my teenage appearance when I first arrived," she admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of self-awareness. "But it seems silly to hide it now.”

Adagio's laughter bubbled up as she turned her attention to Sunset, her amusement evident in the playful glint in her eyes. "You know," she remarked, her tone mischievous and teasing, "I recall Sonata telling me about when Fluttershy got those tattoos done. I thought Sonata must've got her blackout drunk to do it.”

Sunset furrowed her brow, her voice measured as she contradicted Adagio's assumption. "You're mistaken," she said, firmly. "The tattoos were Fluttershy's idea, not Sonata's. Amazing as it might seem, I think she'd had something like it on her mind for a while beforehand." Sunset's words carried a sense of conviction, emphasising her belief in Fluttershy's autonomy and agency in deciding to get the tattoos.

Adagio's incredulous gaze swept across the trio of Sunset, Twilight, and Rarity as she struggled to comprehend the idea of Fluttershy, of all people, getting tattooed. "Why was that?" she asked, her tone laced with disbelief. "Why would she want them to start with?"

Sunset, always quick to provide an explanation, offered, "Uh, I guess she got interested after learning about cutie marks."

Adagio's reaction was immediate and dismissive. "Why'd she care about those destiny tramp-stamps," she scoffed, the derision evident in her voice.

Rarity, bristling at the description, interjected, "I heard that your kind didn't get them.  It's something only ponies have."

Adagio's expression hardened, her eyes narrowing with barely contained anger. "Only ponies care about such deterministic crap," she retorted sharply, “sea kelpies choose their own destinies.”

The alabaster skinned girl leaned forwards and hissed, her eyes narrowed dangerously. “Yes Darling? Is that why you became a Siren and got trapped here?”

Sensing the tension rising, Sunset attempted to defuse the situation. "Maybe Fluttershy wanted one because of her affinity with other creatures," she suggested diplomatically. "Perhaps she wanted to feel a little more like a pony." 

Adagio's laughter cut through the air, sharp and mocking. "Slightly less pathetic than this form, I suppose," she remarked, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

"I don't know about that, but we all have them now, darling," Rarity announced, her voice carrying a note of pride, “despite some of us, ahem, being a little unsure at the time.”  She shifted round on her towel, revealing two of the three diamond shapes on her left hindquarters peeking out below the hem of her swimsuit. 

Adagio arched an eyebrow in surprise. "All of you?" she inquired, her curiosity piqued.

Twilight nodded, pulling up the short bustle that hemmed the bottom of her swimsuit to reveal a few stars peeking out. "We sure do," she confirmed. 

Pinkie looked up from the picnic, her eyes shining with excitement. "Yeah!" she exclaimed. "Since we all have some of the same magic as our pony doubles, it felt like we should be more like them!”

Sunset chimed in, her tone light. "Except for me, of course, since I'm from Equestria," she explained, a small smile playing on her lips, “I don't have a double there.”

Twilight's voice carried a hint of introspection as she spoke up, her gaze distant as she reflected on her encounter with her counterpart. "I'm the only one here who's met my twin," she stated, her tone tinged with a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty.

Adagio's eyes widened in intrigue as she considered Twilight's words. "That must've been weird," she mused, a mischievous grin playing at the corners of her lips. "I'm relieved there wasn't some awful magical feedback that destroyed the world when you two were together."

Twilight gasped in horror, her eyes widening with fear. "I-I didn't know that was a possibility!" she gasped, her voice filled with genuine alarm.

Adagio's grin widened at Twilight's reaction, her tone laced with joyful malice. "Oh, relax," she reassured, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I'm just teasing you. But it must've been strange meeting yourself."

Twilight sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly as she admitted, "It was hard not to be a bit intimidated, considering my double is some kind of super heroic magical princess.”





Sunset, worried about hostility lingering around the discussion of Equestria and her friends, so delicately redirected the conversation back toward the former sirens.  "I'm curious," she began, her voice carrying a thoughtful tone, her brow furrowed with genuine concern, "how have you been coping without your powers? Are the Dazzlings making enough as a band to get by now?" Her question held genuine curiosity, reflecting her interest in understanding the challenges and adjustments the former sirens had faced since losing their magical abilities.

Adagio's response was laced with a hint of condescension as she flashed a knowing smile. "One of the benefits of living for hundreds of years is compound interest. We've had a long time to acquire wealth" she replied cryptically, her tone dripping with an air of superiority. It was clear that she believed the financial affairs of the Dazzlings were well in hand, thanks to their long and storied existence.

Twilight's curiosity was piqued by Adagio's cryptic response, prompting her to delve deeper into the intricacies of economic theory. "What about the competing forces of interest and inflation?" she inquired, her tone tinged with academic curiosity.

Adagio's gaze sharpened as she considered the question, her expression turning contemplative. "The key," she began, her voice carrying a hint of authority, "is land and weapons. There's only so much of the former, and people will forever want better ways of warring with each other.  So that's where to put your assets, if you've got the luxury of playing a long game."

Sunset, taken aback by the stark pragmatism of Adagio's answer, couldn't help but interject. "That's... kinda bleak," she remarked, her voice tinged with unease at the implications of Adagio's words.

Adagio, however, remained unmoved by Sunset's observation. "You can't say it's inaccurate," she countered, her tone matter-of-fact. In her eyes, the harsh realities of the world were simply truths to be acknowledged, no matter how unsettling they may be.

Sunset, feeling somewhat unsure of how to navigate Adagio's blunt reply about the Dazzlings' livelihood, paraphrased what Adagio had said. “So you're ok then, despite losing your powers. I'm glad.” It was a diplomatic response, aiming to maintain a sense of neutrality while also avoiding delving too deeply into the specifics of the former sirens' current circumstances.

Adagio's confidence remained unwavering as she continued, her tone laced with a sense of assurance. "We are very comfortable," she asserted, her words carrying an air of certainty. "The Dazzlings are merely a side hustle."

Sunset couldn't help but challenge Adagio's assertion, her observations from their performances contradicting her words. "But you all looked truly happy when performing," she pointed out, her voice tinged with sincerity.

Adagio's expression softened slightly at Sunset's observation, a begrudging acknowledgment of the truth in her words. "After so long using song to feed," she admitted, her tone tinged with a hint of nostalgia, "there is a comforting feeling in being on stage." 

Sunset's relief was palpable. “I'm truly glad you're doing okay,” she said, the compassion in her voice clear and genuine. 

However, Aria's response cut through the moment with a derisive snort, her words dripping with cynicism. "We'd never tell anyone if we weren't," she remarked curtly, her tone revealing her pride.

Adagio interjected quickly, seeking to dispel any notion of hardship. "We learned to cope, when we first arrived," she insisted, her voice tinged with a hint of defensiveness. "Apart from magic, this world wasn't so different from Equestria at the time."

Sunset's laughter filled the air as she responded, her tone light despite the weight of her words. "I wish I could say the same," she admitted with a wistful smile.

Adagio's curiosity was piqued by Sunset's cryptic remark, prompting her to inquire further. "What do you mean?" she asked, her tone tinged with curiosity.

Sunset's expression grew sombre as she considered her response. "Honestly, it doesn't sound like the Equestria the sirens knew was so different from how it was when I was growing up," she confessed, her voice tinged with a hint of melancholy, “but here there's so much technology.”

Adagio's eyes widened in realisation as Sunset's words sunk in. "This world has changed, but slowly so we didn't notice any single shift," she admitted, her voice carrying a note of resignation, “but it's hard to imagine much changing in Equestria… unless something happened to take all the magic away and drive the pony tribes apart, but that's not going to happen.  Tell me Sunset, how did you survive when you first arrived?”

Sunset grimaced at the memory, a flicker of discomfort crossing her features as she recalled the challenges of adjusting to life in a new world. "It was a stroke of luck that Ponish was so similar to the language here," she remarked, her voice tinged with relief. "Otherwise, I'd have struggled much more."

Adagio nodded in agreement, her expression thoughtful as she considered Sunset's words. "It is an amazing coincidence," she mused, acknowledging the fortuitous circumstances that had eased their transition to this world.

Sunset continued, her tone tinged with a hint of wonder. "I found that the everyday gems and bits we used as small change in Equestria turned out to be amazingly valuable here," she revealed, a note of gratitude in her voice. 

Adagio's sneer twisted her features into a contemptuous expression as she directed her gaze towards Sunset. "You're lucky," she scoffed, the bitterness evident in her voice. "When Starswirl banished us to this world, we had nothing. No power, no resources, nothing to sustain us." Her words carried the weight of resentment, highlighting the hardships they endured upon their arrival in this unfamiliar realm. Sunset listened somberly, realising the depth of their struggle in adapting to their new existence.

Sunset's expression softened almost apologetically as she delved further into her past. "My problem was that, despite being loaded, I was a parentless child alone in this world," she stated, her voice tinged with sadness.

Adagio posed a question, her tone laced with curiosity as she observed Sunset's appearance. "Do you think that you were younger here than in Equestria?"

Sunset considered the inquiry, her brow furrowing in thought as she reflected on her experiences. "It does seem that way," she responds, her voice thoughtful. "Perhaps it's just the nature of this world, but if I'd been a genuine foal I wouldn't have survived." 

Adagio's curiosity was piqued as she considered Sunset's journey into this world and the challenges she must have faced. "How did you manage to build a life for yourself?" she inquired, her tone laced with genuine interest. 

Her gaze drifted momentarily, lost in memories of a time long gone. "Luckily, after sleeping rough in an abandoned shed at Sweet Apple Acres, I found a shelter for abused women and girls that took me in," she continued, her tone carrying a note of gratitude for the support she had received in her time of need.

Adagio's response was sharp and dismissive. "I'd rather sleep on the streets," she declared, her tone brimming with pride and defiance.

"At least it gave me an address." She paused. "As it turned out, there had been a Sunset Shimmer in the school system previously.  So I could transfer back, sort of.”

Adagio's scepticism was palpable. “As simple as that?” she sneered, her expression betraying a hint of doubt.

Sunset let out a weary sigh, her shoulders slumping slightly as she prepared to share a piece of herself with Adagio and her friends. "Not really.  Do you know what my special talent is?" she asked, her voice tinged with vulnerability.

Adagio responded with a spiteful smirk, her words laced with disdain. "I didn't think you had one," she retorted, her tone dripping with sarcasm. 

Sunset couldn't help but feel the sting of Adagio's words, a reminder of the lingering animosity between them. “I do,” she continued, “it's…it's manipulation.”

Sunset's admission hung heavy in the air. Intrigued, Adagio leaned forward, her curiosity piqued as she sought to understand Sunset's revelation. "What do you mean?" she inquired, her tone betraying a hint of fascination.

Sunset let out a weary sigh, the weight of her words bearing down on her. "Isn't it obvious?" she replied, her voice tinged with resignation. "I can talk people into doing what I want, if I choose to." 

"That certainly explains how you were able to control an entire school," Rarity remarked, her tone carrying a note of realisation.

Sunset's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she responded, her voice tinged with regret. "I wouldn't use my talent so selfishly now," she exclaimed, her words filled with remorse for the mistakes of her past.

Twilight leaned forward, her expression thoughtful as she posed a question. "Does it work on everyone?" she inquired, her curiosity evident in her voice.

Sunset shook her head slowly, a rueful smile playing at her lips. "There were only ever two who it didn't work on," she explained, her tone tinged with admiration. "Princess Celestia and Princess Twilight Sparkle, both of whom seemed to be totally incorruptible."

Adagio's response was swift and dismissive, her scepticism evident in her tone. "Everyone has a weakness," she scoffed, her words carrying a hint of disgust, “but how did that help when you first arrived?”

Sunset's narrative unfolded with a mixture of vulnerability and determination, her voice carrying the weight of her past experiences. "With a few gems and my talent, I was able to coerce one of the women at the shelter to be my 'mother'," she confessed, her words laced with a sense of resignation. "She helped me fill in forms and get enrolled in high school."

Adagio's curiosity was piqued as she listened to Sunset's tale, her expression betraying a hint of sympathy. "Are you still at the shelter?" she inquired, her voice tinged with genuine interest.

Sunset shook her head slowly, a faint smile touching her lips. "No, I just about had enough in gems and bits to buy a small apartment," she explained, her tone carrying a note of pride. "So, I've been living alone for the last few years, making enough money to get by."

Twilight's gasp of amazement echoed through the conversation, her eyes widening in surprise. "I knew you had your own place now, but I never realised you lived alone since starting high school," she exclaimed, her voice tinged with admiration.

Sunset's smile widened at Twilight's reaction, a sense of pride evident in her expression. "It seems like ponies mature a little quicker," she remarked, her tone tinged with a hint of amusement. "So, I was a bit more capable than it might have seemed." 

“But still,” Twilight countered, “that you managed as, well, an adult whilst attending school. It's amazing.”

Sunset shrugged modestly. “Well I'm probably just making trouble for myself down the line, as everything's in my ‘mom’s’ name.  I'm basically an illegal alien after all, or maybe an identity thief… either way it'll probably catch up with me one day.”

"If things get too difficult, you could always return to Equestria," Adagio pointed out, her tone tinged with a hint of sympathy.

Adagio's suggestion hung in the air, the weight of its implication making the friends uncomfortable.  Finally Sunset let out a weary sigh, her thoughts drifting back to the world she had left behind. "Even now, I'm not so sure," she confessed, her voice laced with uncertainty. "There's no family waiting for me there, and even though Princess Celestia has forgiven me, I couldn't return to my old life." 

Sunset's confession cast a shadow over the conversation, the weight of her words settling over the group like a heavy blanket. A sombre silence descended, each girl lost in her own thoughts as they contemplated the difficult choices that might lie ahead for their friend. In the quietude of the moment, the gentle rhythm of the ocean waves served as a poignant backdrop, a reminder of the ebb and flow of life's uncertainties.





Pinkie's restlessness grew as the conversation stalled and the other girls lounged about in the bright sunlight. Unable to contain her energy any longer, she bounced up with a wide grin. "Hey, who wants to get ice-cream?" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm contagious.

Sonata's eyes lit up with excitement as she eagerly waved her hand in the air. "Ooh, ooh, me! I do!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with anticipation.

With a huge grin spreading across her face, Pinkie seized Sonata by the arm and led her off down the beach, her steps light and energetic. Together, they made their way towards a nearby boardwalk.  With each giggle and skip, Sonata's infectious energy filled the air, infusing the beach with a sense of lightheartedness and joy. As she danced along the water's edge, her carefree spirit was a beacon of happiness amidst the tranquil beauty of the ocean.

Rainbow Dash, ever eager for action, seized the opportunity as she grabbed the ball she had brought along. "Anyone up for a game?" she called out, her voice brimming with enthusiasm.

Aria looked up from her spot on the sand, a hint of interest replacing the sullen glare in her eyes. "I could use some exercise if I'm going to have both Sonata's and Pinkie's picnics," she remarked with a sneer, her competitive spirit ignited.

Rainbow Dash grinned in response to Aria's challenge, her competitive spirit rising to the occasion. "You better bring your ‘A’ game!" she called out teasingly, her voice filled with playful bravado.

Aria shot back with a smirk, her own competitive nature shining through. "I don't have any other kind," she retorted confidently, her tone dripping with contempt.

As the two of them headed off towards the volleyball nets, Sunset and Adagio exchanged amused glances, both rolling their eyes in mutual disapproval of the competitive posturing. Despite their differences, they found common ground in their shared exasperation at Rainbow and Aria's antics.

At that moment, Fluttershy and Applejack returned from their refreshing swim, their laughter echoing across the beach. With a playful gleam in her eye, Applejack teased Rarity by leaning in as if to kiss her, letting her wet hair drip onto her girlfriend's shoulder.

Rarity let out an indignant squeal, feigning annoyance at Applejack's antics before breaking into a playful smirk. "Honestly, darling, must you always make such a mess?" she chided, her tone light and teasing.

Kneeling on a towel Fluttershy gently wrung the water from her hair, the gentle sea breeze giving her goosebumps as the water dried on her skin. With a nimble movement, she crawled forward to retrieve a hairband from her bag.  As she straightened up, there was a muffled thud nearby as a passerby stumbled into a hole that some children had dug in the sand.

Ignoring the commotion with a roll of her eyes, Fluttershy settled down next to Adagio, a look of earnest determination on her face. "There's something I wanted to ask you," she began in her soft voice, “something Sonata said has been troubling me.”

Adagio sneered as she directed her attention towards Fluttershy. "So, has that airhead been mean to this timid little mouse?" she taunted, her tone dripping with disdain.

Fluttershy shook her head, her expression resolute. "No, it's nothing like that," she replied, her voice steady. "And Sonata's not an airhead."

Adagio waved Fluttershy's defence away with a dismissive flick of her hand, her curiosity piqued. "Well, then, what is it that you want to know?" she demanded, her tone impatient.

Fluttershy took a deep breath, her gaze steady as she posed her question. "Sonata mentioned that being a siren was a curse," she explained, her voice soft but earnest. "I just want to know if that's true."

Adagio sighed, her expression softening as she turned to Sunset. "What do you know of sea kelpies, Equestrian?" she asked.

Sunset's brow furrowed in concentration as she searched her memory for information. "Sea kelpies were aggressive and territorial," she began, her voice thoughtful. "They lived in family groups or, in rare cases, gangs."

Adagio's curiosity only seemed to grow as she pressed for more details about sea kelpie civilization and culture. “You speak in the past tense,” she prompted, “is there not still trade between our species?” 

Sunset's expression fell slightly as she shook her head apologetically. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice tinged with regret. "As far as I recall kelpies are almost seen as mythical beasts, fairytale creatures from a bygone age.”

A sigh escaped Adagio's lips, her demeanour visibly shaken by Sunset's words. "It wasn't always that way," she murmured, her voice carrying a weight of sorrow and regret.

Fluttershy leaned in with a question. “There was some link between the sea kelpies and the sirens? Some dependency?”

Adagio nodded solemnly, her expression grave as she confirmed Fluttershy's inquiry. "Yes, that's exactly it," she admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness.

Her gaze distant, Adagio continued, recounting a tale from her past. "It's true that by nature, sea kelpies are aggressive and confrontational.  In my time, there was a wise kelpie scholar who devised an enchantment," she explained, her words carrying the weight of history. "This enchantment dulled the kelpies' insular nature and helped them work together, eventually leading to the creation of a great civilization in the sea."

Twilight's curiosity was piqued as she interjected with a question of her own. "Did this enchantment have something to do with the Sirens?" she asked, her voice filled with intrigue.

Adagio's nod confirmed Twilight's suspicions, her expression grim as she delved deeper into the tale. "Yes," she replied, her voice heavy with regret. "The spell locked all the kelpies' negativity inside a small group who were cursed to bear the burden for their species."

She paused, her gaze darkening as she continued. "These cursed individuals were forever tasked with spreading negative emotions in other species to feed the enchantment," she explained, her words carrying the weight of centuries-old sorrow. "It was a heavy burden to bear, one that cursed not only the sirens but also those who unwittingly fell under their influence.”

Twilight gasped in realisation, her eyes widening with shock as the gravity of Adagio's words sank in. "So, you and the other sirens had been trapped in that curse for hundreds of years?" she exclaimed, her voice filled with disbelief and sympathy.

Adagio's expression darkened with sorrow as she nodded in confirmation. "Yes," she confirmed, her voice heavy with the weight of the centuries-old burdens. "Despite our efforts to bear the curse, it seems the sea kelpie civilization collapsed after we were banished from Equestria."

Sunset murmured her sympathy, her voice soft with understanding. "This must be a terrible shock for you," she said gently, her eyes reflecting the weight of Adagio's revelation.

Adagio's response was tinged with resignation as she acknowledged Sunset's words. "It might have been inevitable," she admitted, her voice heavy with sorrow.

Twilight's curiosity prompted her to inquire further. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Adagio sighed, her gaze distant as she explained the grim reality. "The truth is, Twilight, that Aria, Sonata, and I were the last of the Sirens anyway," she confessed, her voice tinged with sadness. "Although being made into a siren would make a kelpie immortal, they could still be killed and our sisters all succumbed to accident or violence. The problem was, the mage who made us had died centuries before, so no more sirens could be enchanted.”

Adagio continued her narrative, her voice carrying the weight of centuries-old burdens. "The three of us worked harder to contain the negative energies of our people, but it meant we drew attention to ourselves," she explained, her tone tinged with frustration.

Sunset interjected with a single word, "Starswirl."

Adagio's scowl deepened at the name, her resentment evident. "All we did was make fights break out in villages or the occasional territorial dispute between neighbours," she spat, her voice laced with bitterness. "But Starswirl couldn't accept that an entire civilization rested on the detriment of a few ponies.”

Rarity propped her chin on her hand, addressing the elder siren. “That's why you got banished?”

Rarity's question brought a sombre nod from Adagio, her expression reflecting the weight of their shared history. "Yes, that's precisely why we were banished," she confirmed, her voice heavy with resentment. "In his pompous self-righteousness, Starswirl singlehoofedly brought about the collapse of my species because it came at the expense of a few quarrelling farmers."

Sunset's gasp of disbelief filled the air as she processed the revelation. "That's... not unreasonable," she exclaimed, her voice filled with indignation. "The sea kelpies based their success on others' misfortune."

Adagio's response was measured, her tone carrying a hint of defiance. "Only if you value individual ponies' lives as more important than another species’ whole civilization, as Starswirl did," she countered, her gaze unwavering as she challenged their preconceived notions of morality and justice.

Sunset sighed softly, her gaze thoughtful as she weighed the implications of Adagio's words. "I suppose you have a point," she conceded, her tone tinged with reluctant agreement. Despite the discomfort it brought, she couldn't deny the validity of Adagio's perspective, forcing her to reconsider her own beliefs and values.





After a brief warm-up, Rainbow Dash and Aria Blaze stood on opposite sides of the volleyball net. The sun beat down upon the beach, causing a harsh glare from the sand as a gentle breeze rustled through their hair, making a stark contrast to the explosive show of agility from the players. With each serve and spike, their athleticism was on full display, their movements fluid and powerful as they traded points with neither gaining the upper hand.

Rainbow's nimbleness and speed were matched only by Aria's strength and precision, creating a dynamic and exhilarating match that kept the other beachgoers entertained watching the lithe girls darting around the court. Rainbow sprinted across the sand with lightning speed, her rainbow-coloured hair streaming behind her as she leaped high into the air to deliver a powerful spike. Meanwhile, Aria's muscles rippled with strength as she blocked Rainbow's shots and returned them with equal force, her competitive spirit burning bright.

As the game reached its climax, Rainbow Dash's relentless onslaught finally began to wear down Aria's defences. With each powerful serve and spike, Aria found herself repeatedly diving to scoop the ball back into the air, her movements becoming more frantic as she struggled to keep up with Rainbow's lightning-fast attacks.

Despite Aria's valiant efforts, Rainbow's skill and determination proved to be too much to handle. With each dive and volley, Rainbow gained a few points advantage, steadily pulling ahead in the match. Aria fought fiercely, refusing to back down even as she felt the match slipping through her fingers with each desperate lunge.

But then, as Aria lunged for one final desperate attempt to keep the ball in play, her footing faltered on the shifting sand beneath her. With a cry of frustration, she tumbled to the ground, her body sprawling onto the warm sand. Rainbow Dash stood breathing heavily on the other side of the net, a cocky grin spreading across her face as she locked eyes with her opponent.  

Aria, brushed the sand off herself as she rose to her feet and rolled the ball back to her Wondercolts rival.  She made a show of staring down her opponent, a determined glint in her eyes as she prepared for the next serve.  As Rainbow picked up the ball, she couldn't resist a bit of playful trash talk. "Get ready, Aria! This serve's gonna kill ya!" she called out confidently, her competitive spirit shining through.

However, as the ball rocketed by her opponent, Rainbow's triumphant grin faded into shock. Aria stood frozen in place, her expression sombre as she whispered a chilling response. "You already have," she murmured quietly, her words carrying a weight of sorrow and pain.  She turned and trudged away, her steps heavy and dejected, as she walked towards the sand dunes.

Rainbow Dash stared after her, her mouth hanging open in surprise and her playful bravado melting away in an instant. Without hesitation, she ducked under the net and chased after Aria, her concern outweighing any desire for victory on the volleyball court.

Rainbow called out desperately for Aria to wait, her voice tinged with concern as she hurried after the suddenly downcast girl. Meanwhile, the others watched as Aria slumped down in the space between two dunes, her demeanour suddenly appearing lost and vulnerable.

Crouching down beside her, Rainbow's expression softened with genuine concern. "What was that about?" she asked gently, her voice filled with empathy.

Aria looked up at her, tears glistening in her eyes, as she struggled to put her feelings into words. "You don't get it, Rainbow," she whispered hoarsely, her voice filled with pain and sadness.

Rainbow's brow furrowed with confusion as she reached out to gently touch Aria's shoulder. "What is it that I don't get?" she asked softly, her voice laced with genuine concern for her friend.

Aria's expression hardened as she met Rainbow's gaze whilst knocking her hand away, her tone bitter and resentful. "The victims don't usually have to socialise with their murderers," she spat out, her words laced with anger and sorrow.

Aria's words hit Rainbow like a punch to the gut, her shock and confusion evident on her face as she struggled to comprehend what the other girl was saying. "What do you mean, Aria?" she asked, her voice filled with disbelief.

As Rainbow's eyes widened in horror, Aria continued, her voice trembling with emotion. "Until the Battle of the Bands, Adagio, Sonata, and I were immortal," she explained, her voice cracking with emotion. "The hunger sometimes made things miserable, but the deal was we were going to live forever. Now... now we'll all get old and rot away. I can feel it, Rainbow… every day.”

Rainbow's heart shattered at Aria's accusation, her voice trembling with disbelief and sorrow as she tried to defend their actions. "That's not what we meant to do," she stammered, her words choked with emotion. "We were just... trying to protect the school."

Aria's voice cut through the air, sharp and biting. "You crippled us!" she shouted, her words carrying a bitter edge. “And we had to flee from the mob! They… they would have…”

Rainbow's expression softened, her voice taking on a more sombre tone. "We would've protected you. I would've made sure no one hurt you." Her words were sincere. “We did it before with Sunset. We'd have helped you too.”

Aria's shook her head, seeming to be reliving a sight she'd never forget, her voice edged with bitterness. "I've seen it before," she retorted. "When a siren gets torn to pieces by a crowd. No one can stop that, the madness… the blood.”

Rainbow collapsed to her knees on the sand, the weight of Aria's words crashing down upon her like a tidal wave. Horror etched across her features, she asked in a horrified voice, "You've really seen that?" The image of such brutality, of a siren being torn apart, was too much to bear.

Aria turned away, unable to meet Rainbow's gaze. Tears welled in her eyes as she nodded slowly, each movement heavy with the weight of her memories. "Yes," she admitted, her voice choked with emotion. "I had to watch, powerless, as the song of a siren was broken.  I know what happens next with scared and angry people. Watching as they tear someone limb from fin, alive and screaming."

Rainbow's heart ached with sympathy and revulsion. "That's horrible," she breathed, the words heavy with disbelief and sorrow. "Nobody deserves that."

But Aria remained unrepentant, her anger and resentment unyielding as tears streamed down her face, and her usually stoic facade crumbling under the weight of her pent-up emotions.  Pale and stricken, Rainbow Dash was frozen in place with a look of desperation in her eyes, her outstretched hand pleading for reconciliation.  But Aria's heart remained hardened, her pain too deep to be assuaged by mere words. With a heavy sigh, she turned her back on Rainbow Dash, unable to bear the vulnerability in her eyes, the rawness of her emotions threatening to engulf her once more.

Aria's silent retreat spoke of her wounded spirit, and seeking solace in solitude rather than facing the painful truths that lay before her. And as she hugged herself, the rift between her and Rainbow Dash seemed to widen, a gaping chasm of unresolved conflicts and shattered certainty.

Rainbow was shaken from her paralysis by a gentle hand on her shoulder. Startled, she turned to find Fluttershy's compassionate eyes gazing down at her, a silent reassurance in their depths. It was as if Fluttershy's presence alone communicated that Aria needed time to navigate through her emotions and find her own path toward healing.

Taking a deep breath, Rainbow drew comfort from her friend's understanding gaze. With a grateful nod, she gathered her resolve and rejoined the others, settling close to Fluttershy's side as though seeking solace in her unwavering support. In the midst of uncertainty and turmoil, Fluttershy's quiet strength provided a beacon of hope, a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there was light to be found in the kindness and compassion of others.





Adagio observed Aria's stormy outburst with a knowing gaze, her eyebrow quirking at the bashful demeanour of Rainbow Dash as she rejoined her friends. With a subtle shift of her attention, Adagio addressed the others, her voice carrying a weight of resignation.

"It seems that despite centuries of still having to feed the enchantment, none of the benefit was being reaped in Equestria," she stated matter-of-factly, her words tinged with a hint of bitterness. As she spoke, the reality of their situation weighed heavily on her mind, a reminder of the sacrifices they had made and the consequences that had unfolded over the centuries.

Twilight's curiosity piqued as she leaned forward, her eyes filled with intrigue. "What do you mean by feeding the enchantment?" she inquired, her voice laced with curiosity.

Adagio sighed softly, her gaze distant as she explained the grim reality. "It's as it sounds," she replied, her voice tinged with resignation. "Generating negative emotions fed another hunger within us, one that couldn't be sated by other means, no matter how we felt about it.”

Twilight pressed further, her curiosity unyielding as she probed deeper into Adagio's emotions. "How did you feel about causing conflict in other beings?" she asked, her voice gentle yet probing.

With her eyes downcast, Adagio hesitated for a moment before responding, her voice soft and laden with sorrow. "Are you familiar with this world's stories of vampires?" she asked, her tone heavy with resignation.

Twilight nodded, her expression serious as she acknowledged the reference. "Of course, creatures who feed off the life force of others," she replied, her voice filled with understanding.

Adagio sighed heavily, her shoulders slumping as she spoke. "In some tales, the vampires are tormented by their corruption," she explained, her words tinged with regret. "They know that they are condemning others to prolong their own existence, and they hate that this is their reality." 

With a look of sincere empathy on her face, Twilight pressed on. “That sounds horrible,” she whispered.

Adagio's cynical laugh pierced the air, a bitter echo of her inner turmoil as she spoke. "That wasn't me," she laughed, her voice tinged with bitterness. "I loved every bit of pain and hurt I caused. I bathed in chaos. It was what I was hatched for."

Twilight and Sunset recoiled in shock at her admission, their expressions a mixture of horror and disbelief. The revelation of Adagio's true nature sent a chill down their spines, casting a shadow over their understanding of the former siren.

Adagio's gaze hardened further, her tone laced with contempt as she spoke of her former companion. "Aria was just as driven by her deeply held disdain for every being she encountered," she replied coldly, her words dripping with poison.  Aria indolently looked over and flipped Adagio off, which just seemed to amused the elder siren.

As the weight of Adagio's words settled upon them, Twilight and Sunset exchanged troubled glances, grappling with the unsettling truth of their former adversaries' motivations and desires.

Fluttershy's gentle voice cut through the tension, her concern evident as she spoke. "What about Sonata?" she inquired, her gaze soft but unwavering as she sought to understand her friend's past.

Adagio's cold stare met Fluttershy's eyes, her tone unyielding as she spoke of Sonata's past actions, painting a vivid picture of her former companion's ruthlessness. "Don't be fooled by her innocent facade," Adagio warned, her tone laced with bitterness. "Sonata was spawned from the same school.  Just as corrupt and vicious as any of us. She revelled in spreading distrust and fear wherever we went, feasting in the chaos we wrought."

With a scornful scowl, Adagio continued, her words cutting through the air like sharpened blades. "But look at her now," she spat, her contempt palpable. "Centuries of exile and hunger took their toll, reducing her to nothing more than a shell of her former self. The once cunning and manipulative siren has been replaced by this vacant, childlike semblance of innocence you see before you today." There was a hint of bitterness in Adagio's voice as she spoke, a bitter reminder of the passage of time and the toll it had taken on all of them.

Fluttershy gathered her courage, her voice steady as she offered a heartfelt retort. "I don't care for what Sonata was like before," she declared, her tone firm but compassionate. "Only that she is a true friend now."





Whilst Adagio had spoken, she was oblivious of Sonata's return.  The former siren stood at the edge of the surf, her presence unnoticed by the others. The suddenly forlorn looking figure had heard every barb uttered by her fellow exile. It was Fluttershy who noticed her first, observing Sonata's initial sadness from her bowed head and the arms hanging limply at her sides. But as she moved to comfort her friend, she detected a growing undercurrent of anger simmering beneath the surface.

Fluttershy felt a pang of concern as she watched Sonata's expression shift from sadness to frustration, her grip tightening on the empty ice-cream cone which had deposited its sweet contents on the sand at her feet and her features contorted with suppressed emotion. With each passing moment, the anger within Sonata seemed to intensify, building like a storm on the horizon, ready to unleash its fury at any moment.

Sensing the brewing maelstrom of emotions within Sonata, Fluttershy hesitated, unsure of how to approach when her friend was in such a volatile state. A fleeting glance from Sonata’s magenta eyes halted her in her tracks, the silent warning in her eyes speaking volumes. 

As Adagio finally turned to acknowledge Sonata's presence, a mocking laugh escaped her lips. “Well look who it is, miss vacuum for brains, back from getting ice-cream with the fluffy headed lunatic.” 

Sonata's pent-up anger erupted like a volcano, her voice cutting through the air with raw intensity.  "You think I don't know what I used to be?" Sonata's words were sharp and biting, her eyes blazing with righteous fury as she confronted Adagio. "Well, guess what? I do! And you know what else? I'm glad I've moved on from that, unlike you and Aria, who've become nothing but hollow bitter gourds!"

Her voice reverberated with defiance, each word laced with the weight of centuries-old resentment and frustration. As the echoes of her outburst faded, there was a tense silence, the air heavy with the weight of her words.  Adagio stood stunned, her mocking laughter silenced by the force of Sonata's anger. For the first time, she felt the sting of her own actions, the realisation of the bitterness and resentment that had consumed her and Aria over the years.

Sonata's voice trembled with conviction as she continued, her words cutting through the air like a knife. "All you have, Adagio, is strutting around on stage, pretending you're important," she declared, her tone laced with disdain. "But if you want to entertain adoring fans, you're going to need love instead of hate."

She paused for a moment, her gaze unwavering as she locked eyes with Adagio and Aria, the intensity of her words hanging heavy in the air.

"I'll sing and dance with you," Sonata continued, her voice softer now but gaining strength with each word. "But I like being a waitress in a taco restaurant, making people happy. I love hanging out with my friend. If you want to make the world an ugly place when it gets you nothing, that's your choice. But I refuse to wallow in it with you."

As Sonata's gaze softened, her anger dissipating like a fleeting storm, she turned to look at Fluttershy, her expression filled with a mixture of sadness and newfound resolve. "I'm glad the curse was broken," she admitted, her voice tinged with a sense of liberation. "Maybe the sea kelpies' time has passed, but now that I'm going to die, I'll make sure to live as fully as I can."

Her words hung in the air, a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the preciousness of every moment. Fluttershy met her gaze with understanding and compassion, her heart going out to her friend in this moment of vulnerability.

Meanwhile, Adagio's eyes remained fixed on the ground, unable to meet Sonata's gaze. In a rare moment of introspection, she muttered under her breath, "Maybe you're not as stupid as you look."

Though her words were spoken with a hint of bitterness, there was a begrudging acknowledgment in them, a recognition of Sonata's newfound strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Breathing heavily, Sonata paused to collect herself, her chest rising and falling with each breath. With a determined resolve, she reached out to take Aria's hand, a silent gesture of solidarity and reconciliation. Leading her former companion to kneel beside Adagio, Sonata's gaze met theirs, her eyes shining with tears.

In a hushed whisper, she uttered the words that hung heavy in the air. "Apology accepted. But you owe me an ice cream."

Adagio's scowl deepened, her pride warring with the flicker of gratitude that crossed her features. For a moment, it seemed as though she might lash out in defiance, but then, with a resigned sigh, she relented. Her mouth forming the words "thank you," she offered a silent acknowledgment of Sonata's forgiveness, a fragile truce settling over them in the aftermath of their argument.

As they knelt together on the sandy shore, the weight of their shared history hung heavy in the air, but amidst the tension and uncertainty, there was a glimmer of hope. In this moment of vulnerability and healing, Adagio, Aria, and Sonata were perched on the edge of redemption, their bonds of kinship tested but ultimately unbroken. As the waves crashed against the shore and the sun crept towards the horizon, the girls observed in quiet fascination as the tension between the Dazzlings gradually dissipated, replaced by the realisation that they were no longer bound by the burdens of the past.

As the scene unfolded, Rainbow Dash slipped her arm around Fluttershy's waist, drawing her close as they watched the interaction. "You know," she murmured to Fluttershy, her voice tinged with a hint of awe, "it's been a surprisingly epic day."

Fluttershy smiled up at Rainbow, her heart swelling with affection for her loyal friend. "It really has," she agreed, her gaze drifting back to the Dazzlings. She caught Sonata's gaze and gave a warm smile, communicating her pride in the former siren’s growth.

The tranquillity of the moment was shattered as Rainbow Dash spotted a misguided frisbee arcing towards the girls.  The colourful girl reacted swiftly, her keen eyes tracking the discs path as it careened towards their midst. With a graceful movement, she sprang forward out to intercept it, her slender blue fingers closing around the spinning object with practised ease.

Fluttershy, startled by Rainbow Dash's sudden movement, was knocked sprawling into the sand, her heart racing as she watched her friend's lightning-fast reflexes in action. 

"Nice catch, Rainbow!" Applejack exclaimed, impressed by the athletic display.

Rainbow Dash grinned, the rush of adrenaline still coursing through her veins as she tossed the frisbee back to its owners in a trick, curving path. "Thanks!" she replied, her voice tinged with excitement. "Just call me the frisbee ninja."

Fluttershy chuckled, her nerves settling as she picked herself up. "You never cease to amaze me," she remarked, her gaze warm with admiration.

Rainbow flashed her a playful grin, the thrill of the moment still evident in her eyes. "Hey, what can I say? It's all part of being awesome," she quipped, earning a round of laughter from their friends.

Feeling the gritty texture of sand clinging to her skin, Fluttershy glanced down to find her arms and legs dusted with fine grains, remnants of Rainbow Dash's swift movement. With a small smile, she rose from her spot and moved into a clear space away from the others, the golden sand warm beneath her feet.

Taking a moment to shake off the loose sand from her arms, Fluttershy brushed her fingertips along her skin, sweeping away the remaining grains. Satisfied with her efforts, she patted the sand from her behind then bent down to address her legs, the gentle motion of her hands displacing the stubborn particles clinging to her skin.

As she worked, a passerby's attention was drawn away from where they were walking, to the sight of a pink haired girl, face down and booty up. Entranced by Fluttershy's tattooed posterior, the onlooker found himself unable to tear his gaze away whilst stumbling forward, their focus entirely consumed by the captivating sight. In this oblivious state, they failed to notice an unsuspecting sunbather lounging in their path. With an ill-fated step, he collided squarely with the unsuspecting beachgoer, sending both tumbling to the sand in a tangle of limbs.

With an edge of exasperation in her voice, she couldn't help but voice her frustration. "Seriously! Are you just going to look at my butt and forget to watch where you're going?" Fluttershy's outburst drew attention from nearby beachgoers. Marching over, hands planted firmly on her hips, she levelled a stern gaze at the offender. "Staring isn't nice." The firmness in her tone left no room for argument as she stood her ground.

Her words, delivered with such uncharacteristic firmness, elicited a chorus of laughter from her friends, who couldn't help but find the absurdity of the situation utterly delightful. "Excuse me," she began, her voice tinged with annoyance mixed with a hint of the normal shyness as she rejoined the others, "but it's not like no one's ever seen a butt with tattoos on before."

As the tension from Fluttershy's confrontation with the beachgoer dissipated, Sonata chimed in with a lighthearted comment, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. "You know, they were kinda cute," she remarked, her tone playful. "If they were into tattoos, they'd probably go nuts if they saw your piercings!" Her words were accompanied by an innocent smile, oblivious to the horrified look on Fluttershy's face and the suddenly shocked expressions of her friends.